₦airaland Forum

A document has surfaced which may implicate Kano Pillars in a match-fixing scandal.
The document was published by on Saturday by online news portal, and contains the minutes of an alleged meeting of one of the club’s committees. The document, dated 4 May, has a heading that reads:

“Match Officials Reception Committee of Kano Pillars Football Club.”

According to the document, the main agenda of the meeting was to address the poor placement of the club on the league table as they were 14th in the standings with 13 points from 10 rounds of matches.

According to the document, the resolution passed at the meeting was to issue increased ‘PR’ to match officials for guaranteed away wins and away draws.

PR is a popular term for bribery in Nigerian business circles.

Source: http://completesportsnigeria.com/kano-pillars-in-match-fixing-scandal/

A deadly disease that have recently killed scores of people across the West African region, the Ebola, have led to the suspension of the domestic leagues in Liberia and Sierra Leone where the disease is turning into an epidemic.

Sadly, the disease has found its way into Nigeria with reported deaths of a few Nigerians.

There is an increasing awareness of the Ebola danger and people are afraid to get in contact with others for fear of contracting the dreaded virus.

Sports events are contact activities, and the stadiums are the venues where thousands of fans converge to support their teams.

With the dreaded Ebola now in the country, do you support the idea that football matches in the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL), other football games and sports events should go on a recess while the Federal Government through the Ministry of Health search for solutions to the Ebola scourge?

Do you believe that the emergence of this disease which could significantly be avoided by bodily contact with infested persons can hinder football and other sports in Nigeria and West Africa in general?

Are there ways the Ministry of Health and the Nigeria Football Federation can help allay the fears of football players and fans, and effectively raise awareness on how not to contract the Ebola virus? What measures do you think the authorities should implement so that Nigerians will not be deprived of sports events due to the outbreak of the Ebola disease?

Source: http://completesportsnigeria.com/ebola-outbreak-in-nigeria-should-sports-events-be-suspended/

Former Super Eagles star, Chinedu Ogbuke Obasi is undoubtedly one of the most talented Nigerian youngsters who ably represented the country well from the youth teams. A product of the Flying Eagles and the national U-23 team to Holland 2005 U-20 World Cup and Beijing 2008 Olympics, Obasi here recaptures memories of his illustrious career…

LIFE AT SCHALKE 04
It’s been alright as far as I’m concerned. I have been working hard and enjoying my game but unfortunately, injury set in. Everything is intact now and I am feeling good, I’m really looking forward to the new season.

DAILY LIFE WITH COACH JENS KELLER
He likes me and has continued to believe in me and that has really impacted positively in the way I put in my best for the club. Besides, everybody knows how determined I am. I don’t give up and most times , my teammates know how much I put in when I’m on the field of play. I just have to do everything I can to please him. I came in as a loanee and he fell in love with my game and that was it. I am happy working here.

MY ENGLISH PREMIER LEAGUE DREAM
That is my dream as a player and I will continue to believe until that dream sees the light of the day. It is the league that most Nigerians like to follow always because of it’s stiff competition. I started watching the EPL as a kid and grew up as a staunch follower of EPL. I look forward to the day I will make that move and I know it’s going to be soon, hopefully. I am happy my injury nightmares are over now and just hope things fall into place. Right now, I am with Schalke 04 and the new season is what is paramount before me at the moment.

SCHALKE’S CHANCES IN 2014/2015 BUNDESLIGA
In every season, all you do is prepare well for fresh challenge but you can never tell who the winner will be until the end of the season. The dual dominance of the Bundesliga by Bayern and Dortmund was challenged by Schalke 04. We came third last season and we hope to do better this season. We have good players to strengthen the team for the coming season so I am looking forward to a better season. All we need to do is to remain focused if we really want to give Bayern and Dortmund a good fight. We just want to improve on our performance last season.

MISSING OUT OF BRAZIL 2014 WORLD CUP
It was disappointing! To be honest with you, I was highly disappointed not going to Brazil because that was what I had my sight and attention set on but it did not come to pass. I came to the conclusion that Nigeria is blessed with so many talents and we all cannot play at the same time. I have taken that as my fate and since moved on. Missing out of Brazil is a way of telling me to work harder. The head coach has to decide who plays and who doesn’t. I am glad that things went fairly well for the team until they lost to France in the second round. It will be great to come back to the Super Eagles fold and I am already working hard to achieve that. I want to do well at club level, then we can begin to think of better days with the national team.

ALTERNATIVE CAREER APART FROM FOOTBALL
Hmmm… I have always wanted to be a lawyer! That is one profession I love with a passion and had it not been for football; I would have ended up at the Bar. I hate seeing people being cheated for what is rightfully theirs. I would have loved to become a lawyer but it’s football for me now.

CAN SUPER EAGLES DEFEND AFCON TROPHY IN MOROCCO?
Of course, impossible is nothing! Nigeria has got the right players to get that done in Morocco 2015 provided the team can stay focused and stick together. Nigeria should not have problem qualifying for the next AFCON not disrespecting South Africa right now. With the right preparation, Super Eagles have what it takes to defend the title they won almost two years ago.

RELATIONSHIP WITH STEPHEN KESHI
I have never spoken to him. I think the only time I met him was in 2011 in Kaduna when he became Super Eagles manager, that was our first and nearest encounter. I have never spoken to him on phone and I can’t really say he knows me that much. Having said that, Keshi is a great manager and I have lots of respect for him because of what he has achieved. It’s nice to have him around as Super Eagles manager.

WHERE YOU BORN WITH A SILVER SPOON?
(Smiles) I grew up just like any ordinary Nigerian boy who has to struggle to get what he wants in life. I did a whole lot of odd jobs like hawking to keep body and soul together. I did other odd jobs to support my parents then because I was not born with a silver spoon. My parents worked very hard just like all ordinary parents would do. My mum was great and she did all that was required to keep us going at that time. It was a hard time, a difficult time to be a young man.

PARENTAL SUPPORT AS A YOUNG FOOTBALLER
(Pause)That question is a tough one. Just like every Nigerian kid, your parents would always want you to go to school, but I think my mom did a lot to ensure I succeed in my choice to become a footballer. My mom knows I love football and she admitted I was talented, I think that made her support me.

FASHION AND LOVE FOR FAST CARS
I am no car freak, I am cool and calm in all I do. I love designer clothes and shoes but I can’t really say there is one particular designer that I like most. I just love to look my best.

LIFE’S HIGHS AND LOWS
I have got no regret in my life because God has been very faithful to me. Injury is part of life for every footballer, it will come and go. I don’t regret dumping Norway to play for Nigeria. Back then at Lyn Oslo with Mikel Obi, I was encouraged to nationalize and become a Norwegian. They wanted me to play for them at that time and I must confess I gave it a thought for a long time. I had already played for Nigeria in one of the friendly games which was one of the deciding factors in my final choice. I love Nigeria and I was well received by the senior players in Super Eagles. I had to walk up to them in Norway and say no. Each time I look back, I still have to thank God for that decision because I know my future lies with the Super Eagles.

Source: http://completesportsnigeria.com/obasi-i-dumped-norway-to-play-for-nigeria/

By Richard Jideaka, Abuja.

The executive committee of the Nigeria Football Federation has approved the contract extension of Stephen Keshi as Super Eagles head coach following the recommendation of its three-man technical sub-committee.

The Executive Committee also approved that the Acting President of the federation, Chief Mike Umeh convene a meeting of the NFF Emergency Committee to approve and finalize details of Keshi’s possible re–engagement within the shortest possible time.

Complete Sports gathered that the three-man committee recommended that Keshi should be paid N7m as monthly salary as well as the provision of an official accommodation and official vehicle.

Keshi,we gathered wanted to be paid N10m a month but the committee were able to talk him into accepting N7m as his monthly take home pay.

The man who led Nigeria to her third Africa Cup of Nations win last year in South Africa, we further gathered also asked for more powers as well as non-intereference in technical matter of the team by the technical sub-committee of the federation.

“We have made our report to the executive committee of the NFF and it behoves on them to fine tune it and make the offer,”Etubom Paul Bassey,a member of the committee told the media in Abuja yesterday.

“With an AFCON qualifier around the corner in September, it is only wise we allow Keshi to continue as the Head Coach of the Super Eagles for the purpose of continuity,” he stated.

Asked if they agreed to meet the N10 million reportedly demanded by Keshi, Bassey explained that they advised the executive to be sure of where the money is coming from before making the offer noting that if the NFF was finding it difficult to pay Keshi N5 million a month, paying N10 million will be harder.

“In going forward,we should look back from where we were coming from. The federation have to be sure that the money is there before making the new improved offer,”he quipped.

Super Eagles adding that his report and that of the technical committee should be married and sent to the NFF.

Complete Sports however learnt that Keshi’s decision to remain as Nigeria’s head coach was finalised following his meeting with President Goodluck Jonathan after leading the Super Eagles to the round of 16 at the last FIFA World Cup in Brazil.

Keshi,we scooped had demanded for the removal of Barrister Chris Green as the technical sub-committee head of the federation immediately after the World Cup and the turn of events which saw Alhaji Aminu Maigari impeached as NFF president and excommunicated from the federation as well as the withling down of the influnce of Green in the aftermath of Maigari’s impeachement.

Keshi’s immediate task is to qualify Nigeria for next year’s AFCON with the qualifiers starting in September.

Source: http://completesportsnigeria.com/keshi-gets-new-n84m-a-year-deal/

The South Africa Football Association (SAFA) will today, July 26, announce the successor to erstwhile coach of the South African national team coach, Gordon Igesund.

Nigeria’s Stephen Keshi who was coach of the Super Eagles until after the 2014 World Cup is among the frontrunners for the job of Bafana Bafana managerial position.

Only on Thursday, the Executive Committee of the Nigeria Football Federation decided to go into talks with Keshi for another stint as Eagles coach.

Now with SAFA likely to prefer Keshi amongst other coaches on their shortlist after a long standing interest in his services, do you think it is best Keshi takes up the job as Bafana Bafana coach?

Would continuing as the Super Eagles ‘boss’ serve him best?

Where do you think Keshi would best be appreciated and respected by the Football authorities and fans: Nigeria or South Africa?

Send in your thoughts and opinions using the “Leave a Reply” field at the lower part of this page. Please, provide your authentic email address in the required field before posting your comment. Your comment will show here in few minutes after the moderator has approved it. Have you say now!

Read More: http://completesportsnigeria.com

Real Madrid superstar Cristiano Ronaldo and world class music Rapper Lil Wayne will go Into business together.

A report monitored in TMZ reveals that American rapper Lil Wayne is set to branch out into sports management and his No.1 client will be Real Madrid and Portugal superstar Cristiano Ronaldo.

The pair are said to be close friends and Ronaldo’s high profile will help grow the business in the early days of its introduction into the world of sport.

The Hip Hop star’s company will work closely with PolarisSports, which has affiliations with the CAA Agency and GestiFute Sports, two agencies that the Madrid ace’s agent Jorge Mendes uses.

Lil Wayne is set to handle all of Ronaldo’s business in the USA, from the 29-year-old’s branding and marketing in the country, to pushing his new modelling career.

Currently, the Portuguese captain is recognised as the best footballer in the world after winning the 2014 Ballon d’Or ahead of great rival at FC Barcelona, Lionel Messi.

Ronaldo has been used in many marketing and advertising campaigns and Lil Wayne is sure to be kept busy by the forward’s commercial demands.

Read More: http://www.completesportsnigeria.com

Chelsea of England midfielder Mikel Obi has admitted Nollywood actress Genevieve Nnaji has a likeable and lovable personality.

Mikel, who is an Amstel Malta Ambassador, spoke as a guest at an event organised by the brand in Lagos.

“We work together, it’s a working relationship,” Mikel said. “We endorsed Amstel Malta together, she’s a very nice person; I spoke to her a few times and she’s a very lovely person,”said Mikel who has been criticised for his below par performance in Brazil at the FIFA World Cup. The Chelsea star is however unpertubed by the criticisms admitting he is always happy to accept criticisms whenever he goes wrong playing for the national team.

“I love when you guys criticise me for not doing something right; I love when you guys praise me as well. So I love all of it.”

“It gives us joy every time we see fans come out and support us and keep praying for us,” he said.

Read More: http://completesportsnigeria.com/mikel-genevieve-is-loveable/

Diego Maradona says it is not impossible for Argentina to beat Germany in Sunday’s World Cup final, while suggesting he is happy his country will not face hosts Brazil.

Germany hammered Brazil 7-1 in Tuesday’s first semifinal, putting in a thrilling attacking performance that makes them many people’s favourites to lift the trophy in the tournament decider in Rio de Janeiro.

Argentina’s semifinal progress past the Netherlands was less impressive, with a penalty shootout needed after 120 minutes on Wednesday night.

However, Maradona, who led Argentina to a 3-2 victory over West Germany in the 1986 decider, said on Venezuelan TV show “De Zurda” that he was confident the current side could repeat that achievement.

“Germany is not impossible,” Maradona said. “Argentina can do it. Against Algeria, we saw one Germany, and against Brazil [we saw] another. But we all expected it to be Brazil. Argentina are going in strengthened. Once again Argentine football is back at the top. The jersey had lost prestige. Today it got it back.“

Maradona admitted the game had not been an attacking spectacle but said Alejandro Sabella’s side had been excellent in terms of the way they defended.

“Argentina did not play well, but they did not let Netherlands play well,” he said.

“That was so important. Argentina pressed them on the pitch. [Wesley] Sneijder was not allowed to have one shot at goal. [Arjen] Robben was always pushed inside. He had [Javier] Mascherano who was on top of him with [Marcos] Rojo. [Ezequiel] Garay was superb. ‘Chiquito’ [goalkeeper Sergio Romero] you cannot even talk about. I think Leo [Messi] felt tired and they marked him very well, but he played well. I want to highlight how well the defence worked, the collective work, keeping it tight.”

Javier Mascherano’s contribution was singled out for special praise by Diego Maradona.
Argentina’s 2010 World Cup coach had special praise for the current team’s leader in midfielder Mascherano, especially for his last-gasp block on Netherlands dangerman Robben late in normal time.

“‘Masche’ was exceptional,” he said. “When I said it was ‘Masche’ and 10 more, they laughed. Today they could not laugh. The example on the pitch is Mascherano. Everyone follows his rhythm. So they cannot score against us. With that one chance for Robben, ‘Masche’ is behind but he reads the danger and comes in running and throws all he has to block it for a corner.”

Mascherano himself, who was named man of the match after an immense performance despite taking a blow to his head in the first half, said in Marca that he was proud of his team but wanted to go on now and win the trophy on Sunday.

“If this group deserved anything it was this,” Mascherano said. “We played a brilliant game, we were not afraid of anything, and we know that on Sunday we will play the game of our lives. We hope to crown this with the trophy, but either way I feel so proud of this squad. It is a dream for all of us, to return Argentina to this possibility. I am happy for my teammates — they are all phenomenons.”

After an underwhelming 120 minutes, Messi converted his side’s first penalty in the shootout. The Barcelona star later wrote a Facebook message while he waited for a drug test after the game, in which he remembered Argentine journalist Jorge ‘Topo’ Lopez, who was killed in a tragic traffic accident on Tuesday night after the first semifinal.

“I was called for the drug test, and I cannot be in the dressing room at this moment,” Messi wrote. “I feel proud to be part of this squad. What phenomenons they all are, what a game they played, what madness. We are in the final. We will enjoy it … we have just one little step more to take. All the best to everyone in Argentina and a very special memory for Jorge ‘Topo’ Lopez, this win is especially for you, friend. A huge hug for the family.”

Read More: http://completesportsnigeria.com/maradona-germany-are-beatable/

The Super Eagles of Nigeria have received a timely boost ahead of their round of 16 tie against France as central defender Godfrey Oboabona has been passed fit.

Obaboana went out injured in Nigeria’s first game at the World cup missing the last two group games due to it.

The former Sunshine Stars captain failed a late fitness test prior to the last game but has participated in full training sessions since then.

In his absence captain Joseph Yobo has deputised admirably but his return to match fitness will gladden the hearts of team handlers and fans of the team due to his two years near perfect understanding with Kenneth Omeruo in the heart of Eagles defence.

It’s not yet known if he will be reinstated into the team’s starting line up to beef up a defence that conceded three goals in their last group game against Argentina.

Aside his defensive abilities, Obaboana is also a threat to opponents defence at set pieces due to his free kicks abilities and aerial prowess.

His partnership with Kenneth Omeruo was the foundation upon which Nigeria lifted the AFCON trophy last year as the Eagles went unbeaten from their second game when he paired with his old Sunshine Stars pal.

Read More: http://completesportsnigeria.com/oboabona-fit-for-france/

Nigeria are not scared of France and are capable of beating them, according to Vincent Enyeama.

The Eagles went through as runners up in Group F, earning a last-16 berth despite a 3-2 defeat in their final group match against Argentina in Porto Alegre.

Stephen Keshi’s side are aiming to reach the World Cup quarter-finals for the first time in their history and, despite coming up against a France side that have impressed so far, Enyeama feels that dream can become a reality.

“We fear nobody,” the 31-year-old said in an interview with L’Equipe.

“We have a culture for football. It’s our way of life. We work for that and we must show the world what we are capable of.

“France are favourites but anything could happen. I said before the tournament that playing them would be my dream fixture.

“To be honest, we have a great confidence in ourselves.”

Read More: http://completesportsnigeria.com/enyeama-eagles-dont-fear-france/

The Home Eagles will have their first training in South Africa tonight ahead of their opening Group A match against Mali at the CHAN in Cape Town.

The team, according to officials will have their first training session on tonight at 8:30pm local time, which is 7:30 Nigerian time.

This will also be the time for their first match against Mali on Saturday.

The team are booked into the Garden Court De Waal, a quiet suburb of the city.

The Eagles landed in Cape Town on Wednesday. They were led by assistant coach Daniel Amokachi, who is holding the forte for Stephen Keshi who stayed back in Nigeria for the CAF Awards before joining the team.

They left the Murtala Mohammed Airport in Lagos on Tuesday night at about 10:30pm. After five and half hours flight with a South Africa Airways plane, the team arrived Johannesburg at 4:30 Nigerian time, which is 5:30 in South Africa.

The team was received by a team of Nigerian Embassy officials led by Ambassador Sunday S Yusuf, who expressed delight at the safe arrival and ensured that the team had a smooth passage through immigration procedure.

The envoy also charged the team to ensure that they win the trophy at the first try.

“Nigerians are now used to winning, especially here in South Africa and I’m sure you will not let the nation down,” he said.

Amokachi assured that the team will do its best at the tourney, even as Keshi is being expected in time before the Eagles opening game against Mali.

After a little wait at the OR Thambo International Airport, the team connected another SAA flight to Cape Town, where they will play their group matches.

The flight to Cape Town lasted 1:40minutes and on arrival the team were received by about 30 cheering and drumming Nigerians under the aegis ‘Nigerian Union in Western Cape’. The group was led by Kalu Obi.

Source: http://www.completesportsnigeria.com/blog/2014/01/chan-eagles-land-in-safrica-begin-training-today

Super Eagles midfielder Mikel Obi is hoping to be crowned Africa's best player at tonight's GLO-CAF Awards ceremony at the prestigious Eko Hotel in Lagos,he said on Wednesday.

The Chelsea midfielder is vying for the prestigious award with the Ivorian pair of Yaya Toure, of English Premier League rivals Manchester City, and Didier Drogba, from Turkish club Galatasaray.

"It is an honour to be selected and nominated for the award. I am looking forward to winning it for my country," Mikel, who has twice been voted Africa's best young player, told AFP by phone from London.

The 26-year-old helped Nigeria win a third Africa Cup of Nations in February last year and also qualify for a fifth World Cup finals in November.

He also won a first-ever UEFA Europa League title for his club side.

Rashidi Yekini, Emmanuel Amuneke and Victor Ikpeba have previously won the CAF player of the year award but former Arsenal ace Nwankwo Kanu was the last Nigeria star to clinch it in 1999.

Mikel said he plans a whistle-stop visit to Lagos, for this evening's awards organized by the continent's highest football authority (CAF) and bankrolled by one of Africa's leading indigenous telecoms operators, Globacom. "I am coming for the CAF awards. I will be flown in and out of Nigeria by the Chelsea jet. I will arrive on the awards day and return immediately after," Mikel disclosed.

Chelsea, currently third in the English Premier League behind Arsenal and Manchester City, are away to Hull City on Saturday.

During tonight's ceremony, winners in 11 categories, voted for by African coaches and captains of national teams, will be unveiled.

These include the African Footballer of the Year, the African Player of The Year (based in Africa), National Team of the Year, Club of the Year, and Coach of the Year. Other categories are the Most Promising Talent, Referee of the Year, Legend of the Year, Fair Play Award, Platinum Award and Africa’s Finest XI. of character and skill he displayed each time he played for both club and country.

African leaders, past and present football icons will converge to witness the coronation of Africa's best football assets. Globacom has been sponsoring the annual CAF Awards since 2005.

Source: http://www.completesportsnigeria.com/news/2014/01/mikel-i-want-to-be-crowned-africas-best

Bosnia coach Safet Susic has predicted it will be a big fight between his team and Nigeria for automatic qualification to the next round of the World Cup.

Bosnia are making their world Cup debut in Brazil and Susic has conceded top place to Argentina in Group F, while he believes his team will battle African champions Nigeria for second place.

“There’s one huge side (Argentina) who will undoubtedly finish first, Nigeria who always get to the World Cup and Iran who are completely unknown to us but finished top in qualifying so are definitely a good team. What’s certain is that we’ll be playing for qualification in the second match against Nigeria,” Susic told FIFA.com

He said his immediate target is for his team to at least reach the knockout stage of the tournament.

Susic admitted his team love to attack, but they lack sttength in depth and could struggle if one or two players are missing.

We’ve been playing really well against smaller teams but so far haven’t beaten a big side like France, Portugal or Brazil,” he said.

“I think that to be a great team, you need to be able to field two sides. We have 10 or so very good players, but the players on the bench aren’t at the same level. When we’re at full strength we can give anyone a run for their money, but that changes if we’re missing one or two players.”

Source: http://www.completesportsnigeria.com/news/2014/01/bosnia-coach-says-its-fight-to-finish-with-nigeria

--Telecom Giant Signs Eagles Star

National Carrier, Globacom has signed Super Eagles and Fenerbache of Turkey striker, Emmanuel Emenike as its latest brand ambassador.

Speaking at the unveiling ceremony held at the Mike Adenuga Towers, Lagos on Friday, Globacom’s National Sales Coordinator, Mr Segun Adeyemo described Emenike as an embodiment of the resilient Nigerian spirit which always triumphed against all odds, adding that Globacom as a super brand always identifies with super stars.

“ Globacom has always been in the forefront of sports development in Nigeria and Africa, committing over N9 billion to the holistic development of the sector. We have stood by the nation’s football because we believe that this is the most patriotic thing to do as a proudly Nigerian telecoms brand," Mr Adeyemo said.

He added that Emenike’s trajectory was a vivid reminder to all youths across the continent that there was no short cut to success with his untiring efforts to score goals for Nigeria.

Responding, Emmanuel Emenike expressed gratitude to Globacom for signing him as a brand ambassador and promised to continue to work hard with his team mates to make sure Nigeria excelled at the World Cup.

Also commenting, the President General , Nigeria Supporters’ Club Worldwide, Dr. Rafiu Oladipo described the signing of Emenike as a Glo brand ambassador as a dream come true and prayed that he would be in good health to bang in goals for the Super Eagles at the World Cup.

“Emenike would score goals for Nigeria like Rashidi Yekini did. Super Eagles will play at least up to the semi finals," Oladipo prophecies, adding "I thank Glo for supporting everything good.

Emenike, watch it! By the grace of God, Glo will increase your value if you excel at the World Cup”, Dr. Ladipo enthused.

Source: http://www.completesportsnigeria.com/news/2014/01/emenike-becomes-glo-ambassador

Nigeria head coach, Stephen Keshi, has confirmed to supersport.com that Kenneth Omeruo, will leave Chelsea on loan.

Keshi explained that it is imperative for the centre-back to leave Stamford Bridge to secure regular playing time to boost his World Cup chance with Nigeria.

“I know he will leave Chelsea soon and it will be on loan. This is a World Cup year and I’ve told him that he needs to be playing regularly to have a chance of being part the team to the World Cup,” said the Nigerian manager to supersport.com from Port Harcourt on Friday.

The 20-year-old defender last season spent 18 months on loan at Dutch club, ADO Den Haag and Keshi believes that the spell helped the young centre half’s development.

“Kenneth is an important player for us and he showed that this year during the (Africa) Cup of Nations. It was good at the time that he spent his time on loan in The Netherlands (with ADO Den Haag after signing for Chelsea) and that helped his career well.

“I believe he will leave Chelsea soon (on loan) to have playing time since this is a World Cup year,” said the former Mali and Togo manager.

Omeruo made his debut for Nigeria in a goalless draw with Cape Verde in a friendly match earlier this year and played a key role in the Super Eagles’ run up to winning the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations in South Africa.

Read More: http://www.completesportsnigeria.com/news/2013/12/omeruo-seeks-chelsea-exit

Super Eagles striker Emmanuel Emenike believes the success recorded by Fenerbahce in the first half of the 2013/14 Super Lig season is as a result of team play.

The Yellow Canaries finished the first half of the Super Lig season in top spot, seven points clear off second placed Kasimpasa.

Emenike in an interview with the club’s TV channel revealed that the collective performance of his team-mates including himself has been instrumental to the club’s impressive run so far in the league.

“The foundation of success is team play. So it is not correct to say that it is just my success instead its a team success.

“I think we have done an important job in the first half of the season. Fenerbahce is a great team and the important thing is that we always aim to prevail in every game,”Emenike stated.

The Nigerian international who has had an impressive 2013 year, helping Nigeria to the Nations Cup triumph in South Africa earlier in the year has been a massive addition to the Ersun Yanal led Fenerbahce side since joining the club for Russian side Spartak Moscow in the summer.

The powerful and prolific forward has made 10 starts from 15 appearances for the Turkish side and has found the back of the net in seven occasions.


Fenerbahce finished the first half of the 2013/14 season with 38 points from 16 league games, recording 12 victories, two draws and two losses while scoring 38 times and conceding 18.

Source: http://www.completesportsnigeria.com/news/2013/12/emenike-team-play-secret-of-fenerbahces-success

Nigeria will halt a poor World Cup run against Argentina because they revolve around a “tired” Lionel Messi, Chinedu Obasi has predicted. The Super Eagles have lost to the South Americans on all three occasions they have clashed at the World Cup.

And both teams will again battle it out in the first round of the tournament in Brazil next year.

But Schalke 04 forward Obasi has told MTNFootball.com he believes the African champions could finally put an end to the dominance of the highly-rated Argentines in Brazil next year. "As a matter of fact, Argentina are built around Lionel Messi and he's already getting tired," Obasi told MTNFootball.com

"I do have the feeling that we can really end their dominance over us next year at the World Cup. I am not underrating them, neither do I encourage my country to underrate them, but Super Eagles have the depth to really match them this time.

“Argentina are our long-time rivals at all national team levels and they have been having an edge over us, but I won't give it to them this time.

This is our time to put an end to that." Obasi has won 18 caps and scored four goals for Nigeria, but he has been overlooked since the 2010 World Cup mainly on account of injuries.

He restated his resolve to fight to make the final squad to Brazil 2014. "It is always great to be back from injury and do better, I am back to do well for Schalke 04, I want to return to the national team and I know what it takes to get national team call up,” Obasi said. “I will try my best to work my way back to the Eagles with full dedication and impressive performance every week. I will return after (the Bundesliga) break to fight for a shirt."

Source: http://www.completesportsnigeria.com/news/2013/12/obasi-boasts-eaglesll-beat-argentina

Interview By David Meshioye

Goal scoring challenges

It is the joy and desire of every striker to score goals and when the goals fail to come, it gives you cause for worry. I really want to keep improving my scoring skills in the national team. I enjoy playing with Emmanuel Emenike and other strikers in Super Eagles because we all play for one another. It doesn’t really matter who scores in every match, all that matters is to see Nigeria win games and the glory is shared by everyone. Having said that, I am not sitting back at all, I want to keep working hard and getting the ball behind the net. There is room for improvement and I believe Nigerians will get to see me at my best in Brazil.

Brazil 2014 World Cup chances

I think we have a very good chance of going further than our previous records in the World Cup if you consider the strength of our team, coupled with the fact that we are a team that is a work in progress. Winning AFCON has really given us confidence that impossible is nothing in football. You can achieve your goal if you believe. Besides, the current Super Eagles players are hungry for glory and Brazil is just the perfect place to do that. Yes, we were at the Confederations Cup and it was a big lesson for us, we will be going for glory in Brazil.

Super Eagles generation next without World Cup experience

The generation of players in Super Eagles will surely go places, given the atmosphere with which we train now in the national team. The fact that most of the players have never featured at the World Cup does not really mean that we can’t surprise bookmakers in Brazil. You can say that experience is a huge factor but I ask this, what more experience do we need than what Confederations Cup offered us? The hunger of success will spur us on in Brazil 2014. My prayer is for my teammates to remain in top shape during the World Cup and the sky will be our limit.

http://www.completesportsnigeria.com/blog/2013/12/ideye-nigerians-will-see-my-best-in-brazil

--Searchlight on Super Eagles Group F foes


ARGENTINA

THE COUNTRY
POPULATION: 40.6 million (UN, 2010)
CAPITAL: Buenos Aires
AREA: 2.8 m sq km (1.1 million sq miles)
MAJOR LANGUAGE: Spanish
MAJOR RELIGION: Christianity
NATIONAL STADIUM: Antonio Liberti Monumental'de Nunez [76 Capacity]

HISTORY AT THE WORLD CUP

URUGUAY 1930
The first ever world cup was held in Uruguay. Only thirteen teams entered the competition which was eventually won by the hosts. The Argentina national football team actually lost in the final with Uruguay. Overall the tournament was bad tempered. It could also be seen as competitive, as there had been a worry it may not capture the public’s attention.

ITALY 1934
Four years later the World cup tournament had undergone a change. It was held in Italy and this time team’s had to qualify to take part. Although the Argentina national football team made it to the finals, they had also undergone a few changes. The side did not contain any players that were in the squad that made it to the final four years previous. This was due to internal disputes. They were eliminated in the first round, losing 3-2 to Sweden.

SWEDEN 1958
After 1934 the Argentina national football team did not enter another tournament until 1958 in Sweden. This was due to disputes over the staging of back-to-back tournaments in Europe and the second World War. On their return they were well fancied but struggled in the group, eventually finishing bottom. After an opening fixture defeat to reigning world champions West Germany, the side recovered to beat giant killers Northern Ireland. The final fixture, to eventual losing finalists Czechoslovakia, was where it really unraveled for the team. A 6-1 defeat left the Argentina national football team on the plane home. The team actually landed in Uruguay to avoid the angry fans in Argentina.

CHILE 1962
The 1962 world cup was notable for being the first to use goal average as a means of separating teams in a group format. Different to today’s goal difference, goal average is calculated by dividing the number of goals scored by goals conceded. This change actually worked to the Argentina national football team’s disadvantage. After beating Bulgaria and losing to England, both they and England drew their last fixtures to end on the same points. On goal average Argentina again fell at the first hurdle, as they had four years previously.

ENGLAND 1996
The 1966 world cup was held in, and won by, England. It proved to be an improvement for the Argentina national football team as they progressed from the initial group phase with two wins and a draw. In the 1st knockout round through the side came unstuck against the hosts in London. Sir Geoff Hurst, hero in the final, scored the only goal in a 1-0 defeat. The game is remembered as a controversial one, as Argentina had a man sent off before the goal.

GERMANY 1974
Despite their progress in 1966, the Argentina national football team actually failed to qualify for the 1970 edition. Upon returning in 1974, the team progressed from their opening group with a win, a draw and a loss. They finished in second place on the same points as Italy, but with a better goal difference. In this format of the world cup the teams then went into a second group phase. This did not go as well for Argentina as they only managed a single point. This included a painful 2-1 defeat to rivals Brazil.

ARGENTINA 1978
In 1978 Argentina themselves hosted the world cup. There were several controversies surrounding this edition of the world cup. These included a military coup in Argentina two years previous which nearly caused other nations to withdraw. There was also an apparent deal struck between Argentina and Peru to allow the host nation to win by more than four goals. Whether this is true or not history will tell us that the Argentina national football team won their first ever world cup, on home soil. In the first group stage Argentina and Italy both won their two opening fixtures which meant when the teams met, the result did not affect who qualified. After losing to Italy the team finished second and were placed in the second round group alongside old rivals Brazil. After both teams won their opening fixtures and drew with each other, it would come down to goal difference to decide who was to make it to the final. As Argentina were playing after Brazil they would know how many goals they needed. Needing four they beat Peru by six goals to nil. In the final they met the Netherlands where they needed extra-time to beat them 3-1.

SPAIN 1982
The world cup in 1982 was the first time the competition expanded from 16 to 24 teams. The format of the tournament had also adapted. There were still two group phases but now separate one off fixtures for them semi-finals. The Argentina national football team did not begin their defence well as they lost 1-0 to Belgium. The side recovered to win there last two group fixtures to progress in second place. Their second round group contained themselves, Italy and Brazil. The side lost both games and were eliminated, although Italy did go on to lift the trophy.

MEXICO 1986

Read More: http://www.completesportsnigeria.com/blog/2013/12/focus-on-nigerias-world-cup-rivals

The ongoing 2013/14 football season has not been too rewarding, yet, for Nigerian strikers plying their trade in the tough English Premier League, as they have been experiencing goals drought.

A check on Nigerian players in the EPL reveal that aside John Mikel Obi who is a midfielder with Chelsea, the remaining five comprising of the Ameobi brothers - Shola and Sammy with Newcastle, Cardiff City’s Osaze Odemwingie, Victor Anichebe of West Bromwich Albion and Victor Moses of Liverpool are attackers.

As things stand, almost all of the above-listed forwards have one thing in common. Aside Sammy Ameobi who is yet to score a goal in the 5 games he has played this season, the rest all have just ONE goal to their credit in numerous games they have featured for their respective clubs.

In other words, the combined goalscoring efforts of Ameobi (in 10 games), Odemwingie (in 12 games), Anichebe (in 10 games) and Moses (in 11 games) have fetched a cumulative of FOUR goals only (in 43 matches combined) so far in the EPL.

Meanwhile, the leading scorer in the EPL, Liverpool’s Luiz Suarez currently has 17 goals to his credit followed by Manchester City’s Sergio Aguero with 13 strikes so far.

Source: http://www.completesportsnigeria.com/blog/2013/12/epl-nigerian-strikers-struggle-to-score-goals

--FIFA U-17 World Cup MVP leaves Eagles camp for Manchester

Kelechi Iheanacho has been granted permission to leave the Super Eagles camp in Abuja to enable him finalise a move to English giants Manchester City.

Stephen Keshi released the young midfield maestro to his representatives after his family put in a call to the Super Eagles coach, asking that Iheanacho be permitted to exit camp to make a quick trip to England where he is expected to sign for City.

“Initially a young man came declaring that he was the agent of Iheanacho, but I declined to deal with him until I hear from the family because the boy is still a minor,” Keshi said.

“It was soon after my rejection that I got a call from his father who told me that they have gotten travelling visa to the United Kingdom and that I should oblige him with his son’s release.

“I did and told the young man to go and do the nation proud at whichever club he finally chooses to settle down with.”

Keshi went on to acknowledge the great potentials if the youngster, and warned against piling too much pressure on the FIFA U-17 World Cup's Most Valuable Player. The former coach of Mali and Togo advised Iheanacho's representatives to handle the career of the youngster gently and professionally

Source: http://www.completesportsnigeria.com/news/2013/12/iheanacho-off-to-man-city

Man. City(ENG) v Barcelona (ESP)
Olympiacos (GRE) v Man. United (ENG)
Milan (ITA) v Atlético (ESP)
Leverkusen (GER) v Paris (FRA)
Galatasaray (TUR) v Chelsea (ENG)
Schalke (GER) v Real Madrid (ESP)
Zenit (RUS) v Dortmund (GER)
Arsenal (ENG) v Bayern (GER)

Source: http://completesportsnigeria.com/news/2013/12/ucl-round-of-16

Super Eagles defender,Kenneth Omeruo says he and his colleagues are not scared of which teams they get tomorrow at the draw for next year's World Cup in Brazil,insisting they are good enough to play agaist the so-called big teams.

"We don't mind who we get in the draw. We've shown we can play well against the best teams," he said adding that the team that will be returning to Brazil next year will be better than the one competed at the FIFA Confederation Cup last June.

Nigeria failed to get past the group stage last June at the FIFA Confederations Cup but Omeruo is confident the team will go as far as the semi-final this year and possibly come back with a World Cup medal.

"Our aim with Nigeria is to get to the semi-finals in Brazil and try to win something," Omeruo told the BBC.

Read More: http://www.completesportsnigeria.com/news/2013/12/omeruo-were-not-scared-of-brazil-spain

– Guess What, It’s Round

Balls to Brazil. Literally. Revolutionary – tick. Pioneering – tick. And most crucially of all: round – tick.
Yes the Brazuca, the 2014 World Cup ball, has been launched by makers adidas to the expected fanfare in Parque Lage, Rio de Janeiro – the city which will host next summer’s final.

The key is that World Cup organisers have again gone for a round, ball-like structure which has proved popular at previous tournaments.

Rumours of a square or oblong ball were wide of the mark and thankfully the world’s best footballers should find it easy enough to get grips with the Brazuca.

The ball was so named after a public vote by hosts Brazil, and the word means ‘Brazilian’ or the Brazilian way of life.

nice and round, the Brazuca went through a stringent testing process over two and a half years (seriously) and involving more than 600 of the world’s top players and 30 teams in ten countries across three continents.
Samba star Dani Alves – he always likes to be referred to as this – said: ‘My first impression of Brazuca is of a ball that is fantastic and we’re going to have a lot of fun with it.’

But then, isn’t everything fun in Brazil?

World Cup-winning Spain captain Iker Casillas said: ‘Brazuca has a stunning design that feels inspired by Brazil.’ Again, genius.

Source: http://www.completesportsnigeria.com/blog/2013/12/meet-the-brazuca-the-2014-world-cup-ball

Nigerian football chief refutes impostors' Claims that he needs cash bailout

The president of the Nigerian Football Federation has insisted his email account has been hacked amid claims he has been asking his friends for money.

In a statement made through the federation, Aminu Maigari says he realised today that his emails had been compromised and hackers sent a message to his contacts asking for cash while he was out of the country. Maigari went on to say ‘this is far from the truth’.

The NFF boss, who travels to Brazil tonight ahead of Friday’s 2014 World Cup draw, said he believes the email asking for cash to help him with a project he is working on was ‘the handiwork of fraudsters’.

African champions Nigeria were one of five teams from the continent to qualify for next year’s finals, along with Ivory Coast, Ghana, Cameroon and Algeria.

Source: http://www.completesportsnigeria.com/news/2013/12/maigari-my-emails-have-been-hacked

A British woman has appeared in court charged with conning thousands of pounds from Premiership footballers while working as their “lifestyle coach.”

Claire Duke, 38, is accused of defrauding high-profile clients – including Cardiff City FC striker Peter Odemwingie – out of more than £70,000 over a one year period.

It is alleged Duke received money for holidays and flights from clients but kept the money for herself.

She appeared at Cannock Magistrates’ Court in Staffordshire last Wednesday charged with five counts of fraud and one of theft.

Between September 1 last year and July 10 of this year she is accused of making a total of £71,106.83 fraudulently. Included in the charges is that while Duke was the lifestyle consultant of 32-year-old Odemwingie, she allegedly stole £15,437.67 by using his debit card.

Dressed smartly in a grey dress and black blazer, Duke spoke only to confirm her name and age in court.

Read More: http://www.completesportsnigeria.com/news/2013/11/british-woman-defrauds-osaze-odemwingie-of-pound70000

Top officials have told MTNFootball.com that the new Nigeria league season is most likely to kick off only after next year’s CHAN in South Africa.

The 2014 CHAN, which Nigeria have qualified for the very first time, will begin on January 11 and end on February 1.

Earlier proposals were that the league season will begin next month.

A row over the tenure of the League Management Board (LMC) and a new licensing agreement for clubs by the Confederation of African Football(CAF) are believed to have pushed behind the start of the new season.

An official said: “The new season will now most likely begin after the CHAN because there are several issues to be resolved, from the LMC tenure to the new licensing agreement by CAF.

“CAF, for one, have given a December 31 deadline for this agreement to be adhered to.”

The Annual General Assembly of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) will take place in Warri next week and these issues are expected to be addressed.

FIFA have already ordered that leagues across the world be rounded up before the June kick-off of the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.

A shortened league season from February will most likely mean that midweek matches will be played so as to meet up this FIFA deadline.

Last season ended in October with Kano Pillars retaining the championship.

Kano Pillars are the defending champions and will along with last season’s runners-up Enyimba represent Nigeria in next year’s CAF Champions League.

Source: http://www.completesportsnigeria.com/blog/2013/11/nigeria-league-season-kicks-off-after-chan

Vincent Enyeama has proved his invinciblity in the goal post and has not conceded a goal in 8 games with his French side, Lille.

That record will be further put to test when hostlities resume in the French Ligue 1 after the international break.

Lille host Toulouse today at the Toulouse who are 15th on the log have scored 11 goals and conceded 19 after 13 rounds of matches this season.

They don't look like a side capable of beating Enyeama and his teammates, but it is important the Nigerian prevents them from scoring to help steer his side to victory.

Enyeama kept a clean slate for Nigeria in the game against Ethiopia and Italy, proving a hard nut to crack for the likes of Mario Balotelli, Andrea Pirlo, Allesandro Diamanti and Salahdin Said.
Aside his record, the former Enyimba shot stopper,has conceded only four goals in 15 games in the Ligue 1 this season.

His impressive showing in between the sticks has also helped Lille to second place on the log,five points behind big spending Paris Saint Germain and a place ahead another big spending side,Monaco.

Source; http://www.completesportsnigeria.com/news/2013/11/enyeama-looks-to-preserve-cleansheet-record

By Nnamdi Ezekute:

Super Eagles striker, Shola Ameobi has been hailed as an admirable personality off the pitch, so much so that his Newcastle coach Alan Pardew believes he has the intelligence and aura to go all the way and become a Prime Minister after retiring from football, reports Completesportsnigeria.com

Top British tabloid, The Telegraph, has quoted Pardew as saying, in glowing terms, that Shola is endowed with such intelligence and admirable personality well above an average Premier League footballer, and Newcastle have benefitted immensely from such rare qualities.

According to The Telegraph, Pardew believes Ameobi is so clever that he could become a very successful man with another life outside football, especially if he decides to make a new career in politics.

“Most times footballers are put into this category where they’re not particularly bright,” said Pardew. “They’ve not really got a personality you would aspire too, well Shola is the complete opposite.

"You could put him in any environment, any school, any political field and he could hold his own. It is that intelligence that he brings to the dressing room.

“I don’t know what will happen with Shola in the future, he could become Prime Minister one day with his personality,” Pardew states.

The Telegragh emphasizes: "Ameobi has become the club’s elder statesman after 14 years there and has helped to pull together a divided dressing room that last season almost cost the club its Premier League status."

Ameobi, 32, switched his international football allegiance to Nigeria this year, and he is now working hard and hoping to make Stephen Keshi's squad to Brazil 2014 FIFA World Cup.

His current contract with Newcastle runs out at the end of this season. Whether or not the club will negotiate an extension of his contract is an issue of conjecture.

Cross River State Governor Liyel Imoke has pledged houses for players and officials of the victorious Golden Eaglets.

The houses are to be located within the state's new housing estate scheme in Akpabuyo in Calabar.

The Governor informed his ecstatic guests during a special session held on their behalf inside the council chamber at the Governor's office Friday night with the full complement of the state's executivecommittee including Deputy Governor Efiok Cobham in attendance.

Governor Imoke said it was necessary to break away from the norm in order to give a befitting future to the players as well as their officials hence the state's was duty-bound in rewarding the team with properties instead of monetary largesse.

"I'm not going to announce any largesse to you, rather we are going to give players and officials of the team a befitting property in our new housing scheme where work is already ongoing," the Governor said amidst shouts of Yes! Yes!! Yes!!!

"We want to partner and invest in you because we believe this kind of investment would yield better dividends in the future even if you no longer want anything to do with football."

Read More: http://completesportsnigeria.com/blog/2013/11/eaglets-get-houses-in-calabar

Imo State Governor Rochas Okorocha has rewarded the members of FIFA U17 World Champions, Golden Eaglets who are from the state.

Governor Okorocha announced a cash donation of 2 million Naira to the assistant coach, Emmanuel Amuneke, and a million Naira each to Kelechi Iheanacho, Chidiebere Nwakali, Chidera Ezeh and Odinaka Uzoho.

He also announced the donation of parcel of land to each of them at a choice area in Owerri as well as scholarship award to university level.

He further announced their enlistment for the awards of highest honours in the Imo Merit Award instituted by the State government to honour citizens who have excelled in their different fields of endeavour.

He noted that the boys have written their names in gold by displaying skills, spirit of resilience and excellence which Imo people are known for and charged other youths in the State to follow the path of honour rather than engaging in criminal acts that can endanger their future.

The players and coach were treated to a rousing reception by the government and the people of Imo State as they were received at the Sam Mbakwe Airport and their convoy waded through the major streets of Owerri to the Government House, where they were again warmly received.

Source: www.completesportsnigeria.com

Chelsea defender Kenneth Omeruo is set to reclaim his place in the Eagles starting XI against Ethiopia today in Calabar.

Omeruo has been sidelined by a shoulder injury, which he suffered at the FIFA Confederations Cup in Brazil, and Warri Wolves skipper Azubuike Egwuekwe has deputised in his absence.

The 20-year-old Omeruo partnered Godfrey Oboabona when Nigeria won a third AFCON title in February.

Omeruo's change will effectively mean, Nigeria will start with an all-Europe-based cast.
Otherwise, it will be a familiar Eagles line-up by Keshi.

Stand-in skipper Vincent Enyeama, who has posted 11 clean sheets for his French Lique 1 side Lille this season, will retain his number 1 shirt against Ethiopia.

Full back positions will be manned by Celtic utility player Efe Ambrose and Elderson Echiejile.
Ogenyi Onazi will pair Mikel Obi in the heart of the midfield while Victor Moses and Ahmed Musa will take charge of the wings.

Emmanuel Emenike will again be given the license to shoot down Ethiopia, while Dynamo Kiev striker Brown Ideye will most likely combine with him in the attack.

Read More: Chelsea defender Kenneth Omeruo is set to reclaim his place in the Eagles starting XI against Ethiopia today in Calabar.

Omeruo has been sidelined by a shoulder injury, which he suffered at the FIFA Confederations Cup in Brazil, and Warri Wolves skipper Azubuike Egwuekwe has deputised in his absence.

The 20-year-old Omeruo partnered Godfrey Oboabona when Nigeria won a third AFCON title in February.

Omeruo's change will effectively mean, Nigeria will start with an all-Europe-based cast.
Otherwise, it will be a familiar Eagles line-up by Keshi.

Stand-in skipper Vincent Enyeama, who has posted 11 clean sheets for his French Lique 1 side Lille this season, will retain his number 1 shirt against Ethiopia.

Full back positions will be manned by Celtic utility player Efe Ambrose and Elderson Echiejile.
Ogenyi Onazi will pair Mikel Obi in the heart of the midfield while Victor Moses and Ahmed Musa will take charge of the wings.

Emmanuel Emenike will again be given the license to shoot down Ethiopia, while Dynamo Kiev striker Brown Ideye will most likely combine with him in the attack.

Read More: http://completesportsnigeria.com/blog/2013/11/omeruo-reclaims-eagles-shirt