Sports

  From a former Golden Eaglets goalkeeper representing Uganda to Nigerian-born players choosing Malawi, Sudan and Benin Republic, footballers with Nigerian connections are finding international opportunities elsewhere in Africa. When Akpan Udoh helped Nigeria win the FIFA Under-17 World Cup in Chile in 2015, his future appeared tied to the country whose colours he wore alongside future Super Eagles stars …

The Super Eagles lost to DR Congo 4-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw following extra time in the African play-off final in Rabat, Morocco, on 16 November 2025. FIFA is facing fresh questions over the circumstances surrounding Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup after reports revealed that its officials knew DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi had …

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni has confirmed Cristian Romero as the new captain of the national team following Lionel Messi’s international retirement. According to Goal, Scaloni has chosen the Atletico Madrid defender to take over the armband as Argentina prepare for the next phase of the team’s development following the end of Messi’s international career. Scaloni confirmed Romero’s new role while …

  “No life is a waste,” declares Edo Commissioner for Education, as stakeholders call for stronger support for inmates’ reintegration into society. The event, themed “Rehabilitation Through Sports Education and Social Reintegration,” featured football, athletics, table tennis, and tug-of-war competitions among inmate teams.  Benin City — The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), Edo State Command, in partnership with the Civil Rights …

Nigeria’s latest push for continental glory in women’s football received a major boost on Tuesday as Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, rewarded Edo Queens with N50 million following their NWFL-WAFU-B double and qualification for the CAF Women’s Champions League. Okpebholo announced the reward while receiving the champions and their trophies at a reception at the Festival Hall, Government House, on …

Former Super Eagles head coach Augustine “Cerezo” Eguavoen has been appointed to lead Nigeria’s Super Falcons on a temporary basis as the search for a permanent manager continues. His immediate assignment is navigating the 2028 Olympic Games second-round qualifying tie against Comoros this October. Eguavoen brings top-tier experience to the role, having previously guided the Super Eagles to a bronze …

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has dismissed as fake a purported letter allegedly issued by world football governing body FIFA over claims of government interference in the affairs of Nigerian football. The document, which circulated in sections of the media, purportedly warned that Nigeria could face suspension from FIFA and CAF competitions if the reported resignation of former NFF President …

Argentina legend Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international football with Argentina after an illustrious career with the South American nation. The 39-year-old made a total of 207 appearances, won the World Cup in 2022, and was a runner-up in 2026 and 2014. He also secured two Copa América titles. Messi wrote in a statement, “It was a decision …

President Bola Tinubu has directed a comprehensive reform of Nigerian football following repeated failures by national teams to qualify for major regional, continental and global tournaments. The ​‌‍⁠‌‌‍⁠⁠‌‍​​‌‌⁠​​‌​President said the reform must address longstanding weaknesses in governance, administration, stakeholder representation, development pathways, domestic competitions and accountability. This is contained in a statement issued by Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, on …

Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury’s highly anticipated heavyweight showdown will go ahead, according to Joshua’s promoter Eddie Hearn, despite recent doubts raised by Fury. Hearn said the fight is effectively locked in after both boxers signed contracts, insisting neither fighter can simply withdraw from the agreement. Fury had suggested earlier in the week that the long-awaited British heavyweight clash “doesn’t …