Monday, 30 September 2013

W/African title:: Nigeria's Great Jude faces Ghanaian boxer, Musa in Lagos

AS Nigerians celebrate the 53rd Independence anniversary across the country on Tuesday, October 1, the place to be remains the Brai Ayonote Boxing Gymnasium inside the National Stadium, Lagos as Jude Ilo battles with Sidiq Musa of Ghana for the West African Boxing Union (WABU) light heavyweight belt.
'Great Jude' who defeated Bassey Ekpeyong in July this year to become the national light heavyweight champion said  in an interview that he is well-prepared for the 12-round showdown with Musa.
"This is a great opportunity for me to go a step further in my boxing career and I won't disappoint Nigerians God willing. I am fighting on October 1 which is Nigeria's Independence Day and this is a boost for me. I appeal to all Nigerians to be at the ringside and give me support even though I have prepared the way I should for this bout," said the business magnate turned boxer.
 The show tagged 'Precise Punches' on the stable of Freels and Threels Promotions will also
feature the light middleweight title defence between champion, Wahab Adebisi and Policeman Sule Olagbade in a 12-round contest.
Jamiu Olabode of the Nigerian Navy will confront Policeman Stephen Nneji in a six-round welterweight challenge as Abolaji Rasheed a.k.a. Rashy King Afonja who joined the professional rank last month trade punches with Dennis Sunday in a light middleweight six-round contest.
Rasheed in a chat expressed his readiness for the bout.
"I am focused and I know I have to be at my best to achieve the best result and that is why I don't underrate any opponent right from my amateur boxing days," the Kwara State-born pugilist who defeated Jamiu Animasahun last month in his professional debut said. 
In the other supporting bouts on the card, WABU bantamweight champion, Sheriff Kareem will face Chibuzor T. Boy while Waidi Usman takes on Paul Chukwuka also in an eight-round featherweight challenge.

Sunday, 29 September 2013

Maputo 2013 Afrobasket: Angola retain title


*
As Mozambique fail to break jinx

DEFENDING champions Angola on Sunday retained the title they won two years ago as they defeated hosts, Mozambique 64-61 in the final of the 2013 Afrobasket Women's championship decided at the Maxaquene Pavilion, Maputo.
It is the fourth time Mozambique have lost in the final of the continental championship; first in 1986 at home to Zaire (Congo Democratic Republic), 1990 to Senegal in Tunis and in 2003 to Nigeria also in Maputo.
Angola and Mozambique will represent Africa at the 17th edition of the FIBA World Women's Championship scheduled to hold in 2014 in Turkey.
Ten-time winners Senegal had earlier in the day recorded a slim victory over the Lioness of Cameroon 56-53 to place third in the competition.
Senegal took the first and second quarters by 17-13 and 11-10 points to take five points lead into the break on 28-23.
The Cameroonians later came back to win the third quarter 18-22 before the Senegalese picked the final quarter 10-08 to win the game with only three points.
Meanwhile, Nigeria's D'Tigress finished sixth on the log following their 50-57 loss to Mali in Sunday's classification game.
The Scott Nnaji-piloted side after losing in the quarter-final to Mozambique had defeated Cote d'Ivoire 62-53 on Saturday.
Nigeria's conquerors, Mali finished fifth in the competition as Cote d'Ivoire placed seventh while Egypt finished eighth
Cape Verde, Kenya, Algeria and Zimbabwe finished ninth, 10th, 11th and 12th respectively.
............
Caption: A player of Angola during their clash with Senegal in the semi-final.

Wednesday, 25 September 2013

Globacom Premier League Update: Namo grabs 16th goal of the season


NASARAWA United striker, Victor Namo today increased his goal tally to 16 after scoring twice in the 3-0 demolition of Shooting Stars Sports Club in a Globacom Premier League Week 34 game decided at the Lafia Township Stadium.
Solomon Babatunde had opened the scoring in the 22nd minute before Namo already with 14 goals in the kitty scored in the 39th and 42nd minute to compound the woes of relegation-haunted Oluyole Warlords.
Namo is followed closely in the race for the Golden Boot award by Warri Wolves' Oghenekaro Etebo who emerged the hero of the day with a hat-trick.
All Etebo's goals came in the first half as he now boasts 15 goals on the chart.
Another relegation-threatened side Abubakar Bukola Saraki (ABS) of Ilorin suffered a 0-2 loss in the hands of Rangers at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu.
It was a bad day for the youthful ABS who conceded first goal in the 8th minute through Chinedu Udeagha's free kick on a water-logged pitch.
The Flying Antelopes doubled the lead in the 82nd minute through substitute Odah Marshal who ensured the Kabiru Dogo-piloted side returned home empty-handed.
Old war horse, Emeka Nwanna emerged Enyimba's saviour as the Peoples Elephant recorded a 1-0 win over hard fighting Nasarawa United handled by veteran coach, Kadiri Ikhana (MON).
Nwanna a.k.a Ayaya's magnificent header off Egwu Uwadiegwu's free kick in the 37th minute put Enyimba still basking in the euphoria of their Federation Cup victory in contention for the league title.
Tijani Adamu's strike handed down another away defeat to the defending champions Kano Pillars as Kaduna United picked up the three points at stake in a local derby.

Globacom Premier League Week 34 Results

Heartland       0              Sunshine Stars  0
Rangers         2               ABS  0
Nasarawa     3                3SC  0
Enyimba        1               Akwa Utd  0
Nembe          1                Bayelsa Utd  0
W/Wolves      3               Wikki    1
Kaduna   Utd  1              Kano Pillars  0
Kwara Utd     0              Lobi Stars    0
Gombe Utd    1           Dolphins     0
........
Table

1 Enyimba FC           33        55
2 Bayelsa Utd           34        55
3 El-kanemi              34        54
4 Kano Pillars           33        54
5 Rangers                 34        51
6 Warri Wolves        33         49
7 Gombe United      34         49
8 Kwara United       33          47
9 Sharks FC            34         47
10 Dolphins FC      34           47
11 Kaduna United   34          47
12 Heartland FC     34          46
13 Nasarawa Utd    34         46
14 Sushine Stars       33        45
15 Lobi Stars           34         45
16 Nembe City        34          45
17 ABS                   34          44
18 Akwa United      34           43
19 3SC                   33           42
20 Wikki                 34           42

Caption: Victor Namo, leading the goal chart with 16 goals





Tuesday, 24 September 2013

Globacom Premier League Update: Gaadi out of Enyimba match

VETERAN goalkeeper John Gaadi will not be in action for Akwa United tomorrow (Wednesday) when they take on Enyimba FC at the Emyimba Sports Stadium, Aba in a Globacom Premier League Week 34 game.
Gaadi is being excluded by coach Justin Tenger after his dismal performance last Sunday in Uyo where he let in a goal which made Nasarawa United to escape with a point as the game ended in a 1-1 draw.
Enyimba still smarting from their Federation Cup triumph according to coach Imama Amakpakabo
want to win the doubles this year saying the team is blessed with tested players who can make things happen.
A win by the Peoples Elephant on paper appears to be a foregone conclusion as they remain
among the first four clubs on the log even with a disputed game against Kano Pillars to be played on a neutral ground, Lagos on a date yet to be fixed.
Fans would miss in Ilorin as the game between Kwara United and Lobi Stars will be played behind closed doors owing to the ban imposed on the home team by the League Monitoring Company (LMC) following crowd trouble.
The Afonja Warriors picked the maximum points when both sides first clashed in the first round at Katsina-Ala thus, the Dominic Iorfa-managed side will go all out on a vengeance mission.
Kwara United are in contention for one of the continental tickets while Lobi are struggling to come out of the murky relegation waters thus would want to leave Ilorin with at least a point.
Interestingly, lanky striker, Lekan Agunloye would lead Lobi Stars' attack against his former team in Ilorin.

Week 34 fixtures, Wednesday, September 25

Heartland    vs       Sunshine Stars
Rangers      vs        ABS
Nasarawa   vs        3SC
Enyimba      vs      Akwa United
Nembe City   vs    Bayelsa Utd
Warri Wolves vs   Wikki Tourists
Kaduna Utd   vs   Kano Pillars
Kwara Utd    vs    Lobi Stars
Gombe Utd    vs   Dolphins
Sharks       vs       El-Kanemi Warriors

Friday, 20 September 2013

Globacom Premier League Week 33 fixtures

Globacom Premier League Week 33 fixtures

Saturday, September 21

Kano Pillars     vs    Warri Wolves
El-Kanemi        vs    Gombe United
Bayelsa United  vs   Enyimba
Dolphins           vs    Kwara United

Sunday, September 22
3SC                  vs  Rangers
Wikki Tourists   vs  Nembe City
Sunshine Stars   vs  Sharks
ABS FC           vs  Heartland
Akwa United    vs  Nasarawa United
Lobi Stars       vs  Kaduna United

Wednesday, 18 September 2013

Globacom Premier League Week 32 results


Globacom Premier League Week 32 results


Heartland 1 3Sc 1

Rangers 3 Akwa 1

Sharks 4 ABS 0

Nasarawa Utd 2 Bayelsa Utd 1

Enyimba 2 Wikki Tourists 0

Nembe City 1 Kano Pillars 0

Kaduna Utd 1 Dolhins 0

Kwara Utd 2 Gombe 0

Warri Wolves 0 Lobi Stars 0

Sunshine Stars 1 El-Kanemi 0

Tuesday, 17 September 2013

Can Lobi Stars compound Wolves' woes?

.Globacom Premier League update:

EMBATTLED Warri Wolves yet to recover from the Federation Cup defeat in the hands of Enyimba last Sunday in Lagos are in for a crunchy affair tomorrow (Wednesday) against relegation-haunted Lobi Stars in Globacom Premier League Week 32 game.
The Solomon Ogbeide-piloted side are among the top six clubs on the log and any attempt to drop a point more so at home now could push them out of contention for the league title and a ticket to next year's continental championship.
With an outstanding away game against Kwara United, the Seasiders may have put the memory of last Sunday's defeat behind them thus, will like to pick up the pieces so as to claim governor Emmanuel Uduaghan's largesse at the end of the season.
Only last Sunday, Wolves had lost a two-week vacation in France promised by Dr Uduaghan as well as Avensus cars to each of the players if they had won the Federation Cup.  
It is doubtful if coach Ogbeide will parade Super Eagles defender, Azubuike Egwuekwe in tomorrow's clash with the Makurdi Bombers as he would still be nursing his missed penalty kick in the dramatic final played at the Teslim Balogun Stadium.
However, Lobi Stars can still come out of Warri empty-handed if the likes of Musa Najere, Joseph Osadiaye, Gift Atulewa and Oghenekaro Etebo, among others are in their best element for the midweek thriller.
Another fixture to follow will be at the Liberation Stadium, Port Harcourt where Sharks and ABS of Ilorin will be on parade.
The new-found form of the Senator Abubakar Bukola Saraki boys if maintained may see them leave the Garden City with a point but coach Gbenga Ogunbote could also go to sleep in the game if his wards get their act together moreso with the 1-1 draw in Ibadan against Shooting Stars Sports Club serving as a morale booster.
3SC will be away to Heartland FC in a make or mar match as the Oluyole warlords are neck deep in the murky relegation waters after 31 games, thus are in dire need of outright win to get some respite..
Veteran defender, Mutiu Adegoke before leaving for Owerri with his teammates was full of confidence that it is payback time having lost 0-2 to the Naze Millionaires in the first round.
"If Heartland could come to Ibadan and beat us, I believe we can as well achieve the same feat on a good day. In fact, we still believe in ourselves that it is not yet over. We are well prepared for Heartland and we want to use the game to win the hearts of our fans back," said the former Enyimba player.
Heartland it will be recalled have lost thrice at home this season to Nembe City, Enyimba and Kwara United respectively.
.........
Week 32 fixtures, Wednesday, September 18

Heartland            vs          Shooting Stars
Sharks                vs          ABS
Rangers              vs          Akwa United
Nasarawa Utd    vs          Bayelsa Utd
Enyimba             vs         Wikki Tourists
Nembe City        vs         Kano Pillars
Warri Wolves     vs          Lobi Stars
Kaduna United   vs         Dolphins
Kwara United    vs         Gombe United
Sunshine Stars   vs          El-Kanemi

Caption: Warri Wolves players warm up before last Sunday's game in Lagos.



Saturday, 14 September 2013

Federation Cup: Can Warri Wolves break jinx at 7th attempt?


Federation Cup: Can Warri Wolves break jinx at 7th attempt?

* To get N1m from Pinnick for each goal
* As Enyimba go for treble

WARRI Wolves will attempt to break the jinx tomorrow (Sunday) when they face two-time champions, Enyimba FC in the final of the 68th edition of the Federation Cup at the Teslim Balogun Stadium, Lagos.
Wolves will go down as the first team from Delta State to lift the trophy introduced in 1945 then as Governor's Cup if they succeed in taking Enyimba to the cleaners.
Warri XI had lost in six finals; 1948, 1952, 1955, 1956, 1968 and 1969 thus going for the seventh attempt this time while the Peoples Elephant claimed the title in 2005 and 2009.
Warri Wolves handled by veteran coach Solomon Ogbeide boast John Agbawu, who won the trophy
with Lobi Stars in 2003 in Kaduna in his team as well as Kola Anubi, 2006 winner with  Dolphins to propel other 'wolves' to write their names in gold too on Sunday.
The presence of the Super Eagles defender, Azubuike Egwuekwe is also expected to motivate the
Warri side into making history tomorrow.
Already, Executive chairman of Delta State Sports Commission, Chief Amaju Pinnick, who is also the Chairman of Delta FA has promised to reward the glory seeking Wolves with N1 million for every goal scored in Sunday's final.
Ogbeide was unlucky in 2006 when he coached Bendel Insurance who lost 3-5 via penalties to Dolphins at the MKO Abiola Stadium, Abeokuta after a 2-2 draw at regulation time.
Technical Adviser of Enyimba, Coach Salisu Yusuf won the Federation Cup on two occasions as a
player of El-Kanemi Warriors in 1991 and 1992 after losing in the final in 1987 to the defunct Abiola Babes as a player of Ranchers Bees.
Enyimba it will be recalled also lost in the finals in 2010 and 2011 to Kaduna United and Heartland FC respectively meaning that the title could go either way on Sunday.
In what serves as a curtain raiser before the final, Nasarawa Amazons will battle with defending champions Rivers Angels in the women's Federation Cup final at 2pm.
Lagos State government in keeping to the tradition of appreciating excellence will honour 12 personalities who have contributed in no small way to the growth of soccer in the land.
The award recipients are Paul Hamilton, the late Muda Lawal, Toyin Ayinla, Amusa Shittu, Dominic Iorfa, Joe Erico, Josiah Dombraye, Stanley Eguma, Sebastian Brodericks-Imasuen and veteran television sport broadcaster Walter Oyatogun.
Also to be honoured by governor Babatunde Raji Fashola on Sunday are the late ace radio sports commentator Ernest Okonwko and another renowned radio sport commentator, Ishola Folorunsho.

Caption: Azubuike Egwuekwe of Warri Wolves (top) and Ifeanyi Ede of Enyimba.


Federation Cup 2013: Road to final and past winners

Federation Cup 2013: Road to final
         ENYIMBA

Enyimba 5 Police Machine 1 (R/64)
Enyimba 2 Remo FC 1        (R/32)
Enyimba 3 Shooting Stars 1 (R/16)
Enyimba 1 Nasarawa Utd 0   (q/f)
Enyimba 1 Lobi Stars 0     (s/f)

       WARRI WOLVES

Warri Wolves 1 Dynamites 0    (R/64)
Warri Wolves 1 Spotlight 0    (R/32)
Warri Wolves 1 Tornadoes 0    (R/16)
Warri Wolves 3 K. Pillars 0   (q/f)
Warri Wolves 2 Akwa Utd 1     (s/f)

...............

               Past winners


             Governor's Cup

    1945 : Marine         1               Corinthians 0
    1946 : Lagos Railways 3         Port Harcourt 1
    1947 : Marine         3               Lagos Railways 1
    1948 : Lagos Railways 1          Warri 0
    1949 : Lagos Railways 3          Port Harcourt 0
    1950 : Lagos UAC      3         Port Harcourt 2
    1951 : Lagos Railways 3         Mighty Jets 2
    1952 : Lagos PAN Bank 6     Warri 0
    1953 : Kano XI        2            Lagos Dynamos 1

                 FA Cup

    1954 : Calabar        3           Kano XI   0
    1955 : Port Harcourt  4         Warri     1
    1956 : Lagos Railways 3       Warri   1
    1957 : Lagos Railways 5       Zaria    1
    1958 : Port Harcourt  6         Federal United  0
    1959 : Ibadan Lions 1          Police    0

             Challenge Cup

    1960 : Lagos ECN      5                     Ibadan Lions    2
    1961 : Ibadan Lions   1                       Lagos UAC      0
    1962 : Police         1                           Mighty Jets        0
    1963 : Port Harcourt  1                      Mighty Jets       0
    1964 : Lagos Railways 3                    Mighty Jets      1
    1965 : Lagos ECN      3                     Mighty Jets      1
    1966 : Ibadan Lions   3                     Mighty Jets   0   (Walkover)
    1967 : Stationery Stores 3                 Mighty Jets      1
    1968 : Stationery Stores 3                Warri               1 (Replay)
    1969 : Ibadan Lions   5                     Warri                1
    1970 : Lagos ECN      3                   Mighty Jets      1
    1971 : WNDC (IICC)    2               Rangers        1
    1972 : Bendel Insurance 3              Mighty Jets      2 (Replay)
    1973 : No competition
    1974 : Rangers        2                     Mighty Jets              0
    1975 : Rangers        1                    Shooting Stars         0
    1976 : Rangers        2                    Alyufsalam Rocks    0
    1977 : Shooting Stars 2                 Raccah Rovers     0
    1978 : Bendel Insurance 3             Rangers             0
    1979 : Shooting Stars 2                 Sharks FC           0
    1980 : Bendel Insurance 1            Stationery Stores     0
    1981 : Enugu Rangers 2                Bendel Insurance     0
    1982 : Stationery Stores 4             Niger Tornadoes      1
    1983 : Rangers       5                    DIC Bees                   4 (Penalties)
    1984 : Leventis United 1               Abiola Babes           0
    1985 : Abiola Babes   6                BCC Lions             5  (Penalties)
    1986 : Leventis United 1               Abiola Babes           0
    1987 : Abiola Babes    7               Ranchers Bees         6 (Penalties)
    1988 : I. Nationale 3                   Flash Flamingoes         0
    1989 : BCC Lions       1              Iwuanyanwu Nationale  0
    1990 : Stationery Stores 5            Rangers                   4 (Penalties)
    1991 : El-Kanemi Warriors 3      Kano Pillars         2
    1992 : El-Kanemi Warriors 1      Stationery Stores  0
    1993 : BCC Lions          1          Plateau United        0
    1994 : BCC Lions          1         Julius Berger FC      0
    1995 : Shooting Stars   2            Katsina United          0
    1996 : Julius Berger    1             Katsina United            0
    1997 : BCC Lions        1            Katsina United          0
    1998 : Wikki Tourists   3         Plateau United           2

                 Coca Cola FA Cup

    1999 : Plateau United  1    Iwuanyanwu Nationale   0
    2000 : Niger Tornadoes 1  Rangers                          0
    2001 : Dolphins FC     2     El-Kanemi Warriors      0
    2002 : Julius Berger   3       Yobe Stars                     0
    2003 : Lobi Stars      2        Sharks FC                   0
    2004 : Dolphins FC     1      Enugu Rangers            0
    2005 : Enyimba FC      6     Lobi Stars                   5   (Penalties)
    2006 : Dolphins FC     5      Bendel Insurance         3  (Penalties)
    2007 : Dolphins FC     3      Rangers                     2   (Penalties)
    2008 : Ocean Boys      7      Gombe United           6 (Penalties)

    Federation Cup

    2009 : Enyimba FC      1   Sharks FC                       0
    2010 : Kaduna United   3  Enyimba                           2 (Penalties)
    2011 : Heartland       1       Enyimba FC                     0
    2012 : Heartland       2       Lobi Stars                        1
    2013 : Enyimba FC      ?   Warri Wolves FC             ?

Friday, 13 September 2013

Ahead Federation Cup showdown: Enyimba train twice in Lagos

Ahead Federation Cup showdown: Enyimba train twice in Lagos
   
TWO-Time champions, Enyimba FC trained twice today at the Union Bank Sports Complex ahead of the 2013 Federation showdown with Warri Wolves.
The People’s Elephants landed in Lagos yesterday (Thursday) from Kano after their Globacom Premier League Week 31 stalemated game at the Sani Abacha Stadium which was 1-0 in favour of Kano Pillars with three minutes remaining.
Enyimba, who won the Federation Cup in 2005 and 2009 first trained in the morning before having a light training in the evening at Union Bank turf ahead of the 68th Federation Cup final billed for Sunday at the Teslim Balogun stadium, Lagos.
Already, four of their players Bishop Onyeudo, Daniel Etor, Emeka Nwanna and Victor Ezeji will miss the final as the quartet are cup-tied having played for different clubs in the competition this year before they pitched tent with the Aba side.
The women version of the Federation cup will precede the Enyimba/Wolves on Sunday as title holders Rivers Angels battle with Nasarawa Amazons in a winner takes all affair.
The women's Federation Cup which began in 1991 was won by Rivers Angels.
Caption: Ifeanyi Ede, Enyimba striker.





Thursday, 12 September 2013

Elerin hails Moje Queens for winning ARS tourney in Ibadan

Elerin hails Moje Queens for winning ARS tourney in Ibadan

The Elerin of Erin Ile, Oba Abdul Ganiyu Ibrahim Ajibola, Olusookun II (MFR), has commended players and officials of Moje Queens for winning the Ibadan zone of the Airtel Rising Stars (ARS) Season III.
The monarch while speaking by phone on hearing the news of the victory of the Kwara State representatives stated that sport has become a source of youth empowerment just as he emphasised the need for the players to combine sport with academic to become resourceful professionals.
"I am happy that our team emerged winners of this competition and I want to commend Airtel for providing this platform for these teenage players to exhibit their skills.
"We are going to do everything humanly possible to encourage these young girls. Our team went to Germany twice this year and came back with trophies and now, winning this Airtel Rising Stars is a morale booster for everybody. I also salute the resilience of the coaches who are handling these girls, this victory is indeed a reward of excellence.
"Our vision is to see that these girls become educated professional footballers in the future. I have made them to realise that education is important and that if you are not educated, you could end up in working for your manager as a footballer," said Oba Ajibola, who is the life patron of Moje Queens.
Moje Queens defeated their counterparts from Oyo State 6-5 via penalties in the final of the zone decided at the main bowl of the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium, Ibadan.
Also, Daramosu Ganiyat of Moje Queens bagged the highest goal scorer's award while her teammate, Abubakar Ajimoh was adjudged the best goalkeeper of the tournament.
Coach Samuel Abejide expressed joy at the feat of her team.
"Really, I'm not surprised that we won this competition because my team has an edge on their opponents. We played more as a team than any of our opponents. The exposure my players have had in playing in Germany twice this year is a plus for my team and I thank God for this success," Abejide said. 
Meanwhile, players selected from the various zones would form the Nigerian boys and girls team for the Airtel Rising Stars Africa Football Championship scheduled to hold from September 16 to 22 in Lagos.

Caption:
From left: Captain of Moje Queens, Kafayat Shittu, Coach Samuel Abejide
(Middle) and Ganiyat Daramosu who emerged goal queen of ARS 3 Ibadan zone pose after their victory at the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium, Ibadan.

Globacom Premier League update

Globacom Premier League update

Week 31 results

ABS 2 Sunshine 1

3SC 1 Sharks 1

Akwa Utd 0 Heartland 0

Bayelsa Utd 1 Rangers 0

Wikki 1 Nasarawa 0

Pillars 1 Enyimba 0

Lobi 3 Nembe 0

Dolphins 2 Wolves 1

Gombe 3 Kaduna 0

El-Kanemi 1 Kwara Utd 0

League table


1. Kano Pillars 31--54

2. Bayelsa 31--52

3. El-Kanemi 31--51

4. Enyimba 31--49

5 Gombe Utd 31--46

6. Warri Wolves 30--45

7. Heartland 31--44

8. Kwara Utd 30--44

9. Dolphins 31--44

10. Rangers 30--42

11. Akwa Utd 31--42

12. Sharks 31--41

13. ABS 31--41

14. Lobi 31--41

15. Kaduna Utd 31--41

16. Wikki 30--39

17. Nasarawa Utd 31--39

18. Nembe 31--39

19. 3SC 30--38

20. Sunshine 30--38
.............
Top goalscorers

Victor Namo---Nasarawa Utd--13 goals
Dele Olorundare--Sunshine---12 goals
Bishop Onyeudo--Enyimba--12 goals
Oghenekaro Etebor--Warri Wolves 12 goals
Mfom Udoh--Akwa United--12 goals



Wednesday, 11 September 2013

Globacom Premier League: Gambo wreaks Enyimba as Pillars maintain lead


Globacom Premier League: Gambo wreaks Enyimba as Pillars maintain lead

GAMBO Mohammed became an instant hero in the Pyramid city today as he scored a late minute goal for Kano Pillars to ensure Enyimba Fc returned to Aba empty-handed in a Globacom Premier League Week 31 game played at the Sani Abacha Stadium, Kano.
The Peoples Elephant almost ran away with a point until in the 89th minute when Gambo struck off with a terrific shot from 20 yards to keep the Sai Maisugida exponents on top of the log with 54 points.
Gambo who played for the Super Eagles at the last FIFA Confederations Cup in Brazil was in cloud nine after the demolition of Enyimba who are eyeing the Federation Cup title for the third time this Sunday at the Teslim Balogun Stadium, Lagos.
"It was quite a pretty difficult game though we expected it to be so but thank God we came out victorious. We just have to remain focused and work hard because the race is still open but I'm excited by today's victory," said the Pillars forward.
In Ilorin, Abubakar Bukola Saraki (ABS) brightened their chances of surviving relegation when they dumped Sunshine Stars of Akure 2-1.
Team manager of ABS, Alloy Chukwuemeka said the victory was a morale booster for his players in their bid to retain their slot in the premier league.
"We are happy that we were able to secure the three points in the game and we are very hopeful that at the end, we will maintain the tradition of surviving relegation by God's grace," said ACC as he is fondly called by his admirers.
In Ibadan, the woes of Shooting Stars Sports Club were compounded as the team settled for a
1-1 draw with visiting Sharks of Port Harcourt.
Fortune Omoniwari put the visitors ahead in the 43rd minute with a blinder close to the box while Gbolahan Salami's penalty kick gave the Oluyole warlords an equaliser in the 72nd minute.
Defender  Lekan Gabriel of Sharks bagged a red card in the first half before his side took the lead at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Ibadan.
Super Sand Eagles captain, Isiaka Olawale's strike ensured a 2-1 win for Dolphins over Warri Wolves in another mid-week thriller.
The visitors opened the scoring barely four minutes into the game through Osadiaye Joseph before Ifeanyi Egwim drew parity in the 21st minute while Olawale sent Dolphins fans into wild jubilation with his fourth goal of the season.
Also, relegation-haunted Wikki Tourists secured their first win under closed doors as they pipped Nasarawa United coached by Kadiri Ikhana 1-0 courtesy of Ibrahim Babale's strike.
The Week 32 fixtures will be put on hold this weekend as the final of the Federation Cup takes the centre stage on Sunday between Warri Wolves and Enyimba in Lagos.

Caption: Alloy Chukwuemeka, Team Manager of ABS FC

Tuesday, 10 September 2013

Ameobi scores as Nigeria spank Burkina Faso 4-1

Ameobi scores as Nigeria spank Burkina Faso 4-1
* As Okwuosa gets first cap

NEWCASTLE of England player, Shola Ameobi scored for the first time for Nigeria as the Super Eagles on Tuesday hammered the Stallions of Burkina Faso 4-1 in a friendly played at the Ahmadu Bello Stadium, Kaduna.
James Okwuosa was the only player who got his first cap in Nigeria's line up and the Chippa United of South Africa defender played all through 90 minutes.
Brown Ideye opened the scoring in the 13th minute while the Dynamo Kiev striker who was benched in the last World Cup qualifier in Calabar last weekend doubled the lead in the 43rd minute.
Ameobi's dream to score for Nigeria was eventually realised as he scored the third goal in the third minute.
The former England junior international striker first played for the Super Eagles last December in a 3-1 win over Venezuela in a friendly in Miami, Florida while he had his official debut after he switched nationality to Nigeria last weekend in Calabar when he came on to replace Emmanuel Emenike in the 81st minute in the 2-0 win over the Flames of Malawi.
He was later replaced in the game (against Burkina Faso) by SC Heerenven of Holland forward
Uche Nwofor.
Substitute Emmanuel Emenike who missed the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final against Burkina Faso made it 4-0 in the 63rd minute before the Stallions got a consolatory goal off a cross through Sinkore Seidu.
The reigning Africa's goal king (Emenike) came on to replace Obinna Nsofor in the match.
Other Eagles substitutes in the match were Brescia of Italy forward, Nnamdi Oduamadi who cameon to replace Ideye as Nosa Igiebor was replaced by Sunday Mba while the duo of Elderson Echiejile and Efe Ambrose were replaced by Benjamin Francis and Solomon Kwambe.
Only stand-in captain and goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama and Godfrey Oboabona glued to the bench till
final whistle.
Super Eagles head coach, Stephen Keshi who was elated at the demolition of the Stallions who however played without some their regular players in  Alain Traore, Aristide Bance and Jonathan Pitroipa said his team has improved in the area of marksmanship.
We were quarrelling
in the dressing room in the last game against Malawi for scoring only two out of the myriad of scoring chances we created but today, we have four goals to show, it is an improvement," said the former coach of Mali in a post-match conference.

Caption: Shola Ameobi during his debut game against Venezuela in Miami, USA in December 2012.

Kwara SWAN sets up six committees

Kwara SWAN sets up six committees

The executive committee of the Kwara State chapter of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has set up six committees towards effective running of the body.
This was contained in a statement issued by the Secretary of Kwara SWAN, Jimoh Bashir saying that the committees emerged at the executive Council meeting held early this month in Ilorin.
The SWAN Secretariat committee headed by Nigeria's Pillar of Sports, Chief Donatus Agu Ejidike has all executive members of Kwara SWAN, Alhaji Mohammed Tunde Akanbi, Alhaji Bola Taiwo and Director of Sports in Kwara State, Mallam Tunde Kazeem as members.
Mr Kayode Adeyipo heads the Ethics and Disciplinary Committee with Barrister Bisi Adedayo as Vice Chairman while Mr Albert Ashonibare, Alhaja Silifat Adeyemi and Mr Yinka Ajayi serve as members. The committee will supervise the practice of members in accordance with the constitution and ethics of journalism.
The Education Committee headed by Mrs Christie Doyin as Biodun Fagbemi as Vice Chairman as ace sports broadcaster Bayour Issah, Raliat Ibrahim, Ajide Olayioye and Yinka Owolewa as members while Aliu Omotosho Usman  serves as Secretary of the committee. The committee’s terms of reference include to organise periodic workshops/seminars or symposiums to sharpen reportorial skills of members.
Alhaji Mohammed Tunde Akanbi heads the SWAN Media Games Committee with Olayioye Ajide as Vice
Chairman. The committee has representatives of Kwara NUJ, Kwara NAWOJ, Kwara RATTAWU,
Ministry of Sports, Kwara State Sports Council, Youth Sports Federation of Nigeria (YSFON) as members.
Other members of the committee are Kwara SWAN Chairman, Bayour Issah, Emmanuel Ogar, Mohammed
Rabiu while Kwara SWAN Secretary serves as Secretary of the committee.
The SWAN Personality Parley Committee is headed by Alloy Chukwuemeka with Bayour Issah, Bunmi Adedoyin, Kayode Okunola, Babajide Allen and Bola Olupinla as members while Jimoh Bashir serves as Secretary.
Chief Ejidike is also the Chairman of SWAN Week and Award Night committee with Binta Abubakar Mora as Vice Chairman.
Messrs Alloy Chukwuemeka, Bunmi Adedoyin, Bayour Issah, Toyin Saheed, Bibire Abdulwaheed,
Abayomi Adeniji and Maimunat Lawal as members while Jimoh Bashir serves as Secretary of the committee.
Members of each committee according to the release are expected to communicate their acceptance of the membership to Kwara SWAN and to assist the body by submitting proposal (s) on how to discharge their duties effectively.

Monday, 9 September 2013

International friendly in Kaduna: I want to score against B/Faso again-Mba


: I want to score against B/Faso again-Mba

SCORER of Nigeria's Super Eagles lone goal against the Stallions of Burkina Faso in the final of the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in South Africa, Sunday Mba is looking forward to scoring again as both sides clash tomorrow (September 11) in a friendly billed for the Ahmadu Bello Stadium, Kaduna.
Mba who was sidelined in last Saturday's 2-0 win over the Flames of Malawi in Calabar said he and his teammates attach great importance to the match.
"Well, I pray to score against Burkina Faso again in Kaduna. The game is more than a friendly because every country want to beat African champions and this is a challenge to us. We are going to play the match with utmost seriousness and get the best result we can.
"Our target is to win and we are prepared to achieve that. If we beat Burkina Faso, they don't have anything to lose but it is a must win game for us. We have to consolidate our leadership position and we won't take the game with levity," said the Rangers striker.
Another player who missed the game against Malawi, John Ogu said only victory over the Stallions will be good enough to improve Nigeria's position on the FIFA rankings.
 "Every game is important to us and We are aware this FIFA rankings for the month of September will influence the seeding for the draws for the last stage of the 2014 World Cup qualifier. But aside, it is a serious game and everybody in the camp is taking the match seriously. There is no easy game any more in football and we are going to accord Burkina Faso respect but we will approach the friendly like any other important game," said the Academica de Coimbra of Portugal forward.
Coach Stephen Keshi will no doubt also roll out in the starting line up the likes of Shola Ameobi, Obinna Nsofor, James Okwuosa, Solomon Kwambe, goalkeeper Austin Ejide, Nosa Igiebor and Uche Nwofor who scored a brace against South Africa in the Nelson Mandela Challenge last month in Durban.
Nwofor was the last substitute in last Saturday's game against Malawi as he came on to replace Mikel Obi in the 89th minute.

Thursday, 5 September 2013

World Cup qualifier: Eagles camp full in Calabar

World Cup qualifier: Eagles camp full in Calabar

ALL the 23 players invited by coach Stephen Keshi for Saturday's World cup qualifier against the Flames of Malawi took part in today's training at the UJ Esuene Stadium, Calabar, venue of the match.
No fewer than 7,000 fans watched the evening training amid a downpour.
The zeal to grab a shirt in Saturday's match was visible on the faces of every player sweating it out under the watchful eyes of the former coach of Mali.
Brescia of Italy forward, Nnamdi Oduamadi and John Ogu of Academica de Coimbra of Portugal were the last two players to arrive in the camp and the duo were impressive in training.
Keshi while speaking after the evening training allayed fears on selection challenge saying it should not be a source of worry to Nigerians.
“We are cruising well, but not yet over the line. We have to send the best guys out there to get the job done on Saturday,” said the man who coached Togo to their first World Cup appearance in 2006 in Germany.
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Caption of photo above: Coach Stephen Keshi points at way to victory on Saturday against Malawi.


Sept. 7 W/Cup qualifier: Malawi land in Calabar

Sept. 7 W/Cup qualifier: Malawi land in Calabar

The Flames of Malawi arrived in Calabar this morning (Thursday) ahead of the World Cup qualifier against the Super Eagles on Saturday.
The delegation of 21 players and seven officials flew into Abuja from Accra, Ghana and were received at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja by the general secretary of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Barrister Musa Amadu and other NFF top management officials.
After securing visa at point of entry, the players and officials of Malawi then flew aboard an Arik Air flight to Calabar and headed straight for their hotel lodge.
The Flames will tomorrow (Friday) at 4pm train on the UJ Esuene Stadium to feel the turf ahead of the cracker which attracts N1,000 as the least admission fee while the covered seat attracts N5,000.
Malawi had on Tuesday in a friendly in Gaborone lost 0-1 to Botswana in what served as the last build-up game to Saturday World Cup qualifier.
The Malawians need outright win to turn the tables against the Super Eagles who are leading
group F with nine points as the group leader move to the stage of the qualifying series.
The Secretary of Football Association of Malawi (FAM), Mr Suzgo Nyirenda has been in Nigeria since Monday to prepare ground for the Tom Saintfiet-piloted Flames who have seven points on the log after five games.

Wednesday, 4 September 2013

Globacom Premier League: Kano Pillars take over from Bayelsa Utd

Globacom Premier League: Kano Pillars take over from Bayelsa Utd

KANO Pillars are back to the top of the Globacom Premier League table after today's 1-0 win over Akwa United at the Sani Abacha Stadium, Kano.
Rabiu Ali's 55th minute goal in the rescheduled Week 23 match gave the homers cause to rejoice and total of 51 points to push Bayelsa United to the second spot with 49 points.
It was Ali's 11th goal of the season.
Technical Adviser of Pillars, Mohammed Babaganaru was on cloud nine after the match saying the 'Sai Maisugida' exponents are on course of retaining the title which they won last year.
"We have our set target and that is to retain the league title, and we have been working towards that. I am happy that we are back on top now and we are there to stay," said the former El-Kanemi Warriors tactician.
Meanwhile, Pillars will be away to Nasarawa United in one of the week 30 fixtures scheduled to hold on Sunday as the World Cup qualifier between Nigeria's Super Eagles and the Flames of Malawi takes the centre stage on Saturday at UJ Esuene Stadium, Calabar.
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Globacom Premier League Table, Week 29

                          Pts- Mp Gd
1- Kano Pillars   51--29--+6  
2-Bayelsa Utd    49--29--+4
3- Elkanemi       47--29---9
4- Enyimba        46--29--+9
5- Kwara Utd      44--29--+8
6- Gombe Utd      43--29---6
7- Warri Wolves   42--29--+9
8- Rangers         42--29--+5
9- Heartland      40--29--+8
10- Dolphins      40--29---1
11- Akwa Utd      40--29---2
12- Sharks        39--29---4
13- Sunshine      38--29--+1
14- Kaduna Utd  38--29---8
15  Lobi              38--29---8
16- Nembe City    38--29---10
17- 3SC           37--29--+1
18- ABS           37--29---8
19- Wikki         36--29---5
20- Nasarawa  36--29---8
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Globacom Premier League Week 30 fixtures

1. Sunshine Stars vs  3SC
2. Sharks vs Akwa United
3. Heartland vs Bayelsa Utd
4. Rangers vs Wikki Tourists
5. Nasarawa Utd vs Kano Pillars
6. Enyimba vs Lobi Stars
7. Nembe City Dolphins
8. Warri Wolves vs Gombe United
9. Kaduna Utd vs Kwara Utd
10. ABS vs El-Kanemi Warriors


Caption: Rabiu Ali of Kano Pillars

Tuesday, 3 September 2013

W/Cup qualifier: Ogu arrives in Nigeria Wednesday for Malawi

W/Cup qualifier: Ogu arrives in Nigeria Wednesday for Malawi

AFTER flight hitches in Portugal John Ogu is due to arrive in Lagos today ahead of the World Cup qualifier against Malawi this weekend in Calabar.
Ogu, who plays for Academica of Portugal, was initially due to arrive in Lagos on Monday, but for the flight hitches in the connecting flight from Portugal to Madrid.
The midfielder would now touch down in Lagos Wednesday night to connect Calabar on Thursday morning.
"It’s very painful. It hurts because I planned everything properly but for this problem," Ogu said.
Meanwhile, the camp of the Super Eagles is increasing by the day with the presence of James Okwuosa, Nosa Igiebor, Efe Ambrose, Obinna Nsofor and Nnamdi Oduamadi at the time of this report.

Wolves reject Mba's slavery Bastia deal

Wolves reject Mba's slavery Bastia deal

NIGERIA international Sunday Mba could have signed himself into modern slavery in France with his celebrated deal with CA Bastia but for the quick intervention of his club in Nigeria, Warri Wolves.
The deal which was aborted at the last minute according to a top shot in Delta State running Warri Wolves, Chief Amaju Pinnick when it was discovered that Mba will be at the mercy of the club in case of any eventuality.
“The deal is not favourable to Mba at all because it stipulated that should he be injured for four months, the deal will be terminated. His annual salary according to the contract is 100,000 euros which is not up to what he earns at Warri Wolves.
"There is also a terrible clause in the contract that states that should the club be relegated, the contract will also be terminated. Is Mba a magician? So, if he is playing alongside 10 bad players and the team go down, should he take the responsibility for the dismal performance when he is not the coach of the team,?” Pinnick who is the Chairman of Delta State Sports Commission queried.
However, the deal was said to be turned down by Wolves as the transfer fee of 250,000 euros on Mba will be paid in instalments till 2015.
The 2013 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) winner is already in Calabar in preparation for the Super Eagles World Cup qualifier against The Flames of Malawi this weekend.
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Kwara SWAN congratulates Nigeria's Pillar of Sports, Ejidike

Kwara SWAN congratulates Nigeria's Pillar of Sports, Ejidike

The Kwara State Council of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has congratulated Chief Donatus Ndubuisi Agu Ejidike on his well deserved recognition by the National SWAN, with his appointment as the Pillar of Sports in Nigeria.
Kwara SWAN in a statement issued by its secretary, Jimoh Bashir said: "The appointment of Chief Donatus Ndubuisi Agu Ejidike, the Kwara State Pillar of Sports as the Pillar of Sports in Nigeria is coming at a time Nigeria is charting a new Sports development strategy, towards taking Nigeria to greater heights in sports".
Kwara SWAN states further that the appointment of Ejidike did not come as a surprise saying that "your recognition as a Pillar in the development of sports first by the Catholic Youth Organisation of Nigeria (CYON), of St. Joseph Cathedral, Ilorin, later by Igbo Traders Football Association (ITFA), much later by Kwara SWAN, and now by National SWAN is not by accident by in appreciation of your sacrifice, commitment and determination towards sports development".
Kwara SWAN while identifying with the new Pillar of Sports in Nigeria also pledged their support for him in making his reign a memorable one saying that "we want to charge you to make full use of the opportunity to add value to sports development in Kwara state and Nigeria as a whole".

Fallout of Lagos International T/Tennis Classics: I'm happy losing to Otu--Offiong

Fallout of Lagos International T/Tennis Classics: I'm happy losing to Otu--Offiong

NIGERIA'S Edem Offiong has said that she has no ill-feelings losing in the final of the singles' title of the just-concluded Lagos International Table Tennis Classics to fellow Nigerian, Cecilia Otu-Akpan.
Offiong last Saturday at the Molade Okoya-Thomas Hall, Teslim Balogun Stadium, Lagos had lost
9-11, 11-7, 11-6, 5-11, 11-9, 8-11, 11-9 to Otu in the final also watched by governor Babatunde Fashola of Lagos State.
"I am happy despite losing to my compatriot (Otu) and my joy is that this title remains in Nigeria. I had wanted to win the competition but my opponent played better. I am happy over her victory because she is coming back after a long absence," said Offiong who was number three seed in Lagos Classics.
Meanwhile, Otu number four seed in the tournament has attributed her victory to determination
and sheer providence.
"I am so happy to win this competition and I give glory to God. I played every game with determination to win and I'm happy that it is a mission accomplished for me. I was out of the game for a long period and coming back in big way is a thing of delight to me.
"In fact, I am so excited that this kind of competition is being staged in Nigeria. I hope we will have more of this competition because it would help the local players a lot to improve in the game," said Otu, who defeated tournament's number one seed, Han Xing of Congo Brazzaville in the semi-final.
It will be recalled that the duo of Otu and Offiong defeated Han Xing and Onyiyechi Nwachukwu of Congo 9-11, 11-9, 11-6, 10-12, 11-7 to claim the women's doubles title of the competition.
Reigning African champion and tournament's number one seed, Omar Assar of Egypt defeated six-time Olympian, Segun Toriola 4-3 to claim the men's singles title.

Caption: Offiong Edem in action during the just-concluded Lagos International Table Tennis Classics.

Monday, 2 September 2013

Sturridge propelled me to join Liverpool--Moses

Sturridge propelled me to join Liverpool--Moses

NIGERIAN international Victor Moses has said that the encouragement received from Daniel Sturridge inspired him to sign for Liverpool on loan.
Moses told 'liverpoolfc.tv' that the loan move from Chelsea is the best thing to have happened to his career.
"Yes, I spoke to Studge and he wanted me to come here. He said I'd love it here, but he didn't need to say much. The next morning, I had a word with my agent and told him it could be the right move for me. As I've said, it's a massive club with great history. The club is doing well, so I wanted to come here and enjoy my football. It's been great - I've been here since yesterday and everyone has been looking after me," Moses said.
The 2013 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) winner with the Super Eagles stated that helping Liverpool to grab one of the UEFA Champions League ticket at the end of the season.
"The most important thing is for me to be professional about it and I'm here to do a job for the club. The target is to get into the top four and for the club to compete in the Champions League - and I'm delighted to be here.
"It's definitely the right move - this is a massive club with all the history. The club has come a long way and it's great to be here and to be playing for Liverpool. I'm delighted to be here and I just want to enjoy my football," said the Nigeria forward.
It will be recalled that manager Jose Mourinho left Moses out of the Chelsea squad which lost the UEFA Super Cup last Friday to Bayern Munich via penalties.
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Caption: Victor Moses at Anfield


Globacom Premier League Table, Week 29

                  Pts- Mp Gd   
1-Bayelsa Utd     49--28--+4
2- Kano Pillars   48--27--+5
3- Elkanemi       47--28---9
4- Enyimba        46--28--+9
5- Kwara Utd      44--28--+8
6- Gombe Utd      43--28---6
7- Warri Wolves   42--28--+9
8- Rangers        42--28--+5
9- Heartland      40--28--+8
10- Dolphins      40--28---1
11- Akwa Utd      40--27---3
12- Sharks        39--28---4
13- Sunshine      38--28--+1
14- Kaduna Utd    38--28---8
15  Lobi          38--28---8
16- Nembe City    38--28---10
17- 3SC           37--28--+1
18- ABS           37--28---8
19- Wikki         36--28---5
20- Nasarawa Utd  36--28---8

Abia Warriors' promotion excites lady boxer, Okebugwu

Lightweight boxer, Flora Okebugwu is excited by the promotion of Abia Warriors to the Nigeria professional Professional League (NPFL).
Abia Warriors at the weekend defeated Akwa Starlets 4-0 to finish first on the log of the Nigeria Nationwide League (NNL) ahead of Crown FC of Ogbomoso which finished with 44 points after a 1-0 win in the last game against Fountain FC of Ekiti.
Okebugwu who won a silver medal for Abia State at the last 18th National Sports Festival, Eko 2012 said the state capital would soon witness a transformation.
"Abia Warrior FC victory would turn Umuahia into a sports tourism State. Bravo," declared Okebugwu, who is also a kick-boxer.
Meanwhile, Giwa FC and FC Taraba also grabbed promotion tickets in group A of the just-
concluded NNL season.
FC Taraba Giwa on the final day defeated Jos-based Giwa FC 1-0 but the result ensured both sides landed in the Globacom Premier League next season. 


Sunday, 1 September 2013

ABS mgt commends players for 3SC draw

ABS mgt commends players for 3SC draw

Players and officials of ABS FC have been commended for raising their game to pick a point against Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) in Sunday's Globacom Premier League Week 29 game in Ibadan which ended in a 1-1 draw.
Team Manager of the Ilorin-based side,  Alloy Chukwuemeka said after the match in Ibadan that the players and officials showed enough commitment, having picked four points from the last three matches against Bayelsa United, Akwa United and 3SC.
"The team showed improvement and enough commitment especially following the management's decision to sanction the team. With that, we have reversed our decisipon to slash players salaries by half. The coaches too have been left off the hook of the three match-ultimatum given to them," Chukwuemeka said.
He however charged the players and the technical crew to sustain the performance as the team
is still struggling to survive relegation.
Meanwhile, 3SC led at half time through the 17th minute penalty converted by veteran defender, Mutiu Adegoke before the Kabiru Dogo-piloted side drew parity through Muftau Saliu's 75th minute strike to run away with a point against all odds.
At Katsina Ala, Lekan Agunloye's 76th minute goal against visiting Nasarawa United ensured maximum points for the relegation-haunted Lobi Stars.


Glo Premier League Week 29 Results

Shooting Stars 1 ABS 1

Akwa Utd 4 Sunshine 0

Bayelsa Utd 1 Sharks 0

Wikki 0 Heartland 1

Gombe 1 Nembe 0

Lobi 1 Nasarawa 0

Pillars 2 Rangers 1

Dolphins 0 Enyimba 0

Elkanemi 1 Kaduna 0

Kwara utd 0 Wolves 0(Abandoned)

Caption of the picture above: Bashir Abdurahman of ABS shields the ball away from an opponent during the Globacom Premier League Week 29 game in Ibadan.