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By Chimaobi Jose Nzoromobi #SportyTalk. For years, Nigerian football has lived with a contradiction. The country’s national teams sparkle on the continental and global stage, yet its clubs continue to struggle in CAF competitions, unable to recapture the dominance of the early 2000s. What once felt like a temporary dip has now hardened into a pattern. A review of their last 30 outings in the CAF Champions League and Confederation Cup offers a troubling portrait of inconsistency, unpreparedness and widening gaps between Nigeria and the continent’s elite. The 2025/26 season has done little to soften that reality. Rivers United, Remo Stars, Kwara United and Abia Warriors were Nigeria’s latest hopefuls. But like many before them, their campaigns were marred by early exits and decisive away losses. Remo Stars, who began brightly with a 4–0 win over US Zilimadjou, fell apart in later rounds. Rivers United bruised their way to the group stage but were outclassed 3–0 in their opening match ...

  By Chimaobi J Nzoromobi  Former Super Falcons head coach, Randy Waldrum, has raised fresh allegations against the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), accusing the body of mismanaging funds allocated for the team's preparation ahead of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup. Speaking in a recent interview, Waldrum claimed that FIFA released $960,000 to the NFF specifically for the Super Falcons’ World Cup preparations. According to him, the global football body also approved payment for 22 technical staff members , yet he was only provided with 11 personnel during the build-up to the tournament. Waldrum further alleged that despite the substantial funding, the NFF failed to provide basic logistical support. “ I don’t know why Nigerians don’t question these kinds of things, ” he said, expressing frustration that even flight tickets could not be provided , and the team played no international friendlies during the crucial preparation stages. His remarks have rekindled discussion...

  By Chimaobi J Nzoromobi  Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup has once again exposed deep-rooted problems in the administration of football in the country. Amid growing public frustration, former Super Eagles captain John Obi Mikel has openly expressed interest in taking up a leadership role within the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF)—but only in a corruption-free environment . Mikel’s declaration has reignited the long-standing debate about whether Nigeria’s football should finally be entrusted to those who have lived, bled, and succeeded for the game— our ex-internationals . His stance not only carries weight but also represents a powerful case study for why former players should lead football reforms in Nigeria. 1. They Understand Modern Football Better Than Career Administrators Today’s football is driven by science, technology, professionalism, and long-term planning. Ex-internationals like Mikel have spent their lives in elite football environ...

  By Chimaobi J Nzoromobi  The Confederation of African Football (CAF) on Wednesday came under pressure after failing to provide a clear answer on when participating teams will be guaranteed the release of their Europe-based players for next month’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). During a special AFCON briefing session attended by coaches and officials of all 24 qualified teams, former Super Eagles manager and current head coach of Benin Republic, Gernot Rohr, raised a key concern regarding player availability. Rohr asked CAF to specify when national teams could expect their foreign-based players to arrive in camp in order to begin final preparations for the continental showpiece. However, CAF officials could not offer a definite response. Instead, they stated that the matter rests entirely with FIFA, which determines the official release window and enforces related regulations. Rohr pressed further for clarity, but the briefing became more tense when a member of Senegal’s...

  The 2025 Ardova Handball Premier League (AHPL) Phase Two began in thrilling fashion on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, as top teams in both the men’s and women’s categories delivered intense matchups at the NIS Indoor Sports Hall, Surulere, and Rowe Park, Yaba, Lagos. The opening day showcased skill, grit, and early statements of intent from title contenders across the league. MEN’S CATEGORY – DAY 1 RESULTS Safety Shooters got the day underway with a commanding 25–15 victory over Osun United in the 7:30am fixture, setting a powerful tone for their campaign. Benue Buffaloes, however, struggled to keep up with the fast-paced Rima Strikers, falling 16–36 in one of the most lopsided results of the day at 9:00am. Lagos Seasiders thrilled their home fans but eventually bowed 21–28 to a clinical Niger United side in the 10:30am encounter. Correction Boys produced a standout performance in the afternoon, overpowering De Defenders 34–27 in a high-scoring affair. The final men’s match ...

By Chimaobi J Nzoromobi  The Africa For Peace Sports Festival mini-football tournament has successfully concluded its opening phase, delivering weeks of thrilling action and setting the stage for an electrifying knockout round. After 48 fiercely contested matches, eight standout teams have booked their places in the next round: Oyoka Boys FC , United Friends Stars , Lord Mark , Sokoh Estate , Pipeline Dragons FC , Chimoski FC , Fulani FC , and Daudu United . These teams will now battle for the tournament’s grand prize of ₦1 million , proudly sponsored by Ambassador Sheriff Mulade , whose support continues to elevate the prestige and impact of the festival. The knockout stage for the 20–45 years category is scheduled to kick off on Saturday, November 29 , with expectations high for even tougher contests as the race to the finals intensifies. Meanwhile, excitement is building for the commencement of the senior category (46 years and above) Allstars , which will take centre stag...

  By Chimaobi J Nzoromobi  Matchday 14 of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) produced 10 goals across seven tightly contested fixtures, with Warri Wolves being held to a 1–1 draw by Kun Khalifat FC at the Ozoro Township Stadium. FULL-TIME IN OZORO: WARRI WOLVES 1–1 KUN KHALIFAT Warri Wolves struck early through Prince Ebhohon, who put the hosts ahead in the 6th minute after a sharp attacking move. Kun Khalifat responded strongly and deservedly levelled in the 38th minute, converting from a well-delivered corner kick to make it 1–1. The second half saw Wolves make tactical changes: 48' – Shemayi Amatesiro IN, Bakare Emmanuel OUT 65' – Ohanu Justus & Israel Oladeji IN; Othuke Egbo & Mayi Seth OUT Neither side could find a winner as the match ended in a stalemate. OTHER MATCHDAY 14 RESULTS Abia Warriors 0–0 Bendel Insurance Kwara United 0–0 Shooting Stars Nasarawa United 3–0 El Kanemi Warriors Rangers International 1–0 Niger Tornadoes Remo Stars 2–0 Barau Wikki To...

  By Chimaobi J Nzoromobi  The 2025 Africa for Peace Sports Festival delivered another thrilling chapter on Saturday, 22nd November, as Matchday Two exploded with 34 goals across nine matches , producing emphatic victories, tight contests and major shifts in group dynamics at the A4P Games Village Sports Arena. With 10 million naira at stake, teams raised their intensity and attacking efficiency, resulting in one of the highest-scoring matchdays of the tournament so far. Goals Galore as Teams Battle for Supremacy The day opened at 3:00pm with a tight encounter as Dynamic FC earned their first win, beating FC Chimooski 1–0. Minutes later, Pipeline Dragons and Bristol FC shared the spoils in a 1–1 draw, taking Matchday Two’s tally to two goals after the first two fixtures. The early evening matches delivered even more excitement. Oyoka Boys continued their perfect run with a 2–0 victory over Blessed FC , pushing their total goals scored in the competition to six . A...

  By Chimaobi J Nzoromobi  Warri Wolves will look to reignite their campaign when they welcome Kun Khalifat FC on Matchday 14 of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), scheduled for Sunday, 23rd November, at 16:00 in the Ozoro Township Stadium. The Seasiders enter the clash after suffering a narrow 2–1 defeat away to Rivers United, a setback that highlighted areas needing improvement, particularly in the final third Wolves will aim for a strong response to reclaim momentum. Kun Khalifat FC arrive with confidence after securing a 1–1 draw against Nasarawa United in their last outing. The visitors have shown resilience in recent weeks and will be targeting a positive result on the road. FULL MATCHDAY 14 FIXTURES (All games on 23rd Nov, 16:00): Abia Warriors vs Bendel Insurance Kano Pillars vs Ikorodu City Katsina United vs Enyimba Kwara United vs Shooting Stars Nasarawa United vs El Kanemi Warriors Plateau United vs Rivers United Rangers International vs Niger T...

  By Chimaobi Jose Nzoromobi  Former Nigerian international Sam Sodje has described Morocco’s dominant performance at the 2025 CAF Awards Ceremony as a clear testament to the country’s long-term investment in football development and infrastructure. At the glamorous ceremony held on Wednesday night, Morocco swept five major categories — a historic achievement that immediately set the continent talking. The North African nation clinched CAF Player of the Year , CAF Women’s Player of the Year , CAF Young Player of the Year , CAF Women’s Young Player of the Year , and CAF Best Goalkeeper , underscoring its growing football influence across Africa. Sodje said Morocco’s clean sweep did not happen by accident but was the outcome of deliberate planning, massive infrastructural upgrades, and a strong commitment to youth development. According to him, Morocco’s investment model — from world-class training facilities to a structured academy system and consistent national team program...

 By Chimaobi Jose Nzoromobi  The excitement is building as the Africa for Peace Sports Festival resumes for Match Day Two on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at the A4P Games Village Sports Arena in Ugolo, near Osubi, Delta State. The tournament, which features a grand prize of ₦10 million , continues to draw crowds of football lovers, community supporters, and enthusiasts eager to enjoy high-energy grassroots football. Fans are expected to troop in for another thrilling day of competition, enthusiasm, entertainment, and community bonding as talented young and veteran players take to the pitch in a series of tightly-contested fixtures. Match Day Two presents a full lineup of games beginning at 3:00pm, with teams such as FC Chimooski, Dynamic FC, Pipeline Dragons, Bristol FC, Blessed FC, Oyoka Boys, and many others battling for dominance. The day’s schedule includes: FC Chimooski vs Dynamic FC – 3:00pm Pipeline Dragons vs Bristol FC – 3:40pm Blessed FC vs Oyoka Boys – 4:...

  By Chimaobi Jose Nzoromobi  Nigeria’s football reputation — once feared across Africa and respected globally — is now in unmistakable decline. The signs are everywhere: from repeated failures to qualify for major tournaments to the absence of a clear identity in how the national teams play. At the centre of this crisis is the nation’s technical direction, a pillar no serious football country treats lightly. Yet Nigeria has attempted to build success on a shaky foundation. Austin Eguavoen, the long-serving figure who has operated within the national teams structure for 24 years, currently serves as the Technical Director of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF). His name has become inseparable from virtually every national team setup: Golden Eaglets, Flying Eagles, Dream Team, and the Super Eagles — a team he has coached four different times. Today, he oversees the entire technical strategy of Nigerian football, from youth development to coaching programmes and national te...

  By Chimaobi J Nzoromobi  Sokoh Estate FC 1 – 0 Lord Mark FA Sokoh Estate FC (SEFC) secured a narrow 1–0 win over Lord Mark FA (LMFA) in a tense and physically demanding encounter. SEFC started with a promising free-kick opportunity but failed to convert. Both sides struggled to establish rhythm, often settling for speculative shots whenever space opened. The LMFA goalkeeper had a shaky moment when he spilled a shot but quickly recovered, later making a brave 1v1 save to keep the game level. SEFC’s goalkeeper was equally occupied, producing several key stops—including one following a disputed penalty call. SEFC’s repeated unnecessary fouls allowed LMFA to stay dangerous, and the first half ended 0–0. The second half mirrored the first with both teams battling for control. SEFC ramped up the pressure but still looked vulnerable to counterattacks. A wild sequence decided the match: SEFC missed a clear chance, LMFA countered and missed an even bigger opportunity, and from th...

By Chimaobi J Nzoromobi  The Nigeria Super Eagles delivered a commanding performance to defeat Gabon 4-1 after extra time in a gripping World Cup qualifying playoff. The match, held in Rabat, Morocco, saw Nigeria edge possession with 51% and create far more chances, registering 17 total shots compared to Gabon's 4. The Eagles broke the deadlock in the 78th minute with a goal from Adams Akor. Gabon responded with goal by Nze S. (85’) pushing the contest into extra time after a 1-1 stalemate at full time. The extra time period was all Nigeria, starting with Ejuke C. scoring in the 97th minute to make it 2-1. Osimhen V. then took center stage, scoring twice (103’ and 110’) and sealing the win. Osimhen’s performance, alongside solid defending and persistent pressure, made the difference for the Super Eagles. Gabon, who managed only four shots and were forced to defend for much of the match, could not keep up with Nigeria’s intensity in the additional 30 minutes. The match saw a total o...

By Chimaobi J Nzoromobi  The countdown has begun for the 2nd edition of the Africa for Peace Mini Football Sports Festival , set to kick off on Saturday  November 15th . The  tournament will feature 26 teams competing across two categories — Junior (20–45 years) and Senior (46 years and above) — with 22 matches scheduled. Each game will include 10–15-minute halftime breaks , leading up to the grand finale on December 7th . According to the Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) , Edema Fuludu , the rules and regulations have been unveiled to ensure a smooth and competitive event. He described the festival as “a celebration of sportsmanship, peace, and unity across Africa.” Talent scouts are expected to be in attendance to spot outstanding players for the Delta State Mini Football and Nigeria National Mini Football teams. In addition to a total ₦10 million prize pool , awards will be presented to the highest goal scorer , best player , best goalkeeper ...

  Former Super Eagles defender, Sam Sodje, has strongly condemned the  continued failure to settle players’ outstanding bonuses and allowances, describing the situation as “unacceptable and embarrassing” for a national team of Nigeria’s stature. Sodje, who represented Nigeria at international level, said the recurring issue of unpaid entitlements has become a major distraction and reflects poorly on football administration in the country. “It’s disappointing that we’re still talking about unpaid bonuses in 2025. These players have given their best for the country and deserve to be treated with respect. The NFF must take full responsibility and ensure these payments are made immediately,” Sodje said. His comments follow reports that the Super Eagles boycotted training in Morocco on Tuesday over unpaid bonuses dating back to 2019, including allowances for qualifying for the 2025 AFCON and the 2026 World Cup playoffs. Despite his criticism of the Nigeria Football Federatio...

  By Chimaobi J Nzoromobi  The Super Eagles of Nigeria have boycotted their Tuesday training session in Morocco over unresolved issues surrounding long-standing unpaid bonuses and allowances. In an official statement jointly issued by the players and staff, the team confirmed that the entire squad, including officials, refused to train due to the delay in receiving their entitlements. “The full squad including officials boycotted training today in Morocco because of the unresolved issues with outstanding payments. The Super Eagles is awaiting a quick resolution to continue the preparation for Thursday’s game with Gabon,” the statement read in part. Reports indicate that none of the players have received their allowances or bonuses for qualifying for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and the 2026 FIFA World Cup playoffs — payments that have reportedly been pending since 2019. The boycott comes just two days before Nigeria’s crucial playoff fixture against Gabon, rai...

  Manchester City marked Pep Guardiola’s 1000th game as a manager in emphatic style, cruising to a 3-0 victory over Liverpool in Sunday’s Premier League clash at the Etihad Stadium. Erling Haaland opened the scoring in the 29th minute with a trademark finish after a clever buildup from the hosts. Nico González doubled City’s advantage just before halftime, striking in the third minute of stoppage time (45’+3) to put Guardiola’s men firmly in control. Jeremy Doku added the third in the 63rd minute with a solo effort that sealed the result and capped off a dominant display from the defending champions. The win not only extended City’s unbeaten home run but also made Guardiola’s 1000th game as a manager one to remember — a milestone achieved with flair, precision, and a performance worthy of his legacy.

  By Chimaobi J Nzoromobi  Ikorodu City recorded a stunning 2–0 away victory over Warri Wolves in their Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) clash on Sunday at the Ozoro Township Stadium. The visitors  made their effort count with two well-taken goals before the break, leaving the home side chasing the game. Despite Warri Wolves’ spirited attempts to fight back in the second half, Ikorodu City’s defense held firm to preserve their lead and secure an impressive three points on the road. The result comes as a major setback for Warri Wolves, who had previously maintained a strong home record this season, while Ikorodu City will take confidence from the win as they continue their push up the NPFL standings. It was an afternoon to forget for the Seasiders’ supporters in Ozoro, but a memorable one for the visitors from Lagos, who left the stadium to the applause of their traveling fans.

  By Chimaobi J Nzoromobi  Football fans are in for a thrilling showdown as Delta All-Stars International and Ijaw Ex-Professionals All-Stars booked their places in the grand finale of the Ofughara Peace and Unity Cup 2025 . In the second semi-final played on Sunday at the Ogbe Primary School Field, Effurun , Delta All-Stars International edged Uvwvie All-Stars 4–2 on penalties after a goalless draw in regulation time. It was a tight contest, with both teams creating chances but failing to find the back of the net before the decisive shootout. Earlier, Ijaw Ex-Professionals All-Stars had advanced to the final after a pulsating 2–2 draw with Ubeji All-Stars , eventually triumphing 2–1 in a dramatic penalty shootout. The highly anticipated final between Delta All-Stars International and Ijaw Ex-Professionals is scheduled for Sunday, November 16, 2025 , and promises to be a spectacle of skill, passion, and sportsmanship — true to the tournament’s theme of promoting pe...

  By Chimaobi J Nzoromobi  It was drama, passion, and high emotions on display as Ijaw Ex-Professionals All-Stars booked their place in the final of the Ofugara 2025 Football Tournament , defeating Ubeji All-Stars 2–1 on penalties after an intense 2–2 draw in regulation time. The thrilling semi-final encounter took place at the Ogbe Primary School Field , where fans turned out in large numbers to witness one of the most pulsating games of the competition so far. Ijaw Ex-Professionals drew first blood in the 15th minute , sending their supporters into wild celebration. But Ubeji All-Stars hit back before halftime , ensuring parity at the break. After the restart, the Ijaws once again regained the lead early in the second half , showcasing their fighting spirit and experience. However, Ubeji refused to bow out , drawing level again to make it 2–2 and forcing the game into penalties. In the ensuing shootout, Ijaw Ex-Professionals held their nerve to win 2–1 , booking their...

  By Chimaobi Jose Nzoromobi  The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has released a 24-man list of players invited to represent the Super Eagles in the 2026 FIFA World Cup African play-off tournament. Head coach Finidi George has assembled a mix of experienced internationals and emerging talents as Nigeria looks to secure qualification for the global showpiece set to hold in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Among the goalkeepers named are Stanley Nwabali of Chippa United (South Africa), Amas Obasogie of Singida Black Stars (Tanzania), and Maduka Okoye who plies his trade with Udinese in Italy. The defensive lineup features captain William Troost-Ekong (Al-Kholood, Saudi Arabia), Calvin Bassey (Fulham, England), Oluwasemilogo Ajayi (Hull City, England), Bright Osayi-Samuel (Birmingham City, England), and Bruno Onyemaechi (Olympiakos, Greece). Also included are Chidozie Awaziem (Nantes, France), Zaidu Sanusi (FC Porto, Portugal), and Benjamin Fredericks (Dend...

  By Chimaobi Jose Nzoromobi  Former Super Eagles defender, Sam Sodje , has thrown his support behind Nigerian striker Victor Boniface , urging him to stay focused and rediscover his top form despite recent setbacks in his career. Boniface, who is currently on loan at Werder Bremen from Bayer Leverkusen , has endured a difficult spell this season, struggling with consistency and facing criticism from his club manager over his performances. Sodje, speaking on the striker’s situation, expressed confidence that Boniface has the talent and mental strength to bounce back stronger, describing the current dip as a temporary phase in his development. The 23-year-old forward has faced a string of disappointments in recent months — including a failed transfer move to Saudi Arabia , an aborted deal with AC Milan , and ultimately being loaned out by Bayer Leverkusen despite an impressive start to his Bundesliga career. Sodje, however, believes such challenges are part of a football...

  The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has announced a groundbreaking ₦2 billion commercial partnership aimed at revolutionizing the league’s media, data, and broadcast operations. In a major step toward modernizing domestic football, the NPFL signed a five-year data management and commercialization agreement with Inview Technologies Nigeria Limited and AS Production Hub Limited . The deal agreed during a meeting in Abuja,includes a mandatory upfront payment of ₦800 million as an activation fee, underscoring the partners’ strong financial commitment and confidence in the league’s commercial potential. According to the NPFL management, the partnership is expected to enhance the visibility and global appeal of the league by improving the quality of live broadcasts, digital content distribution, and data analytics for clubs and fans. Industry observers describe the agreement as one of the most ambitious financial commitments in the history of Nigerian domestic club footba...

By Chimaobi Jose Nzoromobi  The Ofugara Peace and Unity Cup has reached an electrifying semi-final stage following a weekend of intense quarter-final action that kept fans on the edge of their seats at the Ogbe Primary School field. In one of the standout quarter-final clashes, Uvwvie All-Stars proved too strong for Delta Strikers All-Stars , securing a commanding 2–0 victory to book their place in the semi-finals. Elsewhere, it was a dramatic shootout between Ijaw Ex-Professionals and Udu Ex-Professionals after a 1–1 draw in regulation time. The Ijaw side held their nerve to win 5–4 on penalties , advancing to the last four. Ubeji All-Stars also had to dig deep, edging Daudu All-Stars on penalties after another tense encounter ended in a stalemate at full time. Similarly, Delta All-Stars International triumphed over Planners All-Stars in a goalless draw that was decided from the spot. With the stage now set, the semi-final fixtures promise another round of fireworks:...