A fourth minute strike by six-time African Player of the Year Asisat Oshoala steered the Super Falcons to a comfortable 3-0 victory over their Tunisian counterparts as the nine-time champions got their challenge for a 10th continental title smoothly off the ground in Casablanca on Sunday.

Rinsola Babajide, from the left side of the field, floated the ball from a free-kick, and as defender Ashley Plumptre missed contact, the USA-based Oshoala met the ball with a glancing header to force the ball past goalkeeper Soulaima Jabrani at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Morocco’s industrial and economic capital.

Oshoala came close to doubling the advantage in the 16th minute, but defender Norhene Bettoumi was alert and diverted the ball as the forward was set to pull the trigger from Toni Payne’s cross.

Deborah Abiodun’s left-footed shot in the 37th minute did not have enough power behind it, but two minutes into added time of the first period, Babajide packed enough power into her shot as she stormed past Chaima Alabbassi and blasted past Jabrani for Nigeria’s second of the evening.

Just before the break, Ashleigh Plumptre thought she had got Nigeria’s third off a header from Babajide’s corner kick, but her effort was disallowed.

In the second half, Plumptre, forever adventurous, rattled Jabrani with a sharp shot, and four minutes later, substitute Esther Okoronkwo’s sharp delivery begged for connection.

Osinachi Ohale missed from close range as Nigeria chased the ball in a melee from a free-kick in the 62nd minute. At the other end, the veteran defender was fortunate not to be penalized after bringing down the lively Salma Zemzem in Nigeria’s vital area.

True to character, Okoronkwo bustled and hustled, and came pretty close with nine minutes left when she turned a defender and saw the ball hit the upfront from her shot.

Three minutes later, she was jumping for joy when her knockdown, from Plumptre’s cross, found fellow substitute Chinwendu Ihezuo in the right place to slot the ball past Jabrani for Nigeria’s third.

In added time, Plumptre’s clever header almost got Jabrani befuddled, but there was still time for Zemzem to rattle goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie’s crossbar.

Victory handed the Super Falcons three precious points and momentary leadership of group B, ahead of the clash between Algeria and Botswana.

Silversports FC is set to begin their campaign in the Imo State Club Owners Association Super League with a thrilling opening clash against Campos FC on Monday, July 7, 2025.

Head Coach Charles and Philip has been putting the squad through intense training sessions as they prepare to make a strong statement in the competition. On the pitch, team captain Gabriel Nwachukwu Udaku will lead an ambitious side determined to secure all three points in their opening fixture.

A major talking point this season is the inclusion of 14-year-old Udochukwu Kennedy Onwunali Jnr, who will be just 14 years and 3 days old on matchday. The exciting young talent has impressed during pre-season and is tipped to be one of the breakout stars of the league.

Club CEO Mr. Kennedy Onwunali expressed confidence in the team’s readiness:

“This is a proud moment for Silversports FC. We’ve built a squad with the perfect blend of youth and experience. With the support of our fans, we’re confident of starting the season on a high note.”

Team Manager Mr. Uche Anyanwu added:

“Our preparation has been excellent, and every player knows what’s at stake. It’s time to deliver.”

📅 Matchday: Monday, July 7, 2025

🆚 Opponent: Campos FC

🕐 Kickoff: 1:00 PM

📍 Venue: OSIA City Stadium, Ngor Okpala

Silversports FC supporters are urged to come out in numbers and cheer the team to victory as they set their sights on Super League glory.

Let’s go Silversports! Together, we rise!

Flying Eagles midfielder, Israel Ayuma gave an optimal performance as he helped his club, NK Istra 1961 to defeat Primorje 3-1, reports www.totorinees.com.

It was an international friendly in preparation for the new season and Ayuwa used the opportunity to send a strong signal to the fans of NK Istra of what to expect in the new season.

In a game that had two products of Mavlon FC in action- Salim Fago and Ayuma, both players gave good account of themselves, with Lawal having an assist in the first goal scored by Loncar in the 38th min.

Another two goals from NK Istra in the second half stamped their victory, as Ayuma bossed the midfiel with his visionary passes, timely tackles, his trade mark shots from outside ths ‘box’ and sealing the game with a goal.

The highly gifted midfielder was one of the stand- out performers at the U 20 AFCON helded in Egypt few months ago.

Ayuma at 19 years, is one of the young Nigerian players being monitored by Eric Chelle, the head coach of the Super Eagles.

It was a carnival-like atmosphere at the iconic OSIA City Stadium, Ngor Okpala, as the maiden edition of the Imo Club Owners Association Super League kicked off in grand style.

The 16-team tournament, regarded as the flagship competition of club owners in Imo State, attracted the crème de la crème of the sports world. Among the dignitaries in attendance were former African Footballer of the Year and Super Eagles coach, Emmanuel Amunike; Imo State Commissioner for Sports, Hon. Obinna Onyeocha; and the traditional ruler of Okpala Autonomous Community, HRH Eze Obinna Eziakonwa (Asaa I of Okpala Autonomous Community), alongside several other prominent figures.

The colourful opening ceremony featured cultural displays and entertainment, setting the tone for weeks of thrilling football action.

“This is a great moment for grassroots football development in Imo State,” said Coach Emmanuel Amunike. “I’m impressed with the vision of the Club Owners Association. This is how future champions are discovered.”

Imo State Commissioner for Sports, Hon. Obinna Onyeocha, described the competition as “a new dawn for sports in Imo.” He added, “Governor Hope Uzodinma’s administration is committed to supporting initiatives like this that promote youth engagement, talent development, and peace in our communities.”

High Chief Kachi Atufula, CEO of City Cruz Hotel and Chairman of the Club Owners Association, hailed the massive turnout and promised an exciting tournament. “We are setting a new standard for football in Imo State. This league will produce stars that will shine beyond our borders,” he stated.

The host and CEO of OSIA City Stadium and FC, Hon. Innocent Onwuniko, expressed his delight at hosting the historic event. “It gives me great pride to see Ngor Okpala become the centre of football excellence. OSIA City Stadium is open to nurturing talents and supporting the growth of sports in Imo and beyond,” he said.

High Chief PMC Okeke, CEO of Ave International Football Club, urged teams and officials to show sportsmanship throughout the competition. “This league is not just about winning; it is about building character, friendship and discipline. I encourage all players and officials to be of good behavior during and after the tournament,” he advised.

In the opening match, hosts OSIA FC were held to a 1-1 draw by Ave International FC. In the second game of the day, Giant Berillars edged Captain Marvel FC 2-1 in a pulsating encounter.

The competition continues today with Acquire FC facing Akonye FC in the first game, while Akokwa United lock horns with Amiyi FC in the second fixture. The day’s final clash will see East Coast FC take on Black Salt FC in what promises to be a soccer spectacle under the lights of the OSIA City Stadium.

IFCOA MEDIA.

By Silvernews

Mbaise, Imo State – The 1988 set of Mbaise Secondary School (MSS), led by Hon. Chief Justin Agochi Mgbeoduru (KSJI), has donated a range of sports equipment to their alma mater in a bid to revive sporting activities in the school.

The donation, which included football kits, volleyball and table tennis equipment, as well as a mowing machine, was described as the group’s contribution towards rekindling the spirit of sportsmanship among students. Chief Mgbeoduru highlighted the vital role sports play in shaping young lives, while recalling MSS’s enviable history of sporting excellence.

Often referred to as the “flagship secondary school of Mbaise,” MSS has produced notable sports icons such as Dr. Patrick Ekeji, the first Nigerian to coach two national teams; legendary goalkeeper Prof. Eddie Oparaoji; and Class of ’88 member and former Nigeria international, Sunny Nwachukwu.

Receiving the donation on behalf of the school, the National President of Mbaise Secondary School Old Boys Association (MSSOBA), Barr. Emmanuel Ekechukwu, applauded the 1988 set for their ingenuity and love for their alma mater. He urged the School Principal, Mr. Paschal Njoku, to ensure the proper safeguarding of the items donated. Barr. Ekechukwu further pledged to liaise with the Ministry of Education to secure greater commitment towards the protection of school properties.

Both students and school management present at the event expressed enthusiasm and gratitude to the Class of ’88 for their generous gesture, describing it as timely and inspiring.

The Nigeria football firmament turned pale on Thursday evening after it was confirmed that the country’s 1994 and 1998 FIFA World Cup first-choice goalkeeper Peter Rufai had died in Lagos following a period of illness.

“This is really, really shocking,” NFF General Secretary, Dr Mohammed Sanusi, said in Abuja. “Peter Rufai dead? What happened? I am perplexed. We did not even know that he had been ill.

“We earnestly pray to the Almighty God to grant him eternal rest, and to comfort all his loved ones as well as the entire Nigeria football family.”

Reports said the flamboyant goal-tender, who was in and out of the Nigeria senior team for 17 years, had been ill for some weeks, before giving up the ghost at a Lagos hospital at about 6am on Thursday.

Former Nigeria international midfielder Waidi Akanni confirmed that the body of one of Nigeria football’s true heroes had been deposited at a Lagos hospital.

Rufai made his debut for then Green Eagles in a friendly match in December 1981, and won the Africa Cup of Nations silver in 1984 and 1988, before Nigeria swept to glory in the continental finals in Tunisia in 1994. He was the first-choice goalkeeper in the three championships.

The charismatic and disciplined goalkeeper also kept goal for Nigeria in the 1994 and 1998 FIFA World Cup finals (the Super Eagles made the Round of 16 on both occasions), and dedicated his post-retirement days to discovering and mentoring young players. He also served as the coordinator of the Nigeria U23 team at a time.

Apart from his memorable outings with the Super Eagles, Rufai was an extraordinary figure at Lagos club, Stationery Stores, with whom he reached the final of the Africa Cup Winners Cup competition in 1981. He also played professionally in Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal and Spain.

Ngor Okpala, Imo State – Excitement is building as the Imo State Club Owners Association Super League gets set to kick off on Saturday, July 5, 2025, at the ultra-modern OSIA City Stadium, Ngor Okpala.

This premier competition is organized under the leadership of Chief. Kachi Atufula, CEO of Malick Pro FC and City Cruz Hotel, Owerri, who has been instrumental in restoring the pride of club owners in Imo’s football administration.

The organizing committee is headed by Chairman Mr. Patrick Osuji, with Sir PMC Okeke serving as Coordinator and Bro Kingsley Azodo as Secretary. Other committee members include Mr. Chima Ekeh, M/S Jenny Anusiem, and Mr. Michael Ahamefula, all of whom bring a wealth of experience to the project.

To ensure the smooth running of the two-week event, several sub-committees have been constituted:

Technical Committee – Chaired by Mr. Chima Ekeh, with Mr. Innocent Onwubiko, Mr. Chika Orji, and Mr. Paul Sylva as members.

Media/Publicity Committee – Led by Mr. Kennedy Onwunali, CEO of Silversports FC, supported by Mr. Paul Sylva and Mr. Ovuegbe Okechukwu, tasked with delivering extensive media coverage and global live streaming of matches.

The tournament will feature 16 football clubs battling for glory, beginning with a seminar for team officials, followed by the opening match between Giant Barillas FC and Captain Marvel FC.

“This Super League is more than just football; it is a platform for Imo players to be scouted internationally and a showcase of our state’s football potential,” said Sir Okeke at a media briefing in Owerri.

Sponsorship opportunities remain open to government agencies and corporate organizations across the country. Organizers have assured fans of an unforgettable football spectacle at Imo’s only privately owned sports facility, the OSIA City Stadium, Ngor Okpala.

The Chairman of the players union board, NANPF, Nigeria Ex international Sunday Abe has commended the Ibrahim Gusau led board of the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF for giving premium attention and unconfined support and empowerment to the Players Status and Arbitration Committee of the football federation to carry out and deliver its assignment in timely and professional manner which has created a large scale of confidence for aggrieved parties within the football ecosystem, be it players, coaches and clubs to approach the committee for the dispensation of justice.

Before the coming in of the current administration, we all know that the players status and Arbitration Committee was never in existence or non functional for more ten years, inspite of the very important role and functions the committee is meant to serve in the Adminstrative structure of football not only in Nigeria but across the globe as it centres on matters of status and welfare of the main actors of the game.

It is the light of the above that I am making a special to the NFF president Ibrahim Gusau who has been wonderful and professional in overseeing the administration of the trade of our members to facilitate the meeting of the committee before the commencement of the 2025/2026 league season to enable it deal with volumes of cases that needs urgent attention to eradicate the possibility of players that may be trade restraint if such cases are not dealt with before the commencement of the new league season. This appeal is as a result of numerous calls received from players of cases they have sent to the committee.

On a final note, our dear president, i have also observed that some decisions or judgment passed and sent to the various leagues for enforcement are yet to be complied with by the affected clubs. It will erode the good jobs and credibility of the committee and by extension the NFF if the decisions are not compled with and necessary sanctions applied for non compliance.

In a bold and comprehensive submission, the management of Cynosure Football Club appeared before the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Disciplinary Committee to defend its integrity and position following recent sanctions.

The club firmly denied any wrongdoing or complicity in the alleged misconducts brought before the committee, especially those stemming from its fixture against Giant Brillars FC. Cynosure FC maintained that it acted in accordance with the league rules and the sporting spirit of the game.

According to the club’s presentation, the withdrawal from the contentious match was a direct result of unprofessional conduct and a breach of protocol by match officials, not a reflection of the club’s intent to boycott or sabotage the league.

The club expressed shock over the punitive actions taken without proper investigation, particularly highlighting the reported breakdown in communication and lack of logistical support that marred the matchday proceedings. Cynosure FC also called attention to what it described as “double standards and selective judgment” in handling similar issues involving other teams.

“We are a club built on integrity, discipline, and professionalism,” the submission stated. “The attempt to paint us in a bad light is unjustified, and we seek fair hearing and due process.”

Cynosure FC requested a full review of the incident and the decisions taken by the NLO Secretariat, while calling on the committee to uphold the tenets of justice and transparency in football governance.

As the NFF Disciplinary Committee continues its deliberation, all eyes remain on the verdict, which could set a critical precedent for future league dispute resolutions.