The interim head coach of Warri Wolves, Johnny Austin, has urged his team to secure a victory against Rivers United in their upcoming match. He implored the players to give their best effort to overturn their recent defeat. Austin expressed strong belief in his squad's capabilities, stating he knows what they can achieve.
This encouragement follows a narrow loss to Ikorodu City in their previous fixture. The Seasiders, who have accumulated 18 points this season, will face their neighbors in Port Harcourt.
Former Nigeria player Ahmed Garba predicts the Super Eagles will defeat DR Congo in the upcoming World Cup qualifying final. While acknowledging the Congolese team's physical style and their impressive victory over Cameroon, Garba expressed confidence in the Nigerian squad. He stated that the team is developing well and has regained its confidence.
Garba based his optimistic outlook on Nigeria's strong semi-final performance, a 4-1 win against Gabon, where Victor Osimhen scored two goals. The final match will determine which African team advances to the intercontinental playoffs for a chance to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Victor Osimhen acknowledged a recent dispute over unpaid bonuses between the Nigerian national team and its football federation. The striker confirmed the issue required resolution but praised NFF President Ibrahim Gusau for his swift intervention to address the players' concerns. Osimhen stated that the matter was subsequently resolved, allowing the team to focus on their matches.
His comments followed the Super Eagles' 4-1 victory over Gabon in a World Cup qualifying playoff. The team had previously suspended training in protest of the unpaid allowances, but resumed after the federation president became involved. Osimhen expressed satisfaction that the situation was settled.
Shakirat Moshood, captain of Nigeria's Flamingos, has been nominated for the CAF Women’s Young Player of the Year award. The forward, who led her national U-17 team at a recent World Cup, also helped her club Bayelsa Queens win the domestic league title. She will compete against Morocco's Moha El Madani, last year's winner, and Senegal's Adji Ndiye for the honor.
In another category, the Nigerian senior women's team, the Super Falcons, were shortlisted for the Women’s National Team of the Year. Their competitors for that award are the Moroccan and Ghanaian national teams.
The head coach of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Sebastien Desabre, affirmed his team's capability to defeat Nigeria, a nation he acknowledged as the best in Africa. Despite recognizing Nigeria's superior ranking, Desabre expressed confidence in his squad's experienced players and their long-term development. He vowed that his team would give their complete effort in the upcoming World Cup qualifying final.
The Leopards secured their place in the final after a stoppage-time goal from captain Chancel Mbemba delivered a 1-0 victory over Cameroon. The match against Nigeria will determine which team advances to the intercontinental playoffs for a chance to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Former Nigeria coach Sunday Oliseh praised defender Benjamin Fredrick for his influential performance in the victory over Gabon. Oliseh identified the young player as the most impactful on the field, highlighting his excellent positioning, pace, and decisive play. He also noted Fredrick's simple and effective style.
The 20-year-old defender, who is currently on loan at Dender from Brentford, formed a strong defensive partnership with Calvin Bassey. Fredrick contributed to the 4-1 win by assisting Victor Osimhen for a goal after winning possession. Having made his national team debut recently, he has now become a key figure for the Super Eagles.
Victor Osimhen confirmed that a spectator deliberately targeted him with a laser pointer during Nigeria's World Cup qualifying match against Gabon. The striker stated he saw the individual in the stands attempting to distract him. He interpreted the act as a tactic aimed at disrupting the Nigerian team's performance due to their recognized quality.
Osimhen, who scored two goals in the 4-1 victory, said he chose to ignore the distraction and continue playing. His teammates Akor Adams and Chidera Ejuke also scored in the semi-final playoff encounter.
Akor Adams explained that Nigeria's first-half scoring difficulties against Gabon stemmed from a lack of effectiveness, despite creating opportunities. The Sevilla striker expressed his deep personal commitment to the national team, stating he plays with his heart and considers representing Nigeria an honor and a privilege. He expressed gratitude for the victory and that the team emerged without injuries.
Adams, who scored the opening goal in the match, has now scored in consecutive away fixtures for the Super Eagles. His second-half goal contributed to a 4-1 victory that sent Nigeria into the final World Cup qualifying playoff against DR Congo.
Following a commanding defensive performance against Gabon, Nigerian defender Calvin Bassey has urged Brentford to integrate Benjamin Fredrick into their Premier League first team. Bassey described his international teammate as an amazing talent with unbelievable potential, praising the young player's attitude and eagerness to learn. The 20-year-old Fredrick delivered a strong display in the World Cup qualifying semi-final, effectively neutralizing Gabon's Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.
Nigeria secured a 4-1 victory in that match, with goals from Adams Akor, Chidera Ejuke, and a brace from Victor Osimhen. The win sets up a final playoff match against DR Congo, who defeated Cameroon 1-0. Bassey also expressed confidence in the Super Eagles'...
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