Victor Osimhen has spoken about the unique connection between his daughter and Galatasaray S.K. supporters, highlighting the warmth his family has received since joining the club, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The 27-year-old was recently seen celebrating with his four-year-old daughter, Hailey, as they danced together following Galatasaray’s 1–0 win over Liverpool F.C. in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League round of 16 clash.

Before kickoff, Galatasaray fans unveiled an emotional tifo in honour of Osimhen’s late mother, a gesture that moved the striker to tears and underlined the strong bond between him and the club’s supporters.

However, the return leg at Anfield proved difficult, as Osimhen suffered a forearm fracture early in the game and was later substituted, with Liverpool going on to secure a 4–0 victory to eliminate the Turkish side.

Speaking during a livestream with Carter Efe, Osimhen praised the club’s culture and the love shown to him and his family.

“When you enter the club, you’ll realise the way they treat players, especially those who give everything for the badge. They show real love,” he said.

The forward added that the connection extends beyond him, revealing how deeply his daughter has embraced the club.

“Even my daughter is more inclined to the club than I am. After training, we do the club’s chants and dance, and she enjoys it a lot,” Osimhen noted.

Despite sustaining an injury that will require surgery, Osimhen is expected to travel to Nigeria before returning to Türkiye for the procedure.

Reflecting on his time at the club, the former SSC Napoli forward expressed gratitude for the support shown to him and his loved ones, describing the experience as truly special.

Victor Osimhen has opened up about a difficult experience during his first invitation to the Nigeria national football team camp in 2017, revealing how he was turned away by a senior player upon arrival.

Speaking during a livestream with Carter Efe, the striker recounted the incident which occurred in Uyo during the tenure of former head coach Gernot Rohr, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Osimhen explained that he had gone to visit Kelechi Iheanacho after being invited to his room, but was stopped at the door by an unnamed senior player who shared the room with Iheanacho.

“I knocked, and it was the player who opened the door. He didn’t let me in; he bounced me. He was a big player at the time,” Osimhen revealed.

The situation was quickly resolved after Iheanacho intervened, confronting his teammate before bringing the young forward into the room.

“Iheanacho came and asked why he sent me away. He then held me and took me inside,” Osimhen added.

Since that early setback, Osimhen has gone on to establish himself as one of Nigeria’s most important players. The prolific striker has represented the country at multiple tournaments, including three Africa Cup of Nations editions, and currently ranks as the second-highest goalscorer in Super Eagles history with 35 goals, just behind the legendary Rashidi Yekini.

Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has shared the emotional story of the brief trial that transformed his journey into professional football, explaining how a single opportunity reshaped his destiny, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

In a heartfelt piece published by The Players' Tribune, the Nigerian forward reflected on his humble beginnings and the obstacles he overcame on his rise to the top of the game. Now a central figure at Galatasaray, Osimhen recounted the uncertainty and hardship that defined his early years before stardom.

He revealed that with the support of a local agent, he once travelled for nine hours to Abuja to attend a trial that attracted nearly 900 hopeful young players. On the opening day, he was not given a chance to step onto the pitch.

Hope came on the second day when a coach finally summoned him. “You have 15 minutes,” Osimhen remembered being told.

Fully aware that time was against him, the striker relied on sheer determination and work rate. “I knew that the only way to impress them was to run,” he wrote, revealing that he scored twice during his short appearance.

Despite that impactful showing, his name was initially left off the final selection list. Disappointed and preparing to leave, he suddenly heard voices calling him back. The team doctor, who had taken note of his two goals, pointed him out to the coaching staff.

“Two fingers saved me,” Osimhen stated, describing that moment as the breakthrough that changed everything.

That opportunity paved the way for his inclusion in Nigeria’s squad for the FIFA U-17 World Cup, where he finished as the tournament’s top scorer with 10 goals in seven matches. His remarkable performance guided the Golden Eaglets to the title and announced his arrival on the global stage.

From a near-missed opportunity in Abuja to conquering the world at the youth level and establishing himself in European football, Osimhen’s story stands as a testament to resilience, belief, and seizing every chance.

Super Eagles striker and KRC Genk hitman, Tolu Arokodare, has described his national team experience as “amazing” and says he’s ready to “continue scoring more” for Nigeria, NigeriaSoccernet.com gathered.

In a chat with Complete Sports during the Troost Ekong Foundation Charity Celebrity Match, the 23-year-old shared his excitement about life with the national team.

“It’s been amazing. It’s been a great atmosphere,” he said, reflecting on his time in camp.

Arokodare made his debut in a 2-0 win over Rwanda and featured again in a 1-1 draw with Zimbabwe in Uyo.

His standout moment came in Moscow, where he scored his first goal for Nigeria in a 1-1 friendly against Russia, his third international cap.

Describing the goal, he said: “It was an amazing feeling. It was very overwhelming. I was hoping it would come in my first few games, and it did come like that. And I’m very happy.”

With 23 goals in Belgium, the former Valmiera and Köln striker is currently among the league’s top scorers.

He credited the Super Eagles' unbeaten run, saying: “We’ve had pretty good games, soft games. We haven’t lost any game and we would love to continue that.”

The 6’6" forward has quickly become a rising star for Nigeria with his combination of physicality and clinical finishing.

Looking ahead, Arokodare said he remains driven by faith and hard work: “Just the best. I’m hoping for the best, working for the best, praying for the best.”

He added, “And I think everyone should expect the best. Yeah.”

As his confidence grows, so does his ambition to become a key name in the Super Eagles’ future.

Arokodare’s journey is shaping into one of Nigeria’s most promising football stories.

He’s not just scoring goals—he’s making a statement.

And if his words are anything to go by, “everyone should expect the best.”

Oluwayemi Omolagba

At just 23, Ademola Ismail Ajibola has already shown the kind of resilience and versatility that define a future star. A composed defensive midfielder with the ability to adapt as an offensive midfielder or even as a right full-back, Ajibola’s journey through the ranks of Nigerian football is one shaped by grit, faith, and ambition, NigeriaSoccernet.com can report.

Currently plying his trade at Creck Sporting Club, Ajibola’s career began at A.A Aztec before moving on to Sunshine Stars, where he further honed his craft and made his mark in competitive fixtures. Standing at 5 feet 9 inches and weighing 65kg, he brings both balance and energy to the heart of midfield — a true engine room presence, much like his idol Thiago Alcântara, whose calmness and control he deeply admires.

But the path hasn’t always been smooth.

"It has been a rough and tough journey from the beginning but I'm thanking God for the stage that I am at the moment," Ajibola reflects. "I wanna play top level football in Europe and make a name for myself in the round leather game."

That dream continues to drive him every day — from grassroots competitions to the training pitches of Creck Sporting Club. A two-time Ondo State Federation Cup winner and a standout performer in the TCC League (2019), Ajibola’s career highlights are a testament to his consistency and hunger.

His ambitions are crystal clear.

"I see myself in a top European club. My dream team is Real Madrid."

He speaks with the kind of quiet confidence that hints at long hours of work, setbacks overcome, and goals still burning within. And when asked about representing Nigeria on the grandest stage, his eyes light up.

"Yes, it has been my ambition since I started playing football to feature for the Super Eagles of Nigeria and I can't wait to wear the green and white."

With the drive to succeed, the skills to deliver, and a humble heart full of belief, Ademola Ismail Ajibola is not just another name in the Nigerian football scene — he’s a player on a mission. As he continues to rise, both club scouts and national selectors would do well to keep him firmly on their radar.

Oluwayemi Omolagba

A foremost players agent and football administrator Pele John Taiwo has tasked grassroots football managers to rejig and revitalise the system in a way that showcase the true value of football developments.

The lle-lfe based grassroots football enthusiast and Academy owner whose products are making waves in Europe advocates for right environments, more opportunities and skills development in grassroots football developments.

"Football is a big business nowadays but players don't have business mindsets as regards marketing, most of the coaches only approach the game with fixated minds on winning laurels.

"There’s a bit of a snag with that, coaches that suppose to even know better are no more teaching basic skills and there's no way they can get the best out of these players, which sidelines the goals of youth football.

"Many of our players are good but are not marketable because of the faulty foundations, some by luck would find themselves there but lack the quality to play at the top. Necessary things must be taught at the expense of winning. Though we can't dismiss the importance of winning but lessons and ethos remain constant regardless of the outcome."

The football financier who closely monitored series of matches at the ongoing Optima Energy Preseason Tournaments in Ogun state believes the youths should be given enough chance to showcase their talents.

"I have seen big teams that are not doing enough while some are presently parading marketable youths.

"Young players need opportunities, that's what the world of football wants. We need to know and understand what is marketable and presentable. This tourney should be seen as an avenue to instill confidence into young players. There are potentials that are ready to explode when they play with confidence and enjoy themselves," he noted

Following a hardworking season that saw her led her team to Serie C league title and the Serie C Copa Italia trophy, Lumezanne FC of Italy and Super Falcons player Rafiat Sule while relishing some moments from the just concluded season shared with Nigeriasoccernet.com her ingredients for success.

Rafiat in her first season with Lumezanne registered a total of 21 goals, 18 in the league and 3 in the Copa Italia which propelled the team to a league double.

Speaking exclusively to Nigeriasoccernet.com, Rafiat believed hardwork, dedication among other factors are the reason for her continued growth in the game.

"Hardwork, dedication, and focus helped me to the new level I am now in Italy because at the beginning it was kind of tough. A new team, and a new set of players, so it took me time to adapt to the team and also understand my teammates.

"The role I was also playing was far different from the ones I had been in years back. It took me half of the year before I could understand the role. In the beginning, I felt isolated because I was playing more from the midfield, the attacking side, so it was kind of difficult but in the second half of the season, I got it right and I really enjoyed it," she said.

Rafiat who left Nigeria for Europe four years ago found it difiicult at first to adapt to life outside Africa, but her determination to conquer helped her adjust on time.

"Talking about the environment, when I came in new four years ago, it was difficult. The language barrier, new teammates, and the style of training, the weather and many other factors made it difficult for me but I thank God that I was able to mingle and cope to get it right."

"To be honest, Italian league is not easy. It's more of physical, tactical and if you don't have the strength, you can't play in the league, but all in all, it's been God," sge added when asked about the nature of the Serie C.

[caption id="attachment_750678" align="aligncenter" width="300"] Rafiat poses with the Italia Serie C title[/caption]

In her rating of the league and it's contribution to her development, the energetic forward said: "Physically, the league has contributed to my development. I will rate that at fifty percent because I'm already this physical player before I left the shores of Nigeria. Mentally, I'll say the league has helped me on an hundred percent level because you can't cope in the league if you are not mentally fit.

"In Nigeria we rarely workout in the gym but here, you've got to. In Nigeria, it was more and only the field training of the thing, but here, you work in the gym and on the pitch and that has helped me mentally and psychologically and that has always helped me to give in my best everytime.

With 23 goals scored in league and cup games for Lumezanne in the just concluded season, Rafiat have now scored 48 goals in her last two seasons in Italy. She registered 27 goals, 23 in the league and 4 in the cup for alongside 7 assists for Vincenza the season before joining Lumenzanne.

She has represented Nigeria at the U-17 and senior level, registering 3 goals for the Super Falcons in her five appearances for them.

Oluwayemi Omolagba

"The quest for the just concluded season was to retain the league we won the season before. We wanted to do it for the club, the fans and the new players that joined us but it wasn't an easy one. We tried all we could to retain our title," stated Enyimba Int'l midfielder, Ekwutoziam Eze in an exclusive interview with Nigeriasoccernet.com.

Eze who joined Enyimba from Delta Force in 2021 had seven goals contribution last season, scoring thrice and assisting four times across 4 competitions for the People's Elephant.

Eze claimed despite the busy and tight schedule for the team they were able to push themselves to what a tagged 'a fantastic season'.

"We played in the league, CAF Champions League, the AFL. There was a time we played 3 games within a week but of-course that's our job and we just have to. I'll say for us it's a fantastic season even though people feel it's a disappointment because we didn't win the league, finished 3rd on the log after winning the last campaign which wasn't the target going into the season but we're happy and proud of ourselves.

"Everyone tried their best for us the players from the management team to the coaching crew and the fans but it ended that way. We've learnt our lessons this season and we'll be back stronger next season."

Moving from a lower division to Enyimba in 2021, Eze believes this is his best season so far in Nigeria's topflight league with the former NPFL champions.

"This is absolutely my best season. I scored on my champions league debut which was a dream come through for me and you know my teammates made that happen. In the league I had 7 goals contributions, scoring 3 times and making 4 assists playing from six different positions during the season which included playing at the eight-ball against Rivers United."

Eze who hail from Amala community in Enugu State, South Eastern part of Nigeria turned down a couple of offers from clubs during the season and with the season ended already, the big midfielder will likely consider them but not after enjoying the break with his family.

"Talking about the next move, right now the season is on break and I want to put everything aside for some rest. During the season, I had several offers which I didn't attend to because it wasn't time for that. For now it's time to rest but after some weeks I'll talk about them.

Oluwayemi Omolagba

The HRA Youth Cup, spearheaded by Odi-olowo Ojuwoye LCDA vice chairman Seyi Jakande, goes beyond just competition. It’s a platform for talented youngsters and a beacon of positivity for the community as revealed by the astute sports lover, Nigeriasoccernet.com writes.

A brainchild of Odi-olowo Ojuwoye LCDA vice chairman Seyi Jakande, he recognizes the twofold purpose of the competition. Firstly, it provides a crucial stage for young footballers to showcase their skills. Past participants have leveraged this exposure to secure professional opportunities in Europe, demonstrating the cup’s effectiveness in launching careers.

The tournament aims to challenge negative perceptions surrounding the Odi-olowo Ojuwoye community. By highlighting the talent and potential of its youth, the cup works to rewrite the narrative and showcase the positive aspects of the area.

Speaking to the press at the press conference and draw ceremony, Jakande posited that sports is crucial for the youth as it is a viable way of “keeping them occupied during their free time”.

“This tournament is all about showcasing the positive aspects of Odi-olowo Ojuwoye. We want to change the narrative and show the world the talented young people we have here, capable of achieving great things”

“Our goal is to push positivity for Odi-olowo Ojuwoye. We have talented youngsters who deserve to be seen, and this tournament is their platform. We want to break down negative stereotypes and show the world what our community is truly about hence why this tournament is a testament to that commitment”.

Meanwhile, Rasaq Ajala, chairman of Odi-olowo Ojuwoye LCDA has assured all participating clubs in the annual Odi-olowo Chairman’s Cup (OCC) of a fair playing field as well as top-class referees.

“We won’t use quack referees, we will use standard and qualified referees. We don’t have interest in any of the team. We expect the officiating officials to be fair and just in their assessment of matches.

“The issue of referees having preferences for any team would not be welcomed.

“The competition is highly impactful. Which have attracted so many teams from different parts of Lagos. Most of the players that played at the previous edition have moved to Europe and that shows the impact the competition have on the youths and community at large”, he shared.

The Odi-olowo Chairman’s Cup keeps youths engaged in sports and promotes fair play. It’s seen Ghetto Tigers and Unification Ladies win in the past.

By Olaleye Oluwadamilola

Ahead of their crunchy quarter final tie against Rivers Angels, Osun Babes versatile midfielder, Adebisi Macarthy is hoping for a resounding victory and a semi final berth.

Adebisi who was instrumental in the round of 16 tie against Confluence Queens FC is full of optimism about Osun Babes FC chances.

While having a one on one chat with the Media Officer of the team, Oluwaseun Omolola, she noted how the team is growing in confidence.

"I believe we have a technically and tactically sound team capable of winning against any team in the world. We have already demonstrated what we are capable of in our games against Gallant Queens and Confluence Queens."

"We are prepared and ready to go further in the President Federation Cup and we know that we need to scale through some obstacles to achieve our goal. Our next obstacle is Rivers Angels and we must overcome them."

"Rivers Angels are a formidable team, a great side and one of the best teams in Nigeria but they are beatable and I am positive that we would win."

"With excellent team play and dedication, I am sure we would conjure up the much needed victory and progress to the semi finals." Concluded Adebisi.

Osun Babes FC will take on Rivers Angels in the quarter final of the President Federation Cup on Wednesday, 19th June, 2024 at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu, Enugu State.

Oluwaseun Omolola

Joshua Akpudje's dedication to his community and his impressive career trajectory have garnered him high praise from Kosofe Local Government chairman Hon.Barr Moyosore Ogunlewe following his recent meeting with the leading community head in his office alongside distinguished members of the community, the first of it kind since his move to Europe, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Hailed for both his community spirit and career success, Joshua Akpudje received a warm welcome from Kosofe Local Government.

Speaking on behalf of the chairman, Hon. Moses O. Adekoya who is the Deputy chief of staff, Kosofe Local Govt. lauded Joshua’s effort in ensuring that the younger players get a solid platform to continue developing in their chosen path of career and also for being a shining light despite the challenges he faced before stardom.

“His journey is a testament of a true and born talent who fought valiantly against all odds to get to where he is presently. Standing out as a difference maker amongst all the stars that have emerged from the community, he’s indeed a different breed and we are glad that his hard-work is paying off now”.

“Joshua playing for the national team unlocked another level of self believe and confidence in the children in the community. If Joshua can be there, I can be there someday and that’s only if they keep up with training and hard-work because that’s what he did”, he added.

“We are very happy of the man and player that he is today and more so his growth in the course of time because I have always been around him right from the very beginning, Joshua is an exceptional kid with a large heart and I’m immensely filled with pride to be a witness of this moment, coming back as a hero to the community where he had nothing but determination to excel as a footballer”.

“Since Joshua moved to Europe, he regularly send balls to each team that trains on the pitch where he started his career, that’s about 10 teams in total. He partakes in grassroots competition, gives financial rewards even when not around and when around, he makes his presence seen”, he said of his contributions to the society.

Using Joshua as a measure of excellence and kindness, he urged others to emulate his good acts of kindness, “If we have 10 more youths in community give back to the society, we are sure of a brighter future for these boys”.

“He is the first football player in Kosofe local Govt. to come back and do this. We are proud of him for having the initiative to do this and we are wishing him nothing but the very best in his endeavors and career”, he concluded.

The former Nigeria U-17 defender applauded the local govt. drive and commitment to growth amongst youths and their support for him over the years.

“It’s an amazing feeling knowing that some of these young lads look up to me, I must say it’s a special feeling and of course, I’m so glad to meet the chairman. I’m so proud that this talent that God has given me have made people that matters most to recognize and connect with me”, Joshua posited.

On his novelty match -up, “It’s nice playing with them and feeling the same soil I started from, I’m happy to see some of the boys growing so fast and becoming better players”.

“My future plan for the community is to be able to have a foundation where I can help reach out to people. All I can say to the boys is that they should stay disciplined, never relent in putting in more effort and stay focused in achieving their goals because in no time, they will see their dreams manifesting before their very eyes”, he enjoined in his concluding remarks.

Joshua’s career over the years have been nothing but a lucid example of determination, hard work and sacrifice, he has had quiet an eventful ride in his career since that memorable move from MFM FC where he proved pivotal in their top-flight run, moving to Latvia, then to Czech Republic and now in Georgia’s first tier division with Dinamo Tbilisi.

By Olaleye Oluwadamilola

This Sunday at the Cathedral in Enugu, Rangers will host Enyimba in what might be the title decider for this season and with both teams current form, it is hard to predict where the pendulum will swing.

However, Enyimba midfielder, Eze Ekwutoziam believes his team will surely pick the maximum points come Sunday despite being the away team.

Speaking exclusively to Nigeriasoccernet.com, Eze who believes his team's ability supercedes that of Rangers says if things goes normal then the maximum points will be Enyimba's at the end of the game.

"It's going to be a big game and it's not going to be an easy one but I'm assuring you we're prepared for it," Eze says.

"We have been working so hard for this game and we're physically, mentally as team, individually we're all set for the game."

"Talking about the game being the league decider, well, I think we have four more games to go and we are ready for all the games.

"We're going to Enugu to get the maximum points. They are not better than us, and I believe we are better.

"If the game should be open, I believe Enyimba will go home with all 3 points. We are going to win the game," he concludes.

Eze bagged his 4th assist of the season on Sunday in Enyimba's 4-1 win over Rivers United. He'll hope he can increase the number come Sunday when Enyimba visit Rangers in the top of the table clash at the Cathedral, home of Enugu Rangers.

By Oluwayemi Omolagba

Osun Babes FC captain fantastic, Bunmi David has sternly warned Osun Babes opponent not to underrate her team in the President Federation Cup 2024.

She made this known while fielding questions from journalists in Osogbo.

Bunmi, who was optimistic about the chances of her team in the round of 16 against Confluence Queens said that the team is in high spirit and are ready to get the desired victory.

"We know we are playing against a great side in Confluence Queens FC but we, Osun Babes FC are no pushovers as well."

"We know we have to be at our very best to beat them considering the fact that they did well at the NWFL Premiership regular season and also in the just concluded Super 6. We know the task at hand and we are ready to deliver."

"The last time we played against Confluence Queens, it ended in a barren draw at Lokoja but this is a cup match and a winner must emerge. The winner surely would be Osun Babes FC."

"At the round of 32, we won convincingly against Gallant Queens and that should send signals to our next opponent. Any team that underrates us, will see the wrath on the pitch." Concluded Bunmi.

Osun Babes FC will be slugging it out against Confluence Queens at the round of 16 of the FA Cup on Wednesday, 29th May, 2024 in Ilorin.

Oluwaseun Omolola

After working as an assistant and also coach of MFM FC before they relegated from Nigeria's topflight football in 2022, Olalekan Gabriel shifted his focus Benin Republic Premier League, where he moved a team from 5th to top of the log in less than 5 games played, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Super, as fondly called was without a club in Nigeria after MFM FC's relegation and after waiting for a few years decided to take a trip outside the nation where he secured a job on probational basis with JAK FC, a team currently partaking in the Relegation South Playoff.

With the team seated 5th on the log, Gabriel was asked to see them through the playoffs and help secure their Premier League status which so far looks achievable as they are currently top of the log with 14 points from 7 games, closely followed by ASVO on 12 points from the same number of games.

Speaking exclusively to Nigeriasoccernet.com, Gabriel said: "I learnt a lot of lessons during my days coaching MFM FC. I worked under different coaches, learnt a lot of things and of-course the atmosphere of Nigeria can not be compared."

"The weather here is harsh, their pattern of league different as well but they have better facilities. I don't have a contract for now. I'm currently on probation. I joined them with 10 games left and contract is for me to finish the season after which I will decided if i want to stay with them or not," he concludes.

Gabriel work as one of the backroom staffs of Fidelis Ilechukwu during his coaching days at MFM FC. He also worked with several other coaches and was manned the main managerial position of the club.

By Oluwayemi Omolagba

Super Eagles newbee, Tanimu Benjamin of Ihehu FC of Tanzania basking in the euphoria of his first national team call-up stated that it was a dream come true for him while speaking exclusively to Nigeriasoccernet.com over the weekend.

Tanimu Benjamin left Bendel Insurance in January for Ihehu FC of Tanzania and less than two months after got his first national team call-up.

The rock solid defender was instrumental in Bendel Insurance return from the lower division to the topflight in 2022. He was also one of the keys to coach Monday Odigie's achievement winning the national FA Cup and also picking continental ticket.

His hardwork surely is due for a national team reward and having gotten an invitation to the U23 team last year, Benjamin will now fancy his call-up for the main national team when Nigeria take on Ghana and Mali during the March FIFA International break.

"I feel Super excited about ths call-up I must say," Tanimu told Nigeriasoccernet.com.

"It's every player's dream to play the national team and for me, this is an opportunity I have always been praying for.

"I hope to make full use of this opportunity if given the chance to feature during the friendly games coming up later in the month," he concluded.

Nigeria will play Ghana first on Friday 22nd of March, 2024 before playing four days later. Both games will be played in Morocco.

Meanwhile, Tanimu Benjamin's Ihehu FC will face Tanzania league leaders Young Africans today Monday 11th March 2024, at the Azam Complex Stadium by 4pm local time.

While Young Africans occupy the top spot on the log with 46 points, Ihehu FC are 8th with 23 points.

By Oluwayemi Omolagba

Switching from a Nigeria National League side to a Premier League team is always seen as a big achievement for Nigeria players but moving to a club as big a s Enyimba is always a dream come through for all.

One of the biggest winners of the January transfer window is Alade Balogun who moved from NNL side, Smart City FC of Lagos to Enyimba FC of Aba.

The former MFM FC forward who joined Smart City FC after the Olukoya Boys got relegated has been praying for a big move and this January, his dream materialise as he joined the league defending champions till the end of the season with an option to extend.

Speaking exclusively on the move to Nigeriasoccernet.com, Balogun says:

"I feel so happy and grateful to God for making it possible.

"Playing my first game and even in the starting lineup for Enyimba FC, and with  the fact that the fans are getting to know me more and I also thank God for not disappointing them on my debut," he said.

Alade Balogun is not just elated for joining Enyimba, he wants to achieve a lot with them this season and beyond.

"I want to score goals and help the team win the league and also qualify for CAF Champions League and many more by the grace of God."

Alade will hope he gets his first goal for the Aba Blues when they visit Benin for a date with Bendel Insurance on Saturday.

By Oluwayemi Omolagba 

Super Eagles coach, Jose Peseiro believed tomorrow's semifinal clash with Angola won't be a walk in the park for the team despite being tagged the favourite for the title after defending champion Senegal and other top teams crashed out in earlier stages, Nigeriasoccernet.com writes.

Peseiro during the pre-match conference for the Friday's game which he attended alongside Alex Iwobi gave his view about the game, stating the strength of the opponent and that of the Super Eagles.

"This is one match, quarterfinals. The both teams want to reach the semifinal. It's going to be a tough match. Our team need commitment and dedication. No big name in Angola but they're doing very well. They have good capacity, they want to win but they don't want it more than us. We want to create opportunities and score.

"For tomorrow in my opinion, it's 50 percent for each team to win the match. We want to play the semifinal and the final. You can mention us as the favorite but each team have 50 percent chance and tomorrow, the game will start at 0-0.

Speaking ahead of the game, Fulham's midfielder, Alex Iwobi said: "We've watched their video and we're trying to see where we can explore their weaknesses.

"They scored a lot of goals as we can see in their last game and we have been defending very well also. Like the coach said, both teams want to make the semifinal but we'll give a good account of ourselves."

"We have to give a lot of respect to Angola because to get to this stage where we are is not easy. They scored a lot of goals but I'm confident in my team that we're going to withstand any kind of pressure. We've only conceded only one goal so we know what to do," Iwobi added.

Asked about Nwabili's readiness for the game, Jose Peseiro says:

"Today, we're going to take the final decision on Nwabili. We see the results and if he cannot play, Francis is confident and also we have Ojo."

Angola have scored a lot of goals in this tournament including 3 in their round of 16 game but Peseiro seems not to be bothered as he'll stick to his own tactics rather than changing it because of the opposition's strength.

"We will play our way. We respect opponents but I don't change my team, my model, my tactics because of a team. We respect opponents but we'll stick to our plans."

Nigeria will face Angola in the first quarterfinal of the 2023 African Cup of Nations at the Stade de Felix Houphouet-Boigny, Abidjan tomorrow by 6pm Nigerian time.

By Oluwayemi Omolagba

Nigeria Born Djibouti striker, Samuel Akinbinu has stated his team, AS Arta Solar 7's target is to finish top of the Djiboutian League and participate in the CAF Champions League, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Akinbinu, 24 who has been in blistering form this season, bagged a hatrick on Boxing Day to propel the league giants to an emphatic 6-2 win over Gendarmerie in the National Championship match day 6 encounter.

The fine form of the Bouziane Benaraïbi's side has seen them at the top of the log following 5 wins and a draw, scoring 20 goals and conceding 3 goals after 6 matches.

Akinbinu who plays his international football for Djibouti National team helped Arta Solar to their second consecutive league title in 2022 says he is desirous of a repeat of the feat after they finished third last season.

Samuel told Nigeriasoccernet.com "Our target this season is non negotiable, we just have to win the league to go to the CAF Champions League"

Arta Solar became first Djiboutian club to pass the first round of the preliminary phase of a continental competition of African clubs after beating Somali club side, Horseed club 6+0 on aggregate.

It lost 4-3 on aggregate to Zamalek of Egypt in the second phase of the prelims rounds.

He also spoke of his personal target for the season after scoring 6 goals so far despite missing the first two matches of the season as he had to travel home for personal reasons.

"My target, as a striker you have to continue to put the goals (at the back of the net), at the end of the season God can give the crown of "highest goal scorer".

But my target is that each match I have to score at least one (goal) so at the end of the season God will do the best.", He told Nigeriasoccernet.com.

He played for Rivers United, Nembe City, Bayelsa United and Shooting Stars in the Nigeria Premier Football League before leaving for Djibouti.

Uche Dozie

Doma United will on Wednesday face Sunshine Stars as they continue the battle with Remo Stars and Lobi Stars for the top spot in the league, Nigeriasoccernet.com writes.

Doma United are gradually building a name for themselves since their first appearance in the topflight last season, and despite missing out on the Super Six on the final day of the season, the Savannah Tigers have so far shown that they are not a season wonder as many have tagged them to be.

Speaking ahead of the game, coach of the side Akinade Onigbinde believes his team will leave no stone untuned when they face the Akure Gunners. He claims his knows what is at stake and how to achieve it.

"We are in Akure to pick point. All the players know what is expected of them and what we need to do to go back to the top of the league.

"We've trained and prepare for the game through our game plan, so we will see how it goes," he said.

Talking about the secret to his team's form this season, "hard work" Onigbinde said.

"It's only hard work. We work very hard, we train very well and the players know what its all about. We know what we are looking for, we know what our target is, so we set a target for ourselves and we know that we are going to achieve that.

"Actually its been been easy. To work on the defence, to the midfield and attack, everyone knows what our target is. One of our target s at least no ball must go to our net, so,is not easy. We make sure we breakdown our opponents so they don't go into our 18, or take a shot from outside the 18. So all those things, the blocking, the marking, we've been working on it and they've been helping us.

"Again, the owner of team, Alhaji Sulaiman Umar has been doing so very well in the area of funding. He is really trying for the players and the officials. Immediately after the match, the players get their bonuses, so this ginger them. For the gane against Sunshine Stars now, the players know what is at stake. They win the game, ofcourse they have plenty of money to enjoy their new year. This motivates everyone to put up their best in every game.

"All these have been the key factors helping us. We face challenges also, but we've been able to overcome them."

Speaking on Osayi Kingdom missing out on the AFCON provisional list despite his form for the club, coach Onigbinde believes his time will come. Although he thinks the goalkeeper has been outstanding and should have been considered, but believes his time will definitely come.

Doma United have lost only 3 times on the road this season and a point against Sunshine Stars in Akure will place them level on points with Remo Stars who currently occupies the top spot and a win, will help them climb to the top spot.

By Oluwayemi Omolagba

Newly formed Ibadan based club, G Ranking FC are aiming for an NNL qualification as they prepare for their first ever NLO outing, Nigeriasoccernent.com can report.

Owner of the club, Bakara Yusuf Gbolahan who hails from Ibadan while speaking exclusively with Nigeriasoccernet.com, said: "I wants to help the youths in my area have a future to be proud of. My motivation is just the passion I have for the round leather game."

The club which started four years ago have won a couple of laurels and participated in various competitions like Federation Cup, Ona Ara League and Kolapo Cup Competition.

They now have their eyes on the NLO where they intend to pick up a NNL ticket for next season.

By Oluwayemi Omolagba