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Nigeria Premier League

African Volleyball Tourney: Nigeria Defeat Morocco, Target 5th Position Against Algeria

Nigeria defeated Morocco 3-0 (26-24, 25-21, 27-25) in the 5th to 8th classification match at the ongoing 2023 African Senior Women’s Nations Volleyball Championship in Yaounde, Cameroon on Wednesday.

Nigeria changed their starting team with Aliyat Usman, Kelechi Ndukauba, Happy Wushilang and Blessing Unkwe making the starting six against Morocco. The youthful side produced a wonderful performance coming from a deficit of five points to win by 26 to 24 points.

Coach Samuel Ajayi maintained the same players in the second set as the combination of Ijeoma Ukpabi and Happy Wushilang dismantled the Moroccans. Nigeria led comfortably with the support of the crowd winning by 25 to 21 points.

In the third set, Morocco led by 24 to 22 points before the combination of Aliyat Usman and Kelechi Ndukauba won two sets for Nigeria to equal 24 to 24 points. Ijeoma Ukpabi won Nigeria’s 25 points after which the referee made a controversial call following Happy Wushilang’s spike.

Nigeria tied 25 to 25 points and Aliyat Usman made a fantastic drop to make the score line 26 to 25 points. The game ended in favour of Nigeria with the Algeria position four sending the ball outside the court following her untimed spike.

An elated Samuel Ajayi said, “I am very happy with the victory against Morocco because I had them in mind based on what happened at the last edition of the African Championship in Rwanda where we were unlucky to win the bronze medal.

“Playing Morocco today, I told my players to take their pound of flesh by winning irrespective of playing in the classification match and the players lived up to expectations.”

Ajayi revealed that the players were not under pressure throughout the game against Morocco.

He said, “In the first set, I was not under pressure because they were leading us with four points, and we recovered and got to 20 points. I called for a time out highlighting where we needed to concentrate on and the players yielded to the instructions from the touchline; you say all my demonstrations on the court led to the players paying attention to every word.”

“I believe the players have realised their mistakes, especially the Algeria match (last group stage match) that cost us the pairing with Kenya in the quarterfinals; they were lucky in the group stage.

“We are going to reaffirm our dominance in the 5th position match and take the match seriously. By the special grace of God, Nigeria will have the day”, he added.

Nigeria will face Algeria in the fifth position match on Thursday.

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Nigeria Premier League

Rivers United Back To Top Spot In NPFL Title Race

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

 

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Nigeria Premier League

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

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.

 

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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.

Source: Facebook

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