Nigeria Premier League

Wozniacki has ‘nothing to lose’ ahead of tennis comeback

Caroline Wozniacki has put in the hard yards ahead of her return to tennis, but she is not “stressing” or “worried” before finally stepping onto the court at the Canadian Open.

More than three years after “retiring” following her exit from the 2020 Australian Open, Wozniacki will make her comeback at the WTA 1000 tournament in Montreal on Tuesday when she takes on Kimberly Birrell of Australian in the first round.

Since announcing in June that she is to return to the Tour, the former world No 1 has been getting in a lot of practice sessions to make sure she is ready – even playing against fellow Dane and world No 6 Holger Rune.

Although she is ready for the big match, Wozniacki refuses to put too much pressure on herself.

“Tennis-wise, I feel like I’m doing great in practice and it’s going to be just fine when I’m out there,” the 2018 Australian Open champion said. “So I’m not stressing. I’m not worried. It’s just about getting more and more matches in and the more I play the better I’m going to play. I hope that I’m going to be at my peak for the US Open.

“Realistically when you haven’t been on tour and haven’t played a match in so long, no matter how much you practice, how many practice sets you’ve done, you can never replicate being on a match court.”

During the past 43 months on the sidelines, the 33-year-old became a mother of two as she gave birth to her daughter Olivia in June 2021 before her son James joined the family in October the following year.

Travelling with young children is never easy, but Wozniacki and her husband David Lee are enjoying the challenge.

“It’s not easy logistically with having children and travelling with them and doing all of that, but it’s so worth it,” she said

“Olivia has had a blast so far, these last four or five days we’ve been here. I’ve experienced more of Montreal in these last five days than I have in the many times I’ve been here before. So it’s exciting for me too.”

As a former world No 1 and a Grand Slam champion, Wozniacki has already achieved a lot in tennis and her return is not too much about goals, but more about her love for the sport.

“At this point in my career and a lot of the players’ careers that have been on tour for a long time, you know how to play your game,” she said.

“You know what you need to improve on or what you’re doing great. But at the end of the day, a lot of it is mental and in important moments you need to be able to step up and play your best and not fear failure. You’ve got to want to take your opportunity to take your chances.

“I’m here. I’ve got nothing to lose. I have already done so much in my career and basically ticked off most of the goals that I had set. But I’m here because I love to compete. I love the sport, and I feel like I still have a lot to give to the sport. And doing it with the family just makes it so much more enjoyable.”

Nigeria Premier League

Rivers United Back To Top Spot In NPFL Title Race

Rivers United are back on top of the NPFL standings after they beat visiting Kano Pillars and closest rivals Remo Stars fell at Niger Tornadoes.

Rivers United pipped Kano Pillars courtesy of a first-half strike by Aniekeme Okon to return of the table with 29 points from 15 matches.

Remo Stars slipped to second in the standings after they lost 2-1 at Niger Tornadoes.

They have 26 points, three points behind new leaders Rivers United.

Ikorodu City and Heartland FC continued their steady climb to top reckoning after they both won at home.

Ikorodu City smashed past Akwa United 4-1 to shoot to third place on the table with 24 points.

NPFL leading scorer Anas Yusuf broke his four-match run without a goal when he scored after 45 minutes to draw Nasarawa United level at 1-1 only for ‘The Solid Miners’ to fall 3-2 at Heartland.

Heartland are now ninth on the table on 20 points.

Bayelsa United held El Kanemi Warriors to a goalless draw in Maiduguri, while Katsina United edged past Sunshine Stars 1-0 at home.

Scorenigeria

Nigeria Premier League

Ahmed Musa Donates ₦500,000 Each To Kano Pillars, Mighty Teams

According to govima.com, Nigeria’s Super Eagles Icon, Ahmed Musa, has generously donated ₦500,000 each to the players of Kano Pillars FC Under-19 team and Mighty Jets Under-19 team. This gesture was in recognition of their impressive performances in the ongoing inaugural Under-19 Youth League.

The donation followed Kano Pillars Under-19’s thrilling 3-2 victory over Mighty Jets in a highly competitive match held on Tuesday at the Sani Abacha Stadium, Kano. The game showcased remarkable skill and determination from both sides, highlighting the potential of Nigeria’s budding football talents.

Musa, Nigeria’s all-time leading scorer in the FIFA World Cup, personally attended the match alongside his Kano Pillars teammates. He stayed to witness the conclusion of the Youth League fixture before joining his team’s training session in preparation for their Nigeria Premier Football League Match Day 13 clash against Lobi Stars.

Known for his leadership both on and off the pitch, Musa continues to be a beacon of hope and inspiration. Since rejoining Kano Pillars, he has been instrumental in the team’s performance, contributing to 95% of their goals this season. Over the weekend, he scored his fifth goal of the season, a powerful header against Heartland FC, while also providing three assists and winning three penalties for his side.

Musa’s commitment to grassroots football development was evident in this latest act of generosity, which aims to motivate young players to pursue excellence. The Under-19 Youth League, a platform designed to uncover future stars, aligns perfectly with his vision for the growth of Nigerian football.

As Kano Pillars prepare to face Lobi Stars at the Lafia City Stadium on Saturday, fans are hopeful that Musa’s leadership and stellar form will continue to drive the four-time Nigerian champions towards success.

Ahmed Musa’s unwavering dedication to supporting the sport at all levels underscores his enduring legacy in Nigerian football, making him a role model for the next generation of players. His contributions, both financial and motivational, remain unparalleled, cementing his place as a true ambassador of the game.

Nigeria Premier League

Shehu Abdullahi : The Maestro’s Midfield Magic

By Abdul A Kaugama

Shehu Abdullahi’s outstanding performance in Kano Pillars’ recent match has left fans and critics in awe. The midfielder’s clinical work and vision on the pitch prove that he’s still a force to be reckoned with in Nigerian football.

With precision passing and exceptional control, Shehu dictated the pace of the game, showcasing his mastery of the midfield.

His experience and skill were evident as he effortlessly navigated the opposition’s defense. The fans’ electrifying energy was matched only by Shehu’s infectious passion for the game.

Shehu’s resurgence is a testament to his dedication and hard work. His display of top-notch football skills is a clarion call for his return to the Super Eagles. Nigeria’s national team needs his expertise and leadership to excel on the international stage.

In conclusion, Shehu Abdullahi’s impressive form is a welcome development for Nigerian football. As he continues to dazzle fans with his midfield magic, we eagerly anticipate his next move.
May Allah continue to bless Shehu Abdullahi with strength, wisdom, and success in his football career.