Nigeria Premier League

Messi wins record eighth Ballon d’Or

Lionel Messi has won the 2023 men’s Ballon d’Or for a record eighth time on Monday after captaining Argentina to a 2022 FIFA World Cup triumph in Qatar last year.

The 36-year-old was recognised as the best footballer ahead of Manchester City’s Erling Haaland and former Paris Saint-Germain teammate Kylian Mbappe, as well as 26 other nominees to win the award.

Messi toasted his award to his Argentinian teammates and the late legend Diego Maradona, who led the country to its second World Cup victory back in 1986.

“I couldn’t imagine having the career that I’ve had. Everything that I’ve achieved,” Messi said after getting his award.

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“The fortune I’ve had playing for the best team in the world, the best team in history. It’s nice to win these individual trophies. To win the Copa America and then the World Cup, to get it done is amazing. All of them [Ballon d’Or awards] are special for different reasons,” the Inter Miami superstar added.

“My last mention is for Diego [Maradona],” Messi said.

“Today is his birthday. So I would like to remember him from here, surrounded by the best players, coaches, and people who love football like he did. Wherever you are, Diego, happy birthday. This goes also to you,” the superstar, dubbed the ‘Greatest of All Time’, said.

Messi has now etched his name into the history books after becoming the first to win the Ballon d’Or eight times – in 2009 and then again in 2010, 2011, 2012, 2015, 2019, 2021 and now 2023.

Cristiano Ronaldo comes second to Messi as the most decorated player in the history of the Ballon d’Or award, with five titles.

However, this year, Ronaldo was not nominated for the 2023 edition, ending a 20-year run. Now playing for Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, Ronaldo missed the cut for the first time since 2003.

Haaland finished second following a season in which he scored 52 goals across all competitions, while Mbappe missed out on the podium.

Ballon d’Or Feminin
Barcelona and Spain midfielder Aitana Bonmati won the fifth edition of the Ballon d’Or Feminin, the first time the 25-year-old has obtained the award.

Bonmati featured in the Women’s World Cup final, in which Spain defeated England 1-0 in a stunning face-off.

“I’m very proud to receive this Ballon d’Or tonight. It’s been quite a unique level, football-wise. It’s an individual award, but football is a team sport, so I’d like to extend this prize to my teammates, the staff, everyone involved at Barcelona, all my international teammates as well,” Bonmati said upon winning the award.

Sam Kerr of Australia came second, while 19-year-old rising star Salma Paralluelo from Spain claimed third place.

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.

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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.