Desportspastor Blog

FJ Football Academy in Akure has appointed Coach Ezindu Okay-Lawrence, a seasoned grassroots development coach and NFCA FCT chapter EXCO member, as its new manager and Head Coach.   The appointment was announced at a colourful ceremony at Legacy Lounge, attended by management, players, and fans. President Chief Sir Elvis Ogbebor thanked attendees and welcomed Coach Lawrence, pledging support for him to take the team to new heights.  Coach Lawrence expressed his excitement to join the academy, citing his passion for grassroots development. Prof. Abiodun Henry, National Football Coaches Association Training Officer, praised Coach Lawrence as an exceptional coach who will greatly benefit FJ Academy. l

  The Abia State Governor-sponsored Nigerian National League pre-season tournament kicked off with a bang as Abia Comets FC defeated Edel FC 2-0 in their opening match. This exciting initiative, organized in partnership with the National League Club Owners and Managers Association (NALCOMA), brings together six top teams from Nigeria's South-East and South-South regions. The Abia Comets' victory was sealed with an own goal in the 73rd minute, followed by Felix Henry's clinical finish just four minutes later. Meanwhile, Kun Khalifat FC and Solution FC played to a tense goalless draw in the day's second match. Abia Comets' chairman, Chief Boniface Uche, and coach, Mr. Kevin Ejeh, hailed Governor Alex Otti for making the tournament possible. "This competition is crucial for our teams to prepare for the upcoming season," said Uche. Ejeh added, "We're grateful for the Governor's support, and our players' fighting spirit is a glimpse of what'

  Photocredit: Cibsmedia   Enyimba FC returned to winning ways with a thrilling 2-1 victory over NPFL newcomers Ikorodu City at the Enyimba International Stadium on Sunday. Ifeanyi Ihemekwele opened scoring for Enyimba in the 6th minute, but despite numerous attempts, the Aba giants couldn't increase their lead, thwarted by questionable offside calls. Ikorodu City, boosted by the slim margin, pushed for an equalizer, only to be denied by impressive saves from CHAN Eagles invitee, Ani Ozoemena. However, Ajayigbe Tayoobe leveled the score in the 89th minute. In dramatic fashion, Adiukwu Moses headed home Imo Obot's corner kick in the 92nd minute, securing Enyimba's win. Post-Match Reactions Ikorodu City coach, Nurudeen Aweroro, attributed his team's loss to lapses in concentration: "We came to Aba for a result, but it didn't work out as planned. Congratulations to Enyimba on their victory." Enyimba coach, Yemi Olanrewaju, expressed concerns over questionable

In a significant development, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Disciplinary Committee has awarded three points and three goals to Nigeria's Super Eagles following a disputed 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying match against Libya. According to a letter signed by Ousmane Kane, Chairperson of the CAF Disciplinary Board, Libya breached Article 31 of the AFCON regulations and Articles 82 and 151 of the CAF disciplinary code. Consequently, Libya has been fined $50,000, payable within 60 days. This ruling propels the Super Eagles to the top of their qualifying group with 10 points from four matches, a comfortable four-point lead over second-placed Benin. A draw against Benin in Abidjan next month will secure the Super Eagles' spot at the 2025 AFCON, scheduled to take place in Morocco in December 2025. The current standings in the qualifying group are: 1. Nigeria (Super Eagles) - 10 points 2. Benin - 6 points 3. Rwanda - 5 points 4. Libya - 1 point (eliminated) Li

Bayelsa United returned to winning form in style, defeating Heartland FC 1-0 in their Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Matchday 7 encounter at the Samson Siasia Stadium. Substitute Rabiu Abdullahi's 55th-minute strike sealed the victory for the Prosperity Boys, ending their midweek slump against Bendel Insurance. Match Highlights - Foluwa Akpokabowei made his first start of the season, while Kehinde Malik returned to the starting XI after injury. - Rabiu Abdullahi scored the winner from Yahaya Ibrahim's low cross. - Heartland FC's Elvis Ori and Chijioke Opara threatened in the first half, but Bayelsa United goalkeeper Godgift Elkanah denied them. - Tarabina Biwerebo missed a golden opportunity just before halftime. Post-Match Reactions Bayelsa United's Technical Adviser, Ladan Bosso, praised his team's spirit but expressed concern over their wastefulness in front of goal. Heartland FC Coach, Emmanuel Amuneke, attributed the defeat to his team's lack of con

In a thrilling Matchday 8 encounter, Elkanemi Warriors outsmarted Enyimba FC 1-0 at the Elkanemi Stadium, Maiduguri, to claim all three points in the Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL). The hosts burst out of the blocks, catching Enyimba off guard with a first-half strike. The People's Elephant struggled to find their footing, fatigue taking its toll on their performance. However, Enyimba roared back to life in the second half, dominating possession and crafting scoring chances. Alas, their finishing fell short, and they couldn't find the equalizer. * Kolawale's Heroics* Elkanemi's goalkeeper, Kolawale, proved the difference-maker, pulling off crucial saves to preserve his team's slender lead. His time-wasting tactics in the closing stages sparked controversy, but the referee's three-minute stoppage time decision left Enyimba feeling short-changed. Coach Olarenwaju's Verdict "We were flat in the first half, but revitalized in the second... I t

Abia Warriors centre back Collins Nwoburuoke has assured fans of a strong comeback performance against Plateau United on Sunday, October 20, 2024, at the Umuahia Township Stadium. The promise comes on the heels of a shocking 3-0 loss to Nasarawa United in Lafia. Nwoburuoke acknowledged the disappointment but emphasized the team's determination to redeem themselves. "It wasn't the result we expected, but we'll make it right," he said. "We'll get the points back. Fans should trust us; we're focused." The defender revealed a positive atmosphere in the camp, with players driven to deliver. "Everyone's in high spirits; we're ready to get the job done." Key Match Facts: - Date: Sunday, October 20, 2024 - Time: 4 pm - Venue: Umuahia Township Stadium - Head-to-Head (Last 5 Games):     - 03/04/24: AWFC 1-0 PUFC     - 12/11/23: PUFC 3-1 AWFC     - 21/05/22: AWFC 2-0 PUFC     - 30/01/22: PUFC 1-0 AWFC     - 09/05/21: PUFC 2-1 AWFC Injury U

As the world of football continues to evolve, new talents emerge to captivate audiences and inspire greatness. Meet Nnamdi Frank, the Nigerian central defender/right back making waves in African football. Nnamdi's impressive resume boasts stints with Warri Wolves Feeder Team, J Atete Football Club, Warri Wolves FC, Cotton Sports of Benin Republic, and Dragon FC of Benin Republic. He has also represented Nigeria at various youth levels, including Nigeria U-13, Nigeria U-15, and was called up to Nigeria's Flying Eagles (U-20). On the pitch, Nnamdi Frank is a force to be reckoned with, boasting strong ball-playing abilities, agility, quick reflexes, endurance, and stamina. His versatility and vision make him an invaluable asset to any team. Off the pitch, Nnamdi enjoys swimming, gyming, photography, and reading. These hobbies relax him and sharpen his focus and discipline. Nnamdi's dedication, discipline, and passion for football make him a standout player. His ability to adap

Yesterday, September 1st, was a momentous day at The Afternoon Church in Aba, as Pastor Akachi and the Free School Foundation witnessed the graduation of over 120 students from their scholarship program. This remarkable achievement marks a significant milestone in the church's commitment to empowering young minds and transforming lives through education. The Free School Foundation, under the leadership of Pastor Akachi Nwoke has been dedicated to providing educational support to underprivileged students in the community. Through their scholarship program, they have bridged the gap for many young individuals, offering them a chance to pursue their academic dreams. The graduation ceremony was a joyous celebration of the students' hard work and perseverance. Pastor Akachi, along with other dignitaries, addressed the gathering, emphasizing the importance of education in shaping the future of our society. The graduates were awarded certificates, and some were even offered further sc

In a remarkable event at Cine 21 Cinema in Aba, Abia State, over 60 individuals made a life-changing decision to surrender their lives to Christ during a screening of the faith-based movie "CHAINS - No longer a slave" by Bright Wonder Obasi. Pastor Akachi Nwoke, President of Free School Foundation and Lead Pastor of The Afternoon Church, who personally funded the event, led a group of 120 youths to the cinema. The powerful movie had a profound impact, with over 60 people openly repenting and rededicating their lives to Christ during the viewing. Pastor Nwoke shared his excitement about the experience, stating, "The revolution has begun! We took 120 youths to see the movie Chains and had over half of them surrender their lives to Christ. We highly recommend this movie. It's a game-changer!" He emphasized the effectiveness of using faith-based movies as a tool for evangelism, noting that buying movie tickets was a more cost-effective approach than organizing a tra

Enyimba International FC of Aba has completed the signing of former Lobi Stars and Dakkada FC center back, Odinaka Francis, for an undisclosed fee! The Aba-born defender, who began his football career at Enyimba before moving to Dakkada and Lobi, has returned to his roots as the People's Elephant prepares for the 2024/25 NPFL season. Odinaka's homecoming is a significant boost to Enyimba's squad, bringing experience and depth to the team's defense. Fans are thrilled to see the local boy turned football star return to his hometown club!

   Coal City Football Club, founded by Hon Chiemerie Agu, has established itself as a premier platform for identifying, developing, and promoting talented young footballers in Nigeria. With a clear mission to harness and showcase the skills of Enugu's abundant talented youth, Coal City FC has become a hub for football development in the region. The club's scouting network identifies promising youngsters, who are then invited to join the club's academy for top-class training, mentorship, and guidance. Under Agu's leadership, Coal City FC has produced players who have gone on to achieve success in top-tier clubs, both locally and internationally. The club's commitment to excellence has earned it a reputation as a model for grassroots football development in Nigeria. However, despite its successes, Coal City FC has faced significant challenges, including a paucity of funds. The club has had to rely on the generosity of its founder and a few well-wishers to sustain its

In a welcoming collaboration, Gulf United, a leading football club in the top tier of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) League, and City Sports Group hosted a grand scholarship showcase aimed at discovering and nurturing the next generation of football talents in Nigeria. The landmark event kicks off in Abuja under the watch of Gulf United's club director, Mo Jarad.   The showcase in Abuja featured two categories for players aged 13-17 and 16-21 and the selected participants did not disappoint as they brought skills on display.  Selected participants will have the opportunity to study and train at some of the UK's and USA's most esteemed educational institutions, including Langley School, Beechwood School, Trinity School, and Bede's School. In attendance at the Abuja showcase were Marcello Anyanwu, head scout and assistant coach of Gulf United's first team; Martin Marlow, head of recruitment Gulf United FC based in the UK. This event marks Gulf United's second show

Head Coach Randy Waldrum has picked captain Rasheedat Ajibade, goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, defender Osinachi Ohale, forward Asisat Oshoala and 14 other players in his final list of Nigeria’s Super Falcons for this year’s Women’s Olympic Football Tournament in France. There are also defenders Oluwatosin Demehin and Michelle Alozie, midfielders Deborah Abiodun, Halimatu Ayinde, Christy Ucheibe and Toni Payne, and forwards Esther Okoronkwo, Chinwendu Ihezuo and Uchenna Kanu. Squad members who are currently on holidays in Nigeria will join home-based players and team officials aboard an Air France flight from Abuja to Sevilla, Spain on Thursday night, with the rest of the playing body and technical team also arriving in Sevilla on Friday for a two-week training camp. The team is scheduled to depart Sevilla for France on Thursday, 18th July. Nine-time African champions Nigeria, who are making their first appearance at the Women’s Olympic Football Tournament for the first time since 2008 i

The maiden edition of Lagos State Chapter of the Nigeria Ex-Internationals Cup, organised by Lagos State Football Association, has continued to evoke fond and exciting memories of the playing days of the ex-Nigeria international players participating in this tournament as Coach-Mentor to their adopted teams. It has been a thoroughly exciting, tough and rough journey so far, as teams had to play some games on sandy, bumpy and uneven grounds in the different communities playgrounds across the state, as they moved towards the promised land. The matches in the rounds of 32 and rounds of 16, threw up interesting encounters, just as we recall how former Super Eagles and West Bromwich Albion defender Ifeanyi Udeze, squared up against the legendary former Nigeria left winger Friday Elahor in the rounds of 32. And dubbed as a match between defender against attacker, it was Udeze's team that came out tops. Another cracker was between the teams adopted by Olympic medallist Joseph Dosu and for

Edel FC attacking sensation, Arinze Anya and midfield maestro, Harrison Ofonime have put pen to paper with Swedish third division club Ljungkile SK Herrfotboll on a one year loan with an option of signing outrightly for two years. Arinze and Harrison traveled with Work Permits. Both players are part of Edel FC's current campaign in the NNL and contributed massively to our present position now. Ljungskile SK is a Swedish football club located in Ljungskile, a town within Uddevalla Municipality. They currently play in the Swedish third tier, Division 1 (Ettan Sodra). The team was formed on 16th of May 1926. They are currently 11th on the table after playing 6 games so far. Harrison and Arinze will hope to help them move up the table.  Reacting about the news, the Team Manager of Edel FC, Fancy Ewulu, spoke glowing about the movement, thank the management of the club led by Mr Jude Edeh in making sure that deal happened. He equally optimistic that both players will excel while being w

Lagos State Football Association (LSFA) has reassured all football stakeholders, investors and enthusiasts of its unwavering commitment towards a sustainable football development in the State. Chairman of LSFA, Hajji Gafar Liameed in his statement noted the recent ugly happenstances as it concerns the affairs of the LSFA, which he described as very unfortunate. He said the executive board of the LSFA, remain united, strong and undeterred, as it continues to work in unity and purposefully, to make the business of football in the state, better and attractive to all stakeholders and investors. He remarked that the LSFA is on course with its several innovative and developmental programmes, aimed at developing the game across the state, as well as, providing the technical supports for all involved in the state football ecosystem.

The Board of Nigeria Football Federation on Monday approved the recommendation of its Technical and Development Committee to appoint former ace winger Finidi George as Head Coach of the Senior Men National Football Team, Super Eagles.   George, who spent 20 months as assistant to José Santos Peseiro before the Portuguese voluntarily left the post following the accomplishment of Africa Cup of Nations runner-up position at Cote d’Ivoire 2023, took charge of the squad in interim capacity during two friendly matches in Morocco last month.   His squad edged Ghana 2-1 in the first match, ending an 18-year winless streak against the Black Stars, but then lost 0-2 to Mali in the second game.   George, a member of the so-styled ‘Golden Generation’ that won the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations tournament in Tunisia and emerged the second most entertaining team in Nigeria’s debut at the FIFA World Cup finals in USA the same year, won 62 caps for Nigeria, including featuring at the 1994 and 1998 FIFA Wo

If Lagos State Football Association (LSFA) Chairman, Hajji Gafar Olawale Liameed was a man of many words, he would have described the latest project of Dozy Mmobuosi - in the most colourful superlatives of adjectives.  Some of the projects: Tingo Mobile to provide mobile technology and Fintech solutions to rural communities in Nigeria. Tingo Inc., a publicly traded company on the OTC Markets Group and Nwassa, a digital Agri-Marketplace that is Africa’s first agricultural technology and digital platform. Following launch of Tingo Cola, Ojaja Bitters and Tingo Electric Energy Drinks in Victoria Island on Tuesday, an elated Hajji Gafar subtly described Dozy Mmobuosi as a true investor. "Mr Dozy Mmobuosi is an example of a real investor and we should all commend him for his contribution to the society at large," the impressed and excited Hajji Gafar said to LSFA Media. "I strongly believe that the projects launched today are great contributions to the national development of

  Lagos State Football Association Chairman, Hajji Liameed Olawale Gafar, has congratulated Manu Garba, on his appointment as the new head coach of the Nigeria U17 national football team, the Golden Eaglets.  Manu Garba's first tenure as Eaglets Manager saw him handling footballers such as Taiwo Awoniyi, Kelechi Iheanacho, Isaac  Success, Francis Uzoho, Chidiebere Nwakali and Musa Muhammed to victory at the 2013 FIFA U17 World Cup.   According to Hajji Gafar, he believes that this experience makes Manu Garba the ideal candidate to lead the Golden Eaglets to new heights. The coach who returns for his third stint with the team has been saddled with the responsibility of leading the current crop of players to next month's WAFU B U17 Championship which serves as qualifiers for the Africa Cup of Nations. The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) recently appointed the former Flying Eagles manager as the Golden Eaglets' head coach. Hajji Gafar harped on the need to make talents disco

This was revealed by LSFA Chairman Hajj Gafar Olawale Liameed on Thursday morning. "We believe in our ex players. LSFA is determined to carry along ex internationals and drive the game forward at every level," LSFA Chairman Hajj Gafar began. "The tournament will see former Nigeria internationals based in Lagos adopt teams. For instance if an ex international is based in the area of Dino SC he can adopt them.  "The competition tagged 'The Nigeria Ex Internationals Cup'  would see teams play on home and away basis in the first phase before we proceed to the knockout stage. "We want to have a clear identity and organize lots of programs. This is one of our innovations and we hope to take blessings from the Lagos State Government and Nigeria Football Federation," the football technocrat enthused. Hajj Gafar also reiterated LSFA's commitments to proper development of football in the centre of excellence. "We're determined to lead that devel