Category - Nigeria

Nigeria

Gianni Infantino Praises Africa: “Our best players are now among the best in the world – they will shine at the World Cup!” FIFA President Gianni Infantino praised African football, stating that the continent’s best players can now compete with the world’s top players. Infantino proudly stated that he has witnessed firsthand the remarkable progress of African football in recent years, which is truly inspiring. The world football leader pointed out that the technical level, athleticism, discipline, and tactical intelligence displayed by African players now enable the continent to compete at the highest level. Infantino confidently declared, “African football’s elite players are now among the world’s best.” He praised the continuous investment made by numerous African countries in youth development, infrastructure construction, and coach training, noting that these improvements are changing the global football landscape. Infantino expressed his “great pride” in the progress made by African football. He emphasized that the world is increasingly appreciating and respecting the level of African football.

Looking ahead to the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Africa sending more teams due to the new qualifying format, Infantino is full of confidence in the participating teams.


He predicts that African teams will not only perform well but also have the potential to achieve unprecedented success in the competition. “African teams will succeed in the upcoming World Cup,” he asserted, emphasizing the continent’s growing competitiveness and confidence. In recent years, African football has achieved a series of significant accomplishments, most notably Morocco’s historic run to the semi-finals in the last World Cup, and Infantino’s comments have further enhanced Africa’s global reputation. With increased participation, stronger teams, and accumulated experience, high hopes are placed on Africa’s return to the world stage.


As expectations grow, the message from one of the most influential figures in football is clear:


Africa is no longer a weakling, but a strong contender for the championship.


2 months ago
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Super Eagles

The Nigerian National League (NNL) is in turmoil: Dakada FC’s withdrawal raises new questions about club stability and league structure.

The Nigerian National League (NNL) has officially confirmed Dakada FC’s withdrawal from the 2024/2025 season. This move highlights the growing pressure facing clubs in Nigeria’s second tier.


Dakada FC was recently relegated from the Nigerian Premier League and announced its withdrawal from the season last week. The NNL Board confirmed on Tuesday that it had received formal notification from the club, ending days of speculation about the future of the Uyo member team.


The club’s withdrawal was due to ongoing administrative and financial difficulties that were exacerbated by relegation from the top league. Insiders revealed that these problems had reached a breaking point, making it impossible for them to continue competing.


With the season already underway, Dakada’s withdrawal puts the NNL’s operations in jeopardy. The league association is expected to release guidelines explaining how this move will affect group standings, the points system, and the schedule – adjustments that could have a profound impact on promoted and relegated teams.


This development has intensified the ongoing debate surrounding the financial, managerial, and structural health of football in Nigeria’s lower leagues and raised renewed concerns about the long-term viability of clubs outside the top flight.


As stakeholders prepare for the practical consequences of an early exit from the league, the Nigerian National League (NNL) is expected to release further announcements in the coming days.

2 months ago
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Nigeria

Sunday Olise: “I really wish I could have played with Osimhen – he was so good, he should have been on the World Cup stage!” The former Nigerian “Super Eagles” captain and former national team coach Olise raved about Victor Osimhen, revealing that he often fantasized about what it would be like to play alongside the explosive striker. Olise, known for his vision and midfield dominance, said the Napoli star possessed speed, power, and pressing ability, which perfectly suited his own playing style. “I really look forward to playing with Osimhen,” Olise admitted, analyzing Nigeria’s recent performances. The former Juventus and Dortmund midfielder went on to explain that Osimhen’s tireless running often gave the impression of him “fighting alone” – not because he lacked organization, but because the rest of the team didn’t coordinate with him. Olise believed that the Nigerian “Super Eagles” struggled to cope with Osimhen’s intensity, pressing, and running, leaving him isolated on the field.

He described the Galatasaray striker—still one of the most feared attackers in Africa—as “extraordinary,” calling him a versatile modern striker capable of causing trouble for any defense in world football. Sunday In a more emotional assessment, Oliseh expressed regret over Osimhen’s omission from the upcoming 2026 World Cup squad, emphasizing that he is the kind of player who could elevate a team on the world stage.


“He should have been on the World Cup pitch,” Oliseh said, referring to Nigeria’s disappointing failure to qualify.


Oliseh’s comments reflected the sentiments of many Nigerian fans who have always believed that Osimhen deserves to be on the highest stage of football. With his tireless professionalism, sharp intuition, and explosiveness, the striker remains a symbol of the talent Nigeria will lack in 2026.


For Oliseh, the conclusion is simple: Osimhen is the best striker of the century—and Nigeria’s inability to reach his level has cost the team dearly.


2 months ago
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