Pot Four Awaits Super Eagles as FIFA Ranks Nigeria 41st
By Femi Solaja

during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Qualifier match between Nigeria vs Zambia on October 7th 2017 at Godswill Akpabio Stadium ©Kabiru Abubakar/fotodezamora

As expected, Super Eagles will not have an easy draw when the FIFA 2018 Draw ceremony holds on December 1 at State Kremlin Palace in Moscow Russia. Eagles moved up three places to 41st spot in the October FIFA rankings released yesterday. Nigeria is fifth in Africa.

Nigeria will be grouped alongside other ‘minnow’ representatives from Africa and Asia in the last pot at the draw ceremony based on their FIFA ranking released yesterday. The standings are the major determinant of the group all the participating teams will fall into.

Unlike in the previous tournaments when teams were grouped according to their co-efficient from last four appearances at the Mundial, this time around, ranking of participating teams is the lone parameter.

This development means no nation from the Africa, Asia and CONCACAF regions can be top seeded. While elite nations like defending champion, Germany and Brazil are already guaranteed to be seeded top (Pot one) as they have qualified for the finals while Portugal, Argentina, Belgium, Poland and France complete the top pot seeding based on their respective rating in the first seven nations on the list.

Host Russia, ranked 65th yesterday by FIFA will be moved forward to be among the top eight seeds at the World Cup draw while Nigeria now number 18 in ranking among the 23 already qualified teams could further drop in ranking when all the 32 teams emerge.

The situation will definitely change when some of the expected nine qualifiers are added next month. Of the nine expected World Cup teams, four are expected from Europe as eight will be drawn into straight knockout fixture tomorrow.

Among the eight European teams struggling for qualification, Nigeria is only ahead of Greece in the FIFA ranking released yesterday morning.

But after the Europe play-off, Nigeria will be pushed three or four steps down the ranking ladder by the time the four new European qualifiers emerge.

The other seven European aspirants that are ahead in ranking to Nigeria are Switzerland (11), Italy (15), Croatia (18), Denmark (19) Northern Ireland (23), Sweden (25) and Ireland (26).


From the current 18th position among the 23 countries already qualified for the World Cup Nigeria will certainly go to 23rd or 24th spot when four more qualifiers emerge from Europe.

Further threat to Nigeria’s position will also come from Africa where either Tunisia (to be ranked 28th by FIFA) or Congo DR (to be FIFA ranked as 35th) will emerge from Group A of the African qualifying round of matches.

Senegal that is set to pick the Group D ticket from Africa will also be ranked 32nd thus also further pushing Nigeria down in World Cup draw ranking.

Qualification of either Morocco or Cote d’Ivoire will have no significant effect on Nigeria’s position in the overall standing of qualified teams.

As it is, based on the 23 qualifiers so far, Nigeria will temporarily be in Pot 3, but Pot 4 is the ultimate destination after all the qualifiers have emerged.

Like in the past, teams in the same pot will not meet in the group stage of the World Cup.

Based on this new FIFA ranking formula, the Pot 2 will potentially have England, Colombia, Mexico, Uruguay, Iceland, Costa Rica and Egypt.

Changes are expected in this pot as Switzerland, Italy, Denmark, Croatia, Northern Ireland, Sweden and Ireland are potential entrants who are currently involved in European play offs.

They will know their opponents today when a play off draw will be made at the FIFA headquarters.

Most likely to be in the Pot 4 when all the 32 teams must have emerged next month are: Nigeria, Iran, Serbia, Japan, Panama, and Saudi Arabia.
Significantly, of the 23 teams already assured of a place in the 2018 World Cup, the host country, Russia is the least ranked.



OCTOBER RANKINGS OF THE 23 TEAMS THAT HAVE QUALIFIED FOR RUSSIA 2018 SO FAR:

1st Germany

2nd Brazil

3rd Portugal

4th Argentina

5th Belgium

6th Poland

7th France

8th Spain

12th England

13th Colombia

16th Mexico

17th Uruguay

21st Iceland

22nd Costa Rica

30th Egypt

34th Iran

40th Serbia

41st Nigeria

44th Japan

49th Panama

60th S’Korea

63rd S’Arabia

65th Russia


Source: http://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2017/10/17/pot-four-awaits-super-eagles-as-fifa-ranks-nigeria-41st/

International Friendly – Super Eagles Hit Spain From Algeria After World Cup Qualifiers




Preparations are ongoing for the senior national team of Nigeria to play a friendly game in Spain after their dead rubber World Cup 2018 Qualifiers tie against Algeria in Algiers.

Nigeria are already through to the World Cup which will be holding in Russia next year, with a game to spare hence the need for the team to start lining up friendly games in readiness for the World Cup.

The Eagles were earlier bid to play a friendly game in Morocco, but it is now looking likely that the venue for their planned Friendly game next month will be in Spain and not Morocco.

” Morocco was initially suggested as venue for the friendly but it may now likely hold in Spain”, Onyewuchi Nwachukwu wrote in his report for the print version of Sporting Life newspaper.

However the team they will be playing against is yet to be confirmed as most teams are demanding Nigeria field the full compliment of their squad for the game, as they have been told about plans by Nigeria to field a second strength team against Algeria, which will be played before the planned Friendly.



**Osas Mahawi

Source: http://owngoalnigeria.com/2017/10/17/international-friendly-super-eagles-hit-spain-from-algeria-after-world-cup-qualifiers/

TheSuperNerd:
International Friendly – Super Eagles Hit Spain From Algeria After World Cup Qualifiers




Preparations are ongoing for the senior national team of Nigeria to play a friendly game in Spain after their dead rubber World Cup 2018 Qualifiers tie against Algeria in Algiers.

Nigeria are already through to the World Cup which will be holding in Russia next year, with a game to spare hence the need for the team to start lining up friendly games in readiness for the World Cup.

The Eagles were earlier bid to play a friendly game in Morocco, but it is now looking likely that the venue for their planned Friendly game next month will be in Spain and not Morocco.

” Morocco was initially suggested as venue for the friendly but it may now likely hold in Spain”, Onyewuchi Nwachukwu wrote in his report for the print version of Sporting Life newspaper.

However the team they will be playing against is yet to be confirmed as most teams are demanding Nigeria field the full compliment of their squad for the game, as they have been told about plans by Nigeria to field a second strength team against Algeria, which will be played before the planned Friendly.



**Osas Mahawi

Source: http://owngoalnigeria.com/2017/10/17/international-friendly-super-eagles-hit-spain-from-algeria-after-world-cup-qualifiers/

Its a smart one considering FIFA rule about distance for friendlies.

Fast Rising Nigerian Right Back Nura Abdullahi Trains With Roma Ahead Chelsea Tie



Roma concluded their preparations for tomorrow’s UEFA Champions League clash against Chelsea with highly rated Nigerian right back Nura Abdullahi taking part in their tactical sessions.


Nura is yet to make his first team bow for the club, but the 20 year old had his contract at the club extended till 2022 after a string of impressive performances for the B team following his return from a long injury lay off.

Last weekend he was in the squad for the Napoli game in the Serie A but didn’t get to play in the game, and although he took part in the tactical drills ahead of tomorrow’s game his inclusion in the squad looks unlikely.

Known for his pace, power and ball playing abilities, the defender who is also comfortable as a winger joined the club from Serie B side Spezia, alongside his childhood friend Sadiq Umar, who is presently on loan to Torino.
While Sadiq has progressed smoothly to the first team with games and goals under his belt, Nura has had his progress stunted by injuries and a mild heart defect which required corrective surgery one year ago.



**Daniel Martins

Source: http://owngoalnigeria.com/2017/10/17/fast-rising-nigerian-right-back-nura-abdullahi-trains-with-roma-ahead-chelsea-tie/

Early Team News Chelsea vs Roma: No Nigerian Involvement As Nura Misses Trip To SW6



It was already confirmed that Nigeria international Victor Moses won't be in action at Stamford Bridge for Chelsea's UEFA Champions League meeting with Roma on Wednesday night.

The likes of Tammy Abraham, Ola Aina and Ike Ugbo have been loaned out by the Premier League champions to Swansea City, Hull City and Barnsley respectively and, therefore, are not in the reckoning to feature against the Serie A club.

Jordan Aina, Faustino Anjorin and Tariq Uwakwe have not been considered part of Chelsea's first team by manager Antonio Conte and will, instead focus their attention on the UEFA Youth League match against Roma tomorrow afternoon at Cobham Training Centre.

Roma have confirmed via their official webpage that Nigerian right back Nura Abdullahi is not in their 19-man traveling party to the English capital, meaning he has to wait until match day four before a potential debut in the Champions League.

Abdullahi has yet to make his competitive debut for the Giallorossi and was an unused substitute in their loss to Napoili last weekend.


AS Roma Squad For Trip To Chelsea
Alisson Becker
Lukasz Skorupski
Juan Jesus
Aleksandar Kolarov
Hector Moreno
Federico Fazio
Bruno Peres
Rick Karsdorp
Radja Nainggolan
Kevin Strootman
Lorenzo Pellegrini
Daniele De Rossi
Maxime Gonalons
Alessandro Florenzi
Gerson
Diego Perotti
Edin Dzeko
Cengiz Under
Stephan El Shaarawy



**Ifeanyi Emmanuel
Photo Credit : chelseafc.com

Source: http://www.allnigeriasoccer.com/read_news.php?nid=25053

Exclusive: Tottenham's Nigerian Midfielder Won't Play Against Real Madrid



Allnigeriasoccer.com understands that the young Nigerian midfielder Moroyin Omolabi won't make his UEFA Youth League debut when Tottenham Hotspur tackle Real Madrid at the Estadio Alfredo Di Stéfano on Tuesday, October 17.

Moroyin Omolabi was sighted in London on Monday evening, fueling speculation that he has not traveled with Spurs U19 squad to the Spanish capital for their game against Real Madrid.

The teenager will be hoping to make his maiden appearance in the competition when Real Madrid visit London in the next two weeks, after he was named to the bench against Borussia Dortmund and APOEL in September.

His chances of featuring against Real Madrid today had been slim though as he went the distance for the U18s in their 3-1 win over West Ham on Saturday, in which he scored his first goal at that age level in the 72nd minute.

Moroyin’s father was also a fantastic footballer, he captained the University of Agriculture in Makurdi as an undergraduate before leaving for Europe where he had a stint in football before veering to academics.

Another talented player of Nigerian descent certain to miss the match against Real Madrid is Timothy Eyoma, who is in India with England U17s.


**Ifeanyi Emmanuel

Source: http://www.allnigeriasoccer.com/read_news.php?nid=25052

Happy Birthday Kenneth Omeruo, Afcon 2013 Hero and WC 2014 Veteran


FIFA, CAF, NFF Celebrate Omeruo On 24th Birthday
By Hanifat Mustapha




FIFA, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) have celebrated Super Eagles and Kasimpasa defender Kenneth Omeruo who became 24 years old on Tuesday.

“#HBD to @omeruo22 (24), Saki Kumagai (27), @graemelesaux14 (49), Sergio Goycochea (54),” world football governing body FIFA tweeted to celebrate Omeruo and birthday mates, former Chelsea defender Graeme Le Saux and former Argentina goalkeeper Sergio Goycochea.

He was in the Super Eagles squad that won the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations in South Africa and also featured in the Nigeria squad at the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup in Brazil and the 2014 World Cup.

Kenneth, who just proposed to his long time girlfriend Chioma is on loan from Chelsea to Kasimpasa.

“Happy birthday to Nigerian International Kenneth Omeruo #African_Players.” CAF tweeted.

Omeruo, who was in the Golden Eaglets squad that won silver at the FIFA U-17 World Cup in Nigeria, has found himself out of recent Super Eagles squads but the NFF still remembered the defender on his birthday.

The NFF tweeted: “Happy birthday @NGSuperEagles defender Kenneth @Omeruo22.”

Source: https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/fifa-caf-nff-celebrate-omeruo-birthday/

Troost-Ekong Hails Bursaspor’s ‘Great Fight’ After Victory
By Johnny Edward




Super Eagles defender William Troost-Ekong has praised his side Bursaspor’s fightback in their 3-1 win over Osmanlispor in the Turkish Super Lig on Monday night.

Osmanlispor paraded two Nigerian internationals Raheem Lawal and Aminu Umar, while Super Eagles midfielder Mikel Agu was on the scoresheet for Bursaspor, Completesportsnigeria.com reports.

Troost-Ekong who made his seventh league appearance of the season also thanked the club fans for their support.

“Good to get a win again at home tonight. Great fight from the boys and great support as always,” Troost-Ekong tweeted after the game.

Agu gave Bursaspor the lead after Bogdan Stancu had cancelled out Souleyman Doukara’s opener in the 23rd minute.
Aziz Behich sealed the win for Bursaspor in the 75th minute of the encounter.

Bursaspor are now up to eighth position in the Turkish table with 12 points after eight league games.

Source: https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/troost-ekong-hails-bursaspors-agu/

NFF set for stormy exco meeting over appointments of national coaches
By ScoreNigeria admin


SCORENigeria understands that tomorrow’s executive committee meeting of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) in Jos is expected to be a stormy one as the country’s top football egg heads will decide on the coaches of the various national teams.

“There are so many vested interests around the appointment of the national team coaches and as such there will be heated debates at the exco on this,” an official informed SCORENigeria.

Several members of the technical committee as well as the executive committee have personal interests in these appointments, while some coaches have lobbied for the jobs using former sports ministers and top government officials.

After grilling applicants for the national team posts in Abuja, the NFF technical committee has forwarded its recommendations to the NFF board with a caveat that these recommendations were painstakingly arrived at and should therefore be respected.


However, SCORENigeria has since learnt that the executive committee ordered the technical committee to broaden their recommendations to allow for a more level playing field.

But this was not done with speculations now that two top ranking officials of the committee have now met to revise these recommendations, some of which were leaked to the media recently.

The vacant national team positions include the head and assistant coaches of the U17 teams both male and female, the U20 Flying Eagles, the men’s Olympic team as well the women’s team, the Super Falcons.

Source: http://googleweblight.com/i?u=http://scorenigeria.com.ng/2017/10/17/nff-set-for-stormy-exco-meeting-over-appointments-of-national-coaches/&hl=en-NG

Everton pleased with my performance at Anderlecht reveals Onyekuru
By ScoreNigeria admin


Henry Onyekuru has revealed that his Premier League club Everton are pleased with how well he has fared so far on loan at Belgian champions Anderlecht.

The Nigeria international forward has scored six goals in the league for Anderlecht and has also made his UEFA Champions League debut with them.

“Everton are satisfied with how I have performed at the beginning of the season with Anderlecht,” Onyekuru told the newspaper Le Derniere Heure.

The forward also restated what SCORENigeria first reported that he will be recalled by Everton in January.

“I hope I can play for Everton from January,” he further told the newspaper.

“I actually had a meeting there, I am waiting for something…

“But it is not yet January, so my focus is entirely on Anderlecht.”

However, experts have said he will need to be granted a work permit to feature in the Premier League in January and that would be difficult as he has not played enough international games for Nigeria to be entitled for that.


Source: http://googleweblight.com/i?u=http://scorenigeria.com.ng/2017/10/17/everton-pleased-with-my-performance-at-anderlecht-reveals-onyekuru/&hl=en-NG

Rohr Post Scout To Monitor Deportivo La Coruna Nigerian Goalkeeper Uzoho This Weekend



Deportivo La Coruna of Spain goalkeeper Francis Odinaka Uzoho will be watched at close quarters in the 9th round of games in the La-Liga by a scout of the national team of Nigeria.

Coach of the Super Eagles of Nigeria Gernot Rohr is looking for options in the goalkeeping department of his team, and views the soon to be 19 year old as an option after his La-Liga debut last weekend against Eibar.

Although the coach is aware of his progress at Deportivo La Coruna, the need to watch him at close quarters has now become imperative after his debut last weekend.

Rohr will send one of the European scouts working with him to run the rule on the goalkeeper who is expected to keep his first team spot when they take on Girona in the league on Monday.

The game will also help the technical crew monitor the progress of one of the strikers of the Nigeria team in the same game in Olarewaju Kayode who is on loan to Girona from Manchester City.



**Shedrack Obi

Source: http://owngoalnigeria.com/2017/10/17/rohr-post-scout-to-monitor-deportivo-la-coruna-nigerian-goalkeeper-uzoho-this-weekend/

SWANSEA, NOT CHELSEA IS THE BEST PLACE FOR TAMMY ABRAHAM - JAMIE REDKNAPP
By Sam Francisco, Correspondent



The 20-year-old has had an impressive start to life at the Swans and the former England international believes he will develop faster there


Jamie Redknapp believes Swansea is the best place for Tammy Abraham to continue his development amid talks of a recall to Chelsea.


The Anglo-Nigerian, on-loan from the Blues, has scored five goals in ten appearances so far this season for Paul Clement’s side.


And his eye-catching performances - coupled with Antonio Conte's struggles to finding a suitable backup for first-choice striker, Alvaro Morata - have sparked talks of an early recall from his temporary runout at the Liberty Stadium outfit.

But the ex-Liverpool midfielder believes the youngster's stay in South Wales, rather than an early return to Stamford Bridge, would yield more dividend.

“If you put Tammy Abraham into Chelsea's team now in place of Michy Batshuayi, I don't think he would do any worse but Swansea is the best place for him right now,” Redknapp told Daily Mail.

“He is guaranteed football week in, week out and is learning about the rigors and demands of the Premier League.

“Abraham's development will benefit greatly from this year at Swansea and will return to Stamford Bridge a better player.”

Abraham, who is responsible for four of Swansea's five goals in the English topflight so far this season, will be looking to continue his impressive run in front of goal when Swansea City welcomes Wilfred Ndidi and Kelechi Iheanacho’s Leicester City to the Liberty Stadium in their next game on October 21.

Source: http://www.goal.com/en-ng/news/swansea-the-best-place-for-tammy-abraham-right-now-says/bqyr8csstgn317lqg3whtv5ty

BOLTON'S AMEOBI EYES QUEENS PARK RANGER SCALP
By Sam Francisco, Correspondent



The 25-year-old scored on his return for the Wanderers over the weekend and has set his sights on getting another win against the Hoops

Bolton winger Sammy Ameobi has set his sights on claiming all three points when his side welcome Queens Park Rangers to the Macron Stadium on October 21.
The Anglo-Nigerian winger had been sidelined since July with a knee injury but returned to help Phil Parkinson’s side pick up their first win of the season in the English Championship against Sheffield Wednesday over the weekend.
And the former Newcastle man is eyeing another win over Ian Holloway’s side to help move the Whites off the foot of the English second division log.

“It has gradually been building,” Ameobi told the Bolton News .

“But to actually get that result was massive. So now we have to put another win alongside it on Saturday.

“That’s the aim - we want another three points and to get out of the relegation zone down the line. I think we have the squad and the quality to do so.
“It’s a case of preparing properly this week and work as hard as we can for QPR," he concluded.

Source: http://www.goal.com/en-ng/news/sammy-ameobi-eyeing-queens-park-ranger-scalp/17uadlobv6z251mj37mn6zpdeg

Leon Balogun In Tears, Reminds Me Of The Pride In Playing For Nigeria – Taribo West



Former Super Eagles defender Taribo West says seeing Leon
Balogun in tears after Nigeria qualified for the World Cup with a 1-0 win over Zambia reminds him of the pride in representing Nigeria.

Balogun broke into tears after the final whistle of the game which sealed Nigeria’s progress to the World Cup, and according to West it’s a sign of how committed he is to the Nigerian course and not weakness as perceived by many.

West who represented Nigeria from 1996 to 2003 said it’s also shows how much pride the Mainz 05 defender has while defending the national team colours.

“Look it’s not a sign of weakness, but rather a feeling of pride. Tears of pride, I usually feel same when I wear the green, white , green colours of Nigeria. The national team means a lot, I think Balogun knows that”, West told Owngoalnigeria.com.

” It’s nice to see a player who still feel that way about the colours of Nigeria, that alone means a lot to some of us who have represented Nigeria in the past”, he remarked.



**Osas Mahawi


Source: http://owngoalnigeria.com/2017/10/17/leon-balogun-in-tears-reminds-me-of-the-pride-in-playing-for-nigeria-taribo-west/

Best Display In A Liverpool Shirt : Adekanye Contributes To Four Goals Vs Maribor




Ibadan-born winger Bobby Adekanye, dubbed the Nigerian Messi in these parts, put in undoubtedly his best performance in a Liverpool shirt to date as their U19 team beat Maribor in the UEFA Youth League on Tuesday afternoon.

The opponents were soundly beaten 4-1 at športni park Lendava with Adekanye grabbing a pair of goals and assists either side of the interval.

The Slovenians opened the scoring on 23 minutes through Matko, only for the Nigerian winger to net his maiden goal in the Youth League and equalize for the visitors on the half-hour mark.

In the 32nd minute, Adekanye was unfortunate to hit the woodwork but Herbie Kane was on hand to tap home the rebound.

Six minutes into the second half, Liam Millar made it 3-1 after he was assisted by the former Ajax, PSV and Barcelona wonderkid.

It was one-way traffic with Liverpool in the driving seat and Adekanye added more gloss to the scoreline with his second goal of the afternoon in the 58th minute when he slammed home a low finish, with Rafael Camacho providing the assist.

The 18-year-old Nigerian was replaced with seven minutes left on the clock.


**Igho Kingsley.

Source: http://www.allnigeriasoccer.com/read_news.php?nid=25054

Chelsea Inserted A Break Clause In Tammy Abraham's Swansea City Deal



Chelsea inserted a break clause into Tammy Abraham's deal with Premier League rivals Swansea City, according to reports.
According to Evening Standard , manager Antonio Conte will not be able to recall Tammy Abraham from his season-long loan at Swansea early in January due to the terms of the deal they agreed.

The Blues only negotiated a break clause with the Welsh outfit, stipulating that the Nigerian striker must make a minimum number of appearances or he'll return to Stamford Bridge when the transfer window reopens in less than three months time.

In the event that Chelsea insist on recalling Abraham, then the Swans have the right to ask for a financial compensation.

After eight rounds in the Premier League, the 20-year-old has scored four of Swansea City's five goals, including a brace in last weekend's win against Huddersfield Town.

Abraham penned a new five-year deal with the Blues before he was loaned out to Swansea.

**Igho Kingsley
Photo Credit : swanseacity.com

Source: http://www.allnigeriasoccer.com/read_news.php?nid=25055

Enyeama Close To Return After Long Injury Lay-Off
By Nurudeen Obalola




Nigeria goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama has given a big hint that he is close to full fitness after a long, injury-enforced lay-off, Completesportsnigeria.com reports.


The 35-year-old Enyeama has not been in action since getting injured while playing for Lille in April, and he has been undergoing intense rehabilitation.

The former Enyimba goalkeeper underwent surgery on his knee in May and it has been a long, hard road back to fitness.
However, a post on social media on Tuesday suggests that the injury nightmare could soon be over.

“And after 6months.1st group training. thanks be to God.and everyone who worked tirelessly for me to get here,” Enyeama, Nigeria’s most capped player with 101 international appearances, tweeted.

He also posted a 52-second video of himself at training, facing shots and doing short runs on the pitch.

Enyeama has achieved legendary status in Nigeria not just for his record number of caps, but also for his ability as a goalkeeper.

He is indeed regarded as one of the country’s best ever goalkeeper and he was the leader on the pitch as the Super Eagles won their first Africa Cup of Nations title in 19 years in 2013.

Enyeama also represented Nigeria at three World Cups, his first in 2002 in Korea/Japan, South Africa in 2010 and Brazil in 2014.

Enyeama retired from the national team in 2015 after falling out with then Super Eagles head coach Sunday Oliseh but there is a possibility of his return as current Nigeria coach Gernot Rohr is a huge admirer.

On the club front, Enyeama might have to look for a new club as Lille manager Marcelo Bielsa surprisingly made it clear upon his arrival in the summer that the Nigerian and several other players were not in his plans.

. Source: https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/enyeama-close-return-long-injury-lay-off/

German Clubs, Inter Milan & Juventus Monitoring Tottenham Talent Eyoma



Allnigeriasoccer.com understands that Tottenham Hotspur defender Timothy Eyoma is attracting interest from foreign clubs after catching the eye at the 2017 Fifa U17 World Cup.

As the Under 17 World Cup heads into the business end of the competition, some German clubs, Inter Milan and Juventus have been on the trail of the England number two in India.

It is known that Borussia Dortmund have posted scouts to monitor the outstanding talents at the Fifa U17 World Cup.

Dortmund are hoping to make Sancho the norm, not the
exception with regards to grabbing the best British talents who have no chance of first team football in their country but feel they are good enough, and could make a move for Eyoma.

Born 29 January, 2000, Timothy Eyoma has appeared two times for Steve Cooper's side in India, but has not been named in the starting eleven for Tuesday afternoon's second round tie with Japan.

This season, the defender has eight games under his belt for Tottenham Hotspur's youth teams in all competitions.
Timothy's brother Aaron Eyoma turns out for London rivals Arsenal.

**Ifeanyi Emmanuel
Photo Credit : fifa.com


Source: http://www.allnigeriasoccer.com/read_news.php?nid=25057

Breaking News


Leicester Coach Craig Shakespeare has been fired by the board at the King power stadium.

Good news for Leicester's season? Great news for Iheanacho and Ndidi and maybe Musa?

Shakes' style have been very very limiting and not allowing Leicester utilise the talents of Nacho and even Ndidi well enough... good riddance I think.

But question is... who then is coming in coz we got three of our Super Eagles players there? I pray he is a class far better than Shakes... time will tell.

International Friendly: NFF Confirm Approach From England – Reports



England have reportedly contacted Nigeria over a friendly game with the Super Eagles of Nigeria to help both teams prepare for the World Cup in Russia next year.

Just like Nigeria, the Three Lions of England are through to next year World Cup, hence the need to play preparatory games has become imperative before the start of the tournament next year in June.

According to a report on Nigerian online portal , the English FA contacted their Nigerian counterparts shortly after the Super Eagles sealed progress to the World Cup with a 1-0 win over Zambia.

The game has been slated for next year but it will only hold if both teams are not in the same group when the draws for the World Cup is made in December.

” We have received a mail from the FA asking for the friendly with the Eagles but it will only be confirmed after the draws, if we are in the same group we cannot play against each other”, an unnamed source at the NFF was quoted as saying by .


Nigeria have only faced England twice with the first game taking place in 1995, when England ran out 1-0 winners at the old Wembley stadium in a friendly game, their path crossed again at the World Cup in Japan/South Korea and it ended 0-0.


**Osas Mahawi.

Source: http://owngoalnigeria.com/2017/10/17/international-friendly-nff-confirm-approach-from-england-reports/

LIVERPOOL STRIKER BOBBY ADEKANYE UNSURE OVER NIGERIA FUTURE

Liverpool's Bobby Adekanye

by Graeme Jackson


Liverpool striker Bobby Adekanye has admitted that he is unsure yet whether he will choose to represent Nigeria at the international level.

The 18-year-old was born in Nigeria but has represented the Netherlands at junior level, making him eligible for both countries.

He told Voetbal Zone: "No, I have not made a choice yet. I'm not busy with that either. That will happen in the future."

Adekanye signed for Liverpool in 2015 after Barcelona had to release him due to their transfer ban.

He added: "Hopefully, my dream comes true and that's playing in Liverpool's first [team].

“Yes, Barcelona is my ultimate dream, that's right, and hopefully I will play again in the future. But my dream for now is to get to Liverpool firsts."

Adekanye has also been on the books of Ajax Amsterdam and PSV Eindhoven in his youth career.

Source: http://africanfootball.com//news/731984/Liverpool-striker-Bobby-Adekanye-unsure-over-Nigeria-future

NFF holds annual general assembly in Jos



The 2017 Annual General Assembly of the Nigeria Football Federation will take place at the Crest Hotel, Jos, capital of Plateau State on Thursday.

NFF General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, confirmed to thenff.com on Tuesday that all arrangements have been concluded for a hitch –free and memorable day for all members of the NFF Congress, invited dignitaries and other stakeholders.

The General Assembly of Nigerian Football brings together the kernel of Nigeria’s football family, including Chairmen and Secretaries of the Football Associations of all 36 States and the Federal Capital Territory, Chairmen and Secretaries of the various Leagues, Referees Association, Coaches Association and the Players’ Union, the members of the NFF Executive Committee and Management, and stakeholders of the game invited for the purpose.

Items on the agenda for Thursday’s session include presentation of the Consolidated and Revised Balance Sheet and Profit-and-Loss Statement, presentation of the Financial Statement for approval, presentation of the 2018 Budget for approval, votes on proposals for amendments to the Statutes, the regulations governing the application of the Statutes and the standing orders of the General Assembly, as well as discussion of any further items proposed by the Members or by the Executive Committee.

The Executive Governor of Plateau State, Barr. Simon Bako Lalong will declare the General Assembly open, and Youth and Sports Minister Solomon Dalung has also been invited to the opening ceremony.

During the business of the assembly proper, NFF President Amaju Pinnick will present his address, encapsulating activities within the football sector since the last assembly and the Federation’s plans for the year 2018, while General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi will also present the activity report.


Source: http://www.thenff.com/2017/10/nff-holds-annual-general-assembly-in-jos/

Russia 2018 World Cup Play-offs: Italy to face Sweden, Denmark to face Ireland [See full list]
The draw for Russia 2018 World Cup was held at FIFA’s headquarters in Zurich, Switzerland on Tuesday.

Four times world champions Italy will take on Sweden in the European play-offs for a place at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.

Italy will travel to Stockholm for the first leg of the play-off.
See full list here http://www.naijatrending.com.ng/sports/russia-2018-world-cup-play-offs-italy-to-face-sweden-denmark-to-face-ireland/

I always knew Nacho was a club project. The club wanted him but the coach was damn clueless about getting the best out of him with his archaic ideas of 4-4-2 flat... well, this says some more about the good riddance...

Craig Shakespeare Didn’t Approve The Signing Of Iheanacho – Schmeichel Reveals



English Premier League legendary goalkeeper now turned pundit Peter Schmeichel has revealed that sacked Leicester City manager Craig Shakespeare wasn’t responsible for the signing of Kelechi Iheanacho from Manchester City.

Iheanacho joined The Foxes from Manchester City in the summer for a fee which could potentially rise to £30m, but he is yet to hit the same height which made him a feared striker in the English top division.

The manager who signed him Craig Shakespeare has been sacked by the club according to several sources in England following the club poor run of form that has seen them win just one game this season.

Shakespeare has been criticised over his failure to bring out the best in new signings like Iheanacho, but according to Schmeichel, the manager wasn’t the one who handled the recruitment of players in the summer.

” You can’t fault Shakespeare on the failure of the players signed in the summer. He didn’t sign them, they (Leicester) have a Director of Football who identifies players and sign them”, Schmeichel said on Skysports while speaking on the reported sack of the coach.


**Michael James


Source: http://owngoalnigeria.com/2017/10/17/craig-shakespeare-didnt-approve-the-signing-of-iheanacho-schmeichel-reveals/

This is just the beginning – Pinnick



President of Nigeria Football Federation, Mr. Amaju Melvin Pinnick has assured that the football –governing body is fully committed to bringing innovations and improved packages to the organization of the AITEO Cup competition, following Sunday’s show –stopper at the Agege Stadium.

The football may not have enraptured, but the organization and the general razzmatazz did, leading to CAF President Ahmad describing the experience as ‘exciting.’

Pinnick told thenff on Tuesday: “What we did on Sunday is the beginning of the new level to which we want to take this important competition. When we announced Agege Stadium, several people went public with condemnation of the idea. But we knew what we wanted to achieve and we went for it.

“People berated Agege and the environment and said it would not work. But we set out on an objective and we achieved our goal. We looked at the noted deficiencies and we worked on them.

“The message is that there is nothing that cannot be fixed if there is genuine intention and focus, and with dedication and hard work.”

For the first time in history, the leadership of African football was present right there at the finale of Nigeria’s oldest and most glamorous competition, and in their numbers too.

CAF President Ahmad, CAF Vice Presidents Kwesi Nyantakyi and Omari Selemani, CAF Emergency Committee member Souleiman Waberi were enthralled, alongside Governors Ambode (Lagos), Emmanuel (Akwa Ibom) and Bello (Niger), as well as Pinnick himself, NFF Vice Presidents Seyi Akinwunmi and Shehu Dikko, a representative of the Youth and Sports Minister (Nansel Nimyel), the top echelon of sponsors AITEO group, NFF Executive Committee members, members of NFF Management and members of the Lagos State Executive Council.

“I give kudos to the Organizing Committee headed by the NFF 1st Vice President (Barr. Akinwunmi), with the General Secretary (Dr. Sanusi) as secretary. They did a great job all through the competition and at the finale on Sunday. Come next year, we will bring a few more innovations and even improved packages to make the competition more glorious than ever,” Pinnick added.

Fireshoots from the ground heralded the players of Niger Tornadoes and Akwa United onto the pitch of Agege Stadium for the final, and elaborate fireworks brought a captivating night to a close on mainland Lagos.

Despite the compact nature of the arena, a large VIP tent, conveniences for men and women and adequate security put dignitaries and spectators alike at ease, and though both teams failed to put enough spark into things under floodlight, no one missed the comic relief of a yo-yo penalty shoot –out.

Champions Akwa United pocketed the sum of N25 million, with runners –up Niger Tornadoes going home with N10 million. AITEO also procured a brand new trophy for the champion team.

On Wednesday in Jos, the winner of the women’s competition, between Cup holders Rivers Angels and ambitious Ibom Angels, will smile to the bank with N10 million, leaving the runners –up with N5 million. There will also be a brand new trophy for the champion team to go home with.


AWARD WINNERS (AITEO 2017 MEN’S FINAL)

Champions - Akwa United

Runners – up - Niger Tornadoes

Most Valuable Player – Olorunleke Ojo

Top Scorer – Christian Pyagbara

Fairplay Award – Sunshine Stars FC

Best Goalkeeper – Olorunleke Ojo

Best Coach - Abdu Maikaba


Source: http://www.thenff.com/2017/10/this-is-just-the-beginning-pinnick/

Amuneke Backs Teenage Deportivo Goalkeeper Uzoho For World Cup Spot
By Johnny Edward




Former Super Eagles forward Emmanuel Amuneke believes Francis Uzoho has enough quality to compete for a place in the World Cup bound squad if given a chance, Completesportsnigeria.com reports.

Teenage goalkeeper Uzoho made an impressive debut for Deportivo La Coruna, keeping a clean sheet in Sunday’s 0-0 draw at Eibar and Amuneke believes with a bit of consistency he could become a top goalkeeper for club and country.

Amuneke who was part of the national U-17 technical crew that discovered Uzoho in 2012 stated that 18-year-old was unlucky not to be Golden Eaglets’ No.1 at the 2013 FIFA U-17 World Cup in the United Arab Emirates.

“He (Uzoho) was brilliant against Eibar and I think he will develop into a top player since he has gott his chance,” Amuneke told Completesportsnigeria.com.

“Getting a chance with the Super Eagles will be good for him but he must be convincing in more games.

“Credit must be given to Emeka Amadi for the steady rise of these goalkeepers coming up. Not many gave them a chance but he trained them and kept faith with them.”

Uzoho was part of the victorious Nigeria squad at the 2013 FIFA U-17 World Cup in the United Arab Emirates, without featuring in a single match at the tournament.

“He was unlucky not to be No.1 then because Alampasu was consistent,” Amuneke, who led the Eaglets to retain the trophy in 2015, added.

“Amadi groomed the likes of Dele Alampasu, Akpan Udoh and Uzoho.

“Credit must also go to Gernot Rohr who has encouraged more young players in the senior national team so it will not be out of place if he is called up to compete.”

Uzoho who is the youngest foreign goalkeeper to ever play in La Liga at 18 also took to Twitter to share his excitement at his debut.

“A day that will never disappear from my memory – my debut – thanks all for the support,” he wrote on Twitter.


Source: https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/amuneke-backs-teenage-deportivo-goalkeeper-uzoho-world-cup-spot/

Ambrose Eager To Shine For Hibernian In Cup Semi-final Clash Vs Former Club Celtic
By David meshioye




Hibernian FC defender Efe Ambrose says he is looking forward to face his former club Celtic in this weekend’s Betfred Cup (Scottish League Cup) semi-finals match, purely for sportsmanship reasons than revenge, Completesportsnigeria.com reports.

In an exclusive chat with Completesportsnigeria.com the former Celtic defender insists he still holds the club in high esteem after he fell out of favour with their fans.

The former Ashford FC of Israel defender says that what is paramount before him is ensuring that The Hibs overcome Celtic at Hampden on Saturday.

“No, there is nothing like revenge or payback time, I just want return to Hampden Park and give my best to ensure Hibernian win,” Ambrose reiterates during an exclusive chat with Completesportnigeria.com .

“Brendan Rodgers likes me alot, but it was the fans that instigated my departure. I respect Celtic, but I owe Hibs my loyalty now.

” I am looking forward to the game with confidence that we will win. It’s a huge game ,and I hope we carry the day by the grace of God.”

In other semi-final matches of the Betfred Cup, Rangers and Motherwell go head to head on Sunday for a place in the final.
Ambrose, 28, joined Hibernian on a two-year deal following a successful short-term loan from Celtic at the end of the 2016/17 season in which he where he featured twelve times for the club.


Source: https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/ambrose-eager-shine-hibernian/

TheSuperNerd:
Posted this news much earlier Sir..... But thanks all the same... Happy Sunday Sir Soetan....

I'm sorry... Later saw it posted...

Same to you Mister... Hope you are doing good

Ajayi Scores Second Goal In Three Games For Al Ahly



Nigerian striker Junior Ajayi was on target for Al Ahly who thrashed bottom team El Raja Marsa Matruh in the Egyptian first division on Monday night.

Ajayi also scored in Ahly’s last league game against Al Ittihad last Thursday, scoring his side’s first goal.

The Rio 2016 Olympic bronze medal winner with Nigeria’s U-23 Eagles, has now scored two goals in three games for Ahly in the new Egyptian season.

Ahmed Fathi put Ahly 1-0 ahead in the seventh minute before Momen Zakaria made it 2-0 on 20 minutes.

On the stroke of halftime, Ajayi got on the score sheet to give Ahly a 3-0 lead.

Ahmed Ouka pulled a goal back for El Raja to bring the score to 3-1 before Saad Samir restored their three-goal lead to end the game 4-1.

Ahly now occupy seventh position on seven points in the 18-team Egyptian top league standing.

Source: https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/ajayi-scores-second-goal-al-ahly/

Eagles Midfielder Mikel Agu Rated Best Player In Turkish League Team Of The Week



Super Eagles midfielder Mikel Agu has once again made the Team of the Week in Turkey after his scintillating performance against Osmanlispor yesterday.

Agu picked up an assist and also found the back of the net yesterday as they ran out 3-1 winners over Osmanlispor, a performance that earned him the Man of the Match award.

On loan from FC Porto , the 24 year old has been ever present for the Turkish team since the start of the season, a form that has helped him keep his spot in the Nigeria national team, although his last three games has ended in criticism from fans of the team.

The midfielder is however proving coach Gernot Rohr right with his performances in Turkey following another team of the week nomination, which also came with the midfielder getting the highest rating among all players in the team of the week.


Source: http://owngoalnigeria.com/2017/10/17/eagles-midfielder-mikel-agu-rated-best-player-in-turkish-league-team-of-the-week/

No Break Clause In Onyekuru’s Loan Deal At Anderlecht – Agent Rule Out Everton Return



On loan Everton forward Henry Onyekuru won’t be returning to the club in January from his loan spell at Belgium side Anderlecht according to a representative of the Nigeria international.

Onyekuru has maintained the form that made Everton snap him up from Eupen of Belgium in the summer with six goals to his name from nine games this season at his loan club Anderlecht.

The scorer of 24 goals last season confirmed talks over a possible return to Everton who are struggling to score goals took place last week but nothing has been agreed yet regarding a move back to the club in January.

” It’s unfortunate that he can’t join Everton till the summer, as there is no break clause in his loan deal and aside that he is not qualify for a work permit yet”, his intermediary told Owngoalnigeria.com.

” The plan for now is still the same like in the summer, which is spend a season on loan before returning back to Everton next summer to fight for a shirt in the team”.


**Daniel Martins

Source: http://owngoalnigeria.com/2017/10/17/no-break-clause-in-onyekurus-loan-deal-at-anderlecht-agent-rule-out-everton-return/

NFF ponders two friendlies for Super Eagles after qualifier against Algeria
By Christian Okpara

Amaju Pinnick

• Holds yearly general assembly in Jos



The Nigeria Football Federation ( NFF ) , which begins its yearly general assembly in Jos tomorrow (today) , is pondering reported overtures from two unnamed countries for friendly matches with the Super Eagles immediately after next month ’ s Russia 2018 World Cup qualifier against Algeria .

England has reportedly contacted Nigeria over a friendly game with the team to help both nations prepare for the World Cup in Russia next year . But Super Eagles ’ Media Officer, Toyin Ibitoye , dismissed the report , affirming , however, there were plans for a friendly with a yet to be determined country after the game with Algeria next month .

“ We cannot talk about playing England now when the draw for the World Cup has not been made . We can only talk about teams when we know our group opponents at the World Cup . But there is a game lined up for the Eagles immediately after the qualifier in Algeria , ” Ibitoye said.

An NFF official , who pleaded anonymity , however, told The Guardian that the federation actually has two friendly opportunities for the Eagles, which would be discussed at the meeting in Jos .

“ The matches are just for Coach Rohr to look at some of the players who have not featured in competitive games for the team.
“ Rohr wants to look at as many players as possible before deciding those that will make his squad when the actual preparation for the World Cup begins next year , ” the source said.

The NFF in a statement yesterday said the general assembly brings together the kernel of Nigeria ’ s football family, including Chairmen and Secretaries of the Football

Associations of all 36 States and the Federal Capital Territory , Chairmen and Secretaries of the various Leagues , Referees Association, Coaches Association and the Players’ Union , the members of the NFF Executive Committee and Management , and stakeholders of the game invited for the purpose .

Items on the agenda include presentation of the Consolidated and Revised Balance Sheet and Profit - and -Loss Statement, presentation of the Financial Statement for approval , presentation of the 2018 Budget for approval , votes on proposals for amendments to the Statutes, the regulations governing the application of the Statutes and the standing orders of the General Assembly, as well as discussion of any further items proposed by the Members or by the Executive Committee .

During the business of the assembly proper , NFF President , Amaju Pinnick , will present his address , encapsulating activities within the football sector since the last assembly and the Federation ’ s plans for the year 2018, while General Secretary, Mohammed Sanusi , will also present the activity report.


Source: https://m.guardian.ng/sport/nff-ponders-two-friendlies-for-super-eagles-after-qualifier-against-algeria/