Nigeria Premier League

Table Tennis: Nigeria Rivals Egypt, As Battle For Paris 2024 Paralympic Games Tickets Hots Up

The battle for the continent’s highest slots in the table tennis event of Paris 2024 Paralympic Games will be between Nigeria and Egypt when the qualifying tournament begins on September 20 in Egypt.

Already, some established players like Isau Ogunkunle, Faith Obazuaye, Tajudeen Agunbiade and a host of others have been confirmed for the 2023 ITTF African Para Table Tennis Championships which will take place at Hassan Moustafa Sports Hall in Giza, Egypt.

In their usual style, host country, Egypt is planning to assemble some of its finest players that will battle Nigeria which will also assemble a large contingent to secure more slots from the tournament.

From the previous qualifiers coupled with performance from the last edition of the African championships, Egypt and Nigeria are the dominant teams in the continent with the likes of Algeria and South Africa joining the fray in the medal chase.

At the Paralympic Games, Egypt and Nigeria have also been representing Africa with both countries having medals to show for their participation at the games.

However, 2022 Commonwealth Games medalist Ogunkunle believes he would be unstoppable in Egypt.

“I am going to Egypt to confirm my ticket to Paris because I cannot afford to start travelling abroad again to pick up my ticket.

“This is the best chance for me, and I know it is not going to be easy because my main challenge remains the Egyptian veteran Mohamed Sameh Eid Saleh who is eyeing a record sixth appearance at the games. I am confident I can beat him to the sole slot in the class four division of the men’s singles,” he said.

Already, ‘Team Nigeria’ is in camp in readiness for the tournament as most of the players are putting the finishing touches to their training before their departure next week.

Meanwhile, President of the African Table Tennis Federation (ATTF) Khaled El-Salhy said the organisers; the Egypt Table Tennis Federation have been working tirelessly to stage a befitting tournament.

“I am looking forward to the best para players in Africa slugging it out for the few slots available as it is only the winner from each class that will qualify for the Paralympic Games, while others that are yet to meet the required points will have to compete in other tournaments to pick up the maximum points to be part of the party in Paris next year,” he said.

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.