Local News
WAFU B U20 Cup: Flying Eagles Top Group A; Ghana To Semis
The Flying Eagles of Nigeria have emerged as Group A winners at the 2025 WAFU Zone B U20 Boys Cup after Ghana’s Black Satellites secured a narrow 1-0 victory over the Young Squirrels of the Benin Republic on Wednesday at the Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence in Prampram.
Despite finishing level on four points with Nigeria, Ghana fell short on goal difference.
Nigeria’s commanding 4-1 win over Benin in their opening match gave them the upper hand, while their 1-1 draw against Ghana proved crucial in securing the top spot.
Ghana’s qualification came in dramatic fashion. Reduced to 10 men after Kelvin Nkrumah received a second yellow card just before halftime, the Black Satellites showed resilience and composure.
Just seven minutes into the second half, Bless Ege netted the decisive goal, slotting home after a well-timed through pass from captain Aziz Misbau.
The win confirmed Ghana’s second-place finish in the group and a place in the semi-finals, where they are likely to face Group B leaders and defending champions, the Ivory Coast, in a high-stakes clash on Sunday.
Nigeria’s opponent will be the runner-up of Group B, which will be decided after the conclusion of the group’s final round of matches.
Both Nigeria and Ghana will now shift their focus to the knockout stages as they continue their quest for regional glory and a spot in the tournament final.
Sports247.ng
**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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