2022 bronze medallists Nigeria were eliminated from the ongoing FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup on Tuesday after a 4-0 defeat by Italy, who took their tournament tally to four wins in as many matches.

The Flamingos entered the game determined to prove that their passage into the Round of 16 was no fluke, and could have been in front after 24 minutes but Captain Shakirat Moshood saw her fierce shot from the left side of the penalty box pushed round the post by goalkeeper Matilde Robbioni.

Just before the close of the first half, Anna Copelli put Italy ahead when she danced round the Nigeria rearguard and then picked her spot to slot past goalkeeper Sylvia Echefu.

Nigeria thought they had drawn level 10 minutes into the second half when Nguemo Terlumun poked into the net after a battling effort by Queen Joseph, but the Video Support Review ruled that Joseph kicked the ball from Robbioni’hands.

The Italians increased the tally three minutes later, through an audacious long-range strike by Caterina Venturelli that flew over Echefu and into Nigeria’s net.

It was 3-0 five minutes later, thanks to Giulia Robino, and in the 89th minute, the Video Support Review ruled that Rachelle Giudici was not in the off-side position and had scored a legitimate fourth goal for the Italians.

The defeat ended Nigeria’s interest in the ongoing championship in Morocco, but the Flamingos must immediately commence preparations for the qualifying series for next year’s edition of the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup finals, which is now an annual event.

Champions Nigeria qualified for next year’s Women Africa Cup of Nations after a 1-1 draw with Bénin Republic in the return leg of the final round of the qualification series in Abeokuta on Tuesday, which resulted in an aggregate 3-1 win for the 10-time winners.

The Amazons turned out to be credible fighters at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena, as they approached the game with vigour, passion and vibrancy, with the pacy and nimble-footed Dossi Germaine Honfo and Yenido Romaine Gandonou the lead orchestrators.

However, the Super Falcons were calm, collected and confident, and the Amazons’ rearguard had to spiritedly clear their lines after Captain Rasheedat Ajibade freed Asisat Oshoala as the Falcons surged forward in the 8th minute.

Five minutes later, it was no surprise that they got on the scoresheet, when defender Ashley Plumptre nodded firmly into the net from a corner by Esther Okoronkwo.

In the 23rd minute, Oshoala’s firm header from another Okoronkwo corner missed narrowly, and in the 34th minute, Michelle Alozie’s header was a little above the sticks from Oshoala’s cross. There was still time for Okoronkwo to side-net from a free-kick with four minutes left in the first period.

The Amazons began to pour forward in the 56th minute, when Chiamaka Nnadozie saved from Gandonou, and then had to stretch full length to push away a shot from 25 yards by Yolande Gnammi two minutes later.

The game turned into a real contest on the hour, when Yasminath Djibril struck the ball high and above Nnadozie into the net from a free-kick on the left, for the equalizer.

Nigeria had opportunities to increase the tally, with Folashade Ijamilusi missing from close range after goalkeeper Sourakatou Alassane uncharacteristically dropped the ball, and Alassane saved from Ajibade in the 77th minute. Substitute Joy Omewa and Ijamilusi combined in the 90th minute, but Alassane was up to the task.

Qualification means Nigeria have the opportunity to not only defend their title in Morocco next year, but also aim for an 11th title in 14 championships, as well as a ticket to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup finals in Brazil.

After an inspiring session at Girls Secondary School, Akwakuma in Owerri North LGA, our next stop was Shell Camp Primary School in Owerri Municipal for our second school visit on the 22nd of October, 2025, as part of the Back to School Project ’25 outreaches to primary and secondary schools.

This outing marked our 13th school visit this year across Akwa Ibom, Abia, and Imo States, where we continue to meet, interact with, and motivate learners while supporting their educational journey through mind-shaping conversations and timely learning material packs

During our session, our Founder/Director, Elvis N. Tasieobi had a warm, fatherly chat with the pupils — particularly addressing the girls. He encouraged them to believe in their potential and to complement global efforts supporting their growth by working hard and staying focused “I always like to address the girls because they are priceless. If your father or mother ever tells you that your education ends in the kitchen, tell them NO! We are raising a generation of women leaders, women who will actively contribute to the development of society. If you take your studies seriously, you could be the one standing here tomorrow, giving back to others,” he said.

Turning to all the pupils, he continued:

“Success doesn’t come easy, and it doesn’t come free. It requires hard work, persistence, and resilience. Be purposeful and focused as you discover who you are and work toward your life’s goals.”

The session became even more engaging when pupils were asked what they wanted to become in the future — and none mentioned “teacher.” Our Founder took a moment to enlighten them about the value and dignity of the teaching profession, expressing concern over how poor welfare has affected its public image, while emphasizing its crucial role in shaping every profession.

He concluded with an inspiring charge:

“Whatever your dream is, make sure it’s not small. Dream big enough to keep you awake and on your toes until you achieve it. Greatness comes from thinking about solving problems in your community. From today, believe in yourself, you are not limited; you are great!”

The session ended with a lively affirmation chant. Our team, alongside the school staff, distributed learning support packs to the excited 100 pupils selected for the programs, this was followed by photos, videos, and interviews capturing the moment.

Visiting two schools in one day — Girls Secondary School, Akwakuma, and Shell Camp Primary School, Owerri Municipal after arriving from Uyo that same morning, is another testament to how God, our community partners, and school authorities have embraced and supported our vision.

🤝 Be part of this project or other life-transforming initiatives today!

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By Abubakar Magaji Yabo – Sarkin Yamman Yabo

Rangers International FC Foundation Stakeholder and State Project Coordinator, Brighter Futures Programme (Sokoto and Zamfara, North-West Nigeria)

Since its establishment in 2024, Rangers International FC Foundation has continued to redefine the concept of corporate social responsibility within the Nigerian football ecosystem. As someone who has closely followed the Foundation’s programs and initiatives from inception, I can confidently affirm that it is living up to its noble vision of creating life-changing opportunities for children and young persons—helping them discover themselves, unlock their hidden potential, and set a positive direction for their futures.

The Foundation has proven that a football club can and should transcend the boundaries of the pitch. It has demonstrated that a club can become a force for community service, youth empowerment, and social transformation—just as seen across Europe and other parts of the world, where football is not merely a sport but a tool for nation-building and human development.

Championing Community Impact through Meaningful Initiatives

Among the many commendable programs launched by Rangers International FC Foundation are the #InspireMe, #MentorMe, #ItsAGoalInitiative, and #ISaveLifeInitiative campaigns. Each of these interventions has been strategically designed to address real-life challenges facing children and youth while creating avenues for mentorship, empowerment, and social inclusion.

These programs stand as a testament to the Foundation’s belief that football and sports, when properly harnessed, can serve as powerful instruments for social change, peacebuilding, and youth development. Through these platforms, young people are encouraged to dream beyond their current realities and are equipped with the tools to make those dreams achievable.

Sports as a Vehicle for Development and Character Building

The Sports Intervention Framework of Rangers International FC Foundation is a particularly transformative initiative. It recognizes sports as more than just a physical activity—it is a medium for building mental strength, emotional balance, and resilience among children and young persons.

By engaging youth in structured sports programs, the Foundation addresses issues related to mental health, emotional well-being, and social adjustment. Participants learn about teamwork, discipline, decision-making, and leadership—skills that are essential not only in sports but in every aspect of life.

Moreover, the framework enables children to explore different sports disciplines, helping them make early, informed choices about their athletic paths. In doing so, it nurtures a culture of decision-making, self-discipline, and perseverance—key ingredients for producing responsible citizens and future leaders.

A Trailblazing Football Club Foundation in Nigeria

Rangers International FC has made history by establishing the first fully functional football club foundation in Nigeria—a bold and visionary step that deserves national recognition. The leadership of Coach Ebere Amaraizu as Chairman of the Foundation is particularly commendable.

Having had the privilege of working with Coach Amaraizu during our time with the Liverpool Football Club Foundation at Anfield, UK, I can attest to his professionalism, passion, and commitment to youth development and community transformation. His expertise—especially in PREVENT Serious and Organized Crime (SOC) policing—continues to inform the Foundation’s evidence-based approach to youth engagement, disrupting the cycle of early recruitment into criminal or violent groups through meaningful alternatives.

Coach Amaraizu’s leadership has brought a new sense of direction, structure, and accountability to how football clubs can contribute to nation-building, social inclusion, and sustainable development. His ability to translate global best practices into local realities is what truly sets the Rangers International FC Foundation apart.

Sustaining the Vision: The Role of Stakeholders and Supporters

As stakeholders and supporters of the Rangers International FC Foundation, we all share a collective responsibility to ensure the sustainability and success of its programs. The Foundation has already laid the groundwork for measurable impact—strengthening the cognitive, affective, and psychomotor abilities of young people through sports while promoting protection, health, empowerment, and educational outcomes.

What is now required is stronger collaboration, increased investment, and wider public support. Government agencies, private sector actors, development partners, and community-based organizations must come together to reinforce the Foundation’s initiatives. With proper support, Rangers International FC Foundation can continue to raise well-rounded athletes and responsible citizens who will contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s development.

Conclusion: Building a Brighter Future through Football

The story of Rangers International FC Foundation is one of hope, transformation, and purpose. It reflects what is possible when a passion for sports meets a genuine commitment to human development. Through its holistic programs, the Foundation is nurturing the next generation of leaders—children and youth who are strong in character, grounded in values, and equipped with the skills to thrive in a fast-changing world.

To my dear friend, mentor, and teacher, Coach Ebere Amaraizu, and his dedicated team, I extend my heartfelt commendation for your vision, innovation, and tireless efforts in shaping lives and communities through sports. Your work continues to inspire not only the football community but all who believe in the power of youth as the cornerstone of sustainable development.

As we rally behind this great cause, let us remember that the future belongs to the young—and through the unwavering work of the Rangers International FC Foundation, that future is indeed bright.

Up Rangers! Never Say Die!

Super Falcons player Michelle Alozie has been shortlisted for the 2025 FIFPRO Women’s World XI.

Alozie, who stands as the only Nigerian player on the nomination list, scored the winning goal against South Africa to send Nigeria to the WAFCON final.

She plays for US club, Houston Dash and works part-time as a Cancer Research Technician at a hospital.

Super Falcons and Brighton & Hove Albion goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie has been nominated for the Barclays Women’s Premier League Save of the Month award following her outstanding stop against Tottenham Hotspur.

Her club congratulated her saying “congratulations to Nnadozie Chiamaka who has been nominated for Barclays WSL’s SOTM following her superb stop against Spurs!”

The Management of Enyimba Football Club has issued a two-match ultimatum to the team’s Technical Adviser, Coach Stanley Eguma, following a string of underwhelming results in the ongoing 2025/26 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season.

The decision was reached after a review of the club’s management on Monday, in the wake of the team’s 2–1 defeat to Plateau United on Matchday 10 at the New Jos Stadium — the club’s third consecutive league loss following previous defeats to Warri Wolves in Aba and Kun Khalifat FC in Owerri.

The disappointing run has seen the nine-time NPFL champions drop to ninth position on the league table, with a record of three wins, four draws, and three losses from ten matches.

The management has therefore directed that the technical crew must secure positive results in the next two fixtures — against Kano Pillars in Aba this weekend and Abia Warriors in Umuahia the following week — as a condition to retain their positions.

“Enyimba FC is a club with a proud winning tradition and a strong expectation of excellence,” the statement read. “While we acknowledge the efforts of the technical crew so far, the current run of results does not reflect the club’s ambition. The management expects an immediate response and improved performance beginning with Sunday’s home fixture against Kano Pillars.”

The club further assured its supporters and stakeholders that every necessary step is being taken to ensure a quick turnaround in performance as the season progresses.

Enyimba FC Media Department

The National Sports Commission recently conducted elections across 16 Federations, resulting in new Presidents and Board members being inaugurated at the Moshood Abiola Stadium. The Leaders emphasise the need for accountability and transparency, as these individuals will be tasked with growing their respective Federations to expand beyond existing limits.

Mallam Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission, congratulated the newly elected members on being chosen by their peers, stakeholders, and the nation. He highlighted that the election is a responsibility call to service, innovation, and economic contributions through sports.

The Chairman further emphasised the need for collaboration among all stakeholders, including athletes, coaches, officials,and administrators ,as well as unity within the Federation under this new agenda.

Dikko emphasized that responsibility is not only ceremonial but expected to be active, innovative, and results-driven leaders who will translate investments into tangible outcomes such as competitive athletes, good governance, capacity building, resource mobilisation, infrastructure utilisation, youth and grassroots engagement, integrity and anti-doping.

Director General of the National Sports Commission, Honourable Bukola Olopade commended the Chairman on his leadership role throughout the electoral process, applauding himfor his instrumental role in progress. He praised the Directors and Electoral Officers for their integrity and commendable work, while also acknowledging the hard work put in by outgoing administrators.

Olopade appreciated the Federal Government’s commitment to sports development through infrastructure renewal, athletes’ welfare programmes, grassroots initiatives, and high-performance systems.

The DG address the newly elected board members, emphasising that their responsibility extends to developing competitive athletes, implementing good governance, building capacity, mobilising resources, utilising infrastructures, engaging youth and grassroots levels, ensuring transparency, effectiveness in domestic competitions that generate economic value, contribute meaningfully to national development, and maintaining a strong sense of patriotism.

Honourable Bukola urged the new board members to establish high standards based on their responsibilities and ask them, what they will write on the new slate given to them. He appealed to them to serve with integrity, lead with vision, deliver results, and emphasised the importance of accountability and sustainability in all their work.

The National Sports Commission is committed to maintaining accountability through good governance, transparency and efficient management practices emphasizing that it expects new leaders to be active, innovative, and focused on creating tangible outcomes for Nigeria’s Sports development. The Commission also promises support and accountability in the administration of sports affairs.

The Comptroller General of Customs Service, Adeniýi Bashir thanked the Federal Government for their support, he acknowledges the Leadership of the Commission and express appreciation, praising them for their visionary policies that has driven sports to success, and praised the electoral committee for a job well done.

The President of the Cricket Federation Mr. Uyi Akpata commended the NSC Leadership too for their support and commitment towards the development of grassroots sports in Nigeria whose emphasis has been emulated in all the federations, he added.

Ahead of the start to the 2025 Nigeria Premier Basketball League (NPBL) Final Eight Playoffs campaign, Rivers Hoopers Guard Isaiah Williams has set his sights on winning with the KingsMen, as he prepares for his league debut.
The 30-year-old American, who joined the defending champions in time for the Final Eight playoffs, says he already feels like part of the Hoopers family and can’t wait to get started on the court.

“I love it here so far. Since day one, everybody’s treated me like family. They’ve been very welcoming, and I can’t wait to get started.” he revealed.

Williams, who plays as a guard, is renowned for his laser-sharp court vision, intricate passing, and efficient shooting. He most recently starred for Patriots Basketball Club during the 2025 Rwanda League Playoffs semifinals against APR.

In Game One of the 2025 playoff semifinals vs. APR (June 20), he scored 16 points and handed out 6 assists to help Patriots win 78-61. He also posted 22 points, 7 assists, and 2 steals in Game Three of that same semi-final series, in a 65-59 win.

Now representing the six-time champions of the Nigeria Basketball League, Rivers Hoopers, Williams, who also played for Mexico’s Los Mochis earlier this year, says he wants to help the KingsMen to keep winning.

“Every time I step on the court I try to win. That’s all that matters.”

“It’s already a winning club, and I wanted to come here to help the team win a third [straight league title],” he said.

The KingsMen will begin their 2025 NPBL Playoffs campaign against Hoops & Read with tipoff billed for 6pm on Monday, 27th October, 2025, at the Basketball Stadium, #59 Niger Street, Port Harcourt Township, Rivers State.

TODAY’S UPDATED FIXTURES

Lagos Legends v Nigeria Customs 12pm

Nile University v Kwara Falcons 2pm

Kano Pillars v Gboko City Chiefs 4pm

Rivers Hoopers v Hoops & Read 6pm