Nigeria Premier League

2026 World Cup: Obaseki hails Bendel Insurance goalie, Obasogie on call-up to Super Eagles

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has congratulated Bendel Insurance Goalkeeper, Amas Obasogie, on his call-up to the Super Eagles ahead of the FIFA World Cup Qualifiers against Lesotho and Zimbabwe.

The 23-year-old Obasogie was called up by the Super Eagles coach, Jose Peseiro to replace Maduka Okoye. He will compete with Francis Uzoho (Omonia Nicosia) and Olorunleke Ojo (Enyimba) for a starting shirt in the November internationals.

In a statement, Obaseki said, “I heartily congratulate our own dear Bendel Insurance Goalkeeper, Amas Obasogie, on his call-up to the national team, the Super Eagles ahead of the FIFA World Cup Qualifier games against Lesotho and Zimbabwe.

“With great agility, resilience, and excellent command in the air, Obasogie is unarguably one of the best shot-stoppers in the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) with an outstanding record of six clean sheets in seven matches this season and an impressive run which saw Bendel Insurance sustain a 26-game unbeaten streak last season.

“He has continued to give an excellent account of himself, showcasing his prowess, exceptional talent, and the indomitable Edo spirit, putting the State on the global map for good.

“This is indeed another win for our sustained investment in the Sports sector in Edo, with a keen focus on returning Bendel Insurance to its rightful place as a home for national team players. He is the second Bendel Insurance player to be called up to the national team in a space of one year.

“We are proud of his accomplishments and genius and wish him success in this new and exciting chapter of his football career even as we are confident that he will continue to shine and bring more laurels and glory to the State and Nigeria.”

Nigeria Premier League

Ogunmodede reflects on Emo Stars’ win over Abia Warriors

Emo Stars technical adviser Daniel Ogunmodede admitted his side was fortunate to secure a 3-2 victory over Abia Warriors in Ikenne on Wednesday.

Abia Warriors took a 2-0 lead in the first half, with goals from Ayodele Eziekel and Anthony Ijoma. However, Emo Stars responded with three goals from Olamilekan Adebayo, Jabbar Malik, and Franck Mawuena to clinch the win.

Ogunmodede acknowledged that his team had underestimated their opponents but managed to turn things around. “The game was tense and shocking in the first half on our home ground. Not every time you will be lucky against a great team we played against,” he said in the post-match interview.

“We underestimated the qualities of our opponent, and we were punished for it. But luckily, we identified the problem and readjusted to get the victory.”

Emo Stars will now aim to build on this win as they continue their campaign

Nigeria Premier League

Kano Pillars eye maximum points in midweek showdown with Ikorodu City

Kano Pillars are determined to secure all three points in their upcoming fixture against Ikorodu City in the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL).

The Sai Masu Gida will face Ikorodu City at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos on Wednesday.

Usman Abdallah’s side is upbeat and focused ahead of the match, with the players in high spirits.

“Done and dusted with the shake-ups ahead of our NPFL25 Matchday 21 clash against Ikorodu City this Wednesday at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Lagos,” Kano Pillars wrote on X.

“The boys are in high spirits and determined to secure maximum points as we aim to continue our impressive run this season.”

Kano Pillars currently sit in eighth place on the league table with 28 points.

Nigeria Premier League

Brown Ideye criticizes NPFL standards, calls for major improvements

Enyimba striker Brown Ideye has expressed dissatisfaction with the current state of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), stating that significant improvements are needed to elevate its standard.

Ideye, who rejoined the league in December 2024 after signing for Enyimba, has made appearances in both NPFL and CAF Confederation Cup matches, scoring two goals so far.

Sharing his thoughts following Enyimba’s 2-0 defeat to Kwara United in a rescheduled matchday 16 fixture in Ilorin, Ideye voiced concerns about the league’s challenges.

“The system is getting worse; the league is not improving. I feel like we have a long way to go,” Ideye remarked during an interview.

Despite enjoying his time at Enyimba, the former West Brom striker emphasized that much remains to be addressed in the league.

“My time at Enyimba has been wonderful, but there are a lot of things in the league that need improvement and haven’t changed yet,” he added.

On the poor performances of Nigerian clubs in CAF competitions, Ideye highlighted critical areas requiring attention.

“In terms of traveling, feeding, hotel accommodations, and player relaxation — it’s all bad. Nigerians are not ready for continental competitions. We need to put our house in order before going there, instead of embarrassing ourselves.”