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Category: Football

  • CAF Announces New Dates for AFCON, WAFCON

    CAF Announces New Dates for AFCON, WAFCON

    The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has released the new dates for the CAF TotalEnergies African Cup of Nations (AFCON) and the Women African Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.

    The CAF executive committee confirmed the dates during a meeting on Friday and published on its official website. AFCON will take place from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026.

    The Women’s tournament, originally scheduled for this year, has been rescheduled to July 5 to July 26, 2025.

    CAF President Patrice Motsepe explained that the delay in announcing the dates was due to the crowded global football calendar.

    Despite the delay, Motsepe expressed optimism about the tournaments in Morocco, anticipating they will be the best in the continent’s history.

    “The announcement of the dates for the CAF TotalEnergies AFCON Morocco 2025 took longer than expected due to complex and challenging discussions with various stakeholders, considering the extensive International and Domestic Match Calendars,” Motsepe stated.

    “CAF is dedicated to protecting and advancing the interests of African players competing in clubs across Europe and worldwide. We are also committed to fostering beneficial relationships with the ECA, UEFA, other Football Confederations, and FIFA. We will continue to make significant progress in developing African football to ensure it is globally competitive and among the best in the world,” he added.

  • NFF Blames Benin FA For Wrong Anthem Played Before Super Eagles’ 2-1 Defeat

    The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has blamed the Benin Football Federation for the wrong national anthem that was played before the Super Eagles took on the Cheetahs on Monday, June 10.

    Super Eagles of Nigeria had to sing the old anthem, “Arise, O Compatriots” instead of the “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” ahead of their game against Benin at the Felix Houphouët-Boigny stadium in Abidjan, Benin Republic’s adopted home ground.

    Note that the “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” anthem was used from 1960 when Nigeria gained independence until it was replaced by “Arise, O Compatriots” in 1978.

    But the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu reintroduced it in May 2024 to replace “Arise, O Compatriots”.

    The Super Eagles of Nigeria sang the reintroduced anthem before their 1-1 draw with the Bafana Bafana of South Africa on Friday, June 7. But they found themselves singing the just replaced “Arise, O Compatriots” before their 2-1 defeat to Benin Republic on June 10.

    However, while the Super Eagles were coming out for the second half of the game, the reintroduced anthem ushered them onto the pitch.

    After the disappointing defeat, NFF’s Director of Media and Communications, Ademola Olajire, explained that the football federation had handed a recording of the new national anthem to the Benin FA authorities at the Match Coordination Meeting in Abidjan on Sunday.

    Also, a statement from NFF’s Head of International Competitions, Dayo Enebi Achor, confirmed that the federation had given the recording of the new anthem to the Benin FA.

    “We gave them the recording of our new national anthem, only for them to play the wrong one at the beginning of the match. We protested strongly and insisted that the Super Eagles would not start the second half until the new national anthem of Nigeria was played,” he said.

  • Finidi George is New Coach of the Super Eagles

    Finidi George is New Coach of the Super Eagles

    The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has appointed former Super Eagles winger Finidi George as the new head coach of the nation’s senior men’s national team. 

    The decision was announced in a statement released on Monday, following approval from the NFF Board.

    Finidi George, a 52-year-old former Ajax Amsterdam and Real Betis forward, emerged as the preferred choice after the NFF’s Technical and Development Committee recommended his appointment. 

    He had served as an assistant to outgoing coach José Santos Peseiro for 20 months before taking over as interim coach.

    During his interim tenure, George led the team in two friendly matches in Morocco, where they secured a historic victory against Ghana, ending an 18-year winless streak, before succumbing to a defeat against Mali.

    Describing George as a member of the ‘Golden Generation’ that triumphed in the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations and shone at the FIFA World Cup finals in the same year, the NFF highlighted his distinguished playing career. 

    “With 62 caps for Nigeria, including appearances in the 1994 and 1998 FIFA World Cup finals, George brings a wealth of experience to his new role,” the NFF noted. 

    His immediate task will be to steer the Super Eagles to victory in crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches against South Africa and the Benin Republic. 

    With the team trailing in third place in Group C of the African campaign, the matches are deemed must-win encounters.

  • Why I Didn’t Shake Kano Governor’s Hands – Ahmed Musa

    Why I Didn’t Shake Kano Governor’s Hands – Ahmed Musa

    Super Eagles captain, Ahmed Musa has said he refused to shake the hands of Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State, in a recent video, out of respect for him and his office.

    Musa said this in a statement via his Instagram page on Tuesday amid a social media storm surrounding a viral video showing his refusal to shake the Kano governor.

    In the video, the footballer was seen shaking hands with the Kano State deputy governor while bowing to the governor and seemingly ignoring his handshake.

    In the statement, Musa described his action as a sign of cultural respect while calling for a shift in attention towards the pressing issues facing the nation.

    The Super Eagles captain asserted that the significance behind his gestures emphasised the deep-rooted traditions of the Northern culture.

    He, however, expressed disappointment that the incident has garnered such widespread attention, even from national media outlets, diverting focus from more pressing matters facing the country.

    Musa urged Nigerians to redirect their energy towards finding solutions to the nation’s problems rather than getting caught up in needless distractions.

    He said: “It has come to my attention that a moment captured almost a month ago, has unexpectedly become the centre of attention on social media. It is disheartening to see a simple act of cultural respect blown out of proportion.

    “In our Northern culture, the gesture of kneeling, shaking hands, etc. signifies the highest form of respect. This was my intention when I greeted the deputy governor in such a manner.

    “However, when it came to greeting the governor, I chose to bow and not shake his hands, honouring him in a way that is deeply rooted in tradition.

    “It’s unfortunate that amidst all the pressing issues our nation faces – economic hardships, security challenges, religious clashes, and more – this seemingly insignificant moment has garnered so much attention.

    “What’s even more disheartening are the comments questioning my respectfulness, especially from those who don’t know me personally.

    “Let’s pause for a moment and reflect on where we choose to direct our energy. Shouldn’t it be towards finding solutions to the problems plaguing our society rather than getting caught up in needless distractions?

    “I urge us all to channel our collective efforts towards addressing the real issues at hand. Let’s focus on uplifting one another, fostering unity, and working towards a better future for all.”

  • Alex Iwobi returns to social media after AFCON drama

    Alex Iwobi returns to social media after AFCON drama

    After the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final between Nigeria and Cote d’Ivoire, Nigerian footballer Alex Iwobi has resumed his presence on social media, particularly Instagram.

    The Fulham star had deleted all his Instagram posts in response to criticism he faced over his performance during the AFCON final, where Nigeria lost 2-1 to Cote d’Ivoire.

    Iwobi became a target of cyberbullying from some Nigerian fans, prompting him to remove all content from his Instagram account.

    However, he received support from teammates, the Nigeria Football Federation, and the Sports Ministry.

    Several weeks later, the Super Eagles midfielder returned to the platform with the post “Lately.”

    The post featured a snippet of what seemed to be an unreleased rap song.

    Iwobi’s return drew comments from fans, with teammates such as William Troost-Ekong, Frank Onyeka, and Kenneth Omeruo expressing their support in the comment section.

  • FIFA Debunks Introduction of Blue Card

    FIFA Debunks Introduction of Blue Card

    After reports emerged last week that the International Football Association Board had signed off on the trials of introducing blue card to football, FIFA president, Gianni Infantino has rejected the proposed plan. 

    It would have been the first time since the introduction of the classic yellow and red cards at the 1970 World Cup that a new card would be used in football.

    However, following an immediate backlash to the plans, Infantino has now told Sky UK such card does not exist.

    “Blue cards? This is a topic that is non existent for us,” he said.

    “If you want a title it is: red card to the blue card. No chance, no way.”

  • German Football Legend Andreas Brehme, Scorer of Iconic 1990 World Cup Winning Goal, Passes Away at 63

    German Football Legend Andreas Brehme, Scorer of Iconic 1990 World Cup Winning Goal, Passes Away at 63

    Andreas Brehme, the renowned German footballer who etched his name into history by scoring the decisive goal in the 1990 World Cup final, has tragically passed away at the age of 63.

    Brehme’s partner, Susanne Schaefer, confirmed the devastating news on behalf of the family, stating that he succumbed to a sudden heart attack overnight.

    “It is with deep sadness that I announce on behalf of the family that my partner, Andreas Brehme, passed away suddenly overnight following a cardiac arrest. We ask that you respect our privacy at this difficult time and refrain from asking questions,” Ms. Schaefer said in a statement released on Tuesday.

    Hailing from Hamburg, Brehme earned 86 caps for the German national team throughout his illustrious career. His memorable penalty kick in the 1990 final in Rome, which secured victory over Diego Maradona’s Argentina, propelled Germany to its third World Cup title.

    Despite experiencing heartbreak in the 1986 final against Argentina, Brehme’s contributions to German football were undeniable. He achieved success at the club level as well, notably winning the Serie A with Inter Milan in 1989 and the UEFA Cup in 1991.

    Brehme’s accolades extended to the Bundesliga, where he clinched titles with both Bayern Munich and Kaiserslautern. Following his playing career, he transitioned into coaching roles at various clubs, including Kaiserslautern and Unterhaching.

    The news of Brehme’s passing comes just weeks after the football world mourned the loss of another German icon, Franz Beckenbauer, who coached the national team during the 1986 and 1990 World Cups following his illustrious playing career.

    Andreas Brehme’s legacy as a football legend and his unforgettable contributions to the sport will continue to be celebrated and cherished by fans around the world.

  • Tinubu Rewards Super Eagles With National Awards, Flats, Lands

    Tinubu Rewards Super Eagles With National Awards, Flats, Lands

    President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday honoured the Super Eagles of Nigeria with the national award of Member of the Order of the Niger (MON), presenting them with flats in the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, and parcels of land. 

    The announcement was made during a reception for the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) delegation, led by the Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh, at the Council Chamber, Presidential Villa, Abuja. 

    The president praised the team, coach, crew, and management for their dedication and perseverance throughout the Africa Cup of Nations, where they secured the runner-up position. 

    Tinubu encouraged Nigerians to stay positive, highlighting the team’s remarkable journey and calling for unity and continued effort towards national success.

    “Let this passing event not dispirit us but bring us together to work harder. We are a great nation bound as one by the green-white-green banner of resilience, joy, hope, duty, and untiring love.

    “To those cherished Nigerian youths expressing their gifts in communities, drawing lines in the sand as they play football in their humble rectangles of play, you can be our heroes tomorrow, do not relent in your pursuit. My administration is here to make dreams come true,” the president said.

  • List Of of Nigerians Who Died Watching Super Eagles vs Bafana Bafana Semi-Final Clash

    List Of of Nigerians Who Died Watching Super Eagles vs Bafana Bafana Semi-Final Clash

    The thrilling Semi-final clash between the Super Eagles of Nigeria and the Bafana Bafana of South Africa in the ongoing AFCON tournament has left a sombre note for some football enthusiasts in Nigeria.

    Tragically, amidst the tension and excitement of the match, several Nigerians lost their lives while watching the game at various locations across the country. 

    Here are some of the notable incidents:

    1. Dr. Cairo Ojougboh:

     A former member of the House of Representatives representing the Ika Federal Constituency of Delta State, Dr. Cairo Ojougboh, passed away on Wednesday evening during the Nigeria vs. South Africa AFCON semifinals match.

    Dr. Ojougboh reportedly suffered a massive heart attack and slumped when South Africa scored a penalty against Nigeria.

    2. Alhaji Ayuba Abdullahi:

    The Deputy Bursar of Kwara State University Malete, Alhaji Ayuba Abdullahi, also succumbed during the semi-finals between Nigeria and South Africa.
        He complained of feeling dizzy and collapsed at home after watching the match, eventually passing away before receiving medical attention.

    3. NYSC Corps Member:

    A National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member serving in Adamawa State, identified as Samuel from Kaduna State, reportedly collapsed and died during the penalty shootout stage of the Nigeria vs. South Africa match.

    Samuel fainted just before the final kick, and despite efforts to rush him to the hospital, he was pronounced dead upon arrival.

    4. Mikail Osundiji:

    In Abeokuta, Ogun State, 43-year-old Mikail Osundiji tragically died while watching the semi-final match.
    Osundiji went into shock and collapsed after Nigeria’s second goal was cancelled by the referee, despite showing no signs of sickness prior to the incident.

    These heartbreaking incidents serve as a reminder of the unpredictability of life and the need for caution even during moments of excitement. 

    While football brings joy and unity, it’s essential to prioritize one’s health and well-being.

    As the Super Eagles advance to the final, Nigerians mourn the loss of these passionate fans and hope for victory in their honour. 

    Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and loved ones of the deceased during this difficult time. May their souls rest in peace.

  • Nwabali Faces Threats from South African Fans Following Heroic AFCON Performance

    Nwabali Faces Threats from South African Fans Following Heroic AFCON Performance

    Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, currently playing for Chippa United in South Africa, has allegedly received threats from disgruntled South African fans after his stellar performance against the nation in the AFCON tournament.

    Former Super Eagles international Idah Peterside disclosed the threats on Channels Television, revealing that some fans warned Nwabali against returning to Chippa United post-AFCON.

    The goalkeeper has reportedly been cautioned not to go back to South Africa, with displeasure stemming from his pivotal role in preventing the host country’s team from reaching the finals.

    Although there haven’t been reports of actual violence, Peterside highlighted the concerning messages, stating, 

    “People have sent messages to the goalkeeper threatening him. I hear some people are telling him not to come back to South Africa since you didn’t want us to score. We have not heard of any violence, but just threats. They have been threatening him and threatening some people.”

    Nwabali exhibited his goalkeeping prowess during the semi-final clash against Bafana Bafana, making crucial saves in regulation time and stopping two penalties during the shootout.