Nigeria Premier League

Roger Federer reveals dream Laver Cup doubles pairing for 2024

Roger Federer was a shining star at the 2024 Laver Cup even though he never hit a ball in anger and now he has picked out the two players he would like to see in Team Europe for next year’s competition in Berlin.

Team World clinched a one-sided competition as their star turns Ben Shelton and Frances Tiafoe won a doubles match against Hubert Hurkacz and Andrey Rublev, sealing a 13-2 win in a match that lacked the drama of previous Laver Cup contests.

Federer’s presence and on-court interview was a highlight of the weekend, but there were some suggestions that the Laver Cup may struggle to maintain its place in tennis without players of his ilk taking part.

With Team Europe lacking star names like Novak Djokovic, Carlos Alcaraz, Daniil Medvedev and Stefanos Tsitsipas, captain Bjorn Borg has a tough task to field a competitive team against a strong Team World side led by captain John McEnroe.

There may now be some questions over what comes next for the Laver Cup after a one-side contest in Vancouver, with Federer certain to play a central role in what comes next.

The 20-time Grand Slam champion has been a key figure in the organisation of the Laver Cup over the first six editions of the event and he confirmed how much the event meant to him as he opted to bring down the curtain on his career at the 2022 edition in London last September.

Speaking after Team World’s dominant win in Vancouver, Federer admitted Team Europe need more of their star names to shine and he suggested he wants to see Djokovic and Alcaraz play on the same team in Berlin next year.

“I think we will have a much better team as Team Europe and I think the energy will come back to our side,” Federer told Eurosport.

“I would like to see Novak coming back into the team and Alcaraz. To have Alcaraz and Novak on the same team, I’d love to see that.

“Sasha Zvereva has been such a big supporter of the Laver Cup so hopefully he can play in Germany.

“Tsitsipas and Rune will be big players for Team Europe if they play and hopefully someone else breaks through and gets a chance to be a pick for for Bjorn Borg.”

Federer went on to admit he misses elements of tennis since his retirement, even though he is enjoying a different pace of life with his wife and four children.

“Secretly, I miss it,” he continued. “I miss seeing the happy faces of people that hopefully I was able to entertain.

“I guess you like to be the centre of attention at times, but on the other hand, it doesn’t matter that I’m not any more.

“It’s good with the way my life is right now. The Tour was good to me. I loved every moment, but I am happy with my life now.”

Federer also defended the event in Vancouver, as he insisted the fans who packed the stands enjoyed the three days of competition.

“I thought it was a success,” he added. “A lot of people came, it was pretty much a sell-out.

“A great stadium, an unbelievable city and no hiccups along the way. I thought it was perfect.

“It’s great to be back and in the tennis family again.

“I watched every match, I was very busy around the event and it has been a lot of fun.

“Now I can’t want to bring tennis back to Germany. We had big events there in the past and I’m looking forward to going there.”

The Laver Cup needs an injection of inspiration after an uninspiring few days in Canada and the return of Europe’s big hitters on German soil a year from now could be the tonic it requires.

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.