Author: Tunde Bayewu

29Mar By Tunde BayewuNo Comments

Sports

Super Eagles Shorthanded: Key Duo Absent from Training Before Jordan Showdown

Nigeria’s defensive roster may experience a notable transformation after two crucial Super Eagles players skipped a recovery training session as head coach Eric Chelle readies his team for Tuesday’s international friendly against Jordan. The Super Eagles approach the match following a 2-1 triumph over Iran on Friday. Recall that Akor Adams and Moses Simon netted goals to clinch the win for the 2025 AFCON bronze medalists. With that match behind them, Chelle’s squad has focused their complete attention on their second international friendly during the break against Jordan. However, Chelle might need to cope without two essential defenders: Hull City’s Semi Ajayi and Slavia Prague’s Igoh Ogbu. In the confrontation against Iran, Ajayi was taken off at halftime, with Emmanuel Fernandez comi...

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29Mar By Tunde BayewuNo Comments

Sports

“Nasarawa United Stumbles: Mangut Reflects on Tough Loss to Kwara”

Nasarawa United's technical consultant Mbwas Mangut has conveyed dissatisfaction with the result of his team's matchday 31 clash against Kwara United. The Solid Miners succumbed 1-0 to their hosts at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, Lagos on Saturday. Abdulsalam Abdulsalam netted the crucial goal for Kwara United from the penalty mark deep into stoppage time. Nasarawa United continues to occupy the third spot on the league table but may relinquish their position by tomorrow's end. Mangut stated that they were resolute in aiming for at least a draw from the encounter. “We are all disheartened by this outcome today,” Mangut told the club’s media post-match. “We had devoted ourselves fully to this match from the first whistle, only to be disappointed in the final moments. A draw was the...

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28Mar By Tunde BayewuNo Comments

Sports

“NPFL Showdown: Barau FC Takes on Katsina United Behind Closed Doors!”

The Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL, has sanctioned that the matchday 32 clash between Barau FC and Katsina United be held without spectators. The league authority indicated that this decision was made at the behest of Barau FC. As stated by the NPFL, the rationale was grounded in the previous behavior of fans from both Kano and Katsina United. The NPFL encouraged Barau FC to ensure successful arrangements necessary for the closed-door encounter. NAIJATAB reminds that crowd disturbances have transpired during matches involving clubs from the previously mentioned states. Barau FC will compete against Katsina United at the Sani Abacha Stadium this Sunday.

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28Mar By Tunde BayewuNo Comments

Sports

Plumptre Triumphs: Successful Surgery Marks New Chapter in Recovery

The Saudi club, Al Ittihad Ladies, has declared that their Nigerian defender Ashleigh Plumptre has successfully completed surgery for a foot ailment. Plumptre, who has initiated her rehabilitation with the club’s medical staff, is anticipated to be out of action for several months. The 31-year-old aims to achieve complete recovery prior to the commencement of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations. The former Leicester City player was a member of the Super Falcons team that clinched the WAFCON title in the latest edition of the tournament held in Morocco. An injury has caused Plumptre to miss the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, France. The WAFCON 2026 finals were rescheduled from this month to July by the Confederation of African Football, CAF.

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28Mar By Tunde BayewuNo Comments

Sports

“Fernandez Thrilled to Join the Ranks of the Super Eagles!”

Emmanuel Fernandez has expressed his enthusiasm following his first appearance for the Super Eagles of Nigeria, as reported by NAIJATAB. The Rangers defender substituted Semi Ajayi after halftime in Nigeria’s 2-1 triumph over Iran on Friday afternoon. Born in London to Nigerian parents, Fernandez was eligible to represent both Nigeria and England but ultimately opted to play for Nigeria. The 24-year-old has always aspired to don the colours of the three-time African champions. “It’s my home country, where my family originates, and where I come from. It’s something that I have always wished to achieve,” the centre-back shared with Rangers TV. Fernandez will aim to make his second appearance for the Super Eagles when they face Jordan in Antalya next Tuesday.

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28Mar By Tunde BayewuNo Comments

Sports

Fernandez Thrilled to Step into Super Eagles Spotlight

Emmanuel Fernandez has expressed his enthusiasm after making his debut for the Super Eagles of Nigeria, NAIJATAB reports. The Rangers defender substituted for Semi Ajayi after halftime in Nigeria’s 2-1 triumph over Iran on Friday afternoon. Fernandez was qualified to compete for both Nigeria and England, having been born in London to Nigerian parents, but ultimately decided to represent Nigeria. At 24 years old, he has always envisioned playing for the three-time African champions. “It’s my homeland, it’s where my family originates, it’s where I hail from. “It’s something that I have always aspired to occur,” the centre-back shared with Rangers TV. Fernandez is eager to make his second appearance for the Super Eagles when they face Jordan in Antalya next week Tuesday.

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28Mar By Tunde BayewuNo Comments

Sports

“Spain’s Triumph: Luis de la Fuente Praises Stellar Performances in Victory Over Serbia”

The manager of Spain, Luis de la Fuente, has praised two of his athletes following his team's friendly 3-0 triumph over Serbia on Friday. A double from Mikel Oyarzabal and a goal from Victor Muñoz secured Spain's victory against Serbia. During his post-match interview, De la Fuente lauded Oyarzabal and goalkeeper Unai Simón. He referred to Oyarzabal and Simón as elite and exceptional players. “Oyarzabal is an elite player. He is capable of everything,” De la Fuente stated. “He might also evolve into an outstanding coach one day.” He continued, “No one should question a premier goalkeeper like Unai Simón. “His talent, his abilities, his journey, his professionalism… I have complete faith in him.”

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27Mar By Tunde BayewuNo Comments

Sports

Nwaiwu Thrives in Debut with the Super Eagles

Chibuike Nwaiwu cannot conceal his enthusiasm after achieving his first appearance for the Super Eagles, reports Completesports.com. The Trabzonspor defender made his inaugural appearance for the Super Eagles in the 2-1 triumph over Iran in Antalya, Turkey on Friday. Nwaiwu substituted for Igoh Ogbuh in the latter half of the match. The 22-year-old was summoned as a last-minute substitute for the injured Calvin Bassey. The defender expressed that it was an honor to represent the three-time African champions. “It is an honor for me to serve my nation since the aspiration of all footballers worldwide is to represent their country, and I am extremely delighted to make my debut today,” he shared with the Super Eagles media.

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27Mar By Tunde BayewuNo Comments

Sports

Nigerian Super Eagles Triumph Over Iran with a 2-1 Victory in Thrilling Friendly Match!

Nigeria has triumphed over Iran 2-1 in an international friendly held in Antalya, Turkey on Friday afternoon. Eric Chelle assembled a formidable squad for the match in light of the absence of Victor Osimhen and Stanley Nwabali. It proved fruitful as Moses Simon initiated the scoring as early as the sixth minute, with a dazzling dribble and precise finish. The Super Eagles increased their advantage after the halftime break, courtesy of Akor Adams, following excellent efforts from Ademola Lookman. Mehdi Taremi managed to reduce the deficit for Iran. Nigeria’s upcoming encounter is another friendly against Jordan on Tuesday. This match was part of a four-nation invitational tournament, which also features Jordan and Costa.

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27Mar By Tunde BayewuNo Comments

Sports

“Super Eagles Take on Iran: Okoye, Lookman, and Adams Lead the Charge!”

Head coach of the Super Eagles, Éric Chelle, has revealed his starting roster for the international friendly match against Iran, according to NAIJATAB. Maduka Okoye from Udinese will be in goal after rejoining the squad. Bright Osayi-Samuel, Semi Ajayi, Igoh Ogbuh, and Bruno Onyemaechi will be part of the defense line. Midfield duties will be handled by captain Wilfred Ndidi and Alex Iwobi. Akor Adams is set to spearhead the attack, receiving support from Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, and Moses Simon. The match is scheduled to commence at 2pm Nigerian time.

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27Mar By Tunde BayewuNo Comments

Sports

“Trabzonspor Cheers as Nwaiwu Earns First Super Eagles Call-Up!”

Trabzonspor have celebrated Chibuike Nwaiwu’s first call-up to the Super Eagles for the international matches against Iran and Jordan, NAIJATAB reports. The centre-back received a last-minute invitation from Super Eagles head coach, Éric Chelle, due to the injury of Calvin Bassey. Nwaiwu participated in the Super Eagles’ practice session at the Bellis Delux on Thursday. The 22-year-old is set to make his debut for the three-time African champions in this afternoon’s match against Iran. Trabzonspor extends their best wishes to the defender before the game. “We wish our player Chibuike Nwaiwu, who is about to make his debut for the Nigerian National Team, all the best,” the Turkish Super Lig club posted on X.

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26Mar By Tunde BayewuNo Comments

Sports

“Super Eagles Soar: Nwaiwu Steps In for Injured Bassey in Iran and Jordan Showdowns!”

Trabzonspor defender Chibuike Nwaiwu has taken the place of Calvin Bassey in the Super Eagles’ roster for international matches against Iran and Jordan, as reported by NAIJATAB. Bassey withdrew from the forthcoming fixtures due to a back injury. The centre-back incurred the injury during Fulham’s 3-1 win over Burnley at Craven Cottage last weekend. This marks the first occasion Nwaiwu has received a call-up to the Super Eagles. The 22-year-old transitioned to Trabzonspor from the Austrian side, Wolfsberger AC in January. The Enyimba talent has netted two goals and provided one assist in 10 league matches for the Black Sea Storm.

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26Mar By Tunde BayewuNo Comments

Sports

“Iwobi’s Jaw-Dropping Goal Nominated for EPL Goal of the Month!”

Alex Iwobi’s remarkable goal in Fulham’s 2-1 triumph over Tottenham Hotspur at Craven Cottage has made the shortlist for the Premier League March Goal of the Month accolade, as reported by NAIJATAB. Iwobi extended Fulham’s advantage in the 34th minute with a long-range, side-footed shot from beyond the box. This goal marked the Nigeria international’s fourth this season for Marco Silva’s squad. The adaptable midfielder has also notched three assists in 23 league matches. Iwobi is also in contention for the Player of the Month honor. Morgan Gibbs-White, Elliott Anderson, William Osula, Bernardo Silva, Iliman Ndiaye, and John McGinn are the additional players considered for the Goal of the Month award. Supporters can cast their votes for the victor, with the ultimate choice reflecting bot...

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26Mar By Tunde BayewuNo Comments

Sports

“Istifanus Aims for Goal-Scoring Glory with Nasarawa United in NPFL”

Nasarawa United striker, Jofrank Istifanus, is eager to enhance his goal count before the conclusion of the 2025-26 Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL, season. Istifanus found the net during Nasarawa United’s 4-1 victory over Rivers United on Monday in Lafia. He has netted four goals for the Solid Miners in the ongoing season. He aims to score an additional four goals before the season wraps up. “It always feels amazing to find the back of the net for your team,” Istifanus shared with Nasarawa United’s media. “Scoring more is crucial for both the club and myself, and I hope to achieve maybe eight goals by the season’s end.”

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26Mar By Tunde BayewuNo Comments

Sports

“Istifanus Aims for Goal Bonanza with Nasarawa United in NPFL”

Nasarawa United striker, Jofrank Istifanus, is resolute about increasing his goal count before the conclusion of the 2025-26 Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL, season. Istifanus found the back of the net during Nasarawa United’s 4-1 rout of Rivers United on Monday in Lafia. He has recorded four goals for the Solid Miners in the ongoing campaign. He aims to add four more goals prior to the season's end. “It always feels incredible to score for your team,” Istifanus stated to Nasarawa United’s media. “Scoring additional goals is what both the club and I require at this moment, and I aspire to continue scoring, perhaps reaching eight by the season's conclusion.”

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26Mar By Tunde BayewuNo Comments

Sports

“Countdown to Glory: FIFA Sets Deadline for World Cup 2026 Team Selections!”

FIFA has notified nations that will be taking part in the 2026 World Cup regarding the deadline for submitting their roster lists prior to the tournaments. The ultimate roster lists for the World Cup will consist of 26 athletes. Each squad is permitted to dispatch a preliminary list that may include up to 55 athletes by May 11. This expanded list is intended to ensure there is capacity for any injuries, performance fluctuations, or last-minute alterations. FIFA has, nevertheless, indicated that the nations are anticipated to remove 29 athletes from the initial list by May 30. The finalized 26-member squads will head to North America for the World Cup. The opening match of the World Cup will take place between Mexico and South Africa on June 11.

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25Mar By Tunde BayewuNo Comments

Sports

“Spain’s Luis de la Fuente Reveals His Top Two World-Class Defensive Midfielders!”

Spain coach, Luis de la Fuente, has identified Manchester City’s Rodri and Arsenal’s Martin Zubimendi as the two finest defensive midfielders globally. In anticipation of Spain’s exhibition match against Serbia on Friday, De la Fuente commended both athletes, declaring Rodri as the top player in the world and highlighting that Zubimendi is the second-best midfielder. “Following all the challenges Rodri faced, he has returned to an elevated standard,” De la Fuente shared with TVE. “I have stated previously that he is the greatest in the world, but also that we are extremely lucky. “In that position, the No. 6 spot, we possess the two top players globally: Rodri and Martín Zubimendi.”

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25Mar By Tunde BayewuNo Comments

Sports

Bassey Bows Out: Super Eagles Friendlies Hit by Injury Setback

Fulham defender, Calvin Bassey has withdrawn from Nigeria’s forthcoming exhibitions against Iran and Jordan due to a back issue, NAIJATAB reports.. Bassey incurred the injury during Fulham’s 3-1 triumph over Burnley last weekend. Head coach Eric Chelle is not likely to announce a substitute for the defender with merely two days remaining before his squad’s initial friendly against Iran on Friday. In the meantime, captain Wilfred Ndidi has reached the team’s Bellis Deluxe Hotel location in Antalya, Turkey. Ndidi’s arrival raised the total number of players in camp to 22. The Besiktas midfielder is anticipated to partake in the team’s first training session this evening.

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25Mar By Tunde BayewuNo Comments

Sports

“Rediscovering Joy: Rasmus Højlund’s Bold Move from Man Utd to Napoli”

Napoli forward, Rasmus Højlund, has directed a playful jab at Manchester United after asserting that he now experiences happiness at the Serie A victors. In an interview with TV2, the Denmark representative remarked that he didn’t excel at Man United, yet affirmed that circumstances have now improved for him at Napoli. Man United loaned Højlund to Napoli last year after he struggled to make an impact at Old Trafford. The 23-year-old had transferred to the Premier League team from Atalanta in 2023. “Reflecting on my recent period at Manchester United, I didn’t excel. I understand that, but now numerous things have evolved,” Højlund shared with TV2. “They even claimed I was done in Denmark, yet I never lost hope. At Napoli, I feel happiness once more.”

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25Mar By Tunde BayewuNo Comments

Sports

Salah Surpasses Ronaldo: Carragher’s Bold Take on Premier League Greatness

Liverpool icon, Jamie Carragher, has asserted that departing Reds winger Mohamed Salah has eclipsed Cristiano Ronaldo’s Premier League legacy. Expressing his thoughts in his column for The Telegraph after Salah’s announcement that he will leave Anfield at the season's conclusion, Carragher contended that only Arsenal legend Thierry Henry ranks above the Egyptian among the league’s all-time exceptional foreign forwards. “In the hierarchy of international attacking players who have thrived in England, only Thierry Henry surpasses Salah,” Carragher stated. He also refuted comparisons with Ronaldo, Eden Hazard, Gianfranco Zola, Dennis Bergkamp, and Eric Cantona, emphasizing that none matched Salah’s prolonged supremacy. “Ronaldo’s tenure at Manchester United, both initially and upon his retu...

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