Nigeria Premier League

Sheroes Cup 2023: Naija Ratels, Edo Queens record first victories

It was a moment of talent display and team bonding amidst atmosphere of conviviality as the 6th edition of Sheroes Cup glamorously kicked off at the lushy football pitch, located inside Aguiyi Ironsi Military Cantonment Abuja on Saturday October 7, 2023.

Aside football matches which showcased young women players from parts of the country on Day One of the competition which also prepares teams ahead of the new football season, the fully-packed spectators’ corner afforded fans, family and friends to relax and catch a glimpse of soccer mastery.

Captain of Nigeria’s Super Falcons, Onome Ebi, was among top dignitaries who graced the opening event.

In an action-packed encounter, the first match of the day ended with former Sheroes Cup Champions Edo Queens thrashing debutants and new entrants to the Premiership of Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL), Ekiti Queens 4-1.

The four goals from Edo Queens were scored in first half with Goodness Osigwe, Suliat Abideen, Omotoke Odueke and Emem Essien registering their names on the scoring sheet. The only goal from the Ekiti side came from Seun Fakunle.

Thereafter, the game between Naija Ratels and Sunshine Queens, which served as the official opening kick-off of the pre-season tournament, happened at the same venue. Naija Ratels won the encounter 2-1, courtesy of goals from Augustina Unamba and Bankole Sofiat. The consolation goal from Sunshine Queens came from Eunice Ezeani.

Performing the official opening ceremony, President of Ratels Sports Development Foundation (RSDF) Barr. Paul Edeh underscored the importance of the competition, formerly known as Flying Officer’s Cup since inception in 2019.

He said, “The idea behind this pre-season is to bring all women teams together as they prepare for the new season. The RSDF has solely funded this tournament since it started in 2019. The competition has been living up to the expectation of preparing teams that have gone ahead to win the NWFL premiership as well as done Nigeria proud in the CAF Women’s Champions League participation.”

While paying glowing tribute to the leadership of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Referees Committee anchored by Mrs Faith Irabor, Barr. Edeh, who is also the Chairman of Benue State Football Association (BSFA), made ceaseless case for enhanced officiating during the current pre-season outing and when the regular season gets underway.

“We thank the Chairperson of the NWFL for making giant steps in ensuring that women football continuously rise in Nigeria, with the increase of participating clubs in the women premier league from 14 to 16. We know that in the long run, the participating clubs in line with gender parity will increase steadily from one season to another,” he said.

The Chairperson of NWFL, Ms. Nkechi Obi, while commending the quality organisation of the competition, reckoned, “This competition has been veritable in helping clubs prepare for new season by way of assessing their players especially new ones.

“It is left private or corporate bodies to take advantage of this kind of tournament to showcase the things they do as well as support human development efforts.”

She, however, revealed that “very soon, the NWFL management will be unveiling welfare package for players in the coming season.”

NFF Referees Chairman, Mrs Irabor, reeled out ongoing efforts to upgrade Nigerians’ referees to measure up to international best standards and assured of the Federation’s commitment geared towards improving the round leather game through quality officiating.

Talking about the format of this year’s competition, Chairman of the Organising Committee and FCT FA Secretary, Coach Haruna Ilerika, said all participating teams will first play round-robin games, before the top two clubs would engage in a final battle to determine the eventual winners.

Coach Ilerika said the third and fourth clubs will face each other in a third place match.

Action continues on Sunday at Abacha Barracks pitch, where Dannaz Ladies will take on Honey Badgers, being the only match of the day.

Delta Queens, though absent in the ongoing edition, are the defending Champions of the tournament, with Imo Strikers triumphing in the NWFL Championship edition held earlier in 2023.

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.