Tag: Super Eagles

  • AFCON: Super Eagles Beat Guinea-Bissau, Become First Team To Claim Nine Points

    AFCON: Super Eagles Beat Guinea-Bissau, Become First Team To Claim Nine Points

    Super Eagles of Nigeria completed their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Group D campaign with a 2-0 win over Guinea Bissau at Ominisports Roumde Adjia Stadium on Wednesday night.

    The result ensured that the Super Eagles topped the group with nine points from three games.

    In the thrilling encounter, Mama Samba Balde tried to capitalize on a moment of hesitation from William Troost-Ekong and Semi Ajayi but Francis Uzoho came off the line to save in the 10th minute.

    Four minutes later, Semi Ajayi couldn’t divert his header home from Kelechi Nwakali’s cross. Another foray coordinated by the Super Eagles saw Sadiq Umar setting up Ajayi but Fali Cande made a timely clearance.

    On the half hour, Maurice Gomis stayed at the right place to stop a volley from Kelechi Iheanacho.

    The first half ended goalless in Garoua.

    The Super Eagles grabbed the curtain raiser through Umar after a lovely combination with Kelechi Iheanacho in the 55th minute.

    Defender William Troost-Ekong also did well to block a goal bound strike from Fali Cande on the hour mark.

    Braima Jorge also did well with a crucial block to foil Alex Iwobi who fired the canoon after a smart cutback by Moses Simon.

    The second goal arrived on 74 minutes after a review by VAR. Moses Simon went past three Guinea-Bissau players and pulled the trigger, but the ball hit the bar and bounced to William Troost-Ekong who reacted quickest to score.

    Super Eagles keeper Francis Uzoho dived at full stretch to frustrate Ladislau Alves.

    Frank Onyeka and Olisa Ndah were also thrown into the fray for their AFCON debut.

    Guinea Bissau tried to pull one back through Frédéric Mendy but Uzoho was up to the task with a decent save.

    Super Eagles top Group D with 9 points while Egypt came second with 6 points after defeating Sudan 1-0.

    Sudan and Guinea Bissau finished third and fourth respectively with one point each.

  • AFCON: Nigeria beat Sudan 3-1 To Qualify For Round Of 16

    AFCON: Nigeria beat Sudan 3-1 To Qualify For Round Of 16

    The Super Eagles on Saturday put up a strong performance to beat Sudan 3-1 in their second match at the 2021 Africa Nations Cup being held in Cameroon.

    The Eagles have now qualified for the Round of 16 regardless of what happens in the other remaining Group D games.

    After beating Egypt in their first game, many Nigerians were hoping the Eagles would outclass their North African counterparts. They did not disappoint.

    Samuel Chukwueze opened the scoring as early as the third minute with a clinical finish before a set-piece saw Taiwo Awoniyi fortuitously head into the net on the stroke of half-time.

    Nigeria began the second half as they finished the first. Moses Simon, who was later announced as the Man of the Match, went on one of his daring runs to finish past the stranded Sudanese goalkeeper in the 46th minute.

    Although Sudan pulled one back in the 70th minute after Ola Aina was adjudged by VAR to have been guilty of a foul in the 18-yard box, the Falcons of Jediane never really threatened the Super Eagles’ dominance for the rest of the game.

    Nigeria now face Guinea-Bissau in the final group game on Wednesday and will only need a draw to finish top.

  • AFCON: Gbajabiamila congratulates Super Eagles for victory over Pharaohs of Egypt

    AFCON: Gbajabiamila congratulates Super Eagles for victory over Pharaohs of Egypt

    The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep. Femi Gbajabiamila, has congratulated the Super Eagles of Nigeria for their victory over the Pharaohs of Egypt during their first Group D match at the ongoing African Cup of Nations (AFCON) on Tuesday in Cameroon.

    Gbajabiamila was elated that the Super Eagles put up a superlative performance to defeat the Pharaohs of Egypt, who are considered one of the favourites of the tournament.

    The Speaker, who is the leader of the Federal Government’s delegation to cheer up the Super Eagles, noted with delight the team spirit among the Eagles players.

    He urged the Super Eagles to maintain the same spirit and tempo throughout the tournament so that they would come back home with the trophy.

    Gbajabiamila also lauded the technical crew of the Super Eagles for doing a good job.

    He also applauded the Minister of Youth and Sports, Sunday Dare and his team, and the leadership of the Nigeria Football Federation.

  • AFCON: Iheanacho’s Goal Leads Super Eagles To Victory Over Egypt

    AFCON: Iheanacho’s Goal Leads Super Eagles To Victory Over Egypt

    The Super Eagles of Nigeria scored a first-half goal to defeat Egypt 1-0 win in their opening African Cup of Nations (AFCON) match at the Roumdé Adjia stadium in Garoua, Cameroon, on Tuesday.

    Kelechi Iheanacho’s well taken goal proved the matchwinner as Nigeria recorded its first win over Egypt in the third opening day AFCON meeting between both nations.

    Nigeria also made it four wins in nine AFCON matches against Egypt.

    The Super Eagles started the better side with direct running on the wings, especially from Moses Simon on the left wing.

    Despite the pitch denying both teams zip on the ball, Nigeria adapted better and Simon could only shoot the side netting when played through on goal.

    Coach Augustin Eguavoen’s side deservedly went ahead on 30 minutes through Iheanacho. The self-styled Senioman Kelz controlled Aribo’s header before planting a half-volley into the left top corner for his 11th international goal.

    Iheanacho and Awoniyi linked up severally in the match, the former finding the later for a shot that was held by goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy as the Eagles went into the break with a deserved lead.

    Nigeria again started the better side in the second half, Simon shooting wide before Awoniyi’s header was tipped onto the bar by El Shenawy as Nigeria went in search for a second goal.

    The Pharaohs’ double substitutions meant the match became an end-to-end encounter, Salah denied by Maduka Okoye while Kelechi and substitute Chidera Ejuke also went close for the Eagles.

    The Eagles backline, however, stifled Carlos Quiroz’s men to claim all three points, going top of Group D while Egypt sank to the bottom.

    Nigeria will face Sudan in their second game on Saturday, at the same stadium.

  • Super Eagles Avenge Defeat on Central African Republic with 2-0 Victory

    Super Eagles Avenge Defeat on Central African Republic with 2-0 Victory

    Nigeria on Sunday avenged their 1-0 defeat to the Central African Republic, with a 2-0 victory.

    The three-time African champions were shocked at home by the Wild Beasts on Thursday, in a 2022 World Cup qualifying game.

    However, on Sunday, Gernot Rohr’s men made their superiority count in Douala, Cameroon.

    Leon Balogun volleyed the Super Eagles into the lead in the first half before Victor Osimhen doubled their advantage just before the break.

    Osimhen failed to add another goal, as he saw his effort blocked on the line.

    With this win, Nigeria remain top of Group C with nine points from four games while CAR remain on four points.

  • Qatar 2022: LASG to divert traffic around  Teslim Balogun Stadium ahead of Super Eagles’ qualifying match

    Qatar 2022: LASG to divert traffic around Teslim Balogun Stadium ahead of Super Eagles’ qualifying match

     The Lagos State Government (LASG)  will divert traffic leaving and coming into the Teslim  Balogun Stadium area on Thursday in preparation for the FIFA 2022 World Cup Qualifying Match between Nigeria and the Central African Republic (CAR).

    A statement issued by the Commissioner for Transportation, Dr Frederic Oladeinde, in Lagos said that vehicles would be restricted from accessing Surulere from the Teslim Balogun Stadium axis from 12:00 noon on Thursday.

    Oladeinde stated that these would include the service lane inbound the National Stadium from Alaka and the Teslim Balogun Stadium from Ojuelegba.

    “Motorists heading toward Costain, and Lagos Island from Masha/ Kilo and Surulere are advised to use Adeniran Ogunsanya or Bode Thomas to link Iponri or Eric Moore to access their destinations.

    “On the alternative, motorists are advised to utilise Adelabu to connect Babs Animashaun/Eric Moore axis to link Brewery and access Costain or Eko Bridge.

    “Also, motorists can use the aforementioned route to access Surulere from Lagos Island.

    “Motorists heading toward Ikorodu Road from Surulere are also advised to make use of Akerele to link Ogunlana Drive inward Itire road and connect Ojuelegba to their destinations,” he said.

    The commissioner assured the commuting public that the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) alongside other security agencies would be on ground to ensure seamless flow of traffic before, during and after the match.

    He appealed for the cooperation of the residents of Surulere community and all other motorists that would be plying the affected axis.

    our correspondent reports that the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) had proposed to stage three Super Eagles’ World Cup Home Qualifying Matches in Lagos State.

    The first in the series took place on Sept. 3, between the Super Eagles of Nigeria and Lone Stars of Liberia where Nigeria trounced Liberia by two goals to nil.

    The second match which was between Cape Verde and Nigeria was played on Sept 7, and Nigeria defeated Cape Verde by two goals to one. 

  • World Cup Qualifiers: Coach expresses confidence in Super Eagles performance

    World Cup Qualifiers: Coach expresses confidence in Super Eagles performance

     Ifeanyi Ubah, the Coach of  FCT Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) Under-15,  has expressed confidence in Super Eagles performance and urged them to beat Central Africa Republic (CAR) in their next match.

    Ubah told our correspopndent on Tuesday that the Super Eagles defeating Cape Verde 2-1 was a great relief.

    “I have no doubt in my mind that these players will again make Nigeria proud in their next match against CAR,“ he said.

    He said that Super Eagles play their World Cup qualifier away match against Cape Verde without any of its English Premier League (EPL) stars.

    Cape Verde is one of the countries listed on the UK’s COVID-19 “red list” and so players in the EPL were barred from travelling to CAR.

    “Super Eagles played without their keys EPL players,  Kelechi Iheanacho, Wilfred Ndidi, William Troost-Ekong, Alex Iwobi, Joe Aribo, Leon Balogun and Oghenekaro Etebo

    “Well, I am optimistic the Super Eagles will pick the maximum point but they must be very careful in their next match against CAR,” he said.

    Super Eagles dominated but Cape Verde Dylan Tavares scored in the 19th minute .

    The Super Eagles, however, levelled 10 minutes later when Victor Osimhen scored Nigeria’s first goal of the game.

    “With the 2-1 result in favour of Nigeria, the country has garnered six points from two games to occupy the topmost of Group C,” he said.

    He urged the technical crew to turn its attention on CAR game as CAR would be fighting Nigeria to have a win in their next match. 

  • Cape Verde Victory boosts football enthusiasts’ confidence in Super Eagles

    Cape Verde Victory boosts football enthusiasts’ confidence in Super Eagles

    Football enthusiasts have expressed confidence in the ability of the Super Eagles to qualify for the Qatar 2022 World Cup, after beating the Blue Sharks of Cape Verde 2-1 away.

    Our correspondent, reports that a 75th minute own goal by Cape Verde, earned Nigeria a 2-1 win in their qualifying clash in Mindelo, on Tuesday.

    The precious away win took the Super Eagles to a firm position at the top of Group C, of the African race of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.

    Our correspondent also reports that the result stabilised the Eagles’ leadership of the group as they await a home-and-away fixture against Central African Republic next month.

    A cross section of football enthusiasts who spoke to NAN in separate interviews, noted that the win showed the strength and depth of the squad in spite of the absence of some key players.

    They expressed confidence in the team, adding that nothing could stop the Super Eagles from qualifying for the upcoming World Cup.

    Gbenga Elegbeleye, former Director-General of the defunct National Sports Commission (NSC), said the victory was a clear statement of intent to qualify for the tournament.

    “An away victory is not always easy, and Cape Verde are not pushovers in football, they have a very strong team as all the footballers are Europe based professionals.

    “The three points is a clear signal that the super eagles are unstoppable in their quest to qualify for the World Cup,” Elegbeleye said.

    Tajudeen Akinyemi, Chairman of the Ondo State Football (ODSFA), said the Eagles proved to Africa, and indeed the world, that they were a team to reckon with.

    “A resounding and rewarding victory. Splendid it was.

    “It has shown that Super Eagles can produce three consecutive teams at least, for any competition in Africa.

    “It is encouraging indeed. When the first team players were not among the players to play against the Blue Sharks of Cape Verde, many Nigerians, including me, did not have confidence in their capabilities.

    “Super Eagles is a team to reckon with a lot of talents and experience,” Akinyemi said.

    The former President of Nigeria Professional Football League side, Sunshine Stars Football Club of Akure, expressed confidence in the ability of the team to qualify.

    “The Qatar 2022 will be easier for Nigeria to qualify. However, we should not underrate any team, as football in Africa is unpredictable.

    “Let us cross our fingers for Eagles against Central Africa back to back in October. Eagles are going to be victorious,” he said.

    Godwin Bamigboye, former Chairman of FCT Football Coaches Association, said that the Eagles were resilient and showed mental strength to pull off the victory in spite of the odds.

    “The Super Eagles were able to go ahead to beat their opponents at their own backyard, and top their group in spite of playing without majority of the regulars, still proved their mettle.

    “It is quite commendable that they were able to compose themselves and played well, even while they were down by a goal early in the game,” Bamigboye said.

    The former Chairman, Technical Committee, FCT Football Association, noted that the team assembled by Coach Gernot Rohr for the match was equally as good as the first team that executed the Liberia game.

    “This has gone ahead to justify the inclusion of the new players in the Super Eagles. They are still relatively young and have the opportunity to grow up and become the strong Eagles that they are.

    “Remember that the Cape Verde team are not pushovers. They also have quite a young squad.

    “They however, were up against a more experienced Super Eagles team, which has proved its leadership in African football to a reasonable extent.

    “So, by every standard, the Super Eagles were seen as “superior” to the Blue Sharks.

    “However, football does not always play out that way. You can underrate a team and they go ahead and surprise you.

    “It was very important that we went into the game with a clear intent and focus,” Bamigboye said.

    The Chairman, FCT Football Association, Mouktar Mohammed, said: “It is great news and a massive away win for the Super Eagles.

    “It has put the team in a good position and added confidence.

    “The road to any qualification is rough and tough, so you need the results to come in good for you… Be it luck… Be it shine… Even if the play is not so attractive…

    “We must also be vigilant and not relax. We are growing the pool of talents that can represent Nigeria,” he  said.

    Bartolomew David, current Chairman, FCT Football Coaches Association, said the victory was quite encouraging.

    “ The team and the handlers should remain focused. Subsequent wins will give us the desired qualification,” David said.

  • Qatar 2022: Lagos strategic to Super Eagles’ successful campaign – LSSC

    Qatar 2022: Lagos strategic to Super Eagles’ successful campaign – LSSC

     The Chairman, Lagos State Sports Commission (LSSC), Sola Aiyepeku, says the continued hosting of the Super Eagles’ matches will ensure Nigeria’s qualification for the finals of Qatar 2022 World Cup.

    Aiyepeku made the remark in an interview with our correspondent in Lagos on Thursday, ahead of the Super Eagles 2022 World Cup qualifier against the Lone Stars of Liberia on Friday.

    The match will take place at the Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere, Lagos.

    Aiyepeku described Lagos as the fourth largest economy in Africa, blessed with the right infrastructure to host such an important match.

    “Lagos is for excellence and aside this, we can’t deny the strategic location of this city as the heartbeat of Nigeria’s economy, reputably the fourth largest economy in Africa.

    “In Lagos, we have the busiest airport.

    “For example, if the Super Eagles will have to play in other state, they will have to transit from the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, because they will first land here to connect other states.

    “Lagos boasts of ready-made infrastructure and logistics that will make the Super Eagles players comfortable, relax and in good standing for successful campaigns in their matches.

    “The economy of Lagos and its infrastructure already transcend football because we are talking about things on ground, facilities that can absorb any pressure.

    “Lagos should be home to the Eagles,” he said.

    Aiyepeku noted that the mood of the Super Eagles, whenever they were in Lagos, suggested that they felt more at home playing in the state.

    According to the LSSC chief, the state always gives some other incentives.

    “Another issue is that the players themselves always feel at home in Lagos; most of them reside in Lagos; they have their families here and other things.

    “We, as hosts, also ensure that we have added incentives to aid their playing here. Last time, we provided and financed their trip via boats to Benin Republic for the AFCON qualifiers.

    “Also, we ensure that they are more relaxed while they get to visit the governor and also have lunch with the officials. All these we are doing from the concept that they are professional footballers.

    “In terms of expectations, the government in Lagos is ready to meet them, which is the reason we provided the needed pitch.

    “The players were excited to see such an excellent natural grass pitch,” he said.

    Aiyepeku, however, noted that having Lagos as a successful host was made possible by the sports-loving Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who made sure that things were put in good shape.

    “We are here today to tell this story but all thanks to our sports-loving Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who gave all the needed support.

    “We need to enforce strict COVID-19 rules and crowd control. We have stepped up our security arrangements; so, we advise those who do not have match tickets to stay away.

    “Nigeria is one of about four lucky countries that have up to 5,000 spectators allowed to watch matches. No thanks to the third wave of COVID-19.

    “Other countries only have just 1,000 or 1,500; so, we don’t want to ruin our chances.

    “We implore our Lagos fans to please stay off the stadium and support the team at home, because our law enforcement officers will be mandated to ensure decorum, ” he said. 

  • Nigeria thrash Lesotho 3-0 in AFCON Qualifiers

    Nigeria thrash Lesotho 3-0 in AFCON Qualifiers

    Super Eagles beat Lesotho 3-0 in their final Group L match in the 2021 AFCON Qualifiers at the Teslim Balogun Stadium in Lagos State on Tuesday.

    Napoli’s striker Victor Osimhen gave Super Eagles their first goal 22nd minute into the match while Oghenekaro Etebo doubled the Nigerian team lead in the 51st minute.

    Paul Onuachu who came in for Osimhen in the 74th minutes scored the nine minutes after.

    Details later