Marseille may sign EJIKE UZOENYI

Reports in the French media have revealed that Uzoenyi impressed coach Elie Baup after one week of trials and is likely to be offered a contract by Les Phocéens.

Interviewed by the Nigeria edition of goal.com, Rangers's media officer Foster Chime has backed the 20 - year - old to be offered a contract by the 1993 European champions.

Chime said: ''We have always known he is a good player and we are sure he will do his best if given a contract by the French side.''

SUPER FALCONETS THROUGH TO THE SEMI FINAL AFTER WINNING BY A LONE GOAL

Desire Oparanozie got the only goal in the 109th minute of second half extra time from a looping header off a cross from right back, Ugo Njoku.

The chances came as early as the second minute in the first half as the Falconets quickly got into their stride at the National Stadium in Tokyo. Gloria Okobi shot from the edge of the box but Mexican goalkeeper Cecilia Santiago easily gathered and she was to prove a blockade for the barrage of shots from the Nigerian girls throughout the match until she was beaten by Oparanozie’s classic looping header that gave her no chance in extra time.

Oparanozie had the next shot in anger in the third minute but it was well wide. She had another shot in the 17th minute that was palmed away for the Falconets’ first corner kick. The pressure was wholly on the Mexicans as the Nigerians flooded their half of the pitch with Ibubeleye Whyte in the Nigerian goal on holidays. In the 37th minute, Oparanozie turned neatly on the edge of the box and crashed a shot goalwards which crashed against the cross bar.

Mexico threatened the Nigerians for the first time in the 41st minute but captain Gloria Ofoegbu made a good block and the danger was cleared. The second half saw the Mexicans throwing more players into attack and the Nigerians sitting back to catch their opponents on the counter.

Esther Sunday was the greatest culprit in the Falconets team of making wrong decisions in advanced areas – shooting wildly and trying to dribble too many defenders. Ofoegbu got on the end of a neat move in the 58th minute but the Mexican goalkeeper smothered the shot for a corner kick. It was one of the 33 shots that the Nigerians had in the game. With 15 minutes left in normal time, the Mexicans came on stronger and had series of corner kicks and free kicks which threatened the Nigerians with goalkeeper Whyte flapping at crosses and making mis-timed jumps.

The game ended and went into extra time where the Nigerians nicked their goal and stayed strong to grab a place in the semi-finals where they will encounter either USA or North Korea, who play later on Thursday.

NIGERIA can't afford to underestimate LIBERIA, says MIKEL

Super Eagles midfielder Mikel Obi have said Liberia must not be taken lightly in a final qualifier for next year’s Africa Cup of Nations. Thursday’s draw in Johannesburg,South Africa, will see Nigeria take on the Lone Star of Liberia for a place in the AFCON finals that will also be hosted by South Africa. The first leg of the qualifiers will be played between September 7-9 in Liberia,while the return leg will be staged in Calabar between October 12-14. Chelsea star Mikel told MTNFootball.com Nigeria could not have asked for an easier draw,but at the same time the Eagles must take the game seriously as there are no longer minnows in the world. “The draw was a good one for us,we couldn’t have asked for an easier opponent than that. I am not underrating Liberia,” Mikel said. “I see us beating them, but we have to be careful and take them seriously because there are no minnows in football, we have to give our best in the game.”

ARSENAL ADJOURN NIGERIA TRIP

The North London club had scheduled a match against the Super Eagles,which was set to take place on the 5th of August. This trip was set to be the first match that the team played in Africa, following Arsene Wenger being appointed manager of the club. However, the way things are going, it seems like this trip is no longer going to take place on the date that it was supposed to. The club has claimed that they have some logistical problems and these are going to prevent the match to take place on the scheduled dates. Marketing director Angus Kinnear is quoted to have said: "Bringing a top-level club to an international market is always complicated and logistically challenging.” "With the proposed match in Nigeria planned for early August, we could not get comfortable on everything needed to satisfy our requirements,so we have reluctantly taken the decision to postpone the team’s visit." He then went on to apologize to the African fans who were looking forward to the game, as he admitted that the club would try to balance things out and could be in the country next summer. "We have a huge and loyal following in Africa, and we are sorry that the team will not be visiting this summer," he continued. "However, we have a long-term commitment to Nigeria and we are already making plans for a visit next summer.” The club haven’t really revealed as to what the details are for the trip, since they seem to be blaming it all on logistical problems. What is rather interesting, is the fact that the club made these announcements only hours after Robin Van Persie revealed that he won’t be sticking around at the Emirates. Many believe that the club are trying to resolve that situation, before they can think of travelling to numerous countries, in order to have a successful pre season.

2014 WORLD CUP QUALIFIERS: Nigeria lead group after slim win

Nigeria climbed to the top of Group F of the 2014 World Cup qualifiers after defeating a brave Namibia 1:0 at the UJ Esuene Stadium in Calabar on Sunday.

After the opening festivities,including a one-minute silence in honour of the departed Nigeria legend Rashidi Yekini, both sides quickly got down to business.

A string of fine saves by the Namibian keeper Virgil Vries ensured that an entertaining first half ended scoreless.The Eagles started the match on a promising note but met with resistance from the determined Namibian side,packing the backline with all its players each time the Eagles made inclusions into the vital area.

Enugu Rangers winger,Ejike Uzoenyi was particularly impressive in the first half with his pace and penetration.He was also unfortunate not to hit the target when his spectacular overhead kick was saved by Vries.

The combination of Wigan Athletic's winger,Victor Moses,John Utaka and Ikechukwu Uche proved quite a hand-full for the hard-tackling defenseline of the Namibians that later sucumbed to pressure at the last minutes of the explosive encounter.

But with time running out for the West African,Eagles coach, Stephen Keshi introduced CSKA Moscow's Ahmed,who came in to replace John Utaka and Enyimba of Aba' s Kalu Uche coming in for victor Moses,adding the needed pep to the Eagles attack.

With the goals not coming,the hosts increasingly grew frustrated and lost their way somewhat while their opponents grew in belief. Fans at the stadium then started singing for a goal from their team.

"All we are saying... give us one goal" they chanted. Five minutes later they got the break.

In the 80th minute, Ejike Uzoenyi of Rangers International,who was a thorn in the flesh of the Namibians delivered a cross from the left flank,flicked by Kalu Uche,and converted by Ikechukwu Uche to give the Keshi led technical crew a relieve.

However,on Saturday other teams in the group,Malawi and Kenya struggled to a goaless draw in Nairobi,giving Nigeria the advantage with 3 points in their kitty.

The Super Eagles travels away to Blantyre,Malawi,June 9 to keep a date with the Eastern African country in the second match of the qualifiers.

Ikechukwu Uche was rewarded with the man-of-the-match award and a prize of $5,000.00USD for his efforts on the day.

KANU ‘wants full pay-off to leave Pompey’

Nwankwo Kanu will quit Portsmouth if he were paid the full amount owed him for the remainder of his 12-month contract.

That is the claim from Pompeys administrator Trevor Birch,who insists the veteran striker’s agent is demanding the total worth of Kanu’s deal for him to leave Fratton Park early,despite the club still fighting to stay alive.

The sum is believed to be in the region of £300,000 for a player whose current deal has already been lowered by a relegation clause.Birch said: “The club is in the players’ hands.“On one hand,them agreeing to defer wages gave the club a lifeline – but at the same time they need to take big cuts in the long term to enable it to survive.

“The ones we are having problems with are Kanu and Ben Haim.You cannot strike a deal with them.“Kanu’s agent wants the full amount and at the moment he is going nowhere.“His agent is digging his heels in as well,making demands,and it is very difficult to solve.”

Kanu,the scorer of Pompey’s FA Cup-winning goal in 2008,is among several players who the Blues are seeking to reach compromise agreements with.Now aged 35,a back problem contributed to restricting his availability to just 12 matches this season.

Super Eagles will overrun Namibia – VICTOR MOSES

Nigeria international and Wigan Athletic star Victor Moses has said the Super eagles have enough quality to overrun Namibia in a World Cup qualifier on Sunday.

Moses,who will be gunning for his second international cap for Nigeria,told MTNFootball.com in an exclusive interview,“From what I have seen of our training sessions, I have no doubt that we will run down the Brave Warriors on Sunday.“I know we have the quality and talent to do the job on Sunday and we are focused on doing it for Nigerians.”

Moses made his long awaited Eagles debut as a late substitute against Rwanda in February in a 2013 Africa Nations Cup qualifier,which ended goalless.The Wigan Athletics winger told MTNFootball.com he is now itching for his home debut. “I can’t wait to play at home.You know I never had the chance even though was close to featuring in the game against Zambia,but am happy and hungry to play in front of my a packed stadium with Nigerians cheering”.

Victor Moses has represented England at various age levels but was handed the all-clear to play for Nigeria by world football governing body FIFA last year after he opted for a change of nationality.

Police probe Twitter attack on ALUKO

Strathclyde Police have confirmed they are investigating claims by Rangers that two of their players were racially abused.

It is understood the Ibrox pair allegedly received the abuse via their Twitter accounts overnight but neither player has been named by police or the club.

However,Kyle Bartley – who spent last season on loan at Rangers from Arsenal – has indicated on his own Twitter page that the players targeted were Sone Aluko and Maurice Edu.

Rangers tweeted from their official account: "The Club has this morning been made aware of racial abuse directed at two of our players."We have reported this matter to the Police who are now investigating the matter".

A Strathclyde Police spokesperson said: "We can confirm the matter has been reported to us and we are investigating."

UCHEBO moves to Belgium

Ex-Nigeria youth star Michael Uchebo Tuesday penned a two- year contract at Belgian club Cercle Brugge,the club’s official website announced The giant striker also has a year’s option on this contract.

Uchebo, 22, played the last three seasons with the Dutch Eredivisie side VVV Venlo The former Enugu Rangers forward scored the decisive goal which helped Venlo remain in the Dutch top flight after the playoffs.

Standing at 1.94m, Uchebo is a true target forward.At Venlo, he scored a total of 10 goals in 63 matches.He also featured for the Nigeria U20 team.

RAHEEM LAWAL ruled out of sunday's qualifiers

Nigeria coach Stephen Keshi has confirmed midfielder Raheem Lawal is out of Sunday’s World Cup qualifier against Namibia in Calabar.

Spain-based Lawal on Wednesday sorted out his work permit issues in Spain and is expected to head to Calabar on Friday."He has called me to confirm that he will be coming in on Saturday.I am sad at the situation but there is nothing I can do.He is ruled out of the Namibia game,but should be available for Malawi and Rwanda,"said Keshi in an exclusive interview.

Lawal made his long-awaited Eagles debut against Peru in last week’s friendly in Lima and has won praise from Keshi,who first scouted him during last year’s 2012 Olympic qualifiers in Morocco where he fired a hat- trick against Algeria.

The former Eagles captain also noted that he was impressed with the spirit in camp,calling on Nigerians to pray for the team."I am impressed at the response level of the players and the spirit is high ahead of the game against Namibia,” he said.“All I want Nigerians to do is pray for the team.

We know every Nigerian wants us to win but they must also play their part by showing support for the team." The Eagles will Thursday begin a once-a-day training at the UJ Esuene Stadium in Calabar,match venue for Sunday's World Cup qualifier.

You can have YAKUBU AIYEGBENI for £2m,Blackburn tells suitors

Blackburn Rovers have placed a price tag of two million pounds on Yakubu Aiyegbeni,who is contracted with the championship side until the end of the 2014 season.

The 29-year-old has stated that he does not want to play in England's second tier, which has alerted a host of clubs for his signature including West Ham,Reading and Southampton.Eskişehirspor are also in the running for the former Pompey man.

If it turns out to be a bidding war,the Turkish club may not have the financial muscle to compete with their rivals from England.

OBIORAH NWANKWO interesting Catania

There is intense interest for Nigerian midfielder Obiorah Nwankwo.

Previously,it was exclusively reported that Italian side Cesena will challenge French club Toulouse for the 20-year- old's signature.

According to mercato365.com, the latest admirer for Obiorah Nwankwo,who is under contract with Inter Milan and Parma,is Catania.

The new Sports Director of Catania, Nicola Salerno has made contact with officials of Parma and Inter Milan for Nwankwo.The idea is that the Nigerian arrives the Elephants on loan.

Best contract ever was marrying Sarah Fallon,says PETER ODEMWINGIE

West Bromwich striker Peter Odemwingie has said that getting married to fiancée Sarah Fallon is the best contract he’s ever signed.

Even though the 30 year-old Baggies striker has said he wants to move away to a bigger club next season, it was with great joy that he tied the nuptials with 22 year-old Sarah whom he had been dating for two years.

“Thank you all for the congratulatory msgs. It was the most beautiful day of my life! A contract I signed with the biggest joy ever!” Odemwingie tweeted to his followers on Sunday.Apparently the striker who is supposed to be on honeymoon in Venice, Italy still has the time to check up on social media.

The Birmingham Mail reports that it was a nice small wedding that had 150 guests at the church.‘The ceremony was followed by a four-course wedding breakfast then “nightclub-style” entertainment with a DJ in a marquee in the grounds of the castle,’wrote the paper.

It published a picture of the newly-wed couple alongside their train.Odemwingie wore a cream-coloured suit with white shirt and tie while Sarah had a boob tube wedding dress that looked amazing on her petite frame.

OSAZE wants to win club titles,may quit WBA

Nigeria star Osaze Odemwingie says he is done fighting against relegation,and instead wants to be competing for trophies at the other end of the table with a bigger club.

As a result the 30-year-old is ready to leave West Brom on his trophy hunt this summer even if it means going back to Russia.The Sun quotes the Super Eagles star as saying: "It is time for me to struggle for silverware not just for survival in the Premier League."

The striker,who was thrice voted the English Premier League Player of the Month in two seasons,added: "I hope I will leave West Brom keeping warm relations with everybody."I would consider any proposals - even from Russia. But my aim is to stay in England.

Odemwingie scored 15 and 11 goals respectively in his two seasons at the Hawthornes, but was never in contention for any title. He is also yet to be a champion for club and country.

Ghana (U20) down Nigeria (U20) 3 - 2 in invitational tournament encounter

Ghana came from behind twice before sealing a 3:2 victory over Nigeria in their opening match of the U-20 Cape Town International Challenge.

All five goals were scored in a thrilling second half after the first 45 minutes dominated by Ghana ended barren.

The win sees Ghana go second behind Argentina in Group A as the South Americans spanked hosts South Africa 3:1 in the opening game of the tournament.

Enyimba star Uche Agbo headed Nigeria in front against the run of play two minutes after the break, but the lead was wiped out moments later when Baba Rahman Abdul's superb shot from outside the box beat Flying Eagles goalkeeper and skipper Samuel Okani.A better playing Nigeria regained the lead just after the hour mark through Wikki Tourists striker Aminu Umar following a goalmouth melee.This time John Obuh's Eagles held the lead for much longer,but Ghana were not to be denied as the enterprising Sarfo Gyamfi restored parity with a brilliantly taken free kick ten minutes from time.The winner which came on 86 minutes was almost an anti- climax,after substitute striker Benjamin Annan-Fadi was left with a simple tap-in.

Nigeria need at least a point to stay in the competition when they play Argentina next on Sunday,same for hosts South Africa who meet Ghana.

TODAY'S FIXTURES:
Kenya v Japan.
Brazil v Cameroon

Cesena wants OBIORAH NWANKWO

According to report emalnating from italy,not only Toulouse are interested in Nwankwo,there is also rival interest from Serie A side Cesena for the signature of Nwankwo who is co-owned by Parma and Inter Milan.

With Cesena's relegation to the Serie B at the end of the 2011 - 2012 season,the management of the club see Nwankwo as a player who can be important in their quest for an immediate return to Italy's elite series.

The problem with the interest from Toulouse and Cesena is that Inter Milan are also interested in prolonging Nwankwo's stay at The Black and Blues.There is talk of a three-year contract offer from the Inter Milan hierarchy.

The club hopes to conclude negotiations with the Nigerian when matches are concluded in Italy's second tier.

Nwankwo, a defensive midfielder,netted twice in 18 starts for Gubbio in the Serie B.

Peruvians turned out to see SUPER EAGLES

The international friendly between
Nigeria and Peru is attracting some
attention in Lima as Peruvians turned
out to see the Super Eagles on arrival
at the airport on Monday and in their
hotel.

The game will be played at 8pm
Peruvian time on Wednesday, which is
2am Thursday Nigerian time.

Eagles secretary Dayo Enebi expects
one of the Nigeria Football
Federation's broadcast partners-
African Independent Television (AIT) -
to air the match live.

Meanwhile coach Stephen Keshi has
given the players extra rest time after
their harrowing travel problems.The Nigerian party's original flight
was cancelled at the weekend
following a problem with drug
couriers aboard the flight by the
Nigeria Drug Law Enforcement Agency
(NDLEA). The team was then forced to spend the night at the Madrid
International Airport.

"We will do well against Peru, that is
why I have told them to take enough
rest and tune their minds to the game
at hand and forget the rigours of the
trip," Keshi said.

Already in Lima for the match were
Italy-based Nwankwo Obiorah and
Nnamdi Oduamadi,while Gege Soriola
had also made it in from his South
African base.Turkey-based striker Ekigho Ehiosun
traveled with the 18 locally-based
players from Nigeria, while Spain-
based midfielder Raheem Lawal was
expected on Tuesday morning.

JOHN UTAKA:I am not the man of the match,and its a team victory

Montpellier offensive weapon John
Utaka has shared his thoughts on his
match winning performance against
Auxerre on Sunday night.
Utaka's brace handed MHSC the French
title,the first time in the club's 38-year-
old history.The Nigerian striker,in his
post match comments,remains
modest despite his achievement.
''It was not sacred to Auxerre because
I scored twice,but because we played
well.I am not the man of the match
because one player can not win at
football,it is a team victory. I am very
very happy,''says Utaka to French media.
Utaka,who is in the Nigeria squad for
games against Namibia,Malawi and
Rwanda next month,is under contract
with Montpellier until June,2013.

Fracas as Nigerians celebrate Chelsea's UCL win

At least one person was reportedly killed while two others sustained severe injuries during Chelsea
victory celebration on Saturday.

PUNCH Metro learnt that the deceased, an unidentified pregnant lady,was killed in the Ikotun area
of the state by gunmen who took advantage of the jubilation to rob innocent residents.A resident who craved anonymity said, “The entire area was rowdy after the match and some
gunmen, who stormed the area, went into the shop of one pregnant lady and robbed her.They
shot her before fleeing.She was rushed to a nearby hospital but died soon afterwards.

PUNCH Metro also learnt that in Somolu,a man was reportedly stabbed in the eye after being unable to
pay up his bet. An eyewitness,Mr. Adewunmi Brown,told our correspondent that the violence was envisaged
because of the manner with which Chelsea fans celebrated during their victory over Barcelona FC
on April 24, 2012. He said,“Before the match began, I already knew there would be trouble because the last time
Chelsea won, there was pandemonium. So, on Saturday, I was at a pub on Kadupe Street.After
Chelsea won, two guys began arguing about money and before we knew it, one stabbed the other
in the eye. “I quickly ran away into my compound and locked the gate but the entire area was filled with
jubilation. Some of the fans, who were obviously drunk, took off their clothes and were roaming
the streets naked.”

Another man,whom residents identified simply as Obi,was also stabbed in the eye for mocking
football fans in Orile area of the state.A resident, Matthew Ajie, said after Chelsea had won the match, Obi was insulting the fans,calling
them hooligans for the manner in which they were celebrating. Obi was said to have sustained injuries in the head and eye after irate fans stabbed him repeatedly. “After the match, around Alafia Bus Sop, Orile, the fans were rejoicing and some of them even took
off their clothes.Obi was however taunting them,calling them touts.They immediately pounced on
him and stabbed him in the face.“He was even left for dead but was later rushed to the hospital by some concerned residents.

In Ojota area, some jubilant fans were said to have blocked a part of the Ikorodu Express way to
extort money from motorists. The Police Public Relations Officer, Mr. Joseph Jaiyeoba,said he was not aware of any death or
pandemonium associated with the match, saying that the police had put in place measures to
forestall the breakdown of law and order.

Four persons were injured on Sunday at the Amike-Aba area of Abakaliki following a
clash between a vigilance group and jubilant Chelsea fans. The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the clash occurred around 12.15am when the vigilance
group members were attracted by the unrestrained manner in which the fans celebrated. The vigilance group urged the fans to be moderate in their celebration, an advice that did not go
down well with the fans. The situation led to a verbal confrontation and eventually resulted in a fracas after a fan that had
lost control of his motorcycle almost ran into the vigilance group members. Following the fracas,the vigilance group officials caught some of the fans while the others escaped.When contacted, Mr. Ephraim Ajali, an official of the vigilance group, said those caught had been
released after their parents and other residents intervened. He said, “Luckily for the boys, they were not among the notorious ones who disrupted the peace of
the area as we discovered that they acted under the influence of alcohol. “Their parents signed an undertaking to offset the medical bill of our wounded officer and a pledge
that the boys would be of good behaviour.

Match prevented robbery in Enugu Some youths in Enugu State said for the first times in recent time,no robbery was recorded on
Saturday in the capital city,a situation they attributed to the football match. The youths, led by Nnaemeka Okolie, a human rights activist and lawyer, spoke on Sunday while
celebrating the victory of Chelsea. Okolie said, “The only time when no one complained of car theft, armed robbery, kidnapping or any
murder case was on Saturday when Chelsea was taking on Bayern in the Champions League final. “If not, almost every Friday and Saturday people lose their cars at various

ODUAMADI goal helps club seal promotion

After three years in the Serie B, Torino have sealed promotion to the Serie A,thanks to their 2-0 victory over Modena on Sunday. Nnamdi Oduamadi, on loan to one of Italy's most successful sides from AC Milan, was on the score-sheet in the first half.I an exclusive chat,Oduamadi said: ''I am very happy with my goal because I really worked hard to be on target. I am also delighted we won the title. It was our main target before the start of the season, to return to the Serie A. Thank God, we were able to achieve that objective.'' Next for Oduamadi is a trip to the Peruvian capital, Lima.The winger is in the Nigeria selection which faces the South Americans in an international friendly on Wednesday.

Hammers in hunt for YAKUBU

Newly promoted to the English Premier League, West Ham are eyeing a move for the Nigeria international Yakubu Aiyegbeni.The Hammers 2-1 last gasp victory over Blackpool means there are funds available for Coach Sam Allardyce to spend in the summer transfer market. Part of Allardyce's transfer kitty will be used in the acquisition of a striker, with the 29-year-old Nigerian his preferred choice to lead West Ham's attack in the 2012 - 2013 season. According to sources close to Yakubu Aiyegbeni, there has been contact between West Ham and the representatives of the Blackburn Rovers forward, who commands a transfer fee of around five million pounds. West Brom, Queens Park Rangers and Reading are also reportedly interested in Aiyegbeni, who scored 17 goals for Blackburn this past season, but could not save the side from relegation.

FALCONETS grabs U20 World Cup ticket

Nigeria Saturday outclassed their DR Congo counterparts 3-0 to qualify for the 2012 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup 7-0 on aggregate.Despite a 4-0 cushion from the first leg in Abeokuta a fortnight ago,the Falconets approached the second leg with determination and succeeded in outclassing their hosts. At the Stade d’Martyrs, deputy skipper Ngozi Okobi scored for Nigeria after just eight minutes. Five minutes later, Desire Oparanozie made it 2-0 for the Falconets, before Francisca Ordega scored her fourth goal for the team in the qualifiers with a sizzler in the 23rd minute. The Falconets thereby emulated the U17 team, The Flamingoes, who qualified for this year’s FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup in Azerbaijan two months ago. The U20 World Cup will be staged later this year in Japan.

CARLTON COLE fires West Ham back to EPL

Nigerian-born striker Carlton Cole scored one of the goals to lift West Ham back to the English Premier League ahead of Blackpool. West Ham beat Blackpool 2-1 in an English Championship play-off final Saturday to make a return to the English top flight after a season in the lower division.Cole, whose father is Nigerian and has twice been called up by the Super Eagles, put West Ham ahead in the first half before Vaz Te's late strike off Carlton Cole's shot rebound fired the Hammers back to the Barclays Premier League. Portuguese winger Te, a bargain £500,000 January signing from Barnsley,earned the Hammers an estimated £90million windfall with the goal which sank Blackpool. Manager Sam Allardyce vowed to take West Ham back to what he calls ‘The Promised Land’ at the first attempt following last season's relegation, and he was as good as his word as his side saw off Ian Holloway's play-off specialists.

MIKEL OBI Joins KANU,FINIDI In Hall Of Fame

Mikel Obi's Chelsea have won the UEFA Champions League after a nail biting 4-3 shootout victory over Bayern Munich at the Allianz Arena in Munich. Bayern had taken the lead in the 83rd minute through Thomas Muller. Five minutes later, with a bullet header, Ivorian legend Didier Drogba leveled for the Blues which sent the tie into extra time. Extra time failed to separate the two teams. Luck smiled on Chelsea in the penalty shootout. Manuel Neuer kept out Mata's effort while Cech denied Ivica Olic and Schweinsteiger. Chelsea's victory means Mikel Obi is now the third Nigerian to lift the Champions League, the world's most prestigious club competition, after Nwankwo Kanu and Finidi George.

I will be fit for Eagles game,YOBO

Nigeria captain Yobo was named on Thursday by Keshi in an 11-strong Europe-based contingent to prosecute the games next month. But concern about his fitness trailed the announcement as it emerged that he had picked up an injury in Fenerbahce's Cup game on Wednesday night. Yobo was quick to dispel the fears in a phone call to the coach on Thursday. The defender informed Keshi that his club medical staff had assured him he would be fit ahead of the Namibia battle. However, a final decision will only be taken when the medics put Yobo through a thorough medical checkup on Thursday night. “After that I can come out to say whether he would be ready or not, but we have back ups as always but I want all my players in good health whether they are called to play now or in the future, because they are Nigerians and must be encouraged at all times," Keshi said

SONE ALUKO gets debut Eagles call,UTAKA recalled

John Utaka and Sone Aluko have been handed recalls as Nigeria coach Stephen Keshi named 11 Euro-based players for three qualifiers in June. Skipper Joseph Yobo and goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama lead the top names called in to the squad.The others are Fegor Ogude,Austun Ejide,Elderson Echiejile,Efe Ambrose,Victor Moses,Ahmed Musa and Ike Uche.Utaka has rediscovered himself with French title-chasers Montpellier while Aluko has shaken off Glasgow Rangers' financial trouble to find the net on a regular basis.

YOBO injured during cup match

Nigeria will now have to sweat on the fitness of skipper Joseph Yobo after he was injured in Wednesday’s cup triumph by Fenerbache. Ahead of next month’s World Cup qualifiers, Yobo was forced out of the final after just 30 minutes by injury as his club trounced Bursaspor 4-0 to clinch the cup for the fifth time. The nature and extent of Yobo’s injury has yet to be ascertained. This will a great source of concern for Nigeria coach Stephen Keshi, who already has been forced to replace Inter Milan midfielder Joel Obi who suffered a thigh injury leading to the build-up of qualifying matches for both the 2014 World Cup and the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations. Fenerbahce lost the Turkish league title to rivals Galatasaray in a derby on Saturday which triggered violence. As a result of finishing second in the league, Fenerbahce have thus qualified for next season's Champions League while Turkish Cup finalists Bursaspor will feature in the Europa League.

MIKEL to honour late Yekini

Chelsea ace Mikel Obi has revealed he will wear a t-shirt in honour of fallen Nigeria star Rashidi Yekini in the Champions League final. Nigeria all-time scorer at international level Yekini died recently in the country and even though Mikel was too young to really follow the exploits of the striker in his hey days, he specially told MTNFootball.com that he will wear an under shirt in Saturday’s final against Bayern Munich. The former Plateau United player said he has heard about the goal king's exploits for the Super Eagles, which have made him to respect Yekini, who deserves honour from every Nigerian. "I didn't watch him very much, I think I saw him briefly at France 1998, I was about 10 or 11 years old then, but I have read and heard a lot about him,” Mikel told MTNFootball.com “He was a legend who is worth celebrating and so I will celebrate and honour him in my little way at the final of Champions League, where I will wear a t-shirt with a special inscription in his honour under my jersey and I will reveal it after the first half and after the game. “And when we win the final, I will dedicate the victory to him as well." Mikel, who is only the third Nigerian to feature in the UEFA Champions League final, has fully recovered from an ankle complaint in time for the epic battle against Bayern Munich at the Allianz Arena in Munich on Saturday.

I am ready for Eagles game,MIKEL

Chelsea midfielder, John Mikel Obi has again declared his 100 per cent effort and commitment to the Super Eagles as Nigeria prepares for a hectic month of both 2013 African Cup of Nations and 2014 World Cup qualifiers. Mikel said he will be available for all the Super Eagles qualifiers against Namibia, Malawi and Rwanda, if picked by coach Stephen Keshi. Nigeria host Namibia in a 2014 World Cup qualifier on June 3 in Calabar and a week later the Eagles will be away in Malawi in continuation of the qualifying tournament. They will then welcome Rwanda in a second leg qualifying match for the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations on June 17 after both teams played out a 0-0 draw in Kigali in February. Keshi has demanded for assurances from the Chelsea midfielder before he would be picked for these games. "I am always happy to play for Nigeria and my commitment should never be in doubt,” Mikel who has yet to feature for the country under Keshi told MTNFootball.com Monday from his London base. “I am 100 per cent ready to play for Eagles under new manager Stephen Keshi, who has been doing well since he took charge. “I am ready to honour all the call-ups and give my best on the pitch." He expressed delighted to meet with president of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Aminu Maigari in London recently. "It was a great honour for me that my country’s federation president was in London to watch me play in the FA Cup final,” he said. “We were together after the match, had a great time and discussed at length on how to move the Eagles forward so that we will return to the good, old days. “I gave him my word that I will do my best to see that the Eagles are great again." Mikel has also allayed fear surrounding his ankle injury, saying he will be fit and ready for Saturday’s Champions League final against Bayern Munich. "I am okay now. I trained on Friday, so no cause for alarm. I will play the final of the Champions League," he concluded.

AKABUEZE smashes hat-trick

Nigeria forward Chukwuma Akabueze struck thrice for his team Brann Bergen to win 4-3 at Lillestrom in the Norwegian Tippeligan. These were the first goals by the former Nigeria youth international in the eight-week-old league and he did that within 35 minutes. Akabueze, who has also been capped at full international level, said his treble has set the tone for more goals. "This is the first time I will score this season and it was hat-trick. It was a good sign for me and I am sure more will come to help my team to do well," he said. His goals came in the 10th, 31st and 45th minutes for his hat-trick, which compounded the woes of Lillestrom who are battling for survival. Brann Bergen are 13th on the table with seven points from eight games.

EMENIKE qualifies for UEFA CL,while MUSA misses out

Nigeria striker Emmanuel Emenike will have a chance to rub shoulders with the best players in Europe next season, after his team Spartak Moscow beat hosts Lokomotiv Moscow 2:0 in Sunday's final round of games in the Russian Premier League to qualify for the UEFA Champions League. Emenike, 24, missed the game as a result of a red card he received in their penultimate game against champions Zenit St. Petersburg. Obinna Nsofor featured all 90 minutes for Lokomotiv, but was unable to add to the solitary goal he had scored this season. Meanwhile fellow Nigerian striker Ahmed Musa will miss out on the elite European club competition after CSKA Moscow were beaten 3:1 at Rubin Kazan. Musa was an 80th minute substitute in the game, coming on to replace Liberia winger Sekou Oliseh. CSKA and the league's top striker, Ivorian Seydou Doumbia played the entire game but failed to find the net. There will also be no Champions League football for four-time African Player of the Year Samuel Eto'o whose team Anzhi Makhachkala lost 2:0 at Zenit and will now settle for the Europa League.

SUNSHINE STARS grabs q-final ticket,HEARTLAND out

Sunshine Stars beat Djoliba 1-0 to reach the group stage of the CAF Champions League, while Heartland crashed out of the Confederation Cup. Sunshine advanced to the money- spinning phase of the Champions League 2-1 on aggregate, but Heartland joined fellow Nigerians Warri Wolves to exit the Confederation Cup on the away goals rule after they lost 2-1 at AC Leopard of Congo. Aggregate scores stood at 4-4 but AC Leopard moved to the final round of the qualifiers on the away goal rule as they scored more goals away from home when they lost 3-2 in Owerri a fortnight ago. Heartland woes may be compounded if they are disqualified from the Imo State Federation Cup after their quarterfinal clash with Police Machine FC was abandoned as they languish in 15th place on the Nigeria Premier League table. Sunshine, who reached the last four of the Confederation Cup last year, booked their passage to the last eight of Africa’s foremost club competition thanks to a 35th minute strike by Eagles forward Izu Azuka. Overall, both Sunshine and Djoliba posted a lack lustre display. The group phase of the Champions League will be played from July.

ALUKO signs off season with style,scores hatrick

Nigerian winger Sone Aluko ended the season for trouble-plagued Glasgow Rangers with a superb second half hat-trick in a 4:0 decimation of hosts St. Johnstone. The three points saw the beleaguered dethroned champions finish the season in second place, but 20 points behind bitter rivals Celtic. Despite the club's many problems - including going into administration - the former Flying Eagles star has been on a hot streak since joining from Aberdeen in November last year. Today's goals take his haul to 12 in 21 games for Rangers. It is a form that has not gone unnoticed in Europe and there are speculations linking with clubs in Spain including Espanyol and Rayo Vallecano.

JOEL OBI injured,may miss Eagles friendly

Huge blow for Coach of the Super Eagles, Stephen Keshi. Inter Milan whiz-kid Joel Obi, one of the players the ex Anderlecht libero is counting on for June's quick-fire games against Namibia, Malawi and Rwanda, has been ruled out of action for a month. The 21-year-old has been diagnosed by club doctors with a muscle problem in his left thigh which has made the youngster unavailable for today's final game in the Serie A with Lazio. Obi will be further examined by club doctors on Sunday to know the severity of injury. Similar injuries keep a player on the sidelines for at least four weeks.Inter could still qualify for next season's UEFA Champions League if results go the team's way on Sunday.They are only three points behind third placed Udinese.

OBUH proud of his boys after 1 v 1 draw with Super Eagles

Coach John Obuh has said he has been encouraged by the Flying Eagles showing in a 1-1 draw with the Super Eagles in a test game Friday. The country’s U20 team opened scoring on the hour when Ugonna Ezenwaka’s free kick from distance beat goalkeeper Okiemute Odah in the Eagles goal. The Eagles will later restore parity in the dying minutes of the encounter off a goalmouth scramble. “Generally, it was a good outing by my team. We are encouraged by what we saw in this game, but they are far from the level we want them to be,” remarked Obuh. “There are a few grey areas but that is what is to be expected when you are rebuilding from the scratch.” The African champions are preparing for an eight-nation invitational tournament in Cape Town from May 24. World champions Brazil, Argentina, Ghana and Cameroon are among the teams who will feature at the tournament first won the Flying Eagles last year. “This tournament will help us to expose the players, many of whom are playing international football for the very first time,” said the Flying Eagles handler.

EMENIKE to miss Lokomotiv game after Ethics Committee rejects appeal

Spartak Moscow's Emmanuel Emenike will miss the final match of the season against Locomotiv Moscow on Sunday, championat.com has informed. The Ethics Committee has rubber stamped the decision of the match referee, Vladimir Kazmenko to send off the 25-year-old Nigeria international in the 43rd round of matches against Zenit St Petersburg for his goal celebration. The Committee's argument was based on the notion that the body could not change the referee's verdict. The RFU's Ethics Committee also ruled on Saturday that the suspended disqualification of Emenike for his obscene gesture in the game with Dynamo Moscow on March 25 remains in place. The decision of the Ethics Committee comes as a big blow to Spartak Moscow as they are competing for a spot in next season's UEFA Champions League with city rivals, CSKA Moscow. The Nigerian who joined the side last summer is a very important member of the squad. Former Chairman of the Referee's Board and ex Fifa referee Sergei Khusainov has criticized the decision of the Ethics Committee, saying it's decision was absurd and the body had the right to overturn Emenike's red card. Three years ago, the Ethics Committee had cancelled the referee's decision to expel the Russian goalie, Akinfeeva in a Premier League match.

VICTOR MOSES will quit Wigan claims agent

21-year-old Nigeria international Victor Moses is set to depart Wigan at the end of the season,his agent,Tony Finnigan has told British tabloid The Sun.Moses is one of the reasons why the Latics survived the drop this season. The former England youth-teamer has netted five times with one game left to play in the Premiership.Finnigan says contract talks between Wigan and Moses have stalled.With certainty, Moses,who runs out of contract at the end of next season,will be leaving a year earlier to enable the club recoup some of its investment.''I think what Wigan have done is tremendous and shows it was the right place for him to go after Palace.But now I think Victor is ready for the next step,'' says Finnigan to The Sun and adds:''He still has lots of improving to do in terms of scoring goals more regularly.But I think that would come if he was surrounded by better players. That's what he wants and is why he won't be extending his contract.I can't see Victor changing his mind." Liverpool, Newcastle United and Sunderland are understood to be interested in the capture of Moses.

Calabar confirmed to host EAGLES

Nigeria Thursday confirmed that the southern city of Calabar will host next month’s 2014 World Cup qualifier against Namibia.Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) executive committee member Emeka Iyama disclosed: "It’s official - Calabar has been cleared to host the Eagles June games. We are confident they will do a good job.” The eastern town of Owerri were in the race to stage the June 3 clash after both the Abuja National Stadium as well as the Ahmadu Bello Stadium in Kaduna was ruled out.The pitch at the Abuja Stadium pitch is in a very bad state,while Kaduna was ruled out following security concerns after recent deadly bomb attacks by terrorists.Calabar hosted a 2012 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Madagascar,which the Eagles won 2-0.The Cross River State government have also undertaken to cater for the country’s U17 team for a month beginning this week.

JOEL OBI not leaving Inter,says Agent

There is a 99 per cent chance that Inter Milan midfielder Joel Obi will remain at the club next season,his agent Renzo Contratto has said.Contratto's position comes in the wake of speculations linking the 20-year- old Super Eagles star with a possible summer move to Napoli."I don't know anything about a deal between Napoli and Inter for Joel," Contratto told Radio Kiss Kiss."I think there is a 99 per cent chance that Obi will remain in Milan.The Nerazzurri believe in youngsters like him and I don't think they'll sell him".Obi came through the Inter youth system and has become an increasing presence in the first team.The left- sided star has played 37 games in all competitions for the Nerazzurri this season,netting once.

AUSTIN EJIDE handed Eagles call-up

ISRAEL-BASED goalkeeper,Austin Ejide will be recalled to the Super Eagles after over five months in international wilderness.Ejide was last in action for the Eagles in coach Samson Siasia’s last game in charge,a friendly against Ghana in London,which ended in a goalless draw with Ejide drawing a couple of top-class saves.His club Maccabi Petah Tikva was relegated this season after it finished 14th in the 16-team Israeli championship.Super Eagles goalkeeper trainer,Ike Shorumu told MTNFootball.com in an exclusive interview that three goal keepers would be named for the June qualifiers against Namibia, Malawi and Rwanda."You know my department is very sensitive.I have settled for three goal keepers for the June games: two foreign- based and one home-based.Vincent Enyeama,Austin Ejide and Chigozie Agbim," he specially disclosed. “The idea is to have Agbim learn from the two foreign-based like I did during my days with Peter Rufai and Wilfred (Agbonavbare)." Shorunmu, who played professionally in Switzerland for several seasons,added that he was not disturbed that Eagles first-choice Enyeama has yet to establish himself at French club Lille. “For him to be on the bench week in,week out and travel with the team means he is in top shape,so it will be wrong to say he is not fit,” defended Shorunmu.

NIGERIA continues to drop in FIFA rankings

NIGERIA’S ranking on the monthly FIFA ranking continues to nosedive as the country dropped three places on the latest ranking released by the world's football ruling body.According to the May ranking, Nigeria which ocuppied the 60th position in the last ranking released last month is now placed 63rd in the world.Shockingly, Sierra Leone rose two places above Nigeria, climbing to the 61st position for the first time in history to stay atop Nigeria.South Africa were the biggest African risers in the FIFA rankings this month, edging up four places to 67th spot.Ivory Coast remain top in Africa at 15th,with Ghana second highest (22nd).DR Congo were the biggest fallers,dropping five places to 124th position.The 1974 African champions are now rated below the likes of Benin,Central African Republic and Sao Tome and Principe.Similarly,Nigeria - which have competed at four World Cups and won two Africa Cup of Nations tournaments - have now dropped below Sierra Leone in the rankings. Sierra Leone,whose population of six million is dwarfed by Nigeria's total in excess of 160m,have never travelled to a World Cup and have only ever competed at two Nations Cups - in 1994 and 1996,with Tunisia moving up to eight as Egypt dropped down the rankings.World and European champions Spain still top the rankings.

VVV Venlo May offer UCHEBO new contract

VVV Venlo have made a U-turn regarding the contract situation of the Nigerian striker Michael Uchebo.Previously,it was reported that the former Nigeria youth-teamer will be leaving the Limburg based club at the end of the season.Uchebo's recent performances in the Eredivisie has tilted the scales in his favor as Venlo are now interested in activating the clause in his contract of an additional two seasons.''Michael thinks it's time for another chapter.On the other hand,for the first time since coming to VVV Venlo,he is really happy.''But we now await the playoffs first,and will then resolve.Not only finances play a role,Michael needs a longer stay,'' Uchebo's agent,Tony Harris told Voetbal International.The 22-year-old is on the radar of clubs in Ukraine and Russia (Terek Grozny).Should Uchebo remain with Venlo next season,he would be smiling to the bank with at least 450,000 euros (90 million Naira) as annual wages.

CARLTON COLE Thanks Fans For Support

28-year-old Anglo-Nigerian forward Carlton Cole has praised the West Ham supporters who went behind the team in Monday night's second leg of the semi-finals of the Championship play-off against Cardiff City.''Woken up with a smile on my face,now it's time to focus on the biggest day of my career to date,the 19th has me thirsty for success.Can I just add the support our fans have given us has been immense. Brilliant !! Now time to carry that on into wembley and finish the job!'' Cole said on his official Twitter account.West Ham will meet the winner of the second semi-final between Birmingham City and Blackpool in Wembley on May 19.

Chelsea boss Di Matteo hails OBI MIKEL

Chelsea boss Roberto di Matteo is delighted with the current form of midfielder John Obi Mikel.Di Matteo agreed that Mikel has been one of the stand-out performers of his spell calling the managerial shots.The Italian said: "Obi played before I took over, but maybe not as regularly. "I just felt there was a need for everybody.I have seen Mikel play many, many times,seen his qualities and just tried to give him the confidence to express himself at the highest level.

Di Matteo just like Hiddink,says MIKEL

Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel has likened manager Roberto di Matteo to former Blues boss Guus Hiddink.The Nigerian regards Di Matteo's man- management as "fantastic"."All the players, even the big players,look at what he is doing and hopefully the club will make the right decision."For me, he is like Guus Hiddink - very similar in the way both Hiddink and Jose Mourinho did the job.He has come in and noticed where the problem is and put it right and is very good tactically."

KESHI: MIKEL,UTAKA for Eagles

Nigeria coach Stephen Keshi has revealed that Chelsea ace Mikel Obi as well as France-based striker John Utaka are set to return next month.Mikel has yet to feature under Keshi,who was appointed in November,while Utaka fell out of favour since he made the final squad for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa."For Mikel Obi,he is on the books for players I am looking at for the month of June and like every other player I have been monitoring,for instance John Utaka is doing very well in France and nobody is talking about him,” Keshi told MTNFootball.com in an exclusive interview.“The young boy at VVV Venlo,Michael Uchebo (also interests me),he scored at the weekend and he’s on my books for the June games." Utaka has rediscovered his form after he returned to the French Ligue 1 from England as he has fully established himself at title-chasing Montpellier.Keshi has been equally delighted with the form of winger Victor Moses,who he capped in a 2013 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier in Rwanda in February.“Victor Moses has been in a devastating form and I am happy because it’s good for the National team," saluted the Eagles coach.

Wigan tell Spurs,Liverpool £10M for MOSES

The Mirror says Wigan have slapped a £10million price tag on Victor Moses in a final bid to ward off suitors from their prize asset.The 21-year-old forward alerted Liverpool and Tottenham to his availability last month when he broke off contract talks with the Latics,having grown frustrated with the pace of negotiations.

OBINNA OBIEFULE two goals away from setting all-time goals record in Malta

Mosta FC Obiefule was the hero as he scored 4 goals in the 5-0 bashing of Marsaxlokk.Danilo Doncic holds the record with 32 goals and Obiefule is now in a position to shatter the record. "I am fulfilled with this achievement. It was a great night for me. I thank my mate for their support,” the younger brother of former Eagles star Paul Obiefule said in an exclusive interview “Now that I have passed the 30-goal target,I believe I can go all the way to score two more goals and rewrite history in Malta.“I also hope the Eagles coach will give me chance to come and prove myself in the national team”.Obiefule opened his goals rush in the 20th minute with a superb solo effort.He got his second goal in the 47th minute and two minutes later,the Nigerian goal poacher made it 3-0 for Mosta FC.In the 49th minute,Obiefule rounded the opposing goalkeeper before he slotted the ball home to reach his 30- goal target.However, he was not done yet as he scored his final goal of the night in the 53rd minute with another solo effort.

EMMANUEL EMENIKE sent off for obscene Gesture

Nigeria striker Emmanuel Emenike scored a vital goal for Spartak Moscow as they came from behind to record an impressive 3:2 away win over Russian champions Zenit St. Petersburg in a league game on Sunday.Emenike,24, was sent off in the 85th minute for what the referee called an obscene gesture.The Nigerian put his right palm on his left elbow when celebrating his goal in the 84th minute.The celebration was reportedly directed to the Zenit supporters.''Until now, I remain shocked on the decision of the referee.I do not understand why I was removed.It was the usual celebration of a goal.I just patted my hand like Samuel Eto'o did in the Champions League final.''And as soon as I scored,if you noticed,I ran towards the podium of the Spartak fans.I am sure that the relevant football authorities will eliminate this misunderstanding,and will make a fair decision - to cancel the red card,'' Emenike told Official website of Spartak Moscow.According to Russian News Agency,Ria Novosti, Spartak Moscow intend to appeal the decision of the referee.''The referee didn’t understand the incident with Emenike’s goal.Emenike was just clapping, just applauding.We’ve got a crucial game with Lokomotiv coming up and we’ve lost our main striker.We’ll submit an appeal against this decision,'' Spartak assistant coach Andrei Tikhonov told RIA Novosti.

FALCONETS spanks DR Congo 4 - 0

Nigeria female team are a foot into the FIFA U20 World Cup in Japan after a 4-0 spanking of DR Congo in a first leg qualifier. In the match played Saturday in Abeokuta,the host team led 1-0 by half time courtesy of a 36th minute goal by skipper Gloria Ofoegbu. Francisca Ordega doubled Nigeria’s avantage,before Ebere Orji made it 3-0 on 79 minutes. Desire Oparanozie fluffed several chances,before Skipper Ofoegbu completed the trouncing four minutes from time to make the return leg match an uphill task for the Congolese in a fortnight. Ofoegbu dedicated her brace to Nigeria all-time top scorer Rashidi Yekini,who passed on Friday. The overall winners of this match-up will qualify for the 2012 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup in Japan. Nigeria made history two years ago when they reached the final of the global tournament in Germany.

Erstwhile Super Eagles Star RASHIDI YEKINI Dies

Former Super Eagles star Rashidi Yekini has sadly been reported dead on the 4 May 2012.Yekini is known for his exploits with the super eagles successes in both Africa's and word's soccer b4 he retired after a relatively successful career with both country and club football.Rest In Peace Yekini.We will always remember your exploits on the pitch even if we where still very young. SOURCE: NTA

Injured YUSSUF AYILA out for the season

Dynamo Kiev defender Yussuf Ayila will have arthroscopy surgery on his damaged knee in Belgium on Friday writes Sport-Express Ukraine.The Nigeria international has not featured for the Ukrainian vice- champions since March when he slipped and fell in the elevator! The surgery is to be held at the Belgian clinic of Professor Martens. It involves cleaning of the joint which apparently has a foreign body,a microscopic piece is broken off.Ayila won't take part in Dynamo Kiev's last two games of the season,as he has been ruled out of action for one month.He will join the rest of his team-mates when pre-season summer training starts in Austria.

ARSENAL to play preseason match in NIGERIA

Arsenal will play a top African national team in Nigeria this summer as part of the English Premier League side's global preseason tour that also includes visits to China and Malaysia.Arsenal's first match ever on Nigerian soil will be at the 60,000-seater Abuja National Stadium on Aug. 5 against opposition yet to be confirmed. It will be the London club's first visit to Africa since a tour to South Africa in 1993. The match in Abuja will conclude a preseason tour that starts in Kuala Lumpur when the team plays a Malaysia XI on July 24.Arsenal plays Manchester City in Beijing three days later and Kitchee FC in Hong Kong on July 29.

DR Congo arrives Abeokuta for Falconets

Democratic Republic of Congo U-20 women arrived in Abeokuta on Thursday for the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup qualifier against the Super Falconets of Nigeria. DR Congo arrived at the Murtala Muhammed Airport with a contingent of 25 persons,before travelling to the Rock City by road. Both teams are in polar position to pick one of the two tickets available for the World Cup slated for Japan later in the year.The DR Congo squad eliminated Cameroon and also pounded Mali,conquerors of Equatorial Guinea,in the last round. Falconet's Head Coach, Edwin Okon, however remains confident of the team's ability. “We are well-prepared for this match,” Okoh said.“Our focus is on a good win ahead of the second leg match in Kinshasa”. The match officials from Uganda also arrived on Thursday aboard an Ethiopian Airline flight from Addis Ababa. The winner of this fixture will qualify as one of Africa’s two flag-bearers at the 2012 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup billed for Japan in August/September.

IGHALO strike ease Granada relegation worries

Nigerian striker Odion Ighalo scored both goals for his side Granada as they beat Espanyol 2:1 at home in a Spanish La Liga game on Tuesday.The striker has been in a rich vein of form as he also scored at the weekend when Granada lost 1-3 to UD Levante. Ighalo who has now scored four goals in the La Liga this season scored on the 29 and 34 minutes which helped boost the Andalusian club survival as they are now in 15th place on the table as a result of the crucial victory over the Barcelona- based club.Ighalo was replaced by compatriot Ikechukwu Uche in the 65th minute.

STEPHEN KESHI invites five foriegn based pros fo Peru friendly

Eagles Coach Keshi has listed 31 players including five foreign based professionals for May 23rd friendly game against Peru in Lima.Most of the players that prosecuted the friendly match against Egypt were recalled.Four new home based players have been invited for the tie - Hamza Onwuemenyi,Marcel Obioha from Gombe United,Emma Nwachi of Dolphin and Samson Pius.The five foriegn based players invited are Turkey-based Ekigho Ehiosun,Gege Soriola of Free State Stars in South Africa,Obiora Nwankwo of Parma,Nnamdi Oduamadi of Italian club Torino and Raheem Lawal of Spanish side Atletico Belaeres.The invited players are expected to resume training on May 6 in Abuja.Nigeria departs for the South American nation on May 19.

ODIBE interesting top European clubs

Ligue 1 outfit Marseille and German Bundesliga side,Werder Bremen are the latest top clubs battling for the service of Nigerian defender Michael Odibe who plays for Arsenal Kiev of Ukraine. According to a source close to the player in Ukraine,he said: "Some clubs are coming to Ukraine,specifically to Arsenal Kiev and that has brought doubts on the future of Odibe who could be on his way out of the club if the offers are reasonable. But I can authoritatively reveal to you that Marseille and Weder Bremen are the surest clubs looking for Odibe right now." The source also revealed EPL club Fulham and Shaktar Doneskt are also in the race to sign the player but there are no official negotiation yet. "After he scored his 4th goal of the season,Fulham and Shaktar came for negotiation but it was unofficial through an agent but with the way things are going,he may end up playing in either Germany or France if he chooses to leave the club for now." After the conversation with his close source,9jasoccerboys contacted Odibe in a telephone conversation to hear his own side of the story but he (Odibe) insisted that he is currently enjoying the challenge of consistent playing time with Kiev but did admit that he would one day like to play in one of the top clubs in Europe like Arsenal FC of London. He said "Yes,I love everything here because I was given the chance to prove myself and that was the reason why I could give my best.“Sincerely speaking, I don’t know where my future lies as I’m speaking with you. I just hope to keep my fitness and focus but I wanna play at the top level next season".

UCHE NWOFOR relegated to the stands

Relegation threatened Dutch club VVV Venlo have axed Nigeria striker Uche Nwofor for poor form lately.He has been relegated to the stands as VVV battle for their top flight existence.“Coach Ton Lokhoff has dropped Nwofor because he said he is not in form”,a top source disclosed. The 20-year-old Nwofor was not in the squad for last Saturday’s Dutch Eredivisie tie at home against ADO Den Haag, which VVV won 2-1. However,compatriots Michael Uchebo and Alex Nkume featured in the fixture. The former Enugu Rangers star moved to VVV soon after the 2011 FIFA U20 World Cup in Colombia,where Nigeria reached the last eight. He has so far scored four goals in 17 appearances for the Dutch club. However, VVV are again in the relegation/promotion bracket along with De Graaschap. Last season,they only stayed back in the top flight after they topped the relegation playoffs thanks to the goals of Ahmed Musa,who has since moved on to Russian club CSKA Moscow.

Eintracht Frankfurt eyes CHRISANTUS

NEWLY promoted German Bundesliga side,Eintracht Franfurt has expressed serious interest in ex-Nigeria U17 star Macauley Chrisantus,his agent has said. Chrisantus’s agent Adam Mohammed told MTNFootball.com they have received an enquiry from Frankfurt,which has fought their way back to the German Bundesliga after they were relegated last season. “We have an interest from Eintracht Frankfurt already”, Mohammed told MTNFootball.com. “We will look at all the possibilities in the summer.” The 21-year-old striker’s contract at German Bundesliga outfit Hamburger SV will run out in the summer of 2013. Eintracht Franfurt is the club who gave Austin ‘Jay Jay’ Okocha his big break in Europe and is currently top of the Bundesliga 2 standings on 68 points with two matches to spare. Eintracht and second-placed SpVgg Greuther Furth, who are also on 68 points, are battling for the overall championship in the lower league after they both guaranteed themselves places in the German top flight next season. Macauley has scored eight goals for Eintracht’s city rivals FSV Frankfurt in the Bundesliga 2 on loan from Hamburg.

JOEL OBI scores first Serie A goal

Inter Milan midfielder,Joel Obi scored his first goal for his Serie A side in Sunday's 2-1 win and quickly dedicated the strike to his family.Obi,who had been trying to open his goal account for Il Biscione,was delighted with his goal. He was quoted as saying by the official website of Inter Milan: ''I'm happy with the goal.I finally did it after so many matches,even though it was half an own-goal.I dedicate it to my family and all my friends whom I love and who have always supported me.'' Adds Obi: ''The great performance of the whole team,especially because today the result counted.It was important for the standings. Today I also did well in defence,because it was also my task to cover at the back. Gradually we're getting used to Stramaccioni's work methods and this is also fundamental. I like my role.I have a lot of freedom,both in attack and in defence''.Meanwhile, Italy's number one sports daily La Gazzetta Dello Sport reported yesterday that Joel Obi could be one of the players to be used as make- weight in the deal by Inter Milan to land the highly rated Napoli striker Ezequiel Lavezzi.

VICTOR MOSES earns Roberto Martinez praise

Roberto Martinez after his side routing of Newcastle United on Saturday hailed Nigeria international,Victor Moses.Wigan thumped Newcastle 4-0 in front of their supporters at the DW Stadium,their biggest win since Martinez was appointed manager. "The chances we've been creating lately are down to the pattern of play that the players are showing a real understanding in and their movement off the ball was very effective. "Then,in front of goal,the finishes from Franco Di Santo,Shaun Maloney and Victor Moses were top class,'' says Roberto Martinez to the club's official website .Wigan could guarantee their Premier League status if they get four points from their next two games against Blackburn Rovers and already relegated Wolves.

Red hot VICTOR MOSES scores brace as Wigan fights for EPL survival

Newly recruited Super eagles forward Victor Moses scored a quick-fire first half brace to help Wigan Athletic beat highflying Newcastle United 4:0 in an English Premier League game on Saturday. The 21-year-old's form has been pivotal to Wigan's impressive fight to beat the drop which has seen famous casualties like Manchester United, Arsenal, Liverpool and Newcastle in recent weeks. He headed his team ahead in the 13th minute, and two minutes later doubled their advantage when he struck home from close range. Team- mate Shaun Moloney made it three on 36 minutes, before an exquisitely lofted ball from outside the area saw Argentine forward Franco Di Santo seal the win in first half stoppage time. Wigan moved into the 16th position and now have two games to safeguard their top- flight status. Super Eagles star Moses' magnificent form this season has drawn attention from some of the league's top clubs, with Liverpool and Tottenham among his admirers. His double today takes his tally to six goals in 36 games this term

SUPER EAGLES camp opens May 6

Camp of the Super Eagles will be opened in Abuja on May 6,to prepare the team for the international friendly match against Peru in Lima on May 23,and also for the upcoming African Nations Cup and World Cup qualifiers slated for June. The Super Eagles were also scheduled to play Gabon in a friendly,but agreeing on a suitable date for both countries has shelved the game indefinitely,because of a hectic qualifying series.Both countries are expected to work out a beneficial date that will not hamper their qualifiers. Coach Stephen Keshi,who is expected back in the country on Sunday to release the list of players to execute the programme,has rejected the idea of a foreign camp in Faro Portugal.Keshi prefers to prepare his team here in Nigeria “for me,I don’t think there is any need for that,for now because what we should all be thinking about for now is how the team will qualify for the two competitions ahead of us.The matches we’re going to play in the qualifiers are against African teams but I won’t say much about that until I’m briefed by the NFF.” Nigeria will play three crucial qualifiers against Namibia, Rwanda and Malawi in June.

Reading ready to swoop on YAKUBU

According to report by Goal.com the Championship winners have placed the Nigerian at the top of their summer shopping list and want him to lead their line when they return to the Premier League next season. However,Goal.com has learned that Reading will only make a move if Rovers are relegated from the top flight. The 29-year-old has two years remaining on his Blackburn contract after moving from Everton for £1.5million last summer. But he is unlikely to be willing to drop down a division following a prolific season in which his Premier League haul of 16 goals from 27 matches is bettered only by Robin van Persie, Wayne Rooney and Sergio Aguero. Yakubu,who is playing for his fifth English club since moving to Portsmouth in 2003, revealed in February that he rejected interest from QPR in the January window. “I said 'I don’t want to go',” he explained.“Blackburn gave me the opportunity to play in the Premier League again so for me to just go and want to leave,I don’t want to do that. “I’m lucky to be here,they gave me the opportunity to prove myself so why do I have to leave? I had made the decision I didn’t want to leave, I wanted to stay here and help the team stay in the Premier League”. Goal.com

SUPER EAGLES Coach to arrive Nigeria on sunday

Super Eagles gaffer Stephen Keshi is due in Nigeria Sunday from the United States of America, where he has been vacationing. He will return to begin preparing the team for crucial friendlies and qualifiers in the coming weeks. The national team are to report to Abuja on Sunday,May 6, ahead of the international friendly against Peru in Lima. The Peru match is fixed for May 23. Nigeria also have three crucial qualifiers against Namibia, Rwanda and Malawi in June. Keshi said there are not expected to be many changes in the squad he will soon name as his rebuilding process is nearing a crucial stage where he has to have a standing team for the qualifiers.

Tragic event after CHELSEA UCL win

Seven Chelsea fans were burnt alive when the bus they were travelling in went up in flames after it somersaulted in Lagos Tuesday night.The seven fans met their death inside a public bus popularly called ‘Danfo’ on their way to the densely populated Lagos neighbourhood of Ojuelegba from Ojota. Eye witnesses told the sports daily Soccer Star that the bus driver was drunk,which led to his reckless driving. Mean while in another Lagos neighbourhood of Shasha, John Idoko,23,died from stab wounds after he got into a bitter debate during Tuesday’s Champions League semi-final clash. Police spokesman Jaiyeoba Joseph confirmed the incident and said the killers of Idoko are still at large. An eye witness,Kayode Olumide,said rival fans belonging to both Barcelona and Chelsea battled with broken bottles and planks soon after the match was blown off at the Camp Nou.

PETER UTAKA scores first goal of the season for Chinese club

Ousted Super Eagles forward Peter Utaka was happy after he broke his duck with his first goal in China at the weekend. The Nigeria star was on target for his new Chinese Super League side Dalian Aerbin as they salvaged a point away at Guozhou Renhen courtesy of a 2-2 draw. “I am relieved now and I believe more goals will follow,” said Utaka, who moved to China for the cash during the winter transfer window. "I have been doing my best to score since I came here and I wasn't happy I was yet to score because I know a lot is expected from me. “But I am sure the goals will come now because my dream is to win the top scorer's award, it is not late. I will do it and help my team finish well on the table." The former Odense of Denmark striker has scored once in seven games, four goals short of the league’s scorer Dario Conca of leaders Guangzhou Evergrande. Utaka’s Dalian Aerbin are now 13th on the table.

MIKEL wants UEFA to Rescind Champions League suspensions

Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel thinks the three players who are suspended from the Champions League final should have their bans rescinded. The midfielder was also booked but was not already on a caution so will be available for the game, but he admitted the four who will miss the game through suspension. John Terry’s red card for kneeing Alexis Sanchez means he joins Branislav Ivanovic, Ramires and Raul Meireles on the suspended list – the latter three being the bookings that Mikel thinks to be so unjust. “The yellow cards should be cancelled going into a final and UEFA should look into that,” he is quoted as saying in The Telegraph. “When you get to the final everyone wants to see the best players and it's a shame that JT, Ivanovic, Meireles and Ramires won't play.” The Nigeria international felt that Barcelona’s Chilean winger was overreacting to minimal contact and accused him of doing the same when Mikel received his own booking for a late foul. The defensive midfielder confirmed the players who are set to miss out were understandably devastated, but was confident Roberto di Matteo’s side could lift the trophy for those set to miss out. “The JT one was soft from what I saw and it was a yellow card.I think Sanchez made the most of it,” he added. “Alexis did the same to me as well.He got me yellow carded.There was a little touch and he rolled on the ground ten times.He definitely made the most of it. “The four players were devastated in the dressing room.They’re happy for the team but are very disappointed to not be in the final. We will go out to win the trophy for them.Chelsea will be playing Bayern Munich in the finals of the Uefa Champions league on the 19 of May in Munich.

GBOLAHAN SALAMI Confirms Fenerbahce Interest

Enyimba forward Gbolahan Salami has confirmed that Turkish giants Fenerbahce are interested in his signature. He told Nigerian Tribune: ''I was told by my agent that there is a possibility of playing in the Turkish League and he told me of Fenerbahce and other clubs but for now I put everything in the hands of God and I am hoping that He will do the best for me. "My agent is working while my duty is to play and continue to do well. Fenerbahce is a good club I will like to play for them.'' Two other European powerhouses - AC Milan and Manchester City - have also been linked with the former Nigeria Under 23 international.

TAIWO ‘Sickened’ By Age Cheat Rumours

Nigeria international Taye Taiwo says he is sickened by rumours making the rounds about age cheating involving him and his late twin. Taiwo turned 27 on April 16, but a BlackBerry broadcast message with unknown origins claimed that while the QPR defender was celebrating his 27th in London, his supposed twin brother was marking his 39th. The message quickly went viral, with some claiming the supposed twin turned 37, and others 33. It is, however, common knowledge among close friends and relatives of the Taiwos, that Taye’s twin, a girl, died barely two months after they were born. Taiwo, who helped Rangers to a critical 1-0 win over Tottenham Hotspur over the weekend, is understandably angry. “I don’t know what kind of sick joke this is, or the kind of sick person who will come up with it,” he tells KickOffNigeria.com. “I did not even know my twin. I was very young when my father told me that she died when we were young. “Why is it that people are always looking for a way to bring others down? I don’t understand it.”

Barca under pressure,says MIKEL

Chelsea ace Mikel Obi has said Barcelona and not Chelsea will be the team under pressure when both teams clash in Tuesday’s Champions League semi-final. Chelsea won the first leg match by the odd goal and Mikel in an exclusive interview said that they are very relaxed going into the return clash at Camp Nou Tuesday night. The Chelsea midfielder again admitted it will be another tough match between the two clubs, but Chelsea hold the advantage. "We are going into the game at Camp Nou with one thing on our mind - that is to secure the UEFA Champions League final ticket,” said Mikel. “It is going to be a tough game for both sides but we are at advantage going into the game with a goal from first leg. “They will be under pressure to win and not us, and the draw with Arsenal was a good test for us ahead of the clash. “The last time we went there, we did not lose, so the same thing will happen in this game. We are ready for the battle." Chelsea have not lost in their last three visits to Barcelona with the last being a barren draw in the 2009 UEFA Champions League semi-final.

VICTOR MOSES wanted by Sunderland

According to Daily Express Sunderland are monitoring the contract situation of the Nigerian winger Victor Moses and could table a bid for him in the summer. The 21-year-old Nigeria international,who made his debut in February against Rwanda in Kigali,runs out of contract with the Latics in the summer and is stalling on putting pen to paper on a new deal which has alerted a horde of clubs. Liverpool,Tottenham Hotspur and Aston Villa are also interested in the signature of one of Nigeria's brightest talents. Moses has scored four goals in 35 appearances for Wigan who are battling to save their Premier League status.

Student squanders school fees while celebrating Real Madrid victory

A Real Madrid F.C. fan in Abakaliki on Saturday night squandered his school fee while celebrating the team’s victory over Barcelona F.C. The News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, recalls that Real beat Barcelona 2-1 in an away match in the Spanish La Liga, to earn a seven-point lead over the latter. The fan, Ekene Emigo, a student of Ebonyi State University, ordered food and drinks for football fans at Kingol Guest House soccer viewing centre at Uyanwa Street, Abakaliki. Emigo told NAN that he spent more than N70, 000 on drinks and food for other fans, adding that although that was his school fee, he did not regret the action. He said with the victory, Real had avenged its four seasons nightmare in the hands of Barcelona.

SONE ALUKO scores sixth goal for Rangers

Nigeria international winger Sone Aluko fired his sixth goal for Scottish giants Rangers as they beat hosts Hearts 3-1 Saturday. The former Aberdeen player opened the goal floodgate with a 29th minute strike to put his team ahead. Aluko is a subject of transfer speculations as he will be a free agent at the end of the season. Rangers are now second on the table with 66 points behind champions Celtic, who have amassed 81 points.

KALU UCHE'S international future at risk

Vietnamese Club V.Ninh Binh have threatened to report the Nigeria international and Espanyol forward Kalu Uche to world's football governing body,Fifa over his failure to refund money he collected in 2011 as sign on bonus from the club. The most concrete interest for Kalu's services when is former team[Almeria] were demoted was from a team in Asia, V.Ninh Binh. The Vietnamese club were even willing to match Almeria's 100 billion Vietnam dong (3.5 million euros) valuation of Kalu Uche. Kalu Uche and his agent, Jose Rodriguez Baster received advance payment from V.Ninh Binh which they failed to return when the proposed transfer met a brick-wall. ''Uche and Jose Rodriguez Baster representatives (the company Promosport BCN, Barcelona, Spain) had received an amount of money from us. If Uche had signed the contract, V.Ninh Binh would have said nothing about it. But when the contract was not signed Uche should have refunded the money to us. ''Currently, the club has nearly completed records to send to FIFA demanding repayment of the money from Uche. We have all papers showing that Uche had collected money from the club. If Uche does not pay the money, V.Ninh Binh will work to make sure he can not compete at international tournaments in the future,''Executive Director Pham Van Le told thanhnien.com.vn. Should V.Ninh Binh carry out its threat of reporting Kalu Uche to Fifa, his availability for Nigeria's three games against Rwanda, Malawi and Namibia in June remains a mystery.

SIDNEY SAM not ready for Nigeria

Stephen Keshi has revealed that Bayer Leverkusen star Sidney Sam may not be ready to play for Nigeria.Keshi, who had planned to visit Germany to talk to Sam, said he would now rather allow the winger to make up his mind on his international future. “I have called Sam over 15 times and each time, the phone dovetails into voice mail and I have always left message, but the player has not responded to any of my messages, that to me is shocking and says a lot about his readiness or otherwise to play for the Super Eagles,” Keshi said. Keshi said while he has not given up on the player, he has for the meantime decided to look beyond him and try other willing Nigerians, even as he has employed some scouts to work on Sam, who has capped by Germany at various age- grade levels.

JOSEPH AKPALA To Sign New Contract At Club Brugge

Joseph Akpala has announced that he will extend his contract which expires at the end of next season. Before the start of the season, the 25-year-old had wanted to leave the blue army as the coach did not guarantee him playing opportunities. He started this season on the bench but soon established himself in the first team squad. Akpala is one of the reasons why Club Brugge are one of the candidates for the league diadem, with 14 goals in Belgium's topflight. ''My manager informed me that an agreement had been reached regarding the final details for a contract extension. I do not know the length of it. Our goal this season was to win a European ticket. It is always the case. But if against Anderlecht, the favorite for the title, we managed to overtake and take first place, we will not miss this opportunity,'' Akpala told nieuwsblad.be.

ODEMWINGIE,EMENIKE to participate in a video against racism

Nigeria internationals Osaze Odemwingie and Emmanuel Emenike, two players that have suffered racism in the Russian Premier League, have participated in the recording of a video against racism which appears on Russian TV on Friday afternoon, informs championat.com. Russian Television, Rain TV, has chosen April 20 as the 'Day of the fight against racism in Russian football'. ''Do you think football is the policy. How racism came to the country that defeated fascism? Who benefits? And when we cease to be afraid of sending their children to the stadium?'' the television station said on its website. The video features Odemwingie, Emenike, Roberto Carlos and Seydou Doumbia. Throughout the day the leading television channel will discuss issues related to racism in Russian football.

KHADIRI IKHANA unveiled as Super Falcons coach,to earn N3m monthly

THE newly appointed Head Coach of Nigeria’s senior female team, Khadiri Ikhana will be taking home a monthly salary of N3 million.Ikhana disclosed this to newsmen on Wednesday during his unveiling ceremony by the Nigeria Football Federation at the FIFA goal project in Abuja, even as the football house handed him a seeming difficult task of ensuring that the Super Falcons qualified for all the championships that are taking place for the next four years.Maigari charged the new coach to ensure that the six- time African champions return to winning ways by qualifying for all the scheduled continental championships and winning them as well as the Female World Cup in 2015 and the Rio-De-Jenerio Olympics in 2016. Apart from the Super Falcons job, the former Enyimba International of Aba handler has been given the authority to oversee the other female teams and to make his inputs to the coaching crew any time he believes he should intervene. ‘Kadiri Ikhana is a very good coach and that is why we decided to engage him for the task of rebuilding our female national team who have failed to qualify for some important championships including the forthcoming London 2012 Olympic Games,’ said Maigari ‘He has the task of repositioning the Super Falcons who have the enviable record of winning six of the seven African Women Championships and I believe he can do it.’

Nigeria U-20 to play in South Africa's 8-nation tournament

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has said the forthcoming Eight-Nation Invitational Tournament in South Africa would be used to assess the national U-20 team in new squad. Head coach of the Flying Eagles John Obuh who disclosed this to reporters in Abuja on Wednesday, however, described as a major setback the inability of players in the U-17 team to move into the national U-20 team. The tournament in Cape Town is scheduled to take place between May 24 and June 3, with Nigeria's Flying Eagles as defending champions. The coach said he was not expecting too much from the team for now, adding that the game would enable the players to test their ability in a competitive match. According to him, the performance of the present crop of players in the team during the trial matches would determine whether there would be any addition or subtraction from the squad. Obuh allayed the fears of clubs that the players might not be released to honor club assignments, saying that playing for their clubs was also good exposure for them. Other countries expected to participate in the tournament are South Africa, Egypt, Brazil, Japan, Argentina, Cameroon and Ghana.

GBOLAHAN SALAMI on the radar of AC Milan,Man City And Fenerbahce

According to report emalnating via Turkish newspaper Vatan, Fenerbahce ,AC Milan and Manchester City are watching the Olympic National Team forward Gbolahan Salami. Scouts of the mentioned clubs have been in Africa scouting the 21-year-old forward as they see him as a player with the right qualities to succeed in Europe. If not for injury, the Enyimba striker would have made his international debut in the high profile friendly against Egypt last week. Gbolahan Salami's first adventure outside Nigeria ended even before it started. Last summer, he joined South African PSL side Mamelodi Sundowns but had his contract terminated months later.

Keshi monitoring RAHEEM LAWAL

Super Eagles coach, Stephen Keshi has set his sights on Atletico Beleares midfielder, Raheem Lawal. The 21-year-old Spain-based Lawal turned out for Nigeria’s Under23s at the London 2012 Olympic football qualifying tournament in Morocco where the “Dream Team V” failed to make the cut for the games. Keshi says he is willing to give the youngster a chance in the national team. “Lawal is young and talented and many Nigerians who have watched him have said he will go places in future, those are the type of talents that we are looking up to in raising a team that Nigeria will be proud of in the near future,” Keshi said. Lawal scored a hat-trick for the Nigerian Under23s in their 4-1 victory over Algeria at the Olympic qualifying tournament in Morocco in December, 2011.

NFF to charter flight for Super Eagles

A top official of the Nigeria Football Federation has disclosed to MTNFootball.com:that the Football Federation have concluded plans to fly the Super Eagles to Malawi in a chartered flight. Nigeria will play against ‘the Flames’ of Malawi in a 2014 World Cup qualifiers on June 9, which will be followed by the second leg qualifiers against Rwanda in Nigeria. “We plan another chartered flight for the World Cup qualifier in Malawi. We want to ensure adequate preparation for the match and as such we are leaving nothing to chance, especially as it concerns the comfort of the players.” In February, the NFF also chartered a flight that set it back by as much as $180,000 (about N29 million) for the team’s 2013 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier in Rwanda. The Eagles flew on special flights for the 2012 Nations Cup qualifiers in Ethiopia and Madagascar. Said the official. Nigeria beat Malawi 1-0 in Blantyre in a 2004 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match. The Eagles also won the reverse fixture 4-1 in Abuja in June 2003.

Overseas-based players still relevant,KESHI

Stephen Keshi,coach of the super eagles insists his foreign players are still very relevant to his plans, despite the increased training and utilisation of players in the Nigerian Premier League for national assignments. There have been increasing calls for Keshi to turn to locally-based players following the recent unconvincing run of the Super Eagles, despite the heavy reliance on the largely Europe-based contingent. The calls have grown louder with the good showing of the domestic Eagles in friendly games against the likes of Zambia and Egypt as well as the recent 2013 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying clash with Rwanda. But Keshi, who has overseen the growing exposure of the home-based Eagles, believes every Nigerian player in good form should be factored into the team's plans. "It will be foolhardy of us to quickly say that we won't use our players who are based abroad in the national team anymore.� Keshi told Supersport.com. "We won't ignore any player doing well whether he plays here (in Nigeria) or plays abroad. But so far such a player is ready to give his best when called up to the team." Keshi expressed belief that the local players were capable of improving further, but cautioned that the rebuilding programme was still very much a work in progress. With the European season drawing to a close and Nigeria facing three consecutive competitive games against Namibia, Malawi and Rwanda in the first three weeks of June, it is unclear how Keshi intends to tackle the challenge.

Emenike Unaware of EPL interest

Emenike, who has scored 12 goals this season for Spartak Moscow, said he has neither been informed by his Russian club or his agent about any interest from English clubs Chelsea, Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur. "I don't think there is anything like that because my club or my manager have not informed me of any interest from Chelsea or any EPL team,” he told MTNFootball.com “EPL is a glamorous league, I even watch games that involve the big teams when I am not busy. But I don’t dream of the EPL, but La Liga, even though I can never tell (where I will be) in the long run.” Emenike said his immediate target is to help Spartak qualify for the Champions League from the Russian championship playoffs. “I am not allowing any speculations to distract me as I am committed to helping the cause of my club to earn UEFA Champions League ticket at the end of the play offs,” he said. “I am focussed on a good performance for Spartak Moscow, I love it here."

NEDUM ONUOHA remains optimistic of survival

QPR defender Nedum Onuoha has urged teammates not to panic over their dwindling survival chances. Rangers blew the chance to put daylight between themselves and the Barclays Premier League bottom three on Saturday when they lost 1-0 at West Brom. It does not get any easier for Mark Hughes' men, who face Tottenham, Chelsea and Manchester City during their last four matches. But defender Onouha said: "At this stage of the season, no-one goes into the final few games and has any easy games to play. "There is always someone trying to prove something somewhere. You just have to look at it that way and try and get as many points as you can. "I am very hopeful of staying up. Hope is the one thing that transcends fear and you have to hope you are going to stay up so in the end things will go your way."

FALCONETS through to the next round after 3 v 0 win over Zimbabwe

Nigeria’s U-20 Women national team on Sunday afternoon proved too hot for Zimbabwe whipping them 3-0. The Nigerians thus moved to the next round of the 2012 FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifiers on a 6-0 aggregate having beaten them 3-0 in the first leg in Abeokuta. Striker, Desire Oparanozie opened scores for the Nigerian side in the 10th minute while Esther Sunday grabbed the second in the 27th minute to keep scores 2-0 at half time. In the second period, substitute, Ebere Orji who came in for Sunday in the 46th minute struck in the 86th minute to compound Zimbabwe’s woes and eliminate them. Nigeria had more ball possession, had more corner kicks and more attempts at goal unlike the Young Mighty Warriors. Kudos must be given to Chief Coach, Edwin Okon for propelling his girls to victory. “Today l am a happy man because my girls played well,” he said. Falconets Keeper, Ebubuleye Whtye was virtually on holiday unlike her counterpart, Portia Makucha who was kept on her toes throughout the encounter. Nigeria will now meet the winner of the Mali/Congo DR encounter next month. The winner will be among the 16 teams at the 2012 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Japan in August.

Chelsea reportedly on the trail of BROWN IDEYE

According to report emanating from goal.com,the London club are said to be in the hunt for the 'new Didier Drogba' as they prepare for the potential exit of their iconic Ivorian hitman in the summer. While big names like Napoli striker Edinson Cavani are being considered, the Blues are also seeking a less expensive option with the potential for superstardom. The former Neuchatel Xamax and Sochaux forward caught the eye after racking up 12 goals in 24 league appearances for Ukrainian side Dinamo Kyiv in what is his debut season. Representatives of the 10m pounds-rated Brown, 23, are understood to have visited London last weekend and met senior Chelsea officials including chief executive Ron Gourlay.

Chelsea loanee KENNETH OMERUO on target in Holland

Nigeria youth international Kenneth Omeruo scored his first goal since he joined Dutch club Ado Den Haag on a season-long loan from Chelsea. The former Standard Liege of Belgium youngster scored his team's second goal in 3-0 bashing of FC Groningen. The highly-rated Omeruo hit target with a header in the 59th minute to take the game beyond Groningen. The home victory lifted injury-hit Den Haag to 14th position with 32 points from 29 matches. The defender has shone since he joined the Dutch Eredivisie team as he has cemented a place in the starting eleven.

KESHI hails Home based Eagles,lambastes Referee

Super Eagles head coach Steven Keshi was full of praise for his side despite loss to Egypt.Keshi blamed the referee for the loss,but rather commended the players for showing character, grit and concentration till the final whistle. “The boys did well despite the odds and there is nothing to feel sad about. To have played this well against such a top side gives cause to be satisfied,” the former Super Eagles captain told SuperSport.com. Keshi said there were positives to pick from the game; his first defeat since he took the reins of the national team on November 2, 2011. “There were a lot of positives to draw from (Thursday’s) game. I am pleased with what I saw from the boys. The future is bright for Nigerian football,”. He also added “The referee if he has a conscience, should know that he robbed us, because we had a penalty that was not given and the last goal looked questionable but like I told you I expected this type of officiating,said Keshi. Nigeria will next play Gabon in another international friendly in Libreville, as well as Peru in Lima next month.

Nigeria to play South Africa in the semi final of the U13 Africa Championship

Defending champions of the Nestle Milo Under 13 African football championship, Nigeria defeated Kenya 6-0 in their second group match to qualify for the semi-finals. Nigeria will take on South Africa at 11am local time in Accra in the second match this Friday. Hosts Ghana will battle Sierra Leone at 9am. The final match will take place later in the evening. Nigeria opened their campaign in the competition scoring the fastest goal of the tournament as they dispatched Sierra Leone 3-0 in a Group B match played on Thursday at the El-Wak Sports Stadium in Accra, Ghana. Nigerians represented by St Stephen Primary School, Lagos Island, Lagos were the pre- match favourites and lived up to the billing at the venue filled up by pupils from different Ghanaian schools. Toheeb Oyelakin opened scoring in the fifth minute and this was followed by the goals from Adeyemi Ashafa also in the first half and Lukman Azeez who sealed victory forthe country in the second half. Nigeria lost a penalty kick which was blown over the bar during the first half. The Nigeria-Sierra Leone game was the second for the day as the teams played in round robin format within each group. Hosts Ghana opened the rain of goals with the 5-0 win over a hapless South African team. The coach of the Nigerian team Ogunnaike Oludayo attributed their victory to discipline. He said, “We are very satisfied with the outing. Hard work, confidence and understanding of themselves helped our players. The kids have become very bold and confident and that played out today.” Nigeria was billed to face Kenya in their second match of the day as at press time while the Ghanaians were scheduled to play against Liberia. The top two teams from the group of three teams will go into the semi final stage Friday morning before the final match in the evening. The competition will be rounded off with a dinner session for the teams at the Holiday Inn before their departure on Saturday. Nigeria won the maiden edition of the competition held two years ago in South Africa.

EGYPT 3 : 2 NIGERIA (Match report)

A Nigeria side composed solely of players from the Nigerian Premier League gave a good account of themselves despite losing 3:2 to a strong Egypt side. The Homebased Eagles scored through Sunday Mba and Kalu Uche while the Pharaohs got their goals through Ahmed Temsah, Mohammed Aboutreika and Ahmed Hassan Mekki in a match which was played in El Nasr stadium,Dubai. it was the Nigerian side that grabbed the lead in the thirteenth minutes through Sunday Mba after good work from Enyimba star Uche Kalu. Egypt fought back to level 12 minutes later through Ahmed Temsah who profited from a defensive error by the Nigerian defence. The Pharaohs then went ahead when Abou-Treika scored from the spot after defender Juwon Oshaniwa fouled a man in the box. Nigeria went on the offensive and were deservedly back on level terms in the 43rd minute, this time Kalu was the scorer after backheeling an Ejike Uzoenyi corner into the net. Egypt made some changes to their squad in the second period, introducing Sunderland star Ahmed Elmohamady and danger man Emad Meteb. In the dying moments Ahmed Hassan Mekki snatched the winner after another defensive blunder by the Super Eagles backline.

CHRISTIAN CHUKWU gives his take on Nigeria v Egypt friendly

Former Nigeria skipper and coach Christian Chukwu has cautioned that today's friendly against Egypt should not be used as a yardstick for measuring how far Super Eagles coach Stephen Keshi has gone in his team rebuilding programme. Chukwu however believes the game will be a good test for the team of home-based players that Nigeria will feature in the tie against the almost full-strength Pharaohs. "The friendly against Egypt on Thursday (today) will be an interesting game but the most important thing is that the players are playing a big game. It's a good test for the home-based players." Chukwu told Complete Sports. The 1980 Africa Cup of Nations winner also urged fans not to bother about the amount of goals scored, saying they should instead see it as an opportunity for the handlers to understand the team better. "Stephen Keshi and his crew are on a rebuilding process. So, we should be more concerned about the effect of such games on the team rather than whether they scored plenty of goals. "However, if the goals come, fine. Nigerian fans should not put enormous pressure on the team." Chukwu added

Nicolas Anelka Named Shanghai Shenhua Player-Coach

Nicolas Anelka has been put in temporary charge of Shanghai Shenhua, according to reports. The France striker, 33, was only lured to the big-spending Chinese outfit from Chelsea in January but has already taken his first steps into management. Anelka is an unlikely candidate for management, having once been branded 'the Incredible Sulk' after falling out with several of his former clubs and having a reputation as a surly character. But Anelka was handed his new role after Shanghai sacked their team's coaching staff following a dismal run. They have won only two of their five matches so far this season. Shenhua confirmed the sackings, but no mention was made of boss Jean Tigana following speculation he had also been axed. However, reports suggest that Tigana is now negotiating a severance package. A club statement read: 'Due to the team's recent record which has not met the expectations and demands of the club's fans, media and other parties and the fact the foreign players are in urgent need of high-quality training the club has made the decision to replace some members of the coaching staff. 'The club will introduce four coaches from the United Kingdom and France to join the coaching staff to provide the necessary training support to ensure the competitive state of the players. 'In addition, the team captain Nicolas Anelka will coach and participate in the team's daily training management.' The Oriental Sports Daily newspaper said the club had sacked the coaches brought on board by Tigana and hired four new ones as replacements. Former Tottenham keeper Ian Walker, who will work with the goalkeepers, and Birmingham fitness coach Dan Harris will also join as new assistants, as do two Frenchmen, Alioune Kissima Toure and Jean-Florent Ikwange Ibenge, according to the newspaper. Anelka, who has also played for Paris Saint-Germain, Arsenal, Real Madrid, Liverpool, Bolton and Galatsaray, is the most high- profile foreign footballer to sign for the Chinese league. Shenhua finished in the bottom half of the table last season. Tigana, the former Fulham and Monaco boss, also joined Shenhua as the club sought out more foreign talent. Shenhua are 11th in China's Super League, having claimed just five points from five games this term.