Well such may be the case for some but not all... I cannot vouch much for the authenticity of the ages of those young stars during the Pre-MRI era (MRI era began 2011 in full but was test run randomly in 2009)..... but I also know that a young player can lose his way if not properly managed and nurtured. African Kids face a lot of challenges adapting to and growing up in a foreign land when not under proper guidance and that can adversely affect their football growth and stunt their talents devt. It happened even to Europeans and South Americans. Read about Leandro Depertris and you will see and understand something extra...

Some of Brazil's and Spain's talents and even Europeans from the U-17s didn't also match expectations... so it is not limited to Africans.

All continents are guilty of same.

Isahalbash:









I get it now, d 1999 was referring to Addo not Dominic Adiyiah.

but serious, it seems like those guys our u17/u20s who flopped after d jnr tournament were only doing well at those tournament, because they played against their younger brothers.



Just my opinion...

Opponents Watch


Which Coach Will Be In The Dugout Algeria Vs Nigeria? Ex-Man City Star Favored



The Algerian Football Federation (FAF) are poised to confirm the dismissal of Spanish tactician Lucas Alcaraz, with the executive committee voting unanimously to do away with his services at a meeting on Wednesday.

While it is all but confirmed that the former Granada manager will get the chop, his contract is still running as the Algerian Federation have not yet discussed the terms of the termination of his contract and the financial compensation.

If there is an agreement between the two parties, the FAF will terminate the contract of the Spaniard and announce it officially through a press release via the official website.

According to the reliable Algerian football website Le Buteur, the Algerian Federation are in advanced talks with former Manchester City midfielder Djamel Belmadi over becoming the new Desert Foxes coach.

Another name being bandied about for the job is ex-Monaco and Marseille defender Rolland Courbis.

In the event that a substantive coach is not appointed by the Algerian Federation before their World Cup qualifier against Nigeria, then Boualem Charef will take over the coaching reins on an interim basis.


**Igho Kingsley


Source: http://www.allnigeriasoccer.com/read_news.php?nid=24981

TheSuperNerd:
Well such may be the case for some but not all... I cannot vouch much for the authenticity of the ages of those young stars during the Pre-MRI era (MRI era began 2011 in full but was test run randomly in 2009)..... but I also know that a young player can lose his way if not properly managed and nurtured. African Kids face a lot of challenges adapting to and growing up in a foreign land when not under proper guidance and that can adversely affect their football growth and stunt their talents devt. It happened even to Europeans and South Americans. Read about Leandro Depertris and you will see and understand something extra...

Some of Brazil's and Spain's talents and even Europeans from the U-17s didn't also match expectations... so it is not limited to Africans.

All continents are guilty of same.

Daz true sha... check d current India u17 at d ongoing tournament, they too young.

Anothorsis Famagusta Place Hefty Price Tag On Super Eagles MOTM Shehu Abdullahi




Cyprus league leaders Anorthosis Famagusta have placed a hefty price tag on their Nigerian midfielder cum defender Shehu Abdullahi to fend off teams interested in snapping him up in January.

Abdullahi was voted Man of the Match in Nigeria’s 1-0 win over Zambia, and also made the CAF BEST XI players for the fifth round of World Cup 2018 Qualifiers, a feat that has caught the attention of clubs in Europe..

Abdullahi moved to the club two summers ago from relegated Portuguese side Uniao de Madeira, and since moving to the team he has been ever present for them in their domestic and continental games.

A price tag in excess of €10m has been placed on the 24 year old who was a part of the Nigeria Olympic team that won bronze at the Rio 2016 Olympic , and can play as a full back or defensive midfielder.

According to Owngoalnigeria.com transfer expert Daniel Martins the fee was placed on the Super Eagles rave of the moment to fend clubs from snapping him up in January, but it could be lowered in the summer.
DONT MISS ==> Borrusia Dortmund, Stuttgart Contact Gent Over PSG Target Anderson Esiti

“His asking price plus add-ons is in excess of €10m, the fee went up after his steady rise at the club especially his performances for Nigeria. To many it’s like a trap to keep him till the summer, when the club will be open to business because he will have just one year left on his deal”, Martins said.

” He is very vital to their title aspirations, so they are doing all in their power to keep him at the club at least till next summer. Hopefully he will move to a big club after the World Cup”.


**Osas Mahawi


Source: http://owngoalnigeria.com/2017/10/12/anothorsis-famagusta-place-hefty-price-tag-on-super-eagles-motm-shehu-abdullahi/

Super Eagles Star Moses Simon Reveals Why Arsenal Ace Alex Iwobi Is Special




Gent of Belgium forward Moses Simon is a big admirer of Arsenal forward Alex Iwobi who is his international teammate in the senior national team of Nigeria.

Simon started Nigeria’s last game against Zambia ahead of the Arsenal ace, who scored the winning minutes after coming on in place of Simon in the game which sealed Nigeria’s spot at next year World Cup.

Speaking to Owngoalnigeria.com, Simon who has been ever present for Nigeria in their World Cup 2018 Qualifiers campaign picked out some qualities that make Iwobi a special player.

” Iwobi is a special player, I don’t think that is news to anybody, but what makes him special is his ability to pick out a pass even when he is under pressure. He knows when to use his pace and when to apply his brains”, Simon told Owngoalnigeria.com.

” From the sessions we have had and what I have seen of him. He plays more with his brain than his legs especially when he is in the box of the opponent. I’m happy to be playing alongside a player like him”. Simon concluded.



**Osas Mahawi


Source: http://owngoalnigeria.com/2017/10/12/super-eagles-star-moses-simon-reveals-why-arsenal-ace-alex-iwobi-is-special/

Okocha: Super Eagles Can Shock The World In Russia
EXCLUSIVE By David Meshioye




Erstwhile Super Eagles captain, Austin ‘Jay Jay’ Okocha, has stated in clear terms that Nigeria look good enough to send shock waves around the globe with scintillating showing when the 2018 FIFA World Cup gets underway in Russia, Completesportsnigeria.com reports.

In an exclusive chat with Completesportsnigeria.com from London, the former Bolton Wanderer star expresses his strong belief that the Super Eagles are still work in progress that will become a strong World Cup Squad.

Okocha says that the world will watch with envy when Nigerian side storm product in Russia 2018 as a finished product.He says he cannot help but admire the massive talents at Gernot Rohr ‘s disposal, adding that all that is required now is for the players to look beyond Africa’s semi-final expectations.”

Nigeria is raising a great side that will shock the world in Russia,” Okocha tells Completesportsnigeria.com during an exclusive chat.”
If you look at the ’embarrassment’ of young talents the country is parading now, it shows that we will have a good team in Russia.”
But they need to believe in themselves and realise that they are better than just being a partaker.”


Source: https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/okocha-eagles-can-shock-work-russia/

Rohr Insists On Strong Super Eagles Squad Vs Algeria
By Bamidele Boluwaji





Super Eagles Coach Gernot Rohr has insisted that the nucleus of his current squad will be invited for their last 2018 FIFA World Cup African qualifying Group B away match against Algeria next month, Completesportsnigeria.com reports.


The former Burkina Faso manager who led Nigeria to beat Zambia 1-0 last Saturday in their matchday-5 to qualify for the Russia 2018 has started discussing his programme for the Algeria match with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).


Super Eagles Media Officer, Toyin Ibitoye told Completesportsnigeria.com that the priority of the Franco-German coach now is how to win the away match to finish the qualifiers with 16points.

“We are all happy that we have qualified for the World Cup, but coach Rohr is not resting yet. He has started preparation for the Algeria match and he has insisted that he is going to use the best of his players in the away match,” Ibitoye told Completesportsnigeria.com.


“He has been discussing the next match with the FA, and his priority now despite qualifying for the World Cup, is to win the away match to end the qualifier with 16points.

“I think he believes winning the match will help the bonding in the team and also make the players to prepare for the future.
Nigeria amassed an unassailable 13 points after five games in Group B.





Source: https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/rohr-insists-strong-squad-vs-algeria/

Ike Uche Delighted With Brace In Gimnastic Win
By Johnny Edward




Former Super Eagles striker Ikechukwu Uche is pleased to have scored a brace for Gimnàstic Tarragona in Wednesday’s 2-0 home win over his former team Granada in the Spanish second division at the Nou Estadi de Tarragona Stadium, Completesportsnigeria.com reports.

Uche fired a brace in three minutes to hand Gimnàstic Tarragona their second win of the season in eight games. The goal was also his third this term.

The 33-year-old opened scoring in the 27th minute before adding another goal in the 31st minute of the encounter.

He took to his Instagram page to express his delight at the win.

“Glad with the three points gained, we will continue to work harder. Congratulations team, It was a good win which was important,” he wrote via his photo sharing wall on Instagram.

Uche was replaced in the 68th minute of the encounter by Juan Muniz in what was his eighth game of the season.

Gimnàstic Tarragona are 20th in the 22-team LaLiga 123 log with eight points from eight games.

The former Granada striker will lead the line for Gimnàstic Tarragona in their next game against Córdoba on Sunday.


Source: https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/ike-uche-delighted-brace-gimnastic-win/

Yeah.... exactly... Just as we had in 2015, 2013 and then 2011 too.... in the pre-MRI era we still had players like KANU, Babayaro, Sammy Osei Kuffour (played U-20 too), and more who has long soccer careers meaning they were really young also at the age a grade comps like U-17 and U-20. So the MRI era is doing great things for cadet football worldwide and I pray it is sustained.

Nigeria have been one of the greatest Beneficiaries of this MRI Era even... and I hope we keep tapping into its positives for our football from the grassroots. I expect to see a better and stronger Nigeria U-17 side ahead of the start of the qualifiers for the 2019 CAF and FIFA tournaments especially with Finidi George likely to be officially confirmed as the new head coach of the team. I hope he builds on and goes even further than what the likes of Many Garba, Nduka Ugbade and Emmanuel Amuneke achieved at U-17 level for Nigeria... unearthing an enviable great number of super young talents many of which didn't even make the U-17 Worlds and some of which made the U-17 Worlds....

Preps for the U-17 CAF qualifiers should start by either late this year or early next year under Finidi's wings and I trust he will do a great job.

Isahalbash:










Daz true sha... check d current India u17 at d ongoing tournament, they too young.

Fit Again Musa Yahaya Joins FC Porto First Team In Training Ahead Cup Game




Highly rated Nigerian forward Musa Yahaya was among the players of the B team of Portuguese giants FC Porto called up to the training of the first team ahead of this weekend Cup game against Lusitano FC.

Yahaya has grown into a very influential member of the B team, where he is distinguishing himself as a right wing-back as opposed to his well known position from the left or right of attack.

He got injured after 35 minutes in a second division game for the B team against CD Nacional which they won 2-1, although he played for 85 minutes in their next league game , a 2-1 win against Cova Piedade , he suffered a relapse and missed the 4-1 win against Academico Viseu.

Now back to full fitness, he is heavily tipped to play for the first team tomorrow when they take on Lusitano in a Portuguese Cup game as Porto are expected to rest some of their regulars.



**Daniel Martins


Source: http://owngoalnigeria.com/2017/10/12/fit-again-musa-yahaya-joins-fc-porto-first-team-in-training-ahead-cup-game/

England Fear They May Face Nigeria In World Cup Group Of Death




England could face Africa powerhouse Nigeria in next year's football festival, the World Cup, according to permutations done by The Sun.

The Three Lions are set to occupy the 12th position when Fifa announces the latest ranking of national teams on Monday, which will place them in Pot 2 for the World Cup draw that will be held at the State Kremlin Palace in Moscow on December 1.
Hosts Russia, Germany, Brazil, Portugal, Argentina, Belgium, Poland and France are the top-ranked teams and will make up Pot 1.

The nightmare scenario, according to the British newspaper, is that England will be drawn alongside Brazil, Iceland and Nigeria.

England could not beat Nigeria when both teams faced off at Nagai Stadium, Osaka on June 12, 2002, despite the Africans taking an experimental squad to the tournament hosted by South Korea and Japan.

The Super Eagles outplayed England in a high profile international friendly at Wembley on November 16, 1994 but lost 1-0.


**Ifeanyi Emmanuel


Source: http://www.allnigeriasoccer.com/read_news.php?nid=24987

(See Photo) Super Eagles Star Ndidi Training With Leicester Amid Injury Reports





Super Eagles star Wilfred Ndidi is in contention to make his tenth appearance in all competitions this season when Leicester City host Hal Robson-Kanu's West Brom in the Premier League on Monday.

Speculation had been rife in the local and foreign media that the central midfielder was set for a spell on the sidelines after picking up what can now be rightly referred to as a phantom hamstring injury in Nigeria's 1-0 win over Zambia last weekend.

Ndidi was quick to dismiss those injury reports and further
confirmation was received when he was photographed training with the Foxes, along with international teammate Kelechi Iheanacho, on Thursday.


After seven matches in the English top-flight, Ndidi leads the way in tackles, 28 in total, ahead of Chelsea's France star N'Golo Kanté, who has made one less than the Nigerian.
Assuming the number 25 starts against the Baggies, it would be the 15 straight game he has been named in the starting line-up spread over two seasons.

The 20-year-old has made 18 clearances, 10 interceptions, 10 headed clearances and won 24 aerial battles this season, more than any Nigerian in the English top-flight including Victor Moses, who plays more defensively for his club.


**Ifeanyi Emmanuel
Photo Credit : lcfc.com


Source: http://www.allnigeriasoccer.com/read_news.php?nid=24986

Wenger Sends Congratulation Message To Nigerians : Our Player Scored The Goal For You


Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has sent a congratulation message to Nigerians and supporters of the Super Eagles on qualifying for the 2018 World Cup.

And the Frenchman was extremely pleased that one of his pupils, Alex Iwobi, scored the most important goal of his career to date in Saturday's game with Zambia, which sealed Nigeria's place at the World Cup.

''Good morning. Congratulations to all our fans in Nigeria. I know that there are very, very, very many of you and we are very proud that you have qualified for the World Cup,'' said Wenger in a video posted by Arsenal on their Facebook page.

''On top of that, our player scored the goal for you and that makes us ever prouder.

''Well done, and see you in the World Cup. I am sure you will have a great, great trip there.''

Iwobi, who was in action for 24 minutes against Zambia, has returned to the English capital ahead of the Gunners' Premier League match with Watford at The Vic on Saturday.


**Ifeanyi Emmanuel


Source: http://www.allnigeriasoccer.com/read_news.php?nid=24985

This Super Eagles will make us proud, says Amiesimaka

The current crop of Super Eagles players will bring glory to Nigeria in the 2018 World Cup in Russia, a former Green Eagle player says.

Adokiye Amiesimaka, a former attacking midfielder on Thursday said in Lagos that the players had shown commitment to the task ahead.

“I think we are privilege to have youthful, relatively youthful, skilful and committed players. I think we have a crop of players now that should be able to do us proud.

“And most of them, apart from the goalkeeper who is also brilliant and the only homed-based player, I gathered all the others are playing in professional teams outside the country.

“And from what I have seen so far, they can hold their own and it’s important, and I’m very impressed that they are all very youthful.

‘’Apart from the Captain who is still very good and has a lot of experience to back him up; it will be a delight to watch the team play an exciting World Cup in 2018.’’

The Super Eagles clinched the sole ticket for the 2018 Russia World Cup from CAF Group B after a 1-0 win over Chipolopolo of Zambia at Uyo. (NAN)



Source: https://www.vanguardngr.com/2017/10/super-eagles-will-make-us-proud-says-amiesimaka/

Arsenal Coach Wenger – I’m Sure Nigeria Will Have A Great Tournament At The World Cup




Alex Iwobi appears to have won Nigeria a fan in his club manager at Arsenal as Arsene Wenger is tipping Nigeria to do well at the World Cup in Russia next year.

Wenger made this known in a video on Facebook posted on the official page of Arsenal while congratulating Nigeria on their qualification for the World Cup, which was made possible by a goal from Iwobi.

” Good morning congratulations to all our fans in Nigeria – I know that you are very, very many of you and we are very proud that you have qualified for the World Cup. On top of that of course, our player scored the goal for you and that makes us even prouder”, he said.

” Well done and see at the World Cup and I’m sure you will have a great, great trip there “, he said in the 24 seconds video posted by Arsenal ahead of their weekend game against Watford at Vicarage Road.

Arsenal and Wenger has a long connection with Nigerian players starting from when the manager signed Kanu Nwankwo from Inter-Milan in 1998. Kelechi Nwakali was the last Nigerian player signed by the manager after his super showing for Nigeria at the 2015 U17 World Youth Championship.


**Ade Emmanuel

Here is the Video:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1gmTtLzqrKg


Source: http://owngoalnigeria.com/2017/10/12/arsenal-coach-wenger-im-sure-nigeria-will-have-a-great-tournament-at-the-world-cup/

TheSuperNerd:
Ike Uche Delighted With Brace In Gimnastic Win
By Johnny Edward




Former Super Eagles striker Ikechukwu Uche is pleased to have scored a brace for Gimnàstic Tarragona in Wednesday’s 2-0 home win over his former team Granada in the Spanish second division at the Nou Estadi de Tarragona Stadium, Completesportsnigeria.com reports.

Uche fired a brace in three minutes to hand Gimnàstic Tarragona their second win of the season in eight games. The goal was also his third this term.

The 33-year-old opened scoring in the 27th minute before adding another goal in the 31st minute of the encounter.

He took to his Instagram page to express his delight at the win.

“Glad with the three points gained, we will continue to work harder. Congratulations team, It was a good win which was important,” he wrote via his photo sharing wall on Instagram.

Uche was replaced in the 68th minute of the encounter by Juan Muniz in what was his eighth game of the season.

Gimnàstic Tarragona are 20th in the 22-team LaLiga 123 log with eight points from eight games.

The former Granada striker will lead the line for Gimnàstic Tarragona in their next game against Córdoba on Sunday.


Source: https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/ike-uche-delighted-brace-gimnastic-win/

Good for him, but why you come spoil my ticket nah lolz.

TheSuperNerd:
Yeah.... exactly... Just as we had in 2015, 2013 and then 2011 too.... in the pre-MRI era we still had players like KANU, Babayaro, Sammy Osei Kuffour (played U-20 too), and more who has long soccer careers meaning they were really young also at the age a grade comps like U-17 and U-20. So the MRI era is doing great things for cadet football worldwide and I pray it is sustained.

Nigeria have been one of the greatest Beneficiaries of this MRI Era even... and I hope we keep tapping into its positives for our football from the grassroots. I expect to see a better and stronger Nigeria U-17 side ahead of the start of the qualifiers for the 2019 CAF and FIFA tournaments especially with Finidi George likely to be officially confirmed as the new head coach of the team. I hope he builds on and goes even further than what the likes of Many Garba, Nduka Ugbade and Emmanuel Amuneke achieved at U-17 level for Nigeria... unearthing an enviable great number of super young talents many of which didn't even make the U-17 Worlds and some of which made the U-17 Worlds....

Preps for the U-17 CAF qualifiers should start by either late this year or early next year under Finidi's wings and I trust he will do a great job.

I admired your passion for Nigeria nd Africa's talents.

TheSuperNerd:
Fit Again Musa Yahaya Joins FC Porto First Team In Training Ahead Cup Game




Highly rated Nigerian forward Musa Yahaya was among the players of the B team of Portuguese giants FC Porto called up to the training of the first team ahead of this weekend Cup game against Lusitano FC.

Yahaya has grown into a very influential member of the B team, where he is distinguishing himself as a right wing-back as opposed to his well known position from the left or right of attack.

He got injured after 35 minutes in a second division game for the B team against CD Nacional which they won 2-1, although he played for 85 minutes in their next league game , a 2-1 win against Cova Piedade , he suffered a relapse and missed the 4-1 win against Academico Viseu.

Now back to full fitness, he is heavily tipped to play for the first team tomorrow when they take on Lusitano in a Portuguese Cup game as Porto are expected to rest some of their regulars.



**Daniel Martins


Source: http://owngoalnigeria.com/2017/10/12/fit-again-musa-yahaya-joins-fc-porto-first-team-in-training-ahead-cup-game/

This guy was one of the best players in manu Garba's u17 squad during d 2013 u17 WC along side Iheanacho, Success, Awoniyi etc. I still recalled Dat 360 abi na 180 degree turn self... what happened to him all dis while cos he's out of d limelight.

Ola Aina Is More Than Just A Back Up To Echiejile – Rohr Warns Other Players



Coach of the Super Eagles of Nigeria Gernot Rohr has revealed that recently capped Nigeria international defender Ola Aina is a threat to players in several positions.


On loan to Hull City from English Premier League champions Chelsea Aina made his debut for Nigeria as a left full back coming on for the injured Elderson Echiejile in the final minutes of their 1-0 win over Zambia.

His performance lead to talks of the 21 year old pushing first choice left full back of Nigeria Echiejile for a starting spot in the team, but according to Rohr he can play almost at same capacity in several roles.

” He (Aina) has the strength, pace and ability to play in more than one role. Aina is not in the team as cover for the left full back spot, he can play as a right back, wing-back on both flanks and also in central defence “, Rohr told Owngoalnigeria.com


” Aina was educated the Chelsea way, he was with the first team for the best part of last season, so he has the experience to do well for us. Presently he is doing very well at Hull City “, the coach concluded


**Osas Mahawi


Source: http://owngoalnigeria.com/2017/10/13/ola-aina-is-more-than-just-a-back-up-to-echiejile-rohr-warns-other-players/

Nigerian Players P-Index


Henry Onyekuru (RSC Anderlecht): This lad is back again with two goals as his side currently lead 4-2 away from home against KV Mechelen in the Belgian Jupiler League... game at 78 mins while reporting this.

Onuachu Fires Midtjylland To Top Of Danish Super League
By James Agberebi



Nigerian striker Paul Onuachu was the hero for his team Midtjylland as he scored the only goal in their 1-0 away win against Soenderjyske in the Danish top flight on Friday.
Onuachu struck in the 73rd minute to secure the win and took Midtjylland to five straight wins.

Also in action for Midtjylland was his teammate Rilwan Hassan who was on from the start before going off on 20 minutes with what looked like an injury.

Midtjylland now top the league table on 25 points, two above second-placed FC Nordsjaelland who will host bottom team Randers on Saturday.

Onuachu has now scored seven goals in eight league appearances this season.

Also, his goal against Soenderjyske was his third in his last four games for Midtjylland.


Source: https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/onuachu-fires-midtjylland-top-league/

Super Eagles Coach Gernot Rohr – Ezenwa Is Not A World Class Goalkeeper




Nigeria still don’t have a world class goalkeeper despite the fine performances of Ikechukwu Ezenwa who has kept in the Super Eagles last three crucial World Cup 2018 Qualifiers which culminated in their qualification for the World Cup in Russia.
Rohr made this known in two separate interviews monitored by Owngoalnigeria.com ,one in Abuja and the other in Lagos with popular radio station Lagos Talks FM.

FC Ifeanyi Ubah shot stopper Ezenwa kept two clean sheets in Super Eagles last three games namely the 4-0 win over Cameroon and the 1-0 win over Zambia , but he still needs a World Cup appearance according to Rohr.

“I don’t have a world class goalkeeper now but we’ll go with what we have. Ezenwa is progressing so much that in the past few weeks he is becoming a very good goalkeeper and that is why he kept in the games against Cameroon and Zambia. He is a goalkeeper much stronger than before, we shall have to see what will happen in the next few months.

“It is a very important position for any team. For the moment, we are very happy about the performance of Ezenwa. He has suddenly become an important member of the squad and we would keep working on him and see how how it goes,” said in Abuja shortly before departing to Lagos for the Aiteo Cup Final.

In Lagos earlier today the coach while speaking in a sport show on Radio said Ezenwa still has some way to go even though he rates him as a very good goalkeeper.

” Ezenwa is a very good goalkeeper but needs big stage experience like the World Cup”. He revealed .


**Shedrack Obi


Source: http://owngoalnigeria.com/2017/10/13/super-eagles-coach-gernot-rohr-ezenwa-is-not-a-world-class-goalkeeper/

Dutch-Nigerian Defender Ekong Boast – Super Eagles Are Better Than Holland



Super Eagles of Nigeria defender William Troost-Ekong says the Super Eagles of Nigeria stand a better chance of beating the country of his birth Netherlands if both teams come up against each other.

Ekong who was born in the Netherlands to Nigerian parents is a full blown international for Nigeria, and has formed a near perfect relationship with Leon Balogun in the heart of the central defence of the Super Eagles.

The Bursaspor defender who expressed his sadness over the inability of the Netherlands to qualify for the World Cup next year in Russia said the confidence mood in the Super Eagles will power them past the Netherlands if they square up against each other.

“It would be a nice match. We are Nigeria and our style is different from the Dutch team, beside we have lost only once in our last team games. I find it difficult to compare but I think we have a good chance to beat the Dutch team”, Ekong told Voetbalzone.nl.

” Of course I’m no longer keen on supporting Holland but there are boys with whom I played with or against and that makes me feel sorry for them not being able to make it to the World Cup in Russia.

” It would have been a great deal for me to play against the Netherlands. I cannot explain right now why things are so bad with Holland because I didn’t see all their matches. I only followed the results and I read about it”, he concluded.


**Michael James


Source: http://owngoalnigeria.com/2017/10/13/dutch-nigerian-defender-ekong-boast-super-eagles-are-better-than-holland/

JUNIOR AJAYI LEADS AL AHLY TO VICTORY
By Tolu Olasoji, Correspondent




The Nigerian striker was on hand to lead the Red Devils to their first win in the league this season


Junior Ajayi was on target as Al Ahly defeated Al Ittihad 2-0 in an Egyptian Premier League encounter at the Al Salam Stadium on Thursday evening.

The striker ensured Hossam El Badry went into the break with a lead after he converted from close range in the 43rd minute.
Hussein Sayed's strike in the 80th minute ensured the maximum points were safe for the reigning Egyptian topflight champions.


The win was their first this season after their season opener against El Geish ended in a draw.
Involvement in the Caf Champions League have seen them play just two games in the five-week old 2017/18 Egyptian elite division.

They sit 13th in the log with four points from two league games and are in action against El Raja on Monday in their next top division encounter.



Source: http://www.goal.com/en-ng/news/ajayi-leads-al-ahlys-to-first-league-win/g1djyc21votv1c6estmx1civd

New Wolfsburg Coach Tips Osimhen To Shine This Season – He Scores A Lot In Training



Newly appointed coach of German Bundesliga side Wolfsburg who gave Nigerian forward Victor Osimhen his first Bundesliga game this season has backed him to finish the season on a high.

Martin Schmidt replaced Andries Jonker who was fired after a poor start to the season by Wolfsburg, and played the Nigerian for six minutes in their 1-1 draw against Mainz 05.

Speaking to Wolfsburger Allgemeine, the coach praised the Nigerian for hid efforts in training which according to him earned him the chance to play against Mainz 05.

” It was a decison for Victor. He trained very well and scored the most goals. He is the most effective runner and I wanted to reward him”, the coach said.


Osimhen consolidated his chances of playing again this weekend when they take on Bayern Leverkusen by scoring in the pre season game they played as part of keeping players who didn’t travel for international games in shape.



**Shedrack Obi


Source: http://owngoalnigeria.com/2017/10/13/new-wolfsburg-coach-tips-osimhen-to-shine-this-season-he-scores-a-lot-in-training/

Ebuehi Rules Out Playing For Holland: Troost-Ekong Great Example For Me



Tyronne Ebuehi has ruled out playing for the Netherlands, saying that Nigeria first gave him the opportunity to represent an international team.

As long as he has not been cap-tied by the Nigeria Football Federation, the door is still open for the right back to turn out for the Dutch National teams but the Haarlem-born starlet is hoping to follow in the footsteps of William Troost-Ekong.

''But I will not do that anymore (play for the Netherlands, ed) . If you play for ADO Den Haag in all respects, there is a chance that you will be at the Dutch team,'' Ebuehi said to northside.nl.

''The competition here is great. Of course, you never know what the future looks like, but I got this chance from Nigeria and thought I had to get it.''

He added : ''William is in the first team. I still know him from his time at Dordrecht. He has developed tremendously and is a great example for me.''

Ebuehi's only appearance for the Super Eagles to date was against Togo in an international friendly in June.


**Igho Kingsley


Source: http://www.allnigeriasoccer.com/read_news.php?nid=25005

Nigerian Players P-Index

Henry Onyekuru (RSC Anderlecht): He played 90mins and was replaced in added time as His side held on to win 4-3 against KV Mechelen.

Henry got two goals to take his tally to Six goals in 9 league games and Seven goals in all comps so far.

He now boasts a goal every 106 mins in the league alone.

We Shared Our Win Bonus Against Zambia With Ikeme – Eagles Coach Rohr Reveals




Players and officials of the senior national team of Nigeria gave a share of the bonus they got for beating Zambia 1-0 to goalkeeper Carl Ikeme who is presently down with acute Leukaemia.

This much was made known by coach of the team Gernot Rohr during an interview in Lagos monitored by Owngoalnigeria.com , when he was asked about the sick goalkeeper.

Ikeme according to Rohr put Nigeria on a sound footing to qualify for the World Cup with his heroics in their first game away to Zambia in Ndola which they won 1-0.

Rohr said he also has plan to visit the shot stopper to thank him for helping the team, particularly in their first game, where according to the manager the big saves he made on the day saved Nigeria from defeat.

” At first don’t forget him, you win you have a bonus everybody gave his part to Carl he was very happy , the next idea I have is to go and see him to say thanks for what you did in the first game against Zambia.

“We can’t forget he brought us on the right way and we are sure he will come out of this great fight he has to fight and come with us to the World Cup “.


**Osas Mahawi


Source: http://owngoalnigeria.com/2017/10/13/we-shared-our-win-bonus-against-zambia-with-ikeme-eagles-coach-rohr-reveals/

Rohr Provides Update On Vincent Enyeama Return To The Super Eagles Squad



An update on the possible return of former Super Eagles first choice goalkeeper and captain Vincent Enyeama has been provided by coach of the team Gernot Rohr .

Enyeama has been on exile from the team after a row with former coach Sunday Oliseh which lead to him losing the captain arm band and also announcing his retirement from the team to focus on his club career with French club Lille.

Rohr all but confirmed the return of the 35 year old goalkeeper who is presently working his way back to full fitness after an injury and also added that the motivation of making history by going to the World Cup for the fourth time should spur Enyeama to pick up the challenge.

“He has just been operated on his meniscus, he is presently doing a lot of works in terms of fitness. He has already played in three World Cup, he could be a record man as a goalkeeper to play in four World Cup.

” It could be a challenge for him, I think he is working on that but actually what is the situation we are unlucky in this position, because he was injured already for a long time”, he said in a radio interview with Lagos Talks Fm.


**Osas Mahawi

Source: http://owngoalnigeria.com/2017/10/13/rohr-provides-update-on-vincent-enyeama-return-to-the-super-eagles-squad/

NDIDI EYES WINNING RUN FOR LEICESTER CITY
By Tolu Olasoji, Correspondent




The Foxes next four games see them appear thrice in front of their fans and the Nigeria international is eyeing a clean sweep of them all

Wilfred Ndidi is confident of Leicester City’s ability to go on a winning spree in their next few home fixtures.

Starting from Monday’s English Premier League encounter against West Brom, the Foxes’ next four matches - in all competitions - see them welcome three of their oppositions to the King Power Stadium.

And the midfielder wants his side - placed 17th after garnering five points in seven league games - to bank on the home support to gather momentum against Tony Pulis’ men, Leeds United [League Cup] and Everton.

“I feel this is the time to take our opportunity, with the fans around – the atmosphere will be brilliant,” Ndidi told LCFC TV .
"It’s an opportunity for us to get as many points as we can and we’ll see where we can be in the table.
“The game against West Brom, I’m looking forward to it.
“It will be a good game because we really need the three points, not just a point. We need to do everything we need to do to get the points.

“Every team wants to win. We will take everything as it comes. Not just their name and where they are in the league. The main thing is about us – we will just focus on ourselves.

The former Genk player has featured in all nine games for Craig Shakespeare’s side this season. And he expressed gratitude with the opportunities afforded to him.

“I feel sharp and I feel relaxed and I’m okay. I’m good to do. I just try to do my thing – this is what I have to do and I just want to do it.

“So many people want this opportunity and they don’t get it. For me, I see this as an opportunity to play and I just want to play," he concluded.


Source: http://www.goal.com/en-ng/news/ndidi-eyes-winning-run-for-leicester-city/13p0d4d8xl2ik1l1j10akdszuw

Everton Loanee Onyekuru Welcomes New Coach Of Anderlecht With Brace Against Mechelen




On loan Everton forward Henry Onyekuru continued his rich vein of form for his loan side Anderlecht by scoring twice in their 4-2 win over KV Mechelen.
The game was the first for coach Hein Vanhaezebrouck who was appointed by the team to help rescue a poor start to the season for the team who are representing Belgium in the UEFA Champions League.
Onyekuru wasted no time in introducing himself to the manager by scoring twice within a space of seven minutes in the 30th and 37th minute precisely to put his side 3-1 up before the half time break.
He now has six goals in ten games for Anderlecht, a form that has already lead to talks about a possible return to Everton in January, as they are struggling to score goals.
Last season he scored 24 goals in all competitions for modest side Eupen, and he is in line to better the tally if he maintains his current rich vein in front of goal till the end of the season.



**Daniel Martins

Source: http://owngoalnigeria.com/2017/10/13/everton-loanee-onyekuru-welcomes-new-coach-of-anderlecht-with-brace-against-mechelen/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=htPnvJmi0XI