Jamaica coach, John Barnes, has predicted that Nigeria would give his team a very good match when they clash in a friendly in London on February 11.
"Nigeria is one of the World's top teams, so it will be a competitive match for us," said the former England and Liverpool star of the game that will be played at Millwall FC’s Stadium.
"We are now stronger than we have been for some time as a national team. We have quality players that we will blend together with the right balance, spirit and mentality, but of course we also need the right tactics.
"I would say to fans from across the country, come and enjoy the game and expect a good performance!"
Nigeria have named a strong squad for the encounter, which they will use to prepare for their World Cup qualifying game against Mozambique in March.
Jamaica’s Reggae Boys have, within 14 months, leapt to 66th place in the FIFA world rankings.
They won the Caribbean Championship last month and for this game, they have called up several English Premier League players including Marlon King of Hull City, Ricardo Gardner from Bolton and Ricardo Fuller of Stoke City.
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Portsmouth Boss: "Utaka Not Match-Fit"
Portsmouth boss Tony Adams says Nigeria attacker John Utaka isn't fit enough to be considered to play.
The winger has not played since last month but Adams says the Nigerian is still unfit.
"I think John needs some games," Adams told The News.
"He has been out for the best part of five months with various injuries and that is a long time.
"He has played games and not had the best of times, but I think he needs to get match fit.
"He can do a job in the 4-3-3 formation. I've put him on a couple of times and he hasn't really grasped the opportunity.
"But we will see what he can do when his chance comes along as I'm sure it will."
The winger has not played since last month but Adams says the Nigerian is still unfit.
"I think John needs some games," Adams told The News.
"He has been out for the best part of five months with various injuries and that is a long time.
"He has played games and not had the best of times, but I think he needs to get match fit.
"He can do a job in the 4-3-3 formation. I've put him on a couple of times and he hasn't really grasped the opportunity.
"But we will see what he can do when his chance comes along as I'm sure it will."
Yakubu Cautious Over Comeback
ngland-based forward Yakubu Aiyegbeni is being careful with his comeback at Everton.
The Nigeria international is out for the season with an Achilles injury and told evertonTV: "I feel good, my leg is good and my condition is good but it's a serious injury so I need to wait and be patient.
"It's difficult but you just need to forget about it and just think about when you'll be back. It's the kind of person I am - patient and calm.
"But I've never had an injury like this so I'm just being patient, thinking about the future and not feeling bad for myself.
"It's life, sometimes when you're a footballer you get injured and you have to accept that."
The Nigeria international is out for the season with an Achilles injury and told evertonTV: "I feel good, my leg is good and my condition is good but it's a serious injury so I need to wait and be patient.
"It's difficult but you just need to forget about it and just think about when you'll be back. It's the kind of person I am - patient and calm.
"But I've never had an injury like this so I'm just being patient, thinking about the future and not feeling bad for myself.
"It's life, sometimes when you're a footballer you get injured and you have to accept that."
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
AYC SEMI'S
The stage is set for the African Youth Championship semi final contest.With World cup tickets secured, Nigeria, Cameroon, South Africa and Ghana go for glory and prestige when they contest the semi finals of the 16th Edition of the AYC in Kigali, Rwanda Wednesday.
In a Championship where the semi finalists were decided in a dramatic group final matches, none of the four teams got there easily and they had to brave the last day pressure to secure their semi final tickets.
The four semi finalists, join hosts Egypt to defend the African flag in the Under 20 FIFA World cup finals this year in Egypt this year.
South Africa came to Rwanda as underdogs, but their exciting and fairytale run has endeared them positively to the local spectators. South African coach Serame Letsoaka already satisfied with the World Cup ticket wants to confirm to the World that South African football is a live and full of potential as the Country seeks to bury the ghosts of the 2007-8 World cup and CAN failed campaign.
Now Letsoaka parades his troop against seasoned fighters Ghana who have had a fairly good run in this campaign. Like South Africa, Ghana under the hands of Sellar Tetteh, won two matches and drew one in their qualifying matches. The Ghana side also boasts of one of the most exciting ball players in the competition. The Ghana South African clash kicks off at 1400 hrs.
In a later semi final tie kicking off at 1745 hrs, Nigeria and Cameroon renew their rivalry with both coaches cautious in their comments. Ladan Bosso of Nigeria predicted an explosive showdown urging his side to show more team work.
"We are concetrating on building team work. This is very critical against a team like Cameroon. We have the players with all the skills, but cohesion and team work is very critical. Any match involving Cameroon and Nigeria is never easy," he said.
His Cameroonian counterpart Alain Wabo was also cautious, acknowledging that Nigeria are good fighters and that their confrontation is always tricky and demanding. "We have a good team and ofcourse Nigeria are also good. So the tie should be explosive."
Nigeria and Cameroon have engaged each other on many occasions and the AYC showdown should be appetising contest to behold.
In a Championship where the semi finalists were decided in a dramatic group final matches, none of the four teams got there easily and they had to brave the last day pressure to secure their semi final tickets.
The four semi finalists, join hosts Egypt to defend the African flag in the Under 20 FIFA World cup finals this year in Egypt this year.
South Africa came to Rwanda as underdogs, but their exciting and fairytale run has endeared them positively to the local spectators. South African coach Serame Letsoaka already satisfied with the World Cup ticket wants to confirm to the World that South African football is a live and full of potential as the Country seeks to bury the ghosts of the 2007-8 World cup and CAN failed campaign.
Now Letsoaka parades his troop against seasoned fighters Ghana who have had a fairly good run in this campaign. Like South Africa, Ghana under the hands of Sellar Tetteh, won two matches and drew one in their qualifying matches. The Ghana side also boasts of one of the most exciting ball players in the competition. The Ghana South African clash kicks off at 1400 hrs.
In a later semi final tie kicking off at 1745 hrs, Nigeria and Cameroon renew their rivalry with both coaches cautious in their comments. Ladan Bosso of Nigeria predicted an explosive showdown urging his side to show more team work.
"We are concetrating on building team work. This is very critical against a team like Cameroon. We have the players with all the skills, but cohesion and team work is very critical. Any match involving Cameroon and Nigeria is never easy," he said.
His Cameroonian counterpart Alain Wabo was also cautious, acknowledging that Nigeria are good fighters and that their confrontation is always tricky and demanding. "We have a good team and ofcourse Nigeria are also good. So the tie should be explosive."
Nigeria and Cameroon have engaged each other on many occasions and the AYC showdown should be appetising contest to behold.
AYC CRACKER: WE’RE GOING FOR BROKE – HARUNA, EDILE
Under-20 national team, Flying Eagles’ skipper, Lukman Haruna (Apache) has fired the first war-cry for the squad, as they prepare to battle Les Lionceux of Cameroun in Wednesday’s second semi-final of the African Youth Championship in Kigali, Rwanda.
The AS Monaco of France rising star said Wednesday’s game will be a crunch and declared that the Flying Eagles do not want to be crushed by their eternal boogie team.
Haruna, who also captained most of the players during their days with the under-17 squad, Golden Eaglets, en route to winning the FIFA U-17 World Cup in South Korea, admitted that it will be a tough encounter, but espied victory for his side.
“It’s going to be a big game and we are used to such. The spirit is high in camp now after our big win over Cote d’Ivoire. We believe in ourselves but we will not underrate the Cameroonians,” said the product of Crystal Football Academy of Lagos.
He was joined by team first choice goalkeeper, Oladele Ajiboye (Aji-Boy), who was in goal when the Eaglets won the African U-17 Championship and FIFA U-17 World Cup titles in 2007.
He has been rated Nigeria’s rock at the rear, but says it is all about team work and does not see himself as the team’s superman.
“Everyone works for the team; we all have what we contribute and we all want to win the trophy. My job is to keep the ball away from our goal and I try as much as possible to do that,” Ajiboye stated.
Left-wing-back, Matthew Edile (Sabby-Boy) echoed his skipper’s enthusiasm, with a declaration that the lads aim to make the best of Wednesday’s crunch game. “We are focused on the match and we pray that God will give us the day,” Edile declared.
Incidentally, assistant skipper, Kingsley Udoh (who plays in central defence) and striker Uchebo Okechukwu will miss Wednesday’s match; after collecting two yellow cards each.
Edet Ibok comes in for Udoh with Haruna likely to start this time, after getting axed to the bench against Cote d’Ivoire, in what was seen as a disciplinary move by the coach, Isah Ladan Bosso.
The Flying Eagles will trained at the main pitch of Amahoro Stadium from 5:30pm Rwanda time on Tuesday, while the Cameroonians trained on the practice pitch of the arena on Monday.
Cameroon are unbeaten at this tournament, having drawn with Ghana and hosts Rwanda and beaten Mali 3-0 in their last match. Nigeria defeated Egypt 2-0, lost 1-2 to South Africa and eased 3-0 over Cote d’Ivoire.
The AS Monaco of France rising star said Wednesday’s game will be a crunch and declared that the Flying Eagles do not want to be crushed by their eternal boogie team.
Haruna, who also captained most of the players during their days with the under-17 squad, Golden Eaglets, en route to winning the FIFA U-17 World Cup in South Korea, admitted that it will be a tough encounter, but espied victory for his side.
“It’s going to be a big game and we are used to such. The spirit is high in camp now after our big win over Cote d’Ivoire. We believe in ourselves but we will not underrate the Cameroonians,” said the product of Crystal Football Academy of Lagos.
He was joined by team first choice goalkeeper, Oladele Ajiboye (Aji-Boy), who was in goal when the Eaglets won the African U-17 Championship and FIFA U-17 World Cup titles in 2007.
He has been rated Nigeria’s rock at the rear, but says it is all about team work and does not see himself as the team’s superman.
“Everyone works for the team; we all have what we contribute and we all want to win the trophy. My job is to keep the ball away from our goal and I try as much as possible to do that,” Ajiboye stated.
Left-wing-back, Matthew Edile (Sabby-Boy) echoed his skipper’s enthusiasm, with a declaration that the lads aim to make the best of Wednesday’s crunch game. “We are focused on the match and we pray that God will give us the day,” Edile declared.
Incidentally, assistant skipper, Kingsley Udoh (who plays in central defence) and striker Uchebo Okechukwu will miss Wednesday’s match; after collecting two yellow cards each.
Edet Ibok comes in for Udoh with Haruna likely to start this time, after getting axed to the bench against Cote d’Ivoire, in what was seen as a disciplinary move by the coach, Isah Ladan Bosso.
The Flying Eagles will trained at the main pitch of Amahoro Stadium from 5:30pm Rwanda time on Tuesday, while the Cameroonians trained on the practice pitch of the arena on Monday.
Cameroon are unbeaten at this tournament, having drawn with Ghana and hosts Rwanda and beaten Mali 3-0 in their last match. Nigeria defeated Egypt 2-0, lost 1-2 to South Africa and eased 3-0 over Cote d’Ivoire.
Sunday, January 25, 2009
MAKINWA MAKES HIS DEBUT FOR CHIEVO
Former Super Eagles striker, Stephen Ayodele Makinwa (The Tiger of Lagos) played his first competitive game for Chievo Verona, after sealing a loan move to The Flying Donkeys on Thursday.
The former Modena, Como, Reggina, Reggiana, Atalanta and Genoa striker was on Chievo’s bench from the start at Stadio Oreste Granillo, as they played away to the side where he was on loan last term, Reginna.
Although he failed to make a goal-scoring debut for the team, Makinwa had a fine outing as he went in for Mauro Esposito in the 64th minute and gave the opponent’s backline a very busy evening.
In Turkey, Julius Efosa Aghahowa (The Talisman) had a starter's shirt for Kayserispor but failed to save his team from slumping to a 3-1 loss to Genclerbirligi.
Aghahowa could not get the much needed goal for his side before being pulled off in the 63rd minute, as his side toiled against the former club of Isaac Promise.
In Greece, Patrick Babatunde Ogunsoto failed to hit target and was forced to come off the Ergotelis bench in the 69th minute.
The former Westerlo of Belgium hit man was full of running, without anything to show for is, as the modest outfit secured maximum 3 points after a 1-0 home win over Panathinaikos.
In South Africa, donning jersey number 34, Super Eagles fringe goalkeeper, Greg Etafia was in goal for Moroka Swallows and his fine saves ensured his team ran home with a goalless draw away to Ajax Cape Town.
The former Modena, Como, Reggina, Reggiana, Atalanta and Genoa striker was on Chievo’s bench from the start at Stadio Oreste Granillo, as they played away to the side where he was on loan last term, Reginna.
Although he failed to make a goal-scoring debut for the team, Makinwa had a fine outing as he went in for Mauro Esposito in the 64th minute and gave the opponent’s backline a very busy evening.
In Turkey, Julius Efosa Aghahowa (The Talisman) had a starter's shirt for Kayserispor but failed to save his team from slumping to a 3-1 loss to Genclerbirligi.
Aghahowa could not get the much needed goal for his side before being pulled off in the 63rd minute, as his side toiled against the former club of Isaac Promise.
In Greece, Patrick Babatunde Ogunsoto failed to hit target and was forced to come off the Ergotelis bench in the 69th minute.
The former Westerlo of Belgium hit man was full of running, without anything to show for is, as the modest outfit secured maximum 3 points after a 1-0 home win over Panathinaikos.
In South Africa, donning jersey number 34, Super Eagles fringe goalkeeper, Greg Etafia was in goal for Moroka Swallows and his fine saves ensured his team ran home with a goalless draw away to Ajax Cape Town.
Kanu Fires blank
A total of 13,517 spectators were in the stands at The Keepmoat Stadium, home ground of Championship side, Doncaster Rovers, on an evening Nigerian-born attacker, Gabriel Agbonlahor failed to hit target for Aston Villa.
Gabby was in full flight FA Cup action with The Villans, but could not make any difference, as his side settled for a goalless draw against Donnie and book a replay at Villa Park. Gabby was in action for the entire duration.
On the same evening, Dickson Etuhu saw 69 minutes of action in Fulham's 4-2 win away to Kettering Town at the A-Line Arena.
Etuhu had an average outing but his replacement, Danny Murphy proved more useful in getting results as he scored a goal just within 8 minutes of gracing the turf.
Elsewhere, 17,357 fans who thronged Fratton Park to watch Portsmouth take on lowly Swansea City, but many of them walked out in utter disappointment, as cup holders, Pompey crashed out after a 2-0 loss to The Swans.
Super Eagles' skipper, Nwankwo Kanu (Papilo) and his compatriot, John Chukwudi Utaka (The Attacker) were dressed for the game.
However, it was only Kanu who got playing time from the encounter, as he came off the bench in the 46th minute, with Pompey already 2-0 down.
Unlike last season, when Kanu’s goals virtually stole the cup for Portsmouth, the lanky star failed to reenact his magic touch and fired blanks on a sorry evening at home.
Gabby was in full flight FA Cup action with The Villans, but could not make any difference, as his side settled for a goalless draw against Donnie and book a replay at Villa Park. Gabby was in action for the entire duration.
On the same evening, Dickson Etuhu saw 69 minutes of action in Fulham's 4-2 win away to Kettering Town at the A-Line Arena.
Etuhu had an average outing but his replacement, Danny Murphy proved more useful in getting results as he scored a goal just within 8 minutes of gracing the turf.
Elsewhere, 17,357 fans who thronged Fratton Park to watch Portsmouth take on lowly Swansea City, but many of them walked out in utter disappointment, as cup holders, Pompey crashed out after a 2-0 loss to The Swans.
Super Eagles' skipper, Nwankwo Kanu (Papilo) and his compatriot, John Chukwudi Utaka (The Attacker) were dressed for the game.
However, it was only Kanu who got playing time from the encounter, as he came off the bench in the 46th minute, with Pompey already 2-0 down.
Unlike last season, when Kanu’s goals virtually stole the cup for Portsmouth, the lanky star failed to reenact his magic touch and fired blanks on a sorry evening at home.
Flying Eagles beat Ivory Coast 3-0
Nigeria's Flying Eagles confirmed their place at the last four at the ongoing 16th African Youth Championship with a 3-0 thrashing of Cote d'Ivoire in the final Group B clash on Sunday at the Amahoro Stadium.
The victory ensured qualification for the five-times Champions as they finished as winners of the group on superior goal difference after being tied on six points apiece with South Africa and Egypt.
Egypt beat South Africa 2-1 in the group's other fixture at the Nyamirambo Stadium, but still finished third on six points with the Elephants rooted at the bottom pointless.
Against the Eagles, the Elephants started on a high note and pinned the Nigerians to their half on most ocasions but lacked the cutting edge upfront.
On 27 minutes, striker Chrisantus MacCauley, who was making his first start of the competition justified his place with the opener after finishing off a one-two move with Okechukwu Uchebo.
The Ivorians maintained their dominance in the second half and two minutes past the hour mark Ibrahim Haruna scooped Issa Kone's effort of the goal-line after goalie Miniru Ajiboye had been beaten.
Nigeria coach Ladan Bosso brought on substantive captain Lukeman Haruna, and the later doubled the lead on 80 minutes from the spot after Uchebo had been fouled in the penalty area before Ibrahim Rabiu sealed victory with the third goal minutes later.
In the other match, Egypt took a two-goal lead before half time courtesy a brace from Talaat Abdel Rahman in the 27th and 39th minutes.
Ngcepe Thulani reduced the deficit on 71 minutes for the Amajita but it was not enough to save them from their first defeat of the competition.
In Wednesday's semi-finals, Ghana will face South Africa while Nigeria lock horns with Cameroon.
All four teams have qualified for the World Championship slated for Egypt in September.
The victory ensured qualification for the five-times Champions as they finished as winners of the group on superior goal difference after being tied on six points apiece with South Africa and Egypt.
Egypt beat South Africa 2-1 in the group's other fixture at the Nyamirambo Stadium, but still finished third on six points with the Elephants rooted at the bottom pointless.
Against the Eagles, the Elephants started on a high note and pinned the Nigerians to their half on most ocasions but lacked the cutting edge upfront.
On 27 minutes, striker Chrisantus MacCauley, who was making his first start of the competition justified his place with the opener after finishing off a one-two move with Okechukwu Uchebo.
The Ivorians maintained their dominance in the second half and two minutes past the hour mark Ibrahim Haruna scooped Issa Kone's effort of the goal-line after goalie Miniru Ajiboye had been beaten.
Nigeria coach Ladan Bosso brought on substantive captain Lukeman Haruna, and the later doubled the lead on 80 minutes from the spot after Uchebo had been fouled in the penalty area before Ibrahim Rabiu sealed victory with the third goal minutes later.
In the other match, Egypt took a two-goal lead before half time courtesy a brace from Talaat Abdel Rahman in the 27th and 39th minutes.
Ngcepe Thulani reduced the deficit on 71 minutes for the Amajita but it was not enough to save them from their first defeat of the competition.
In Wednesday's semi-finals, Ghana will face South Africa while Nigeria lock horns with Cameroon.
All four teams have qualified for the World Championship slated for Egypt in September.
Friday, January 23, 2009
NFF despatch Amodu to help Bosso
As part of the concern and efforts by the Nigeria Football Federation to see that the National Under-20 men's team secure a slot at this year's Fifa Under-20 World Cup in Egypt, the federation has dispatched senior men's team chief coach, Amodu Shuaibu to reinforce the technical crew.
Amodu will on an Ethiopian Airline flight to Addis Ababa on Friday night, from where he will connect another Ethiopian Airline flight to Kigali, the Rwandan capital on Saturday morning.
The Eagles coach will arrive in time to be part of the technical and tactical build–up of the Flying Eagles for Sunday's very crucial Group B clash with the Young Elephants of Cote d'Ivoire at the Amahoro Stadium.
Defeat by South Africa's Amajita on Thursday has rendered Sunday's match a must-win for the Flying Eagles, who have three points in the campaign from their 2-0 defeat of Egypt at the Regional Stadium on Monday.
"This is not a panic measure; it is part of our efforts to see that no stone is left unturned to earn the World Cup ticket.
"There was absolutely no reason for the team to have lost to South Africa. In the light of this, the federation has decided that Amodu Shuaibu joins the team to reinforce the technical crew," said NFF General Secretary, Dr Bolaji Ojo-Oba on Friday evening.
South Africa have climbed to six points and top Group B, while Nigeria and Egypt have three points each, and Cote d'Ivoire none. But all three teams are still in the race for qualification one way or the other.
Amodu will on an Ethiopian Airline flight to Addis Ababa on Friday night, from where he will connect another Ethiopian Airline flight to Kigali, the Rwandan capital on Saturday morning.
The Eagles coach will arrive in time to be part of the technical and tactical build–up of the Flying Eagles for Sunday's very crucial Group B clash with the Young Elephants of Cote d'Ivoire at the Amahoro Stadium.
Defeat by South Africa's Amajita on Thursday has rendered Sunday's match a must-win for the Flying Eagles, who have three points in the campaign from their 2-0 defeat of Egypt at the Regional Stadium on Monday.
"This is not a panic measure; it is part of our efforts to see that no stone is left unturned to earn the World Cup ticket.
"There was absolutely no reason for the team to have lost to South Africa. In the light of this, the federation has decided that Amodu Shuaibu joins the team to reinforce the technical crew," said NFF General Secretary, Dr Bolaji Ojo-Oba on Friday evening.
South Africa have climbed to six points and top Group B, while Nigeria and Egypt have three points each, and Cote d'Ivoire none. But all three teams are still in the race for qualification one way or the other.
Makinwa Joins Chievo On Loan
Italian Serie A relegation strugglers Chievo have officially signed Lazio marksman Stephen Makinwa on loan.
The Nigerian hitman has been frozen out at Lazio after falling behind Mauro Zarate, Goran Pandev and Tommaso Rocchi in the hierarchy.
Makinwa became unhappy in the capital and put in a transfer request in December and Chievo have snapped him up.
Chievo were looking to add some firepower as they prepare for a relegation dogfight.
The 25-year-old will be formally presented to the Press tomorrow when he begins life with the Flying Donkeys.
The Ceo new boy has been in the peninsula since 2000 when he signed for Reggiana and has played for many sides, including Genoa, Palermo and Atalanta.
The Nigerian hitman has been frozen out at Lazio after falling behind Mauro Zarate, Goran Pandev and Tommaso Rocchi in the hierarchy.
Makinwa became unhappy in the capital and put in a transfer request in December and Chievo have snapped him up.
Chievo were looking to add some firepower as they prepare for a relegation dogfight.
The 25-year-old will be formally presented to the Press tomorrow when he begins life with the Flying Donkeys.
The Ceo new boy has been in the peninsula since 2000 when he signed for Reggiana and has played for many sides, including Genoa, Palermo and Atalanta.
NFF GETS FRANTIC OVER BOSSO'S BOYS
Executive committee members of Nigeria Football Federation and the technical crew of the under-20 national team, Flying Eagles have met for three hours in Kigali, Rwanda, in the wake of the squad’s 2-1 loss to South Africa at the African Youth Championship.
With three points from two matches and South Africa top with maximum six, while Egypt also have three, Nigeria must beat Cote d’Ivoire on Sunday at Amahoro Stadium to guarantee a semi-final ticket and a place at the 2009 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Egypt.
Criticism has poured in on the players over their shaky form and poor attitude and team coach, Isah Ladan Bosso made it clear that he will ring changes in pattern and selection for the make or break clash with the Ivorians.
“Surely, there will be changes,” Bosso said. “We will leave out some players who are carrying on like they are already ‘stars’, and we will also change the formation.
“We are furious because that was a match we should have won. From now on, attitude will determine a lot. We do not want people behaving like they are bigger than Nigeria."
The attitude of team skipper, Lukman Haruna has been widely criticized, after he nonchalantly squandered a very early penalty that would have put the junior Eagles in the driving seat, but showed no remorse.
“The defeat to South Africa was painful, especially when you find out that we could have won if some players had the right attitude”, said NFF executive committee member, Dominic Iorfa, a former international striker who is leader of the Nigerian delegation.
With three points from two matches and South Africa top with maximum six, while Egypt also have three, Nigeria must beat Cote d’Ivoire on Sunday at Amahoro Stadium to guarantee a semi-final ticket and a place at the 2009 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Egypt.
Criticism has poured in on the players over their shaky form and poor attitude and team coach, Isah Ladan Bosso made it clear that he will ring changes in pattern and selection for the make or break clash with the Ivorians.
“Surely, there will be changes,” Bosso said. “We will leave out some players who are carrying on like they are already ‘stars’, and we will also change the formation.
“We are furious because that was a match we should have won. From now on, attitude will determine a lot. We do not want people behaving like they are bigger than Nigeria."
The attitude of team skipper, Lukman Haruna has been widely criticized, after he nonchalantly squandered a very early penalty that would have put the junior Eagles in the driving seat, but showed no remorse.
“The defeat to South Africa was painful, especially when you find out that we could have won if some players had the right attitude”, said NFF executive committee member, Dominic Iorfa, a former international striker who is leader of the Nigerian delegation.
South Africa qualifies for Fifa World Championship
South Africa defeated Nigeria 2-1 to win her ticket of taking part in the Fifa World Championship due in Egypt later this year. Masango Mandla was brought down in the penalty area and Bhengu Phumelele successfully converted the penalty to equalize for Amajita stars of South Africa on 70th minute of the game.
Five minutes later, George Maluleka scored the winner for South Africa to clinch her semi-final slot in the African Youth Championship. Uchebo Okechukwu scored the consolation goal for the Flying Eaglets on 70th minute of the game.
Five minutes later, George Maluleka scored the winner for South Africa to clinch her semi-final slot in the African Youth Championship. Uchebo Okechukwu scored the consolation goal for the Flying Eaglets on 70th minute of the game.
Bosso believes defeat will motivate players
Flying Eagles coach Ladan Bosso has facetiously declared that Thursday's 2-1 loss to South Africa will motivate the players to raise their game against Ivory Coast on Sunday.
"They played very well and we were disappointed to lose, but this will motivate the boys to do better against Ivory Coast because they have to win that match to qualify," Bosso said after the game.
Bosso's team was outplayed by the quicker and more technical South Africans, who made better use of the ball.
Defeat leaves the Flying Eagles needing to win against a so far winless Ivory Coast to make the semifinals and qualification for the World Youth Championships.
"They played very well and we were disappointed to lose, but this will motivate the boys to do better against Ivory Coast because they have to win that match to qualify," Bosso said after the game.
Bosso's team was outplayed by the quicker and more technical South Africans, who made better use of the ball.
Defeat leaves the Flying Eagles needing to win against a so far winless Ivory Coast to make the semifinals and qualification for the World Youth Championships.
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Christian Chukwu To Be Honoured With Prestigious Award
Former Nigerian international captain Christian Chukwu will be honoured with the prestigious African Legend Award at the CAF Awards to be held in Lagos on February 10.
"The African Legend Award is not just recognition for the recipient and the past contributions.
"It is also to serve as motivation for those who are still active to know that their contributions today will also be recognised and rewarded in future," said CAF Communications Director, Suleiman Habuba.
Chukwu was the skipper when the Nigerians triumphed at the 1980 Africa Cup of Nations on home soil. He is also a former coach of the Kenyan and Nigerian national teams.
"The African Legend Award is not just recognition for the recipient and the past contributions.
"It is also to serve as motivation for those who are still active to know that their contributions today will also be recognised and rewarded in future," said CAF Communications Director, Suleiman Habuba.
Chukwu was the skipper when the Nigerians triumphed at the 1980 Africa Cup of Nations on home soil. He is also a former coach of the Kenyan and Nigerian national teams.
TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR SIGN NIGERIAN TEENAGER
Tottenham Hotspur of DEngland have offered their Nigerian-born teenage striker, Jonathan Obika his first professional contract.
The 18 year old Obika, is a Second Year trainee at White Hart Lane who has scored 11 goals for the under-18s so far this season, including a hat-trick in the FA Youth Cup third round victory over Sheffield United. His prowess and form in front of goal has earned him a professional contract and a possible place in Harry Redknapp’s first-team. Obika knows he has major battle in his hands if he must win a shirt in the star studded Spurs forward line. “I am well aware of the caliber of players we parade as attackers but I hope to take my chances, you never can tell” he quipped.
The 18 year old Obika, is a Second Year trainee at White Hart Lane who has scored 11 goals for the under-18s so far this season, including a hat-trick in the FA Youth Cup third round victory over Sheffield United. His prowess and form in front of goal has earned him a professional contract and a possible place in Harry Redknapp’s first-team. Obika knows he has major battle in his hands if he must win a shirt in the star studded Spurs forward line. “I am well aware of the caliber of players we parade as attackers but I hope to take my chances, you never can tell” he quipped.
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
SUNDERLAND TABLE £2M FOR SHITTU
ickson Etuhu’s former club, Sunderland have tabled a two million pound transfer bid for Bolton Wanderer’s out of favour stopper, Daniel Shittu (The Rock), in a bid to shore up their leaky defense following injuries to a couple of key defenders.
Shittu has not had the best of seasons at The Trotters, since arriving from relegated Watford last summer and may take the move to The Stadium of Light to revive his ailing career.
The bulky former Queens Park Rangers defender has dropped even further down the pecking order of defenders at The Reebok Stadium, after Bolton’s gaffer, Gary Megson signed Zenit Saint Petersburg’s Sebastien Puygrenier.
Shittu’s name is popping up in several discussion points, with The Black Cats desperately in need of a new defender after Nyron Nosworthy was ruled out for three weeks with a hamstring injury, while Danny Collins has also picked up a knock.
Although Sunderland are equally interested in West Ham United’s duo of James Collins and Callum Davenport, Shittu appears best suited for the deal, as The Black Cats coach, Ricky Sbragia would prefer to match Bolton’s relatively low two million pound valuation of the Super Eagles defender.
As it were, Shittu is reportedly ready to leave Bolton after admitting he wished he had never joined the club, with Birmingham City and Derby County also said to be interested in his signature.
The centre back moved from Watford for two million pounds in August but has been frozen out ever since, starting just five league games in six months – two of them coming back-to-back over the past fortnight.
Ironically, in one of those matches, Shittu produced a man-of-the-match performance when given a rare start against Arsenal on January 10.
Shittu has not had the best of seasons at The Trotters, since arriving from relegated Watford last summer and may take the move to The Stadium of Light to revive his ailing career.
The bulky former Queens Park Rangers defender has dropped even further down the pecking order of defenders at The Reebok Stadium, after Bolton’s gaffer, Gary Megson signed Zenit Saint Petersburg’s Sebastien Puygrenier.
Shittu’s name is popping up in several discussion points, with The Black Cats desperately in need of a new defender after Nyron Nosworthy was ruled out for three weeks with a hamstring injury, while Danny Collins has also picked up a knock.
Although Sunderland are equally interested in West Ham United’s duo of James Collins and Callum Davenport, Shittu appears best suited for the deal, as The Black Cats coach, Ricky Sbragia would prefer to match Bolton’s relatively low two million pound valuation of the Super Eagles defender.
As it were, Shittu is reportedly ready to leave Bolton after admitting he wished he had never joined the club, with Birmingham City and Derby County also said to be interested in his signature.
The centre back moved from Watford for two million pounds in August but has been frozen out ever since, starting just five league games in six months – two of them coming back-to-back over the past fortnight.
Ironically, in one of those matches, Shittu produced a man-of-the-match performance when given a rare start against Arsenal on January 10.
flying eagles team profile
the Flying Eagles are built around the team from the Fifa U-17 World Cup in Korea.
From that teams comes skipper Lukman Haruna, Rabiu Ibrahim, Kingsley Udoh, Macauley Chrisantus and Gani Oseni. All these players now ply their trade in Europe.
Several promising youngsters from the domestic championship like Samuel Tswanya, Sunday Abe and Gbolahan Salami also have a chance to move overseas with this tournament serving as the platform.
Nigeria is gunning for a record sixth title after they lost in the final of the last edition to Congo in 2007 in Brazzaville.
Coach Ladan Bosso has come severe criticisms despite the fact that the Flying Eagles were unbeaten in the qualifiers against Senegal and Sudan.
Speculations were rife that he might have been fired before the tournament, but survived those reports.
It is believed that his performance with the Flying Eagles during the FIFA World u-20 World Cup in Canada in 2007, where the Eagles reached the last eight, was a motivating factor for his continual at the helm.
From that teams comes skipper Lukman Haruna, Rabiu Ibrahim, Kingsley Udoh, Macauley Chrisantus and Gani Oseni. All these players now ply their trade in Europe.
Several promising youngsters from the domestic championship like Samuel Tswanya, Sunday Abe and Gbolahan Salami also have a chance to move overseas with this tournament serving as the platform.
Nigeria is gunning for a record sixth title after they lost in the final of the last edition to Congo in 2007 in Brazzaville.
Coach Ladan Bosso has come severe criticisms despite the fact that the Flying Eagles were unbeaten in the qualifiers against Senegal and Sudan.
Speculations were rife that he might have been fired before the tournament, but survived those reports.
It is believed that his performance with the Flying Eagles during the FIFA World u-20 World Cup in Canada in 2007, where the Eagles reached the last eight, was a motivating factor for his continual at the helm.
FLYING EAGLES READY FOR SOUTH AFRICA
Players and officials of the under-20 national team, Flying Eagles have promised greater unity and sense of direction in Thursday’s clash with South Africa at the 16th African Youth Championship in Kigali, Rwanda.
With three points from their first game, Coach Isah Ladan Bosso’s boys know victory over the Amajita at Kigali’s Regional Stadium will almost guarantee a place at the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Egypt later this year.
As Bosso led his boys to watch the Group A matches - as Ghana beat Mali 2- 0, while Rwanda and Cameroon played 1-1 - at Amahoro Stadium, the coach was filled with a high sense of optimism for Thursday’s game.
“We are happy that we won the first match and have three points, but the truth is that we could have done better is the boys had done a few things the proper way.
“However, we have the opportunity against South Africa to show that we are more coordinated and more focused, and the players have pledged to deliver. I am confident of victory,” Bosso said.
As things stand, victory for the Flying Eagles (starting 2:30pm Nigerian time) and a draw in the first match of the day between Egypt and Cote d’Ivoire will mean a ticket to Egypt 2009 for Bosso’s boys.
However, the Nigerians, winners in 2005 across the west-border in Benin Republic and runners –up in Congo two years ago, will still miss the services of SV Hamburg of Germany kid striker, Macaulay Chrisantus.
The top scorer at the 2007 U-17 World Cup in South Korea will conclude his two-match ban for being sent off in the final qualifying leg against Sudan in November last year.
Bosso and his assistants are likely to maintain the same team that earned victory over Egypt on Monday, even as they are hammering on team work and clinical finishing.
With three points from their first game, Coach Isah Ladan Bosso’s boys know victory over the Amajita at Kigali’s Regional Stadium will almost guarantee a place at the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Egypt later this year.
As Bosso led his boys to watch the Group A matches - as Ghana beat Mali 2- 0, while Rwanda and Cameroon played 1-1 - at Amahoro Stadium, the coach was filled with a high sense of optimism for Thursday’s game.
“We are happy that we won the first match and have three points, but the truth is that we could have done better is the boys had done a few things the proper way.
“However, we have the opportunity against South Africa to show that we are more coordinated and more focused, and the players have pledged to deliver. I am confident of victory,” Bosso said.
As things stand, victory for the Flying Eagles (starting 2:30pm Nigerian time) and a draw in the first match of the day between Egypt and Cote d’Ivoire will mean a ticket to Egypt 2009 for Bosso’s boys.
However, the Nigerians, winners in 2005 across the west-border in Benin Republic and runners –up in Congo two years ago, will still miss the services of SV Hamburg of Germany kid striker, Macaulay Chrisantus.
The top scorer at the 2007 U-17 World Cup in South Korea will conclude his two-match ban for being sent off in the final qualifying leg against Sudan in November last year.
Bosso and his assistants are likely to maintain the same team that earned victory over Egypt on Monday, even as they are hammering on team work and clinical finishing.
flying eagles beat Egypt 2-0
Egyptian coach Miroslav Soukup commented: 'We had very good preparations for this opening match and I dont understand why our boys could not click. We had equal opprtunities to score, especially in the second half, but my strikers failed to deliver. However I appreciate Nigeria's collective strength as a team and I can see them going far in this event.
His assistant, former Egyptian defence strongman Hanny Ramzi was still confident that Egypt could recover and progress in the event. He said:' We have started badly, but overall we managed to create some good chances. We can still recover and progress.'
Captain of Egyptian team El Sayed Gabr El Henawy Moaz was crestfallen, lamenting the lost chances and the difficult task ahead. We didnt expect this outcome. We had good preparations and good conditions, but our plans did not work.'
Nigeran coach Laddo Issah Bosso said his team took their chances well and deserved to win. He praised Egyptians for their fighting spirit and tactical approach. We are poised to go far after this good start. Our target is to go all the way to the final and lift the crown. We are prepared for any team,'' he said in post match interview.
Nigeria's midfielder Ibrahim Rabiu was named Samsung Fairplay player of the match.
His assistant, former Egyptian defence strongman Hanny Ramzi was still confident that Egypt could recover and progress in the event. He said:' We have started badly, but overall we managed to create some good chances. We can still recover and progress.'
Captain of Egyptian team El Sayed Gabr El Henawy Moaz was crestfallen, lamenting the lost chances and the difficult task ahead. We didnt expect this outcome. We had good preparations and good conditions, but our plans did not work.'
Nigeran coach Laddo Issah Bosso said his team took their chances well and deserved to win. He praised Egyptians for their fighting spirit and tactical approach. We are poised to go far after this good start. Our target is to go all the way to the final and lift the crown. We are prepared for any team,'' he said in post match interview.
Nigeria's midfielder Ibrahim Rabiu was named Samsung Fairplay player of the match.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
ANICHEBE’S FORM EXCITES MOYES
Victor Anichebe (The Beast) was in the best form of his career with Everton, Monday night at Anfield, with a tremendous display that contributed in earning The Toffees a 1-1 draw away to Liverpool in the 209th Merseyside derby.
With Anichebe on top of his game, the pressure was bound to be on Liverpool, as their Merseyside rivals ensured that Liverpool did not return to the summit of the English Premier League.
The young striker, a silver medalist with Dream Team 4 at last year’s Olympics in Beijing, China, was the only change to the starting line-up from the Everton squad that defeated Hull City at the weekend.
Although The Beast found his way into the squad due to the suspension of Belgian midfielder, Marouane Fellaini he eventually played like a possessed man, running and tormenting The Reds defense throughout the duration of the encounter and to the admiration of his coach, David Moyes.
Moments before Steven Gerrard gave Liverpool the lead in the 67th minute, Everton had a strong claim for a penalty turned down when Anichebe appeared to be bundled over by Martin Skrtel.
Although Anichebe was not granted a penalty, it was an outcome Moyes was satisfied with. "I thought the players showed how they have been playing recently, with confidence and for periods of the game we did very well.
“We had to defend very well as well but I was pleased with them,” The Toffees’ manager said.
With Anichebe on top of his game, the pressure was bound to be on Liverpool, as their Merseyside rivals ensured that Liverpool did not return to the summit of the English Premier League.
The young striker, a silver medalist with Dream Team 4 at last year’s Olympics in Beijing, China, was the only change to the starting line-up from the Everton squad that defeated Hull City at the weekend.
Although The Beast found his way into the squad due to the suspension of Belgian midfielder, Marouane Fellaini he eventually played like a possessed man, running and tormenting The Reds defense throughout the duration of the encounter and to the admiration of his coach, David Moyes.
Moments before Steven Gerrard gave Liverpool the lead in the 67th minute, Everton had a strong claim for a penalty turned down when Anichebe appeared to be bundled over by Martin Skrtel.
Although Anichebe was not granted a penalty, it was an outcome Moyes was satisfied with. "I thought the players showed how they have been playing recently, with confidence and for periods of the game we did very well.
“We had to defend very well as well but I was pleased with them,” The Toffees’ manager said.
Sunday, January 18, 2009
OSAZE READY TO BATTLE REGGAE BOYS
Lokomotiv Moscow of Russia striker, Peter Osaze Odemwingie has confirmed that he will be available for the February 11 international friendly against The Reggae Boys of Jamaica at English lower division side, Milwall’s home ground in London.
The Super Eagles will be boosted as Osaze’s presence, with the former La Louviere of Belgium and Lille Metropole of France star boasting of 26 Eagles caps now sure of make England date with Jamaica.
Osaze aims to get a fell of England come next month, after getting into the news a while ago with interest coming his way from Everton, the EPL club of fellow Eagles stars, Yakubu Aiyegbeni, Joseph Yobo and Victor Anichebe.
He was the only over-aged player in the national under-23 side, Dream Team 4 to the Beijing 2008 Olympics in China, during which he scored in the 2-0 victory over Ivory Coast in the quarter finals.
The Ukraine-born star made his Eagles debut at the 2004 Nations Cup in Tunisia for the Super Eagles coming on as a substitute for Nwankwo Kanu against South Africa where he scored a brace.
The mullatto striker cum winger was one of the leading scorers for Lokomotiv Moscow during the past Russian league season, in which he scored 10 goals.
However, before joining the Eagles, Osaze is already in Turkey with the Russian railway-owned club, as they embark on their winter training camp ahead of the 2009 season, with the team expected to go through the ropes the 28th of this month.
The Super Eagles will be boosted as Osaze’s presence, with the former La Louviere of Belgium and Lille Metropole of France star boasting of 26 Eagles caps now sure of make England date with Jamaica.
Osaze aims to get a fell of England come next month, after getting into the news a while ago with interest coming his way from Everton, the EPL club of fellow Eagles stars, Yakubu Aiyegbeni, Joseph Yobo and Victor Anichebe.
He was the only over-aged player in the national under-23 side, Dream Team 4 to the Beijing 2008 Olympics in China, during which he scored in the 2-0 victory over Ivory Coast in the quarter finals.
The Ukraine-born star made his Eagles debut at the 2004 Nations Cup in Tunisia for the Super Eagles coming on as a substitute for Nwankwo Kanu against South Africa where he scored a brace.
The mullatto striker cum winger was one of the leading scorers for Lokomotiv Moscow during the past Russian league season, in which he scored 10 goals.
However, before joining the Eagles, Osaze is already in Turkey with the Russian railway-owned club, as they embark on their winter training camp ahead of the 2009 season, with the team expected to go through the ropes the 28th of this month.
CHRISANTUS BANNED, BOSSO TARGETS VICTORY
SV Hamburg of Germany fringe striker, Macaulay Chrisantus will miss the under-20 national team, Flying Eagles’ first two Group B matches in the 2009 African Youth Championship (AYC), in Kigali, Rwanda.
This is sequel to violent conduct and a red card picked up by the 2007 U-17 World Cup top scorer during the under-20 squad’s final qualifying match away to Sudan, which has earned the former FC Abuja star a two-match suspension at the AYC.
To this end, Chrisantus will miss the opening game for Coach Isah Ladan Bosso’s boys against Egypt on Monday as well as the follow-up tie against South Africa on Thursday.Bosso says he has confidence in his Flying Eagles to deliver on Monday afternoon. “We have had a full week’s useful final training and everyone is happy about it. It was good coming here ahead of the tournament. “Now, we are very okay with the weather and the terrain.
The boys know what they have to do and they will go about doing it from the very first match,” Bosso declared.The Wikki Tourist of Bauchi coach also noted that he aims to use the AYC as a stepping stone to greater glory at the U-20 World Cup in Egypt.“The target first and foremost is the World Cup in Egypt, and once we get that, we begin to think about the trophy.“Of course, we know the danger of under-rating any team.
It was clear from the defeat of Mali that anyone could end up with a bloody nose,” Bosso stated.On ground in Rwanda to provide motivation and full support for the Flying Eagles are Nigeria Football Federation executive committee member, ex-international, Dominic Iorfa and NFF general-secretary, Dr Bolaji Ojo-Oba. On Sunday morning, NFF president, Alhaji Sani Lulu Abdullahi flew out of Lagos to watch the Flying Eagles’ first match against the Egyptians, before returning home for the FIFA inspection of Nigeria’s facilities for the U-17 World Cup, which commences in Lagos on Wednesday.Nigeria’s first match at the championship begins 12:30pm Nigeria time at the Regional Stadium in Kigali – venue of Group B matches at this tournament.On Sunday, at Amahoro Stadium in the Rwandan capital, venue for Group A matches, a colourful opening ceremony was followed by ecstasy for the home crowd as Rwanda’s team romped to a 2-1 win over better-fancied Mali.Nigeria won the African Youth Championship four times successively in the 1980s - when it was on home-away basis. When it assumed tournament status, the Flying Eagles were bronze medalists on home soil in 1995, runners –up to Ghana in 1999, winners in Benin Republic in 2005 and runners –up to hosts Congo in Brazzaville two years ago.
This is sequel to violent conduct and a red card picked up by the 2007 U-17 World Cup top scorer during the under-20 squad’s final qualifying match away to Sudan, which has earned the former FC Abuja star a two-match suspension at the AYC.
To this end, Chrisantus will miss the opening game for Coach Isah Ladan Bosso’s boys against Egypt on Monday as well as the follow-up tie against South Africa on Thursday.Bosso says he has confidence in his Flying Eagles to deliver on Monday afternoon. “We have had a full week’s useful final training and everyone is happy about it. It was good coming here ahead of the tournament. “Now, we are very okay with the weather and the terrain.
The boys know what they have to do and they will go about doing it from the very first match,” Bosso declared.The Wikki Tourist of Bauchi coach also noted that he aims to use the AYC as a stepping stone to greater glory at the U-20 World Cup in Egypt.“The target first and foremost is the World Cup in Egypt, and once we get that, we begin to think about the trophy.“Of course, we know the danger of under-rating any team.
It was clear from the defeat of Mali that anyone could end up with a bloody nose,” Bosso stated.On ground in Rwanda to provide motivation and full support for the Flying Eagles are Nigeria Football Federation executive committee member, ex-international, Dominic Iorfa and NFF general-secretary, Dr Bolaji Ojo-Oba. On Sunday morning, NFF president, Alhaji Sani Lulu Abdullahi flew out of Lagos to watch the Flying Eagles’ first match against the Egyptians, before returning home for the FIFA inspection of Nigeria’s facilities for the U-17 World Cup, which commences in Lagos on Wednesday.Nigeria’s first match at the championship begins 12:30pm Nigeria time at the Regional Stadium in Kigali – venue of Group B matches at this tournament.On Sunday, at Amahoro Stadium in the Rwandan capital, venue for Group A matches, a colourful opening ceremony was followed by ecstasy for the home crowd as Rwanda’s team romped to a 2-1 win over better-fancied Mali.Nigeria won the African Youth Championship four times successively in the 1980s - when it was on home-away basis. When it assumed tournament status, the Flying Eagles were bronze medalists on home soil in 1995, runners –up to Ghana in 1999, winners in Benin Republic in 2005 and runners –up to hosts Congo in Brazzaville two years ago.
Saturday, January 17, 2009
SIENA ENTER RACE FOR OKAKA
Transfer talk around Nigerian-born Italian youth international, Stephano Chuka Okaka has entered another level, with Serie A newcomers, Siena laying a claim to his signature.
Fresh news from The Land of The Azzurri indicates that Okaka may turn his sight away from Bologna and Atalanta, following interest expressed in his signature by the top flight newcomers.
Siena sporting director, Manuel Gerolin confirmed that the club is already in talks with Okaka, and expressed optimism that they would get something neat out of the deliberations.
“He is a player who we have been tracking for a while and we have asked Roma whether we could sign him during this transfer window. It would be a loan deal, but that doesn't necessarily mean we are going to lose one of the strikers we have at the moment,” the Siena top shot stated.
Fresh news from The Land of The Azzurri indicates that Okaka may turn his sight away from Bologna and Atalanta, following interest expressed in his signature by the top flight newcomers.
Siena sporting director, Manuel Gerolin confirmed that the club is already in talks with Okaka, and expressed optimism that they would get something neat out of the deliberations.
“He is a player who we have been tracking for a while and we have asked Roma whether we could sign him during this transfer window. It would be a loan deal, but that doesn't necessarily mean we are going to lose one of the strikers we have at the moment,” the Siena top shot stated.
OBODO SET FOR ESPANYOL DEBUT
Christian Obodo (Bundle of Skills) looks set for an immediate blast off this weekend at his new club, Espanyol of Spain, after opting out of his contract with Udinese of Italy, with a place in the squad looking good for the player tomorrow.
Despite keen interest from Portsmouth and West Bromwich Albion of England and Atalanta of Italy, the former AC Perugia and Fiorentina midfielder has shipped out of the City of Udine for two million euros, which he aims to justify from the word go, as Espanyol visit Malaga.
The Super Eagles star Obodo, who only recently recovered after a long-standing injury, just in time to score in the UEFA Cup, is already in line for his Espanyol debut this weekend, as the Liga club seek to climb out of the relegation zone in Spain’s top flight.
The 24-year-old Obodo, who had been in Italy since 2001, will hope to use tomorrow’s match as a bright take off pad for his career with the struggling Espanyol
Despite keen interest from Portsmouth and West Bromwich Albion of England and Atalanta of Italy, the former AC Perugia and Fiorentina midfielder has shipped out of the City of Udine for two million euros, which he aims to justify from the word go, as Espanyol visit Malaga.
The Super Eagles star Obodo, who only recently recovered after a long-standing injury, just in time to score in the UEFA Cup, is already in line for his Espanyol debut this weekend, as the Liga club seek to climb out of the relegation zone in Spain’s top flight.
The 24-year-old Obodo, who had been in Italy since 2001, will hope to use tomorrow’s match as a bright take off pad for his career with the struggling Espanyol
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Pompey: Kanu can go!
Portsmouth coach, Tony Adams, has told Super Eagles captain, Nwankwo Kanu, that they can do without him if he insists on quitting the club when his one year contract expires in the summer.
The Pompey boss has been Papillo’s former teammate at Arsenal and a long admirer of the striker but he is not sure of his stay at Fratton Park as he is getting irritated about rumours linking him to several European top clubs with PSV Eindhoven as the latest.
Kanu was given a one year deal after meeting the 20 games set for him last season by erstwhile coach, Harry Redknapp, but the club’s former highest goal scorer wants an improved deal from the Blues.
"If Kanu decides he wanted to leave and doesn’t want to accept our offer for him, we have no choice than to let him go. "He was my teammate at Arsenal where we won a lot of trophies together. I know his qualities and honestly, I don’t mind to continue working with him.
"He’s a great player and one of the most talented players I have ever seen in my career. I don’t think he will leave because he is very much happy playing for Portsmouth.
"But if he feels he is no longer comfortable staying here that will not be the end of the road for the club. We will move on without him and get a new striker to replace him."
The Pompey boss has been Papillo’s former teammate at Arsenal and a long admirer of the striker but he is not sure of his stay at Fratton Park as he is getting irritated about rumours linking him to several European top clubs with PSV Eindhoven as the latest.
Kanu was given a one year deal after meeting the 20 games set for him last season by erstwhile coach, Harry Redknapp, but the club’s former highest goal scorer wants an improved deal from the Blues.
"If Kanu decides he wanted to leave and doesn’t want to accept our offer for him, we have no choice than to let him go. "He was my teammate at Arsenal where we won a lot of trophies together. I know his qualities and honestly, I don’t mind to continue working with him.
"He’s a great player and one of the most talented players I have ever seen in my career. I don’t think he will leave because he is very much happy playing for Portsmouth.
"But if he feels he is no longer comfortable staying here that will not be the end of the road for the club. We will move on without him and get a new striker to replace him."
OGBONNA CLOSING IN ON ARSENAL
Another Nigerian star looks good to take after Super Eagles skipper, Nwankwo Kanu (Papillo) as a player of English Premier League side, Arsenal; with reports from England revealing that AS Torino star, Angelo Obienze Ogbonna is bound to celebrate his recent escape from a car crash with a deal at The Emirates.
The report revealed further that The Gunners are following Ogbonna with keen interest, and the defender-cum-midfielder could get a deal this month.
The Italian youth international has been with Toro for two years, during which he had a spell on loan with Serie B side, Cessena last season.
Ogbonna is back at his familiar hunting field in Turin, where he is again battling to make his mark, which leaves the Arsenal interest as a very surprising yet reassuring offer for the Nigerian-born player.
The 20-year-old Ogbonna is still picking up the pieces after an initial loan deal with Crotone.
The report revealed further that The Gunners are following Ogbonna with keen interest, and the defender-cum-midfielder could get a deal this month.
The Italian youth international has been with Toro for two years, during which he had a spell on loan with Serie B side, Cessena last season.
Ogbonna is back at his familiar hunting field in Turin, where he is again battling to make his mark, which leaves the Arsenal interest as a very surprising yet reassuring offer for the Nigerian-born player.
The 20-year-old Ogbonna is still picking up the pieces after an initial loan deal with Crotone.
Eagles up again on FIFA rankings
Nigeria’s position on the FIFA rankings soared again as Cameroon continue to head the list of African sides. Egypt jumped a step further in the first table of 2009.
The Indomitable Lions are ranked 14th overall in the world, with African champions, Egypt now one place behind them in the 15th position.
Nigeria have also climbed two places to 17th, benefiting further from their impressive recent unbeaten run in World Cup and Africa Cup of Nations qualifying games.
Ghana’s Black Stars are up by one step to 25th position, while Ivory Coast drop one to 29th.
Last month’s big movers, Kenya, dropped back to 84th position, having briefly climbed to 68th, on the back of qualifying for the final stage of World and Nations Cup events.
Meanwhile, Giovanni Trapattoni’s Republic of Ireland side have also risen one place in the latest FIFA world rankings to 37.
Ireland have not played since the 3–2 friendly defeat to Poland in November, but benefited from a fall of three places by Ecuador.
European champions, Spain, remained top of the rankings following a quiet month for international football. With few teams in action, the top 14 stayed unchanged as Spain stretched their spell at the top into a seventh month with Germany and Netherlands their nearest challengers.
World champions, Italy, are in fourth place ahead of South American powerhouses, Brazil and Argentina.
England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales remain unchanged in eighth, 33rd, 52nd and 60th places respectively.
Ireland’s World Cup 2010 qualifying rivals, Bulgaria, dropped one place to 28th, while Cyprus remain in 94th.
The Indomitable Lions are ranked 14th overall in the world, with African champions, Egypt now one place behind them in the 15th position.
Nigeria have also climbed two places to 17th, benefiting further from their impressive recent unbeaten run in World Cup and Africa Cup of Nations qualifying games.
Ghana’s Black Stars are up by one step to 25th position, while Ivory Coast drop one to 29th.
Last month’s big movers, Kenya, dropped back to 84th position, having briefly climbed to 68th, on the back of qualifying for the final stage of World and Nations Cup events.
Meanwhile, Giovanni Trapattoni’s Republic of Ireland side have also risen one place in the latest FIFA world rankings to 37.
Ireland have not played since the 3–2 friendly defeat to Poland in November, but benefited from a fall of three places by Ecuador.
European champions, Spain, remained top of the rankings following a quiet month for international football. With few teams in action, the top 14 stayed unchanged as Spain stretched their spell at the top into a seventh month with Germany and Netherlands their nearest challengers.
World champions, Italy, are in fourth place ahead of South American powerhouses, Brazil and Argentina.
England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales remain unchanged in eighth, 33rd, 52nd and 60th places respectively.
Ireland’s World Cup 2010 qualifying rivals, Bulgaria, dropped one place to 28th, while Cyprus remain in 94th.
Taiwo Happy With Man City Interest
Olympique Marseille's Nigerian defender Taye Taiwo admits he's happy with interest from English club Manchester City.
The defender has been linked with the high-spending English Premier League side and he says he will only leave Marseille at the end of the season.
Taiwo told La Provence: "From time to time I am told that Manchester City and other English clubs are interested in me. It makes me smile.
"I will listen (to possible offers) in June, not before.
"When I see the fans support me in the cold at Auxerre, I am focused on my game, not on a transfer abroad."
He said.
The defender has been linked with the high-spending English Premier League side and he says he will only leave Marseille at the end of the season.
Taiwo told La Provence: "From time to time I am told that Manchester City and other English clubs are interested in me. It makes me smile.
"I will listen (to possible offers) in June, not before.
"When I see the fans support me in the cold at Auxerre, I am focused on my game, not on a transfer abroad."
He said.
Monday, January 12, 2009
HOFFENHEIM RESIGNED TO LOSING OBASI
German Bundesliga Cinderella side, TSG Hoffenheim may have resigned themselves to losing Dream Team 4 sensation, Chinedu Ogbuke Obasi (Edu) in the current transfer market.
The Bundesliga rookies are apparently facing reality, sequel to reports that Real Madrid of Spain and Juventus of Italy have joined the race to grab the former Lyn Oslo of Norway attacker.
Startling news from Germany has it on authority that the Hoffenheim star is also wanted by Chelsea, Bayern Munich and Celtic, leaving his club owner, Dietmar Hopp resigned to the inevitability of losing his prized whiz-kid.
Obasi has repeatedly denied reports of a move from TSG, but transfer talk just won’t go away, and Hopp has admitted how difficult it would be to keep the striker at ‘the village club’ much longer.
“We are not under the illusion that we can keep this team together forever but our aim is to still be playing with exactly the same squad next year.
“We don’t want to give anybody away. We want to see the team like this for at least a year,” the German billionaire said.
The Bundesliga rookies are apparently facing reality, sequel to reports that Real Madrid of Spain and Juventus of Italy have joined the race to grab the former Lyn Oslo of Norway attacker.
Startling news from Germany has it on authority that the Hoffenheim star is also wanted by Chelsea, Bayern Munich and Celtic, leaving his club owner, Dietmar Hopp resigned to the inevitability of losing his prized whiz-kid.
Obasi has repeatedly denied reports of a move from TSG, but transfer talk just won’t go away, and Hopp has admitted how difficult it would be to keep the striker at ‘the village club’ much longer.
“We are not under the illusion that we can keep this team together forever but our aim is to still be playing with exactly the same squad next year.
“We don’t want to give anybody away. We want to see the team like this for at least a year,” the German billionaire said.
Friday, January 9, 2009
ALFA TO REPLACE HENRIK LARSSON
Stunning news out of Sweden has it on authority that former Golden Eaglets bomber, Ibrahim Alfa is being considered to fill the void of an expected exit of Swedish idol, Henrik Larsson at Helsingborgs.
Details of the report from The Land of The Midnight Sun revealed that Larsson is still stalling on information about his future with the club.
The startling report has given credence to heated talk that Alfa is being considered as reinforcement for the Helsingborgs squad mid-next month.
To underline their interest in Alfa, the 18-year-old former Niger Tornadoes of Minna hot-shot, scorer of the best goal in the 2007 U-17 World Cup, has been recalled to the Swedish club, where he trained last year and has continued to stay in their sight.
“Yakubu is a young player we have had under review for a very longer time and it has been clear for quite a while that he would come to us.
“Yakubu is an all-round player, with extreme talent that we hope we can train on to a really good international player,” said Helsingborg sport director, Jesper Jansson.
Details of the report from The Land of The Midnight Sun revealed that Larsson is still stalling on information about his future with the club.
The startling report has given credence to heated talk that Alfa is being considered as reinforcement for the Helsingborgs squad mid-next month.
To underline their interest in Alfa, the 18-year-old former Niger Tornadoes of Minna hot-shot, scorer of the best goal in the 2007 U-17 World Cup, has been recalled to the Swedish club, where he trained last year and has continued to stay in their sight.
“Yakubu is a young player we have had under review for a very longer time and it has been clear for quite a while that he would come to us.
“Yakubu is an all-round player, with extreme talent that we hope we can train on to a really good international player,” said Helsingborg sport director, Jesper Jansson.
Thursday, January 8, 2009
OBASUYI RATES TAYE TAIWO NIGERIA’S BEST
Super Eagles’ left-wing-back, Taye Ismaila Taiwo (The Tornado) has been rated the best Nigerian export in Europe.
This rating was given by former Green Eagles’ star, Emmanuel Obasuyi (Shakara), who stated in a chat with brilafm.net that the Olympique Marseille of France defender is unopposed for Nigeria’s left-full-back position, while churning out impressive displays for both club and country over recent past years.
“Taye Taiwo is one of the best defenders in France. For our left full back in Nigeria, there’s no other defender there. He’s full of [power and energy, that’s what stands him out among the rest,” he submitted.
This rating was given by former Green Eagles’ star, Emmanuel Obasuyi (Shakara), who stated in a chat with brilafm.net that the Olympique Marseille of France defender is unopposed for Nigeria’s left-full-back position, while churning out impressive displays for both club and country over recent past years.
“Taye Taiwo is one of the best defenders in France. For our left full back in Nigeria, there’s no other defender there. He’s full of [power and energy, that’s what stands him out among the rest,” he submitted.
Monday, January 5, 2009
the nigerian team in 2008
The Nigerian teams(the super eagles, dream team IV, u-21, u 17) in 2008
The year started with a disastrous outing by the
Super eagles during the GHANA 2008 Nations cup,
Which most Nigerians including me would like to Forget.
The end result was the sacking of berti vogts as the
National team coach, and a new name was given to
The team by the press (Mamadou Gaye) as “SUPER
CHICKENS”.
A new coach (Amodu shuiabu), was appointed by the
Nigerian Football Association (NFA), whose first match against the Austrians the team drew.
During the qualifies the team posted a superlative performance, wining six matches, and conceding only one goal.
The draws for the final stage for qualifiers for Angola and South Africa 2010 took place in Zurich, Switzerland, and Nigeria was grouped alongside Tunisia, Kenya, and Mozambique.
During the Olympics football event, the dream team IV under the guidance of coach Samson Siasia showed the world the stuff they are made of, but unfortunately they lost to Argentina by 1 – 0 (scored by angel di Maria).
The U – 21 team, basically made of the U – 17 world conquering team in 2007 qualified for the world championship to be hosted by Egypt, while the U – 17 could not leave up to the reputation set by their predecessors, by failing to qualify for the African championship.
This year, I pray that the super eagles will qualify for Angola 2010 nation’s cup, and the Fifa 2010 World Cup in South Africa, and both the u – 21 & u -17 will perform very well in their various competitions Amen.
The year started with a disastrous outing by the
Super eagles during the GHANA 2008 Nations cup,
Which most Nigerians including me would like to Forget.
The end result was the sacking of berti vogts as the
National team coach, and a new name was given to
The team by the press (Mamadou Gaye) as “SUPER
CHICKENS”.
A new coach (Amodu shuiabu), was appointed by the
Nigerian Football Association (NFA), whose first match against the Austrians the team drew.
During the qualifies the team posted a superlative performance, wining six matches, and conceding only one goal.
The draws for the final stage for qualifiers for Angola and South Africa 2010 took place in Zurich, Switzerland, and Nigeria was grouped alongside Tunisia, Kenya, and Mozambique.
During the Olympics football event, the dream team IV under the guidance of coach Samson Siasia showed the world the stuff they are made of, but unfortunately they lost to Argentina by 1 – 0 (scored by angel di Maria).
The U – 21 team, basically made of the U – 17 world conquering team in 2007 qualified for the world championship to be hosted by Egypt, while the U – 17 could not leave up to the reputation set by their predecessors, by failing to qualify for the African championship.
This year, I pray that the super eagles will qualify for Angola 2010 nation’s cup, and the Fifa 2010 World Cup in South Africa, and both the u – 21 & u -17 will perform very well in their various competitions Amen.
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