AFCON 2023 – Soccernet.ng

“The World Cup is achievable” – NFF President assures Nigerians of a prosperous footballing outing next year

Adefolahan Guerreiro — Mon, 30 Dec 2024 19:09:05 +0000

President of the Nigeria Football Federation, Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau, has promised the country’s populace will enjoy top-tier action from the national teams across several tournaments next year, Soccernet.ng reports.

The 60-year-old has been the man in charge of Nigeria’s football since 2022, and the nation’s football has blossomed under him. His tenure has seen the Super Falcons return to the Olympics while the Super Eagles reached the final of the AFCON tournament in Ivory Coast.

Alhaji Gusau, ahead of the new year, has assured Nigerians of a worthy outing in the competitions the nation will be involved in, citing they’d be giving their all.

“The era of Nigerian teams arriving at major championships just to participate is gone. Our objective now is to ensure that our teams can strongly contend for honours anywhere, and that can only be done by preparing the teams well ahead of qualifiers and competitions. I personally insisted that the Super Eagles B start their camping early enough and the result is what we can see in their display against Ghana. The team has just one month to go before the CHAN tournament. That means they must go into camp immediately, and we will ensure that,” the NFF President said in quotes revealed by Complete Sports.

The Super Eagles B in action against Ghana at the Accra Stadium as both sides attempt to qualify for the CHAN 2024 tournament. [Photo Credit/ X].

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“Our commitment is to see how we can cobble back that Super Eagles squad that did the nation proud at the AFCON in Cote d’Ivoire, coming within 23 minutes of lifting the trophy.

If we can find a way to do that, we can be sure that the target of winning the six remaining matches in the qualifiers to gain automatic qualification to the World Cup is achievable. Getting that FIFA World Cup ticket will set the momentum for a sterling outing at the AFCON in Morocco later in the year,” Alhaji Gusau concluded.

Wiliam Troost-Ekong alongside CAF President, Patrice Motsepe at the AFCON 2023 final. [Photo credit/ X].

The President also confirmed he’ll be organizing more friendlies for the Super Falcons in a bid to blend the older team and the younger generation.

“We are in the process of organizing more friendly games for the team, to properly blend the old and new players into a formidable squad that will conquer Africa in style. For sure, it is a very busy year for us and for world football. The NFF is committed to working closely with the National Sports Commission to realize our goals and objectives, and also seek greater corporate support for our activities, programs and events.”

Nigeria kick off their 2025 with the CHAN 2024 tournament which starts on the 1st of February.

What Hakimi’s mother said after her son lost the CAF POTY Award to Lookman

Adefolahan Guerreiro — Sun, 22 Dec 2024 18:06:20 +0000

Achraf Hakimi’s mother, Saida Mouh, has revealed her son has moved on from the disappointment of losing the 2024 CAF Player of the Year Award to Ademola Lookman, Soccernet.ng reports.

Hakimi was nominated for the prestigious award alongside Ronwen Hayden-Williams, Simon Adingra, Sehrou Guirassy and the eventual winner, Ademola Lookman.

The former Real Madrid defender won the French Ligue 1 with PSG, and took the Moroccan U-23 team to a third-place finish at the Paris 2024 Olympics tournament, and believed he had a worthy stake in bringing the award home.

Atalanta’s Ademola Lookman took the trophy home after a stellar season for club and country that saw him win the UEFA Europa League, and lead the Super Eagles of Nigeria to a place in the AFCON 2023 final.

Speaking after the tournament, Hakimi’s mother believed her son was so sure he would come home with the award, and she quickly travelled from Turkey to Marrakesh to celebrate the beautiful occasion with the former Borussia Dortmund man.

“My son requested I to come to Marrakesh as a matter of urgency to attend the handover of the African Ballon d’Or. He spoke with so much certainty. He was the winner. Perhaps he had been informed before the event, but in the end, the trophy went to Ademola Lookman,” Saida told Al-Araby in quotes revealed by Fennec Football.

Achraf Hakimi alongside his mother and brother at the 2024 CAF Awards in Morocco. [Photo Credit/ X].

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Regarding the impact of this defeat on her son, Saida revealed her son is very mature and has since moved on from the disappointment. She reveals he feels loved by the Moroccan and Arab fans, and that is more than enough.

“My son has quickly forgotten this defeat after leaving the room to join his team, Paris Saint-Germain. He knows that love between Moroccan and Arab fans are worth far more than anything. What price? It’s not easy to be loved by everyone, and Achraf believes firmly in fate and the will of God.

If he has not won the African Ballon d’Or this year, he will probably win it in the years to come. He’s still young, with a lot of talent to offer. Morocco also has important challenges to come, like the 2025 African Cup of Nations and the 2026 FIFA World Cup,” she concluded.

Paris Saint-Germain are currently top of the French Ligue 1, giving Hakimi a strong shout for the 2025 CAF POTY Award. However, it’ll most likely go down to the wire as Mohammed Salah, Ademola Lookman, and Victor Osimhen all have their clubs atop their respective leagues at the moment.

“It’s time to say this on the big stage”- One-cap Super Eagles defender eyes AFCON 2025 victory in Morocco

Adefolahan Guerreiro — Sat, 21 Dec 2024 15:35:26 +0000

Super Eagles and AJ Auxerre central defender, Gabriel Adedayo Osho, has backed the Nigerian National team to clinch their fourth AFCON title in Morocco next year, Soccernet.ng reports.

The 26-year-old was born in England to Nigerian parents and had his first invitation to the Super Eagles in March during Finidi George’s time as interim manager of the team. Osho had to decline the invitation due to an injury but eventually made his debut for the three-time AFCON Champions against Benin Republic last month.

The former Luton Town man has had a decent start to life in Ligue 1 with his club side currently 15th in the French top flight. He’s also been involved on the offensive end of things as he scored a goal in Auxerre’s draw against RC Lens.

RECORD DATE NOT STATED Auxerre Gabriel Osho Football : Auxerre vs Reims – Ligue 1 – 20/10/2024 StephanieGrossetete/Panoramic PUBLICATIONxNOTxINxFRAxBEL. [Photo Credit/ Imago].

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After making his debut for the Super Eagles, Osho wants to help the Nigerian team go one better than they did at the AFCON 2023 tournament in Ivory Coast.

“It was special to play for Nigeria. I didn’t really know the feeling of playing international football. It was the first time I had this sense of play at this level. It was full of emotion and pride for me and my family. In the first few days, I tried to get used to everything, because I sometimes find it a little strange to talk to people I don’t know, but everyone was very welcoming.

I even had friends in common with some players who were already playing in England, such as Ola Aina, Calvin Bassey and Alex Iwobi. Everyone was really very friendly, and as the course progressed, I became familiar with everyone.

We now need to focus on the World Cup qualifiers as well as the AFCON 2025. After the last competition, our goal is to progress and triumph. I think we have enough talent. The quality of our team is probably the best in Africa. It is time to say this on the big stage,” the former Reading man said in quotes revealed by Les News.

The AFCON 2025 tournament will be held in Morocco from 21st December, 2025 to 18th January, 2026 and will feature 32 African teams.

“It’s woven into our culture” – Wilfred Ndidi reveals the effects of Football on the Nigerian populace

Adefolahan Guerreiro — Sat, 21 Dec 2024 13:19:14 +0000

Leicester City and Super Eagles midfielder, Wilfred Onyinye Ndidi, has spoken on the fooball culture in Nigeria, highlighting the sport is a catalyst for several things beyond the pitch, Soccernet.ng reports.

The 28-year-old versatile midfielder started his career with Ekosodin Stars in Lagos. He played for a host of local clubs in Nigeria before heading abroad in January 2015, signing for Belgian side, KRC Genk for a fee of €180,000.

Since then, Ndidi has metamorphosed into a household name back home. He’s done well for himself, with his most successful spell coming with his current side, Leicester City, where he’s won the FA Cup, FA Community Shield and the EFL Championship.

RECORD DATE NOT STATED UYO, NIGERIA – SEPTEMBER 06: Victor Osimhen and Wilfred Ndidi of Nigeria during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations AFCON qualifier match between Nigeria and Benin Republic at Godwill Akpabio Stadium on September 6, 2024 in Uyo, Nigeria. Photo by Victor Ihechi Copyright: [Photo Credit/ Imago].

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Reflecting on his journey in the By Way of Africa interview with NBC, Ndidi revealed how football in Nigeria goes beyond a sport on green grass. He admitted the beautiful game turns youth away from street vices and keeps the country united amidst several geo-political crises.

“Football is a lifestyle, a potent source of joy and passion, and for many, it provides an escape. Football truly brings the nation together. No one cares about your background or tribe; it’s about the shared love for the game. The experience of gathering to watch football is unparalleled. Take, for instance, a World Cup match coinciding with an election; people would choose to watch football over everything else.

It’s woven into our culture. Every child aspires to play. As Patson Daka aptly put it, football helps steer people away from undesirable activities. Football isn’t just huge; it embodies the spirit of Nigeria, alongside the overwhelming support we receive,” the AFCON 2019 Bronze medallist said.

When quizzed about what it feels like to wear the Green and White colours of the Super Eagles, Ndidi added that he doesn’t take for granted the opportunity to have the entire nation on his shoulders.

“It’s a massive privilege. Representing a nation of over 200 million people is an honour that I will never take for granted. I feel a rush of emotions every time we sing the national anthem. The intensity of the moment is indescribable, reminding me of how the community would react with reverence as the anthem played during my childhood.”

RECORD DATE NOT STATED UYO, NIGERIA – OCTOBER 11: Wilfred Ndidi of Nigeria and Libya defenders during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations AFCON qualifier match between Nigeria and Libya at Godwill Akpabio Stadium on October 11, 2024 in Uyo, Nigeria. Photo by Victor Ihechi. Copyright: [Photo Credit/ Imago].

Ndidi is currently nursing a hamstring injury that’ll most likely keep him out of action till next year, meaning he’ll be unavailable when the Foxes take on Wolverhampton Wanderers tomorrow afternoon.

Former Super Eagles defender questions Troost-Ekong’s omission from CAF Team of the Year

Adefolahan Guerreiro — Wed, 18 Dec 2024 18:29:14 +0000

Former Nigeria and West Bromwich Albion left-back, Ifeanyi Udeze, has questioned the omission of Super Eagles captain, William Troost-Ekong, from the 2024 CAF Team of the Year, Soccernet.ng reports.

The Al-Kholood centre-back overturned a disagreement with Jose Peseiro to turn his career with the Nigerian National team around, and captained the Super Eagles to the AFCON 2023 final, scoring three goals alongside, the joint-most in the team.

Following his impressive performance in Ivory Coast, the former Udinese man was given the MVP award at the AFCON 2023 tournament. For PAOK Thessaloniki, Ekong won the Greek Super League before moving to Saudi Arabia.

As CAF unveiled their best eleven during the 2024 CAF Awards in Morocco, the list featured two Nigerians in Victor Osimhen and the eventual player of the year, Ademola Lookman. The back three was completed by Achraf Hakimi, Kalidou Koulibaly, and Chancel Mbemba.

ABIDJAN, COTE D IVOIRE – JANUARY 27 William Troost Ekong of Nigeria and Frank Magri of Cameroon during the TotalEnergies Caf Africa Cup of Nations Afcon 2023 match between Nigeria and Cameroon at Stade Felix Houphouet-Boigny on January 27, 2024 in Abidjan, Cote d Ivoire. Photo by Didier Lefa Copyright: xDidierxLefax. [Photo credit/ Imago]

Ekong’s exclusion sparked interesting conversations in the Nigerian media, and Ifeanyi Udeze weighed his thoughts in, questioning why the best player at the AFCON tournament didn’t make the Continents team of the year.

“Troost Ekong is the AFCON MVP, why isn’t he on the Africa best XI? He doesn’t need a vote, his place should be automatic,” the one-time Greek winner said on No Holds Barred with Brila.

While Troost-Ekong didn’t make any statement about his omission, he openly congratulated Ademola Lookman for winning the Player of the Year Award, claiming it was well deserved by the Atalanta forward.

“It’s amazing” – Everything Ademola Lookman said after clinching the CAF Player of the Year Award

Adefolahan Guerreiro — Wed, 18 Dec 2024 09:50:19 +0000

Super Eagles and Atalanta forward, Ademola Olajade Lookman, was overjoyed after winning the 2024 CAF Player of the Year award, Soccernet.ng reports.

The 27-year-old versatile forward has had a brilliant run in 2024 for club and country and capped it off with a huge win in Morocco after he was placed 14th in the Ballon d’Or rankings.

The former RB Leipzig man switched International allegiance from England to Nigeria in 2022 just before he moved to Atalanta, and it’s been all the way up since then.

Speaking after joining a long list of legends who have won the CAF POTY on Monday night, Lookman shared his elation with the fans and expressed his gratitude for their unending support.

“I have no words really. It’s amazing because I was able to do it with all the love and all the support of you guys back home and obviously we’re here now today.

Nigeria has been a big turning point in my career. I say that all the time playing for our nation and having the support has been incredible. This year has been a special year and a lot of progress has been made and I’m happy with it, so, bring on the next challenges. A lot of thanks to the fans, their love does not go unnoticed,” the former Everton man told Livescore.

Ademola Lookman with the CAF Player of the Year Award alongside CAF President – Patrice Motsepe, and FIFA President – Gianni Infantino. [Photo credit/ X]

“It is special to be able to join a list of players who have achieved a lot in the game, Legends. It’s also not just me, we have a lot of talent, not just in the men’s game but also in the women’s game. For us to be able to give motivation to the young kids, we want to do better because if we can set good examples, then they’ll have solid footsteps to follow and walk into,” the Atalanta forward concluded.

Lookman could add more success to his catalogue at the end of the season if Atalanta maintain their pace as they’re currently at the apex of the Serie A.

Not Boniface or Lookman: Man United approach Nigerian star as Rashford’s future uncertain

Ayomide Oguntimehin — Tue, 17 Dec 2024 21:23:02 +0000

Thirteen-time English Premier League champions Manchester United have reportedly approached Super Eagles forward Victor Osimhen, with Marcus Rashford’s future at the club now uncertain, Soccernet.ng reports.

Rashford has struggled for form this season, losing his place in the starting XI. His underwhelming performances have fuelled speculation that the academy graduate, who has been with Manchester United since 2005, could finally leave the club.

According to reports from SportsMole, citing CaughtOffside, the Red Devils have identified Osimhen as a priority target and have approached the Nigerian forward over a potential move.

241126 Viktor Gyökeres of Sporting Lisbon during the Champions League football match between Sporting Lisbon and Arsenal [Photo Credit/ Imago]

Meanwhile, Manchester United have also been linked with Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyökeres, who previously worked under current United manager Ruben Amorim. However, Gyökeres remains contracted to the Portuguese club until 2028, which makes his move less likely.

Castel di Sangro, ITALY: Victor Osimhen of SSC Napoli during the pre-season training session in Castel di Sangro, Italy. Copyright: xFOTOAGENZIAx

For Osimhen, a return to Napoli after his season-long loan at Galatasaray appears unlikely. Rashford’s potential departure would free up a significant portion of United’s wage bill, given his status as one of the club’s highest earners.

Osimhen’s ability to thrive in a 3-4-3 system, a formation he excelled in under Jose Peseiro during Nigeria’s impressive run to the final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, makes him a strong fit for Amorim’s tactical setup.

Although there has been no official statement from any of the parties involved, Rashford’s departure would necessitate United signing a quality replacement.

What Ademola Lookman’s father said after Atalanta star won the CAF Player of the Year Award

Adefolahan Guerreiro — Tue, 17 Dec 2024 20:20:42 +0000

Father of Super Eagles and Atalanta forward, Ademola Lookman, could not withhold his ecstasy after his son was crowned the African Player of the Year in Morocco yesterday, Soccernet.ng reports.

The 27-year-old had a stellar season with club and country, leading the Super Eagles to the AFCON 2023 final, and Atalanta to the UEFA Europa League triumph.

His success on all fronts saw him placed 14th in the Ballon d’Or rankings, and last night, he was crowned the African Player of the Year, which was a proud moment for Nigeria and her citizens at large.

Ademola Lookman and his father at the Ballon d’Or awards [Photo credit/ X]

Lookman’s father, seeing his son crowned as the best father on the continent, was filled with immense pride and praise for his son.

“I’m so proud of him because he’s a very committed player. He’s very humble and doesn’t like too much publicity because he really wants to focus on his football and that is what has taken him to this level. So, I’m so proud of him and I’m happy as a father,” he said in an interview with Calister Ojonugwa.

https://twitter.com/PoojaMedia/status/1868987226182631655

Ademola’s father also sent a message of gratitude to Nigerians for their unending love and support, urging the younger generation to live out their dreams.

“I just want to thank them. I want to thank everybody for their support, their prayers and comments. I also want to thank Almighty God. I also want to tell the younger ones who are coming up to please, and focus on their things and their dreams, and they will get there,” he concluded.

Despite his success, Lookman has eyes on the next big thing, as his club side, Atalanta, are currently top of the Italian Serie A.

Two Premier League sides set to hold talks with Atalanta for Lookman

Adefolahan Guerreiro — Tue, 17 Dec 2024 11:02:20 +0000

Two English Premier League giants, Manchester United and Liverpool, are set to open talks with Nigeria and Atalanta forward, Ademola Lookman, Soccernet.ng reports.

The 27-year-old has capped off a brilliant year by winning the CAF Player of the Year award last night in Morocco. He led Nigeria to the AFCON 2023 final and scored a hat-trick in the UEFA Europa League final to win Atalanta’s maiden European silverware.

Ademola Lookman with the CAF Player of the Year Award alongside CAF President – Patrice Motsepe and FIFA President – Gianni Infantino.

In the past two years, the former RB Leipzig forward has established himself as one of the best attackers in the Italian Serie A, scoring 32 goals and providing 20 assists in 75 league games for La Dea.

As per Sky Sport CH, Liverpool and Manchester United have contacted Lookman’s agents ahead of a summer move to the English Premier League.

Lookman’s contract with Atalanta runs till the summer of 2026, with the club holding the option to extend the deal for another year. However, according to the report, the 2024 UEFA Europa League winners are prepared to negotiate the Nigerian’s departure.

Lookman celebrating with his teammates after scoring two against Napoli at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona.

With just over a year left on his contract with Atalanta, London-born Lookman is keen to return to England, but his preferred destination is currently unknown.

Marcus Rashford has been put up for sale by Manchester United as they prepare to tailor their squad to Ruben Amorim’s needs. With the Portuguese tactician preferring to play a 3-4-2-1 or 3-4-3, Lookman would be a perfect fit as he can play down the flank or through the middle.

On the flip side, Liverpool are currently stacked on the left flank, but Lookman could be an option in the middle of the Merseysiders’ attack as Darwin Núñez has failed to live up to the billing of Arne Slot’s side.

As per Caught Offside, Atalanta value the former Leicester City winger at around £50 million, and will be demanding a fee in that range from Lookman’s suitors.

United have a slight advantage over Liverpool in Lookman’s pursuit, as they’ve done good business with Atalanta in the past, with the Red Devils landing Rasmus Højlund and Amad Diallo from the Italian side.

“A source of pride and satisfaction” – Moroccan defender eyes CAF Player of the Year award over Lookman

Adefolahan Guerreiro — Wed, 27 Nov 2024 09:34:27 +0000

Morocco and Paris Saint-Germain full-back, Achraf Hakimi, has backed himself to win the CAF Player of the Year award over Ademola Lookman, Soccernet.ng reports.

The 26-year-old defender has experienced success with every club he’s played for, from his academy days, winning the UEFA Champions League and UEFA Super Cup with Real Madrid, the DFL Super Cup with Borussia Dortmund, the Serie A with Inter Milan alongside multiple trophies with PSG.

Hakimi, alongside Nigeria and Atalanta’s Ademola Lookman, Serhou Guirassy, Simon Adingra, and Ronwen Hayden-Williams made the final five CAF Player of the Year nominees shortlist.

The former Real Madrid man revealed that even if he doesn’t win the Player of the Year award, the nomination is enough inspiration to spur him to aim higher in the future.

“It’s a source of pride and satisfaction, especially knowing that the work I’ve been doing for a long time will be rewarded with this nomination. It’s true that it’s an important trophy on an individual level, but I’m happy to be here,

I hope I can win it, but if not, I’m happy to be here, and it makes me want to keep working,” he told Brut via maliactu.net.

The winner of the CAF Player of the Year award will be known on Monday, December 16th when the Awards Ceremony will be hosted in Marrakech, Morocco.

In the past year, Hakimi has won the French Ligue 1, Coupe de la Ligue, and the French Super Cup trophies, whilst sealing a bronze medal for Morocco in the men’s Olympic football competition.