Alex Iwobi scored the decisive goal as Fulham beat Hull City 1-0 at Craven Cottage to claim their first Premier League victory of the 2026-27 season and end a winless opening run.

The Nigeria midfielder’s first-half strike took his Premier League tally to 36 goals, putting him joint-sixth among Nigeria’s leading scorers in the competition alongside former West Bromwich Albion and Stoke City forward Peter Odemwingie.

The result was also Alvaro Arbeloa’s first Premier League win since becoming Fulham manager in July. It provided relief for a side that had started the campaign with four defeats and two draws, and lifted them out of the relegation zone on five points.

Iwobi settled the match in the 33rd minute after Sander Berge recovered possession and found him on the edge of the penalty area. His low shot took a slight deflection from Lucas Herrington before going beyond Hull goalkeeper Konstantinos Tzolakis at his near post.

Fulham created a number of chances, including 10 shots in the first half, but could not add to their advantage. They were forced to defend their lead after Ryan Sessegnon was sent off in stoppage time.

Iwobi said the victory was a major relief for the players, coaching staff and supporters, having felt their performances in previous matches had deserved more favourable results. Speaking to Fulham TV, he added that the win had been a long time coming.

Sherwood praises ‘underrated’ Iwobi

Former Tottenham Hotspur manager Tim Sherwood named Iwobi Man of the Match and described him as one of the Premier League’s most underrated players.

Sherwood praised the 30-year-old’s consistency, versatility and ability to perform in several midfield positions. He also highlighted the number of matches Iwobi plays and the standard he maintains while being asked to fulfil different roles.

The performance underlined Iwobi’s growing importance to Fulham, with the midfielder contributing at both ends of the pitch and continuing to establish himself as a key player.

Iwobi accepted that Fulham needed to be more clinical after creating opportunities without making the scoreline safer. He said the team’s continued ability to generate chances should eventually lead to more goals.

He also pointed to the clean sheet as an important basis for future success, arguing that defensive strength gives Fulham a better opportunity to win matches.

Arbeloa said the performance was not dramatically different from those in Fulham’s earlier games, despite the improved result. His view matched Iwobi’s belief that the team’s displays had not always been reflected in their points total.

The manager had faced questions after the difficult start, but the victory gives him and his squad an opportunity to rebuild confidence. Fulham’s next league fixture is away to Coventry City on Saturday, 24 October, when Iwobi will look to add to his record-equalling total and help his side turn their first win into a more consistent run.

Super Falcons interim coach Austin Eguavoen has urged patience as Nigeria work to expand their pool of players before the next stages of the 2028 Olympic qualifiers.

Eguavoen said new players would need to be introduced gradually so the team can strengthen its options without disrupting the progress made by the senior women’s national side.

The coaching staff plan to use available international windows to assess players who were not involved in Nigeria’s recent matches. The intention is to give those players an opportunity to demonstrate that they can contribute to the team, while creating greater competition for places in future selections.

Eguavoen believes the Super Falcons still have the quality and personnel required to remain Africa’s leading team. However, he also accepts that Nigeria must develop a deeper squad if they are to cope with more demanding opposition in the international fixtures ahead.

Gradual changes planned by Eguavoen

The interim coach said the technical staff would examine opportunities to bring additional players into the squad, but would do so while preserving the team’s competitiveness.

Rather than making a large number of changes at the same time, the plan is to assess players who missed the recent matches and allow them to make their case for inclusion. Eguavoen stressed the importance of finding a balance between introducing new talent and retaining the experienced core that has helped the team maintain its standards.

He also acknowledged the pressure that can accompany the process. A defeat could lead to criticism even when the result comes during an attempt to integrate unfamiliar players into the side.

For that reason, the coaching staff want to make changes in stages. New players can be given time to settle into the squad, while the team continues to rely on a solid group of established performers.

Wider squad is a priority for Olympic campaign

Nigeria are seeking more selection options as they prepare for tougher fixtures in their bid to qualify for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.

Eguavoen’s approach is designed to ensure that the technical crew have a stronger pool from which to choose as the qualification campaign develops. At the same time, he wants to avoid any decline in the Super Falcons’ performances during the transition.

The planned use of international windows will allow the staff to review players who have not recently featured and determine whether they can meet the demands of the senior national team.

By widening the squad progressively, Eguavoen hopes Nigeria can maintain its established strength while preparing additional players for the challenges that lie ahead.

Nigeria forward Precious Oscar has called on supporters to continue backing the Flamingos after their 2-1 defeat by Poland in their opening Group B match at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.

The result gave Nigeria a disappointing start to their campaign in Rabat, Morocco, but Oscar said the team would regroup and focus on securing a place in the next round.

The forward acknowledged that the Flamingos had gone into the match determined to win, but were unable to produce the result they wanted. She urged her team-mates to stay united and organised as they prepare for their remaining group fixtures.

Oscar also asked Nigerian fans not to lose faith in the players, promising that the team would continue working hard to make the country proud.

Poland take advantage of defensive mistakes

Nigeria and Poland shared possession for much of the opening 30 minutes, before Poland were awarded a penalty in the 33rd minute.

The decision followed a review by the Video Support system after an incident involving a Nigerian defender and a Polish attacker. Wiktoria Skrzypczak converted from the spot to put Poland ahead.

The goal left Akeem Busari’s side needing to respond after the interval. Poland appeared to have extended their lead in the 63rd minute, but the effort was ruled out for offside.

Their second goal did arrive two minutes later, however, when Natalia Skrok capitalised on a poor clearance by the Nigerian defence to make it 2-0.

Busari responded by making two substitutions in the 68th minute. Oluebube Umejiaku and Awawu Bashiru replaced Harmony Chidi and Mary Dunstan.

The Nigeria head coach made two more changes 10 minutes later, sending on Kanyinsola Yusuf and Precious Oscar for Queen Joseph and Adesuyi.

Those changes brought greater energy to the Flamingos, and Yusuf made an immediate impact. She pulled a goal back in the 79th minute to give Nigeria renewed hope of rescuing a result.

Nigeria continued to press for an equaliser and appealed for a penalty in the 86th minute after an incident involving Kemi Adegbuyi. The referee reviewed the situation but stood by her original decision.

The Flamingos created further opportunities late in the match, yet could not find a second goal as Poland held on to claim all three points.

Puerto Rico next for Nigeria

Nigeria will attempt to recover from the defeat when they meet Puerto Rico in their next Group B fixture on Tuesday, October 20.

The Flamingos will complete their group-stage schedule against Korea DPR on Friday, October 23.

David Otorbi, the 19-year-old Spain and Nigeria international, is being linked with a move from Valencia to Newcastle.

The right winger has made eight La Liga appearances for Valencia this season, scoring once, as he continues his first campaign with the club’s senior side. He has started 22% of the matches in which he has featured and played 41% of the available minutes.

Otorbi moved up from Valencia B to the first team on 1 July 2026, having developed through the club’s academy. His current market value is €3.5m, while his contract with Valencia runs until 30 June 2028.

The reported interest would see Otorbi move from La Liga to the Premier League, although the available information does not indicate that an agreement has been reached or that a transfer fee has been negotiated.

Born in Valencia, Otorbi is listed as holding Spanish and Nigerian nationality. He plays predominantly on the right wing and is right-footed.

For now, Otorbi remains a Valencia player under contract until 2028, with the Newcastle link standing as a reported transfer possibility rather than a confirmed deal.

Nigeria international Fisayo Dele-Bashiru scored his first league goal of the season as Lazio stunned Juventus 3-0 away in Serie A on Sunday.

The 25-year-old came off the bench in the 69th minute to make his third appearance in the Italian top flight this campaign. He completed the scoring in the 89th minute after a powerful run from inside his own half.

Dele-Bashiru collected possession in his own half and advanced largely unchallenged before entering the penalty area and sending a low shot past Juventus goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario.

His performance earned him a rating of seven out of 10 from Yahoo Sports.

“The Nigerian was brought on to add some energy to the middle of the park, and he certainly did so, but he also decided to join the party by scoring Lazio’s third on the back of a glorious solo run,” the sports outlet wrote.

The victory underlined Lazio’s impressive start under head coach Gennaro Gattuso, who has described his team as a possible “surprise package”. Gattuso also stressed that the players must maintain their current approach and continue working hard.

Lazio have now gone unbeaten through their opening seven matches and sit on 19 points, level with Inter but behind them on goal difference.

It is the club’s best start after seven Serie A games. Their tally surpasses the 17 points collected by Sven-Goran Eriksson’s title-winning Lazio side in the 1999-2000 season.

Juventus, managed by Luciano Spalletti, remain on 11 points in eighth place. They are eight points behind the leaders and have won only one of their past five league matches.

Ranchers Bees have appointed experienced coach Ma’aji Muhammad as their new technical adviser after dismissing Usman Abd’allah following a poor start to the 2026/27 Nigeria Premier Football League season.

Abd’allah was removed from his position on Saturday after Ranchers Bees managed two wins, two draws and five defeats in their opening nine matches under his leadership.

The Kaduna-based club are 19th in the NPFL table with eight points, leaving them in the relegation zone and under pressure to improve their results.

Muhammad returns to the NPFL having most recently managed Niger Tornadoes. He was replaced by Kabiru Dogo at the start of the current campaign.

The new Ranchers Bees technical adviser has been given the task of reviving the club’s season and guiding them away from relegation danger.

His first match in charge will be against Doma United on Sunday, when Ranchers Bees host their opponents at the Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano. Muhammad will be hoping to begin his tenure with a result as the club seek a change in fortunes.

Warri Wolves captain David Joseph has described the Seasiders’ point in their 0-0 draw away to Enyimba as “precious” after Sunday’s EuroMatch/NPFL matchday nine fixture.

The result gave Warri Wolves their second away point of the 2026/2027 EuroMatch Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) campaign.

Their previous point on the road came in a 1-1 draw against Niger Tornadoes on matchday five at Bako Kotangora Stadium in Minna.

Joseph said the latest result was particularly valuable because it came against Enyimba, who are two-time African champions and nine-time winners of the domestic top flight.

“Precious! Precious, precious,” Joseph said during the post-match press conference.

“Considering the fact that our opponents are still below 15th position on the league table, we know that with this point we lift ourselves up the table while leaving them below where they were before this game.

“So, this point, for us, is very precious.”

Enyimba, known as the People’s Elephant, controlled much of the first half as Warri Wolves spent long periods defending and struggled to move forward.

The visitors improved after the interval and played with greater attacking intent, but neither side could find a goal before the final whistle.

Joseph agreed that Warri Wolves had opportunities to claim all three points, particularly when they broke forward.

“Of course, yes,” he said when asked whether he felt his side could have won.

“We tried to stay compact and wait for them on the break. If you observed very well, we had some counter-attacking opportunities that we should have finished well but, unfortunately, we couldn’t utilise them towards the twilight of the game.

“But all the same, we thank God for the point.”

The captain also explained that Warri Wolves’ cautious approach in the first half was part of their plan rather than a response to Enyimba’s dominance.

He said the Seasiders had intended to frustrate the home side before becoming more adventurous after the break.

“Yeah, it was our game plan keep it compact in the first half and frustrate them,” Joseph said.

“Then in the second half we can go for it on the counter, like I said earlier.”

The draw leaves both sides in the positions Joseph referenced during his assessment, with Warri Wolves gaining ground and Enyimba remaining below where they had been before the match.

By Sab Osuji

Doma United have been fined ?5.25m by the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) for failing to provide adequate and effective security during their Matchday Nine fixture against Kun Khalifat FC.

The match at Pantami Stadium last Saturday finished 1-1, but the game was followed by alleged misconduct involving home supporters.

Reports stated that Doma United supporters attacked Kun Khalifat FC technical adviser Obinna Uzoho after the final whistle. They were also accused of acting in a hostile manner towards match officials and members of the visiting team.

The NPFL considered the incidents serious enough to potentially bring the competition into disrepute.

In addition to the financial penalty, Doma United have been instructed to play their next three home matches behind closed doors. The sanction follows repeated security breaches involving the club.

The club, known as the Savannah Scorpions, have also been warned to improve their security arrangements and educate supporters about acceptable behaviour at matches.

The NPFL said any further breach of its rules and regulations could lead to more severe sanctions.

The match commissioner has meanwhile been recommended for demotion to the lower league. The recommendation relates to alleged dereliction of duty, inadequate supervision and insufficient reporting of the match.

Doma United have 48 hours from the date they are notified of the sanctions to lodge an appeal.

Former Nigeria defender Chikelue Iloenyosi has praised Rangers International for showing character and determination in their 2-0 win over MC Alger in the first leg of the CAF Champions League second preliminary round.

Rangers had to work hard against a disciplined Algerian defence but maintained their focus and persistence before scoring twice late in the match. The result gives the nine-time Nigerian champions an important advantage before the return leg in Algeria this weekend.

Iloenyosi, who is chairman of the Anambra State Football Association, described the performance as evidence of Rangers’ strength of character.

The former U-23 Olympic Eagles defender praised both the players and the technical crew for their discipline and courage, particularly after Rangers spent a significant part of the match with 10 men.

He also singled out the late goals scored by Kenneth Igboke and James Emo, saying they were deserved rewards for the team’s perseverance and commitment.

Iloenyosi said the victory showed that Nigerian clubs can compete with strong opposition on the continental stage.

“This is a commendable victory for Rangers and Nigerian football. To beat a strong team like MC Alger 2-0 in such difficult circumstances shows great character and determination,” Iloenyosi said.

“I congratulate the players, coaches, management and fans. They have made Enugu and Nigeria proud.”

The former defender, popularly known as ‘De General’, warned Rangers that their work was not yet complete and urged them to avoid complacency before the second leg.

“The team must remain humble and determined. With the same spirit and togetherness, they can finish the job and qualify for the group stage,” he added.

Iloenyosi expressed the hope that Rangers’ display would encourage other Nigerian clubs to set higher ambitions and approach continental competitions with greater confidence.

Rangers’ victory came despite the pressure created by MC Alger’s defensive organisation and the challenge of playing with 10 men for a considerable period. The two late goals, however, ensured the Coal City Flying Antelopes took a clear lead into the decisive return fixture.

The former Nigeria international said the result should be celebrated by the club’s players, coaches, management and supporters, while maintaining that concentration and collective effort would be essential in Algeria.

He added that Rangers’ performance had provided a positive example for Nigerian football and demonstrated the value of resilience in difficult matches.

Lionel Messi strengthened his position at the top of the Major League Soccer Golden Boot standings with two goals in Inter Miami’s 3-1 victory over Atlanta United on Saturday.

The Argentina legend now has 25 MLS goals this season, six more than his closest challengers, after scoring twice in the second half to help Miami claim a third consecutive win.

German Berterame put Inter Miami ahead in the 45th minute, with Messi credited with a secondary assist for the opening goal. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner then struck twice within four minutes after the interval.

Former Inter Miami forward Fafa Picault scored a late consolation for Atlanta United from the penalty spot.

Messi has also moved level with Son Heung-Min of Los Angeles FC for the most assists in the league this season, with both players on 15.

Messi takes control after half-time

Berterame’s goal gave Miami the lead shortly before the break, but Messi became the central figure after the restart.

He doubled the visitors’ advantage in the 56th minute after cutting in from the right wing and exchanging passes with Berterame close to the edge of the penalty area. Messi then beat an Atlanta defender before sending a low shot into the net.

Four minutes later, he added a second with another individual effort. Luis Suarez released Messi on a breakaway, and the forward took on a further defender before finishing with his left foot past Atlanta goalkeeper Lucas Hoyos.

The brace lifted Messi’s career goals tally to 936, moving him closer to the landmark of 1,000 goals. Inter Miami head coach Cristian “Kily” Gonzalez said Messi’s performance left him in awe.

Gonzalez believes Messi can reach 1,000 career goals, citing the forward’s continued appetite for new challenges.

Messi makes another mark in Atlanta

The match created another memorable occasion for Messi at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

It was his first appearance at the venue since Argentina’s dramatic victory over England in the 2026 World Cup semi-final in July. Messi provided two late assists in that match as Argentina secured victory.

His form has remained strong since he said farewell to the Argentina national team in a friendly against Benin earlier this month. He has scored four goals in his past three matches.

Inter Miami secured their place in the playoffs on Wednesday and are now second in the Eastern Conference behind runaway leaders Nashville. Saturday’s result extended their winning streak to three matches.

Atlanta United, managed by Gerardo “Tata” Martino, remain 14th in the Eastern Conference. Martino previously coached Messi at both Inter Miami and Argentina, but Atlanta face an uphill battle to qualify for the postseason.

Inter Miami’s next match is away to the New York Red Bulls next Saturday.

Manchester United have taken only seven points from their opening seven Premier League matches in 2026-27, their worst start to a first-division season since 1986 and one that has increased pressure on manager Michael Carrick.

United’s points return has not been lower at this stage since the 1921-22 campaign, when they had six points after seven matches and were eventually relegated to the Second Division. The club have also recorded their fewest wins in the first seven games since 1953-54, when they failed to win any of those matches.

The current run has revived memories of previous Manchester United teams whose poor beginnings led to relegation, managerial changes, narrow escapes and, in some cases, significant recovery.

Previous United seasons offer mixed warnings

In 1921-22, United’s six-point start preceded relegation in the club’s 26th Football League season. It was their first relegation since 1906.

The 1930-31 campaign was even worse. United lost their first 12 matches, won only seven games all season and finished with 22 points from 42 matches, with a goal difference of -62. Manager Herbert Bamlett was dismissed with six matches remaining, and club secretary Walter Crickmer took charge as acting manager.

United also struggled in 1938-39, collecting five points from their first six matches after one win, two draws and three defeats. Their only victory came against Birmingham City, and they eventually finished 14th. Walter Crickmer had taken over as manager midway through the previous season and remained in the role.

The 1953-54 side began with four points from seven games, drawing four and losing three. It was the worst start of Sir Matt Busby’s managerial career at the club, and United went eight matches without a win, but recovered to finish fourth.

A similar return came in 1972-73. Frank O’Farrell’s team lost to Ipswich Town, Liverpool and Everton, then went nine matches without victory before beating Derby County 3-0. O’Farrell was dismissed in December after a 5-0 defeat by Crystal Palace. Tommy Docherty replaced him, brought George Best back into the team and guided United to safety.

The 1969-70 campaign began with six points from seven matches following the departure of Sir Matt Busby after 24 years in charge. Wilf McGuinness waited until the seventh game, against Sunderland, for his first win. United recovered to finish eighth and reached the semi-finals of both the FA Cup and League Cup.

Carrick faces decisive spell

In 1986-87, United’s four points from seven matches, including defeats by Arsenal, West Ham United and Charlton Athletic, led to Ron Atkinson’s dismissal after a fourth-round League Cup loss to Southampton. Sir Alex Ferguson replaced him and guided the club to 11th.

Ferguson’s 1989-90 team also started with five points from seven games, recording two wins, one draw and four defeats. United finished 13th, but won the FA Cup after beating Crystal Palace 1-0 in a replay following a draw in the first match. The victory proved crucial to Ferguson’s future.

United’s current seven-point total therefore offers no fixed prediction. But unless performances and results improve, Carrick’s side risk turning a difficult opening into another damaging chapter in the club’s history.

Enugu Rangers have asked the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to order that their CAF Champions League return against MC Alger is played behind closed doors after alleging misconduct by supporters of the Algerian club.

The Nigerian champions submitted a formal petition to CAF’s Interclubs Competitions Organising Committee and Disciplinary Board following Sunday’s second preliminary round first-leg match at the Moshood Abiola Sports Complex in Abeokuta.

Rangers said MC Alger supporters broke down an entrance gate to enter the stadium, bypassed ticketing procedures and vandalised seats after the match.

The club described the incidents as a serious threat to spectator safety, stadium security and the protection of football infrastructure during continental competitions.

Rangers have therefore requested that Friday’s second leg, scheduled for October 23 in Algiers, be played without spectators as a precautionary measure.

They have also called on CAF to require MC Alger to provide adequate security guarantees for the visiting delegation and introduce effective crowd-control measures before the decisive fixture.

The petition follows a 2-0 victory for Fidelis Ilechukwu’s side in the first leg, with Kenneth Igboke and James Emo scoring late to give Rangers a two-goal lead.

The Flying Antelopes will now travel to Algeria seeking to preserve that advantage and complete their qualification for the lucrative group stage of the competition.

Warri Wolves manager Hassan Abdallah said his side’s fitness, disciplined possession and ability to use the smooth surface at Enyimba International Stadium Aba were key to their goalless draw against Enyimba.

The Seasiders claimed their second away draw of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season in Sunday’s Euromatch-NPFL 2026/2027 Matchday-9 fixture.

They had previously shared the points away to Niger Tornadoes in Minna on 25 September.

Abdallah said his knowledge of the pitch’s size and condition shaped Warri Wolves’ preparations and their approach to the match.

Warri Wolves prepared to dominate possession

Speaking at the post-match press conference, the coach said his players had been instructed to keep the ball moving and maintain their mobility throughout the game.

“You know, right from the start, we kept the ball moving and made sure it continued to roll,” Abdallah said.

“I’ve been training for fitness and ball possession ahead of this match because I knew this pitch. That’s why you saw us keeping the ball, knocking it around, and everyone was mobile. That is the secret behind this draw.”

The plan enabled Warri Wolves to retain possession and circulate the ball effectively as they secured a point at Enyimba.

Abdallah said the result reflected the work put in by his players before the match, particularly their preparation for the playing conditions in Aba.

Abdallah pleased with away result

The Warri Wolves manager said he was highly satisfied with the draw and praised his players for earning the result on the road.

“Well, I must say that I’m very, very happy with this draw we’ve secured here today because we worked for it. I give thanks to Almighty God.

“We really worked for this because the pitch is smooth, and we have talented players who can keep the ball. So, we planned for this game, and it worked out.”

Nasarawa United’s players have been given a ?1 million reward after their 2-0 victory over Inter Lagos at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, Lagos, on Sunday night.

The result was the Solid Miners’ first away victory of the 2026/27 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season and the biggest away win in the club’s history.

Kelechi Ogbobo put the visitors ahead in the 11th minute, and Ugochukwu Leonard extended their advantage five minutes later. Nasarawa United held on to complete a notable victory on the road.

Nasarawa State Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Jibril Abdullahi Ibrahim, and the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Stephen Iliya Sasetu, presented the reward to the team.

The payment recognised what the officials described as the players’ outstanding performance and the historic nature of the achievement.

The three points moved Mbwas Mangut’s side up to fifth in the NPFL table. They have 14 points from nine matches.

Nasarawa United will attempt to build on the result when they host nine-time league champions Enyimba in their Matchday 10 fixture on Sunday at Lafia City Stadium.

Golden Eaglets head coach Eboboritse Uwejamomere has apologised to Nigerians after the team were eliminated in the group stage of the 2026 WAFU B U-17 championship in Burkina Faso.

Nigeria’s failure to progress from the regional tournament also ended their hopes of qualifying for the 2027 U-17 AFCON in Morocco. As a result, the Golden Eaglets will not feature at the 2027 U-17 World Cup, having last appeared at the competition in 2019.

The Golden Eaglets needed victory against Cote d’Ivoire in their second Group A match on Saturday to reach the semi-finals. They had begun their campaign with a 2-1 defeat by Niger Republic.

However, they could only manage a 1-1 draw against Cote d’Ivoire, a result which confirmed their elimination from the competition.

Reflecting on the campaign, Uwejamomere said the outcome had left both the squad and coaching staff deeply disappointed.

“Obviously, the first impressions are unhappiness, disappointment. Now we are out of the tournament and the bigger picture is that we won’t go to the U-17 AFCON next year, so we are unhappy and very disappointed overall,” he said.

The coach urged his players, who are aged 15 and 16, to treat the experience as an opportunity to learn as they begin their careers in elite football.

“For my players, obviously young boys, 15, 16 year olds, they still have years ahead of them. This is like the first chapter of their career going into elite football,” he said.

“So it’s just to learn from this and use this as an experience going forward in their career.”

Uwejamomere also acknowledged the frustration felt by supporters in Nigeria, who had expected the team to win and qualify for the next stages of the tournament.

“For the fans back home, it’s a bitter feeling. A lot of them probably hate us right now but this is normal because they are fans, they are proud Nigerians, they want and they expect us to win every game, every tournament,” he said.

“Back home I will feel disappointed. The only thing I can say to them is to forgive us because the disappointment they feel I’m also feeling, my players are also feeling the same disappointment.”

Nigeria’s Golden Eaglets have been eliminated from the 2026 WAFU B Championship after drawing 1-1 with Cote d’Ivoire in Ouagadougou.

The five-time FIFA U-17 World Cup champions had already lost 2-1 to Niger, and the latest result leaves them bottom of their group. Their elimination also means Nigeria will miss the 2027 U-17 Africa Cup of Nations, which serves as a qualifying tournament for the FIFA U-17 World Cup.

It is the third successive U-17 AFCON the country has failed to reach, while the Golden Eaglets’ absence from the World Cup will continue beyond the exile that began after 2019.

The latest disappointment has exposed a wider decline in Nigeria’s youth football system, with concerns around administration, coaching, scouting and infrastructure all contributing to the team’s struggles.

Short-term planning and coaching concerns

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has frequently adopted a reactive approach to its age-grade teams. Players are commonly brought together for hurried screening camps only weeks before major competitions, rather than being developed through sustained programmes.

Former players and analysts have repeatedly criticised this “fire-brigade” approach, which has replaced the year-long camps associated with more successful periods. The absence of a clear, long-term development plan has weakened continuity and limited accountability, while political influence and last-minute decisions have disrupted the route from grassroots football to the national teams.

Technical leadership has also lacked consistency and modernisation. Coaching changes have often involved familiar names being recycled without rigorous performance assessments or sufficient investment in coach education.

Young coaches require continuing professional development, a shared playing philosophy across the age groups and enough time to put their methods into practice. Instead, short preparation periods leave limited opportunity to establish tactical understanding or build the physical conditioning needed to compete with better-organised opponents.

Scouting and facilities

Nigeria continues to produce large numbers of naturally talented players, but nationwide talent identification remains inconsistent. Scouting is often concentrated on brief trials instead of year-round observation in schools, community leagues and regional centres.

Some promising players are lost in unstructured environments, while others leave the country early without adequate developmental support. A stronger pathway would require trained scouts, data-supported monitoring and partnerships between academies and clubs, ensuring players are identified, tracked and progressed at an appropriate pace.

The shortage of quality training grounds, dedicated youth hostels, sports science provision and modern pitches is another obstacle. Many young players work in poor conditions that restrict their technical and physical development. A lack of stadiums has placed pressure on a small number of venues, while regional development centres remain underdeveloped.

Morocco’s Mohammed VI Football Academy and its regional network show what sustained investment, federation planning and government backing can achieve. Morocco has produced technically proficient players, senior World Cup success, multiple youth titles and strong domestic competition.

Senegal has developed a wide academy system and a clear route from U-17 to U-20 and senior football. Ghana has also continued to produce competitive youth teams through structured scouting and domestic youth programmes.

Nigeria’s past dominance demonstrated what preparation, discipline and organisation can deliver. Restoring that standard will require professional administration, performance-based coaching appointments, nationwide scouting linked to regional centres, and investment in pitches, sports science and player welfare.

Alex Iwobi says Fulham must use their 1-0 victory over Hull City as the starting point for a stronger Premier League campaign after ending their winless run on Saturday.

The Nigeria international scored the only goal of the match in the first half at Craven Cottage, securing three important points for the London club.

Fulham had been without a league victory this season, but their success against Hull has given Iwobi belief that the team can now regain momentum. The midfielder said their performances had not always been reflected in their results.

“The win was a long time coming. We have performed well even though the results spoke otherwise,” Iwobi told Fulham TV.

He also stressed the importance of carrying the result into Fulham’s next fixtures rather than treating it as an isolated success.

“The manager has asked us to keep going, and hopefully the luck will go our way. It has now started, so we just have to kick on and use this momentum for the rest of the season.”

Iwobi acknowledges Fulham’s finishing problems

Although Fulham secured all three points, Iwobi accepted that they could have made the result more comfortable by taking more of the chances they created.

The midfielder described the performance as convincing but said the team still needed to improve its finishing in front of goal.

“It was a convincing performance, even though the criticism, even for me, is that we could have scored more goals,” Iwobi added.

Fulham’s inability to convert opportunities has been a concern despite their ability to create openings. Iwobi believes that continuing to produce those chances should eventually lead to an improvement in their scoring record.

“As long as we’re creating the opportunities, we will score more goals.”

The clean sheet against Hull was another positive for Fulham, and Iwobi said defensive consistency could provide the platform for further victories.

“If we’re able to keep clean sheets like we did against Hull City, it will give us a chance to win games.”

The win ended Fulham’s wait for a Premier League victory this season and gave them a result to build on as they prepare for their upcoming fixtures.

Kano Pillars technical adviser Daniel Ogunmodede says winning remains his primary motivation after his side ended a five-match winless run with a 1-0 victory over Katsina United in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) on Sunday.

The decisive moment came at the Sani Abacha Stadium, where Sai Masu Gida scored a fine goal to secure all three points for the home side and delight the supporters.

The result brought relief to Kano Pillars after a difficult spell of form and provided a timely boost for the players, coaching staff and fans.

Ogunmodede praised his squad for maintaining their composure under pressure, particularly during the early stages of the match.

“I must congratulate the boys for putting up a brilliant fight. We had not tasted a win in the last five games, and they delivered in the derby,” he said.

“Congratulations to the team for breaking the jinx and winning for the coach and the fans. They were under a lot of pressure, especially at the start of the game.”

The Kano Pillars coach was also pleased with the balance between his team’s attacking play and defensive organisation, while highlighting the importance of keeping a clean sheet.

“That was a very good goal. We attacked well and defended well to get the maximum points with a clean sheet,” Ogunmodede added.

The victory was particularly significant because it ended a run without a win that had placed additional pressure on the team. Kano Pillars were able to hold on to their narrow advantage and claim the maximum points against Katsina United.

Ogunmodede said the expectation of winning was central to his role and had remained a constant throughout his career.

“It is part of my job to win. I like winning because that is what I am paid for. For three decades now, winning has always been my motive,” he stated.

Kano Pillars technical adviser Daniel Ogunmodede says winning remains his primary motivation after his side ended a five-match winless run with a 1-0 victory over Katsina United in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) on Sunday.

The decisive moment came at the Sani Abacha Stadium, where Sai Masu Gida scored a fine goal to secure all three points for the home side and delight the supporters.

The result brought relief to Kano Pillars after a difficult spell of form and provided a timely boost for the players, coaching staff and fans.

Ogunmodede praised his squad for maintaining their composure under pressure, particularly during the early stages of the match.

“I must congratulate the boys for putting up a brilliant fight. We had not tasted a win in the last five games, and they delivered in the derby,” he said.

“Congratulations to the team for breaking the jinx and winning for the coach and the fans. They were under a lot of pressure, especially at the start of the game.”

The Kano Pillars coach was also pleased with the balance between his team’s attacking play and defensive organisation, while highlighting the importance of keeping a clean sheet.

“That was a very good goal. We attacked well and defended well to get the maximum points with a clean sheet,” Ogunmodede added.

The victory was particularly significant because it ended a run without a win that had placed additional pressure on the team. Kano Pillars were able to hold on to their narrow advantage and claim the maximum points against Katsina United.

Ogunmodede said the expectation of winning was central to his role and had remained a constant throughout his career.

“It is part of my job to win. I like winning because that is what I am paid for. For three decades now, winning has always been my motive,” he stated.

Kano Pillars technical adviser Daniel Ogunmodede says winning remains his primary motivation after his side ended a five-match winless run with a 1-0 victory over Katsina United in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) on Sunday.

The decisive moment came at the Sani Abacha Stadium, where Sai Masu Gida scored a fine goal to secure all three points for the home side and delight the supporters.

The result brought relief to Kano Pillars after a difficult spell of form and provided a timely boost for the players, coaching staff and fans.

Ogunmodede praised his squad for maintaining their composure under pressure, particularly during the early stages of the match.

“I must congratulate the boys for putting up a brilliant fight. We had not tasted a win in the last five games, and they delivered in the derby,” he said.

“Congratulations to the team for breaking the jinx and winning for the coach and the fans. They were under a lot of pressure, especially at the start of the game.”

The Kano Pillars coach was also pleased with the balance between his team’s attacking play and defensive organisation, while highlighting the importance of keeping a clean sheet.

“That was a very good goal. We attacked well and defended well to get the maximum points with a clean sheet,” Ogunmodede added.

The victory was particularly significant because it ended a run without a win that had placed additional pressure on the team. Kano Pillars were able to hold on to their narrow advantage and claim the maximum points against Katsina United.

Ogunmodede said the expectation of winning was central to his role and had remained a constant throughout his career.

“It is part of my job to win. I like winning because that is what I am paid for. For three decades now, winning has always been my motive,” he stated.