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Angel Di Maria reckons he could play for Barcelona despite his history with their La Liga rivals Real Madrid.

The former Manchester United star spent four seasons at the Santiago Bernabeu, winning a LaLiga crown and Champions League title among numerous other trophies.

He moved to Old Trafford for a season before joining current side Paris Saint-Germain in 2015.

And despite his history at Madrid, Di Maria, 29, said he would play for Barca if the opportunity presented itself.

“My relationship with Madrid is finished because my cycle there ended,” he told So Foot.

“Frankly, I wouldn’t have a problem to play at Barca, to the contrary.

“The only club I couldn’t play for is Newell’s Old Boys because I am a fan of Rosario Central.”

Di Maria and PSG face Madrid in the Champions League on Wednesday in a first leg Round of 16 clash at the Santiago Bernabeu in Madrid.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/di-maria-real-madrid-past-cannot-stop-playing-barcelona/

2018 is running by fast and so is the sporting calendar. It is no more news that the Nigerian Super Eagles of Nigeria will feature at the FIFA World Cup in Russia come 14th of June.

That’s exciting news to lots of sports loving Nigerians, however this is not the only sporting attraction to feature Nigerian’s this year. 2018 is packed with sporting events that will keep sports lovers entertained all year long. Complete Sports Nigeria (CSN) has made a pick of the Top Eight sporting events of the year.

1. African Wrestling Championships

Nigeria will be hosting the continent to the first ever wrestling tournament billed to take place in Port Harcourt, Rivers State from 7th – 11th.

The African Wrestling Championship will have in attendance African wrestlers as well as International Wrestlers. This will be a historic event and the biggest ever wrestling event to ever be hosted on Nigeria soil.

2. Winter Olympics

For the first time in History Nigeria’s flag will be hoisted at the winter Olympics bobsled event taking place in Pyeongchang County, South Korea.

This is a path never trailed by anyone in the Nation, the trio Seun Adigun, Ngozi Onwumere and Akuoma Omeoga will be making history at the XXIII Olympic Winter Games known as Pyeongchang 2018 billed to take place from February 9th to 25th. This is a first for Nigeria and the build up to the event has been impressive, let’s throw our weight behind the ladies.

3. Lagos City Marathon

The competition which is in its third year has continued to surpass expectations, The Lagos state governor Akinwunmi Ambode has promised to upgrade the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon to an IAAF Gold Label.

The event which is one of the most anticipated running event in Nigeria, is expected to have more than 100,000 participants this year with the introduction of the 10km Family race. Lagos City Marathon ranks high in terms of Prizes, the race is scheduled to hold February 10.

4. Commonwealth Games

Commonwealth Games is not new to Nigerians like the winter Olympics, the games features former colonies of Great Britain. This year’s edition is scheduled to take place in Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia from 4th to 5th of April.

Nigeria will be looking to improve her medal haul from the last edition held in Glasgow, Scotland carting away a total of 11 Gold, 11 Silver and 14 Bronze medals.

5. UEFA Champions League final

This is undoubtedly the most watched sporting event in Nigeria after the Super Eagles, the followership it commands is premium and Nigerian’s are known to watch their favourite football clubs perform on the big stage.

This year we have some Nigerians featuring; Victor Moses, Chelsea, and Henry Onyekuru of Anderlecht on loan from Everton.

It promises to be a spectacular one as Real Madrid take on PSG and Barcelona take on old rivals Chelsea for a spot in the Semi-Final. The final will hold on May 26 at the NSC Olimpiyskiy Stadium in Kiev, Uknraine.

6. Russia 2018 World Cup

All roads leads to Russia as she plays host to the world’s biggest sporting spectacle of the year. The Nigerian Super Eagles who qualified top of the log in their group will feature alongside Croatia, Iceland and perennial foes Argentina in Group D.

Nigeria has qualified for the mundial for the sixth time and she hopes to reach the Quarter Final for the first in the team’s history. We have the opportunity to see the likes of Iwobi, Messi, Ronaldo, Neymar, Kane take centre stage as they vie for the topmost prize in world football. The tournament is billed to kick off on June 14 through July 15.

7. Senior Africa Athletics Championships

The 21st edition of the Confederation of African Athletics (CAA) Senior Championships tagged ‘Asaba 2018’ is scheduled to hold from August 1st to 5th in Delta State, Nigeria.

The first time the event was staged in Nigeria was in Lagos in 1989. The Governor of the State Ifeanyi Okowa, as well as LOC Chairman, Solomon Ogba, have both encouraged Nigerians to come en-masse to experience the games giving their assurance that it will be a World class spectacle in the most conducive environment.

The who is who athletes of African track and field will be present at the games which is held to select the continent’s contingent to the International Cup in athletics later on this year.

8. U-20 Women’s World Cup

Nigeria will make her Ninth appearance in the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup after the Falconets demolished South Africa’s Basetsana 8-0 on aggregate.

The Nigerian female side have been a dominant force in African football, and the falconets have been impressive as well. We are backing them to make good of the opportunity to finally win the tournament after narrowly missing out on the trophy on two occasions. The tournament will be held in France from August 5 – 24.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/2018-eight-top-sporting-events-nigeria/

Nigeria forward Sone Aluko has expressed optimism that Reading will turn their season around despite their struggles.

Reading have picked up one win from their last 12 English Championship matches to leave them just four points above the relegation zone. They are 18th on 32 points in the 24-team league table.

Last weekend’s 2-1 defeat at Middlesbrough was their fourth loss in five games which has led to the club fans turning on their manager Jaap Stam.
But winger Aluko is certain results will soon improve.

“It’s not going our way at the minute, but I’m a big believer in making your own luck and we have to keep believing,” Aluko, who was Stam’s biggest signing last summer when he joined from Fulham, told Reading Chronicle.

“It’s easy to lose confidence when you’re losing games and you start second guessing yourselves.
“But we haven’t become bad players overnight, so we believe it will turn with hard work.”

The former Hull City star admits they have to find solutions to their problems rather dwell on them.

He added: “We’ll be working hard. We have to stick together, keep fighting and address the problems we’re encountering in games at the moment.

“We are where we are. It’s the reality, and we’ve got to deal with it.

“It’s about what’s going on between your ears as much as what is happening with the ball at your feet.

“As players, you’ve got to keep believing. And if we do, I’m confident we will turn it around.”

Reading are without a fixture this weekend due to Sheffield United’s FA Cup involvement.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/aluko-backs-struggling-reading-turn-season-around/

English Championship club Leeds United will revive a £3.5m bid for Nigerian striker Jerry Mbakogu at the end of the season, according to the Daily Mail.

Mbakogu who plays in the Italian second division for Carpi was close to a move to the English second-tier club in January but the deal fell through.

Carpi pulled out of the negotiations as they were not willing to lose their striker who has scored six goals in 19 Serie B appearances this season.

Mbakogu has been influential to Carpi’s promotional play-off chase this season.

Carpi are ninth in the Serie B table with 36 points from 24 games.

According to the report in the Daily Mail, the 25-year-old Nigerian has applied for a dual Italian passport to help smooth a deal for Leeds in the summer rather than wait on a work permit.

Mbakogu is yet to feature for the Super Eagles.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/leeds-set-make-3-5m-bid-nigerian-striker-mbakogu/

Super Eagles coach Gernot Rohr has arrived in Germany to monitor players ahead of the international friendly matches against Serbia and Poland, [url]Completesportsnigeria.com[/url] reports.

The former OG Nice of France manager who qualified Nigeria for the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, has also been to France to speak with some of the players he intends to bring to the national team, since he left Morocco where Nigeria participated in the 2018 CAF African Nations Championship.

According to the Super Eagles Media Officer, Toyin Ibitoye, Rohr is determined to present a strong team at the 2018 World Cup and he has been scouting round Europe to get the best players that will help him actualise his dream of excellent performances in Russia.

“Rohr is in Germany now monitoring players that could make his team for the upcoming international friendly matches that will help him get the best for the World Cup”, Ibitoye told Completesportsnigeria.com

“He is determined to present a quality team in Russia and he has started monitoring the players he wants to give the opportunities to prove what they can do for Nigeria.”

Leon Balogun and Anthony Ujah, both of Mainz, and Wolfsburg’s Victor Osimhen are some of the Nigerian players currently playing in the German Bundesliga.

Meanwhile, Completesportsnigeria.com has been informed that the list of players that will play both Serbia and Poland international friendly matches will be out in early March.

“The list will be out soon but I’m sure around early March and that is why he is trying to move round now to see the players he is going to invite,” CSN was informed.

Nigeria, who will face Iceland, Argentina and Croatia in the first round of the FIFA World Cup in Russia, will play friendly matches with Poland in Warsaw on March 23 and Serbia in London on March 27.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/rohr-hits-germany-monitor-eagles-stars-set-name-squad-serbia-poland-friendlies/

D’Tigers coach Alex Nwora is confident that Nigeria will qualify for the 2019 FIBA World Cup in China despite missing some of their key players for the qualifiers, [url]Completesportsnigeria.com[/url] reports.

Nigeria have been drawn alongside hosts Mali, Uganda and Rwanda for the FIBA qualifiers which will take place from 23 February to 25 February, 2018.

Nwora admitted that the Nigerian Basketball Federation (NBBF) could not get some of the players for the qualifiers due to the new qualification format.

“It was tough to getting key players with leagues across the world already in full swing,”Nwora told the media department of the NBBF.

“Active players in their respective clubs who are available have been invited to represent Nigeria. We have a very formidable team that I believe will sail through during the qualifiers.”

Nwora recalled two players from the victorious 2015 AfroBasket Championship squad and five from the squad that won silver in Tunisia in 2017 to his preliminary squad for the qualifiers.

The 2019 FIBA World Cup will tip off on 31 August and end on 15 September in China.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/dtigers-coach-nwora-sure-fiba-world-cup-ticket/

Nigeria’s Russia 2018 World Cup group opponents Croatia have picked Liverpool’s home ground Anfield as venue for their international friendly fixture against five-time world champions Brazil scheduled for June 3rd, reports [url]Completesportsnigeria.com[/url].

Officials of the Croatia Football Federation and their Brazilian counterparts agreed on the date for the friendly towards the end of last year with Stamford Bridge, home of English Premier League champions Chelsea, and Anfield proposed as venue for the game.

According to a report in Croatian online news hub, Sportske. jutarnji.hr, the two federations have now agreed for the game to be held in Anfield.

The Croats who have a South American team, Argentina in their group will use the game to test strategy ahead of their game against the Albiceleste who they will face in their second group game at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.

Croatia will face the Super Eagles of Nigeria in their opening fixture at the global fiesta on June 16 at the Kaliningrad Stadium.
The 2018 FIFA World Cup will run from June 14 to July 15 in Russia.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/nigeria-foes-croatia-choose-anfield-world-cup-friendly-vs-brazil/

As the Champions League Round of 16 clash between Barcelona and Chelsea draws near, former player Alexis Sanchez has recalled how Barca superstar Lionel Messi couldn’t hold back the tears after they lost a semi-final tie to Chelsea in 2012.

Messi missed a penalty as the Catalans surrendered a 2-0 lead to draw 2-2 with the Premier League side – who were playing with 10 men after John Terry’s sending off – which saw them lose the tie 3-2 on aggregate.

Sanchez, who started that game for Barca, has revealed how hurt his former team-mate was in the wake of the defeat and feels it shows the demands players place on themselves at the highest level of the game.

The Manchester United forward, who earns a reported £350,000-a-week at Old Trafford, also believes players can be unfairly criticised based on the money they earn.

“I think football saves many people,” Sanchez told Sky Sports. “It can give you a life of luxury, but people don’t see all the effort that goes in behind the scenes.

“That might mean not seeing your family, or missing your mother’s birthday, many players are so focused that they miss the birth of their children.

“You might cry during a game if you lose a final. That’s all part of football. In the Barcelona dressing room after the Chelsea game, I saw Leo cry. That’s because players demand so much from themselves. People don’t see that.

“Sometimes people say things such as, ‘He’s got too big for his boots’ or say, ‘He’s changed’. You buy a flash car and people say that you’re a show-off.

“I’ve learnt so much over time and with the experience that I’ve gained. You can’t please everyone. There’ll always be one or two who get angry. I’ve learnt so much from playing football: I love football and that’s what I do. I enjoy myself and I’m just trying to be happy.”

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/champions-league-messi-cried-chelsea-beat-barcelona-2012-sanchez/

Nigeria forward Alex Iwobi has urged Arsenal fans to keep faith with the team despite their 1-0 defeat to North London rivals Tottenham Hotspur in Saturdays Premier League clash.

Spurs deservedly secured all three points thanks to league top scorer Harry Kane whose 49th minute header was the difference between both teams.

The win took Spurs to fourth place, seven points clear of Arsenal on 52 points in the league table.

Iwobi, who was brought on in the second half of the game, told the club’s fans via his Instagram account that the team will be working hard to get back to winning ways starting with Thursday’s Europa League round 32 clash away to Swedish club Oestersunds.

Iwobi said: “Being an Arsenal fan myself, Saturday’s defeat was very disappointing and hard to take.

“I know it’s hard to believe but we know exactly how you are feeling.

“We have another match in a few days and trust me we’ll be putting in 100% to try and make this right.

“Massive love to all our fans for your support. #BIG17.”

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/iwobi-arsenal-fans-know-feel-spurs-defeat/

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho has admitted that his side were destined to lose 1-0 in Sunday’s English Premier League game against Newcastle United at St James Park.

Matt Ritchie scored the only goal in the 65th minute to condemn United to their fifth league defeat of the season while the win moved Newcastle to 13th in the English Premier League table.

Mourinho also praised the resolute defending of the Magpies during the clash.

“They fought like animals – I hope they take that as a compliment. The gods of football were on their side,” Mourinho said during post-match interview.

“It wasn’t going to happen for us today. Newcastle gave what they have and what they don’t have, that’s a beautiful thing in football.

“They fought for their point, a point is what they had in mind. We made a defensive mistake and when they were in front they had only one thing in mind and gave their lives to keep a clean sheet.

“My verdict is that we could’ve been here for 10 hours and not scored a goal. Newcastle played with their lives and defended with their lives.

“They got from us a defensive mistake and from a lateral free-kick they scored. The gods of football were clearly in their side. They must have an amazing feeling after giving absolutely everything.”

Mourinho also rued his side’s missed chances from the game and the foul Chris Smalling conceded that led to the goal.

“Score a goal. We had some [chances] with the score at 0-0. Alexis [Sanchez] had an open goal and then the countless opportunities of the last 20-25 minutes. The double [miss] of Martial is incredible in the last minute,” Mourinho added.

“A defender has to concede free-kicks now and again. It was an intuitive thing. Players [who do it] in the box deserve a card more than [Chris] Smalling in that situation. Clearly I know we lost the duel in the air and it’s difficult to accept that.”

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/mourinho-gods-soccer-newcastles-side-man-united/

With the 2018 World Cup four months away, Completesportsnigeria.com’s JOHNNY EDWARD presents how Nigeria’s Super Eagles Group D opponents are preparing for the tournament…

argentina

Argentina

World Cup Base Camp

Argentina will use the Bronnitsy training centre as their base camp in Russia. The camp is located some 40km from Moscow and the Bronnitsy training centre is less than one hour, 30 minutes by flight to the three venues Argentina will play their Group D games.

The Argentines will fly for less than an hour when they open their campaign against Iceland on June 16 at the Otkrytiye Arena, the home ground of Spartak Moscow in Moscow.

They will fly for exactly 50 minutes when they play their second game against Croatia on June 21 at the Nizhny Novgorod Stadium in Nizhny Novgorod while against Nigeria, Lionel Messi and company will fly for one hour and 20 minutes to St.Petersburg where they will play against the Super Eagles. The match will take place at the Krestovsky Stadium in Saint Petersburg on June 26, 2018.

World Cup friendlies

Two-time world champions Argentina have lined up four friendlies ahead of their 2018 World Cup campaign in Russia. The La Albiceleste who last won the World Cup in 1986 will play Switzerland in Basel on the 23rd of March before taking on Spain on March 27th at a venue yet to be finalised.

Argentina will play two other friendlies before they take on Iceland in their World Cup opener on June 16.

According to a report on the official website of Argentine Football Association, the Albiceleste have an offer to play Bolivia or Ecuador (though details of the game have not been finalised) in a farewell game at Boca’s La Bombonera Stadium on May 30 before departing to Barcelona on June 1 for a one-week training camp at the Joan Gamper Sports City on the outskirts of the city.

A final friendly game has been scheduled for Argentina on June 8 with Israel a likely opponent before their trip to Russia. Argentine, who booked a ticket to this summer’s tournament by winning their final qualifier 3-1 at Ecuador in October thanks to a Lionel Messi hat-trick, will take on Iceland, Croatia, and Nigeria in the group stages.

WORLD CUP FIXTURES

Argentina vs Iceland Spartak Stadium, Moscow Saturday 16 June

Argentina vs Croatia Nizhny Novgorod Stadium, Thursday 21 June

Nigeria vs Argentina Saint Petersburg Stadium Tuesday 26 June

CROATIA

World Cup Base Camp

The Croatian team will use the Woodland Rhapsody Resort at Illichevo, in Russia. The camp is located approximately 60 kilometres from St. Petersburg. The Woodland Rhapsody is located in a peaceful resort between a forest and a lake which presents an excellent environment for the national team.

The Vatreni as the Croatian senior national team are called will hold their practice sessions at the newly completed and attractive small stadium at Roshchino, which is a 15-minute drive from the resort.

The Roshchino training centre has a capacity of 500 spectators and it was built for the World Cup. During the World Cup, this centre will also host the press centre for the media representatives.

Croatia World Cup friendlies

The Croatian Football Federation have confirmed two of the four friendly matches lined up for the Vatreni ahead of the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.

According to a report on the CFF website, the Croatia will play Peru on March 23rd at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, United States of America and four days later take on Mexico at AT&T Stadium in Dallas.

Also, a game against five-time world champions Brazil has been lined up for Croatia in May but a date and match venue are yet to be agreed upon with Chelsea’s home ground, Stamford Bridge, and Liverpool’s Anfield in the running to host the match.

Croatia are also keen on squaring up against an African team that play similar style with Nigeria in the first week of June. The Vatreni will start their World Cup campaign against the Super Eagles at the Kaliningrad Stadium, Kaliningrad on June 16.

WORLD CUP FIXTURES

Croatia vs Nigeria Kaliningrad Stadium,Kaliningrad Saturday 16 June

Argentina vs Croatia Nizhny Novgorod Stadium, Thursday 21 June

Iceland vs Croatia Rostov Arena,Rostov-On-Don Tuesday 26 June

fifa-world cup-super eagles-2018argentina-croatia-iceland-world cup-rohr-super eagles-argentina-nigeria-completesportsnigeria.com

ICELAND

World Cup Base Camp

The Iceland team are yet to settle for a camp site in Russia with the official website of Iceland stating that the team will either be camped in Moscow or the Nizhny Novgorod Region.

World Cup friendlies

Iceland started off their preparation towards Russia 2018 World Cup on the wrong foot, losing 2-1 to the Czech Republic in in Doha, in November 2017. Goals from Tomas Soucek and Jan Sykora gave Czech Republic a 2-0 lead before Kjartan Finnbogason scored a late consolation for Heimir Hallgrimsson’s side.

At the start of the year, Iceland returned to winning ways, recording back-to-back wins against an Indonesia selected side 6-0 and the Indonesian national team 4-1 in their second international friendly game in 2018.

Iceland topped Group I of their UEFA qualifying campaign that included Croatia, Ukraine, Turkey, Finland, and Kosovo, losing just twice in the 10 matches – scoring 16 goals and conceding seven. They will take on Mexico on the 23rd of March and three days later face Peru in friendly games.

Iceland are drawn in Group D alongside Super Eagles of Nigeria, Argentina and Croatia in this year’s FIFA World Cup in Russia. They will face the Eagles in their second group game on June 22 in Volgograd.

WORLD CUP FIXTURES

Argentina vs Iceland Spartak Stadium, Moscow Saturday 16 June

Nigeria vs Iceland Volgograd Arena, Volgograd Friday 22 JUN

Iceland vs Croatia Rostov Arena, Rostov-On-Don Tuesday 26 June

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/road-russia-argentina-croatia-iceland-preparing-super-eagles/

For the first time in History Nigeria’s flag will be hoisted at the winter Olympics bobsled event taking place in Pyeongchang County, South Korea.

This is a path never trailed by anyone in their Nation, the trio Seun Adigun, Ngozi Onwumere and Akuoma Omeoga will be making history at the XXIII Olympic Winter Games known as Pyeongchang 2018 billed to take place from February 9th to 25th.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/historic-nigeria-bobsled-ladies-pt-2/
Watch:https://youtu.be/cbt4NjvrgyQ

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho has confirmed that Zlatan Ibrahimovic has returned to training but remains a doubt to feature in the Premier League fixture against Newcastle United on Sunday.

Mourinho whose side are 13 points adrift of leaders Manchester City in the Premier League also ruled out Eric Bailly from his squad for the game.

The former Chelsea manager also insisted he has no problem with Paul Pogba after the French midfielder was dropped from the starting line-up for United’s 2-0 win over Huddersfield.

“Paul had a very professional behaviour,” said Mourinho during his pre-match conference on Friday ahead of the clash at Newcastle.

“The week was not different to what Paul is every week. He works well, he’s a good professional He likes to train. I’ve never had a single problem with him. He likes to train.

“I had a few laughs over the past week because I heard and watched, read a few things, and I’m not English but I think I understand English enough when you want to say box to box.

“But with some comments from some important people in football, I got a little confused. For me box to box means box to box. You have to be good in this box and have to be good in that box.

“It means you have to defend well in this box, the physical condition and desire and stamina to go until the other box. In the other box you have to be good at scoring, creating, heading and so on.

“For me Paul is a midfield player. He’s not a left back, he’s not a striker. When people ask his best position: he’s a midfield player. It depends on the tactical system but he will always be a midfielder.

“Then with so many opinions, and we are in a world of opinions, people can get confused. There is no confusion between me and Paul. It’s difficult to play a midfielder with more potential than Paul.”

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/mourinho-opens-zlatan-bailly-return-pogbas-best-position/

Nigeria’s Blessing Oborodudu is confident of claiming an eighth successive continental gold medal at the 2018 African Wrestling Championships in Port Harcourt.

The seven-time African wrestling champion will have to do so in a new weight category, 68 kg. She formerly competed in the 63 kg class.

Nonetheless, she told Nigeria Wrestling Federation Media that she is ready to defend her African crown in her new weight category, adding that preparation for the African Championships has been going on well.

“The preparation for the African Championship has been good, we have been in camp for about three weeks,” the Bayelsa-born freestyle wrestler said. “So I’m ready to go.

“This will be my eighth time of winning the African Championship, and this 2018 is in a different class (68kg). It is no more 63 kg again.

“I’m equally preparing for them (the wrestlers in that weight class); I know most of them there. I think I’m good to go.

“By the special grace of God, I have the full confidence that I will win the gold medal.”

The 2018 African Wrestling Championships takes place in Port Harcourt from 7th to 11th February at the Alfred Diete-Spiff Civic Centre. It is the first time Nigeria will be hosting the competition.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/oborodudu-targets-8th-straight-gold-african-wresting-championship/

There is much debate as to which nation is the favourite to lift the World Cup after after the Final on July 15th in Moscow. Germany, Brazil, France, Spain and a number of other nations have all shown the credentials to be regarded as worthy winners, but there is no candidate currently looking like breaking away from the pack.

Bookmakers, too, look a little stumped on who the most likely winner will be, finding it difficult to separate the odds between favourites Germany and Brazil in the World Cup betting 2018. Indeed, many pundits don’t think those two most-decorated footballing nations should be favourites at all, feeling that France or, perhaps, Spain should be regarded as frontrunners.

Realated: World Cup Draw: Brazil Fans Predict Sixth Title For Samba Boys

France may have their best chance for twenty years

France, currently available at odds of 11/2 (Paddy Power), are arguably the most intriguing contenders for Russia 2018. Didier Deschamps has such a ridiculously deep pool of players to choose from that a coach could almost build two World Cup-winning squads. As an example, most coaches take around seven or eight attack-minded players to the Finals, meaning that the likes of Anthony Martial, Dimitri Payet, Kevin Gameiro or even Bayern Munich’s Kingsley Coman could be left at home.

While having the talent at their disposal, France’s fluency and cohesiveness could be their ultimate downfall. Brazil (5/1) have no such issues, with current coach Tite instilling new sense of verve and confidence in a team that seemed on its knees after the 2014 World Cup Semi-Final humiliation to Germany. Neymar is, of course, still the star man, but this Brazil side is now less about individuals and more about achieving victory.

German winning-machine rolls on to Russia

It almost goes without saying that 2014 winners Germany (9/2) will be widely backed to go deep in the tournament. Like Brazil, they have established a winning mentality, best summed up by their 100% record in UEFA qualifying. Experienced players are complemented by rising stars like Leroy Sané, Timo Werner and Julian Weigl, so there is a nice balance about this German team. However, defensive frailties might give bettors pause before backing them to win the World Cup.

It seems that Spain (6/1) have gone slightly under the radar since the disappointment of the last World Cup. However, the way they navigated a qualifying group, which included Italy, demonstrated that they could be back to their best. Like France, the depth of their squad almost seems unfair to other nations. But, the onus is upon coach Julen Lopetegui to find a settled XI.

Lack of expectation may suit England

What of the outside bets for World Cup glory? The lack of expectation in the UK media may actually suit England (16/1), who boast a potent forward line with Harry Kane, Dele Alli and Raheem Sterling. Nigeria’s Group D rivals, Argentina (8/1) and, to a slightly-lesser extent, Croatia (40/1), are both fancied to do well. The former, of course, will have Lionel Messi in their ranks. Many neutrals will want the ‘little-man’ to finally lift the trophy his talent so richly deserves.

The odds are in triple-figures across the board for African sides, with Senegal (125/1) and Nigeria (150/1) leading the way. Egypt (275/1), Morocco (325/1) and Tunisia (500/1) are ranked among the outsiders for the tournament. The time may not yet be ripe for an African team to win the World Cup, but certainly the Super Eagles and Lions of Teranga will hope to upset the odds and progress to the knockout stages at least.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/little-to-choose-between-top-nations-at-russia/

Watch:https://youtu.be/ZCcnQiuyUlQ

Chelsea’s recent poor run continued as they were thrashed 4-1 by Watford at Vicarage Road in the Premier League in Monday night.

It was their second defeat in their last two league games following their surprise 3-0 home loss to Bournemouth.

A Troy Deeney penalty and goals from Daryl Janmaat, Roberto Pereyra and Gerard Deulofeu secured the convincing win for Watford.

Tiemoue Bakayoko was sent off after receiving his second yellow card for a foul on Richarlison.

Super Eagles forward, Victor Moses, played 90 minutes for Chelsea but could not prevent the hammering.

Former Arsenal striker Olivier Giroud made his debut for Chelsea after replacing Pedro Rodriguez who went off injured.

Chelsea are fourth on 50 points while Watford are 11th on 30 points in the league table.

Willian had Chelsea’s first big chance in the 12th minute but hit effort just over the bar after Moses’ cross rebounded off a Watford defender.

Watford almost made Chelsea pay for a careless play in defence but Richarlison’s goal bound shot was well blocked by Gary Cahill.

In the 26th minute, a corner from Gerard Deulofeu was almost turned into his own net by Tiemoue Bakayoko.

Chelsea were reduced to 10 men as Bakayoko was sent off after receiving his second yellow card for a late foul on Richarlison.

Watford went close to making their one man advantage count as Richarlison tested Thibaut Courtois from range but the Chelsea keeper made a comfortable save.

In the 42nd minute, Watford went 1-0 up through Deeney who converted from the penalty spot after Courtois fouled Deulofeu.

On the stroke of halftime, Etiene Capoue hit a low shot close to the Chelsea area but Cesar Azpilicuerta blocked his effort away for a corner.

Deep into added time, Chelsea had a chance to draw level only for Pedro Rodriguez blazing his shot over the bar.

The game was halted for a few minutes due to head collision between Moses and Marvin Zeegelaar.

Deulofeu should have doubled Watford lead on 59 minutes but saw his curler go inches wide.

A minute later Richarlison also had a chance following a poor pass by Courtois but the Brazilian’s low shot just missed the target.

In the 66th minute, Courtois made a superb save as he dived full stretch to punch away Abdoulaye Doucoure’s left-footed strike.

Courtois made another good save in the 77th minute as he held Jose Holebas’ long range strike.

With 10 minutes remaining Chelsea had a chance to equalise only for Orestiz Karnezis.

In the 82nd minute Chelsea equalised thanks to Hazard who curled in a brilliant strike into the bottom left corner to make it 1-1.

Watford took the lead again on 84 minutes through Janmaat who danced into the box made a quick interchange of pass with Deulofeu before placing the ball past Courtois.

Things went from bad to worse for Chelsea on 88 minutes as Deulofeu ran towards goal, before slotting into the back of the net with his left-foot.

And in the 91st minute, Pereyra completed the rout as he ran on to Dacoure’s pass before slamming his shot into the net.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/86051-2/

Nigeria defender Osas Okoro has apologised to Nigerian fans following the home-based Super Eagles’ 4-0 thrashing at the hands hosts Morocco in the final of this year’s Africa Nations Championship (CHAN) in Casablanca on Sunday.

A 10-man Home Eagles team were thoroughly trounced by Morocco with goals coming from Zakaria Hadraf (brace) Walid El Karti and Ayoub El Kaabi.Peter Eneji was sent off for the Home Eagles in the 48th minute after receiving his second yellow card of of the final.

Reacting to the defeat, Okoro stated that they have taken positives from the tournament.

He also expressed gratitude to Nigerians for their support for the team.

“We really wanted to win for every Nigerian out there but we are sorry about the end result. A lot to learn from this and we thank you for your endless support, ” Okoro wrote on his Twitter handle on Monday.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/okoro-apologises-to-nigerians-for-home-eagles-chan-final-defeat-to-morocco/

[url]Completesportsnigeria.com[/url]’s ADEBOYE AMOSU runs the rule over the performance of the Home Eagles in their African Nations Championship final defeat against Morocco…

DELE AJIBOYE 7/10
Conceded four times in the game but still posted an impressive showing. He was let down by his defence for all the goals.

OSAS OKORO 4/10
Failed to live up to his previous heights in the competition as he was badly exposed by the Moroccans.

STEPHEN EZE 4/10
Eze was not at his best in the game and was giv a run around by the Moroccans. It was no doubt his worst showing of the competition.

KALU ORJI 5\10
The stand-in skipper tried in vain to put the defence together especially after Moses Eneji’s dismissal without success. He made a couple of vital blocks but it was not enough to prevent his side from losing.

IKOUWEN UDOH 6/10
A slightly above average performance from the young defender who was Nigeria’s best defender in the game. Played a number of defence splitting passes and defended well too.

EMEKA ATULOMA 4/10
Returned to the starting line-up after missing the semi-final win against Sudan due to injury. The Rivers United player started the game well but fizzled out like most of his teammates and was forced off in the second half due to injury.

RABIU ALI 4/10
A below-par showing which summed up his performance in the competition. He was replaced in the 57th minute by Augustine Oladapo.

DAYO OJO 4/10
Toiled hard to impress in the game with no success. He was outnumbered in midfield by the Moroccans.

EMEKA OGBUBH 4/10
Another player who returned to the starting line-up after missing out against Sudan due to injury. He probably did not shake off the injury enough as never really get into gear in the game.

MOSES ENEJI 4/10
Looked lively in what was his first start of the competition but was dismissed early in the second half for a rash challenge.

GABRIEL OKECHUKWU 5/10
He was completely isolated upfront and did not get the kind of service he would have required.

SUBSTITUTES

ANTHONY OKPOTU 3/10
Came in for Emeka Ogbuh early in the second half and didn’t do anything positive to turn the game around.

AUGUSTINE OLADAPO 4/10
He was surprisingly left on the bench after impressing in the semi-final against Sudan. He could do nothing to change the fortune of his team after his introduction for Rabiu Ali in the 56th minute.

MUSTAPHA IBRAHIM 2/10
Another substitute who did nothing to affect the game.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/not-good-enough-home-eagles-rated-vs-morocco/

Former Nigeria international, Mutiu Adepoju, has expressed his disappointment following the home-based Super Eagles’ 4-0 thrashing against hosts Morocco in the final of the 2018 Africa Nations Championship (CHAN) on Sunday in Casablanca, [url]Completesportsnigeria.com[/url] (CSN) reports.

Morocco claimed their first senior title since winning the Africa Cup of Nations way back in 1976 with the comprehensive win against Nigeria.

A brace from Zakaria Hadraf, Walid El Karti and Ayoub El Kaabi, gave the Moroccans the deserved the win.

They became the first country to host and win the CHAN tournament since it began in 2009.

Reflecting on the Eagles’ heavy defeat, Adepoju stated he had expected tight contest.

“I didn’t expect that the Eagles will lose with such margin. I expected the game to be competitive than what we saw. I think the result was not good,” Adepoju told [url]Completesportsnigeria.com[/url].

Adepoju dismissed talks about stage fright for the Eagles’ players, positing that the team had been squeezing out results.

He said: “I don’t think the loss had anything to do with stage fright. Most of the players play in front of large crowds in the NPFL. Rather I will say in most of our matches before the final, yes we’ve been winning, but it had been difficult wins. I knew the game against Morocco will be different because they have a solid team. But like I said, even if we are going to lose, I didn’t expect us to lose this much.”

The 1994 Africa Cup of Nations winner, however picked the duo of Ikouwem Udoh and Okechukwu Gabriel as the home-based Eagles players that impressed him at the tournament.

He added:”I was impressed with the left-full back , Ikouwem Udoh. He did very well but he still has much to do, he needs to gain more experience. He attacks and also defends well and his movement was good.”

“Okechukwu Gabriel did well in the previous two games he played, but unfortunately, I didn’t see those runs behind the defenders against the Moroccans. But he has a lot to learn and improve his game.”

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/adepoju-disappointed-with-home-eagles-chan-2018-final-thrashing-by-morocco/

Last Updated: 12:57 RewardLast to first
4
Morocco 0
Nigeria
12:57
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FT: Morocco 4-0 Nigeria


Ethiopia are the next host of the CHAN in 2020. Hopefully Nigeria will go one better and win in Addis Ababa in two years time

0
12:56
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FT: Morocco 4-0 Nigeria.


It's all over. Morocco are the new champions of CHAN



Nigeria also achieved their best ever performance, bettering the bronze medal from 2014


This is the heaviest defeat in a CHAN final, eclipsing the identical 3-0 victory of Tunisia over Angola in 2011 and DR Congo over Mali in 2016


2
12:51
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90' - Morocco has one last chance to increase the tally. Cornerkick wasted.

0
12:45
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85' - Morocco 4-0 Nigeria

13
12:42
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82' - El Kaabi goes off to great applause. What a wonderful tournament he's had with nine goals.

1
12:37
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77' Captain Banoune cops a yellow card for foul on Ojo.

0
12:37
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75' - Eze cuts off the ball again for a corner kick. Everything is going south for Nigeria now. The fight is practically out of the players.

1
12:33
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74' - Goal!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!



Morocco 4-0 Nigeria



El Kaabi finally gets his goal, rifling home with his left foot for his ninth goal.

0
12:32
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72' - Hadraf goes off to great applause. He's played a massive role in this game.

0
12:32
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70' - Morocco 3-0 Nigeria

0
12:29
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68' - Nigeria brutally exposed and it has nothing to do with the red card. El Kaabi almost getting a fourth one there.



Atuloma is limping, adding more to the team's problems.

0
12:24
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65' - Goal!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!



Morocco 3-0 Nigeria



Another punt down the flank, cut back and another goal. Morocco can finally breath easy. The game is all but over.

0
12:23
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63' - Nigeria one man and two goal down. The Moroccans have stayed true to their gameplan and exploited the Nigerian full backs.

0
12:22
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60' Goal!!!!!!!!

Morocco 2-0 Nigeria



Ajiboye's save was as far as El Karti who gratefully nods into the net.

0
12:19
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59' - Gabriel breaks but punts the ball over the onrushing goalkeeper. He's called for offside. Glimmer of hope that the Nigerian side are not willing to roll over for Morocco.



0
12:17
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57' - Rabiu Ali goes off for Austine Oladapo. Fresh legs in the middle of the park.



0
12:14
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54' Ajiboye saves again, parrying for a corner. Second corner for morocco in quick succession.

1
12:14
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53' Okpotu comes on for Ogbugh as Nigeria try to rescue something from this game.

0
12:13
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52' Badri is booked for a foul on Ogbugh. Nigeria down to 10, its an uphill task against the very mobile Moroccans.



0
12:08
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47' - Trouble for Nigeria. Eneji cops a second yellow card and is off. His competition started 45 minutes ago and it is ending prematurely. The Super Eagles are in trouble.

0
12:07
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46' - Welcome back for the second half. game underway and Morocco are starting the attack where they left off in the first half.

0
11:48
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HT: Morocco 1-0 Nigeria



The goal coming almost at the very end of the half. Nigeria have 45 minutes plus time-added on to reverse this. Morocco have taken one step closer to the trophy.

1
11:46
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45' - Goal!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Morocco 1-0 Nigeria



Tenacity pays off for the hosts, Jibra's intelligent cut-back is fired into the net by Hadraf.

1
11:44
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44' - Eneji is booked for dangerous tackle, the second for Nigeria.



0
11:41
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40' - Morocco 0-0 Nigeria

1
11:37
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34' - Eze has been magnificent in this game, intelligently reading and cutting out danger. He's surely one of the players of the competition.

0
11:34
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33' - Osas booked for impeding El Kaabi's movement. It is the first yellow of the game.



1
11:32
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30' - Morocco 0-0 Nigeria

0
11:32
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29' - Nigeria being harried off the ball by the Moroccans. El Hadadd is on the pitch, requiring medical attention. Freekick quickly taken but Ajiboye gratefully gathers Banoune's ball.



1
11:28
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27' - Nigeria getting ambitious after the Moroccans fail to make their early dominance count. This game is living up to its billing as the championship game of the tournament.

0
11:27
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25' - Good work from Eneji but Okechukwu slips and fails to connect in the Moroccan box. Best moment yet for Nigeria in this game.

1
11:22
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20' - Morocco 0-0 Nigeria


0
11:20
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18' - Another freekick for Morocco. Nigeria break away but rabiu Ali's touch was too heavy and the ball rolls harmlessly to the Moroccan keeper.

0
11:16
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15 - El Kaabi shows why he's the leading scorer in the competition, his outrageous overhead kick grazes the crossbar. Moment of respite for Nigeria.

0
11:15
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12' - Nigeria clears into throw but the Moroccans regroup to attack again. They have one attack plan: long balls over the Nigerian midfield to the flanks. They are hoping to exploit the strength of Hadraf on the right flank.

0
11:12
completesportsnigeria
11' - I warned the Eagles to be wary of Hadraf, the number 7 shirt. He's caused all sorts of problems for Nigeria already and won a freekick on the edge of the box.

0
11:10
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9' - Ogbugh picks the pocket of Jbira but before he could move ahead he's called back for a foul on the Moroccan.

0
11:09
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7' - Nigeria is let off as Morocco's headed goal was chalked off. The ball had apparently gone off. On the other end, Peter Eneji blasts Nigeria's chance off the bar.

0
11:07
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6' - End to end action results in corner-kick for Morocco.


Morocco's Nahiri is on the pitch, apparently injured. He's up now, to the relief of his coach.

0
11:05
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4' - Eze gets off lightly after a kick on El Kaabi but Morocco wins a freekick.

0
11:04
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2' - Morocco show intent early, trying to attack Nigeria with long balls. Nearly paid off there but El Karti's ball goes off the near post. narrowly.

0
11:02
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1' The stadium is filled to capacity with massive support for the Atlas Lions.

1
11:02
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1' Nigeria gets the game underway.

0
11:01
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In the absence of Ezenwa, central defender Kalu Orji is stand-in captain for Nigeria.

0
10:56
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Apart from shirt number 9 El Kaabi who's scored eight goals so far in the competition, Nigeria must also be wary of number 7 shirt Hadraf, a cunny winger who's deceptively frail.

0
10:55
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Line up for both teams:



Nigeria:



16 Ajiboye

2 Osas

12 Udoh

5 Orji

6 Eze

10 Ali

4 Atuloma

15 Ojo

7 Ogbugh

22 Okechukwu

11 Eneji



Morocco:



1 Zniti

5 El Yamiq'

6 Boulhroude

7 Hadraf

8 Saidi

9 El Kaabi

10 El Karti

11 El Haddad

13 Banoune

16 Nahiri

20 Jbira

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/live-blogging-morocco-vs-nigeria-2018-chan-final/

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho has admitted that his side cannot catch city rivals Manchester City in this season’s race for the Premier League title.

United are second, 15 points behind City with 13 matches left in the campaign.

“They are doing so so well and not letting others come close,” Mourinho said during his pre-match press conference on on Friday ahead of the Premier League home clash with Huddersfield.

“With the points we have in normal conditions the distance that keeps the fight open and in this moment the fight is open for 2,3,4,5 but the fight for 1 is closed.”

“City have been strong, they’ve even won matches when they didn’t deserve to, they’ve scored late goals with last pushes and this is why there is such a distance. It’s too pragmatic to say the other five teams have failed.”

Mourinho insists his side have improved despite being so far behind their main rivals City.

He added: “I don’t remember us being fourth or fifth this season, we’re better than last season in every single aspect. You can do good work without winning titles.”

The match on Saturday will mark the 60th anniversary of the Munich air disaster which claimed a generation of Manchester United players on their way back from a European fixture in 1958.

“I was saying before that this is something that is part of my life, part of my football culture even before I was here, it was such a tragedy, as Manchester United manager it means much more, but it belongs to every sportsman,” Mourinho said.

“I think tomorrow is an amazing day to show respect and the passion for the club. It’s a day to play well and to bring happiness and joy, for people to be together and enjoying their colours.

“It’s not because of the Munich disaster that tomorrow’s game becomes important for us, it’s important for us because we need points to be the first of the lasts. We have to try to finish second.”

Mourinho confirmed that Marouane Fellaini will miss Saturday’s Premier League clash against Huddersfield Town at Old Trafford.

The Belgian midfielder picked up a knee injury in the Red Devils’ 2-0 midweek defeat to Tottenham Hotspur.

“They [the medical team] are still working on it,” said Mourinho during his pre-match conference.

“It’s an injury and I feel sorry for him personally and I feel sorry for the team because he’s an important player for us.

“I don’t have news because I don’t want to give you news based on the initial approach.”

“But I don’t think the news is very good. He has a problem in his knee – it’s the same knee [as previous injuries] but not the same location. It was internal, now it’s external, so let’s wait probably a couple more days, but of course he is out of the game tomorrow.

“It’s not an ACL [anterior cruciate ligament], it’s not a complete rupture of any structure of the knee, so we are not going as far as that. But we need him and the Champions League is arriving, we have lots of tough matches to play. Probably we are going to lose him for a few weeks, but I cannot say if it’s two, three, four or five [weeks]. I cannot say at this moment.”

Mourinho also revealed that he hopes to welcome back Eric Bailly and Zlatan Ibrahimovic back to the squad after their long term injury.

“They are working on the pitch but not yet with us as a group so they are not very close to a return.

“But I want to believe that by Champions League time, around the end of the month, they will be back.”

“I think it’s a day to bring happiness to bring joy,” he said. “For people to be together enjoying the game and at the same time showing all the respect for the people and their families.”

Read more:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/mourinho-united-cant-catch-city-want-win-munich-anniversary/

Home-based Super Eagles goalkeeper, Dele Ajiboye, says the team will strive hard to make history by winning Nigeria’s first African Nations Championship title when they face host nation Morocco in the tournaments’s final game in Casablanca on Sunday, reports [url]Completesportsnigeria.com[/url] (CSN).‎

Salisu Yusuf’s men will be playing in their first final in the history of the competition against the North Americans.

The team finished third four years ago in their debut appearance in South African and failed to progress beyond the group stage in the last edition in Rwanda.

Ajiboye who came in for the injured captain of the team, Ikechukwu Ezenwa, in the semi-final win against Sudan and posted a superb display says the team is battle ready for the game.

“We are on the verge of making history and can’t afford not to go home with the trophy,” the Plateau United goalie informed CSN.

“The hosts (Morocco) have a lot of quality players in their team and have played very well in this competition, but they are beatable.

“We have fought hard to get to this stage despite the injuries and the weather issue and it’s important to end the competition on a high.

“We know it will be difficult as the Moroccans will have a lot of fans cheering them in the stadium but God and the Nigerian spirit in us will see us through. “

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/ajiboye-home-eagles-want-make-history-chan-2018-title/

The venue for the Nigerian trials for the 2018 Gold Coast Commowealth Games scheduled to hold at the Goodswill Akpabio International Stadium Uyo, Akwa Ibom state, has been moved to the Abuja National stadium, the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) has announced.

The trials will hold from February 14th to the 17th, according to a statement from the AFN federation with the deadline for registration fixed for the 10th of February.

The XXI Commonwealth Games will be held on the Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia between 4 and 15 April 2018.

According to a media statement signed by Apeh Melvina, the secretary of the AFN, each state association will pay the sum 100,000 for the annual affiliation fee and register each athlete for the trials with 2,000.

Over 150 athletes across the country are expected to take part in the trials.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/afn-moves-commonwealth-games-trials-venue-uyo-abuja/

Fortuna Sittard’s manager, Sunday Oliseh, is eager to see his side return to winning ways tonight (Friday) when they face FC Volendam in a Dutch second division league clash, [url]Completesportsnigeria.com[/url] (CSN) reports.

Fortuna Sittard have suffered consecutive defeats to Dordrecht and FC Emmen in their last two games, a setback which has seen the Limburg side drop to third in the Dutch second division league table.

Oliseh’s men are now two points adrift leaders NEC Nijmegen and one behind second place Jong Ajax with 44 points from 22 games.

“We just have to pick ourselves up again and start another run till the end of the season,” the former Super Eagles captain and coach told CSN.

“Two of our first team defenders who missed our last two defeats are expected back in the squad and hopefully, we should get a positive result but don’t forget that Volendam are also on a decent run as well.”

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/oliseh-eager-end-poor-fortuna-sittard-run-step-promotion-bid/

Mainz 05 manager Sandro Schwarz has stated that the signing of Nigeria striker Anthony Ujah and Dutch star Nigel De Jong has brought competition into the squad.

Ujah returned to Mainz from Chinese Super League club Liaoning Hongyun in the January transfer window on a three-and-half year contract until 2021.

He first signed for Mainz in 2012 before departing for Cologne in 2015.

Since his return to Mainz, he has made two Bundesliga appearances without a goal yet.

Speaking in his press conference on Thursday, ahead of their Bundesliga home clash against champions Bayern Munich on Saturday, Schwarz however expressed satisfaction with the make-up of his squad.

“The squad size is just right at the minute. There’s a lot of competition for places, especially with Ujah and De Jong now in the mix,” Schwarz said.

And ahead of the big clash, the Mainz gaffer said they will be banking on home support to get a positive result.

He added: “Everyone is aware of Bayern’s quality. During the match we will have to withstand a lot of pressure but we’re hoping to create a special atmosphere in the stadium.”

They are currently 15th on 20 points, three points above the relegation play-off spot in the 18-team Bundesliga table.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/mainz-coach-ujah-de-jong-made-us-competitive/

Desert Hawks of Sudan coach, Zdravko Logarusic, has praised his players’ spirited performance in their CHAN 2018 semi-final loss to Nigeria, and insists that his side didn’t deserve to lose to the Salisu Yusuf’s team, [url]Completesportsnigeria.com[/url] (CSN) reports.

Gabriel Okechukwu made the difference scoring the only goal of the game in the 17th minute to end Sudan’s fairy tale run in the tournament.

Logarusic noted that his team created a plethora of scoring chances in the game. He also praised Nigeria’s substitute goalkeeper, Dele Ajiboye for the stunning saves he made during the game after he came on in the first half for injured captain and first choice goalkeeper, Ikechukwu Ezenwa.

“Sometimes in football, you don’t deserve to lose, but end up losing. Other times, you don’t deserve to win, but end up winning. Today was one of such days,” Logarusic said during his post match interview after the game.

The Croatia added: “He (Oladele Ajiboye) started well and for me, he is the Man of The Match. He is the one who gave Nigeria the final slot. When they needed help at the back, he was the man who saved them.

Maaz Abdelraheem Gismalla of Sudan challenged by Moses Okoro Osas of Nigeria during the 2018 CHAN semifinals football game between Sudan and Nigeria at the Grand stade Marrakech in Marrakech, Morocco on 31 January 2017

“Nigeria put the ball in the net, and that made the difference. What is important after five weeks of being in charge is that we are seeing some progress and are playing nice football.

“We have boys who can compete against any country. Today, we did not play against just any country; it was Nigeria, which is a giant in football.

“It was good for African football. We have picked some experience and will prepare for the next game (Third Place match vs Libya).

“It was a very high level game with high challenges and many chances.”

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/sudan-coach-logarusic-didnt-deserve-defeat-nigeria-ajiboye-motm/

Nigeria striker, Brown Ideye, has congratulated the home-based Super Eagles following their qualification for the final of the 2018 Total African Nations Championship (CHAN) on Wednesday in Marrakech, Morocco, [url]Completesportsnigeria.com[/url] (CSN)‎ reports.
‎
A 17th minute strike by Gabriel Okechukwu, secured a 1-0 win for the Eagles against Sudan and a first-ever final berth in CHAN.

Both teams had a player sent off – Ifeanyi Ifeanyi received a second yellow card for a dangerous tackle, while Sudan’s Bachir Bakri was shown a straight red card for tripping Dayo Ojo who was goal bound.

The Eagles will face hosts Morocco in the final on Sunday in Casablanca.

Morocco also qualified for their first-ever CHAN final after defeating Libya 3-1 in extra-time also on Wednesday.

Reacting to the Eagles qualification for the final, Ideye who recently joined Spanish LaLiga outfit, Malaga, hailed Home Eagles’ goalkeeper, Dele Ajiboye for an outstanding performance after replacing the injured Ikechukwu Ezenwa.

“Waoh!!! Ajiboye! Congratulations guys. #TotalCHAN2018,” Ideye wrote on his verified Twitter handle.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/ideye-hails-home-eagles-reaching-chan-2018-final-thumbs-ajiboyes-showing-vs-sudan/

Last Updated: 13:28 Last to first
0
SUDAN 1
NIGERIA
13:28
[url]completesportsnigeria[/url]
See you on Sunday

0
13:28
completesportsnigeria
FT: Sudan 0-1 Nigeria

Congratulations Nigeria and thank you for staying with us for this live-blogging....


0
13:26
completesportsnigeria


Its Nigeria against host Morocco in Sunday's final



0
13:24
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FT: Sudan 0-1 Nigeria



Its all over!!! Nigeria are in the finals.



0
13:23
completesportsnigeria
90+2 Nigeria have seconds to hold on now



0
13:23
completesportsnigeria
90+2 Ajiboye saves again.

0
13:22
completesportsnigeria
90' - Two minutes have been added. Nigeria is less than 120 seconds away from a first ever CHAN final



0
Updated: 13:22
completesportsnigeria
89'- Corner for Nigeria as they attempt to whine down the clock. Game still 1-0 in favour of the Super Eagles



1
13:19
completesportsnigeria
88' - Freekick for Nigeria. Osas plays but it goes narrowly wide.





0
13:18
completesportsnigeria
87' - Corner for Sudan. Nigeria break away. Red card for Bachir for hacking goal-bound Dayo Ojo. Game now 10-man each.





0
13:17
completesportsnigeria
86' - Nigeria throwing bodies on the line but Sudan are unrelenting





2
13:15
completesportsnigeria
83' - Ajiboye saves again! Sudan get second corner in quick succession. Nigeria living dangerously now





1
13:13
completesportsnigeria
81' - Goalkeeper Ajiboye has been a calming influence on the Nigerian backline. His assured performance has helped the Super Eagles to hold their own against Sudan's attack





1
13:11
completesportsnigeria
80' - Sudan 0-1 Nigeria

0
Updated: 13:11
completesportsnigeria
79' - Ibrahim attempts to make an instant impact but his header off Osas Okoro's free-kick goes wide



0
13:10
completesportsnigeria
77' - Ibrahim Mustapha comes on for Rabiu Ali who's been one of Nigeria's better performers on the night.





0
13:04
completesportsnigeria


73' - Oladapo still receiving treatment but game is back in play

1
13:01
completesportsnigeria
67' - Nigeria enjoy a moment of brief dominance but Sudan are not letting up on the pressure





0
12:55
completesportsnigeria
65' Sudan bring on Walaedin for Maaz as they go in search of that elusive equaliser





1
12:53
completesportsnigeria
62' - Okpotu is sacrificed for Abdulahi Musa with Nigeria needing to defend their goal. It's a long way to go for the Super Eagles





0
12:51
completesportsnigeria
60' - Sudan's Omer is also yellow carded. Game is very physical now





0
12:51
completesportsnigeria
58' - Red card for Ifeanyi Ifeanyi, a second yellow card for dangerous tackle. I saw that coming



Nigeria now reduced to 10 men with a goal to defend for over half an hour





0
12:49
completesportsnigeria
57' - Tackles flying but quality of the football has dropped considerably





0
12:43
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51' - Hashim is yellow-carded for dangerous play on Okechukwu. Bit of frustration setting in for the Sudanese





0
12:41
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50' - Extended periods of possession by Nigeria. Running rings round Sudan who have been prevented from largely playing their usually compact game.





0
12:41
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48' - It's same of the same, Nigeria continuing first half tactics which has served very well. The long balls still trouble Sudan





0
12:40
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46' - Second half underway

0
12:21
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HT: Sudan 0-1 Nigeria





5
12:20
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45+4 Okpotu attempts to set up Okechukwu but his touch is a tad heavy. 60 seconds left to play in this half





0
12:18
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45+2 Desperate defending by Nigeria.





1
12:16
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45+1 Five minutes added for the lengthy treatment to Ezenwa and other stoppages. Fair enough





0
12:16
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44' - Point-blank save by Ajiboye who practically hauled the ball out of the net with a desperate left hand. Nigeria just lucky to hold their lead

0
12:14
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43' - Sudan have been slightly dominant in the last few minutes but Nigeria must take this lead into the interval





0
12:11
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40' - Sudan 0-1 Nigeria

3
12:10
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39' - Injury scare for Okechukwu who limps to the sidelies for treatment. he's back on the pitch.





0
12:05
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35' - Sudan breaks with a lovely cross-field pass but the final delivery was nodded just inches from the crossbar by Saifeldin who's been quiet all game





0
12:04
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33' - Another long ball tries to find Okechukwu but Bakri scrambles it away for a corner.





0
12:03
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32' - Rabiu Ali tries a speculative long ball but it goes over the bar.





0
11:59
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28' - Nigeria employs the long kick forward once again but Sudan deal with it without much fuss.

The Super Eagles have had the better chances and more possession, coach Salisu Yusuf's strategy giving Sudan much to worry about





0
11:56
completesportsnigeria
25' - So far Rabiu Ali has been peerless, hardly getting any foot wrong.

Gabriel nearly gets a second but he drags his shot wide





0
11:53
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23' - Corner for Sudan but wasted.





0
11:52
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21' - The Nigerian strategy is simple but so far effective. Get the ball and hit it over the Sudanese defence, hoping the fast forwards will get there first. Working well so far





2
11:50
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20' - Nigeria 1-0 Sudan





0
11:49
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19' - Okpotu nearly makes it two, another thorough ball to him but he hits it straight at the body of the on-rushing goalkeeper





0
11:48
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17' - It's the first time Sudan have gone behind in this competition and just the second goal they're conceding. How will they react? We have 70 minutes plus to find out





2
11:47
completesportsnigeria
16' - Goal!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!



Nigeria 1-0 Sudan



Okechuckwu latches on to a pass and calmly slots past Akram in goal for Sudan. Lovely kbock down by Okpotu

4
11:46
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16' - Hearts-stopping moment as Sudan threatens with the first real attack of the game.





0
11:43
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12' - Forced substitution for Nigeria. Inspirational captain Ezenwa goes off for Ajiboye.





0
11:42
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Ajiboye, former Golden Eaglets goalkeeper is with current League champions Plateau United.





0
11:42
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10' - Moment of apprehension for Nigeria. Ezenwa still not looking good. He's to be stretchered off. Ajiboye Oladele is coming on to take his place.





0
11:40
completesportsnigeria
Not looking good for Nigeria. Ezenwa stands up but immediately lies flat on his back.





0
11:40
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7' - Ezenwa is still being treated but one must say he was quick-thinking to rush out in timely fashion. He was Man of the Match in the last game after pulling incredible saves. Will this be another night of Ezenwa heroics?

0
11:37
completesportsnigeria
6' - Timely save by Ezenwa as Aagla sneaks in behind the sloppy defence. Ezenwa is knocked in the process and is getting medical attention.





0
11:36
completesportsnigeria


5' - Nigeria makes some beautiful quick interchange of passes but are cut short before they could do much harm.

0
11:34
completesportsnigeria
2 - Nigeria is opting for a 4-4-2 formation, an indication of what coach Salisu Yusuf expects from the game. He's started the two goalscorers from the last match against Angola, Okpotu and Okechukwu





0
11:32
completesportsnigeria
2' - Sudan have a mean defence. They have conceded just one goal in four games so far. Nigeria must produce something special to break them down

0
11:31
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1' - KIckoff

0
Updated: 11:27
completesportsnigeria
NIGERIA XI:

1 Ezenwa

2 Okoro

5 Kalu

6 Eze

12 Udoh

8 Ifeanyi

15 Ojo

10 Ali

18 Oladapo

22 Okechukwu

9 Okpotu



SUDAN XI:

16 Akram

4 Omer

18 Samawal

5 Bakri

22 AbdelLatif Bouya

8 Hashim

19 Bisha

11 Maaz

2 Abu Aagla

23 Nasreldin

9 Saifeldin bakhit



0
11:26
completesportsnigeria
Nigeria got to this stage of the competition after a hard-fought 2-1 win over Angola which dragged into extra-time.



Sudan, on the other hand, shocked tournament favourites Zambia with a 1-0 win.



0
11:25
completesportsnigeria
Morocco have been excellent hosts and have demonstrated their readiness to host even bigger competitions. In actual fact, they are bidding to host the FIFA World Cup in 2026.



0
11:25
completesportsnigeria
The winner of this tie will therefore meet Morocco in Sunday's final match at the Stade Mohammed V in Casablanca.



0
11:24
completesportsnigeria
Earlier this evening, host country Morocco zoomed into the final after a 3-1 victory over fellow North Africans Libya.



0
Updated: 11:24
completesportsnigeria
Ladies and gentlemen, good evening and welcome to www.completesportsnigeria.com CHAN 2018 between Nigeria and Sudan from the Stade de Marrakech in Morocco

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/live-blogging-sudan-vs-nigeria-2018-chan-semi-finals/

With the Home-based Super Eagles set to face Sudan in the semi-finals of the ongoing 2018 African Nations Championship (CHAN) on Wednesday, [url]Completesportsnigeria.com[/url]’s ADEBOYE AMOSU picks Nigeria’s top five players so far at the tournament…

IKECHUKWU EZENWA

The captain of the team was at his best in Nigeria’s 2-1 quarter-final victory over the Palancas Negras of Angola on Sunday. The Eagles should probably have been home now and not thinking of a date with Sudan in the last four if not for his bravery and heroics in goal.

Ezenwa has led by example in the competition even though he was largely tested prior to the Angolan game but he has been a good leader on and off the pitch.

STEPHEN EZE

The tall defender was axed in a couple of test games ahead of the African Nations Championship and that seems to have motivated him as he has worked very hard to become a mainstay in the team’s defence.
Eze, who will link up with Bulgarian club Locomotiv Plovdiv at the end of the competition won the man of the match in the game against Rwanda.

DAYO OJO

Dayo Ojo was dropped from the squad to the 2016 African Nations Championship in Rwanda, but he has proved his worth with an impressive showing in Morocco.

The Sunshine Stars midfielder scored a screamer in Nigeria’s last group game against Equatorial Guinea and was duly named the man of the match.
He also did well in the quater-final clash against Angola, and he was one of Nigeria’s best performers in the game.

KALU ORJI

One of the four players in the team that were part of the squad to the 2016 African Nations Championship in Rwanda. He has formed a formidable partnership with Stephen Eze at the heart of the team’s defence and was sorely missed after going off injured in Nigeria’s quarter-final game against Angola.

OSAS OKORO

The right-back has done his job well in the competition. Originally a right winger, the Enugu Rangers player is a willing runner who always supports the attack and performs his defensive tasks.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/5-outstanding-home-eagles-far-chan-2018/

Roger Federer continued to defy his advanced age as he won his 20th Grand Slam men’s singles title in Melbourne, Australia on Sunday.

The Swiss maestro, 36, defeated Marin Cilic in five sets 6-2, 6-7, 6-3, 3-6, 6-1 in the Australian Open final to extend his record as the most successful men’s tennis player in history.

Federer powered through the first set with an easy 6-2 win and looked to be coasting to his sixth Australian Open title.

But Cilic fought back gamely to win the second set 7-6 and tie the gripping final 1-1.

The next two sets were shared, with Federer first winning 6-3 and Cilic also winning by the same score.

But Federer was not to be stopped from claiming the title under the closed roof, ruthlessly winning the fifth and final set 6-1.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/unstoppable-federer-stops-cilic-win-20th-grand-slam-title/

Super Eagles striker Brown Ideye has expressed his delight and relief after he completed a loan move from Chinese Super League side Tianjin Teda to Spanish LaLiga club Malaga on Monday, [url]Completesportsnigeria.com[/url] reports.

Speaking after he was certified fit by club doctors on Monday; the former Dynamo Kyiv striker said he is already looking forward to settle down to serious business at Malaga.

“I am happy and looking forward to it. I am looking forward to playing here at Malaga right from the first day I played against the club in a friendly match. I like it here and I am happy to be here,” Ideye told MalagaTV on Monday.

Tianjin Teda paid Olympiakos €12m to land Ideye in 2016 but has not featured the first team competition since last summer.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/ideye-joined-malaga-loan/

Home-based Super Eagles coach, Salisu Yusuf, says the team may have passed their most difficult test of the competition so far following Sunday’s 2-1 quater-final victory against Angola at the 2018 African Nations Championship, [url]Completesportsnigeria.com[/url] (CSN) reports.

Yusuf’s charges were stretched for long periods in the encounter by the Palancas Negras who took a shock lead early in the second half and had goalkeeper Ikechukwu Ezenwa to thank for keeping the team in the game with a number of vital saves.

The Home Eagles rallied back late in the game to score the equaliser through Anthony Okpotu in added time before getting the winning goal courtesy of a fine strike by Gabriel Okechukwu in the second period of extra time.

The gaffer reckoned that he never lost faith in his players and had the belief that they will bounce back in the game.

“Today’s (Sunday) game was the most difficult for us in the tournament as we fought for 90 minutes against a good team,” Yusuf stated in his interaction with the media after the game.

“We never lost faith in our players because we were creating chances and the more you do that the chances of scoring are higher.”

Yusuf also backed under fire striker, Anthony Okpotu who missed a number of goal scoring opportunities in the game to come good in the competition despite widespread criticism about his performance.

“I’m so confident about Anthony Okpotu and we believe in him and he has been scoring despite missing some chances, but he will be much better in the coming matches,” the former Kano Pillars coach stated.

“We never understimated Angola. They play good football and are a good team, but the important thing was to win and we won.”

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/salisu-angola-game-toughest-okpotu-will-come-better/