The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is yet to pay the Super Falcons a backlog of wages despite the team’s impressive display at the FIFA Women’s World Cup.
The body representing professional footballers worldwide (FIFPRO) has intervened in Nigeria’s Super Falcons' quest to get their wages from the NFF.

The NFF owes the Super Falcons players and coaches a backlog of match bonuses, camp allowances and expenses that date back to 2021.

FIFPRO urges NFF to pay the Super Falcons
The team’s current coach Randy Waldrum has not been paid for months while the players have not received bonuses in months.

There are even fears that the players may not receive the money FIFA allocated to each player at the FIFA Women’s World Cup as the world football governing body would only pay it through each team’s federation.

As a result, FIFPRO has now released an official statement, urging the NFF to pay the money the players deserve. The body released the statement on all its official social media platforms.

The statement read: Following the Nigeria women's football team's elimination from the FIFA

Women's World Cup, FIFPRO can confirm it is assisting players in a disagreement with the Nigeria Football Federation concerning bonus payments, camp allowances and expenses, some of which date back to 2021.

During the World Cup, the players expressed the desire to remain focused on their performance without making public statements or facing other distractions.

However, the Super Falcons believe that it is now time for the Nigeria Football Federation to honour their commitments and pay the outstanding amounts.

The team is extremely frustrated that they have had to pursue the Nigeria Football Federation for these payments before and during the tournament and may have to continue doing so afterwards. It is regrettable that players needed to challenge their own federation at such an important time in their careers.

FIFPRO will continue to work with the players to ensure their contractual rights are honoured and the outstanding payments are settled.

Oshoala, Osimhen call out NFF
The strong statement has elicited strong reactions from some of Nigeria’s top stars, with the team’s top player Asisat Oshoala resharing the post on her social media handle.

Super Eagles star player Victor Osimhen also jumped on the conversation by reacting to Oshoala’s post with a comment that says: Pay them @thenff with an embarrassed face emoji.

Aside from the bonuses and camp allowances, the NFF is also expected to pay the players $60k each for reaching the second round of the FIFA Women’s World Cup.

The Super Falcons exceeded expectations by reaching the round of 16 after qualifying from a group that had Australia, Canada and the Republic of Ireland.

The nine-time African champions played a goalless draw against Canada before a 3-2 stunning win over Australia in their second match.

Randy Waldrum’s ladies then played a goalless draw against Ireland to book their spot in the round of 16.

Although they eventually lost to England on penalties in the round of 16, each Super Falcons player is entitled to receive $60k from FIFA for getting to the second round.

However, FIFA had already announced that the money would only be disbursed through the Players’ Federation.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/super-falcons-fifpro-oshoala-and-osimhen-drag-nff-over-unpaid-salaries-2023080814121958286

The Super Falcons defeat to England in the round of 16 clash yesterday left a bitter taste in the mouth of Nigerian football fans.
Nigeria’s Super Falcons despite being underdogs against European champions England, showed strength, character and resolve pushing the Lioness all the way to penalties.

Unfortunately, England were left off the hook and they ran out 4-2 winners after an intense 120 minutes of football that ended in penalty shootouts.

Nigerian fans no doubt will be extremely proud of this crop of Super Falcons player - one of the very best displays that a Nigerian team has put up at the world stage.

The Super Falcons defenders were rock-solid at the back; Ayinde, Ucheibe, and Payne were all impressive in the middle of the pack - only the attacking third was the missing piece in this glorious team who bow out of the FIFA Women’s World Cup without losing a single game.

Sometimes football can be cruel with the better team on the day losing out. That being said, we now consider 5 times Nigerian teams have come agonisingly close to success and losing out by the tiniest of fine margins.

1. Nigeria Vs Italy (USA 94 World Cup)

Arguably Nigeria’s best-ever squad, coach Clemens Westerhof had put together a side that could stand up to any team in the world.

The Super Eagles of Nigeria were ranked 5th in the world by FIFA - this remains tge highest-ever FIFA ranking any African team has achieved.

Nigeria thrashed Bulgaria 3-0 in her first appearance at the World Cup, then defeated Greece 2-0 before losing to Argentina 1-2.

After surviving a World Cup group that had Argentina legend Maradona, Italy waited in the second round.

Emmanuel Amunike gave Nigeria the lead in the 26th minutes and it took until the 89th minute before Roberto Baggio levelled things for Italy, taking the game to extra-time.

An unfortunate handball by defender Austin Eguavon saw Roberto Baggio beat Peter Rufai in goal for Nigeria and send Nigeria out of the World Cup in a painful fashion.

2. Nigeria 2 Vs Cameroon 2 (AFCON final 2000)
The Super Eagles of Nigeria that boasted the likes of Ike Shorunmu, Jay Jay Okocha, Kanu Nwankwo, Sunday Oliseh, and Finidi George came close to winning the African Cup of Nations for the first time since 1994.

During the final of the tournament co-hosted by Ghana and Nigeria, the Indomitable Lions of Cameroon were two goals up courtesy of Samuel Eto’o and Patrick Mboma strikes.

Coach Jo Bonfrere’s team scored two goals to draw Nigeria level and take the game to extra-time and penalties.

Chukwu Ndukwe halved the deficit for Nigeria before half-time and then Jay Jay Okocha showed class where he scored a brilliant 25-yard volley to send fans at the Lagos stadium into frenzy.

However, after Kanu Nwankwo missed Nigeria’s third penalty, Victor Ikpeba who took Nigeria’s last kick put his hands on his head after the ball hit the cross bar, but replays shows the ball did actually cross the line - sadly there was no VAR or goalline technology back then.

Rigobert Song stepped up and won the final for Cameroon. Till date, this remains one of the saddest day in Nigeria footballing history.

3. Nigeria 1 Argentina 2 (U20 World Cup Final 2005)
Nigerians would never forget in a hurry the night Lionel Messi put a dagger through the hearts of football fans in the country.

A promising Nigerian side that had the likes of John Mikel Obi, Promise Isaac, and Taye Taiwo wriggled their way into the final with the hopes of millions back home resting on their young shoulders.

Argentina and Nigeria squared up in the FIFA U20 World Cup final. A Lionel Messi penalty had put the young Albiceleste in front before a flying header by Chiendu Obasi restored parity.

Unfortunately for Nigeria, another penalty converted by Messi saw Argentina crowned champions of the U20 World Cup - a trophy that continues to elude the West African giants.

4. Nigeria 0 Argentina 1 (2008 Beijing Olympic Games)
The Dream Team (Nigeria’s U23 side) were back at the Olympic Games in Beijing China, after mising out on the Athens Greece 2004 edition.

Coach Samson Siasia led side found a familiar and formidable opponent in Argentina again.

This time around, it took a Lionel Messi assist for compatriots Angel Di Maria to break Nigerian hearts once again.

Nigeria tried to find a way back into the game but Di Maria’s goal in the 58th minute was sufficient for Argentina to go home with the gold medal.

5. Nigeria 0 Switzerland 1 (FIFA U17 Final 2009)
At the FIFA U17 World Cup held in Nigeria, the Golden Eaglets were overwhelming favourites after dismantling many teams on their way to the final.

On home soil, Nigeria faced debutants Switzerland, playing in their first-ever final in 2009. The likes of Ramon Azeez, and Stanley Okoro (nicknamed ‘Little Messi’) were ready to feast on the young boys from Switzerland.

Nigeria’s coach John Obuh decided to tinker his squad a little bit - starting Sani Emmanuel who had made a reputation for himself as the ultimate supersub in the tournament - a decison that later backfired.

The Swiss team, though hugely underrated had Granit Xhaka and Ricardo Rodriguez in their ranks and they expertly nullified the threats by Sani Emmanuel and Stanley Okoro.

Then the unexpected happened, against the run of play, Switzerland countered and Haris Seferovic found the back of the net - sending a shock and graveyard silence through the Abuja stadium.

Nigeria did huff and puff but found no way past the impregnable Switzerland defence. Again, Nigerian were left heartbroken in a tournament they were clear favourites to win.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/super-falcon-5-times-nigeria-suffered-painful-defeats-in-international-tournaments-2023080810475936594

After conquering Africa, First Lady Tinubu welcomes D'Tigress to Nigeria with Aso Rock visit.

Nigeria's D'Tigress defeated Senegal 84-74 in Kigali, Rwanda, to become the first team to win a fourth consecutive FIBA Women's AfroBasket title.

The D'Tigress of Nigeria went undefeated in the tournament to win the African championship for the fourth time straight.

After an impressive showing, the 26-year-old Amy Okonkwo was chosen as the tournament MVP.

First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria Remi Tinubu, welcomed D'Tigress to Aso Rock following their arrival in Abuja.

According to a statement by Busola Kukoyi, "The First Lady said their performance on the basketball court is a testament to hard work, discipline, and commitment to excellence and this will inspire countless individuals especially women, to pursue their dreams. 🇳🇬🏆"

D'Tigress celebrates First Lady Tinubu for Aso Rock welcome
The welcome by First Lady Tinubu comes after her husband President Tinubu celebrated the team for their accomplishment.

A statement by D'Tigress about the First Lady's welcome said, "We are incredibly grateful for the warm reception by our First Lady, H.E. Sen. Remi Tinubu earlier today. Her Excellency’s kind words about our team effort and commitment to excellence are humbling.

"Special thanks also to wife of the VP, H.E. Nana Kashim Shettima and wife of the Senate President, H.E. Uloma Akpabio.

"We hope that our achievements serve as an inspiration to everyone, particularly young girls , encouraging them to chase their dreams with determination.

"It is an honour to represent one’s own country. We remain committed to upholding our values as a team and making Nigeria proud on and off the court. "

The First Lady celebration of D'Tigress comes after she promised a welcome for the Super Falcons after their exit from the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup.


Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/basketball/story/dtigress-first-lady-remi-tinubu-welcomes-african-champions-to-aso-rock-2023080720232811116

Super Falcons attacking wingback Michelle Alozie has opened up about the incident during the game against England.

Nigeria went toe-to-toe with the reigning European champions but suffered a painful defeat during the penalty shootout after the game ended goalless in 90 minutes plus extra time.

Chelsea star Luren James was shown a straight red during the encounter after fouling Michelle Alozie and stamping on her ass in the 87th minute.

The referee initially gave the Lioness midfielder a yellow card, but after a VAR review, the card was upgraded to a red.

However, Nigeria could not capitalise on the one-man advantage as the game went on to extra time and penalties, where England emerged 4-2 winners.

Michelle Alozie reacts to attack by Lauren James
The Super Falcons star who plies her trade in the US with Houston Dash said she is fine despite the stamp by Lauren James, and she holds no grudge against her.

However, she added that Lauren James’ reaction to the tackle was unnecessary and that she was initially confused and did not know what was happening.

"I was a little bit surprised by her reaction to the tackle. I don’t think it was really needed. I’m fine, my butt is fine from her stepping on it! I was kind of confused initially. I didn’t understand what was going on at first. There’s no hard feelings, it’s just a game," Alozie said.

The Houston Dash star also called for respect for Lauren James, insisting that football is a game of passion and emotions.

Lauren James locks her comment section on Instagram
Back home, Nigerian fans trolled Lauren James after she red-carded against Nigeria. Social media trolls also attacked the 21-year-old England midfielder.

The barrage of attacks online made Lauren James turn off the comments section of her posts on social media.

However, some Chelsea fans in Nigeria have pleaded with Nigerians to forgive the Lioness midfielder for her attack on Alozie.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/my-yansh-is-fine-michelle-alozie-speaks-about-stamp-from-lauren-james-2023080807020912518

Nigeria Super Falcons striker Desire Oparanozie became unpopular among Nigerians after her penalty miss against England at the FIFA Women's World Cup.

Oparanozie has apologised to Nigerians after being the penalty villan as the Super Falcons exited the World Cup.

The European champions England defeated Nigeria 4-2 on penalties following a goalless affair after extra time at the Brisbane Stadium.

Oparanozie's disastrous cameo
Oparanozie who had barely featured at the tournament before the England game, made a cameo late in the clash.

As a veteran of three World Cups, there was no issue giving her the responsibility of stepping up to take a spot-kick.

The 29-year-old stepped up to take Nigeria's first penalty, made extra important because England missed their first. However, she sent her kick wide of the post.

Nigerians received her apology well, with a few asking her to keep her head up as anyone can miss penalties.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria


https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/i-am-very-sorry-oparanozie-begs-angry-nigerians-for-forgiveness-after-penalty-miss-2023080807101157683

'You made Nigeria proud' - President Tinubu consoles Super Falcons after penalty loss to England.
England survived a difficult battle against Nigeria in the round of 16 to advance to the quarterfinals ending the Super Falcons Women's World Cup alive.

The Super Falcons came close to being the first African country to triumph in a knockout game in the tournament's history by hitting the woodwork twice during regulation.

After 120 minutes of play ended without a goal, the Lionesses, thanks to Chloe Kelly's winning penalty won it to advance to the quarterfinals

Nigerians react to Super Falcons exit
A lot of Nigerian football fans on social media were of the opinion that Super Falcons Head Coach Randy Waldrum did not choose the right spot kick takers.

The reactions on social media were in support of Barcelona star Asisat Oshoala taking the first penalty next t

President Tinubu consoles Super Falcons
After the result, the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria Bola Tinubu, consoled the Sper Falcons on their exit from the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup.

He took to his official social media platforms to send out a message to the Super Falcons stating they made the country proud.

He said, "I must commend the effort by our Super Falcons @NGSuper_Falcons at the FIFA Women’s World Cup.

"Your brilliant performance did not go unnoticed despite the final outcome. You made Nigeria proud on the global stage!"

President Tinubu earlier wished the Super Falcons success in the second group game against hosts Australia.

Tinubu's message to the Super Falcons comes after he celebrated Nigeria's senior women's national basketball team known as D'Tigress for winning the 2023 Women's Afrobasket title in Rwa

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/super-falcons-you-made-nigeria-proud-president-tinubu-consoles-team-after-world-cup-crash-2023080712525858492

Matteo Guendouzi, a former midfielder for Arsenal, had his home burgled while he was playing for Marseille.

Since 2021, Marseille has been the home of the French defender after a productive loan season and paid the Gunners £9 million to acquire him the previous year.

In a recent event, Guendouzi was on the field playing for Marseille against Bayer Leverkusen in a pre-season friendly when his house was robbed.

During the time of the robbery, Guendouzi's wife was in the house while the robbers took many valuables.

Guendouzi’s house robbed
The 24-year-old was participating in Marseille's 2-1 friendly victory against Bayer Leverkusen at Stadion Velodrome when burglars forced entry into his house.

According to reports from the Sun, they made their way in by smashing the window of one of his bedrooms.

Guendouzi's wife Mae, who was home at the time heard the noise and alerted the authorities. The pair resides in Cassis, a picturesque Mediterranean vacation spot close to Marseille.

Also, it was claimed that the burglars who broke into his home at night took a £200,000 Rolex watch.

The neighbourhood police have started an investigation into the robbery incident after they were called upon by Mae.

There have been several incidents of footballers' homes being robbed with the likes of Sead Kolasinac and Gianluigi Donnarumma also a victim of these incidents.


Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/sports-gist/story/ex-premier-league-star-matthew-guendouzi-robbed-n240m-watch-stolen-2023080416033444132

Nigeria D'Tigress to face Senegal in final of 2023 Women's Afrobasket final

The D'Tigress senior women's basketball team from Nigeria has advanced to the 2023 Women's Afrobasket championship final.

On Thursday, August 3, 2023, at the BK Arena against the hosts Rwanda, D'Tigress won easily 79-48.

D'Tigress and Senegal Women's Afrobasket final
Senegal defeated Mali on Thursday, 75-65, to secure the final spot in the 2023 FIBA Women's AfroBasket Finals.

Despite being outrebounded, they were still busier on their end, having 33 boards and put up a tough fight in defense.

Additionally, they took advantage of Mali's errors to score 17 points and to win needed 13 big bench points

Nigeria and Senegal will square off in a rematch of the 2017 and 2019 Finals.

D'Tigress on final
Speaking after the game, D'Tigress center Pallas Kunaiyi-Akpanah said, "I feel relieved honored. The team that won two years ago was a phenomenal team.

"But I think this team as well can fill those shoes. Under the leadership of coach Rena, we are in a good spot to repeat that win.”


Newly appointed D'Tigress Head Coach Rena Wakama added, "There's no secret. But they should be empowered. I believed in them.

"And I put a lot of confidence. And here we are doing amazing things. Teamwork and confidence in them, and we see the results." -

D'Tigress takes on Senegal on Saturday, August 5, 2023 for a chance at a fourth straight title.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/basketball/story/dtigress-nigeria-to-face-senegal-in-final-of-2023-womens-afrobasket-final-2023080406035586961

Chelsea youngster Chukwuemeka has given the Super Eagles hope over a possible switch despite representing England at youth level

Chelsea youngster Carney Chukwuemeka has refused to shut the door completely on the Super Eagles of Nigeria.

Chukwuemeka was born in Eisenstadt, Austria but grew up in England. The 19-year-old has represented England at all youth levels from U-17 to U-20.

Chukwuemeka opens the door for possible Nigeria switch
However, Chukwuemeka is also eligible to represent Nigeria at the international level through his parents.

While The Three Lions remain the favourites to cap him, Chukwuemeka insists he is not closing the door on Nigeria completely.

The former Aston Villa youth says England is his focus right now but he does not know what the future holds.

"I haven't really thought about it [playing for Nigeria]. I am focused on England, who I have played for at youth level. We will see what the future holds,” Chukwuemeka said as per Ben Jacobs.

Chukwuemeka will not be the first player to be in a position to play for either Nigeria or England at international level.

The likes of Alex Iwobi, Victor Moses, Semi Ajayi and Ola Aina all represented Nigeria despite growing up in England.

Meanwhile, Bukayo Saka chose to represent the Three Lions, choosing England over his parents’ country.

Chukwuemeka wants more Chelsea chances


While Chukwuemeka is focused on England, the youngster’s immediate goal is to break into Chelsea’s first team

The England youth international joined Chelsea from Aston Villa last summer but struggled for first-team football.

Chukwuemeka played just 345 minutes of league football last season across 14 games, but he is eager to change that this season.

“For me personally it's to break into the first team. I have set myself targets for goals and assists and to help the team win games and trophies. But my target is to break into the first team,” Chukwuemeka added.

The Youngster will hope to feature when Chelsea begin their Premier League campaign against Liverpool on August 13.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria



https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/chelsea-star-chukwuemeka-refuses-to-shut-door-on-nigeria-despite-england-chance-2023080317535809852

Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal are in the market for Victor Osimhen but their €1 million-per-week contract offer is beneath the Super Eagles striker.

Victor Osimhen is in the news again and this time, transfer interest in him is coming from Saudi Arabia rather than the routine links to Europe’s elite clubs.

Al-Hilal reportedly put in a €140 million bid to Napoli for their star man which the Italian club are said to have turned down in hopes for a slightly higher offer.

The proposition from the Middle East would have also seen Osimhen bag a whopping €1 million per week, around €52 million yearly.

Of course, this presented a dilemma for Victor who has to choose between furthering his career in Europe where he has started to build a reputation as one of the best strikers in the world and following the money to Saudi Arabia for a mega contract.

But there is a different conversation to be had about the offer and its relevance to Osimhen’s status as one of the finest strikers in world football.


Al-Hilal’s offer to Victor Osimhen
The €52 million annual contract offered to Osimhen will see him earn €4 million a month and €1 million weekly if he signs with Al-Hilal.

This also amounts to just over €142,000 every day which is more than his current weekly wage at Napoli which stands at just over €100,000.

The contract would also make Osimhen the highest-paid African football player right now and of all time.


It is entirely understandable that many believe he should have accepted the offer seeing as the fee converts to nearly 800 million Naira weekly.

Other African stars like Riyad Mahrez will reportedly earn £ 750,000 per week on his three-year contract at Al Ahli, while Sadio Mane will pocket around £ 650,000 per week at Al Nassr.

However, with Osimhen’s current status in world football, he probably should have been able to attract a bigger offer from Al-Hilal.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/victor-osimhen-the-super-eagles-star-should-feel-insulted-and-not-tempted-by-al-hilals-offer-2023080317122904330

Cristiano Ronaldo responds to Lionel Messi from Saudi Arabia with an iconic header for Al Nassr in the Arab Champions Cup.

On Thursday, August 3, Cristiano Ronaldo emerged as the hero as Al-Nassr narrowly escaped losing in the group stage of the Arab Club Champions Cup.

Ronaldo's Al Nassr traveled to the King Fahd International Stadium to take on Egyptian powerhouse Zamalek, fresh off a morale-boosting 4-1 thrashing of Monastir.

Al-Nassr went into the game knowing that to stay in the Arab Champions Cup after the group stage they need at least a point.

Ronaldo the hero for Al Nassr
Ahmed Sayed's penalty-kick goal early in the second half gave Zamalek the lead and the game's first goal.

Cristiano Ronaldo scored for the second game in a row after escaping his defender at the far post in the 87 minutes to guide a signature header beyond the helpless Mohamed Sobhy.

The Moroccan team Raja CA awaits Al-Nassr in the quarterfinals of the Arab Champions Cup after they have secured their place in the knockout rounds.

After the game, Ronaldo took to his official social media platforms to post pictures of his header and a message that said, "Qualified!💪🏼⚽️ Well done team!"

The Portuguese football icon rose to the top of the trends once again on social media as the debate with Lionel Messi was revisited, even though the Argentina maestro now plays for Inter Miami n the United States of America.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/sports-gist/story/cristiano-ronaldo-recreates-iconic-header-for-al-nassr-in-arab-champions-cup-2023080318371406661

The Former Delta Queens star has joined a new club side in preparation for the new season.

Peace Anthony Abbey, the most beautiful player in the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) Premiership, has joined Edo Queens from neighbouring Delta Queens after winning the league title with the latter last season.

The 16-year-old joined Edo Queens in preparation for the new season.


The striker is the second player to be unveiled as part of Moses Adukwu’s master plan to bolster Edo Queens team’s lineup for the new season.

The striker is gifted with an incredible physique and ability to finish in front of goal.

Reacting to news of her switching sides, she confirmed that she will make sure her new team gets the best at the end of the season.

“I honestly feel good about it; the players are accommodating, by the grace of God it will be a great season for me and team as I will be doing best.”

Peace Abbey started her professional career with Delta Queens whom she joined during the 2022/2023 NWFL Premiership season.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/peace-abbey-most-fashionable-player-in-nigeria-womens-football-league-joins-new-club-2023080315471997811

Arsenal star striker Gabriel Jesus is set to be sidelined for a few weeks after suffering a knee injury.

With the new season just 8 days away, Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has received some negative news, with key striker, Jesus set to miss the start of the new season.

The 26-year-old was left out of the team for Arsenal's Emirates Cup victory over Monaco on Wednesday, and after the game, Arteta admitted the injury was a big blow.

Arteta reveals Gabriel Jesus injury status

“Unfortunately he had a little procedure this morning,” Arteta said.

“He had some discomfort in his knee that has been causing some issues and he had to go and resolve it. It’s not something major but he is going to be out for a few weeks I think.”

“It’s a big blow because we had him back to his best, especially the way he played against Barcelona (in a pre-season victory last month). He was in good condition and we lost him but he’s been feeling some discomfort in the last few weeks and we had to make a decision."


The Brazilian forward scored 11 goals in 26 Premier League appearances during his first season with Arsenal. However, he missed part of the season due to a knee injury sustained during World Cup duty.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/arsenals-gabriel-jesus-to-miss-start-of-season-with-injury-2023080311023540251