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The conveyor belt keeps rotating for the Nigerian League

February 23, 2015, 3:10 am
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Emem Eduok, now with Esperance
If you are one of those who watch the Nigerian league or at least follow it via facebook or twitter, I promise that you may be a bit disappointed when the new season kicks off on March 7, 2015.

For people like myself, Emeka Nwani, George Akpayen, Ojeikere Aikoje, Carl Orakwue, Andrew Randa and a host of others, we will continue to enjoy the league because that’s the way we were made.

However, if you have followed the league from a distance and suddenly began to get interested, you will ask some questions

Where is Emem Eduok?

Many of you did not know Emem Eduok until the just concluded football season.

Five years ago, he played for Akwa United is a 15 year old then signed in time for the 2010/11 season which Dolphins won.

He had to struggle to play in a team that had the likes of Emma Nwachi, Chidi Osuchukwu and Adamu Mohammed but he took his time to learn until his big chance came.

Emem got his first league goal in match day 3 against Sunshine Stars in Port Harcourt.

Known for his speed and trade mark bursts of pace down the flanks, good with both feet and his head and his uncanny knack to wriggle out of tight situations on the pitch.

His claim to fame was scoring all six goals in the game against Nembe City in Port Harcourt on October 22, 2015, a goal scoring record by any Nigerian, anywhere in the world. He was also the one who first equaled Jude Aneke’s 20 goal a season records before Mfon Udoh surpassed it

Emem eventually scored 25 goals in all competitions last year, 20 in the League, 4 in the Federation Cup and one for the national team.

In case you heard about Emem Eduok last season and want to see him play, you won’t because he has signed for Esperance in the Tunisian League.

In fact, he has already scored 5 goals for his new club, 4 in friendly games and 1in the league.

What about Osaguona Ighodaro?

Osaguona Ighodaro was not a very popular player when he was at Shooting Stars but his stock began to rise at Rangers International.

Lanky, Nwankwo Kanu-esque and can score goals both within and outside the box.
Osaguona Ighodaro is now with Raja Casablanca

In a Rangers squad that had Christian Obiozor, Osaguona soon began to score goals until the national team assessors noticed him and he got a call up, playing in the AFCON Qualifying game on the road to South Africa.

He got his first goal in the 3rd match day of the League and on match day 15 he scored a hat trick against Gombe United.

By the end of the season he had 16 League goals to his name.

Do you want to watch Osaguona Ighodaro play this season? Sorry you can’t because he has moved to Morocco where he now plays for Raja Casablanca.


We cannot see Gbolahan Salami too

One of the most loaned out players in the Nigerian League is Gbolahan Salami but last season he finally got into the form books, playing for the Super Eagles and his club, Warri Wolves.

He has played for Shooting Stars, Sunshine Stars and Enyimba, all on loan and was more recognized for his uncanny knack for causing trouble than his goals.
Gbolahan Salami now plays for Red Star Belgrade

He even got the sobriquet, Nigerian Ballotelli.

However, at Warri Wolves he began to score goals and became a main stay at the Super Eagles in 2014.

Salami got his first league goal in match day 5 and at the end of the season had 16.

Though more of his goals were from the penalty spot, he scored them anyway.

At the Super Eagles, he led the lines at the CHAN tournament in South Africa in January 2014 and after the World Cup he came in as a substitute in the AFCON Qualifier against Congo in Calabar and scored.

At the end of the season, Gbolahan Salami had amassed 18 goals in all competitions, 16 in the league and two for the national team but he will not play the league in the coming season because he is now a player of Red Star Belgrade in Serbia.


Peter Ebimobowei is gone too

One of the best scorers in the Nigerian League in recent times is Peter Ebomobowei.

Ebibomobowei is with Al Ahly
He got 18 league goals last season and none was from the penalty spot.

He is big, strong, fast and can score with both feet and his head.

If not for Ebimobowei’s goals, Bayelsa United would have been relegated.

He got a nomination for Player of the Season at the League Bloggers Awards but that honour went to Mfon Udoh.

It is too bad that Ebimobowei will not strut his stuff in the league next season because he now plays in Egypt for Al Ahly Nationale.

A ray of hope

At least, the league’s top scorer, Mfon Udoh remains but not because he wanted to.
 
League top scorer, Udoh remains with Enyimba
Mfon got 26 goals in all competitions last season; 23 in the league and 3 in the Federation Cup. He tried his luck in Belarus and Egypt but eventually stayed put at Enyimba.

Christian Pyagbara got four goals in one game against Lobi Stars in Port Harcourt while playing for Sharks FC.

He ended with 14 goals and crossed over to City rivals, Dolphins FC.

Between Pyagbara and Udoh, the league has just two stars that people can look up to from last season.

Can the league cope with these loses?

If the coaches work hard and look within their ranks, at the end of the season, the league may unearth new players who will be major talking points by match day 30.

At Dolphins there is Victor Alegbe, while Warri Wolves have Oghenekaro Etebo and Sikiru Adewale.

Kano Pillars have taken Christian Obiozor from Rangers and he looks a decent buy already. At Enyimba, Peter Onyekachi, who crossed over from Abia Warriors seems like one who can do the business but truth must be told that a League that loses its best players every year will lose its appeal, especially to those who are not fanatical about it.
 
Dolphins' Victor Alegbe
Yet there may still be other players who were not to drawer last season who may just make their mark. That is the beauty of the Nigerian league.

Nigerian League clubs face financial competition from clubs all over the World and even in Africa; competition that they cannot win so players will leave every season.

The coaches must however, ensure the conveyor belt continues to work so more players come into the fray.

Are you one of those who don’t watch the Nigerian league but just follows on social media?

Did the exploits of Mfon Udoh, Emem Eduok, Osaguona Ighodaro, Peter Ebimobowei and Gbolahan Salami make you think you should begin to watch?

Don’t despair. The Nigerian league has never stopped producing talents. There will be many more coming out from where those came from.


Additional research from Fisayo Dairo
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Eguma prepares for life without Eduok

February 26, 2015, 5:17 am
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Dolphins head coach, Stanley Eguma is already prepared for life without Emem Eduok in the coming football season.

As the club prepares for Saturday’s 2nd leg 1st round CAF Confederation Cup clash against Leones Vegetarianos FC in Port Harcourt, Eguma extols the virtues of Emem saying his departure is a big loss for the club.

“In football, players come and go and clubs eventually replace those who depart,” Eguma said.

“The thing is that Emem does not fall in the category of players that you can easily replace.

“We tried to get Peter Ebimobowei soon after his departure was confirmed but unfortunately for us and fortunately for Peter he secured another deal outside the country which was beneficial to him,” Eguma said.

Dolphins eventually settled for Christian Pyagbara who crossed from city neighbours, Sharks to team up with the duo of Ifeanyi Egwim and Omo Johnson who were with the team last season.

“Pyagbara is one player that can comfortably fit into the shoes Emem left behind and I’m happy about it.

“He has a knack for scoring goals and he did so last season so we hope will continue that way this season especially in the CAF Confederation Cup.

“Ifeanyi Egwim has been with us for some time and though he didn’t do too well last season we hope he will pick up this season,” Eguma said.

“Omo Johnson is another striker we have and I must say we are gradually getting to replace Emem and by the time these players click we may forget the name of Eduok,” Eguma said.






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Oshoala left Rivers Angels for free

February 26, 2015, 10:31 pm
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By Queen John
Team manager of Rivers Angels Sports Club, Matilda Ouene has expressed her disappointment over the transfer of new Liverpool ladies forward, Asisat Oshoala from her club.

The reigning Africa Women Player of the Year moved from 2013/2014 Nigeria Women Premier League Champions Rivers Angels to back to back Super League Champions, Liverpool Ladies FC in January but no money exchanged hands for the deal.

Otuene told naijafootball247.com that she was not happy over the move because the club did not gain anything.

“If I lose a quality player like Asisat, it is has to be something to remember. That contract and move is not beneficial to the club. I am not really happy about it.”

Oshoala was a star at the Fifa U-20 Women’s World Cup in Canada last year emerging as the top scorer and tournament’s most valuable player.

The Rivers Angels administrator further explained why Oshoala’s move was a loss to the club.

“It is not because her contract ended, the rules in transfers are clear. She is moving from one team to the other and I think it has to do with Fifa rules because from my findings they said Fifa wants to encourage the development of female football.

“They made it open to encourage female African players that’s why I said we are not happy because we thought that losing Asisat will bring some sort of financial benefits to the team but we are still looking and waiting to hear from the agent,” Otuene said.

Otuene suggested that the rules should be amended to motivate female football clubs.

“What is good for the boys should also be good for the girls .We are not saying pay us what you pay the boys but we know football is business, these girls are paid and well taken care of so something should come in to encourage everyone of us.” she said.

There were different views from Nigerians on the best League or club the former Rivers Angels stars should have gone to but Otuene believes Liverpool Ladies FC was the best amongst the offers she got.

“Fans have their own opinion. Before you move, a club needs to show interest or invite you .You can’t just travel to those teams. Out of the many we had, this (Liverpool Ladies FC) was the best of all that indicated interest. One of the clubs who indicated their interest was Chelsea Ladies FC.”


Otuene added that, “we believe this is a stepping stone for her. Oshoala would move to a bigger club and bigger league soon. She has a bright future ahead of her let’s not despise that.”
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Pyagbara admits pressure at Dolphins

February 28, 2015, 2:52 am
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Dolphins’ new boy, Christian Pyagbara admits he is under pressure to start scoring goals.

Pyagbara who got fourteen goals at Sharks last season crossed over to city rivals Dolphins as replacement for Emem Eduok who got 25 goals in all competitions.

Pyagbara admits he is under pressure to score for his new side.

“There is pressure but you can’t let that affect you. If I do not score I will provide assists.

“You do not necessarily have to score many goals but as a striker you have to work hard as you can either score or assist,” Pyagbara said.

“My target however, this season is to score twenty goals,” he said.

Pyagbara would have had to take a tough decision dumping Sharks for Dolphins, knowing the rivalry that exists between both sides.

“It was not easy but I had to take the decision by going for what I wanted.


“I had been at Sharks for two seasons and won nothing so I wanted a change of environments.

“I weighed my odds and Dolphins always go far in tournaments so I chose to join them for the Confederation Cup,” he said.

Pyagbara has already played one game for Dolphins in the 1st leg of the CAF Confederation Cup against Leones Vegetarianos in Malabo two weeks ago.


He is expected to feature in the 2nd leg on Saturday, February 28 at the Port Harcourt Liberation Stadium.
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Sharks supporters club chairman assures on security

March 1, 2015, 9:10 am
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Assurances have come from the chairman of the Sharks FC supporters' club, Isaiah Ogolo regarding better security at their ground.

Ogolo told naijafootball247.com that he has a plan to ensure that the ground is safe when the season starts on March 7, 2015.

“First, I am chairman of the Sharks supporters club and these a group of decent people, who are registered wear uniforms and support the club before during and after games.

“Our membership has increased especially in the last one year and we have many more coming to join up. Before now some of us used to insult the referees or invade the pitch but all those things are past,” Ogolo said.

Ogolo added that no one can try to do anything funny on match days.

“I tell them in our weekly meetings that the League Management Company, LMC has put a lot of things in place to ensure grounds are safe and my people know that they must behave themselves at the stadium because we will do ourselves more harm than good if we cause trouble during matches.”

He assured fans and lovers of good football that they should turn out in their numbers to watch the team play this season.

“These days nobody wants to harm anyone. The time of harming people at the stadium is past. A lot of people come to the stadium to watch Sharks play.

“If not for that little crisis between area boys (street urchins) of Enyimba and those of Sharks last season, the stadium was very peaceful all through.

“All those things are behind us now and we do not envisage they will happen again this season,” Isaiah Ogolo said.


Sharks coach, Gbenga Ogunbote was beaten up and hospitalized for three days after unknown gunmen attacked him after a training session at the Sharks FC Stadium on Wednesday.

Captain of the team, Odinga Odinga was also manhandled on the same day.
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Nigerian clubs soar in Africa

March 2, 2015, 2:59 am
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All four Nigerian clubs playing in the CAF Champions League and Confederation Cup won over the weekend to move into the next stage of the their competitions.

In Port Harcourt it took Dolphins 27 minutes to cancel the 1-0 deficit from the first leg against Leones Vegetarianos when Emeka Atuloma curled home a free kick beyond the reach of the Vegetarianos goalkeeper, Yannick.

Profligacy was the order of the day for Dolphins as their attackers took turns in missing goals they should have scored.

As early as the 2nd minute Ifeanyi Egwim found space in the Vegetarianos area but his cross went way of mark and an overlapping Ayobami Asekunowo could not connect.

In the 16th minute it was the turn of Victor Alegbe to miss as some good passing moves by Dolphins completely split the Vegetarianos defence open but Alegbe who had just the post in front of him with goalkeeper Yannick out of the way blasted wide.

Fredor for the visitors had his chance to get a crucial away goal for his side in the 27th minute when they had a free kick after Jonathan Zikiye had fouled his man but his free header went wide after Sunday Rotimi had been beaten.

On the hour mark, Stanley Eguma took off Ifeanyi Egwim for Omoh Johnson and then Isiaka Olawale replaced Chidiebere Okolie who had missed a chance just a minute before he was substituted.

Christian Pyagbara freed him and with just the goalkeeper facing him after beating the offside trap, he blasted wide.

With eight minutes left on the clock, Victor Alegbe shook off his marker and tried a shot that was spilled by the goalkeeper but Pyagbara failed to bury the rebound.

In the ensuing penalty shootouts, Tijani Adamu, Emeka Atuloma, Victor Ezuruike, Chigozie Ihunda and Christian Pyagbara all scored while Yumby Nicanor, Pendah and Esoto Ada scored for Leones but Sunday Rotimi saved Guy Yannace’s kick.


Abalogu does it for Enyimba

In Cotonou on Sunday, Enyimba won 1-0 against Buffles Du Borgu in the CAF Champions League to qualify 4-0 on aggregate.
After a goaless first half, Andrew Abalogu scored the only goal of the game in the 61stminute after stealing in from behind the home side’s defence to score.

Abalogu had come in for Ezekiel Bassey just before half time.

Pillars continue fine form

The other Nigerian club playing in the CAF Champions League, Kano Pillars also sailed smoothly into the 1st round.

Pillars beat Malakia of South Sudan 3-0 in Kano on Saturday and 5-0 on aggregate to go through.
Gambo Mohammed opened scores for the Nigerian League champions in the 37thminute and then Mbah Ezekiel made it two with a glancing header just two minutes to full time from an Adamu Hassan’s cross.

Gambo Mohammed still had time to get his brace in added time to make it 3-0 for the homers.


Warri Wolves thrash RCB

Third placed side in the league last season, Warri Wolves also advanced to the next stage of the CAF Confederation Cup Competition after a 3-0 win over Racing Club Bobodialaso on Saturday.

It was Oghenekaro Etebo who got the goal in the 30th minute of the game.

In the 70th minute, Freedom Omofoman made it 2-0  to give the home side a 3-0 aggregate win.


Dolphins will play against Club Africain in the 1st round with a game in Tunis on the weekend of March 13- 15; Warri Wolves will be up against Dedebit of Ethiopia while Enyimba have a tie against Smouha of Egypt and Kano Pillars have Maghreb Tetoun of Morocco to contend with.
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Mfon Udoh and the curse of the skilled worker. A wager.

March 2, 2015, 3:09 am
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Mfon Udoh poses with car he won from League Bloggers Awards last year
By Nduka Orjinmo


A few years back in Aba, I watched Jude Aneke play for Warri Wolves against Enyimba FC. He had signed for the Warri club having finished as highest goal scorer in the league the previous season with Kaduna United-hitting 20goals and setting a new goals-scoring record at that time.

Safe to say he only pitched tent with the Wolves after several moves to sign for Egyptian and Sudanese clubs fell through.

On that evening in Aba, he toiled around all afternoon, largely disinterested in the football around him. He lacked neither the passion nor energy to play football. Aneke had lost his motivation. The skilled worker in him felt his trade should have taken him abroad.

Fast forward just a few years down the ever changing football calendar in Nigeria and an almost similar situation is set to play itself out, in my opinion. Not one to shy from putting money where his mouth is, I am going to place a bet on it. But before you know what I am betting, here is my wager:

Mfon Udoh, record goal scorer in the Nigeria Professional Football league, managed by the League Management Company of Nigeria, won’t score 20(twenty) league goals in the 2015 football season-for avoidance of doubt, that is the 2014/2015 season I believe.

His Wikipedia page describes him as ‘a complete forward who possesses pace, good positioning, natural finishing as well as the ability to provide assists. He is a fox in the box type of player, difficult to stop once in the penalty area’. To be fair to Udoh, he has merited such wealthy praise; 15 goals for Akwa United, 23 for Enyimba in two seasons, marks him out as a real finisher.
But therein lies the rub: I don’t think Mr Udoh can get 20 league goals this season.

I watched him once in 2014 in Kaduna against Kaduna United where his team ran away 0-1 winners. No, Udoh did not score that day, Sokari Kingsley riffled in the game’s only goal from a tight corner.

My opinion of the Nigerian league is one that is brutal and crunchy. More favourable to the defenders than the forward players. You will be hacked, you will be bruised, you will be fouled as a first resort. Goals don’t come easy or cheap, that’s why the record number of goals is 23. For the avoidance of being misunderstood, several other factors that don’t concern this article might be responsible for the low turn-out of goals in the league. I shouldn’t digress.

If memory serves me right, only Victor Ezeji has been able to deliver a consistent return of goals in the local league until he retired. Even he, didn’t cross the 20 goals mark.

It has been difficult, if not almost impossible to really judge the goal scoring prowess of the seemingly top strikers in the league. They have rarely given me the opportunity to ascertain the depth of their skill-set and to wean them of the fluke bottle which I think they suckle from. Even Chikeluba Ofoedu who notched just 11 goals in 2012, had done enough to stamp his CV with a move abroad. We truly have never really known.

But here is an opportunity; record goal scorer, Mfon Udoh whose recent link with a foreign clubside came from Belarus and Egypt is still with Enyimba. More heart-warming is that the local league kicks-off in just about a week. So finally, we might just have a chance to see if a true goals king has been born.

Honestly, I think if he does stay with Enyimba, Mfon would be affected by the curse of the skilled-worker. He would trudge through the football match, heart and soul gone, like Jude Aneke, that evening in Aba.

But because you never know these things in football, which ironically I am so sure of, my bet is $1000 to Mfon Udoh if he scores 20(twenty) league goals in the 2015 season. For the avoidance of doubt, the exchange rate of the naira-dollar, at the point where he gets 20, would be used when converting. I am also very sure he won’t get 15 goals, but if he thinks he can, I would give him $500 at the point when he does. Again, the exchange rate of the naira-dollar at that point would be used.


Quite frankly, I think it’s easier to predict how many league goals he would score than predicting the slide of the naira. And by the way, Wikipedia’s latest offering on Jude Aneke says he now plays his football in Kazakhstan.  
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Stars to watch in the Nigeria League, 2015

March 5, 2015, 3:37 am
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Christian Obiozor now plays for Kano Pillars
By Fisayo Dairo

The commencement of the 2014/2015 Nigeria Professional Football League is upon us. Yeah, starting from the weekend of 7th March (Ceteris Paribus), the best twenty teams in the nation will lock horns with one another in what is expected to be a battle of known foes and the relatively unknown.

This piece would focus on the gladiators, yes the real gladiators that make us leave our homes and offices for the stadiums. The PLAYERS!

It is common knowledge that the league was robbed of some of the stars that lit it up last term during the close season. Players like Emem Eduok, Peter Ebimobowei, Osaguona Ighodaro and Gbolahan Salami (who only recently returned to Warri Wolves) were the talking points last season and got rewarded with sumptuous deals abroad.

The questions then are: Are there more stars in the league to watch? Is there any player that is worth my time, "N200 (about $1) and transportation???”

I believe, yes! And to help you in wherever location you may find yourself during the season, here is a selection of TEN (10) players that will make your viewing experience worth the while.

1. Christian Obiozor (Kano Pillars)

Christian is unarguably the in-form player going to the new season. His integration into the Kano Pillars squad since joining from Enugu Rangers in December has been impeccable. His return of 5 goals in six competitive games in 2015 (5 Super 4-Invitational games and 1 Champions League qualifier) can only be bettered by the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.
Good in the air, can shoot comfortably with both feet and is good on the ball too, this lanky striker is certainly one to watch and his ability to co-exist with a fellow striker - as seen in Rangers last term - will give defenders sleepless nights and football fans enjoyable moments.

Mfon Udoh
2. Mfon Udoh (Enyimba)

Mfon needs no introduction to any league follower. The well proclaimed league record goal scorer found the back of the net 23 times in the league last term.
He would also go on to deservedly win the Player of the Season gong at the League Bloggers' Award in December. Mfon joins Jude Aneke as one of the few top scorers in the league to stay back the season after, even though he would have loved to leave to Al Ahly Nationale in Egypt.
Though I cannot precisely say how long this romance will last, we will enjoy it, regardless.
If class is indeed permanent, then all suggestions of him not living up to last season's standards can be laid aside as we catch a glimpse of this league superstar once the season starts.

3. Oghenekaro Etebo (Warri Wolves)
Oghenekaro Etebo

Etebo is a truly gifted attacker that we can be proud of having in the league. An excellent playmaker and dead ball specialist with a knack for goals. We were unable to see much of him last season but was one of the top performers in 2013, hitting double figures and playing a pivotal role in Wolves' run to the 2013 Federation Cup final.
This season, his relevance to the Olympic Team has made it more certain for us to have him fully concentrated to domestic football and his services will not only be enjoyed by “Waffarians” alone but also every league follower.

4. Christian Pyagbara (Dolphins)

Christian Pyagbara
If there is anyone closer to filling the void created by the exit of one of the stories for last season - Emem Eduok, it has to be the Rivers State born Pyagbara. Dolphins pulled a surprise coup with the addition of this Flying Eagles star. The upcoming season will only be his 3rd in the Glo Premier League but he is already creating an image for defenders to be wary of.
He scored 14 league goals last term in the colours of Sharks last term and his move across town to Dolphins will definitely avail him more opportunity to prove to doubters that he is here over the long haul.
The highlight of his season last year was against Sunshine Stars in Port Harcourt when he scored all four goals in the game.

5. Bobby Clement (Enugu Rangers)

Bobby is relatively new in the business as he is one of the revelations of last season. He made his breakthrough in the second half of last season when he scored six goals for Rangers' oriental rivals, Heartland FC having made his first start in Week 21.
For a young striker, Clement's tenacity is unbelievable as is his composure in front of goal. He can also count himself lucky as he is set to continue his development under Coach Kelechi Emeteole who has "carried him along" to Enugu Rangers. Having lost the duo of Osaguona Ighodaro and Christian Obiozor in the off season, fans of the Flying Antelopes can look up to Bobby Clement for goals in his first full season in the league and trust me, he will not disappoint.

6. Tamen Medrano (Sunshine Stars)
Tamen Medrano

This pint-sized Cameroonian is a joy to watch any day, any time not only in Akure but anywhere across the country. I was able to watch him in three away games last term and his acceptability in all the league venues is fascinating. Nigerians love good football and this former Tiko United star is central to Sunshine Stars' free flowing brand of football.
This will be his 5th full season in Sunshine Stars, nay the league which means he is vastly experienced enough to lead the team in its ambitions. One things has not changed since I first had a thorough look at him against Al Ahly in 2011: His height and finesse. He's as tall as Sergio Aguero and as enjoyable as Luka Modric.
He has also been named Best foreigner in the Nigerian League twice by the League Bloggers Awards, in 2012 and 2014.
Be sure to check him out.

7. Usman Mohammed (FC Taraba)

Usman is a central midfielder who blossomed in the colours of FC Taraba last season. His consistent contributions combined with the likes of Olabisi Samuel, Olusola Ajala and the defensive duo of Obinna Nwokolo and Emmanuel Njoku were crucial in keeping Taraba up.
Usman's control of his team's midfield with relative ease no matter the nature of the pitch is superb while his ball retention skills and passing accuracy is top notch to say the least.
Coach Tony Ogharanduku has to be grateful if he's able to keep this lad for another season because he is an embodiment of character and leadership.
And when next you see Enyimba's Bobby Sokari, ask him why his playing time with the Olympic Team has been limited. If he doesn't mention Usman Mohammed in his defense, Abeg! Don't believe him.

8. Samson Gbadebo (Lobi Stars)
In his debut season in the Premier League last term, Gbadebo was one of the few shining lights with troubled Nembe City.
It was no surprise when Lobi Stars came calling during the mid-season break and against all odds, he established himself as not only a regular in the team but a favourite among Katsina-Ala fans. He racked up a couple of man of the match awards in the team's home games and can only grow to a greater extent under new coach Justin Tenger.
At a time when the league is desperately craving for young centre backs, Gbadebo is gradually working his way up as one to dominate the league with his physical presence and intelligence.

9. Junior Gata (Kwara United)

The Harmony Warriors are back in the elite division after what I termed an unfortunate relegation in 2013. I am thrilled by the prospect of having the effervescent fans of United taking over the social media and most importantly the Kwara State Stadium in Ilorin once again.
One of the stars that will surely dazzle is Junior Gata, a rising youngster who has already been dubbed the new Ronaldo. Gata surely has enough room to operate as a toddler with his pace and trickery down the flanks. The season seems to have started quite early for Ilorin fans and they have seen a little bit of what Gata will offer during the NNL Super Four decided between February 23 and 25.

10. Emmanuel Iwu (Heartland)

Emmanuel is one of the award winners at the last League Bloggers Award in Lagos. He is a young, agile and athletic goalkeeper who is only into his second full season in the league. The Taiye Academy (remember Kelechi Iheanacho) product who will be remembered in Aba for keeping a clean sheet against Enyimba made up to ten appearances for the Naze Millionaires last term despite the stiff competition for places.
In the new season, with Chinedu Udeh off to Abia Warriors, Iwu will most definitely enjoy more playing time if he stays fit as he competes with an elder statesman Ebele Obi (Mikel's elder brother) for the team's number one slot.

Many more stars are here, many more stars will be birthed but do not wait to be told the story like last season. Do not wait till they dazzle in the green and white colours of our national teams. Be part of those that saw them first and I assure you that you will get full value for your money.


ALOHA
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Kano Pillars players attacked, shot on way to League game

March 5, 2015, 10:10 am
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Gambo Mohammed
Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) defending champions, Kano Pillars were attacked on their way to honor their league opener in Owerri.

SL10.ng put a call through to the media manager of Kano Pillars, Idris Malikawa and sounded very low, he said some of the players were shot.

"Yes it's true that the players were attacked at Abaji, some players were shot. Gambo Mohammed, Otekpa and a few others were shot. They are currently at a hospital in Lokoja,"Malikawa informed SL10.ng.

We (sl10.ng) shall confirm the names of the players and the current state of the players who are in the hospital.

Kano Pillars were to be the guest of Heartland at the Dan Anyim stadium in a week fixture of the NPFL 2013/2015.

SL10.ng just spoke to one of Kano Pillars players, Isaac Loute, and he informed that the team was attacked and some of the players were shot, but as we speak they are at a Federal hospital in Kogi State.

"We were attacked by armed robbers, they shot our players in the hand, and some were hit on the head," Isaac Loute told SL10.ng on phone.

"Gambo Mohammed, Otekpa Energy, Ekpai Ubong, Rubuen Ogbonaya who just joined Pillars from El-Kanemi Warriors, and then Muritala were all hit by bullets. Right now we are at the Federal hospital in Kogi," Loute said.

Kano Pillars Update: Emordi Grateful To God After Attack, LMC Postpone Game


The bus carrying Kano Pillars FC to a Nigeria Professional Football League away fixture against Heartland FC came under fire on Thursday afternoon.

The 18-man squad was headed to Owerri for the week 1 fixture of the 2014/15 season when it was attacked at Abaji, according to technical adviser of the club Felix Okey Emordi.

The five players injured during the attack are Super Eagles striker Gambo Muhammed, former Dream Team star Eneji Otekpa, defensive trojan Adamu Murtala, ex Elkanemi Warriors defender Reuben Ogbonnaya and wing wizard Ubong Ekpai.

“We ran into them and immediately they opened fire. One of them opened the door and forced it open. They then shot the boys, of which five were injured.”

“We thank Almighty God for there was no life lost, because it could have been lost. Immediately after the men of the underworld pulled the trigger we ran into the bush and we started coming to the hospital.”

SL10 reporter Abayomi Ademetan, at the Federal Medical Centre, where the injured players were being taken to, learnt that the armed robbers collected ransoms from players of the CAF Champions League campaigners.

“As they were shooting, they were asking for money and valuables. The boys co-operated with them and ran for their dear lives. I still thank God for sparing the lives of the players,” coach Emordi continued.

In the past, teams travelling on the road to prosecute league matches have been victims of the men of the underworld.

“It's a common phenomenon in the country. I'm not condemning the efforts of our law enforcement officers. They are trying their best. They need to do more to fish out the criminals."

SL10 reports, Gambo Mohammed was the most affected of the injured players as he was groaning in pains and might be out of action for a long time.

Eneji Otekpa, Adamu Murtala, Reuben Ogbonnaya and Ubong Ekpai should be back to action in a couple of weeks.

The LMC have already announced an indefinite postponement to their game scheduled for this weekend against Heartland, but all other matches will go ahead.





Culled from www.sl10.ng


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LMC calls off Heartland, Pillars game

March 5, 2015, 10:48 am
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The League Management Company [LMC] has postponed the opening game of the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) between champions Kano Pillars and Heartland.

Heartland were scheduled to play hosts to the champions this Saturday, but the game is now off after the Kano club were attacked by armed robbers along Abaji-Lokoja road on Thursday afternoon.

Five key players, Gambo Muhammed, Eneji Otekpa, Adamu Murtala, Reuben Ogbonnaya and Ubong Ekpai, were those left injured from the incident.

"The League Management Company has expressed shock at the news of the armed robbery attack on Kano Pillars Football Club contingent along the Abuja-Lokoja Road and consequently ordered an indefinite postponement of their Match Day 1 fixture in Owerri against Heartland FC," the opening part of the statement from the league body said.

Chief Operating Officer of the league company, Salihu Abubakar, condemned the attack on Kano Pillars.

He added that the other nine matches of game week one will hold as scheduled with the two matches in Port harcourt tagged the doubleheader billed to go live on SuperSport this Saturday.

"Whilst we sympathize with the Club and strongly condemn this crime, Clubs are advised that the Match Day 1 fixtures will hold as scheduled except the Matches in Port Harcourt which will now serve as a double-header and will be televised live on Saturday,” Abubakar said.

Dolphins will play hosts to Kwara United in the early kickoff of the opening day while Sharks face Sunshine Stars in the second match of Saturday.


Culled from www.supersport.com


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Nigeria Professional Football League match Day 1 Predictions

March 7, 2015, 3:29 am
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Guest writer, Fisayo Dairo
To improve our coverage of the Nigeria Professional Football League and fans’ interest in this blog we are creating this new segment where we will have football writer, Fisayo Dairo run the rule on how the league games will go on every match day.

Save his predictions and we will see how he fares by Sunday night

1. @DolphinsFC vs @KwaraUnitedFC. Dolphins' slight advantage in preparation should count and I go for a 2-1 win for the hosts. #GloNPFL

2. Sharks vs @SunshineFCAkure. I'm 100% backing Sunshine to get something out of the game but I go for an away win. 1-2 #OctopusFiscosports

3. @Enyimba FC vs Akwa Utd. There shouldn't be a happy return to Aba for Akwa gaffer Zachary Baraje. I go for an emphatic home win. 3-0

4. Ifeanyi Uba FC vs Warri Wolves. The locals in Nnewi should enjoy the visitors who I respect a lot. Though in the absence of Aigbogun, I still back them for a 1-1 draw.

5. Bayelsa Utd vs @LobiStars. Ebimobowei scored a hattrick in this game last term. He's no longer here but I go for a 2-1 home win. #GloNPFL

6. FC Taraba vs @enugurangersfc. This one also has DRAW written all over it. I call it 0-0. #OctopusFiscosports

7. El-Kanemi vs Nasarawa Utd. I'm also backing Utd to get something out of it because they've been in Kano for over a week now. 1-1

8. Wikki Tourists vs 3SC. Shooting normally starts on a high but I don't expect Abdu Maikaba's boys to drop points at home this early. 1-0

9. Giwa FC vs Abia Warriors. Both teams go head to head in their 2nd season in the top flight. I back the hosts to edge it 2-1. #OctopusFiscosports



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Super Falcons duo return to Nigeria, rejoin Angels

March 9, 2015, 1:13 am
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Francisca Ordega
By Queen John

Africa Women Championship winners, Osinachi Ohale and Francisca Ordega have returned to the Nigeria Women League to join reigning champions, Rivers Angels.

Ohale, 23 is rejoining the three time NWPL champions American side from Houston Dash after 5 seasons away from the Port Harcourt based club.

On her part, 21-year old Ordega, returns to the Rivers State-owned side after just 2 seasons at Russian club, WFC Rossiyanka and Pitea IF of Sweden who she played for in 2013 and 2014 respectively.

Head coach of Rivers Angels, Edwin Okon confirmed to naijafootball247.com that Osinachi Ohale as well as former Pitea IF forward, Fransica Ordega are now back in his fold.

“Both Osinachi and Ordega are properties of Rivers State so at that level they are Rivers Angels players today. As far as I know, when Rivers Angels sign you, even though you go to a foreign land, you still belong to us”

Ohale played for Rivers Angels in 2008/2009 season before moving to Delta Queens winning the NWPL title back to back in 2010/2011 and 2011/2012 season spending 3 seasons in the club before signing for Houston Dash for the 2013/2014 football campaign.

On the other hand, Ordega was a Rivers Angels player in the 2011/2012 season finishing as NWPL runners-up to their south-south rivals, Delta Queens.

In 2013, the Benue born forward moved to WFC Rossiyanka where she spent one season before spending another single season at Swedish side, Pitea IF in the 2014 football campaign.

Team manager of Rivers Angels, Matilda Otuene also confirmed the news to naijafootball247.com that towering defender, Ohale and diminutive forward Francisca Ordega have been registered as Rivers Angels' players for the 2014/2015 NWPL season.

“This is their team, this is their home. Coming back to Nigeria may be they felt that it is time to come back home for that reason they are welcome," began Otuene.

“Both players have been registered for the new season and I believe they will add meaningful contributions to the team," she concluded.

Both players were part of the Super Falcons team that crashed out in the first round of the 2011 Fifa Women’s World Cup in Germany.

They also contributed to the Super Falcons team that won the Africa Women Championship in Namibia last year.





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FLYING EAGLES ARE READY FOR AYC – UGBADE

March 9, 2015, 8:13 am
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Nduka Ugbade
By Emeka Dennar


Assistant coach of the National U-20 football side, Nduka Ugbade has declared that the team is ready to handle the weight of expectations from Nigerians ahead of the 2015 AYC which began in Senegal on Sunday

The Flying Eagles, as the U20 are called beat the host 3-1 in the opening game and  Ugbade says the Flying Eagles are capable of dealing with the pressure associated with putting up a decent performance at the CAF U-20 showpiece.

They won the expanded Pre-season Super 4 tournament in Abuja last month after securing four wins against NPFL sides, Kano Pillars, Enyimba, Warri Wolves and Dolphins and a draw against the national U-23 side.

Ugbade says the team is aware of the task ahead and that they are primed to make the country proud in Senegal.

His declarations are coming after the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) tasked the team to win the 2015 African Youth Championship in Senegal.

“That is the issue we (Flying Eagles) are facing at the moment; a lot of anxiety,” the former Mountain of Fire and Miracles (MFM) coach said.

“The NFF are saying it emphatically that everybody is expecting some great performance from us because a lot of Nigerians have gotten the opportunity to see us during the Super 6 competition and they said that we are very good,” Ugabde said.

As part of preparations for the AYC, the Flying Eagles also played a two-legged friendly against their Ghanaian counterparts, the Black Satellites.

“We are ready to showcase what we have and you must understand that the boys are young. They have gotten their transition from U-17 to U-20. We are ready,” Ugbade declared.


Nigeria have won the AYC a record 6 times in 1983, 1985, 1987, 1989, 2005 and 2011.
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NPFL Match day 1 Round up: Victor Yakubu gets first brace

March 9, 2015, 8:31 am
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Wikki Tourists’ attacker, Victor Yakubu got the first brace of the league as his two goals ensured newly promoted Wikki tourists beat another newly promoted side, Shooting Stars 2-0 in Bauchi

Yakubu scored in the 6th and 56th minutes of the game, the second goal a penalty.

In Benin, where Bayelsa United have chosen to play their home games, the home side forced Lobi Stars to a draw. The encounter ended 1-1.

Obioma Arinze put Lobi Stars ahead in the 43rd minute and Eric Frimpong drew level for the home side with 20 minutes left on the clock.

Opening day boredom

But the opening day of the season caused more moments to fall asleep in the stands than excitement.

After one hundred and eighty minutes of football, no goals were scored.

First Dolphins and Kwara United engaged the fans in a 90 minute bore fest and then the game between Sharks and Sunshine had a similar score line.

The few moments of excitements in the first game came out of the visitors who could have easily won if not for the efforts of Sunday Rotimi in goal.

“It wasn’t a bad game,” Dolphins coach, Stanley Eguma said.

“It wasn’t as good a game as we expected too. The opponents did well and we must thank our goalkeeper Sunday Rotimi for a good job. Sometimes you win and others you don’t. We take it in good faith and plan for subsequent matches,” Stanley Eguma said.

Kwara United’s coach, Tunde Abdulrahman rather complained about the fact that he could not register all his players before the game.

“I first thank God for getting a draw, but my team could only get 16 registered players out of thirty five.

“The boys played well though and I must thank God for getting a draw,” Abdulrahman said.

Still in Port Harcourt, Sharks were unable to get past Sunshine Stars as that encounter also ended barren.

After the drab encounter, Sharks assistant coach, Ere Dokubu said it was a fair result for his side.

“It wasn’t a bad one. Even if we actually wanted to win, nature has its own way,” Dokubo said.

Sunshine Stars Technical director Paul Ashworth said he was disappointed with the result but believes they can do better in their next game.

“When you start a season, naturally, no team wants to lose and I think that showed in this game. Obviously it wasn’t our best game, but it’s our first game and to get an away point I’m disappointed because I wanted to get three points,” Ashworth said.

Ikhana not happy with poor showing

Enyimba International of Aba failed to impress their fans at the Enyimba International as they recorded a poor start to the season after being held to a 0-0 draw by Akwa United.

The 6-time champions Enyimba squandered a lot of scoring chances as they were held to a goalless draw by visiting Akwa United.

Daniel Etor, Chinonso Okonkwo and last season’s highest goal scorer, Mfon Udoh were all wasteful in front of goal as the Uyo-based side ran away with a point before a capacity crowd at the Enyimba International stadium.

After the match, technical adviser of Enyimba, Kadiri Ikhana lamented the missed chances by his boys.

“It was not a difficult game. We had all the chances. My boys played better, we just failed to score.

“We will continue with the league and hope to pick these lost points away from home,” Ikhana said


Head coach of Akwa United Zachary Baraje was not carried away with the result saying he never prepared specially for his former club, Enyimba.

“This match cannot determine who wins the league or who will be relegated. The match means nothing more to me than what it really is, and it is just one road game that we got a point. Remember, Enyimba has their own internal problems so maybe that affected them and gave us the result,” Baraje said.

In Jalingo, FC Taraba were lucky to get all three points at stake, beating Rangers International 3-2.

It was Bobby Abel who scored first in the 14th minute for FC Taraba before Senegal born Pierre Coly drew level in the 28th minute.

Abdulmalik Mohammed put the homers in from two minutes after the break via a penalty before Nura Mohammed made it 3-1 in the 65th minute.

Rangers upped the ante, pulling one back in the 88th minute when Samuel Agba scored but they could not do more than that and the game ended 3-2 in favour of FC Taraba

In Nnewi, new boys, Gabros FC, now renamed Ifeanyi Uba FC thrashed Warri Wolves 2-0 with Michael Onuoha scoring the first goal of the league in the 4thminute before Onyekachi Nwaiwu made it 2-0 in the 90th minute.

The game between FC Giwa and Abia Warriors ended 0-0 while Abraham Audu’s lone strike in the 40th minute was all El Kanemi FC needed to beat Nasarawa United 1-0.


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How our in house pundit fared on predictions

March 10, 2015, 2:48 am
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Fisayo Dairo
On Saturday just before the opening day games of the Nigeria Professional Football League, guest write, Fisayo Dairo stuck his neck out on final outcomes of the games.

Her is how he fared

1. @DolphinsFC vs @KwaraUnitedFC. Dolphins' slight advantage in preparation should count and I go for a 2-1 win for the hosts. #GloNPFL

This game ended 0-0. Epic Fail


2. Sharks vs @SunshineFCAkure. I'm 100% backing Sunshine to get something out of the game but I go for an away win. 1-2 #OctopusFiscosports

This game ended 0-0. Epic Fail

3. @Enyimba FC vs Akwa Utd. There shouldn't be a happy return to Aba for Akwa gaffer Zachary Baraje. I go for an emphatic home win. 3-0

This game ended 0-0. Epic Fail


4. Gabros vs Warri Wolves. The locals in Nnewi should enjoy the visitors who I respect a lot. Though in the absence of Aigbogun, I still back them for a 1-1 draw.

Gabros won 2-0. Epic Fail


5. Bayelsa Utd vs @LobiStars. Ebimobowei scored a hattrick in this game last term. He's no longer here but I go for a 2-1 home win. #GloNPFL

This game ended 1-1. Epic Fail


6. FC Taraba vs @enugurangersfc. This one also has DRAW written all over it. I call it 0-0. #OctopusFiscosports

This game ended 3-2. Epic Fail


7. El-Kanemi vs Nasarawa Utd. I'm also backing Utd to get something out of it because they've been in Kano for over a week now. 1-1

This game ended 1-0. Epic Fail


8. Wikki Tourists vs 3SC. Shooting normally starts on a high but I don't expect Abdu Maikaba's boys to drop points at home this early. 1-0

Fisayo went for a 1-0 win, but Wikki Tourist won 2-0. He has suffered a lot so we will give this one to him


9. Giwa FC vs Abia Warriors. Both teams go head to head in their 2nd season in the top flight. I back the hosts to edge it 2-1. #OctopusFiscosports

This game ended 0-0. Epic Fail


Verdict: Out of nine games played, Fisayo Dairo got eight results completely wrong. Maybe we should get a new guest writer to make predictions


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Vincent Enyeama has 99 caps

March 16, 2015, 4:26 pm
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There has been a bit of controversy brewing as regards the number of caps Super Eagles captain, Vincent Enyeama has.

Just as in the case of Joseph Yobo when he hit 93.  While some put his number at 94, others said it was 95 and the controversy hit an all-time high at 99, but it was really 97 then.

However, truth prevailed and Yobo was not given a 100th cap before his time.

Vincent Enyeama has hit 99 caps and may get his one hundredth cap against Bolivia on March 26.

Kunle Solaja, known as Nigeria’s foremost Nigerian historian and statistician, in an article written in “The Sun “newspapers put Enyeama’s record of appearances at 98.

Below is a list of Vincent Enyeama’s Super Eagles’ games as listed by Kunle Solaja

Enyeama’s international matches

– 98 appearances; 46 clean sheets 7 substitutions

May 4, 2002 (F-Lagos) Nigeria 3 – 0 Kenya.
12 June 2002 (WC-Osaka) England 0 – 0 Nigeria.
September 8, 2002 (AFCONq-Luanda) Angola 0 -0 Nigeria.
October 12, 2002 (F-Dakar) Senegal 2 – 2 Nigeria.
November 20, 2002 (F- Lagos) Nigeria 0 – 0 Jamaica.
March 29, 2003 (AFCONq-Blantyre) Malawi 0 – 1 Nigeria.
June 7, 2003 (Afconq – Abuja) Nigeria 4 – 1 Malawi.
June 11, 2003 (F – Abuja) Nigeria 0 – 3 Brazil.
July 26, 2003 (F-Watford) Venezuela 0 – 1 Nigeria.
January 27, 2004 (AFCON- Monastir) Morocco 1 – 0 Nigeria.
January 21, 2004 (AFCON- Monastir) South Africa 0 – 4 Nigeria.
February 4, 2004 (AFCON-Sfax) Benin 1 – 2 Nigeria.
February 8, 2004 (AFCON-Monastir) Cameroon 1 – 2 Nigeria.
February 11, 2004(AFCON-Rades) Tunisia 1 – 1 Nigeria.*Tunisia Won 6-3 Pens.
February 13, 2004 (AFCON-Monastir) Mali 1 – 2 Nigeria.
June 5, 2004 (WCq-Abuja) Nigeria 2 – 0 Rwanda.
June 20, 2004(WCq-Luanda) Angola 1 – 0 Nigeria.
July 3, 2004 (WCq-Abuja) Nigeria 1 – 0 Algeria.
September 5, 2004(WCq-Harare) Zimbabwe 0 – 3 Nigeria.
October 9, 2004 (WCq-Libreville) Gabon 1 – 1 Nigeria
March 26, 2005(WCq-Port Harcourt) Nigeria 2 – 0 Gabon
June 5, 2005 (WCq-Kigali) Rwanda 1 – 1 Nigeria.
June 18, 2005 (WCq-Kano) Nigeria 1 – 1 Angola.
September 4, 2005 (WCq-Oran) Algeria 2 – 5 Nigeria.
October 8, 2005 (WCq-Abuja) Nigeria 5 – 1 Zimbabwe.
January 23, 2006 (AFCON-Port Said) Ghana 0 – 1 Nigeria
January 27, 2006 (AFCON-Port Said) Zimbabwe 0 – 2 Nigeria.
January 31, 2006 (AFCON-Port Said) Senegal 1 – 2 Nigeria.
February 4, 2006 (AFCON-Port Said) Tunisia 1 – 1 Nigeria * 5-6 Pens
7 February 7, 2006 (AFCON-Alexandria) Cote D’Ivoire 1 – 0 Nigeria.
February 9, 2006 (AFCON-Cairo) Senegal 0 -1 Nigeria.
September 2, 2006 (AFCONq-Abuja) Nigeria 2 – 0 Niger.
October 8, 2006 (AFCONq-Maseru) Lesotho 0 – 1 Nigeria.
February 6, 2007 (F-London) Ghana 4 – 1 Nigeria.
June 1, 2008 (WCq- Abuja) Nigeria 2 – 0 South Africa.
June 7, 2008 (WCq-Freetown) Sierra Leone 0 – 1 Nigeria.
June 14, 2008 (WCq- Malabo) Equatorial Guinea 0 – 1 Nigeria.
June 21, 2008 (WCq- Abuja) Nigeria 2 – 0 Equatorial Guinea.
March 29, 2009 (WCq-Maputo) Mozambique 0 -0 Nigeria.
June 2, 2009 (F-Saint Etienne) France 0 – 1 Nigeria.
June 7, 2009 (WCq-Abuja) Nigeria 3 – 0 Kenya.
June 20, 2009 (WCq-Rades) Tunisia 0 -0 Nigeria.
September 6, 2009 (WCq-Abuja) Nigeria 2 – 2 Tunisia.
October 11, 2009 (WCq-Abuja) Nigeria 1 – 0 Mozambique.
November 14, 2009 (WCq-Nairobi) Kenya 2 – 3 Nigeria.
January 6, 2010 (F- Durban) Zambia 0 – 0 Nigeria. (*Sub By Dele Aiyenugba)
January 12, 2010 (AFCON – Benguela) Egypt 3 – 1 Nigeria.
January 16, 2010 (AFCON – Benguela) Benin 0 – 1 Nigeria.
January 20, 2010 (AFCON – Lumbago) Mozambique 0 – 3 Nigeria.
January 25, 2010 (AFCON – Lumbago) Zambia 0 – 0 Nigeria (Aet) 4-5 Pens
January 28, 2010 (AFCON – Luanda) Ghana 1 – 0 Nigeria.
January 30, 2010 (AFCON – Benguela) Algeria 0 – 1 Nigeria.
May 30, 2010 (F- Milton Keynes, UK) Colombia 1 – 1 Nigeria.
June 6, 2010 ( F – Tembisa, S/Africa) Korea DPR 1 – 3 Nigeria
June 12, 2010 (WC – Johannesburg) Argentina 1 – 0 Nigeria
June 17, 2010 (WC – Bloemfontein) Greece 2 – 1 Nigeria.
June 22, 2010 (WC – Durban) Korea Republic 2 – 2 Nigeria.
September 5, 2010 (AFCON q – Calabar) Nigeria 2- 0 Madagascar
October 10, 2010 (AFCON q – Conakry) Guinea 1- 0 Nigeria
June 1, 2011 (F- Abuja) Nigeria 4- 1 Argentina. (*Sub By Dele Aiyenugba)
June 5, 2011 (AFCON q- Addis Ababa) Ethiopia 2-2 Nigeria (*Sub By Dele Aiyenugba)
November 12, 2011 (F-Benin City) Nigeria 0-0 Botswana (*Sub By Austin Ejide)
November 14, 2011(F-Kaduna) Nigeria 2-0 Zambia (*Sub By Austin Ejide)
February 29, 2012 (AFCON q – Kigali) Rwanda 0-0 Nigeria
June 3, 2012 (WCq – Calabar) Nigeria 1-0 Namibia
June 9, 2012 (WCq – Blantyre) Malawi 1-1 Nigeria
June 16, 2012 (AFCON q – Calabar) Nigeria 2-0 Rwanda
September 8, 2012 (AFCON q – Monrovia) Liberia 2-2 Nigeria.
October 13, 2012 (AFCONq – Calabar) Nigeria 6-1 Liberia
January 9, 2013 (F – Faro) Cape Verde 0-0 Nigeria (* Sub Austin Ejide)
January 21, 2013 (AFCON – Nelspruit) Burkina Faso 1-1 Nigeria
January 25, 2013 (AFCON – Nelspruit) Zambia 1-1 Nigeria
January 29, 2013 (Afcon – Rustenburg) Ethiopia 0-2 Nigeria
February 3, 2013 (AFCON – Rustenburg) Cote D’Ivoire 1-2 Nigeria
February 6, 2013 (AFCON – Durban) Mali 1-4 Nigeria
10 February 10, 2013 (AFCON – J’burg) Burkina Faso 0-1 Nigeria
March 23, 2013 (WCq- Calabar) Nigeria 1-1 Kenya
June 1, 2013 (F- Houston) Mexico 2-2 Nigeria (Sub Austin Ejide)
June 5, 2013 (WCq – Nairobi) Kenya 0-1 Nigeria
June 12, 2013 (WCq- Windhoek) Namibia 1-1 Nigeria
June17, 2013 (Confed – Belo Horizonte) Tahiti 1-6 Nigeria
June 20, 2013 (Confed – Salvador) Uruguay 2-1 Nigeria
June 23, 2013 (Confed – Fortaleza) Spain 3-0 Nigeria
September 7, 2013 (WCq – Calabar) Nigeria 2-0 Malawi
13 October 13, 2013 (WCq- Addis Ababa) Ethiopia 1-2 Nigeria
November 16, 2013 (WCq- Calabar) Nigeria 2-0 Ethiopia
November 18, 2013 (F- London) Italy 2-2 Nigeria (Sub Austin Ejide)
March 6, 2014 (F- Georgia) Mexico 0-0 Nigeria (Sub By Austin Ejide)
June 4, 2014 (F- Pennsylvania) Greece 0-0 Nigeria
June 7, 2014 (F- Florida) USA 2-1 Nigeria
June 16, 2014 (WC- Curitiba) Iran 0-0 Nigeria
June 21, 2014 (WC- Cuiaba) Bosnia Herzegovina 0-1 Nigeria
June 25, 2014 (WC-Porto Alegre) Argentina 3-2 Nigeria
June 30, 2014 (WC- Brasilia) France 2-0 Nigeria
October 11, 2014 (AFCONq – Khartoum) Sudan 1-0 Nigeria
October 15, 2014 (AFCONq – Abuja) Nigeria 3-1 Sudan
November 15, 2014 (AFCONq- Pointe Noire) Congo 0-2 Nigeria
November 19, 2014 (AFCONq- Uyo) Nigeria 2-2 South Africa

However, according to Professor Chuka Onwumechili, another leading Nigerian football historian and statistician, Enyeama has 99 games and not 98 as published by Solaja.

“I just read Kunle Solaja’s take on Enyeama’s record of appearances. It was nice that he published Enyeama’s number of games. He arrives at 98 games instead of 99,” Onwumechili said.

“I immediately saw the game that he did not have on his list and  it was Enyeama’s second international which occurred on May 18, 2002 v Jamaica at Loftus Road in London which Nigeria won 1-0.”

According to the professor, Enyeama entered that game at the start of the second half replacing Ike Shorunmu.

Below is the game line up:

Ike Shorunmu (cpt-1) (46th Vincent Enyeama (12)) —Efetobore Sodje (16), Taribo West (6), Eric Ejiofor (19), Ifeanyi Udeze (13) — Pius Ikedia (11), Justice Christopher (15),, James Obiora (7) (80th Mutiu Adepoju (8)) — Emeka Ugali (28) (35th Benedict Akwuegbu (14)), Yakubu Aiyegbeni (27) (69th Garba Lawal (17)), and Bartholomew Ogbeche (9).

Onwumechili also furnishes us with a link to the BBC text commentary of that game


http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport3/worldcup2002/hi/team_pages/nigeria/newsid_1995000/1995607.stm

“You will note that BBC does also identify that Enyeama came in as a sub for Shorunmu at the start of the second half of that game. Perhaps inadvertently, Solaja leaves out that game and thus he arrives at 98 games instead of 99 games. Unfortunately, Solaja did not leave an email or I would have emailed him directly to point the mistake out,” Onwumechili said.

If Kunle Solaja agrees with Professor Chuka Onwumechili, then Vincent Enyeama will undoubtedly get his one hundredth cap when Nigeria play Bolivia in Uyo on March 26, 2015.


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Sunshine Queens coach, Olujohungbe targets double

April 3, 2015, 12:15 am
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Sunshine Queens Coach, Kayode Olujohungbe has stated his target for the South-West outfit ahead of the upcoming Nigeria Women Premier League 2014/ 2015 season.

The Nigeria Women League board held its congress on March 24 where the 2nd of May was approved for the commencement of the new NWPL season.

Speaking to Naijafootball247.com, Olujohungbe said his target is to win both the League and Federation Cup and is optimistic he can make up for the mistakes of last season.

“I want to win the double next season and we will work very hard to achieve that feat. We went so close last season and lost it eventually but this time around we will put all the mistakes right.

"At some point the girls took their feet off the pedal when they were on top form especially during the Africa Women Championship break. The girls lost form and concentration. They found it difficult to return to full fitness and that’s why we lost in the two competitions. But I am very confident things will go on smoothly in the upcoming season." said Olujohungbe

Sunshine Queens were one of just two only teams (alongside Rivers Angels) that had 100% home record as they won all their home games, picking a total of 30 points from their respective home matches and Olujohungbe emphasized his team's resolve.

“We are going for every competition and that’s why the new girls we have brought in to the team are from top clubs in the Nigeria Women Premier League. My aim is to become double champions of Nigeria. If you look back at our performance, you will know it is very possible," he boasted.

The Ondo State government sponsored club has acquired the services of former Rivers Angles duo, Aminat Yakubu and Regina Macfancy ahead of the next season. Both players have represented Nigeria at the U-17 Fifa Women’s World Cup in recent times.

Former Angels forward, Aminat Yakubu was in the Flamingoes team at last year’s U-17 Fifa Women’s World Cup in Costa Rica scoring  a goal in Nigeria’s 3-0 win over  Mexico in the Group stage.

She was also on target for the Flamingoes team that thrashed the host, Azerbaijan 11-0 at the U-17 Women’s World Cup in 2012.

In the same vein, Regina Macfancy who is a defensive midfield stalwart featured at the U-17 World Cup in 2008 and was also in Kadiri Ikana’s Africa Women Championship team to Equatorial Guinea in 2012.

Olujohungbe who is a former assistant coach of Ondo State's men team Sunshine Stars joined the Queens mid last season, taking over from Kennedy Boboye who moved in the opposite direction.

Olujohungbe would lead the team to the 2014 Federation Cup final where they lost to Rivers Angels and also finished third on the NWPL table behind Pelican Stars and Rivers Angels.

They won 11 and lost 9 of their 20 league games played last season, scoring 25 goals while conceding 20 number of goals.
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Why Pillars can perform Kano miracle

April 4, 2015, 2:15 am
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Kano Pillars before their 1pm fixture in Abuja in January
By Fisayo Dairo

NIgerian League champions Kano Pillars have a date with destiny on Easter Saturday against Moroccan Champions Moghreb Atletic de Tetouan in a second leg first round clash in the 2015 CAF Champions League.

One wonders the sort of coincidence that this game brings, clashing with Easter Saturday, a day when Christians celebrating Easter across the globe believe the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ (over 2000 years ago) was still in the tomb, waiting for the greatest miracle of all time to resurrect back to life. Yes! That miracle happened, and so this writer believes another miracle, this time on the pitch can happen for Kano Pillars. We have had the Damman Miracle, we witnessed the Istanbul Miracle and I think another one may just be in the offing.

To refresh your memory, Kano Pillars lost by a whopping 4 goals to nil away in Tetouan (a fortnight ago to Easter Saturday), against this team that featured at the 2014 FIFA Club World Cup in Morocco. Mohsine Iajour was the man that netted a hattrick against the Nigerian Champions and makes this a mountainous task for the Northerners.

It is quite unthinkable to imagine a team with a 4-0 cushion will fail to progress over two legs BUT this is Africa where anything CAN happen. It has to be said that despite their wonderful preparations for this year's CAFCL, the armed robbery attack on the Pillars team on Thursday March 5, 2015 seemingly left them in tatters with key players suffering gunshot wounds. One of them was Gambo Mohammed who is still out till the present moment.

Well, that is bygone and Pillars themselves realized what task they have in their hands and started strategizing for this second leg immediately after that embarrassing first leg loss. First was their decison to have today's game played at 2pm Nigerian time which should serve as some sort of advantage with the weather.

TIME FACTOR

Many have argued that Pillars themselves would be affected by the weather but I dare state here that during the last Glo Premier League Super Four-Invitational Tournament in Abuja, Pillars played their first match at 1pm and their last four games at 3pm, this is within range because I was in Abuja for those games and I think a January weather in Abuja can't be too far from what is obtainable in Kano.

KEY PLAYERS

Furthermore, the absence of key men such as Gambo Mohammed and rather unfortunately Christian Obiozor is another reason to be pessimistic but then Adamu Hassan was Pillars' topscorer in the league last term and along with the likes of Abdul Haruna (who can be a handful aerially) and Adamu Mohammed, Pillars have enough going forward.

POSITIVES FROM THE FIRST LEG

You may be surprised to wonder if there are any positives from a 4-0 bashing but yes there is one (for me). After Iajour's 7 minutes of madness/brilliance in the first half, Pillars did not concede in the 2nd half until very late in the game. This means Pillars are not as bad as what they did in the first half and Tetouan may have also been flattered in that first half. They also managed to create a couple of clear cut chances which were not converted.

THEY WILL CREATE CHANCES

I'm sure very many will agree with me on this. A team that boasts of some enterprising wingers such as Tony Edjomariegwe, Ezekiel Mbah, Azeez Shobowale and other attackers will create good chances but they have to be calm and composed to finish it off.

The fans will be there, adrenalin will be pumping to the heavens but yes, football is a game of pressure. In the face of everything, be calm and see it out even if you don't get the early goal(s) you may be dreaming of.

I HAVE HISTORY HERE:

The last time any Nigerian team faced a Moroccan side was at the African Nations Championships (CHAN 2014), Nigeria trailed Morocco 3-0 at half time in that quarter-final duel at the Cape Town Stadium in South Africa but guess what, Stephen Keshi's boys rose from the dead to level in the second half and win in extra-time.

If that team that included Pillars' Rabiu Ali can score three goals in the second half alone, folks, Pillars can score 5 in 90 minutes.

The last time a Nigerian side achieved something close to this comeback was in 2011 when Sunshine Stars lost 4-1 in Angola against Recreativo do Libolo and they came back in Ijebu-Ode to secure their 3-0 win and progress.

IAJOUR FACTOR

This is the fourth time (in my memory) that Mohsine Iajour will come up against Nigerian oppositions. While he always laugh at the start, he's never had a last laugh.

 - At the AYC in 2005, Iajour scored twice against Nigeria in the semi-finals including a first half extra-time goal. With seconds remaining, Obinna Nsofor scored a solo effort to take the game to penalties where Nigeria won.

 - Later at the WYC in Holland, Iajour was one of the topscorers but Nigeria thrashed his Moroccan side in the semi finals.

 - Iajour also scored one of the 3 goals in the CHAN game I mentioned earlier but ended up on the losing side again.

 MATCH DETAILS: Kano Pillars vs Moghreb Tetouan
 VENUE: Sani Abacha Satdium, Kano
 TIME: 2PM
 Referee: Kouame Ndri (Coted'voire)

It is the Easter weekend and I have this feeling in me that (sounding like my Dad now, a Pastor), Something that will shake the foundations of soccer in Nigeria nay Africa is about to happen in the City of Kano.

I won't be able to watch but I will definitely keep tabs on it knowing that in the season if Sai Sai, Sai Masu Gida will rewrite the history books.

Happy Easter y'all. ALOHA

Picture: Kano Pillars' team before their 1pm fixture in Abuja in January.
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LMC Chairman Stresses Need for Improved Club Management

April 6, 2015, 7:02 am
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Chairman of the League Management Company, LMC, Shehu Dikko has enjoined the three Nigerian clubs knocked out of their CAF Continental competitions to review their participation towards ascertaining what went wrong rather than embarking on blame games.

Dikko on his personal social media, twitter handle said, “Congrats to Warri Wolves for qualifying to the next round. As for Enyimba, Kano Pillars and Dolphins, it’s not time for blame games but time for sober reflection and for everyone to put his thinking cap and review what went wrong”.

He said the review is necessary to determine what corrections need to be applied in the short and long term to ensure better performances in the future.

According to Dikko, “and determine what corrections need to be done both short and long term to ensure good performances in the future.”

He said such interrogation must start with work to ensure the stability of club administration, finances and youth development.

Shehu Dikko also took time out tome congratulate Warri Wolves for their qualification to the group stage of the CAF Confederations Cup following a 2-0 aggregate win over Dedebit FC of Ethiopia in the 2nd leg of the 2nd round qualifying match.

Wolves won the first leg 2-0 in Warri a fortnight ago through goals by Oghenekaro Etebo and Gbolahan Salami.

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Coach predicts tough times for Iheanacho

April 13, 2015, 12:56 am
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Manu Garba
Head coach of the Flying Eagles, Nigeria’s U20 side, Manu Garba has told naijafootball247.com that Manchester City’s Kelechi Iheanacho may not have it easy breaking into the side.

Iheanacho was the star of the U17 team two years ago when they won the FIFA U17 World Cup and since moved to Manchester City but Garba says it will not be business as usual.

“In this team there will be no automatic shirt for any of the players,” Garba told naijafootball247.com.

“If you remember in the qualifiers for the Africa Youth Championships, he was invited for the games against Tanzania and started on the bench in both games.

“When he comes back for the World Cup preparations, he has to show us he is capable of either picking a shirt or at least making the twenty one man list to the World Cup,” Garba told naijafootball247.com.

In the absence of Kelechi Iheanacho, Taiwo Awoniyi has blossomed into the most dangerous striker in the team, emerging their top scorer and only recently aiding the U23s to victory in Zambia with a brace.

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