Shooting Stars SC technical adviser Salisu Yusuf says he left Benin Republic top-flight club Coton FC by mutual agreement before returning to Nigeria.

The 64-year-old had signed a two-year contract with Coton FC ahead of the 2025/2026 season, after helping Nasarawa United avoid relegation in the 2024/2025 EuroMatch–NPFL campaign.

Yusuf, who has also managed Rangers and Kano Pillars, oversaw a successful 2025/2026 campaign with the Beninese club before ending his spell there. He subsequently returned to Nigeria and took charge of Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) of Ibadan.

Speaking to Completesports.com before Shooting Stars’ 2–0 defeat by Kun Khalifat in last Sunday’s 2026/2027 EuroMatch–NPFL Matchday 8 fixture in Owerri, Yusuf said his departure was not prompted by a dispute with the club.

“Yes, it’s true that I had an initial two-year contract with Coton FC. But I left them by mutual agreement,” Salisu said.

The former Super Eagles head coach said he had maintained a positive relationship with Coton FC’s hierarchy and had worked in a healthy environment during his time at the club.

He explained that circumstances surrounding the club changed after Patrice Talon, the former President of Benin Republic, left office in May 2026.

Coton FC is owned by Lionel Talon, Patrice Talon’s eldest son. Following his father’s departure, the club’s owner decided not to continue operating the team at a high-profile level.

“So, at that point, we decided and agreed to part ways,” Yusuf added.

Coton FC remains in the Benin Republic’s top division, but the club has since shifted its focus towards identifying and developing players. The side now operates more like a football academy.

Yusuf opted for Shooting Stars

After returning to Nigeria, Yusuf said he received interest from several unnamed Nigeria Premier Football League clubs.

Despite those approaches, he chose to join Shooting Stars, who appointed him as their new technical adviser.

“But eventually, I decided to come over to Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC),” he concluded.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino is facing renewed scrutiny after documents showed he received an additional $1.72 million in 2024 from FWC2026, the United States-based entity established by FIFA to manage and operate the 2026 World Cup.

The payment appears in FWC2026’s latest publicly available United States Internal Revenue Service (IRS) filing, covering the 2024 financial year. It was not included in FIFA’s 2024 annual report, which listed Infantino’s salary and benefits at 4.274 million Swiss francs, approximately $4.86 million.

The omission has raised questions over whether FIFA fully disclosed the president’s total compensation and whether payments made through associated entities fall under the organisation’s governance requirements.

FIFA’s statutes, under Article 43, paragraph 13, set out the responsibilities of the Compensation Sub-Committee and require public disclosure of the FIFA president’s individual compensation. The available documents do not establish a definitive legal or regulatory breach.

A FIFA spokesperson, contacted by text message, rejected suggestions that the organisation had violated its rules. The response did not explain in detail why the payment was absent from the 2024 annual report.

The disclosure comes as FIFA prepares for the 2026 World Cup, which is being hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Investment plan adds to pressure

Infantino had already faced criticism over a reported proposal to sell a 20 per cent stake in the World Cup to outside investors.

The plan, known as Football Forward Enterprises (FFP), involved attracting external investment into the tournament. The proposed investors were led by Joshua Kushner, the younger brother of Jared Kushner, who is the son-in-law of United States President Donald Trump.

Infantino has maintained close ties with Trump ahead of the tournament and has made regular visits to the White House. The investment proposal prompted concerns over FIFA’s commercial strategy and the relationships surrounding its leadership.

The proposal also led the heads of UEFA, Concacaf and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) to demand Infantino’s resignation. UEFA threatened to boycott future FIFA events.

The FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup, which concluded in September, nevertheless went ahead as scheduled. Infantino later wrote to confederation leaders and agreed to a proposal to distribute $10 million to each FIFA member association in an attempt to ease tensions.

Balogun decision criticised

Infantino has also been criticised over his handling of a disciplinary case involving United States forward Folarin Balogun.

Balogun was sent off during the United States’ 2-0 win against Bosnia and Herzegovina in the round of 32 and was expected to miss the round-of-16 match against Belgium. After Trump reportedly called Infantino about the suspension, Balogun was placed on probation and allowed to play.

The United States lost the match 4-1.

FIFA’s next Council meeting is scheduled for Thursday in Zurich. It is not known whether the payment will be discussed or whether FIFA will provide a fuller explanation.

The IRS filing establishes that Infantino received $1.72 million from FWC2026 in 2024, separate from his regular FIFA remuneration. FIFA denies breaking its statutes, while Maduro has argued that compensation paid through related entities should be fully transparent.

Former Plateau United midfielder Kazeem Adeyanju has joined South African Premier Soccer League club Stellenbosch on a free transfer.

The Nigerian midfielder, who played for Plateau United in the Nigeria Premier Football League last season, has been cleared to represent Stellenbosch during the 2026/27 campaign.

Stellenbosch confirmed the move after completing all the required formalities last month.

“Adeyanju Kazeem, who most recently plied his trade in the Nigerian PFL with Plateau United,” has joined the club, Stellenbosch said in an announcement.

Adeyanju becomes the fifth Nigerian player to represent Stellenbosch. He follows Stanley Dimgba, Ibraheem Jabaar, Kazie Enyinnaya and Olisa Ndah.

The 2026/27 season will see Adeyanju wear the number 29 shirt for the South African club.

He could make his debut on Tuesday evening, when Stellenbosch face Kaizer Chiefs in the Betway Premiership.

Shakiru Giwa has resigned as head coach of Inter Lagos after the club’s difficult opening to their first Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season.

Inter Lagos confirmed Giwa’s departure on Tuesday in a statement published on the club’s official X account. He is the first manager to leave his position during the ongoing NPFL campaign.

The club are bottom of the league table with two points after eight matches and are yet to win a game since making their debut in the competition.

Inter Lagos thanked Giwa for his work, with particular recognition for his role in guiding the club to promotion from the Nigeria National League (NNL) to the NPFL.

The club said that achievement represented a major milestone in its history and an important stage in its development.

“Coach Giwa has been an important part of the club’s journey, most notably leading Inter Lagos to promotion from the Nigeria National League, NNL, to the Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL,” the statement read.

“The club expresses its sincere appreciation for his dedication, commitment and contribution to this historic achievement. His role in guiding Inter Lagos to the NPFL will remain a valuable part of the club’s history.

“As both parties move forward, Inter Lagos FC wishes Coach Giwa every success in his future coaching endeavours.”

Giwa’s exit follows a sequence of results that has left the newly promoted side struggling at the foot of the table. Inter Lagos have collected only two points from their first eight fixtures and remain without a victory.

His departure also makes him the first coaching casualty of the current NPFL season.

Plateau United goalkeeper Okiemute Odah has called on his team-mates to sustain their strong run after their emphatic 4-0 victory over Kano Pillars in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).

The Peace Boys produced a commanding display at the New Jos Stadium last Sunday, inflicting Kano Pillars’ first defeat of the season.

Paul Samson and Ekundayo Ojo scored before half-time to put Plateau United in control. Samuel Ayanrinde and Nenrot Silas added further goals after the interval to complete a comprehensive victory.

Odah said the result would only be valuable if Plateau United could build on it during the remainder of the campaign.

“I want to thank my teammates and the coaches because it’s a collective effort. The result against Kano Pillars is good for us, and if we continue like this, we will do even better,” Odah told Plateau United’s media.

The goalkeeper also appealed to the club’s supporters to continue backing the team as they pursue more points.

“I want to urge the fans to keep supporting us so that we can do it, and we will make them proud.”

Plateau United, managed by Gbenga Ogunbote, are third in the NPFL standings with 14 points from eight matches.

They will attempt to extend their winning run when they host Sporting Lagos in their next league fixture on Sunday.

Uchenna Kanu says Nigeria’s Super Falcons are focused on beating Comoros again and scoring as many goals as possible as they look to advance in the 2028 Olympic Games qualifying campaign.

The Super Falcons take a 2-0 lead into the second leg of their second-round tie after winning the opening match.

Michelle Alozie and Kanu scored in the first leg for the 10-time African champions, leaving Nigeria in a strong position before the return fixture.

Kanu said the team’s ambition extends beyond qualification, with the forward determined to compete for Olympic success.

“Playing on a big stage like the Olympics is huge for me personally. We have a goal not just to make it to the Olympics, but also to look at the trophy,” she said.

The Nigeria international believes the Super Falcons’ preparations have put them in a good position to complete the job against Comoros.

“We have a good team, we’ve been preparing and we’ve been doing well. We want to win, like the coach said, and score as many goals as possible,” Kanu added.

The forward also highlighted Nigeria’s record of reaching major tournaments and said the squad was fully committed to securing Olympic qualification.

“The Super Falcons team is one that has done so much when it comes to football and qualifying for major tournaments. Qualifying for the Olympics is something that we are looking forward to, and we are all ready for it.”

A second victory over Comoros would allow Nigeria to progress from the tie with a 4-0 aggregate score, while maintaining their pursuit of a place at the 2028 Olympic Games.

The Super Falcons are seeking a return to the Olympic football tournament and will aim to build on the advantage established in the first leg when the teams meet again.

Nigeria international Frank Onyeka was praised for his impact as Coventry City recorded a convincing 4-1 victory over Newcastle United in Monday’s Premier League fixture.

Onyeka was introduced for the final 12 minutes but helped Coventry City secure consecutive wins in the English top flight this season. The midfielder was awarded a rating of 6.5/7 out of 10 by the Coventry Telegraph for his contribution.

Assessing his performance, the publication wrote: “Added steel and fresh legs to help see out the result.”

The appearance was Onyeka’s fifth Premier League outing of the season for newly promoted Coventry City. His Nigerian team-mate Taiwo Awoniyi was unavailable for Frank Lampard’s side because of suspension.

Coventry City took control of the match with an early goal in each half. Jack Rudoni opened the scoring before Sidiki Cherif struck after the interval, putting the hosts on course for a notable first Premier League win at the CBS Arena.

Newcastle United reduced the deficit 20 minutes from time, raising the possibility of a late comeback. However, Coventry City restored their advantage through substitute Ellis Simms in the 81st minute.

Another substitute, Stephen Mfuni, added a fourth five minutes later to complete a decisive win and secure all three points for the Sky Blues.

The result moved Coventry City up to 14th in the Premier League table with six points. Newcastle United remain 11th on eight points.

For Onyeka, the match provided another opportunity to contribute to Coventry City’s strong start after their promotion to the Premier League. Although his involvement was limited, his energy and defensive work in the closing stages earned recognition as the home side finished the match comfortably.

Taiwo Awoniyi’s suspension meant he could not be involved as Coventry City continued their progress under Lampard. The victory also gave the club back-to-back league wins and lifted them above several sides in the early standings.

Super Falcons interim head coach Augustine Eguavoen wants Nigeria to turn their first-leg advantage into a second victory when they face Comoros in the return fixture of their 2028 Olympic Games qualifying tie on Tuesday.

Nigeria, the 10-time African champions, won the opening match 2-0 last Saturday and will now host Comoros at the Remo Stars Sports Complex in Ikenne.

Eguavoen is focused on securing another win rather than simply protecting the lead, as Nigeria look to complete a double over their opponents and move closer to the next stage of qualification.

“We are enjoying a two-goal advantage, but we will try as much as possible to see how we can wrap it up by winning tomorrow’s game. Maybe one, maybe two, maybe three,” Eguavoen told reporters at a press conference.

“I’m interested in goals, but the structure of the team is what I’m really interested in. The bottom line is to win, and we will try to do that.”

Changes expected for second leg

Eguavoen also indicated that he could make changes to the side, with a number of players competing for the chance to feature in the second leg.

The interim coach said 27 of the 28 players invited to camp are available, while about 14 of them received their first invitation to the national team.

The technical staff are aiming to increase the number of players available for future matches, particularly as the qualifying campaign becomes more demanding.

“Twenty-eight players were invited, and 27 are in camp, with about 14 first-time invitees. We’re trying to have a very big pool, so that when the games become tougher, we have maybe 40 players to draw from,” he said.

Eguavoen said he had been encouraged by the standard of work in camp and praised Joy Igbokwe for her performance.

He added that other members of the squad could also be given an opportunity against Comoros, with competition for places providing a positive challenge for the coaching staff.

“I’m very pleased with Joy Igbokwe’s performance. Likewise, you might see some other players tomorrow. Performance-wise, the players have been very good.

“It’s a good challenge for the coach when you have players in abundance and everyone is ready to play.”

Sporting Lagos head coach Jeffrey Buter says the return of Odinaka Okoro and the recent form of Victor Samuel have strengthened his squad ahead of their Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Matchday 9 meeting with Plateau United.

Samuel played a decisive role in Sporting Lagos’ latest victory after Bendel Insurance took the lead just 18 seconds into the match.

The forward brought his side level before Gafar Olaniyan completed the comeback, securing all three points for Sporting Lagos in front of their home supporters.

Buter was particularly pleased with Samuel’s contribution, having seen the player respond to an early setback with an influential performance.

“I’m really happy for Samuel after what he has gone through. He is a dynamic player,” Buter said.

The manager also welcomed the availability of Okoro, who has returned to the squad after a period on the sidelines with injury.

“Odinaka Okoro is back in the team after some time out. As a young lad, I am happy for him too,” he added.

Sporting Lagos now turn their attention to a Plateau United side that will provide a different challenge in their next league fixture. The match will also see Buter face Shola Adegun, a former colleague and friend who is now part of Plateau United’s technical setup.

Buter said their previous working relationship had added interest to the encounter, although his focus remained on preparing Sporting Lagos for the fixture.

“We go back and prepare ahead of Plateau United on Matchday 9, with Shola Adegun, who is a friend and colleague. We shared the dugout, and he is now with Plateau United,” he explained.

Super Eagles striker Akor Adams featured for Venezia as they suffered a sixth consecutive defeat in Serie A, losing 3-1 to Atalanta on Monday. Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The Nigerian forward made his sixth appearance in the Italian top flight since joining Venezia from Sevilla during the summer, having scored once so far this season.

Atalanta, who entered the encounter after three successive league defeats, made an explosive start, taking the lead in the fourth minute through Franck Kessie, who raced onto Nikola Krstovic’s pass before lifting the ball over goalkeeper Filip Stankovic.

Krstovic extended the advantage just three minutes later, rising to meet Eljif Elmas’ corner and directing his header into the net.

The hosts struck again in the 31st minute when Krstovic reacted quickest to a rebound after Stankovic had saved Jonathan Rowe’s effort, completing his brace and putting Atalanta firmly in control.

Venezia pulled one back six minutes later through Antoine Hainaut, who headed home Richie Sagrado’s cross to reduce the deficit before the break. However, the visitors could not find another goal to change the outcome.

The victory lifted Atalanta to 10th place with nine points from six matches, while Venezia remained bottom of the standings without a point after six games.

Adams returned to club duty following an impressive contribution for Nigeria during the international break, scoring a stoppage-time equaliser in the Super Eagles’ 3-3 friendly draw against Russia.

Nigeria had trailed 3-1 before the late comeback, with Adams finding the net to help secure a draw for the three-time African champions.

The striker will now hope to help Venezia turn their difficult start to the Serie A campaign around as they seek their first points of the season.

The Nationwide League One (NLO) Secretariat has instructed clubs participating in the NLO Cup to improve security at their home venues, ensure proper ground preparation and prominently display pitch-side panels bearing their names, partners and sponsors. Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

In a directive issued to participating clubs, the Secretariat emphasised the need for adequate security arrangements, well-maintained facilities and thorough match-day preparations to ensure the smooth conduct of the competition.

Clubs have also been told to keep their playing surfaces, dressing rooms and other supporting facilities in good condition and ready for use throughout the tournament.

The NLO further highlighted the commercial value of pitch-side branding, urging clubs to use the opportunity to give their sponsors greater visibility, strengthen existing partnerships and attract potential investors.

The Secretariat warned that compliance with the directive is compulsory, adding that clubs that fail to meet the requirements for ground preparation, security or the display of the designated pitch panels could face sanctions from the Competition Organising Committee.

All participating teams have therefore been urged to make the necessary arrangements ahead of their matches, with the NLO stressing the importance of safety, professionalism and improved standards in Nigerian grassroots football.

Rivers United technical manager Finidi George has praised his team's consistency in the 2026/2027 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season but admitted that the demanding fixture schedule is beginning to affect his defenders. Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The Pride of Rivers extended their unbeaten run to eight league matches after playing out a goalless draw against Abia Warriors at the Enyimba International Stadium in Aba on Sunday.

The result took Rivers United to 16 points, leaving them second on the table, just one point behind leaders Rangers.

Finidi acknowledged the effort his players have put in since the start of the campaign, despite their disappointment in the CAF Champions League.

“I think we’ve really worked hard this season. We haven’t lost a match, despite the fact that we’ve been knocked out of the (2026/2027) CAF Champions League,” Finidi said at the post-match press conference.

The former Super Eagles winger was pleased with his team's defensive organisation but warned that the number of matches played could necessitate changes to keep the squad fresh.

“Yeah, I think the defence is doing well, but we still have to monitor the defenders properly because the accumulation of matches is beginning to take its toll. We’ll see if others can come in and perform at the same level,” he said.

The Rivers United manager also stressed that every point could prove crucial in the race for the title, recalling how his side narrowly missed out on the championship last season.

“If I’m happy with the draw? Sometimes, at the end of the season, all these points will count for a lot, you know. Last season, we lost the league title by just one point. So, let’s see if this time around, we can maintain this form for a little longer,” he said.

Assessing the performance against Abia Warriors, Finidi admitted that his team struggled for consistency after the break but was satisfied with their ability to earn a point away from home against a difficult opponent.

“The second half was off and on for us. But coming here to get a point on the road against a difficult side — a lot of teams might have lost here by a big goal margin — and for us to come here and even control the game, trying to see how we could score a goal, which didn’t happen, says something,” he said.

“But these are things that happen in football. All the same, we’re quite happy with the point, and we’ll build on it,” Finidi concluded.

Rivers United will now look to preserve their unbeaten record as the NPFL campaign continues, with squad management likely to be important as the fixtures accumulate.

Turkish club Bursaspor are reportedly interested in signing Nigerian winger Henry Onyekuru, with compatriot Kelechi Iheanacho said to have encouraged the club to consider a move for the former Super Eagles forward.

Iheanacho is believed to have spoken positively about Onyekuru and recommended him to the club’s management as Bursaspor explore ways to strengthen their attacking options.

The Turkish side reportedly rate Onyekuru highly and see the experienced winger as a potential addition who could bring quality and familiarity with the demands of the domestic game.

Onyekuru previously featured for Turkish clubs Galatasaray and Adana Demirspor, giving him experience of the country’s football environment that could prove useful if negotiations progress.

However, details of any potential transfer remain unclear, with no confirmed information available on formal negotiations or whether the winger is interested in joining Bursaspor.

A move would potentially bring two Nigerian internationals together at the Turkish club, with Iheanacho reportedly keen to see Onyekuru become part of the squad as Bursaspor look to strengthen ahead of their upcoming challenges.

Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone has backed Ademola Lookman to rediscover his best form, despite acknowledging that the Super Eagles forward has yet to meet the expectations of both himself and the Spanish club.

Speaking ahead of Atletico Madrid’s UEFA Champions League clash against Manchester United, Simeone expressed confidence in the Nigerian winger, pointing to his commitment in training and ability to take on opponents despite his recent struggles.

“Ademola isn't at the level he wants or we want, but he works hard every day,” Simeone said.

"He's a dribbler, and he needs to lose the ball sometimes. I believe in him.”

Lookman joined Atletico Madrid from Atalanta and is expected to remain an important attacking option for the Spanish side as they prepare for their European assignment against Manchester United.

Simeone’s remarks underline his continued support for the Nigerian international, even as he acknowledges that the forward has yet to produce the level of performance expected at the club.

The Atletico boss appears willing to give Lookman room to express himself on the pitch, recognising that his dribbling style naturally involves taking risks and occasionally losing possession.

Lookman will now hope to repay his manager’s faith with stronger performances as Atletico Madrid pursue their Champions League ambitions.

Nigeria’s Future Eagles will begin preparations for the FIFA U-15 World Cup and Festival in Azerbaijan, with head coach Patrick Bassey inviting 23 players to camp ahead of the international tournament.

The competition is scheduled to hold in Baku from October 22 to 31, 2026, giving the young Nigerians an opportunity to test themselves against international opposition and showcase their potential.

The invited players have been directed to report to the NFF/FIFA Goal Project Hostel inside the MKO Abiola National Stadium in Abuja on Tuesday, October 13, for the start of the training camp.

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has also instructed the players to bring suitable football boots for artificial turf, which will be used during training in Abuja and Baku, as well as for matches at the tournament.

Relevant State Football Associations, clubs, academies, schools and parents or guardians have been urged to ensure that the invited players are personally accompanied to the camp.

Bassey, who is associated with Bichi First FC and has experience in youth football development, will work alongside assistants Husaini Lawan Umar and Augustine Iyamu as the team prepares for the competition.

The 23-man squad features players from various academies, schools, youth teams and the NFF Talent Development Scheme (TDS), reflecting the range of young talents selected for the assignment.

The team comprises two goalkeepers, seven defenders, seven midfielders and seven forwards.

Full List of Invited Players

Goalkeepers

Victor Wisdom, Eagles Wings Academy, Abuja

Peter Linus, HB Academy, Abuja

Defenders

Daniel Olaomi, Eagles Wings Academy

Prosperity Anionovo, Buruj Football Academy, Lagos

Timothy Ijachi, Mavlon FC, Lagos

David Okwusogu, NFF TDS

Michael Ibironke, NFF TDS

Sani Bello, Greenlock Academy

Mabub Akinlabi, Utmost FC

Midfielders

Abdulsalam Muhammad, Simonben Academy, Kaduna

Martin Chukwu, AS Roma Academy, Abuja

Ayomide Jekami, NFF TDS

Mayowa Salu, NFF TDS

Baasit Bolaji Abdullahi, Chrisland High School

Emmanuel Olagoke, 3SC Youth Team, Ibadan

Malik Abdulkareem, NFF TDS

Forwards

Samuel Akinde, Utmost FC

Abdulrazak Mufutau, 12Alive FC, Ibadan

Wisdom Oche, Shakhandam Academy, Abuja

Wisdom Boniface, Adoration Academy, Enugu

Samuel Amodu, NFF TDS

Bello Shittu, Greenlock Academy

Daniel Pamfey, Gwol FC, Jos

The Future Eagles will hope to make the most of their time in camp as they prepare to represent Nigeria in Baku and gain valuable experience on the international stage.

Shooting Stars head coach Salisu Yusuf is facing increasing scrutiny after a disappointing run of results left the Ibadan club 17th in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) table after eight matches.

The Oluyole Warriors have collected just eight points from their opening eight fixtures, raising concerns among supporters about the team’s form and its ability to move away from the bottom of the table.

Shooting Stars have gone three league matches without a win, recording consecutive goalless draws at home before suffering a 2-0 defeat away to Kun Khalifat.

Nasarawa United held the Ibadan side at the Lekan Salami Stadium on Matchday Six, before Kano Pillars also left the venue with a point following another 0-0 stalemate on Matchday Seven.

Their struggles continued in Owerri on Matchday Eight, where goals from Chukwuma Agor and Uchechukwu Onuoha handed Kun Khalifat a 2-0 victory at the Dan Anyiam Stadium.

The defeat further increased the pressure on Yusuf, with supporters reportedly growing frustrated by the team’s inability to turn their performances into victories.

Concerns have centred on Shooting Stars’ lack of goals, their failure to make home advantage count and defensive lapses that have contributed to their recent setbacks.

Yusuf has also acknowledged the team’s defensive shortcomings. Following the loss to Kun Khalifat, the former Enyimba manager criticised his players’ performance at the back and indicated that changes to the defensive line could be considered.

The experienced tactician previously guided Nigeria’s home-based Super Eagles to a silver medal at the African Nations Championship (CHAN), but he now faces the task of restoring confidence and improving Shooting Stars’ results.

With the season still in its early stages, the Ibadan club have an opportunity to turn their campaign around. However, they will need to find greater attacking consistency and tighten up defensively to climb away from the relegation zone.

Whether the club’s management will continue to back Yusuf or consider a change in technical leadership remains uncertain as pressure continues to build.

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle is reportedly unhappy with delays in finalising a proposed improved contract that would increase his monthly salary from $50,000 to $75,000.

The Franco-Malian coach had reportedly hoped to conclude negotiations before Nigeria’s crucial 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying double-header against Tanzania in November, with the Super Eagles needing positive results to strengthen their campaign.

Nigeria are scheduled to host Tanzania in Uyo on November 11 before travelling for the return fixture four days later. The matches have taken on added importance following Nigeria’s disappointing 3-0 defeat to Guinea-Bissau in their previous qualifying outing.

Reports suggest Chelle is frustrated that the proposed agreement has not been formally completed, despite an alleged understanding between him and Nigerian football authorities.

The delay has reportedly been linked to the resignation of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) executive committee, which disrupted the process of concluding the new deal.

However, the NFF and the National Sports Commission (NSC) are said to have held discussions and reached an understanding on an improved remuneration package for the former Mali national team coach. The reported terms are yet to be formalised through a signed agreement.

Chelle’s current monthly salary is reportedly $50,000, while the proposed increase would take his earnings to $75,000, subject to the final terms being agreed and signed.

The reported expiry date of his existing contract remains unclear, with claims that it runs until January 2026 raising questions given that the date has already passed.

With Nigeria preparing for two important qualifiers, resolving the uncertainty surrounding Chelle’s contract could provide clarity for the coaching staff as they work towards getting the Super Eagles’ campaign back on track.

Super Eagles midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru has returned to competitive action after recovering from a thigh injury, coming off the bench as Lazio defeated Monza 3-1 in the Italian Serie A on Sunday, October 11, 2026.

The Nigerian international entered the game in the 60th minute at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome, replacing Davide Frattesi as Lazio secured all three points.

Dele-Bashiru had been out of action since sustaining a right-thigh injury during Lazio’s 1-0 victory over Bologna on August 24. Initial reports indicated that the problem involved a tear that was expected to keep him sidelined for several weeks.

Lazio made a flying start to Sunday's encounter, with Nuno Tavares opening the scoring in the third minute before Gustav Isaksen extended their lead in the 23rd minute.

Monza reduced the deficit immediately after the restart through Saba Goglichidze, but Andrea Pinamonti restored Lazio’s two-goal advantage with a late strike in the 88th minute to seal the victory.

Dele-Bashiru’s return comes at an important time for Nigeria as the Super Eagles prepare for their November 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches against Tanzania.

The midfielder missed previous international assignments while recovering from the injury, and his return to fitness could give head coach Eric Chelle another option in the middle of the park.

He will now look to build on his first appearance since the setback, regain full match fitness and establish himself in Lazio’s plans for the remainder of the campaign.

The Super Falcons will look to complete their job against Comoros on Tuesday and secure a place in the third round of the African qualifying series for the 2028 Olympic Games.

Nigeria hold a 2-0 advantage from Friday’s first leg at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne-Remo, where defender Michelle Alozie and forward Uchenna Kanu scored to put the 10-time African champions in control of the tie.

The Falcons are seeking to qualify for a second consecutive Olympic Games after ending a 16-year absence from the women’s football tournament at Paris 2024.

Comoros’ lack of a Confederation of African Football (CAF)-approved venue for international matches means both legs are being played in Nigeria, with Tuesday’s return fixture also scheduled for Ikenne-Remo.

Interim head coach Augustine Eguavoen and his technical crew could use the encounter to assess other members of the squad after naming a strong starting line-up for the opening leg.

Chiamaka Nnadozie started in goal on Friday, with Glory Ogbonna and Alozie operating as wing-backs, while Christy Ucheibe and Shukurat Oladipo featured in central defence.

Debutant Joy Igbokwe partnered Toni Payne and Jennifer Echegini in midfield, while captain Rasheedat Ajibade, Gift Monday and Kanu led the attack.

With a two-goal cushion, Eguavoen could make changes to his starting eleven, offering opportunities to players who did not feature from the beginning in the first leg.

Young goalkeeper Christiana Uzoma could be considered for a starting role, while Farida Abdulwahab and Tumininu Adeshina are among the defensive alternatives available to the coaching crew.

Suliat Abideen, who impressed after coming on in the second half of Friday’s match, is another candidate for a starting place.

In attack, former Nigeria U-17 captain Shakirat Moshood and Folashade Ijamilusi could be given opportunities, alongside Belarus-based duo Blessing Nkor and Blessing Okpe, as well as Sweden-based forward Joy Omewa.

A successful outcome on Tuesday would send Nigeria into the third qualifying round, where they are scheduled to meet Morocco in March 2027.

The Falcons will be determined to finish the tie strongly and keep their hopes of qualifying for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games on course.

Nigeria midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru made his return from a thigh injury as Lazio beat Monza 3-1 in the Italian Serie A on Sunday, October 11, 2026.

The Super Eagles international was introduced in the 60th minute at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome, replacing Davide Frattesi and giving Lazio another option in midfield.

Dele-Bashiru had been out since injuring his right thigh during Lazio’s 1-0 victory over Bologna on August 24. The injury was reported to involve a tear, with the midfielder expected to miss several weeks.

Lazio made a fast start against Monza, taking the lead through Nuno Tavares in the third minute. Gustav Isaksen extended their advantage in the 23rd minute before Monza reduced the deficit shortly after half-time through Saba Goglichidze.

Andrea Pinamonti restored Lazio’s two-goal lead with a goal in the 88th minute to complete the victory.

Dele-Bashiru’s comeback comes at an important time for Nigeria, who are preparing for a 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying double-header against Tanzania in November.

The midfielder missed Nigeria’s previous international assignments while recovering from the injury. His return now gives head coach Eric Chelle another midfield option ahead of the qualifiers.

Lazio will also welcome Dele-Bashiru’s availability as he works towards regaining full match fitness and re-establishing his place in the team.

The report was published by BSNSports. Niyi Busari is the publisher and chief executive officer of BSN Sports Concept.