Local News
8th National Youth Games 2024: Delta, Edo State Win Gold in U15 Rugby 7s For Boys, Girls
With 182 athletes from across the nation competing for gold, the rugby sevens competition at the 8th National Youth Games in Asaba 2024 was a thrilling display of speed, talent, and fierce determination.
In the U-15 Boys division, host team Delta secured the gold medal by defeating Kano 7-0 in a hard-fought championship match, while Edo State claimed the bronze by beating Kwara 19-0.
In the U-15 Girls division, Edo State emerged victorious in a dramatic final against reigning champions Delta, winning 5-0 in a match that was tied both in regular time and sudden death.
The game was decided by drop goal points, with Edo converting one, while Delta missed all three of their attempts. In the bronze medal match, newcomers Team Abia State clinched a 5-0 victory over Ogun State.
Dr. Ademola Are, President of the Nigeria Rugby Football Federation (NRFF), commended the athletes and assured that more tournaments would be organized to support their growth. He expressed his gratitude to the Delta State Government and the Ministry of Youth and Sports, highlighting the significance of this platform in giving the boys and girls an opportunity to showcase their skills.
General Secretary Oludare Davies praised the athletes for their outstanding performances and urged them to avoid social vices, emphasizing the importance of dedication to their training. Additionally, General Manager Mr. Azeez Ladipo used the occasion to introduce T1 Rugby to the teams, promising increased participation and development opportunities in the sport.
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**Title:** Croatia confirm Slaven Bilic return as former West Ham boss replaces Zlatko Dalic **Meta Description:** Slaven Bilic has been appointed Croatia head coach for a second spell after Zlatko Dalic stepped down following the 2026 World Cup. **Slug:** croatia-confirm-slaven-bilic-return-head-coach **Alt Image Text:** Slaven Bilic during his unveiling as Croatia national team head coach — # Croatia confirm Slaven Bilic return as former West Ham boss replaces Zlatko Dalic Croatia have officially confirmed the return of Slaven Bilic as head coach, with the former West Ham United manager replacing Zlatko Dalic following the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Bilic returns to the national team after more than a decade away, ending a two-year absence from management as he begins a second spell in charge of his country. ## Bilic begins a second spell with Croatia The Croatian Football Federation (HNS) announced Bilic’s appointment after the Executive Committee unanimously approved the recommendation of federation president Marijan Kustic. Bilic previously managed Croatia between 2006 and 2012, guiding the national team through two European Championships before embarking on a successful club coaching career that included spells with West Ham United, West Bromwich Albion, Besiktas and Al-Ittihad. The federation believes his experience and deep understanding of Croatian football make him the ideal candidate to lead the next generation. ## Huge task replacing Zlatko Dalic Bilic succeeds one of the most successful managers in Croatia’s history. Dalic stepped down after the 2026 World Cup, bringing an end to a remarkable tenure that included a World Cup final, a World Cup semi-final and several memorable tournament campaigns. Federation president Marijan Kustic acknowledged the size of the challenge but expressed complete confidence in Bilic. > “I would like to once again thank Zlatko for the exceptional results he achieved during his tenure. It is not easy to follow in his footsteps, but we are convinced Slaven is the right person for this role.” Kustic added that Bilic’s international pedigree and extensive coaching experience were decisive factors behind the appointment. ## Bilic honoured to return Bilic described his return as the greatest honour of his coaching career and admitted he understands the expectations that come with leading one of international football’s most consistent tournament teams. > “I would like to thank President Kustic and the Federation’s leadership for the confidence they have shown in allowing me to lead the Croatian national team once again — the greatest honour for any Croatian coach.” The 57-year-old also praised the standards established under Dalic while insisting he is ready for the responsibility. > “I am fully aware of the high expectations that follow such a remarkable period under Zlatko Dalic, but anyone who takes charge of Croatia must be prepared for that because we are a football nation that lives and breathes its national team.” ## A new chapter begins Bilic now faces the task of building on Dalic’s legacy while preparing Croatia for the next international cycle. With a blend of experienced stars and emerging young talent at his disposal, Croatia will hope their returning manager can guide them to another successful era on the international stage.
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