Local News
Over 100 Girls Attend First Day of Asisat Oshoala Academy Scouting Trials
The Asisat Oshoala Academy (AOA) kicked off its highly anticipated scouting trials today with an overwhelming turnout of over 100 aspiring female footballers from Lagos and the Southwest region. Held at the Femi Gbajabiamila Mini-stadium in Abalti Barracks, Ojuelegba, the trials commenced promptly at 1 pm, marking the beginning of an exciting journey for these young athletes.
Coach Alabi Kazeem, head coach of Asisat Oshoala Academy, expressed his delight at the impressive turnout on the first day of trials. “The enthusiasm displayed by the girls validates our decision to hold these trials. They are eager and passionate about pursuing a football career. We are thrilled to witness such dedication and talent,” Coach Kazeem remarked.
Amidst cheers and spirited performances, the aspiring footballers showcased their skills and determination as they competed for a chance to secure a spot on the prestigious academy team. The atmosphere at the Femi Gbajabiamila Mini-stadium was charged with excitement and anticipation as the girls gave their all on the field.
The scouting trials continue tomorrow and will culminate on February 9, providing aspiring female footballers with a platform to showcase their talents and compete for 15 coveted spots on the academy team, and the academy anticipates even more promising talent to emerge. The selection process will be rigorous, with the coaching staff meticulously assessing each participant’s skills, teamwork, and dedication. The trials are open to all and admission is free, underscoring AOA’s commitment to providing opportunities for talented young girls to pursue their dreams in football.
The trials, held in partnership with global sportswear brand Nike and Women Win, align with the academy’s broader vision to serve as a crucial pipeline for emerging stars in national youth female teams and, ultimately, the Super Falcons.
In addition to the scouting trials, Asisat Oshoala Academy continues to make strides in shaping the future of women’s football in Nigeria. Notably, the academy recently facilitated the transfer of one of its players to Nasarawa Amazon FC, reinforcing its commitment to providing a pathway for talented individuals to advance in their football careers.
As the city eagerly anticipates the culmination of the trials, the Femi Gbajabiamila Mini-stadium remains a hub of dreams and aspirations for young, ambitious female footballers seeking to make their mark in the world of football.
For media inquiries and further information, please contact asisatoshoalaacademy@gmail.com.
Local News
Fikayo Tomori Explains Why He Chose England Over Nigeria
AC Milan defender Fikayo Tomori has opened up on his decision to represent England on the international stage, explaining that the Nigerian Football Federation never officially contacted him.
Tomori, who initially represented Canada at youth level, later switched allegiance to England, earning five senior caps to date. While several English youth internationals with Nigerian heritage, including Ola Aina, Alex Iwobi, and Ademola Lookman, have opted for the Super Eagles, Tomori’s path led him to the Three Lions.
Tomori On His Decision
Speaking on the Filthy Fellas Podcast, Tomori outlined how England reached out after his stint with Canada’s youth team:
“I was playing for the Canada youth team, but about four months later, the England Academy manager reached out about the possibility of switching over. The next international break, England called me, and I knew I had to go. I thought if I said no, would I ever get a call-up again?”
He added that the transition felt natural because many of his Chelsea teammates, like Tammy Abraham, were already in the England setup.
“It didn’t feel different [from Canada] because all my friends were in there… it felt like Chelsea again,” Tomori said.
Nigeria’s Missed Opportunity
Tomori admitted that if Nigeria had made an approach, he might have considered playing for the Super Eagles.
“If it was Nigeria, I’d have gone,” he stated.
However, he clarified that no official call ever came, leaving him with no real choice.
“Would I have changed to Nigeria from England? I don’t know because at the time, I was playing for Chelsea, so I thought I would play for England. It’s not like I wouldn’t have played there, but they never called me, so I never had a choice to make.”
As Tomori continues to establish himself in Serie A with Milan, he now focuses on securing a spot in England’s 2026 World Cup squad, hoping to make his mark on football’s biggest stage.
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Local News
Wilfred Ndidi Backed By Sunday Oliseh As The Next Super Eagles Captain
Local News
William Troost-Ekong Bows Out: An Emotional Farewell That Shakes Up The Super Eagles Camp
William Troost-Ekong Bows Out In Emotional Goodbye
Super Eagles fans woke up to unexpected news as captain William Troost-Ekong officially announced his retirement from international football. Despite being listed in Eric Chelle’s 54-man provisional squad for AFCON 2025, the 2023 AFCON MVP revealed via a heartfelt video on X (formerly Twitter) that his journey with Nigeria had reached its final chapter.
The announcement came with a touching message:
“HONOURED. GRATEFUL. FOREVER A SUPER EAGLE. Playing for Nigeria has been the greatest privilege of my life. The journey may end here, but my support never will. Here’s to the next chapter.”
With 83 caps in 10 years, Ekong leaves behind a legacy of leadership, consistency, and unmatched patriotism. He was instrumental in Nigeria’s run to the 2023 AFCON final and became one of the most respected voices in the national team.
Why Now? A Transition Already In Motion
In recent months, Troost-Ekong’s role had gradually shifted. The impressive rise of 20-year-old Benjamin Fredrick pushed him out of the starting XI, reducing the captain to a bench role. One of the most emotional revelations was his admission that he was supposed to take a penalty in Nigeria’s World Cup qualifier shootout against DR Congo—but being benched meant he couldn’t step up.
Still, Ekong showed class:
“I wasn’t frustrated; I just wanted to win this game… My role is to support the team as much as possible, both on and off the pitch.”
He had also hinted earlier this year that AFCON 2025 might be his final tournament, showing that this transition wasn’t entirely sudden—it was coming.
Ndidi Tipped To Take The Captain’s Armband
The big question now is: who leads the Super Eagles?
Former coach Sunday Oliseh believes the answer is simple—Wilfred Ndidi.
Ndidi has captained the team in recent matches and commands full respect in the squad. According to Oliseh:
“Nobody doubts the respect the players have for Ndidi. And he’s a player that plays every game.”
With AFCON 2025 approaching quickly, stability is crucial—and Ndidi might be the perfect bridge into Nigeria’s next era.
A Legacy Forever Etched In Nigerian Football
Troost-Ekong leaves as a true patriot: admired, respected, and loved. His leadership transcended the pitch—he was the voice of calm, the anchor in tough moments, and the embodiment of commitment.
For the Super Eagles, a new chapter begins.
But for fans, William Troost-Ekong will always remain a Super Eagle—forever.
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