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Ahead 10th Nigeria Pitch Awards Ceremony: Organisers to Unveil Nominees on Thursday in Lagos
Organizers of the prestigious Nigeria Pitch Awards are set to unveil the nominees for the 10th edition of the awards at a press conference scheduled to take place on Thursday 29th February 2024 in Lagos.
Mr. Shina Philips, President of the Nigeria Pitch Awards, made this known in a statement released to the press in Lagos. He stated that after the votes were collated by SIAO Partners, it was customary to have a gathering of sports editors and journalists where the names of those shortlisted for the awards would be released.
‘Voting for the 10th edition of the Nigeria Pitch Awards was done by Sports Editors and journalists across the 36 states of Nigeria and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. As in previous editions, we have been guided by our core values of integrity, transparency and credibility. SIAO Partners who have been responsible for the collation and audit of the results since 2014, have remained consistent, thorough and professional throughout the process.’
Speaking further, he said ‘the voting process for the 10th edition began on 11th December 2023 and continued to the 18th January 2024. We are grateful to all our voters across Nigeria who voted to ensure that the Nigeria Pitch Awards will continue to honour Nigeria’s best in football and encourage excellence in sports.’
Since its maiden edition in 2013 in Calabar, the Nigeria Pitch Awards has set and continued to maintain a high standard for measuring individual and team achievements in football in Nigeria. The awards which have earned the bragging rights as Nigeria’s longest running football awards is also one of the few audited awards in the country. The impeccable voting process adopted by organizers meets the standard practice adopted by the best award systems in the world.
The award platform has recognized and honoured some of Nigeria’s biggest names in the round leather game. Among past winners are the late Super Eagles Skipper and Gaffer, Stephen Okechukwu Keshi, John Obi Mikel, Ahmed Musa, Emmanuel Emenike, Odion Ighalo, Pepertua Nkwocha, Asisat Oshoala, Vincent Enyeama, William Troost-Ekong, Kenneth Omeruo and others.
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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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