2018 World Cup: Nigeria media man Toyin Ibitoye feels the cold in outrageous hat at draw



Toyin Ibitoye stood out from the dignitaries at the draw in Russia 2018
IT was around 37 degrees Celsius in the Nigerian capital of Abuja when the World Cup draw took place.


And it left Nigeria's media officer Toyin Ibitoye feeling the bite of a Russian winter at ZERO degrees Celsius in Moscow.

The sports media personality was pictured arriving at the State Cremlin Palace for World Cup 2018 draw wearing an outrageous furry hat.

Replying to a Tweet with a the picture, Ibitoye said: "Ol' boy, it was drizzling snow."

The draw threw up a nightmare group for the Super Eagles.

They will face Argentina, Iceland and Croatia in Group D throughout an 11-day period in June.

Although the cities of Kaliningrad, Volgograd and Saint Petersburg should be around 20 degrees warmer by June.

It is the FIFTH time in just six World Cups that Nigeria have qualified for that tthey have been drawn against Argentina in the group stage.

And they have incredibly been drawn against each other in each the last THREE World Cups.

The Super Eagles will be hoping for a change of fortune at Russia 2018.

They have lost the last four World Cup games between the sides.

http://mobile.ghanasoccernet.com/2018-world-cup-nigeria-media-man-toyin-ibitoye-feels-the-cold-in-outrageous-hat-at-draw

Abdullahi Upbeat Nigeria Have Top Players, Coach To Face ‘Competitive Group D’



‎‎By James Agberebi:

Nigeria defender, Shehu Abdullahi, is confident that with the present crop of players in the Super Eagles, Nigeria will excel in the Group D of the Russia 2018 World Cup, Completesportsnigeria.com reports.


The Super Eagles were drawn in Group D along with Argentina, Iceland who will be debuting at the World Cup and Croatia in the Fiday’s final draw at the Kremlin Palace in Moscow, Russia.


Abdullahi who played a key role in the Super Eagles qualifying for the World Cup, expresses firm confidence in the ability of Nigeria coach, Gernot Rohr, but however admits Group D would be tough.


“Our group is competitive, challenging and demanding. We have players in a very good moments and the coach is very detailed. Bring on the World Cup, we are ready!


“Nigerians be our 12th man in every game,” Abdullahi wrote on his Twitter handle.

https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/abdullahi-upbeat-nigeria-top-players-coach-face-competitive-group-d/

Ndidi Stars, Iheanacho Benched In Leicester Victory; Liverpool, Stoke, Everton Win

Peter Oriaku

By Johnny Edward:

Nigeria midfielder Wilfred Ndidi made his 15th English Premier League start for Leicester City this season as they recorded a 1-0 win over Burnley at the King Power Stadium on Saturday.


Demarai Gray gave Leicester City the win with a sixth minute goal, poking in Riyad Mahrez’s cross-from the right flank. It was Gray’s second goal of the season in his 15th appearance.


The game was Ndidi’s 32nd EPL start for the club since he joined last January from Genk.


Super Eagles forward Kelechi Iheanacho was an unused substitute in the encounter. Iheanacho has made two starts and seven substitute appearances for the Foxes this season. As usual, Ahmed Musa was not in the matchday squad.


The win was the Foxes’ fifth of the campaign.

At the Amex Stadium, Liverpool defeated Brighton 5-1. Two goals in 79 seconds from Emre Can and Roberto Firmino gave Liverpool a 2-0 half time lead after a dominant display. Can scored first with a thumping header from a Phillipe Coutinho cross in the 30th minute before Firmino finished off a blistering counter attack.


Firmino made it 3-0 two minutes after the restart but Glenn Murray pulled one back from the spot for Brighton after he was fouled by Jordan Henderson. Coutinho made it 4-1 five minutes from time, firing in a low free-kick before an own-goal from Lewis Dunk sealed an emphatic win for Liverpool ahead of the Merseyside derby next week. It was Liverpool’s fifth win in six EPL games this season.


At the Bet365 Stadium, Stoke came from a goal down to defeat Swansea 2-1. Wilfred Bony bagged the opener for Swansea with a lovely first-time volley beyond Jack Butland in goal for Stoke City off a cross from Martin Olsson.


Stoke levelled scores in the 36th minute through Xherdan Shaqiri. The Potters went ahead for the first time four minutes later through Biram Diouf who fired in Peter Crouch’s knock-on pass in the box. The defeat was Swansea’s 10th of the season as they dropped to 20th in the log after they suffered their sixth loss in seven EPL games.



At Vicarage Road, Nigerian forward Isaac Success was not included in Watford’s squad that played out a 1-1 draw at home with 10-man Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday. Belgian defender Christian Kabasele scored his first goal for the club heading in a Tom Cleverley corner in the 13th minute but Heung-Min Son restored parity in the 25th minute, tapping in Christian Erickson’s cross.


Abdoulaye Doucoure could have made it 2-1 in the 56th minute but his 30 yards strike cannoned off the the post. The draw means Tottenham are without a win in their last four league games.


At Goodison Park Sam Allardyce began his reign as Everton manager with a 2-0 home win over Huddersfield Town.


After a dull first half, Gylfi Sigurdsson struck 90 seconds into the second half from close range to bag his second goal in three games for the Toffees, before Dominic Calvert-Lewin secured the points after tucking away Wayne Rooney’s pass in the 73rd minute. The win moved Everton to 10th in the EPL table.


Also at the Hawthorns, Alan Pardew kicked off his career as manager of West Brom with a goalless draw at home to over his former team Crystal Palace.


ENGLISH PREMIER LEAGUE RESULTS FOR MATCH DAY 15

Chelsea 3 – 1 Newcastle United

Brighton & Hove Albion 1 – 5 Liverpool

Everton 2 – 0 Huddersfield Town
Leicester City 1 – 0 Burnley

Stoke City 2 – 1 Swansea City

Watford 1 – 1 Tottenham Hotspur

West Bromwich Albion 0 – 0 Crystal Palace

https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/ndidi-stars-iheanacho-benched-leicester-victory-liverpool-stoke-everton-win/amp/

Moses Posts Five-Star Performance, Hazard Shines As Chelsea Outclass Newcastle

Peter Oriaku

By James Agberebi:

Chelsea came from behind to defeat Newcastle 3-1 in the Premier League at Stamford Bridge on Saturday. Super Eagles forward Victor Moses made his first start for Chelsea since October 14 and provided the assist for his side’s second goal scored by Alvaro Morata.


Moses also had a hand in Chelsea’s third goal scored by Eden Hazard from the penalty spot after the Nigerian was fouled inside the box.


Dwight Gayle had given Newcastle a shock early lead before his goal was cancelled out by Hazard.


The win means Chelsea sit in third position on 32 points, eight points behind leaders Manchester City who will host West Ham on Sunday.


Newcastle had a strong start to the game and were rewarded in the 12th minute as Gayle pounced on a loose ball to put the visitors 1-0 up.


Chelsea went close to leveling the score in the 17th minute through Hazard whose effort was kept out by Karl Darlow.


In the 21st minute, Chelsea equalised thanks to Hazard who got to a loose ball before hitting a low shot into the back of the net.


Chelsea continued to dominate after leveling the score and unsurprisingly went 2-1 up on 33 minutes as Morata headed in Moses’ cross.


Four minutes later Danny Drinkwater almost extended Chelsea’s lead only to see his shot from outside curl away from target.


Two minutes into the second half Moses’ dangerous cross almost resulted into an own goal by Chancel Mbemba but luckily his clearance went just over the bar.


Newcastle went close following a dangerous cross by Jacob Murphy which went away from the back post and to safety.


Hazard should have had his second goal of the game but his shot deflected off Ciaran Clark and flew off target.


In the 67th minute Moses had a chance to get on the score sheet but his header was claimed by Darlow.


Chelsea went 3-1 up in the 74th minute as Hazard converted from the penalty spot after Moses was fouled inside the box by Matt Richie.


Hazard was unlucky not to bag a hat-trick as he was denied on 76 minutes by Darlow who rushed out to block the Belgian.


In the 85th minute, Moses almost marked his return to Chelsea’s first team with a goal only to see his goal bound effort blocked after Marcos Alonso’s initial shot was saved.

https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.completesportsnigeria.com/moses-posts-five-star-performance-hazard-shines-chelsea-outclass-newcastle/amp/

ROAD TO RUSSIA: 10 Players Who Could Miss Super Eagles World Cup Party

Usenekong

As Nigeria’s preparations for the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia continue, some players who have been part of the squad could miss out of the main show next year.


Completesportsnigeria.com’s JOHNNY EDWARD picks out 10 Super Eagles players who could be watching the Russia 2018 World Cup action from their couches next summer if they do not step up their game…


1. AHMED MUSA

Both with the Super Eagles and at club level with Leicester City, Ahmed Musa has lost his place in the first team squad and it will take more than his experience with the Super Eagles and his blistering pace on the flanks to earn him a seat on the flight to Russia with Gernot Rohr’s squad.


Musa has found game time hard to come by at club level and Leicester City’s new manager Claude Puel has even said he does not know what the former CSKA Moscow winger still has a future at the King Power Stadium. The January transfer window will offer Musa a route to seek first team action elsewhere to compete for a place in the Super Eagles star-studded attack for the World Cup.


2. BROWN IDEYE

Since providing that assist for Kelechi Iheanacho to score his first goal in the World Cup qualifier against Zambia in Ndola, Brown Ideye has been on the fringes and is now on the verge of missing out on the World Cup party in Russia.


The Tianjin TEDA striker was sensationally dropped from the preliminary squad for the 2014 World Cup but earned a recall to the team two years later, featuring in three games (against Mali, Luxembourg and Zambia).


Ideye scored four goals in 14 games in the Chinese Super League but his fallout with former coach Lee Lim-Saeng saw him demoted to the reserves where he barely featured.


A move back to Europe coupled with some brilliant performances could convince the handlers, who are still in search of a back-up striker for Odion Ighalo, that he (Ideye) deserves a place at least in the preliminary squad.



DANIEL AKPEYI

He is considered to be the second choice goalkeeper after Carl Ikeme but Daniel Akpeyi has failed to impress with his performances and also failed to take his chance when called up to man the sticks for the Super Eagles.


The Chippa United goalkeeper may battle with Dele Alampasu and possibly Dele Aiyenugba if invited for the final goalkeeper slot.
Francis Uzoho and Ikechukwu Ezenwa look certain to make the list.


4. UCHE AGBO

The Standard Liege defender has not featured for the Super Eagles since he has been called up to the squad a year ago. That underlines how he is regarded.


Despite featuring regularly in the Belgian Jupiler League, breaking into the first team squad of the national remains a tough task for Agbo and that could ruin his chances ahead of the World Cup.


5. KENNETH OMERUO

The Kasimpasa defender lost his place in the heart of the Super Eagles defence and had not been considered until he was called in as a replacement for the injured Ogenyi Onazi for the last two games.


Omeruo’s performance against Argentina in a 3-5-2 formation was solid. With coach Gernot Rohr already satisfied with the trio of William Troost-Ekong, Leon Balogun and Chidozie Awaziem the battle for the final place for a centre half will be between Agbo and the 2013 African Cup of Nations winner, Omeruo.



Kenneth Omeruo in action for Super Eagles.
6. HENRY ONYEKURU

Despite his rich vein of scoring form for Anderlecht, Henry Onyekuru may be left out of the Super Eagles final squad for the World Cup in Russia.

This is because of the quality of players he is up against in his position.


The 20-year-old will compete with the likes of Victor Moses, Alex Iwobi, Moses Simon, Kelechi Iheanacho, Ahmed Musa, Odion Ighalo, Anthony Nwakaeme and Kayode Olanrewaju for spots in the attack. And with Onyekuru not getting enough playing time to showcase his talent with the Super Eagles, Gernot Rohr may not take a gamble on him.


7. KAYODE OLANREWAJU

Since he signed up for Manchester City and was shipped out on loaned to Girona in Spain, Kayode Olanrewaju has failed to hit the ground running in terms of goals in LaLiga.


Olanrewaju has only seen 12 minutes of international action since he made his debut for the Super Eagles in their 2-0 loss to South Africa in a 2019 African Cup of Nations qualifier.


Odion Ighalo is the Eagles first choice striker for the World Cup barring injuries so Olanrewaju still has the likes of Kelechi Iheanacho and Anthony Nwakaeme to contend with.


8. MIKEL AGU

Mikel Agu has made four substitute appearances for the Super Eagles since he made his debut in June against South Africa and has not been convincing in those games. With John Ogu’s performance in the two games against Algeria and Argentina, in that same role, the Bursaspor defensive midfielder’s place in the World Cup squad is under threat.


9. OGHENEKARO ETEBO

Since he shone in Nigeria’s 3-1 win over Algeria in Uyo, Oghenekaro Etebo has struggled to replicate the form that saw him make the headlines.


Etebo possesses a great bursr of pace that can power any midfield but will that be enough to displace his captain, Mikel Obi? No. He got his chance to play himself back into reckoning against Algeria but Etebo looked lost playing in the advanced midfield role.


10. ISAAC SUCCESS

If fit Isaac Success is one forward who would give Odion Ighalo a good fight in the striking role. But the Watford star who has been ruled out until he new year is not likely to make the Super Eagles preliminary squad.

https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/road-russia-10-players-miss-super-eagles-world-cup-party/amp/

Leicester Boss Puel: Why Iheanacho Missed Spurs Clash

Peter Oriaku
2 days ago

By Johnny Edward:

Leicester City manager Claude Puel has revealed that Nigerian forward Kelechi Iheanacho was left out of the club’s 2-1 Premier League win over Tottenham Hotspur due to illness but he hopes the 21 year old recover timely to face Burnley on Saturday Completesportsnigeria.com reports.


Iheanacho, who has made nine English Premier League appearances this season (two starts and seven substitute appearances) has been struggling to break in to the Leicester City starting line-up.


Burnley are currently sixth in the EPL after their 2-1 win away at Bournemouth on Wednesday while Leicester City moved up to ninth in the log after their win over Spurs.


“Iheanacho was ill but I hope he will be back,” Puel said during his pre-match conference on Thursday.


“We have to be careful. We can watch Burnley and they’re a different team to last season. The table doesn’t lie. With confidence, they are a strong and physical team. It’s a big challenge for us.”


Puel also revealed that aside from Robert Huth and Matt James he has a fit squad to face Burnley.

“There are no new injuries. Christian Fuchs will come back also to the squad but Huth and James are unavailable.

“I’m not just thinking about 11 players because we have to play one game every three days and it’s not possible to keep fresh. For the squad, it’s important to give game time to other players in the team.”


https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/leicester-boss-puel-iheanacho-missed-spurs-clash/amp/

Mujtahida:
Seems it has been decreed that we will not stop meeting Argentina unless we beat them. Now is the time.

We will stop meeting Argentina once our ranking improves.

junnyjake:



Ha! Na so you de do?

Where the soup now?

Have it here
www.nairaland.com/attachments/6346657_nyamtoho_jpeg404bb5080f32bb68257548c910040443

Ezenwa has got his fair share of games in the green white green. It's time to give other home based goalkeepers a chance in this coming Chan to see the stuff they are made of.

junnyjake:



Rorh knows what he's doing, there's no way he's taking Okoye to the WC.

He wants to lure him for the future.

Salutes

Enjoy this meal with sweet "Nyam toho""

solonnachi:
That juju that joins Nigeria with Argentina in every World cup is very strong. We should beat Croatia and Ireland, then draw Argentina

You must be joking bro. Croatia is the most dangerous team in that Group.

Nigeria tops the group
Croatia comes second.

Baba God please answer us.

Brace scored by Emmanuel Bonaventure Dennis in Lokeren 0-4 Club Brugge


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sjcyYyea-B4
Look at the first goal he scored.
The defender together with the goalkeeper managed to close up on him, yet he still had the confidence to slot the ball pass the goalkeeper in between his legs.

This guy can become a deadly striker.


Will he be eligible to play for the next U20?

Russianruble:


Madam you know nothing about football
Go back to the kitchen where you belong and once you are done cooking, come to the other room and please me as I wish this is place is meant for men okay? Keep the place moist I will cum soon.

I don't know if I am to ignore your post or call you to order.

But I must let you understand one thing.

One thing I wish to let you understand is that. This thread is for the matured minds and not for the light weight minds.

Your post depict immaturity and too much ignorance.

You owe this thread responsible contributions that are devoid of what you have just displayed above.
Thank you.

safarigirl:
agaonst Zambia, i suppose it was your Obagoal that scored the second goal, abi?

How many goals does Martins have for us in how many games? So, we should drop a prolific Kelechi who has scored against both mediocre and top opposition, in both competitive and friendly games, both from inside the box, outside the box, spot kicks and in open play and invite Martins and his gra gra football, abi?

Kelechi that breathed life into the team with a superb free kick when it looked like Argentina would roast us? And need I mention his assists as well? Minus his 8 goals in 14 games, when you include Kelechi's ASSISTS, you will find he has been involved in our goals almost as much as Mikel has, even with less playing time. How many assists does Martins have? Or you think it is ghosts that will create chances?


There is a reason why you people are called armchair analysts.

Safarigirl you know what?










You are wicked
Lol

VIDEO: INIESTA WELCOMES NIGERIA TO RUSSIA 2018, AS MIKEL DOES THE SAME TO COSTA RICA

BY BOLAJI OKUNOLA.

Team captains of the 32 countries that have qualified for the World Cup have taken time to say a sentence of welcome to one of chosen fellow qualifiers. It was a special package that FIFA.com organized.


From Russia star, Fyodor Smolov to Jefferson Farfan, who booked the last World Cup spot with Peru, the players – speaking in the order in which their teams qualified – recorded the following statement, the first part in their mother tongue and the second in the language of the team being congratulated:


“Congratulations (name of country) – see you in Russia”
This way, Spain’s Andre Iniesta whose added time goal won his country the 2010 title, directed his words of welcome in Spanish to Nigeria. He was number 11 as Spain was the 11thcountry to qualify and therefore congratulated the next qualified team, Nigeria.


Mikel Obi whose Nigerian team was the 12thqualifier, congratulated the 13thqualifier, Costa Rica. Both teams qualified on the same day – October 7.


The video features a mosaic of languages and includes, among others, Neymar doing his best to speak Farsi, Robert Lewandowski congratulating Egypt in Arabic and Egyptian midfielder Mohamed Elneny giving a good account of himself in Icelandic.


According to FIFA.com, the 32 players all have one thing in common as they are heading to the FIFA World Cup.

www.sportsvillagesquare.com/2017/11/30/video-iniesta-welcomes-nigeria-russia-2018-mikel-costa-rica/

AF Nigeria 2018 FIFA World Cup - Russia Nigeria
World Cup winner Desailly backs Nigeria ahead 2018 finals


Marcel Desailly

by Austin Ditlhobolo

Legendary French midfielder Marcel Desailly has tipped Nigeria to be one of the surprise teams at the 2018 FIFA World Cup.


However, the former Chelsea FC and AC Milan player has rued the absence of Nigeria's rivals Ghana from next year's World Cup which will be hosted by Russia.


Desailly, who was born in Accra, Ghana, decided to play for France during his playing career and he enjoyed a lot of success with the European side.


The retired defender-cum-midfielder was part of the France team that won the 1998 FIFA World Cup, 2000 UEFA European Championship, and FIFA Confederation Cup twice in 2001, and 2003.


''My native Ghana did not get into the final part," Desailly told Sport Express Russia.


"This is my spiritual wound. But other African teams are able to surprise.


''And Nigeria , which has a strong squad, and the Arab countries - Tunisia, Egypt," the 49-year-old continued.


"Perhaps, the moment has come when a team from Africa will finally reach the semifinals.''


The draw for the 2018 FIFA World Cup finals will be conducted on Friday.

africanfootball.com/news/736073/World-Cup-winner-Desailly-backs-Nigeria-ahead-2018-finals

AF Nigeria 2018 FIFA World Cup - Russia
Obafemi Martins likely to return to Nigeria squad


Eagles striker Obafemi Martins against Swaziland in Lobambo
by Phumzile Ngcatshe

Nigerian national team scout Victor Agali has hinted that striker Obafemi Martins and midfielder Joel Obi could make their return to the Super Eagles squad.


Igali has warned the team's fans not to be surprised if the duo is called up by coach Gernot Rohr for their games next year.


Martins ended the season in spectacular form for Chinese Cup winners Shanghai Shenhua, whilst Obi has impressed Rohr with his displays for Italian side Torino.


Their form has caught the attention of Rohr, and according to Agali, the duo are set for a recall to the team next year, but they have to keep ‎working hard.


“All players who are currently performing to expectation in their respective club sides have equal chance," Agali said to Sportsvillagesquare.


"The coach {Rohr] is a disciplinarian who welcomes players based on merit.


“Don’t be surprised to see the likes of in-form Obafemi Martins, Joel Obi and others returning to the team, and I myself won’t hesitate to scout for more legs that will help maintain the good form.”

africanfootball.com/news/736053/Obafemi-Martins-likely-to-return-to-Nigeria-squad

AF
Nigeria’s best and worst case draw scenarios



Nigeria midfielder John Obi Mikel
by Scent ition

Ahead of tomorrow’s draw for the 2018 World Cup, AfricanFootball looks at both the best and worst case group stage scenarios for Nigeria’s Super Eagles.


Which pot are Nigeria in?
The Super Eagles are in Pot 4 because their world ranking in October (41) put them amongst the eight lowest-rated teams to qualify for Russia 2018.


Which teams can they be drawn against?
- One of the teams in Pot 1: Russia, Germany, Brazil, Portugal, Argentina, Belgium, Poland and France

- One of the teams in Pot 2: Spain, Peru, Switzerland, England, Colombia, Mexico, Uruguay and Croatia

- One of the following teams in Pot 3: Denmark, Iceland, Costa Rica, Sweden, Iran


Which teams can they not be drawn against?
All of the other teams in Pot 4 - Morocco, Serbia, Australia, Japan, Panama, South Korea and Saudi Arabia - as well as the three Africans teams in Pot 3: Tunisia, Egypt and Senegal.


What’s their best-case scenario?
From Pot 1, Nigeria will want to draw Russia. The 2018 hosts are easily the weakest team in that pool. Short of getting the home side, Belgium and Poland are probably a touch overrated and have traditionally struggled at big tournaments.


From Pot 2 they’ll want to draw Peru, who haven’t been to the World Cup since 1982, or one of England, Switzerland or Croatia - they’re all fine teams, but not as powerful and dangerous as the likes of Spain, Uruguay and Mexico.


From Pot 3 the Super Eagles will want to draw Iceland, who are making their tournament debut and have overachieved just by qualifying. But in truth, none of the other teams from Pot 3 are particularly strong.


Summary: Russia, Peru and Iceland for Nigeria’s dream group draw.


And their worst?
It couldn’t get much worse than drawing reigning world champions Germany from Pot 1, 2010 winners Spain from Pot 2 and then Costa Rica from Pot 3 (because you can only have two European teams in a group).


Or how about Brazil from Pot 1, Spain from Pot 2 and Denmark from Pot 3? Either way, that’s about as bad as it can get for Nigeria.


Summary: Germany, Spain and Costa Rica, or Brazil, Spain and Denmark - either would represent the worst case for the Super Eagles.

africanfootball.com/news/736091/Nigerias-best-and-worst-case-draw-scenarios

Eguavoen: Top World Cup Teams Are Scared Of Drawing Super Eagles

Peter Oriaku

By Bamidele Boluwaji:

Former Nigeria coach Austin Eguavoen has told Complete Sports that big countries are scared of the Super Eagles ahead of the FIFA World Cup draw coming up on Friday in Moscow, Russia.


Eguavoen who led the Super Eagles to the 2006 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt said the exploits of Nigeria during the qualifiers have reawakened interest in the coach Gernot Rohr-led team.


Nigeria finished the qualifiers unbeaten and was the first African country to qualify for the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia after their 1-0 win over Chipolopolo of Zambia in Uyo in October.


“I think we should just focus on a good draw because I have read many reports suggesting that Nigeria is likely to play some big names and that has caused a kind of panic to some people. But I want to tell you today that some of these big name teams are scared of the Super Eagles,” Eguavoen, who represented Nigeria at the country’s first World Cup in 1994, told Completesportsnigeria.com.


“Being the first African country to qualify for the World Cup and playing all the qualifying matches without a single defeat showed that we have a good team and that has reawakened the interest of other countries in Nigeria.


“As I speak with you, I am sure some coaches will be saying they don’t want to play Nigeria in the first round but as a coach, I believe preparation is key to any opponent you want to play.


“The boys and the coaches need the best of support they can get from the NFF, government, journalists and supporters.


“My prayer is for the Super Eagles to be in the group that will be easy for them to qualify.”

completesportsnigeria.com

Maradona has big plans for Nigerian striker Danjuma Ademola Kuti

By admin - November 29, 2017, 4:22 pm


Danjuma Ademola Kuti with the great Maradona, who is his coach in UAE.


World football icon Diego Armando Maradona has big plans for young Nigerian striker Danjuma Ademola Kuti at UAE club Fujairah FC.


Maradona has picked special interest in the 19-year-old Kuti, who only recently moved to the UAE, and has even brought him to train with the senior side.


A statement by the U.A.E Sports Agency which SCORENigeria received revealed that Maradona has been most impressed by how prolific the striker has been.


Presently young giant Kuti is the leading scorer of the youth team, who top the UAE Youth league table.


Last season, the youth team were crowned champions of the U19 league after Kuti put them ahead by scoring the only goal in a keenly contested match against Al Wasl F.C.


The legendary Maradona now wants Kuti to join the first-team squad, but only two foreign players are allowed by the U.A.E.F.A and already Omar Kossoko from France and one other foreign player have been registered in the first division league competition.


Maradona is presently working to put the club at top of the league saddled with the task of ensuring Fujairah FC are promoted back to Asian Gulf league after relegation in 2015.


Fujairah won the right to be in the Emirati premier professional league (Asian Gulf League) at the end of the 2012–2013 season.


At the start of the 2014–2015 they began the first-ever match in the AGL, ending the season in April 2015 in 9th place.


http://scorenigeria.com.ng/2017/11/29/maradona-has-big-plans-for-nigerian-striker-danjuma-ademola-kuti/

Taliban:


Hmmmm another issue. Why take a player lacking match fitness to a tournament. In the same Olympics we lost etebo to injury, one of the issues I now have with 9ja coaches and my personal person mentality.

Remember most Clubs did not release the players Siasia wanted to use to prosecute the Olympic games.

tbaba1234:
Nwakaeme's brilliant goal and assist.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w-kSfuETH-M

Nwakaeme 1.5 vs 1 Martin

Let the debate begin

Kog45:
Yea you are right,to sit on the bench for Sadiq Umar should tell you his quality then but i don't know now may be he has improve considering his nomination for home African best.

Was nursing an injury.
He confined to the bench because he lacked match fitness.

goldfish80:
I'm starting to like the this Anderletch manager. If only Jay Jay Okocha had this kind of coach in his formative years, he'd have been on the Zinedine Zidane level.

I read one of the interviews of Jay Jay Okocha where he said the German racist made him become a bundle of skills and dribbles.

Michael Emenalo new AS Monaco sporting director

by AS MONACO



AS Monaco is delighted to announce the appointment of Michael Emenalo as new sporting director. He will take charge of all sport matters, under the authority of Vadim Vasilyev.


AS Monaco is delighted to announce the appointment of Michael Emenalo as new sporting director. He will take charge of all sport matters, under the authority of Vadim Vasilyev.


The former international player from Nigeria, 52 years old, has previously managed this position in Chelsea, where he was a key member.


During his time in London, Chelsea won three Premier League titles, three FA Cups, the League Cup, Europa League and of course, the Champions League in 2012.


In this period, the club signed key players such as Eden Hazard, Thibaut Courtois and N’Golo Kanté.


Michael Emenalo also assisted in driving the technical programmes of Chelsea Academy and international network, building one of the best academies and leading the U19 to win two times in a row the Youth League (2015, 2016).



Vadim Vasilyev, AS Monaco Vice President :
“ I have been following Michael Emenalo’s work for a long time and I am very happy to have him here after he chose to quit Chelsea.


His know-how in scouting network, as well as the technical skills he developed working in one of the most successful clubs in the world in the past few years, are the main reasons leading us to present him our ambitious challenge.


Through this appointment, it is a further sign that we are ambitious and competitive in our model. ”
Michael Emenalo, new AS Monaco sporting director :
“ It’s a wonderful opportunity for me in such a high quality project.


AS Monaco has shown a great evolution in the past few seasons and I am convinced that the club will keep being successful.
Vadim Vasilyev convinced me to join AS Monaco and I believe this is the right choice for me after my decision to leave Chelsea.


I will work here with humility and try my best to bring my experience in this club which is a reference of French and European football.

http://www.asmonaco.com/en/article/michael-emenalo-new-as-monaco-sporting-director-10938.html

20 Y/0 Nigerian Ace Wanted By Manchester United: Do They Really Need Him?



Manchester United scouts have been sent out to monitor the progress of on-loan Everton forward, Henry Onyekuru. The Toffees beat a whole of clubs to secure his services in the summer, before deciding to loan him out to Belgian champions, Anderlecht.
Since his move, he has scored seven goals in 14 appearances this season, which has attracted interest from some of the giants of European football.

HLN are now reporting that the Red Devils have been monitoring his progress and keeping a keen eye on his performance in the recent times.


The 21-year-old scored the winner in Anderlecht’s 2-1 win over R. Excel Mouscron away from home. His goal scoring efforts have helped his side to third place in the Belgian first division. The forward scored in the last ten minutes of the game, which handed Anderlecht all three points.

Anderlecht has played one more game than Belgian league leaders, Club Brugge with a tally of 28 points in 15 games this season.



There have also been reports suggesting that Everton might recall their £7m signing as they look to find some inspiration in front of goal. The Toffees have struggled to score enough goals this season, which has led to an early elimination from the Europa League and are currently in 16th place in the Premier League, just three points above the relegation zone.


The Daily Star are reporting that Premier League clubs, Southampton and Stoke City are also interested in the Nigerian. Dutch giants Ajax and PSV Eindhoven may also join in on the race for the midfielder.


The brilliant marksman was born in Onitsha, Nigeria and was part of the Aspire Academy in Qatar. He began his professional career at K.A.S. Eupen in 2015 where he scored 28 goals in 57 appearances.


The on-loan winger is highly versatile and can play in either flank or as a central forward. His current Everton contract runs until June 2022 so it is expected that if he does move in the near future, it would be for big money.


Onyekuru earned his first international cap recently when Nigeria were held to a 1-1 draw against Algeria in a World Cup qualifier. Nigeria boss, Gernot Rohr has high expectations of him and may include his name in the national squad for the 2018 Fifa World Cup in Russia next summer.


Manchester United started their campaign this season in emphatic fashion, scoring a plethora of goals in the first few matches. However, with the season progressing, the goals have dried up and they might need a genuine sharpshooter like Onyekuru to become a part of their lineup. Now, it remains to be seen whether he will indeed leave Goodison Park without having kicked a ball for the Toffees

http://the4thofficial.net/2017/11/long-term-arsenal-transfer-target-now-wanted-by-manchester-united-do-they-need-him/

Wilfred Ndidi Is Nigeria's Pass Master In The Premier League, Ahead Of Iwobi, Moses



Central midfielder Wilfred Ndidi is Nigeria's pass master in the English Premier League, having completed more passes than other Nigerians playing in the league, even his Leicester City teammates.

According to stats from the official website of the Premier League, Ndidi took his tally for the season to 600 after the Foxes 1-1 draw with West Ham on Friday.

The former Racing Genk star has made more passes than Harry Maguire (526), Danny Simpson (437), Christian Fuchs (434) and goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel (398).

Leicester City number eight Kelechi Iheanacho is sixteenth on the list with with 78 passes made in only 255 minutes of game time.

Arsenal winger Alex Iwobi is second on the list of Nigerian passers with 241 successful passes, while Chelsea wing-back Victor Moses comes third with 131 passes.

The top passers in the Premier League after thirteen matches are Fernandinho (1,141), David Silva (1,091) and Nicolás Otamendi (1,066).

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

http://www.allnigeriasoccer.com/read_news.php?nid=25603

PLAYER SPOTLIGHT: John Obi Mikel - Nigeria skipper criticised by academy founder


Mikel at his Chinese Club Tianjin Teda

With Nigeria captain John Obi Mikel no doubt looking forward to learning his side’s group stage opponents for the 2018 World Cup when the draw is held this coming Friday, he has been criticised by the founder of an academy he attended as a youngster.


Former Nigeria Football Federation technical director Kashimawo Laloko, who founded the Pepsi Football Academy at Agege Stadium in Lagos, believes Mikel - a product of the institution - has not done enough to give back to the youth in Nigerian football.


“Mikel was brought to limelight through our Jos centre around 1995 to 2002. We gave him the breakthrough that made Nigerians to know him,” Laloko is quoted by the Vanguard.


“He was unpolished when he came but we refined him. If not for us, maybe, he would not be where he is today but since he became a star, I have not heard that he visited the Jos centre to donate a pair of jersey to the players there. That is most unfair.


“Some former players give us money for the running of the centres but Mikel has not done such. Osaze is an example of a player who paid us because he recognised what we did for him.


“There was a time we wanted to use Mikel in a advertising campaign for the academy but he shunned us. His agent was asking us to pay a huge sum of money but Mr. Nelson could not believe it and that was how the deal fell through. I don’t think Mikel has done well for Nigerian youths.”


With Mikel currently enjoying the off season, following the completion of the Chinese Super League's 2017 campaign earlier this month, perhaps he'll make time to give back to those who helped his rise in the game.


https://africanfootball.com//news/735808/PLAYER-SPOTLIGHT-John-Obi-Mikel-Nigeria-skipper-criticised-by-academy-founder

Ikpeba Sets Quarter-Final World Cup Target For Super Eagles



By Kayode Ogundare:

As the countdown to the 2018 FIFA World Cup draws near, former Super Eagles forward Victor Ikpeba has insisted that the national team should be able to reach the quarter-finals next year in Russia.


Speaking in an interview with Lagos-based ChannelsTv, the 1997 African Footballer of the Year reckons that the gap between the big teams and the smaller ones has diminished considerably and this gives Nigeria the chance to surpass its previous Round of 16 achievement.


“I think a reasonable target will be a quarter-final spot becuase we have the players to do it. Three times now we have gotten to the second round and I think we have the best chance to move further than that with this current side,” he began.


Ikpeba reckoned that the class of 1994 could have gone all the way but for naivety and insists the current side is best-placed to break the second round barrier.


He said: “Given the quality of talent we had in 1994 and maybe 1998 too, we should have achieved more than we did but we now have the chance to set that right and I believe it is not an impossible task for the Super Eagles to achieve in Russia.”


Ikpeba, a member of the 1996 Atlanta Olympics gold-winning U-23 team, also played at two AFCONs winning a bronze and gold as well as two World Cup appearances. He had 19 caps for the Super Eagles, scoring five goals.


https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/ikpeba-sets-quarter-final-world-cup-target-super-eagles/

Onyekuru Prays For Easy World Cup Draw



By Adeboye Amosu: Super Eagles striker Henry Onyekuru is praying for a favourable draw for the team ahead of Friday’s draw ceremony for the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, Completesportsnigeria.com reports.

The Super Eagles have been placed in Pot 4, which is supposedly the weakest of the four pots.

Gernot Rohr’s charges face the prospect of coming up against heavyweights like Brazil, Argentina, Germany, Belgium, Spain and other big guns in the group stage of the global fiesta.


The anxiety is already building among the fans in the country with few days to the draw and the forward is hopeful they will avoid the difficult opponents in their group.

“Everyone is excited that the World Cup draw is around the corner and I pray that we get an easy group,” the Anderlecht striker told Completesportsnigeria.com from his Belgium base.


“All the other countries will be praying for same too, but I hope the god of soccer will smile on us.

“Personally I’m waiting eagerly for the ceremony on Friday. It’s going to be massive and I’m praying we don’t get hook up in a difficult group.”

The Super Eagles were the first African team to qualify for the World Cup and were unbeaten through the qualifiers recording four wins and two draws.

https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/onyekuru-prays-easy-world-cup-draw/

NFF Give Rohr New Two-Year Deal, Launch Russia 2018 Fan Reward Scheme



By Johnny Edward:

The President of the Nigerian Football Federation, Amaju Pinnick, has announced that the coach of the Super Eagles of Nigeria Gernot Rohr ‎has been handed a new two-year deal, Completesportsnigeria.com reports.


Pinnick made this known at the launching ceremony of short code *1945# for Russia 2018 FIFA World Cup in Lagos on Monday.

With the short code, 25 fans will win World Cup slots on a monthly basis from January 2018.


Rohr signed a two-year deal in 2015 when he took charge of the team and his new deal with the NFF will run until 2019.

Pinnick also revealed that Rohr has been paid his outstanding salaries up until December during his speech.

https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/nff-give-rohr-new-two-year-deal-launch-russia-2018-fan-reward-scheme/

NIGERIA 5 – 2 EUROPE: Super Eagles Scorecard Against European Teams At Past World Cup Group Stages



The Super Eagles of Nigeria will get to know their group stage opponents when the draws for the 2018 FIFA World Cup holds in Russia on December 1.

In their last five World Cup group stages, the Super Eagles have always been drawn against European oppositions.

Ahead of the 2018 World Cup draw billed for Friday, Completesportsnigeria.com’s JAMES AGBEREBI highlights how the Super Eagles have fared in their last eight encounters against European teams in the group stage at the World Cup…


NIGERIA 3-0 BULGARIA (USA 1994: Group D)

Nigeria’s first ever opponent at the World Cup was a European team, Bulgaria.

Both teams met in their opening Group D match at the USA 1994 World Cup with Nigeria winning 3-0.


Goals from the late Rashidi Yekini (21st minute), Daniel Amokachi (43rd minute) and Emmanuel Amuneke (55th minute) gave Nigeria the impressive win.


NIGERIA 2-0 GREECE (USA 1994: Group D)

After losing 2-1 to Argentina in their second Group D clash, Nigeria bounced back with a 2-0 win against another European team Greece.

Finidi George put Nigeria 1-0 up in the 47th minute before Daniel Amokachi doubled the lead in five minutes of added time in the second half.

The win saw Nigeria finish as group winners with six points after three games.


NIGERIA 3-2 SPAIN (France 1998: Group D)

At the 1998 World Cup, once again Nigeria opened their campaign with a European team in the group stage, this time one of the favourites Spain.

Despite being the underdogs, Nigeria stunned the Spaniards 3-2.

Fernando Hierro gave Spain the lead on 21 minutes before Mutiu Adepoju equalised for Nigeria on 24 minutes.

In the 47th minute, Spain took the lead again through Raul Gonzalez while an own goal by Andoni Zubizarreta brought Nigeria back at 2-2 on 73 minutes.

And with 12 minutes left, Sunday Oliseh decided the game with a superb strike from outside the box to give Nigeria the shock win.


NIGERIA 1-0 BULGARIA (France 1998: Group D)

For the second time at the World Cup, Nigeria and Bulgaria met with the former once again having the last laugh.

Victor Ikpeba’s 28th minute goal secured a 1-0 win and a place in round 16 of the 1998 World Cup.


SWEDEN 2-1 NIGERIA (Korea/Japan 2002: Group F)

The first European team to beat Nigeria in the group stage at the World Cup was Sweden following their 2-1 comeback win in Group F.

Julius Aghahowa gave Nigeria the lead in the 27th minute while Henrik Larsson drew Sweden level on 35 minutes.

And in the 63rd minute, Larsson scored from the penalty spot to give Sweden the win.


ENGLAND 0-0 NIGERIA (Korea/Japan 2002: Group F)

In their final group game Nigeria met England and played out a 0-0 draw.

It was an inconsequential game for Nigeria after they had already been eliminated following defeats to Argentina (1-0) and Sweden (2-1).

Both England and Sweden advanced while Nigeria and Argentina both crashed out.



world cup-world-cup-super-eagles-super eagles-completesportsnigeria.com


GREECE 2-1 NIGERIA (South Africa 2010: Group B)

Nigeria had the chance to bounce back from their opening Group B 1-0 defeat to Argentina when they took on Greece in their second group game.

Kalu Uche got Nigeria off to the best start with a 16th minute goal.

But everything started to go wrong for Nigeria when Sani Kaita was sent off in the 33rd minute.

Greece capitalised on their numerical advantage as goals from Dimitris Salpingidis and Vasilis Torosidis in the 44th and 71st minutes gave the Greeks their first ever World Cup win.


NIGERIA 1-0 Bosnia Herzegovina (Brazil 2014: Group F)

Debutant Bosnia Herzegovina became the eight European team to face Nigeria in the group stage of the World Cup.

This time Nigeria triumphed 1-0 through a 29th minute goal by Osaze Odemwingie.

Nigeria lost their last group game 3-2 to Argentina but still progressed into the round of 16.

https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/nigeria-5-2-europe-super-eagles-scorecard-european-teams-past-world-cup-group-stages/