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Federation Cup: GTI Thumbs Up NFF organisational Prowess, Lauds Clubs
Strategic partners to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) on the President Federation Cup (PFC), GTI Asset Management and Trust Limited, has commended the high level of organisational prowess exhibited by the nation’s football-ruling body and the quality of competitiveness among clubs featuring in the ongoing 2024/2025 PFC competition.
According to GTI Head of Media and Publicity, Andrew Ekejiuba in Lagos on Friday, he commended all the clubs that registered for this year’s competition for exhibiting high level of discipline as the state finals are expected to be concluded this weekend. The contending teams are encouraged to uphold the spirit of Fair play.
“As it has been the tradition in the past, some of the big teams in this year’s edition have succumbed to the fire-power of the so-called minnows. In Abia State, a non-league club, Ahudiya Nnem FC, dumped out Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) club, Abia Warriors from this year’s edition. The Abiriba-based amateur side defeated Abia Warriors, last year’s national finalists 3-1 on penalties after the match ended one goal apiece in the regulation time in the semi-final decided at the Umuahia Township Stadium last week.
“Therefore, with the state finals slated for this weekend, fans are expected to look out for more surprises,” Ekejiuba said. “The PFC (formerly Federation Cup) is the oldest domestic football competition in Nigeria and GTI Group is committed to improving Nigerian football at all levels. We will continue to energise the competition as strategic partners to NFF and also make the competition more attractive.”
Meanwhile some finalists have emerged in the men and women categories for the PFC state finals to be decided this weekend. In Cross River State, Rovers United will be battling E World FC in the men’s final slated for E. J Esuene Stadium Calabar by 3pm on Saturday, while in Sokoto State, Sokoto United will square up against Sokoto North FC also in the men’s final on Sunday at Giginya Memorial Stadium Sokoto by 4pm.
From Rivers State, Rivers United will lock horns with Willbros FC in the men’s final game, while defending champions Rivers Angels will tackle Sporting Angels FC in the women’s final. Both matches will be played at Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium, Port Harcourt on Saturday, February 22, 2025.
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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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