Thierry Henry apologises to Nigerians after controversial World Cup broadcast comment

 

Thierry Henry has apologised after comments made during Fox’s coverage of the FIFA World Cup opening game between the United States and Paraguay sparked criticism from Nigerian fans.

The Arsenal and France legend, working as a studio analyst alongside Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Alexi Lalas, reacted during a pre-match segment involving streamer IShowSpeed, who wore a US jersey paired with Nigerian national team shorts.

Ibrahimovic joked about the combination, while Henry remarked that mixing kits is often considered bad luck in sport and added, “I love Nigeria, but today is US for you.”

The comments were widely shared on social media and prompted backlash from supporters in Nigeria.

However, Henry later issued an apology, clarifying that no offence was intended and acknowledging the sensitivity of national team symbols and fan pride, while revealing he respects Nigerian football culture deeply and supports its global fanbase always.

"I need to clarify something because I don’t think people understand when you say stuff sometimes or when a joke is a joke,” Henry said.

"So IShowSpeed yesterday had Nigerian shorts and a US top, and I just said to him it is bad luck to break the set.

"It could have been the shorts of France, Italy or Spain - I would have said the same thing.

"I was just joking with him, saying it would be bad luck; not that Nigeria is bad luck, but that breaking the set is bad luck.

"I even said I love Naija, and I do. I have mad respect for Nigeria and the people there.

"There are a lot of Arsenal fans out there. Nigeria is never bad luck. I was just saying breaking the set is bad luck with any other shorts."

Henry enjoyed a trophy-laden career at Arsenal, where he established himself as one of the Premier League’s greatest forwards.

During his time at the club, he also played alongside Nigerian legend Nwankwo Kanu, forming part of a memorable squad that delivered major domestic success under Arsene Wenger.

By Shina Oludare, Tribal Football

Portugal beat Nigeria in World Cup tune-up despite Ronaldo woes

Chelsea forward Neto opened the scoring midway through the first half, but Nigeria levelled through Akor Adams before half-time.

Juventus winger Conceicao restored Portugal's lead 15 minutes from the end in Leiria as five-time Ballon d'Or winner Ronaldo wasted a number of good chances.

At 41, Ronaldo will be heading to his record sixth World Cup, but there are concerns in some quarters that his presence will prevent Roberto Martinez's strong side from flourishing.

With his full squad available following the arrival of the four players who won the Champions League with Paris Saint-Germain, Martinez started midfielders Vitinha and Joao Neves alongside Manchester United playmaker Bruno Fernandes.

Portugal leave on Friday to set up base camp in Palm Beach, Florida.

They open their World Cup campaign on June 17 in Houston against the Democratic Republic of Congo, before facing Uzbekistan and Colombia in Group K.

AFP

Nigeria FA confirm death of former Southampton, Antwerp forward Victor Udoh

 

The Nigeria Football Federation expressed shock on Tuesday over the death of Victor Udoh, the 21-year-old forward who played for Antwerp and Southampton, after the young footballer was found dead in Abuja.

"We are shocked and saddened beyond words that such a promising life has been cut short in very unusual circumstances," NFF Director of Communications Ademola Olajire said told ESPN.

"We are awaiting more details, but this is horrendous and heartbreaking."

Udoh was found dead in Abuja on Monday. Local media reports indicate that the forward, who played for Czech club Dynamo České Budějovice, had returned to Nigeria after the end of the Czech football season.

He was reportedly in Abuja the night before his death, having gone out with friends, and was found the following morning. Some reports cited by Nigerian outlets suggested possible food or alcohol poisoning, though no official determination has been made.

Authorities had not publicly disclosed further details at the time of publication. The cause of death has not been confirmed.

His former clubs have been quick to pay their respects. Royal Antwerp issued a tribute on X, describing him as a player who made a mark during his brief time at the club.

"With great dismay, RAFC has learned of the passing of former player Victor Udoh," the club wrote. "Our thoughts are with Victor's family, friends, and loved ones. We wish them much strength, support, and warmth during this particularly difficult time. Rest in peace, Victor."

Southampton also posted its condolences on X. "We are devastated by the tragic passing of former player Victor Udoh at the age of 21," the club said. "The thoughts of everyone at Saints FC go out to Victor's loved ones at this extremely difficult time."

Udoh began his football journey with Hypebuzz FC in Abuja before earning a move to Royal Antwerp in 2023. His performances in Belgium attracted attention and eventually earned him a move to Southampton on a three-and-a-half-year contract.

He spent only a brief period at the club, featuring in eight matches for the under-21 side in Premier League 2 without making a senior appearance, before leaving by mutual consent in search of regular playing time.

He joined Czech second-tier side Dynamo České Budějovice in October 2025, signing a contract through 2028.

Former teammate Pierre Dwomoh, the ex-Watford midfielder, reacted on Instagram.

"I woke up to it on Tuesday morning," Dwomoh wrote. "At first you think something like this happens in your sleep, until you read the message thoroughly and realise: this s*** is real. Some of Victor's relatives I spoke to confirmed his death."

Udoh was born on October 18, 2004, in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria.

By Colin Udoh, ESPN

Galatasaray's Osimhen to buy Istanbulspor and build Nigeria-Türkiye talent pipeline

 

Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen is reportedly planning to purchase Istanbulspor, one of Türkiye's historically established football clubs, in a move that signals the Nigerian forward's ambitions well beyond the pitch.

According to a report by Afrik-Foot, Osimhen's goal is not simply club ownership. The 26-year-old wants to establish what has been described as a "football bridge" between Nigeria and Türkiye, creating a structured pathway for young African talent to develop and eventually reach European football.


A pipeline from Lagos to Istanbul

Under the reported plan, Osimhen intends to open a football academy branch in Nigeria dedicated to scouting and developing young players from grassroots levels. Those players would then be funneled through Istanbulspor, using the Turkish club as a launchpad for eventual transfers into the broader European market.

The system Osimhen envisions would see young Nigerian footballers develop and gain experience before moving to Europe through Istanbulspor, effectively turning the club into a development hub with direct ties to West African talent.


Why Istanbulspor

Istanbulspor, founded in 1926, is one of Istanbul's oldest football institutions. The club has experienced significant fluctuations in its fortunes over the decades, competing at various levels of Turkish football. Its status as a historic but lower-profile club could make it an attractive acquisition for an investor looking to reshape a team's identity and sporting model without the financial burden associated with Türkiye's top-tier clubs.

The concept of active players investing in club ownership, while still uncommon, has gained traction in recent years across global football, as high-earning athletes increasingly look to leverage their wealth and industry knowledge into long-term business ventures within the sport.


Osimhen's prolific season continues

The reported acquisition plan comes during one of the most productive stretches of Osimhen's career. The Nigerian international has appeared in 29 matches across all competitions for Galatasaray in the 2025-26 season, scoring 19 goals and providing 7 assists.

Osimhen originally rose to prominence in European football through spells in Belgium, Germany, France, and most notably Italy, where he became one of Serie A's most feared strikers during his time at Napoli. His move to Türkiye has done nothing to diminish his output, and his off-pitch ventures suggest he is already thinking about life after playing.

Türkiye Today

Alex Iwobi and Nigeria push for a lifeline for 2026 World Cup

 

Already eliminated on paper for the 2026 World Cup, Nigeria is pushing for a second chance.

In recent hours, Alex Iwobi has broken his silence. The Fulham midfielder still holds out hope that the Super Eagles could feature at the 2026 World Cup, as all eyes turn to FIFA and the ongoing administrative dispute with DR Congo.

Speaking to Supersport, Alexander Iwobi voiced a sentiment shared by an entire nation. Despite Nigeria’s sporting elimination in the play-offs, the hope for a lifeline through administrative means remains very much alive in the Super Eagles’ locker room. "We are still waiting. I hope we can go to the 2026 World Cup. It’s a tough choice, because winning AFCON is a huge legacy, but many of my teammates have never experienced a World Cup. I can’t be selfish." he said.

The case hinges on a complaint filed by the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF), challenging the eligibility of several key DR Congo players (with names like Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Epolo, Mario, and Axel Tuanzebe being mentioned).

Although FIFA already dismissed the initial complaint last December, the NFF continues to push for a deeper investigation.

Foot Africa

William Troost-Ekong: Nigeria captain explains international retirement ahead of AFCON

The weight of expectation and subsequent pressure to deliver is one that's now synonymous with international football.

Fans of all countries rest their dreams on a team of 11, a squad of 23 in total, and a manager tying it all together to achieve national pride.

When that doesn't happen, chaos ensues. Superstars who were once national heroes for their successes across the globe are quickly labelled villains and become the focal point of what can be an inescapable abuse.

Sometimes, the scriptwriters leave the fate of a nation to the finest of margins. A penalty shoot-out, a late goal, a refereeing decision. Or sometimes the issues tell a tale of wider infrastructural oversights.

For William Troost-Ekong, the now former captain of Nigeria after he decided to call time on a decade-long career as a Super Eagle, that "pressure was a privilege."

The centre-back will not be at the Africa Cup of Nations. His international retirement will come as a shock to many Nigerians.

Most, who looked forward to righting the wrongs of the 2023 final defeat against Ivory Coast and their most recent failure to reach the World Cup for the second consecutive time, have been left bewildered by the timing. However, it's a decision that Troost-Ekong has battled with for some time.

"I just felt like the right time for me," Troost-Ekong told Sky Sports.

"It feels like a chapter is closing. But I also feel happy, I feel proud. I've had such a great run with the Super Eagles to be part of the team for over 10 years.

"It's been such a big part of my identity, something I've been so proud of. Just to be part of the team is one of the biggest honours that I've had in my life so far.

"For me to grow into becoming a captain of the team is something that I couldn't have even imagined at the start of it.

"It's bittersweet, but it just felt like the right time for me."

Troost-Ekong retires as Nigeria's ninth-most capped player, with 83 appearances to his name.

His time with the national team was a rollercoaster. There were highs interlinked with the lows, along with doubts and disagreements. Troost-Ekong was part of a Nigeria team that earned a bronze medal at the Rio 2016 Olympics before achieving third place at the 2021 AFCON.

In 2023, he led Nigeria to the AFCON final as captain, becoming the competition's highest-scoring defender ever while also being named Player of the Tournament. A career highlight, scoring in the final to open the scoring, became a low, shipping two goals to hosts Ivory Coast, and losing as favourites for the competition.

"It feels surreal," Troost-Ekong says as he describes the feeling of dragging his nation to an AFCON final.

"I think maybe because I already had the first thoughts about stopping at that time. I was probably more emotional.

"I wasn't in the best relationship with the coach that we had at the time, even though we made up afterwards and I went to the tournament.

"So to be there, I was just trying to enjoy it as much as I could because I kind of said to myself, 'this would be my last tournament'.

"It wasn't until we finished the tournament, and I thought, wow, that was something really special to be a part of. And I think I managed to show my best version and lead the team as well as I could."

Troost-Ekong was in tears after the final whistle blew in Abidjan. But as his sorrow turned to pride, anger from fans who felt their team should have won turned to abuse, platformed by a harsh Nigerian media.

Fulham duo Calvin Bassey and Alex Iwobi felt the full brunt of the abuse as their Premier League status came with expectation that they failed to deliver upon.

An unforgiving media alongside a passionate fanbase is a recipe for disaster when things don't go your way.

"Was the media scrutiny too much? Maybe at times. When I got older, I kind of had to learn how to deal with that.

"And I think the best way is through experiencing it. I think you have to share that. I don't think you've got to take that upon yourself because it's not just me playing in the team.

"But as a team, my role was definitely growing in that and change because you have to try and absorb that and try to keep everyone level-headed.

"It's difficult to do because there are so many moving parts, whether it's the manager, whether it's within the federation, or of course, the fans who want the best for the team and are so passionate, which is also the beauty of Nigerian football.

"It can be a lot sometimes. So, I think you just try to create a circle around the team and you treat that as a family."

Troost-Ekong has stepped away from the "family" in a playing capacity but believes the foundations have been laid to achieve success. However, Nigeria haven't won the tournament since 2013. Every year spent without the trophy since has spelt failure for a nation consistently among the favourites and among the competition's most valuable squads.

Having said that, players such as Iwobi and Bassey have grown more mature.

Victor Osimhen's performances at the height of the European game have sustained, while the likes of Ademola Lookman and Wilfried Ndidi will hope to play a key role this AFCON.

"I feel like there's been a gradual passing of the baton from where I am as one of the leaders and captain of the team," Troost-Ekong said.

"It's time to step away and let the next generation and the boys I've been playing with for the last years give them a chance to write their own story.

"The team are very well placed to achieve something at this AFCON.

"The last AFCON taught us so much. Of course, losing that, you learn a lot. You understand how to play that occasion better when it comes.

"I think the team will be unfazed now until that moment and they'll definitely want to put those wrongs right.

"I'll be there to support them as much as I can because I think if we have a chance to win the AFCON now in Morocco, I would still feel like I've been a part of that generation, the set of players, even though I wouldn't be there at that moment.

"It would be a beautiful way to kind of crown the generation of players that we've had now and also give them the respect that they, over the years, probably deserved. But you need to earn it. There's been a golden set before 2013 that won it."

Morocco awaits Nigeria. But within all that, the opportunity to stand on the shoulders of Nigerian giants. Their problem? Whether the steps needed to climb the distance are achievable amid the dense pressure.

By William Bitibiri, Sky Sports

Osimhen scores two goals as Nigeria set up World Cup clash with DR Congo

Star forward Victor Osimhen scored twice in extra time to clinch a 4-1 semifinal victory for Nigeria over Gabon on Thursday and set up a Confederation of African Football (CAF) 2026 World Cup qualifying final against the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

Captain Chancel Mbemba was the Congolese hero in the second semifinal, scoring in the first minute of added time to beat eight-time World Cup qualifiers Cameroon 1-0 in torrential rain in Rabat.

Nigeria will face DRC on Sunday in the Moroccan capital, and the winners qualify for a six-nation FIFA inter-continental tournament in March. The African playoffs involved the best four group runners-up.

Bolivia and New Caledonia have already secured slots in the playoffs; Iraq or the United Arab Emirates will represent Asia; and there will be two qualifiers from the Central America/Caribbean region. Europe are excluded.

After semifinals among the four lowest-ranked teams, the winners of the two finals will secure places at the World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Nigeria are seeking a seventh appearance at the global showpiece and DRC a second, having played in the 1974 tournament when the central African country was called Zaire.

Osimhen squandered a great chance to give Nigeria victory at the end of added time, firing wide with only goalkeeper Loyce Mbaba to beat.

But the 2023 African Player of the Year atoned on 102 minutes, firing across Mbaba into the far corner after being set up by Benjamin Fredrick.

He struck again on 110 minutes, controlling a long pass before once again beating the goalkeeper with a shot into the far corner.

After conceding an 89th-minute equaliser in regular time, Nigeria regained the lead when substitute Chidera Ejuke scored his first goal for the Super Eagles after 97 minutes.

Osimhen’s impact

Akor Adams had put Nigeria ahead on 78 minutes, and Mario Lemina levelled after 89 minutes.

Nigeria had a purple patch midway through the opening half with Osimhen coming close three times to breaking the deadlock.

The 26-year-old Galatasaray striker headed wide twice, then had an appeal for handball turned down after a VAR review.

There was another VAR check on the hour after Nigeria full-back Bright Osayi-Samuel pulled the shirt of Aaron Appindangoye in the box, denying the defender a chance to connect with a free-kick.

After a lengthy review, Gabonese appeals for a penalty were turned down by the South African referee.

The deadlock in a tense showdown was finally broken when Adams intercepted a misplaced Gabon pass, rounded Mbaba and scored.

There was an element of luck about the Gabon equaliser as goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali appeared to have the shot from Lemina covered until it took a deflection and sneaked into the corner of the net.

DRC deny Cameroon

With just six world ranking places separating Cameroon and DRC, a close encounter was expected, and so it proved with few clear-cut scoring chances in a cagey clash before Mbemba struck.

Manchester United striker Bryan Mbeumo had the best opportunity for Cameroon midway through the second half, but his low shot was just off target.

A little earlier, Congolese veteran Cedric Bakambu was foiled by goalkeeper Andre Onana, who pushed away his shot at the expense of a corner.

Group winners Algeria, Cape Verde, Egypt, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Morocco, Senegal, South Africa and Tunisia secured the nine automatic qualifying places reserved for Africa.

Al Jazeera

Nigeria boycott training before World Cup play-off

Nigeria players and technical staff boycotted training on Tuesday, just two days before their crucial 2026 Fifa World Cup play-off against Gabon in Morocco.

The protest relates to longstanding unpaid allowances and match bonuses, with some payments dating back to 2019.

The team, including stars like Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, are demanding a resolution to the dispute with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).

The boycott has cast a shadow over preparations for their African play-off semi-final at the Moulay Hassan Stadium in Rabat on Thursday (16:00 GMT).

"Once resolution is found we will be the first to confirm," Super Eagles centre-back and captain William Troost-Ekong said in a post on X., external

"All we want and continue to do is focus on the big games ahead."

The NFF did not respond to requests from BBC Sport Africa for comment, but sources indicate urgent talks are ongoing.

The Super Eagles are expected to resume training on Wednesday, pending a resolution to the financial stand-off which reportedly includes allowances for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers and the current 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign.

The NFF has a history of delaying payments and this latest development has sparked widespread reaction from Nigerians, with many calling for the federation to resolve the issue swiftly.

Nigeria must beat Gabon to keep alive their hopes of reaching next year's World Cup in Canada, Mexico and the United States.

The winners will face either Cameroon or DR Congo in Sunday's African play-off final, which will decide which country progresses to an intercontinental qualifier to be held next March.

That six-team tournament will provide two qualifiers for the finals.

By Emmanuel Akindubuwa, BBC

Nigeria cancel friendlies in USA due to World Cup playoffs

Nigeria will not be going ahead with planned friendlies against Venezuela and Colombia in the USA next month, after the Super Eagles qualified for the World Cup playoffs which take place in Morocco at the same time.

The NFF had announced the two games last month, with the Super Eagles scheduled to play Venezuela on November 14 at the Shell Energy Stadium in Houston and Colombia on November 18 at Citi Field in New York.

Tickets for both games were already on sale, but a top NFF official told ESPN at the time that the games were conditional on the team's World Cup fate, and would only proceed if Nigeria avoided being drawn into the CAF World Cup playoff round, either by qualifying directly for the World Cup, or failing to make it entirely.

Last week, the Super Eagles beat Benin Republic to qualify for the World Cup playoffs, which take place from November 13 to 16, and officials said that the friendlies had now been shelved.

"We had a clause in the contract for the games covering this eventuality, if we qualified for the playoffs," NFF match agent Jairo Pachon of Eurodata Sport told ESPN.

"So we will not be going ahead with the matches any more. However, Colombia still want to play an African team as part of their preparation for the World Cup so we are working on that for now."

An NFF official added: "Our goal is to concentrate on the playoffs now and qualify from Africa and then focus on the intercontinental playoffs."

Also qualified for the CAF playoffs are Cameroon, Congo DR and Gabon.

Nigeria, on 41, are the highest-ranked of the four teams in the Africa playoffs. They will play Gabon, who are the lowest-ranked team at 77. The winner of that encounter plays the winner of the other semifinal between Cameroon (ranked 54) and Congo DR (ranked 60) for Africa's sole ticket to the intercontinental playoffs in Mexico in March.

For Nigeria, the playoffs would also serve as early preparation for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. The Super Eagles, runners-up at the 2023 tournament in Ivory Coast, begin their Group C campaign against Tanzania on December 23 in Fez before facing Tunisia and Uganda.

By Colin Udoh, ESPN

Nigeria Handed World Cup Lifeline After South Africa Docked Points

Nigeria’s hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup have been revived after football’s governing body sanctioned South Africa for fielding an ineligible player.

The FIFA Disciplinary Committee ruled that South Africa’s 2–0 victory over Lesotho in March be forfeited, after midfielder Teboho Mokoena played despite being suspended for accumulating two yellow cards. The decision awards Lesotho a 3–0 win and deducts three points from South Africa.

Alongside the points loss, the South African Football Association (SAFA) was fined 10,000 Swiss francs ($13,000), while Mokoena received a formal warning.

The ruling has blown Group C of the CAF World Cup qualifiers wide open. South Africa, who had been leading, now dropped to second level on points with Benin but behind on goal difference. Nigeria and Rwanda trail by just three points, setting up a tense finale to the qualifying rounds next month.

Only group winners will qualify automatically for the tournament in North and Central America.

SAFA confirmed it will appeal the decision, calling it “deeply disappointing” and “unprecedented.” South Africa’s Sports Minister, Gayton McKenzie, described the affair as “embarrassing” and promised an investigation into the administrative failure that led to the sanction.

Nigeria, meanwhile, have been handed a golden opportunity. Wins in their remaining fixtures could send the Super Eagles top of the group and back on course for World Cup qualification.

Benin will face Rwanda and Nigeria between 10 and 14 October, while South Africa must travel to Zimbabwe before hosting Rwanda. With just three points separating the top four sides, Group C has become one of the most unpredictable races in African football.

By Aymen Alami, MWN

Mikel Obi Slams NFF Over Nigeria's World Cup Struggles

 

Former Super Eagles captain John Mikel Obi has voiced his frustration at Nigeria’s uncertain path to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, insisting the responsibility lies squarely with the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF).

Speaking passionately, the ex-Chelsea midfielder said Nigeria’s repeated failures on the biggest stage cannot be excused.

“If Nigeria doesn’t qualify for the World Cup, the entire NFF board has to go. It’s unacceptable,” Mikel declared. “We didn’t qualify for Qatar, the last World Cup, and now it looks like again we are not going to make it. Honestly, I have nothing to say about it. It is just horrible.”

Mikel was quick to defend the players, stressing that while they bear some responsibility, they should not be made the scapegoats.

“Do you blame the players? No, I don’t blame the players. Yes, the players have to take responsibility for the situation, but are you gonna blame the players alone? No,” he explained.

The 2013 Africa Cup of Nations winner also highlighted a deeper problem that he believes undermines African football as a whole.

“Again, we talk about it so many times, and that’s why you have people disrespect the African continent and football. It’s the same issues, the same excuses, and nothing changes.”

Mikel’s comments come as pressure mounts on the Super Eagles, who face a crucial run of games to secure a place in the 2026 World Cup. With Nigeria missing out on the 2022 edition in Qatar, the stakes have never been higher.

Africa Top Sports

Nigeria’s Asisat Oshoala leaves Bay FC for Saudi Women’s Al-Hilal

 

Nigeria forward Asisat Oshoala has joined Saudi Women’s Premier League club Al-Hilal on transfer from Bay FC in the National Women’s Soccer League.

Terms of the agreement were not disclosed. The 30-year-old Nigerian international signed a two-year contract with Al-Hilal.

Oshoala joined Bay FC before its inaugural season in 2024 from Barcelona, where she won two Women’s Champions League titles. She scored a team-high seven goals in her first year with the San Francisco Bay Area team.

The 30-year-old scored Bay FC’s first franchise goal on March 17, 2024, in the 17th minute of a match against Angel City.

“Asisat has been an incredibly important part of Bay FC history, not only with her impact on the pitch but also through the energy, professionalism, and kindness she brought every day,” Matt Patter, Bay’s sporting director, said in a prepared statement Tuesday.

“She is a world-class player and an even better person, and we are grateful for everything she contributed to our club in its first season.”

A six-time African player of the year, her last being in 2023, Oshoala was on the Nigerian team that won its 10th Africa Cup of Nations title in July.

Born in Ikorodu, Oshoala was also the first African woman to be nominated for the Ballon d’Or award, the title regarded as representing the best player in the world each year.

She missed out on the 2022 award to Alexia Putellas of Spain. That year also marked her sixth and last African Women’s Player of the Year award.

Oshoala joins fellow Nigerians, Ashleigh Plumptre and Francisca Ordega, at Al-Hilal.

Al Jazeera

Why Nigeria promised its women’s basketball team new apartments

Players on Nigeria’s female basketball team will receive a cash reward of $100,000 each and a three-bedroom apartment following their win at the Fiba Women’s AfroBasket Championship. That comes just weeks after Nigeria’s women’s football team, the Super Falcons, were promised a similar award after winning the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.

President Bola Tinubu says the women are deserving of the recognition because they have inspired Nigerians to dream big and brought honour to the West African country. But reaction to the cash prize has been mixed, with some saying such rewards are unsustainable given the country’s economic difficulties.

Mansur Abubakar, a BBC reporter in Abuja, tells us about the government’s promises and describes the apartments in more detail. We also get reactions from Nigerian basketball fans. And William from the What in the World team tells us about the various incentives — from cash to cows — that other countries have offered athletes.

BBC

Video - Nigeria’s Super Falcons aim for historic World Cup win

Nigeria’s Super Falcons, fresh off their 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title in July 2025, are targeting a historic FIFA Women’s World Cup victory.

CGTN Africa

Video - Nigeria women’s team win 10th Africa football crown

The Super Falcons rallied from a 2-0 halftime deficit to beat Morocco 3-2. The win gave Nigeria its 10th CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title. Head coach Justin Madugu was named Coach of the Tournament.

CGTN Africa

Nigeria win 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations after thrilling comeback against Morocco

Nigeria staged a remarkable fightback from two goals down to beat hosts Morocco 3-2 and win the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations on Saturday.

It was a record-extending 10th triumph for Nigeria, confirming their status as the most successful women’s team in Africa. Esther Okoronkwo and Folashade Ijamilusi led the fightback at Rabat’s Stade Olympique before the substitute Jennifer Echegini swept home an 88th-minute winner.

The Morocco captain, Ghizlane Chebbak, and the winger Sanaâ Mssoudy scored in the first half hour to see the home team take a surprise lead as they sought to become only the fourth country to take the continental title after Nigeria, Equatorial Guinea and South Africa.

The Super Falcons pick up $1m in prize money – doubled since the last edition – and become the first side to lift the new-look Wafcon trophy.

In Friday’s third-place playoff, Ghana defeated South Africa on penalties after a 1-1 draw in Casablanca. Nonhlanhla Mthandi’s fine strike from outside the penalty area put Banyana Banyana in front just before the break, but Ghana levelled in the 68th minute when a header from South Africa defender Alice Kusi deflected in off the goalkeeper Andile Dlamini.

Linda Motlhalo was denied by the Ghana goalkeeper Cynthia Konlan late on, before Evelyn Badu hit the crossbar for the Black Queens in stoppage time. It was Konlan who made the difference in the shootout, saving two South Africa penalties as Ghana won 4-3. Victory over the defending champions earned Ghana their first top-three finish at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations since 2016.

Reuters

Tributes paid after Nigeria keeper Rufai dies aged 61

 

Peter Rufai has been hailed as a "giant of football" after the former Nigeria goalkeeper died aged 61 on Thursday following a prolonged illness.

Affectionately known as Dodo Mayana, he helped the Super Eagles win the Africa Cup of Nations in 1994 and also represented his nation at the Fifa World Cup in 1994 and 1998.

Born in Lagos, Rufai enjoyed a stellar international career, earning 65 caps between 1983 and 1998.

His safe hands, commanding presence and calm demeanour made him a stand-out performer for Nigeria's golden generation of the 1990s.

"We mourn the passing of legendary Super Eagles goalkeeper Peter Rufai - a giant of Nigerian football and a 1994 Afcon champion," the Nigeria Football Federation posted on X.

"Your legacy lives on between the sticks and beyond."

Rufai's death marks yet another loss from Nigeria's celebrated 1994 squad, the team that not only conquered Africa but also announced the country's arrival on the global stage by reaching the last 16 on their World Cup debut in the United States.

He becomes the sixth member of the that side to pass away, following the late Stephen Keshi, Rashidi Yekini, Wilfred Agbonavbare, Thompson Oliha and Uche Okafor.

After starting his playing career locally with Stationery Stores and Femo Scorpions in Nigeria, Rufai went on to play professionally in Benin, Belgium, the Netherlands, Spain and Portugal.

Known not just for his reflexes and shot-stopping abilities, Rufai's dedication and professionalism inspired a generation of goalkeepers who followed in his footsteps.

"We lost an African legend Peter Rufai. May his soul rest well," former Nigeria team-mate Kanu posted on social media.

"May your spirit continue to inspire all of us and future generations."

Super Eagles forward Ahmed Musa said that the "nation mourns a hero" following Rufai's death.

"Your heroic reflexes and unwavering presence between the posts brought us moments of pride on the world stage," Musa said.

"Though you've left us, your legacy soars higher than any trophy. Fly high, Dodo Mayana."

By Isaiah Akinremi, BBC

Eric Chelle Determined To Win More Trophies for Nigeria After Unity Cup Victory

 

Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle has expressed his desire to win more trophies for Nigeria after winning the Unity Cup at the GTech Community Stadium in Brentford, London.

Chelle led the Super Eagles to victory over Jamaica in the final of the second edition of the tournament, 21 years after winning the first-ever organised Unity Cup.

In 2004, Nigeria beat the Reggae Boyz 2-0 to win the maiden edition in Charlton, but they went through a penalty shootout to claim a 5-4 victory on Saturday, after 2-2.draw in regulation time


Chelle, who had begun his reign with a win and a draw in the troubled 2026 World Cup qualifiers, was delighted to lift his first piece of silverware as a coach and hopes to add more as Nigeria go into the 2025 AFCON in Morocco by December.

“This is my first trophy as a coach. When I was a football player, I won lots of trophies. I hope with this trophy I can bring Nigeria another trophy,” Chelle said.

At the Unity Cup, the Franco-Malian coach had a blend of home-based and foreign stars, as they remain hopeful of picking a ticket to the World Cup in the USA, Canada and Mexico before the AFCON.

“We have an important goal in September. So I saw this as an opportunity to give many players a chance to show what they can do. And I’m really happy and proud of them because, in just two or three training sessions, they worked really hard. That’s the reality.

“During this tournament, we scored goals, we created chances, and we showed some very good things in our game. But of course, we still need to work. We have weaknesses. In today’s game, for instance, we made 22 mistakes — that’s a lot.

“We need to improve, to step up as a group and as a team, especially if we want to qualify for the World Cup.”

The Super Eagles will face Russia in another international friendly on Friday before resuming their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign in September.

With four games left in the series, Chelle’s men will face Rwanda at home and South Africa away in September, while their last two games are against Lesotho away and the Benin Republic at home in October.

They need to win their remaining matches to stand a chance of qualifying as they are currently fourth in Group C with just seven points, six points behind leaders South Africa.

By Paul Akhagbemhe, AIT

Awoniyi out of coma as Osimhen and Iwobi lead support for Nigeria star

According to BBC Sport, Nigeria and Nottingham Forest forward Taiwo Awoniyi has woken from an induced coma after having surgery for a serious abdominal injury.

Awoniyi was taken to hospital on Monday, having collided with a goalpost in the closing stages of the 2-2 draw against Leicester City on Sunday. He had collided with the post in the 88th minute at the City Ground, as he attempted to reach a cross from Anthony Elanga.

He came back on and completed the match despite appearing to be in discomfort, and was subsequently taken to hospital after complications were discovered by club medical staff.

The news spread like bushfire, with his Super Eagles team-mate Victor Osimhen, who plays for Turkish side Galatasaray, posting a heartfelt message on his social media pages, quoting a scripture and saying: “Prayers up for you brother. God will never leave you.”

Nigerian legend John Obi Mikel also took to social media, writing: “Praying for Taiwo.”

Awoniyi, who moved to the Premier League outfit from Bundesliga side Union Berlin in June 2022, was on the pitch for only five minutes, having come on as a late substitute for Ibrahim Sangare.

By Dennis Kegengo, Pan-Africa Football

Super Eagles bid for World Cup 2026 falters - Nigeria 1-1 Zimbabwe

Nigeria's hopes of a place at the 2026 Fifa World Cup are back in the balance after Zimbabwe netted a last-minute equaliser to leave the West Africans off the pace in Group C.

A diving header from Victor Osimhen had put the Super Eagles on the brink of a second successive victory, but on-loan Huddersfield forward Tawanda Chirewa stunned the home crowd in Uyo when he poked past Stanley Nwabali in the 90th minute.

After six rounds of the 10-match group campaign Nigeria have slipped to six points behind leaders South Africa, who secured a 2-0 away win against Benin through efforts from Burnley striker Lyle Foster and Jayden Adams.

Nigeria, who missed out on the 2022 finals in Qatar, are fourth in the group, a point behind Rwanda and Benin.

Only the nine group winners will qualify for the expanded 48-team tournament next year.

The four best second-placed sides will play off for a spot at an intercontinental tournament which will decide the final spots in the United States, Mexico and Canada.

After failing to win their first four games in Group C, pressure had been on Nigeria and their new coach Eric Chelle to take maximum points from their two fixtures this month.

Nigeria started with purpose against Zimbabwe, forcing visiting goalkeeper Washington Arubi into six saves in the opening 10 minutes.

Osimhen, who struck both goals in the 2-0 win over Rwanda on Friday, saw a volley from an acute angle tipped behind and his header from the resulting corner brilliantly clawed away.

After Alex Iwobi and substitute Tolu Arokodare had gone close it looked like Osimhen had given the Super Eagles another vital three points when he converted Ola Aina's cross in the 74th minute.

Zimbabwe almost levelled straight away when Nwabali failed to claim a cross from the left and Knowledge Musona stabbed against the crossbar.

And, after the Warriors silenced the Uyo crowd when Chirewa placed a calm finish under Nwabali at the death, Nigeria now need other results to go their way to force themselves back into contention.

BBC