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The vice-president of the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, Shehu Dikko, has hailed head coach of the national team, Jose Peseiro, for his bold decision-making against South Africa.
The Super Eagles needed a penalty shoot-out to see off Bafana Bafana in the semi-final of the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations on Wednesday night.
Dikko, writing on his verified X page, said Peseiro trusted other players in his squad as the game went into its crucial phases.
He wrote: “Congratulations @JosePeseiro… Fantastic job and huge respect ✊….
“Only a fearless, deliberate, competent and confident coach will be bold to replaced his entire top three strikers and two central midfielders in Osimhen, Simon, Lookman, Iwobi, and Onyeka in a Semi-final do or die match ….. and even had the trust to send on his alternate central defender as the 6th substitute to go in for the Penalty kicks …. and all perfectly worked out very well and the positive results achieved…… WE BELIEVE.”
The talented goalkeeper for the Super Eagles of Nigeria, Stanley Nwabali, has emerged on the radar for some clubs in Saudi Arabia and France, as well as Kaizer Chiefs, a team in South Africa.
Naija News reports that Nwabali is currently the first-choice goalkeeper for South African club Chippa United, which plays in the Premier Soccer League (PSL).
However, the 27-year-old player has become highly sought after due to his exceptional performances at the ongoing 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Cote d’Ivoire.
According to reports, there is strong interest from Kaizer Chiefs to secure Nwabali’s services, as he has proven to be a valuable asset.
This demonstrates the Nigerian’s skill and reliability in the competitive league.
Naija News reports that Super Eagles head coach, Jose Peseiro, recognized Nwabali’s abilities and selected him as the number one goalkeeper for the AFCON tournament, surpassing Francis Uzoho.
This decision has paid off, as Nwabali has only conceded two goals in six matches, against Equatorial Guinea and South Africa.
Nwabali’s outstanding performances have given the Super Eagles a fighting chance in the continental competition, which they last triumphed in 2013.
Speaking on the latest interest, Nwabali’s agent, Mohammed Lawal, has now hinted at a big move for the player.
“There is interest in France and Saudi Arabia. There is no surprise because of his performance during the Afcon tournament in Ivory Coast,” SNL24 quoted Lawal saying.
“I have only seen [Kaizer Chiefs links] in newspapers. I cannot comment on anything regarding local interest, please speak to the chairman of the club.”
The CAF Technical Study Group (TSG) has released its initial assessment of the ongoing CAF Africa Cup of Nations Cote d’Ivoire 2023, affirming that the tournament has surpassed expectations on the field.
As the competition progresses into its thrilling final stages, 50 matches have been officially played, providing ample data for analysis by the team of experts comprising data analysts, technical directors, former footballers, and coaches.
Raul Chipenda, CAF’s Director of Technical and Development, expressed delight with the tournament’s quality, stating, “We are witnessing an exceptional competition. This AFCON stands out as the best in history across multiple aspects.”
Chipenda highlighted the significant reduction in the gap between perceived smaller and larger teams, emphasizing the tactical prowess of coaches and the disciplined approach adopted by teams in various formations. He noted that the tournament has exceeded expectations by showcasing the evolution of the African game.
AFCON: Nigeria’s Super Eagles soar to final after defeating feisty South Africa on penalties
The CAF Technical Study Group, comprised of seasoned football analysts from across the continent, brings a wealth of experience to the assessment process, having served the African football community in diverse technical capacities.
In his concluding remarks, Chipenda emphasized the importance of African nations’ continued investment in football development. He advocated for active involvement from all countries, stating that increased investment would strengthen African football and nurture the emergence of world-class players domestically, reducing reliance on foreign talent.
Popular Nigerian singer Timaya has taken to social media to issue a safety advisory to fellow Nigerians in South Africa following Nigeria’s victory over South Africa in the semi-finals of the AFCON football tournament.
The match, which ended with Nigeria securing a spot in the finals, seems to have sparked concerns regarding the safety of Nigerians in the host country.
Timaya, through his Twitter account, urged Nigerians in South Africa to “just day your day,” implying that they should remain indoors to avoid potential harm or clashes that could arise following the football match.
The tweet comes in the wake of heightened emotions surrounding the football match.
“If you’re a Nigerian and in SA tonight pls just DEY YOUR DEY!,” Timaya wrote.
Super Eagles captain, William Troost-Ekong has named Manchester United legend, Rio Ferdinand as one of the players he would give his No.5 jersey up for amid the ongoing 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
William Troost-Ekong said this in a post via his X account after Nigeria defeated South Africa on Wednesday to qualify for the AFCON final.
Recall that Troost-Ekong was exceptional as the Super Eagles beat the Bafana Bafana to set up a final clash with the host nation, Ivory Coast.
Ferdinand had in a show of support to the Super Eagles, posted several Nigerian flag on X and shared a picture holding the Super Eagles jersey with “Ferdinand 5” boldly written on it.
However, Troost-Ekong retweeted Ferdinand’s post and wrote: “One of the few players I would be willing to give my number up for! Legend!”
Troost-Ekong will hope to lead Jose Peseiro’s men to victory when they face Ivory Coast in the final.
[DailyPost]
Vice President Kashim Shettima met with the Super Eagles following their win over the Bafana Bafana of South Africa and promised that the Federal Government will reward them for their “commitment and dedication.”
The Super Eagles disclosed this in a statement and photos shared on their official X handle early Thursday.
The statement read, “The Federal Government has promised to reward the Super Eagles for their commitment and dedication in reaching the final of the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations in Cote d’Ivore.
“Vice President Kashim Shettima told the players and their officials in the dressing room, following their hard-fought victory over South Africa in the semi finals on Wednesday, that the government and people of Nigeria are proud of their accomplishment.
“The VP was in company with Governors Dapo Abiodun (Ogun) and Duoye Diri (Bayelsa), Minister for Youths, Dr. Jamila Ibrahim as well as oil mogul, Wale Tinubu, FIFA Council member, Amaju Pinnick, and NFF President, Ibrahim Musa Gusau.”
PUNCH Online reports that the Super Eagles of Nigeria advanced to the final of the tournament after beating Bafana Bafana of South Africa 4-2 on penalties.
Nigeria holds the record for the highest number of appearances at the AFCON semi-finals, having played 15 times.
[Punch]
The Super Eagles of Nigeria have beaten South Africa’s Bafana Bafana on penalties to reach the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2023 final.
The match finished 1-1 after extra time and the three-time champions will face hosts Ivory Coast or the Democratic Republic of Congo in the final on Sunday.
Stanley Nwabali was the hero of the night as he saved two penalty kicks.
Nigeria were hoping to make it into their fourth AFCON final but were made to work for it early in the first half as South Africa bossed early proceedings.
Substitute Kelechi Iheanacho scored to give Nigeria a 4-2 penalty shootout victory over South Africa on Wednesday after an Africa Cup of Nations semi-final thriller in Bouake.
‘Let’s get it done'” - Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala urges Super Eagles to soar in AFCON semi-final against South Africa
AdminRenowned Nigerian economist and Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has extended her well wishes to the Super Eagles, ahead of their semi-final match against South Africa in the ongoing African Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Okonjo-Iweala, the former Nigerian Minister of Finance, expressed her confidence in the team’s abilities and urged them to secure victory in the semi-finals to advance to the finals of the prestigious tournament.
The Nigerian national football team (Super Eagles) are set to face South Africa at Stade Bouaké in Bouaké, Ivory Coast.
Taking to her official Twitter page in a tweet posted on Tuesday, Okonjo-Iweala encouraged the Super Eagles.
Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala urges Super Eagles to soar in AFCON semi-final against South Africa
Super Eagles.
She wrote;
“Wishing our very own Super Eagles the best of luck tomorrow!! Let’s get it done.”
See below;
Wishing our very own Super Eagles the best of luck tomorrow!! Let’s get it done.
— Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala (@NOIweala) February 6, 2024
The Lagos State Government has set up a mega viewing centre at Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan for the Super Eagles of Nigeria and Bafana Bafana of South Africa match in the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations, AFCON, coming up later today, February, 7.
The state government has 25 viewing centres all over the state to encourage and ensure that residents enjoy the thrills and entertainment that the unifying game of football avails the teeming population both young and old.
The 2023 AFCON started on January 13, 2024 and Nigeria has not lost any match.
Onikan Stadium, Lagos (now Mobolaji Johnson Arena, the first stadium in Nigeria) is designated Mega Viewing Centre. The kick-off is 6pm.
Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, in a statement, said: “Lagos, being the sports capital and the base of the largest supporters of the Super Eagles, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, deemed it fit to provide an opportunity for all fans to watch the match.
“Mr. Governor expressed the hope that the national team will triumph in the match because the team has so far shown capacity and technical know-how to win.”
Nigeria has been crowned AFCON champions three times, finished second on four occasions and came third place eight times.
Apart from the Mega Viewing Centre at Onikan, other centres are located in: Agege Stadium, Abesan Sports Centre, Alimosho LGA Secretariat, Agbado-Oke Odo, Local Council Development Area, LCDA, Secretariat, L.A. Primary School, Layeni, Ajeromi-Ifelodun, Anglican Primary School, Aradagun, Badagry.
Other include: New Road Primary School, Ajegunle, Femi Gbajabiamila Mini Stadium, Coker-Aguda, Surulere, Epe Recreation Centre, Sprite Court, Festac, Igando-Ikotun LCDA Secretariat, Onisabe of Igbobi’s Palace, Jibowu, Alajede’s Palace, Ijede, Oba’s Palace, Ijegun, Ikorodu Town Hall, APC Party Secretariat, Ketu.
Also listed as viewing centres are: Campos Mini Stadium, Lagos, Lagos House Car Park, Marina, Mushin Public Library, YMD Garden, Ojo, Olera Football Pitch, Ojokoro Housing Estate, Afolabi Primary School, Oshodi, Papa Playing Field, Oworonsoki and Rowe Park Sports Centre, Yaba.
[Vanguard]
The executive committee of the Cameroon Football Federation has rejected the resignation letter of its FA president, Samuel Eto’o.
Samuel Eto’o, who has been the president of the Cameroon FA since December 11, 2021, wrote to the committee to announce his resignation after the country failed to progress beyond the round of 16 stage of the 2023 AFCON.
Recall that Cameroon managed to qualify for the round of 16 after beating Gambia 3-2 in their last group-stage game on January 23.
Unfortunately, they lost 2-0 to the Super Eagles of Nigeria in the round of 16, putting an unexpected end to their 2023 AFCON campaign.
Samuel Eto’o, who attended virtually each of the four games his country played at the tournament in Ivory Coast, decided to bow out of the FA for failing to help his country win their long-awaited 6th AFCON title.
While the FA president decided to resign, there was no report concerning the future of the national team head coach, Rigobert Song.
In reaction to Eto’o’s unexpected resignation, the executive committee of the Cameroon FA issued a statement on Monday, February 5, to insist that the committee won’t approve his resignation.
The statement reads: “At the end of discussions and subsequent deliberations, the members of the executive committee decided to maintain their current mandates and thus unanimously rejected the president’s resignation thereby renewing their confidence in him to continue with the same spirit of reconstruction and development of Cameroon football at all levels as envisaged in his plan adopted by the elective general assembly of December 11, 2021.”
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Super Eagles striker, Victor Osimhen has been reportedly cleared by the team’s medical doctor for the clash against South Africa.
Recall Osimhen missed the Super Eagles trip to Bouake – the venue of the semi-final clash with South Africa – after suffering abdominal discomfort.
It was said that the Napoli striker will be examined on Tuesday morning, and if cleared, will join the rest of the squad who have arrived safely in Bouake.
According to sources in Abidjan, Osimhen is on his way to Bouake after being declared fit by the medical team.
The 25-year-old has started in all of Super Eagles’ five matches in Cote d’Ivoire, scoring one goal and chalking up one assist.
The Confederation of African Football has appointed Egyptian official Amin Mohamed Omar as the referee for Wednesday’s Africa Cup of Nations semi-final encounter between Nigeria’s Super Eagles and the Bafana Bafana of South Africa.
The match, which will commence at 5 pm Cote d’Ivoire time (6 pm in Nigeria), will see Omar’s compatriots, Mahmoud Kamel Abouelregal and Ahmed Hossam Ibrahim, playing the roles of assistant referee 1 and assistant referee 2, respectively, while Sudanese Mahmood Ali Ismail will serve as the fourth official.
Attia Essa Amsaaed from Libya will be the reserve assistant referee, with Yacoub Ali Elmi from Djibouti as commissioner and Aboubacar Doumbouya from Guinea as the referee assessor.
Three-time champions Nigeria and 1996 champions South Africa will face off in their second-ever Africa Cup of Nations semi-final clash at the Stade de la Paix. Their only previous meeting at the same stage, at the National Stadium in Lagos when Nigeria co-hosted the 2000 finals with Ghana, ended 2-0 in favour of Nigeria.
Wednesday’s clash is being billed as the more potentially explosive of the two semi-finals (hosts Cote d’Ivoire are up against the Democratic Republic of Congo), given the pedigree, rivalry, and ambition of the two teams.
South Africa has only beaten Nigeria twice in 14 previous meetings at full senior level, though Nigeria edged an African Nations Championship clash by beating the hosts 3-1 in Cape Town in 2014.
The Eagles are presently ranked 42nd in the world by FIFA (6th in Africa), while the Bafana Bafana are 66th in the world (12th in Africa).
Four years ago, both teams met at the quarter-final stage, with the Super Eagles edging the encounter at the Cairo International Stadium 2-1, the goals coming from Samuel Chukwueze and William Ekong. Both players are in the present squad and likely to be part of Wednesday’s battle.
[Leadership]
AFCON 2023: Nigerian High Commission warns South Africa-based citizens ahead of semi-final clash
AdminTHE Nigerian High Commission in South Africa has purportedly warned Super Eagles fans to stay safe following threats of xenophobia regarding the AFCON 2023 Africa Cup of Nations semi-final fixture against Bafana Bafana.
There is a history of xenophobic attacks on Nigerians living in South Africa and the upcoming match has caused some tension, with some South Africans threatening to pounce again.
An advisory note circulating online with the Nigerian High Commission letterhead has told Nigerians to mind how they celebrate if the Super Eagles win tomorrow’s encounter in Bouake, Cote d’Ivoire.
“The attention of the Nigeria High Commission Pretoria has been drawn to potentially inflammatory online comments made by a section of South African citizens against Nigerians living in host country, largely influenced by the upcoming 2024 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) semi-final match between the Super Eagles and the Bafana Bafana on Wednesday 7th February 2024,” the statement reads in part.
“Most of the comments consist of veiled threats against “Nigerians cooking jollof rice” before the match, and “showing pepper to Nigerians if Bafana Bafana lose to the Super Eagles”, among others.
“In this regard, the High Commission hereby advises the Nigerian community to be watchful of their utterances, be mindful of where they choose to watch the match especially in public places, and refrain from engaging in loud. riotous or provocative celebrations should the Super Eagles win the match.
“Additionally, Nigerians should maintain the good conduct they are known for, and be law abiding before, during and after the match. Should any provocations arise, they should not be reciprocated but reported to the appropriate authorities.”
Nigerians have been engaging in online banter with Ghanaians, Cameroonians and Angolans since AFCON 2023 began over three weeks ago, and this is the first time there have been threats of physical violence from any set of fans.
[NaijaTImes]
Super Eagles striker, Victor Osimhen, is likely to miss the semi-final clash against South Africa.
Nigeria will take on South Africa by 6pm on Wednesday in the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations.
In a statement late Monday, Babafemi Raji, media officer of the Nigerian team, said the striker is suffering from abdominal discomfort.
He disclosed that Osimhen did not travel with the team to Bouaké, the city hosting the semi-final clash.
Osimhen toasts ‘statement’ win for Nigeria
“Members of the team traveled from Abidjan to Bouaké today via a 10 pm Air Cote D’Ivoire flight. Osimhen did not however make the trip as a result of an abdominal discomfort. Team medics confirmed that he has been placed under close watch with a member of the medical team staying behind in Abidjan with him. If cleared by tomorrow morning, he will join the rest of the squad before 5 pm,” the statement read.
Many Nigerians were really looking forward to Osimhen in action when Nigeria take on the rival nation.
While ruing the loss of five Nigerian stars to a South African at the Grammy Awards, music star Teni, had specifically mentioned Osimhen among those whom she wanted to seek revenge in the match.
Daily Trust had reported how Nigerian quintet; Burna Boy, Ayra Starr, Davido, Asake and Olamide were snubbed at the 66th Grammys on Sunday.
Tyla, the only non-Nigerian nominee in the maiden Best African Music Performance category, was given the award.
Reacting in a video shared via Instagram, Teni pleaded with the Super Eagles players to avenge the Grammy loss of their compatriots by defeating South Africa in the semifinal clash in Cote D’Ivoire.
]“Grammy there’s a problem. We have many parties. You have killed our groove. South Africa, Tyla’s ‘Water.’ Alright. Osimhen, over to you. Lookman, over to you. South Africa, you will dance Amapiano after your AFCON defeat. You killed my groove. Grammy why?,” she said in a mixture of Yoruba and English.
[DailyTrust]