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SSA Adeboye Lights Up National Youth Games Opening

SSA Adeboye Lights Up National Youth Games Opening

The curtain was lifted yesterday on the 9th National Youth Games, and in attendance was Hon. Adeyinka Adeboye, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Grassroots Sports Development, flanked by Senator Ned Nwoko and other distinguished guests.

Their presence underscored the event’s soaring potential to shape the future of Nigerian sports.

Bright, eager young athletes from all 36 states and the FCT paraded with pride and unity in the vibrant opening ceremony held at Stephen Keshi Stadium.

The air was charged with cultural performances, youthful energy, and the electric anticipation of competition across 37 sporting disciplines over the next two weeks.

“The National Youth Games is where champions are born, where unity is forged, and where dreams are given wings,” declared SSA Adeboye as he officially welcomed the athletes. “I am convinced that among you are future stars who will carry Nigeria’s flag high — on the continent and in the world.”

He commended Delta State for their unwavering commitment to youth sports development, calling Asaba the true “sports capital of Nigeria.” Adeboye also saluted the National Sports Commission for delivering a platform that aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda, saying:

“These Games are more than sporting contests—they are bridges to opportunity, discipline, and national pride. We will continue to invest in this youthful ambition.”

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented at the ceremony by his Special Adviser on Media and Public Communication, Hon. Sunday Dare, emphasized the Games’ role as a “veritable talent factory.”

Over 6,000 athletes under 15 are competing in this edition—proof of Nigeria’s expanding sporting talent pool .

With opening sparks now ignited, eyes turn to the track, courts, and rings across Asaba where tomorrow’s legends will emerge.

And with SSA Adeboye and national leaders cheering them on, the future of Nigerian sports looks brighter than ever.

Sports247.ng

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Ahmed Garba ‘Yaro Yaro’ Backs Super Eagles To Defeat DR Congo After Back-To-Back Goal Fest

Super Eagles players celebrating a goal during World Cup playoff match

Ahmed Garba ‘Yaro Yaro’ Backs Super Eagles To Defeat DR Congo After Back-To-Back Goal Fest

Former Super Eagles forward Ahmed Garba ‘Yaro Yaro’ is buzzing with confidence — and he believes Nigeria is now primed to take down DR Congo in Sunday’s CAF World Cup qualifiers final.

After the Super Eagles thrashed Benin Republic 4-1 and followed it up with another 4-1 demolition of Gabon, the goals are flowing again, and Yaro Yaro says that’s a sign of something special brewing.

Speaking with Footy Africa, the former Wikki Tourists striker admitted he was impressed not just by the scoreline, but by the hunger, chemistry and energy the team displayed.

“I cannot remember the last time we won two straight games with four goals,”
Yaro Yaro said.
“This is a good win and a good omen. The boys could have scored even more, but this is a great confidence booster.”

DR Congo Will Be Tough — But Nigeria Is Ready

The next hurdle is DR Congo, a side that shocked many by eliminating Cameroon. Yaro Yaro acknowledged that the Leopards will not be an easy opponent, especially with their physical style and organized play.

But he still believes Nigeria will rise to the occasion.

“Our next game against DR Congo will be difficult… but I like how the team is developing. The Super Eagles have got their confidence back, and I see them defeating DR Congo.”

With Victor Osimhen on fire, the midfield finding rhythm, and the defence stabilizing, momentum is finally swinging in Nigeria’s favour at the perfect time.

A New Wave Of Confidence For The Super Eagles

The recent turnaround under coach Eric Chelle has reminded fans of the attacking identity Nigeria used to be known for. After struggling earlier in the qualifiers, the Super Eagles now look sharper, deadlier, and more unified.

Eight goals in two matches?
That doesn’t happen by accident — and Yaro Yaro believes it’s the fuel the team needs to take one more big step.

If Nigeria can defeat DR Congo on Sunday, they’ll move one step closer to booking their spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

And judging by Yaro Yaro’s optimism, Nigerians might just witness another thrilling performance.

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Mario Lemina Reacts Emotionally As Gabon Crash Out Against Super Eagles

Mario Lemina Looking Frustrated During Gabon Vs Nigeria Match

Mario Lemina Reacts Emotionally As Gabon Crash Out Against Super Eagles

Thursday night was a tough one for Gabon, and no one felt it more deeply than Mario Lemina. The midfielder, who also plays alongside Victor Osimhen at Galatasaray, wore every emotion on his sleeve as Gabon fell 4–1 to the Super Eagles in the World Cup qualifying playoffs.

The match had started on a shaky note for the Panthers, with Akor Adams pouncing on a mistake from Gabon’s captain to give Nigeria the early lead. Still, Lemina kept pushing, kept fighting, and with just one minute left in the first half, he delivered Gabon’s brightest moment—an equaliser that momentarily reignited hope for a historic World Cup qualification.

But football can be cruel.

The second half swung sharply in Nigeria’s favour, with Victor Osimhen unleashing a deadly brace and Chidera Ejuke sealing the win with a composed finish. For Gabon, it was the end of a dream they had fought tirelessly to chase.

After the final whistle, Lemina turned to his X handle to pour out his frustration—and pride.

He admitted feeling a mix of rage, disappointment, and determination, acknowledging that the team had sworn to fight till the end but fell short. Still, he urged his teammates and fans to see the loss as a lesson, a stepping stone toward future success.

Now, Gabon will shift focus to the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, where they hope to bounce back stronger and more united.

Meanwhile, the Super Eagles move on to face DR Congo in the playoff final on Sunday, with Victor Osimhen looking unstoppable and Nigeria eyeing a path to next year’s intercontinental playoffs in Mexico.

But for Lemina, this moment will linger—an emotional reminder of how much the game means, and how deeply he believes in his nation.

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Shakirat Moshood Makes Final Three Nominees For 2025 CAF Young Player Of The Year (Women)

Shakirat Moshood celebrating during a Flamingos U-17 match

Nigeria continues to shine on the African football stage — and this time, it’s Flamingos captain Shakirat Moshood grabbing the spotlight.

The young forward has been named among the final three nominees for the 2025 CAF Young Player of the Year (Women) award, a major recognition of her sensational rise in African women’s football.

Joining her on the shortlist are:

  • Moha El Madani (Morocco)

  • Adji Ndiye (Senegal)

Moshood’s Brilliant Year In Review

Shakirat Moshood has had a standout year — the type of year that puts a teenager firmly on the continental football map.

She was one of Nigeria’s brightest performers at the 2025 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, where the Flamingos battled their way to the Round of 16 under coach Bankole Olowookere.

But her success didn’t end on the global stage.

The young star also played a big role in Bayelsa Queens’ NWFL title triumph earlier this year. In addition, she emerged top scorer at the WAFU B Women’s Champions League qualifiers in Côte d’Ivoire, proving she’s not just talented — she’s consistent.

This blend of leadership, goals, and maturity is what earned her a place among Africa’s elite young stars.

Nigeria’s Success Extends To The Super Falcons

Nigeria’s dominance wasn’t limited to youth level.
The Super Falcons also made the final three nominees for the Women’s National Team of the Year after winning their 10th WAFCON title in Morocco.

Their competitors for the crown are:

  • Morocco’s Atlas Lionesses

  • Ghana’s Black Queens

It’s clear: Nigerian women’s football is thriving across every level, from U-17 to the senior national team.

A Big Moment For Moshood — And A Bigger Future Ahead

Making the final three nominees is already a massive achievement, but Moshood’s trajectory suggests this is just the beginning.

With her skill, composure, and eye for goal, she is shaping up to become one of the future pillars of the Super Falcons.

Whether she wins the award or not, Nigeria has found a gem — and Africa is paying attention.

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