News

Super Eagles Midfielder Ndidi Pays Courtesy Visit To Sports Minister

Super Eagles midfielder Wilfred Ndidi paid a courtesy visit to the office of the Honourable Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh, on Wednesday, May 14, 2024.

Accompanied by his manager, Yahaya Atom, and Mr. Yemi Idowu, Ndidi engaged in discussions with the Sports Minister on various matters pertaining to Nigerian football.

During the visit, Senator Enoh extended his congratulations to Ndidi on Leicester City’s promotion to the English Premier League, acknowledging the midfielder’s contributions to the team’s success. He also took the opportunity to discuss the upcoming World Cup qualifying matches, scheduled to commence early next month.

The minister emphasized the importance of preparation and urged Ndidi to play a pivotal role in the Super Eagles’ quest to secure their place in the World Cup. He encouraged Ndidi to continue to exhibit the same level of dedication and skill that has made him a valuable asset to both club and country.

Also, Ndidi conveyed his appreciation to Senator Enoh, expressing gratitude for the minister’s undiluted support and commitment to the well-being of the Super Eagles team, particularly during the recent Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament. He commended Senator Enoh for the excellent care and assistance provided to the team throughout their campaign.

The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both Ndidi and Senator Enoh expressing optimism for the future of Nigerian football and pledging their continued support to the advancement of the sport in the country.

News

AFCON 2025: Yobo to serve as draw assistant

Former Super Eagles defender Joseph Yobo has been selected as one of the draw assistants for the final draw of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The draw ceremony is set to take place today at the Mohammed V National Theatre in Rabat, Morocco, where the 24 qualified teams will discover their paths to the trophy.

Yobo will be joined by other African football icons, including Mustapha Hadji, Serge Aurier, and Aliou Cisse.

The quartet will not only oversee the draw by selecting balls from the pots but will also share their insights on the tournament groups.

The 2025 AFCON finals will be hosted in Morocco from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026.

News

Super Eagles will succeed under Eric Chelle – Sadiq Umar

Super Eagles forward Umar Sadiq has expressed his support for the team’s new head coach, Eric Chelle, and is optimistic about his success in the role.

Chelle was appointed as the Super Eagles’ head coach earlier this month, a decision that has sparked criticism directed at the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).

Despite the backlash, Sadiq is confident in the 47-year-old’s ability to lead the team effectively.

“You can see what he did in the last AFCON. Everyone thought Mali was one of the favorites,” Sadiq told Sporty TV.

“You can see how they played. They were so good, but they got knocked out in the quarterfinals because, sometimes, it’s not the best team that wins.

“But I can tell you, I watched a lot of Mali’s games because I have a teammate there. You can see how they play, and it’s clear the coach (Chelle) has a lot of great ideas.”

Chelle’s impressive work with Mali during the previous AFCON has given Sadiq confidence that the coach can bring similar success to the Super Eagles.

News

‘I’m happy to be out there’ — Dessers opens up on Rangers exit

Cyriel Dessers has expressed his intention to remain at Rangers beyond the winter transfer window despite speculation about his future.

The Nigerian international began the season as Rangers’ first-choice striker but has since lost his spot to Hamza Igamane.

Dessers has been linked with a return to Italy, with reports suggesting interest from Cagliari and Empoli. Spanish club Leganes is also reportedly keen on signing the former Feyenoord forward.

In a recent interview, Dessers acknowledged plans to discuss his status at the club with senior officials. However, the 30-year-old revealed that no such talks have taken place yet.

“No talks at all. I don’t mind that. I try to focus on the football and the things that are happening on the pitch,” Dessers told the Daily Record.

“Those are the things that I can control. And like Sunday at Tannadice, I’m just happy to be out there with the guys, fighting for the points and being important.

“That’s what I want. There’s a lot of unfinished business at Rangers for me. That’s why I kept pushing in the last weeks—in the gym, in training, and in the minutes that you get.”

Despite his recent challenges, Dessers has had an impressive season, scoring 18 goals across all competitions under manager Philippe Clement.