Cloned Nigerian Anchor

Tag: Super Eagles

  • AFCON 2025 Qualifiers: Group D leaders, Nigeria held to a goalless draw

    AFCON 2025 Qualifiers: Group D leaders, Nigeria held to a goalless draw

    Group D leader in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier Nigeria, was held to a goalless draw in Kigali on Tuesday, by Rwanda.

     

    The Super Eagles, however, will feel vindictive because in the first half, what appeared to be a real goal was disallowed after Ademola Lookman scored a Victor Boniface’s header, which the referee dismissed.

     

    Both teams’ goalkeepers produced excellent saves to keep the score at zero.

     

    Rwanda is in second place with two points, and Nigeria is leading Group D with four points.

  • Tinubu Rewards Super Eagles With National Awards, Flats, Lands

    Tinubu Rewards Super Eagles With National Awards, Flats, Lands

    President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday honoured the Super Eagles of Nigeria with the national award of Member of the Order of the Niger (MON), presenting them with flats in the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, and parcels of land. 

    The announcement was made during a reception for the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) delegation, led by the Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh, at the Council Chamber, Presidential Villa, Abuja. 

    The president praised the team, coach, crew, and management for their dedication and perseverance throughout the Africa Cup of Nations, where they secured the runner-up position. 

    Tinubu encouraged Nigerians to stay positive, highlighting the team’s remarkable journey and calling for unity and continued effort towards national success.

    “Let this passing event not dispirit us but bring us together to work harder. We are a great nation bound as one by the green-white-green banner of resilience, joy, hope, duty, and untiring love.

    “To those cherished Nigerian youths expressing their gifts in communities, drawing lines in the sand as they play football in their humble rectangles of play, you can be our heroes tomorrow, do not relent in your pursuit. My administration is here to make dreams come true,” the president said.

  • List Of of Nigerians Who Died Watching Super Eagles vs Bafana Bafana Semi-Final Clash

    List Of of Nigerians Who Died Watching Super Eagles vs Bafana Bafana Semi-Final Clash

    The thrilling Semi-final clash between the Super Eagles of Nigeria and the Bafana Bafana of South Africa in the ongoing AFCON tournament has left a sombre note for some football enthusiasts in Nigeria.

    Tragically, amidst the tension and excitement of the match, several Nigerians lost their lives while watching the game at various locations across the country. 

    Here are some of the notable incidents:

    1. Dr. Cairo Ojougboh:

     A former member of the House of Representatives representing the Ika Federal Constituency of Delta State, Dr. Cairo Ojougboh, passed away on Wednesday evening during the Nigeria vs. South Africa AFCON semifinals match.

    Dr. Ojougboh reportedly suffered a massive heart attack and slumped when South Africa scored a penalty against Nigeria.

    2. Alhaji Ayuba Abdullahi:

    The Deputy Bursar of Kwara State University Malete, Alhaji Ayuba Abdullahi, also succumbed during the semi-finals between Nigeria and South Africa.
        He complained of feeling dizzy and collapsed at home after watching the match, eventually passing away before receiving medical attention.

    3. NYSC Corps Member:

    A National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member serving in Adamawa State, identified as Samuel from Kaduna State, reportedly collapsed and died during the penalty shootout stage of the Nigeria vs. South Africa match.

    Samuel fainted just before the final kick, and despite efforts to rush him to the hospital, he was pronounced dead upon arrival.

    4. Mikail Osundiji:

    In Abeokuta, Ogun State, 43-year-old Mikail Osundiji tragically died while watching the semi-final match.
    Osundiji went into shock and collapsed after Nigeria’s second goal was cancelled by the referee, despite showing no signs of sickness prior to the incident.

    These heartbreaking incidents serve as a reminder of the unpredictability of life and the need for caution even during moments of excitement. 

    While football brings joy and unity, it’s essential to prioritize one’s health and well-being.

    As the Super Eagles advance to the final, Nigerians mourn the loss of these passionate fans and hope for victory in their honour. 

    Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and loved ones of the deceased during this difficult time. May their souls rest in peace.

  • Tinubu sends Shettima to Côte d’Ivoire to support Super Eagles against South Africa

    Tinubu sends Shettima to Côte d’Ivoire to support Super Eagles against South Africa

    Vice-President Kashim Shettima
    On Wednesday, Vice-President Kashim Shettima departed Abuja for Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, to lend President Bola Tinubu’s unwavering support to the Super Eagles of Nigeria.

    The spokesperson for the vice-president, Stanley Nkwocha, said this in a statement on Wednesday in Abuja.

    He said Mr Shettima’s trip to Côte d’Ivoire was at the instance of Mr Tinubu.

    The Super Eagles will take on South Africa in the semi-final of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

    The match will be played at the Stade de la Paix in Bouake, Côte d’Ivoire later this evening.

    According to Nkwocha, the visit will strengthen the deep-rooted connection between football and national identity in the country.

    Mr Nkwocha said the vice-president’s presence would inspire the Super Eagles on the pitch and serve as a rallying point for millions of Nigerians cheering from their homes.

    According to him, this year’s AFCON has seen the Super Eagles soar to new heights.

    “With a dominant performance in the group stages and a thrilling victory in the quarter-final, they have established themselves as strong contenders for the title.

    “With this being their 15th semi-final appearance, Nigeria holds the record for most appearances at this stage. They will be aiming to replicate their success in 2013 when they lifted the trophy in South Africa,” he said.

    He further said Mr Shettima’s visit to Côte d’Ivoire would serve as a powerful call for national unity and support.

    “As the Super Eagles prepare for their crucial semi-final match, Nigerians across the globe are urged to raise their voices and cheer their team. The entire nation stands behind the Super Eagles,” he said.

  • Nigerian-South Africa AFCON Semifinal: High Commission Urges Caution

    Nigerian-South Africa AFCON Semifinal: High Commission Urges Caution

    In anticipation of the Semifinal clash between Nigeria and South Africa at the on going African Cup of Nations (AFCON), the Nigerian High Commission in South Africa has issued a stern warning to Nigerians residing in the host country.

    The advisory, titled “Safety Advisory for Nigerians During 2024 AFCON Semifinal Match Between Super Eagles and Bafana Bafana,” emphasizes the need for Nigerians to exercise restraint and abide by the law before, during, and after the football match.

    Amid escalating tensions fueled by online provocations, the High Commission urged Nigerians to be vigilant of their surroundings and cautious of where they choose to watch the game, especially in public spaces. The warning comes in light of veiled threats circulating on social media directed towards Nigerians, including references to “Nigerians cooking jollof rice” and potential repercussions if the Super Eagles defeat the Bafana Bafana.

    Nigerians were advised to refrain from engaging in provocative behavior or loud celebrations should the Super Eagles emerge victorious. Instead, they were urged to maintain their reputation for good conduct and to report any instances of harassment or intimidation to the appropriate authorities.

    The Nigerian High Commission’s advisory underscores the importance of prioritizing safety and responsible behavior during this highly anticipated sporting event, urging Nigerians to support their team while remaining vigilant and law-abiding in the face of potential tensions.

  • AFCON ’24: FG Pledges Full support for Super Eagles

    AFCON ’24: FG Pledges Full support for Super Eagles

    The Federal Government has vowed to provide the necessary support for the Super Eagles of Nigeria to win the African Cup of Nations 2024 currently going on in Cote d’Ivoire.

    The leader of the Federal Government delegation and President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio dropped the hint while speaking via Zoom from Cote d’Ivoire to assure Nigerians that the Nigerian team has the support of the Government of the day to excel at the football competition.

    Akpabio who led top Government officials including National Assembly members to Cote d’Ivoire to cheer the Super Eagles to victory against the Palancas Negras of Angola at the quarter finals of the ongoing African Nations Cup, said sports is a unifying factor which must be harnessed for the benefit of the youths.

    According to Senator Akpabio, “I was very ecstatic at the stadium when the Super Eagles scored against Palancas Negras of Angola. The entire stadium exploded with the Nigerian supporters and those who love Nigeria.

    “Our presence here to support the Super Eagles is evidence of the fact that the Government is serious about sports and youth development and I’m very excited about the victory.

    “When I was the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, I gave the youths the best stadium in West Africa and under President Bola Tinubu, we shall replicate this in all parts of the country.

    “The Government of the day is very youth friendly and we are poised to create the enabling environment for the youths of Nigeria to realize their potentials. We are very determined to give opportunities to our youths to take them away from vices and I say congratulations to all Nigerians for this victory,” he said.

  • Kelechi Iheanacho Gears Up for Crucial Clash In AFCON Group Stage

    Kelechi Iheanacho Gears Up for Crucial Clash In AFCON Group Stage

    Leicester City’s forward, Kelechi Iheanacho, has declared his readiness for the Super Eagles’ upcoming 2023 AFCON group stage match against hosts Ivory Coast. 

    Despite arriving late to the camp due to fitness concerns, Iheanacho was spotted training with the team ahead of the clash scheduled for Thursday, January 18, at 6 p.m.

    Having sustained an injury while playing for Leicester in December, Iheanacho faced doubts about his participation in Ivory Coast. 

    Coach Jose Peseiro opted to bench him in the Eagles’ recent 1-1 draw with Equatorial Guinea on January 14.

    In an interview with reporters on Tuesday, Iheanacho emphasized his readiness to contribute to Nigeria’s success, stating, “I am feeling really good… I am 100% ready to serve the country.”

    Acknowledging the challenges, he added, “We want to go all the way in this AFCON, but we have to take it one game at a time. We just need to keep working hard and keep believing.”

    Looking ahead to the crucial clash against Ivory Coast, Iheanacho highlighted the need for thorough preparation, recognizing the strength of the host team. 

    “Going into the next game, we need to be ready to face the Ivorians. They are the hosts, and they are going to go out strong. So, we need to be well-prepared to face them.”

  • William Troost-Ekong Insists Super Eagles Can Still Do Well In 2023 AFCON

    William Troost-Ekong Insists Super Eagles Can Still Do Well In 2023 AFCON

    Super Eagles of Nigeria vice-captain, William Troost-Ekong is adamant that the players possess the proper mindset to do well in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

    William Troost-Ekong stated this following the Super Eagles’ abysmal performance in their opening game at the 2023 AFCON which ended in a 1-1 draw against lowly-rated Equatorial Guinea.

    During the game, Troost-Ekong and his teammates had to fight from a goal down to grab a 1-1 draw courtesy of a header from the team’s talisman, Victor Osimhen.

    This terrible start from the three-time winners of the tournament has raised fear in the minds of football enthusiasts ahead of their second group stage game which is against the hosts, Ivory Coast on Thursday.

    Hence, Jose Peseiro’s men are currently under pressure ahead of their clash with the hosts, who already lead Group A with three points after winning their opening game 2-0 against Guinea-Bissau.

    After the 1-1 draw on Sunday, the attitude of the players towards winning a fourth AFCON title was questioned, but Troost-Ekong said they were not unaware of the task ahead as he confirmed that the team had a meeting ahead of their next game.

    “We’ve spoken about this so much, we have Kenneth (Omeruo) and (Ahmed) Musa who have won the AFCON with us and they told us exactly how that journey was. Some of the guys like myself, who were there in 2019, also explained exactly how it was to get to the semi-final and take the bronze,” William Troost-Ekong said.

    “You know in football, it’s not always when you want something that you get it. The other teams too, you have to respect them as well.”

    As it stands, the Super Eagles must not be defeated when they face Ivory Coast on Thursday. A draw or a win will keep them comfortably in the competition.

    If they beat Ivory Coast, a draw against Guinea-Bissau on Monday will be enough to seal a place in the round of 16. But if they lose to Ivory Coast, they must beat Guinea-Bissau and hope that Ivory Coast beat Equatorial Guinea.

  • 2026 W/Cup Qualifier: Focused Super Eagles Unbothered By State Of Huye Stadium Pitch

    2026 W/Cup Qualifier: Focused Super Eagles Unbothered By State Of Huye Stadium Pitch

    Still stung by their loss of two points to Lesotho on home soil on Day 1 of their 10-match qualification series for the 2026 FIFA World Cup ticket, the Super Eagles took to the pitch of Huye Stadium, Butare on Saturday evening for the official training, and refused to be bothered about the state of the artificial turf which is close to threadbare.

    The venue will host Sunday’s Day 2 encounter between the Eagles and the Warriors of Zimbabwe, where another three precious points are at stake for the Eagles to roll their campaign back on track.

    Captain Kenneth Omeruo told thenff.com after Saturday’s training session at the venue which is 135 kilometres away from the Rwandan capital, Kigali. “We are on a redemption mission; a serious business is what we have come for. The pitch is poor but we can’t be bothered right now. We want to get into action and pick up three points.”

    South Africa’s 2-1 defeat of Benin Republic’s Cheetahs on Saturday means the Bafana Bafana are top of Group C temporarily, before Sunday’s encounter which is the first Day 2 match in the pool.

    The Eagles’ delegation flew into Kigali on Saturday morning, and then travelled two hours by road to Butare where they are camped at the Hotel Mater Boni Consilii. On arrival, the warm hosts handed the Nigeria team flowers, with wishes of good luck in Sunday’s encounter against the Warriors.

    Sunday’s match will start at 3pm Rwanda time (2pm Nigeria time), and will be superintended by Djiboutian official Souleiman Ahmed Djama, with his compatriots Liban Abdoulrazack Ahmed (assistant referee 1), Rachid Waiss Bouraleh (assistant referee 2) and Mohamed Diraneh Guedi (fourth official) also in action.

    Yohannes Ghirmai Ghebregziabher from Eritrea will serve as referee assessor and Raphael Lyson Humba from Malawi is the match commissioner.   

  • 2026 World Cup Qualifiers: Lesotho’s Crocodiles Hold Eagles In Uyo

    2026 World Cup Qualifiers: Lesotho’s Crocodiles Hold Eagles In Uyo

    The Super Eagles’ race to USA/Canada/Mexico 2026 commenced on Thursday with the three-time African champions held 1-1 at home in Uyo by the Crocodiles of Lesotho.

    Nigeria’s attacking line of stand-in captain Kelechi Iheanacho, Ademola Lookman, Taiwo Awoniyi and Victor Boniface threw stones and sticks at the opposition goal-area but an inspired goalkeeper Sekhoane Moerane, also the team captain, and his rearguard foiled all the attempts and frustrated spectators at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium.

    The home team could have fallen behind after 16 minutes when Tsepang Seeali fired point-blank at Francis Uzoho after a poor touch in the box by Alex Iwobi, playing uncharacteristically deep at the back, released the forward who saw his effort parried by Uzoho.

    At the other end, defender Jamilu Collins saw his close shot parried; Boniface headed over the sticks and Iheanacho saw a dipping shot from a 20-yard free-kick punched away by the magnificent Moerane.

    Awoniyi missed Nigeria’s best chance of the first period when dragging wide a pass by Boniface in the 36th minute, and Lookman watched in shock as his left-footed belter was parried away.

    In the second period, Iwobi saw his shot parried in the 52nd minute, and then three minutes later, the Crocodiles shot ahead when Uzoho failed to deal with the ball from a corner kick and Motlomelo Mkwanazi struck gold with a bullet header that sailed into the net.

    The Eagles stepped up a gear and Moerane had saved from Collins and Iheanacho watched his shot come back off the upright before Semi Ajayi nodded powerfully past the goal-tender from a corner kick by Iheanacho, for Nigeria’s leveller half-way into the second half.

    There were opportunities to hit the winner from promising free-kick positions, but it ended in a stalemate and both teams took a point each from the encounter ahead of the Day 2 clashes coming up this weekend.

    Nigeria will fly to the city of Butare in Rwanda to trade tackles with the Warriors of Zimbabwe at the Huye Stadium on Sunday.