News

Tella Nominated for Leverkusen’s January Goal of the Month Award

Super Eagles winger Nathan Tella has been shortlisted for Bayer Leverkusen’s Goal of the Month for January.

Tella’s nomination comes after his impressive strike during Leverkusen’s 3-2 victory against Borussia Dortmund at Signal Iduna Park on January 10. The goal marked his first of the season for Die Werkself.

Also competing for the award are Alejandro Grimaldo, Florian Wirtz, and Patrick Schick.

Tella, 25, has made 16 Bundesliga appearances for Xabi Alonso’s side this season, showcasing his growing influence within the team.

Fans are expected to vote for the winner, with Tella hoping to clinch the accolade.

News

Azpilicueta Names Drogba Among His Toughest Opponents

Former Chelsea captain Cesar Azpilicueta has revealed his three toughest-ever opponents, naming Didier Drogba, Eden Hazard, and Diego Costa.

Speaking to ESPN, the 35-year-old defender highlighted his experiences facing these formidable players during his illustrious career. Interestingly, Azpilicueta was teammates with all three during his time at Chelsea but also faced them as opponents in different competitions.

“Well, the one that comes out quickly is Eden Hazard because he was my teammate for a long time,” Azpilicueta said. “Also, when I was in Marseille, we played against Lille, and I remember Hazard giving us a tough time.”

He recalled facing Didier Drogba while the Ivorian striker was at Galatasaray:
“You know Didier Drogba, he was a tough striker when I faced him while at Chelsea.”

Azpilicueta also mentioned Diego Costa, reflecting on their encounter during Costa’s time at Atletico Madrid:
“Diego Costa was fierce. I would say he rounds up my top three toughest opponents.”

Azpilicueta’s career spans numerous encounters with top-tier players, solidifying his reputation as one of the most reliable defenders of his generation.

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Alex Iwobi Names Jay Jay Okocha as His Greatest of All Time

Fulham midfielder Alex Iwobi has revealed that his uncle, legendary former Super Eagles captain Austin Jay Jay Okocha, is his all-time greatest player.

Speaking on the ‘Is This Seat Taken?’ podcast, Iwobi expressed admiration for Okocha, highlighting his influence both on and off the pitch.

“My GOAT is forever my uncle, Jay Jay Okocha. I have to shout him out all the time. He’s always a legend on and off the field,” Iwobi said.

The Super Eagles star fondly recalled watching Okocha’s training sessions and matches, crediting him for teaching him how to express himself on the field.

“Off the field, he advises me on how to be professional, manage my money, and stay humble and grounded. He will always be my idol,” Iwobi added.

Okocha, widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s greatest footballers, enjoyed a decorated career with clubs like Bolton Wanderers, Paris Saint-Germain, and Fenerbahçe, captivating fans with his exceptional dribbling skills and creativity.

News

Iwobi Admits Struggling with New Nigerian National Anthem

Fulham and Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi has admitted that he is yet to learn the reintroduced Nigerian national anthem, Nigeria, We Hail Thee.

Iwobi made this revelation during a recent episode of the *Is This Seat Taken?* podcast, hosted by Nollywood actress Chinasa Anukam.

When asked if he had mastered the anthem, Iwobi responded candidly:

“No. When it comes on, I literally stand there and close my eyes.”

The anthem, originally written by Lillian Jean Williams in 1959 and composed by Frances Berda, was replaced by *Arise, O Compatriots* in 1978. However, it was reintroduced in May 2024 following President Bola Tinubu’s endorsement.

The decision sparked widespread debate, with figures such as activist Aisha Yesufu publicly opposing the return to *Nigeria, We Hail Thee*.

Despite the controversy, Iwobi’s openness underscores the adaptation challenges faced by many since the anthem’s reintroduction.