Deputy Senate President, Ndidi, others motivate Flying Eagles big for AFCON ticket

As part of efforts to spur the U20 Boys National Team, Flying Eagles, to book an AFCON 2025ticket at the expense of Niger Republic on Saturday, well-meaning Nigerians from all walks of life have donated cash towards motivating the squad to victory. Deputy Senate President, Distinguished SenatorBarau Jibrin has rewarded the team’s effort so farwith the sum of N2 million. Super Eagles and Leicester City midfielder, Wilfred Ndidi, who graduated through the Flying Eagles’ rank, came up big and showered his blessings on the team with the sum of N5 million. Chairman of Crystal Sapphire Ltd, Frank Peters doled out the sum of N1.5 million with a pledge of another huge sum if the team defeats their Nigerien counterparts in Saturday’s semi-final.Also, a member of the football family, Mr. Victor Apugo has gifted the team N1 million with a promise to add another N2 million if the Flying Eagles fly past Niger Republic in the semi-final tie. Meanwhile, Switzerland-based Nigerian coach, Adedeji Adeyemi Anthony has redeemed his pledge of N1 million to the team for the victory over the Young Elephants of Cote d’Ivoire.Mavlon FC Chairman, Barrister Kenneth Agadugba has deposited the sum of N2 millionwith a pledge to make it N12 million if the team soars high to the grand finale of the tournament. Earlier on Thursday, a senior member of Staff of the Nigeria Football Federation dished out the sum of N1 million, while another member of the football fraternity who does not want his name in print has given the seven-time African championsthe sum of N1.5 million. The Flying Eagles are billed to take on Niger Republic in the semi-final on Saturday at 2pm Nigeria time. Victory will earn them a place in the final, as well as a ticket to next year’s AFCON U20 finals.

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Special Eagles honour NFF President, Gusau

President of the Nigeria Football Federation, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau MON, has received a prestigious award from the Special Eagles, Nigeria’s esteemed amputee football team. This honour was bestowed upon him at the NFF Headquarters in Abuja on Friday during a courtesy visit led by the Special Eagles’ President, Mr. Paul Maduakor. The Special Eagles team, comprising remarkable amputee footballers who have triumphed over physical limitations, have over the yearsdemonstrated exceptional resilience and determination. Their achievements serve as a testament to the transformative power of sports. Gusau expressed heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Maduakor and his team, emphasizing the vital importance of encouragement and support for individuals with disabilities. The NFF President reaffirmed the Federation’s commitment to supporting the Special Eagles, acknowledging their inspirational role in promoting football among persons with disabilities. “We will explore avenues to provide support and foster collaboration between the NFF and the Special Eagles,” he added. Key officials present included the NFF General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi MON; Special Eagles Technical Director, Victor Onyeakachukwu Nwenwe; two Special Eagles players; and Special Eagles Secretary-General, Madam Nonye Nwose. This visit marked a significant step towards strengthening ties between the NFF and the Special Eagles, paving the way for mutual growth and development. The partnership aims to promote football development and empowerment programs for persons with disabilities.

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WAFU B U20: Flying Eagles soar over Elephants into semi-finals

Nigeria came from behind to edge a flaming battle with Cote d’Ivoire 2-1 in Lome on Thursday to reach the semi-finals of this year’s WAFU B U20 Championship. In the event, Burkina Faso’s Young Etalons were eliminated on inferior goal-count against those of the Flying Eagles and the Young Elephants. Nigeria scored two goals and conceded two, same for the Ivorians, with all three teams in group B finishing with three points each. The Burkinabes scored one and conceded one, in beating Nigeria and losing to the Ivorians, by the odd goal each way. Victory handed Aliyu Zubair’s side the opportunity to continue chasing the defence of their title, won in Niamey two years ago. A feisty first half at the Municipal Stadium ended scoreless. Bidemi Amole’s hopeful shot from distance sailed wide, while striker Kparobo’s powerful shot was pushed out for a corner by the Ivorian goalkeeper. In the 39th minute, Nigeria’s appeal for a penaltywas rejected by the referee. As the first half drew to a close, the Flying Eagles continued to press, with Amole’s effort crashing against the crossbar. The second half witnessed increased urgency from the Flying Eagles. Côte d’Ivoire’s effort was chalked off in the 48th minute, and Nigeria’s striker Kparobo was denied by the goalkeeper in the 53rd minute. Amole, again, came close soon after. The Ivorians finally broke the deadlock in the 62nd minute, but Clinton Jephta equalized for Nigeria shortly after. Kparobo Arierhi scored the winning goal, securing a 2-1 win for the Flying Eagles. “We showed resilience and determination,” said Coach Aliyu Zubairu, “We’re delighted with the victory and look forward to the semi-finals.” Nigeria will take on Niger Republic in Saturday’s semi-finals.

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Super Eagles soar on FIFA ranking 

Nigeria’s Super Eagles have moved three places to 36th position in the World football governing body, FIFA monthly ranking.  The former African champions, who seating at the summit of the AFCON 2025 qualifiers polled 1503.29 points in the October.  Nigeria is ask ranked third behind Morocco, Senegal and Egypt in Africa.  Meanwhile, the top three teams are also bunching up. Argentina (1st) are still on top, but their lead over France (2nd) and Spain (3rd) has been cut. England (4th), Brazil (5th) and Belgium (6th) have all held on to their positions. Portugal (7th, up 1) and Italy (9th, up 1) are the only climbers within the top ten, which is completed by the Netherlands (8th, down 1) and Colombia (10th, down 1), with Germany (11th, up 2) now knocking on the door. Elsewhere, Algeria (37th, up 4), Peru (38th, up 5) and Greece (42nd, up 6) have all made moves worthy of note, and Cameroon (49th, up 4) have returned to the top 50. Other African teams to have made significant progress in the ranking include Equatorial Guinea (88th, up 6), Zimbabwe (117th, up 7), The Gambia (128th, up 7) and Botswana (140th, up 7), the last of whom, the Zebras, have posted the biggest jump overall in terms of points gained (up 38.30 points). There is further cause for celebration for Africa as two other CAF teams have climbed the most places (ten) in this edition of the ranking, namely Comoros (108th) and Sudan (110th), who came out on top against Tunisia and Ghana, respectively, in their recent home-and-away duels as part of the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 qualifiers. Comoros have been on the up for several months now and they are once again in their highest-ever position in the FIFA/Coca-Cola Men’s World Ranking. The next FIFA World Ranking will be published on 28 November 2024.

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Marrakech to host 2024 CAF award 

The CAF award will be hosted in the tourist city of Marrakech, Morocco, on 16 December 2024, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has announced. This is the third time in a row Morocco is hosting the ceremony, after a glittering star-studded African fanfare last year. CAF will confirm the starting time of the CAFAwards24 in due course. The reigning African Footballer of the Year is Nigerian forward, Victor Osimhen (men category), with his compatriot Asisat Oshoala also claiming the honours in the women’s category. The CAF Awards recognize exceptional performances in both club and national competitions, culminating in the prestigious titles of CAF African Player of the Year in both men’s and women’s categories.

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NPFL: Ideye close to Rivers United move 

Rivers United manager, Finidi George has hinted that former Super Eagles striker Brown Ideye is close to joining his team. Ideye was recently seen training with Rivers United and watching their games from the stands. In an interview with the media, Finidi said he is open to Ideye joining the NPFL club. “Yea, there is every likelihood that he will join us. He wants to give back. That is the most important thing. He has that hunger. We’ve seen that in Ahmed Musa. “If he is willing to do that, I think I will welcome him. He is giving back, We can’t pay him. “Brown is a player I’ve known for years, and his experience speaks for itself. We thought it would be beneficial for our players, especially the younger ones, to learn from someone who has competed at the highest level. “It wasn’t just about his skillset, but the professionalism and work ethic he brings to the table. That’s something every team needs, especially as we aim for greater success this season.” Finidi emphasised that the players are already benefiting from Ideye’s time at the club. “The impact has been immediate. You can see the younger players trying to impress, learning from his movement, his tactical awareness, and his ability to handle pressure. Brown is very approachable, and he’s been open to giving advice and sharing his experiences in Europe and with the national team.” Finidi added that Ideye’s ability to remain calm and focused under pressure has been one of the biggest takeaways for the squad. “It’s not every day that our younger players get to interact with someone who’s played in the Premier League and at the World Cup. “It’s crucial for Nigerian football. When players like Brown, who have had successful international careers, come back and stay involved with local teams, it raises the standard. It also shows the younger players that they can aspire to reach those heights. “This isn’t just about Rivers United; it’s about Nigerian football as a whole. The more veterans stay engaged, the more our domestic league grows in quality and competitiveness. “It sends a powerful message to the players when someone like Brown takes time out to not only train but also support them during a match,” George said.  “It shows them that they are worth watching that their progress matters. It’s a huge source of inspiration.” The striker once played for Ocean Boys of Bayelsa in the Nigerian league between 2006 and 2007, scoring 10 goals in 13 appearances.

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CAF Women’s CL: Edo Queens draw defending champions, Sundowns, 2 others 

Nigeria’s representative, Edo Queens has been drawn against defending champions, Mamelodi Sundowns of South Africa in Group B of the CAF Women’s Champions League Morocco 2024.  Mamelodi Sundowns are aiming for a record third title, but must first overcome a tricky Group B consisting of three highly determined debutants in Tutankhamun of Egypt, Ethiopia’s CBE FC as well as the Edo Queens of Nigeria. The official draw of the CAF Women’s Champions League Morocco 2024 was officially conducted at the Complex Mohamed VI in Salé, Morocco on Friday, 18 October. The fourth edition of Africa’s premier women’s club competition will be hosted in Morocco between 09 – 23 November 2024 where eight (8) clubs consisting of champions of CAF’s Six Zonal joining hosts AS FAR as well as defending champions, Mamelodi Sundowns of South Africa to contest the coveted title. Winners will get USD 400 000 in prize money with runners-up walking away with USD 250 000.  The draw, which was conducted by former Morocco and ASFAR Player, as well as U23 Morocco Women’s National Team Assistant Coach, Fatiha Laasiri saw the qualified clubs drawn into the two groups of four where they will all be aiming at a top two finish to advance to the knockout stages. Tournament hosts and 2022 winners, AS FAR headline Group A consisting of two debutants in Aigles De La Medina of Senegal, as well as South Africa’s, University of Western Cape. TP Mazembe makes a return to the tournament after missing out on the last edition, as they make up the fourth club in Group A. CAF Women’s Champions League Egypt 2024 Draw Results:  GROUP A: AS FAR (Morocco), Aigles De La Medina (Senegal) TP Mazembe (DR Congo), University of Western Cape (South Africa) GROUP B: Mamelodi Sundowns (South Africa), Tutankhamun (Egypt), CBE (Ethiopia), Edu Queens (Nigeria)

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Hurghada, Egypt ready for CAF Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations kick-off 

The awe-striking coastal city of Hurghada – the largest city in the red sea in Egypt – will host the kick-off match of the CAF Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations Egypt 2024 this weekend. The opening match will be played on Saturday, 19 October 2024 with hosts Egypt in action at 16h30 Egypt time (13h30 GMT) against Ghana. Morocco and Tanzania will play at 15h00 (12h30 GMT). Senegal are the defending champions – having won the trophy last year in Vilankulos in Mozambique. For the sixth edition of the CAF Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations scheduled to kick-off this weekend, eight African Nations will be divided into two groups. The Groups: The top two teams from the tournament will earn a coveted spot in Africa’s first ever FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup, Seychelles 2025. This will bring Africa’s numbers at the World Cup to three. Group A: Egypt, Morocco, Tanzania, Ghana Group B: Senegal, Mozambique, Malawi, Mauritania

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