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Diallo’s Solitary Goal Earns Ivory Coast Victory
Amad Diallo netted the only goal of the game as reigning champions, Ivory Coast pipped Mozambique 1-0 in Wednesday’s 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
The defending champions’ first big chance came in the 26th minute, as Guela Doue delivered a cross into the area, but Yan Diomande blazed over.
the Ivorians battled to break down their opponents in a competitive first half but took firm control after the break without converting the many chances they created.
Read Also:NFF Hails Tinubu On Fulfillment Of Pledges To Eagles’ Players, Officials
Diallo side-footed the ball into the net in the 49th minute to ensure the three-point haul in rainy conditions but the scoreline would have been a lot more emphatic had the Ivorians been sharper in front of goal.
Both sides play the second of their three group stage games on Sunday, when Mozambique meet Gabon in Agadir and Ivory Coast meet five-time champions Cameroon in Marrakech.
The Super Eagles have witnessed diverse attacking talents over decades. Earlier periods relied heavily on individual artistry and audacious long-range efforts.
Modern iterations favour imposing statures, commanding aerial contests, and blistering transitional surges. These shifts underscore tactical refinements in forward selection.
Limited strikers have eclipsed the 20-goal mark internationally. Fans tracking such records often explore top goal scorer markets on platforms like Betwinner Nigeria.
The longstanding pinnacle remains unchallenged, though the pursuit intensifies with each campaign.
Top Goal Scorers in the History of the Nigeria National Team
Introduction: The Men Who Built the Super Eagles Legacy
The Super Eagles’ attacking legacy draws from generations of talented forwards who navigated evolving tactical demands as Nigeria solidified its African football stature.
Enthusiasts following these prolific marksmen often access detailed player stats and goalscorer odds through reliable platforms, completing a quick Betwinner login to explore markets.
Early players excelled through nimble footwork, astute off-ball runs, and potent strikes from distance to outmanoeuvre structured defences in qualifiers.
The 1980s-1990s heyday emphasised physical robustness, sharp penalty-area instincts, and reliable conversion of crosses during dominant continental spells.
Subsequent eras, enriched by European club seasoning, integrated strong hold-up work, neat combinations, and incisive channels behind defences.
Present-day strikers dominate aerial spheres, unleash rapid transitional thrusts, and sustain forward pressing intensity.
Amid these adaptations, a compact group provided reliable scoring, influencing approaches in AFCON showdowns and World Cup pathways while setting enduring standards for future Nigerian attackers.
Nigeria’s All-Time Top Scorers:- From Legends to Modern Superstars
Nigeria boasts a rich tradition of clinical forwards whose international exploits elevated the Super Eagles on continental and global stages.
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1. Rashidi Yekini — 37 Goals (The Eternal King of Nigerian Football)
Rashidi Yekini holds the undisputed record as Nigeria’s leading international scorer. His 37 goals came across 62 appearances between 1984 and 1998.
Powerful headers and opportunistic strikes defined his style. He netted Nigeria’s inaugural World Cup goal against Bulgaria in 1994.
Yekini topped the charts at the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations with five strikes, earning player of the tournament honours as Nigeria claimed gold.
His predatory presence inside the box proved decisive in qualifiers and friendlies alike. European stints at Vitória Setúbal sharpened his finishing edge.
Yekini’s tally remains a benchmark few approach.
2. Victor Osimhen — 31 Goals (The Record Hunter)
Victor Osimhen ranks second and actively chases the summit. By late 2025, the Galatasaray forward amassed 31 goals in 46 caps since debuting in 2017.
Aerial dominance, explosive pace, and ruthless composure characterize his play. Hat-tricks in qualifiers highlight his potency.
Osimhen’s physicality overwhelms defenders, drawing fouls and creating space for teammates. Club success in Serie A and Turkey translated seamlessly to national duty.
His rapid ascent from youth levels underscores relentless drive. At 26, further tallies seem inevitable during upcoming tournaments.
3. Segun Odegbami — 22 Goals (The 1970s & 80s Icon)
Segun Odegbami secured third place with 22 goals. Nicknamed “Mathematical” for precise execution, he dazzled in the late 1970s and early 1980s.
Elegant dribbles and curled efforts from distance marked his arsenal. Odegbami contributed heavily to Nigeria’s 1980 AFCON triumph on home soil.
His vision complemented wing play at Shooting Stars domestically. Graceful movement evaded markers consistently.
Odegbami’s flair embodied an era of individual brilliance before structured tactics dominated.
4. Yakubu Aiyegbeni — 21 Goals (The Premier League Bulldozer)
Yakubu Aiyegbeni registered 21 goals in 58 outings from 2000 to 2012. Robust build and hold-up skills made him a target man par excellence.
Premier League experience at clubs like Everton honed his box instincts. Yakubu converted penalties and rebounds reliably.
His strength shielded possession effectively. Memorable strikes in World Cup qualifiers bolstered campaigns.
Despite occasional criticism, his output proved vital during transitional phases for the Super Eagles.
5. Ikechukwu Uche — 19 Goals (The Underrated Finisher)
Ikechukwu Uche tallied 19 goals across limited appearances. Sharp movement and volley technique distinguished him in the 2000s and early 2010s.
Uche thrived on service from wide areas. Spanish league exposure at Villarrealrefined his timing. Underrated due to injuries, his efficiency shone in bursts.
Key contributions included qualifiers and continental ties.
Other Notable Sharpshooters
Several others left lasting impressions just outside the top five.
- Obafemi Martins (18 goals) gained fame for acrobatic flips celebrating overhead kicks and speed bursts.
- Sunday Oyarekhua (17 goals) featured prominently in the 1970s with consistent scoring in limited caps.
- Samson Siasia (17 goals) combined finishing with leadership, later guiding the Super Eagles as coach.
- Odion Ighalo (16 goals) emerged as top scorer at AFCON 2019 with poised conversions.
- Ahmed Musa (16 goals) holds Nigeria’s World Cup scoring record with four strikes, including braces against heavyweight opposition.
- Kelechi Iheanacho (15 goals) unleashes a deadly left foot, often deciding tight encounters with curled precision.
These marksmen collectively forged Nigeria’s reputation for dynamic attacking football across decades.
Full Table — Nigeria’s All-Time Leading Scorers
Nigeria’s national team has consistently produced lethal forwards whose goals decided crucial qualifiers, AFCON encounters, and World Cup fixtures across decades.
These strikers blended raw power, technical finesse, and opportunistic timing to overcome varied defensive setups.
The table below ranks the most prolific Super Eagles marksmen based on official international appearances. Active players continue accumulating tallies, narrowing gaps in this historic leaderboard.
Rank
Player
Goals
Status
1
Rashidi Yekini
37
Legend
2
Victor Osimhen
31
Active
3
Segun Odegbami
23
Legend
4
Yakubu Aiyegbeni
21
Retired
5
Ikechukwu Uche
19
Retired
6
Obafemi Martins
18
Retired
7
Sunday Oyarekhua
17
Legend
7
Samson Siasia
17
Retired
9
Odion Ighalo
16
Retired
9
Ahmed Musa
16
Retired
11
Kelechi Iheanacho
15
Active
Who Will Break the Records? Future Goal-King Candidates
Rashidi Yekini’s 37-goal benchmark has stood firm for decades, yet current trajectories point to inevitable challenges from active Super Eagles forwards.
Victor Osimhen — The Inevitable Successor
Victor Osimhen stands closest to the throne with 31 goals in 46 caps as of December 2025. His blend of towering leaps, blistering speed, and unyielding physicality terrorises defences consistently.
Recent braces and hat-tricks in qualifiers underscore relentless efficiency. At 26, club form at Galatasaray sustains sharp instincts for Nigeria.
Upcoming AFCON fixtures and World Cup campaigns offer prime opportunities to eclipse Yekini’s mark within years.
Kelechi Iheanacho — The Silent Climber
Kelechi Iheanacho occupies the top-10 fringe with 15 international strikes across 58 appearances. His velvet left foot delivers curled precision and decisive penalties in clutch moments.
Versatile positioning allows seamless drops deep or late box arrivals. Recent moves to Celtic revived consistent minutes, honing composure.
Steady accumulation positions him to climb further, especially if regular starts align with major tournaments.
Emerging Talents
Nigeria’s youth pipeline brims with sharp finishers eyeing senior breakthroughs and long-term record assaults.
These prospects showcase varied attributes from European academies and leagues.
- Salim Fago Lawal — Croatian-based forward with clinical movement and poaching instincts, already earning provisional call-ups and spot in AFCON 2025 squad.
- Rafiu Durosinmi — Powerful Viktoria Plzeň striker blending hold-up strength and prolific league output.
- George Ilenikhena — Monaco teenager offering mobility, box lethality, and dual-nationality potential.
- Victor Boniface — Werder Bremen marksman known for dribbling flair and goal threat in Bundesliga.
- Gift Orban — Explosive finisher drawing European interest through rapid scoring bursts.
- Akor Adams — Sevilla forward combining pace and aerial prowess in La Liga.
- Ebenezer Akinsanmiro — Midfielder-forward with technical skill, included in AFCON 2025 as new face.
These names signal sustained attacking depth for future Super Eagles cycles.
Nigeria’s Scoring Records at AFCON & the World Cup
Nigeria has built a strong reputation for producing prolific forwards whose goals have shaped performances in major tournaments across Africa and globally.
Top AFCON Scorer of the Modern Era
Rashidi Yekini stands as Nigeria’s undisputed leader with 13 goals across four AFCON appearances from 1988 to 1994.
His predatory instincts delivered consistent threats in crowded boxes and on counters.
Yekini claimed the Golden Boot twice, in 1992 with four strikes during a bronze-medal run and in 1994 with five during Nigeria’s triumphant campaign in Tunisia.
Those tallies powered the Super Eagles to continental glory and established benchmarks for efficiency.
Modern challengers include Odion Ighalo, who netted five goals at Egypt 2019 to secure the top scorer award despite Nigeria’s third-place finish.
Jay-Jay Okocha contributed seven goals, highlighted by four in the 2004 edition where he shared the Golden Boot. Victor Osimhen and others continue pursuing these heights in ongoing cycles.
Nigeria’s World Cup Goal King
Ahmed Musa holds Nigeria’s World Cup scoring record with four goals across the 2014 and 2018 tournaments.
His brace against Argentina in 2014 delivered through pace and composure under pressure. Musa repeated the feat in 2018 with two strikes versus Iceland, injecting momentum into group-stage efforts.
Other contributors feature Rashidi Yekini, who scored Nigeria’s inaugural World Cup goal against Bulgaria in 1994.
Kalu Uche, Daniel Amokachi, and Jay-Jay Okocha each added strikes in various editions. Musa’s tally remains the pinnacle as the Super Eagles aim for deeper runs in future finals.
The Legacy of Nigeria’s Greatest Goal Scorers
Nigeria’s all-time leading scorers have defined the Super Eagles through distinct eras of African and global football.
From Rashidi Yekini’s unmatched 37 strikes that anchored golden generations to Victor Osimhen’s rapid pursuit, these forwards embodied evolving tactical demands and national pride.
Their records span triumphant AFCON campaigns, historic World Cup moments, and countless qualifiers where clinical finishing turned pressure into victory.
Icons like Segun Odegbami and Yakubu Aiyegbeni bridged periods of flair and physical dominance, while emerging talents promise continued potency.
This lineage underscores Nigeria’s reputation for producing relentless attackers capable of deciding major fixtures.
Yekini’s benchmark may fall soon, yet the collective heritage of sharp instincts, aerial mastery, and opportunistic ruthlessness endures as a cornerstone of Super Eagles identity.
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Football stars prepare for Christmas: Erling Haaland sends festive greetings from Norway, Jude Bellingham jets off to the desert and can you guess the mystery midfielder behind the mask in Lapland?
It really is the most wonderful time of the year – and the big day is almost upon us.
Families across Britain will tonight be putting the finishing touches on their decorations, wrapping up the last of their presents and enjoying a Sherry ready for Santa’s annual fleeting visit in just a few hours.
But just how are some of English football’s biggest names spending the night before Christmas?
Manchester United stars past and present have lead the way in giving fans an insight into their festive celebrations.
Casemiro, who’s enjoying Christmas in Manchester, took to his Instagram Stories to share wholesome photos with his family donning matching festive pyjamas.
Meanwhile Marcus Rashford, spending his first festive period away from his hometown Manchester, proved yet again that he’s loving life in Spain with a new post of his own on social media.
Marcus Rashford lead the footballers sharing snaps of themselves celebrating Christmas Eve today
Meanwhile his former Man United team-mate Casemiro slipped into matching pyjamas with his family
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk is seemingly still riding high off the back of the Reds’ recent upturn in form
The Englishman shared snaps of himself cracking a beaming smile while decorating a Christmas tree on Wednesday with the caption: ‘Christmas Eve vibes (star emoji) (tree emoji)’
Also getting into the Christmas spirit is Premier League top scorer Erling Haaland, who has jetted off to his native Norway for the festive period.
The 25-year-old posed for a photo with his girlfriend Isabel Johansen, also a footballer, posted on Instagram earlier today ahead of Man City’s clash with Nottingham Forest on Saturday.
Phil Foden has too taken advantage of the days off afforded to City’s players by Pep Guardiola by flying away to the home of Father Christmas, Lapland.
The Mancunian-born forward posed for scenic photos with his girlfriend Rebecca Cooke under the Northern Lights while also meeting some reindeers.
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk is meanwhile seemingly still riding high off the back of the Reds’ recent upturn in form.
The Dutchman took to his Instagram Stories looking pretty pleased with himself as he cracked a smile next to a Yule tree while wishing supporters a merry Christmas.
And Bukayo Saka wasted no time getting into the festive spirit with the Arsenal talisman taking to Instagram as early as Monday to show off how he’s celebrating.
Also getting into the Christmas spirit is Premier League top scorer Erling Haaland, who has jetted off to his native Norway for the festive period
Phil Foden has too taken advantage of the days off afforded to City’s players by Pep Guardiola by flying away to the home of Father Christmas, Lapland
The Mancunian-born forward posed for scenic photos with his girlfriend Rebecca Cooke
Jude Bellingham has jetted off to Dubai for the festive period for some well-earned rest and recuperation along with his brother, Borussia Dortmund’s Jobe
The Real Madrid star enjoyed a trip to the desert while he soaked up the sun in the Middle East
Bukayo Saka dressed his dog up in Santa pyjamas for a picture posted on his Instagram
Ahead of the Gunners’ Carabao Cup clash with Crystal Palace on Tuesday, Saka shared a snap of his New Balance boots and his dog, adorably dressed up in Santa pyjamas.
Former Spurs and Barcelona frontman Gary Lineker is however already in the kitchen preparing for his Christmas dinner.
But one star celebrating the festive period in a more unorthodox manner is Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham.
The England star has jetted off to Dubai for the festive period for some well-earned rest and recuperation along with his brother, Borussia Dortmund’s Jobe.
Jude took to Instagram to share photos from his Middle Eastern getaway on Wednesday, showing him soaking in the sun, enjoying a trip to the desert and even riding a camel.
The Bellingham brothers also posed for family photo together donning matching white T-shirts and haircuts ahead of Christmas Day.
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Football stars prepare for Christmas: Erling Haaland sends festive greetings from Norway, Jude Bellingham jets off to the desert and can you guess the mystery midfielder behind the mask in Lapland?
ABS FC have embarked on a two-week mid-season break following the conclusion of the first stanza of the Nigeria National League (NNL) 2025/2026 season.
The players and officials will resume training on January 13, 2026, for the continuation of the league season.
ABS FC recorded three wins and four defeats in seven matches.
The Ilorin-based side occupy seventh position on the Conference C league table with nine points.
ABS FC reassured supporters of its unwavering commitment to ensuring the club’s set objectives are achieved.
They will take on Mighty Jets in their game of the second stanza in Ilorin.
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Four-time Premier League winner at Man United takes swipe at lack of discipline in Ruben Amorim’s regime after Kobbie Mainoo incident and insubordination from youngsters
Former Manchester United star Nani claims the disciplinary issues at the club under Ruben Amorim would never have happened when Sir Alex Ferguson was in charge at Old Trafford.
Amorim offloaded Alejandro Garnacho to Chelsea for £40million after the Argentina international and his brother Roberto publicly criticised him.
Last week, Amorim took aim at United’s young players over a sense of entitlement after pictures emerged on social media of Kobbie Mainoo’s half-brother Jordan Mainoo-Hames, Chido Obi and Harry Amass having a dig at him.
Nani insists that Ferguson, who was fiercely opposed to social media, would never have put up with such insubordination.
‘No way, not a chance,’ said the ex-Portugal winger who made 230 appearances for the Reds. ‘If someone needed it, he would put a player to one side for a game, and usually they would learn straight away. If you were in trouble for any kind of bad behaviour, you would only play again when you changed.
‘You need to accept the rules and then you need to follow the rules. For us in that time, that was the key. Nobody was bigger than the club. No player, not Ronaldo, not Rooney, not Giggs, nobody. If you’re behaviour wasn’t good enough, you were punished.
Ruben Amorim last week criticised a sense of entitlement from Man United’s young players
His comments came after Kobbie Mainoo’s half-brother Jordan Mainoo-Hames stoked tensions by wearing a ‘Free Kobbie Mainoo’ T-shirt during Man United’s draw with Bournemouth
Youngsters Harry Amass (left) and Chido Obi (right) sent subtle responses to Amorim’s comments, sparking the boss’ ‘entitlement’ remark
‘It actually happened to me during one of my first weeks. I played one fantastic game and then I went several weeks without playing. I was complaining, talking with Cristiano, saying “hey, I don’t know why I’m not playing”. I knew there was something behind the scenes they wanted me to fix, and then when I found out what it was, I addressed it, worked hard. These players need something similar; discipline and rules.’
Speaking via online casino experts casino.co.uk, Nani also believes that the senior players in Ferguson’s dressing-room would also have stepped in.
‘Yes, a conversation would take place inside the dressing-room because I think all of the team was mature enough. We had very responsible players like Rio, Gary Neville, Giggs; the older players would step in and they would fix it.
‘It would usually be the small things, but sometimes when the player was not giving his maximum during the training sessions or in games, some of those players I just mentioned would be calling them and say, “hey, come on man, you need to do better”. It was a good mind-set and mentality. It all fed down from the manager.
‘I think the first thing is the mind-set in the squad, because when you have the right mind-set any other things can work.’
Despite the problems Amorim has faced during his first 13 months in charge, Nani is convinced his Portuguese compatriot is the right man for the job.
‘I’ve said this before. He is young, he has the hunger and always want to do better,’ added the 39-year-old who retired from playing a year ago.
‘He’s got a huge future in front of him and has shown already that he is a good coach. He has his ideas and sticks to them. He just needs to continue to learn because the Premier League is different than other leagues.
Former Man United star Nani has claimed Sir Alex Ferguson would not have put up with such insubordination
Nani is backing Amorim to succeed at Man United and praised the impact of signings Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo
‘It’s tougher than any other league, especially for people going into it for the first time. We’ve already seen a big improvement from the last season to this season, and I believe the next season we’ll see another jump forward.’
Nani is impressed by some of the signings Amorim has made, in particular Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha who arrived from Brentford and Wolves in the summer.
‘I think they are two players who made the difference since they came,’ he said. ‘They’ve been showing good signs, and they’ve improved. They’ve been getting comfortable with the team, and taking responsibility.
‘Both players are making differences in games and scoring goals. I also like that they fight for the team on the field. These are the type of players we want in the club.
‘The coach is building a strong team, which takes time, but we can see a very beautiful future with this, with these two players at the front of it.’
Burkina Faso’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign burst into life in Casablanca earlier today, December 24, as the Stallions came from behind astonishingly to secure a dramatic late victory over Equatorial Guinea.
Brama Traoré’s side had arrived at the tournament in a confident mood after a strong run of results and, ranked 35 places above their opponents, were widely expected to impose themselves.
The early stages suggested just that. Bertrand Traoré and Issoufou Dayo both went close as Burkina Faso pressed forward, but Juan Michá’s Equatorial Guinea side dug in bravely.
Clear chances were rare, with Luís Asué and José Machín wasting long-range efforts for the National Thunder, while Dango Ouattara was denied by a superb sliding challenge from Pablo Ganet when space opened up invitingly down the left. The lack of cutting edge was reflected at the interval, with neither team registering a shot on target.
The match turned shortly after the restart when VAR intervened to upgrade Basilio Ndong’s booking to a straight red card for a studs-up challenge on Bertrand Traoré’s right ankle.
10-man Equatorial Guinea retreated further, prompting Michá to introduce Charles Ondo for Asué in a bid to hold firm. Burkina Faso pushed harder, with Ouattara testing Jesús Owono and Pierre Landry Kaboré heading wide, but the breakthrough continued to elude them.
That sense of frustration deepened when substitute Lassina Traoré thought he had finally scored, only for a lengthy VAR check to rule the goal out for offside. Against the run of play, Equatorial Guinea then stunned the favourites in the 85th minute as Marvin Anieboh rose highest to power home a header from Carlos Akapo’s corner.
What followed was a breathtaking finale. Georgi Minoungou dragged Burkina Faso level deep into stoppage time with a crisp finish, before Edmond Tapsoba completed the turnaround in the 98th minute, heading in from close range to spark wild celebrations among the Stallions’ players and supporters.
Earlier in Group E, the Algeria national football team laid down an emphatic marker with a dominant 3-0 victory over the Sudan national football team at the Moulay Hassan Stadium in Rabat. With expectations high following a mixed build-up to the tournament, Algeria wasted no time in asserting control.
The breakthrough arrived almost immediately. Just two minutes in, Riyad Mahrez drifted into space on the edge of the area before steering home a composed finish to give Sudan an early problem to solve.
The Desert Foxes monopolised possession thereafter, patiently probing while Sudan struggled to escape their own half.
Sudan’s task became significantly harder shortly before the interval when Salaheldin Adel was shown a second yellow card for a rash challenge, leaving his side down to 10 men.
Algeria continued to dominate after the restart and were rewarded on the hour, Mahrez striking again with a crisp effort after clever build-up play involving Mohamed Amoura.
With the points already within reach, Algeria maintained their intensity rather than settling. Substitute Ibrahim Maza added the gloss in the 85th minute, arriving late in the box to make it 3-0 and put the contest beyond doubt. The result sent Algeria top of the group after the opening round.
Eric Chelle, head coach of Super Eagles, has addressed Victor Osimhen’s reaction after substituting the Galatasaray attacker during Nigeria’s 2-1 win over Tanzania on Tuesday.
Chelle made the change in the 86th minute of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, AFCON, opener which visibly affected Osimhen and led to questions during the post-match press conference.
Speaking on the matter, Chelle disclosed that he had already talked with the former Napoli striker.
“We talked and it will stay between him and me,” Chelle said.
“If you want more information, you’ve to tell Osimhen to ask me,” he insisted.
Meanwhile, Semi Ajayi and Ademola Lookman scored the goals for Chelle’s side against the Taifa Stars.
Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has hosted three victorious Super Falcons of Abia origin who helped Nigeria lift the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) trophy in Morocco, defeating the host nation in Rabat to secure a record 10th title.
The players hosted include Miracle Useni Ofem of the state-owned Abia Angels, Christy Ucheibe (represented by her father) of Portugal’s Benfica FC, and Esther Okoronkwo of AFC Toronto, Canada.
Governor Otti congratulated the players, expressing pride in their achievement and the honour they brought to Abia State and Nigeria.
“I just want to thank you for bringing honour and pride to this State and Nation. We are very happy that you emerged as champions. Of course, Abia State is a State of champions,” he said.
The Governor explained that the visit had been planned earlier but could not take place due to the players’ tight schedules. He emphasized that his administration celebrates excellence to inspire others.
“We like to celebrate people who have done well so that others would emulate them and even want to do better than them. As you perform better, be assured that we are also going to celebrate you,” Gov. Otti added.
A special reward package for the victorious Falcons will be delivered through the Honourable Commissioner for Sports and Youth Development, Sir Nwaobilor Ananaba, who also thanked Governor Otti for his continuous support of sports and youth development in the state.
In his remarks, the Chairman of Abia Angels, Mr. Johnson Nwosu, praised the Governor’s backing, noting that the team has evolved from being a player-supply club to one of Nigeria’s elite teams. “If you cannot perform under this administration, go and look for something else; something is wrong. The name of the State is now a visa for the players,” he stated.
Speaking on behalf of the players, Miracle Useni expressed gratitude to Governor Otti, saying, “Being received by His Excellency is a big honour and a privilege for me. I would say, thank you to His Excellency and thank you to Abia State as a whole.”
The Governor was joined by the acting National Secretary of the Labour Party, Sen. Darlington Nwokocha, Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Kenneth Kalu, Chief of Staff Pastor Caleb Ajagba, and other commissioners and aides.
St. Saviour’s School Ikoyi Endowment Fund Hosts 7th Lagos Kids Mini Marathon at Orange Island
The St. Saviour’s School Ikoyi Endowment Fund successfully hosted the 7th edition of the Lagos Kids Mini Marathon on Saturday, December 6, at Orange Island, celebrating children’s athleticism, healthy competition, and community spirit.
The event attracted pupils, parents, partner schools, sponsors, and supporters, with young runners competing across age categories. A major highlight was the inclusion of children with special needs for the first time, as pupils from Modupe Cole School joined the race. Access Bank Fifth Chukker School, Kaduna, emerged strongly, winning 8 of the 12 medals on offer.
Supported by CardinalStone, Alafia Foundation, Lagos State Government, Zenith Sport, Kids Future Hub, and Zaqonomic, the marathon reinforced the school’s commitment to teamwork, discipline, and youth development through sports. Organisers and school leaders praised the seamless execution and vibrant turnout, as all participants were celebrated with medals, certificates, and recognition prizes.
The Endowment Fund reaffirmed its dedication to growing the Lagos Kids Mini Marathon as an inclusive and impactful children’s sporting event, with expectations of an even bigger edition next year.
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Travis Kelce reveals the best gift he ever bought Taylor Swift as Chiefs star prepares for Christmas Day game
Kansas City Chiefs star Travis Kelce proved himself to be one serious gift giver and revealed the best thing he’s given to his now-fiancée, Taylor Swift.
The holidays come at a special time for Kelce after a year full of joyful moments – including his engagement to the ‘You Belong With Me’ songstress.
On the Christmas Eve episode of the ‘New Heights’ podcast that he co-hosts with his brother Jason Kelce, Travis revealed the best present he’s given to his better half.
‘I will say one of Tay’s favorite gifts that I got her was the bread slicer,’ Travis revealed to Jason and his wife Kylie.
Travis revealed that Swift loves to make bread at home: ‘[I got it] because she’s been throwing together so much f***ing sourdough.’
Kelce’s fondness for the baked goods shone through. ‘Gosh, they’re the best gut healers. I love you, Tay.’
Travis Kelce revealed he bought a bread slicer for his now-fiancée, Taylor Swift
Swift opened up about her love for baking bread on an episode of New Heights this year
Kelce is preparing for what may end up being his final regular season home game
Swift has previously shared her love for baking on the ‘New Heights’ episode where she revealed the name and release date for her latest album, ‘The Life of a Showgirl’.
The ‘Cruel Summer’ singer revealed that she’d been working on special flavors for Jason and Kylie’s daughters: ‘There’s a blueberry lemon, a cinnamon swirl, cinnamon raisin, and this one I’ve been workshopping for the girls because they love everything rainbow: Funfetti sourdough,’ she said.
Swift continued, joking, ‘The sourdough’s taken over my life in a huge way. I’m really talking about bread 60 percent of the time now.’
In that same episode, Kelce revealed that he hasn’t gotten into a fight with Swift. After Kylie and Jason poked fun at him, Travis revealed ‘Me and Tay, we definitely don’t fight.’
This week could be a very emotional one for Kelce as he plays his final regular season game of the 2025 campaign at Arrowhead Stadium.
It could be his last home game ever, as rumors about his potential retirement continue to swirl as the Chiefs have already been eliminated from the playoffs.
Head coach Andy Reid admitted that he was unsure whether it would be Kelce’s final game at Arrowhead but still took time to heap praise on the ‘phenomenal’ tight end.
Speaking to reporters, Reid said: ‘I don’t know if it is or not. I haven’t talked to him, but his numbers and personality speak for themselves. Phenomenal person.’
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Travis Kelce reveals the best gift he ever bought Taylor Swift as Chiefs star prepares for Christmas Day game
Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim has admitted that replacing Bruno Fernandes will be a near-impossible task as the captain faces up to a month on the sidelines with a hamstring injury.
“It is impossible to replace Bruno,” Amorim told reporters. “I said that this morning to the team. We need to take the good thing, if there is a good thing on that, a lot of people need to step up.” Fernandes was forced off during Sunday’s 2-1 defeat at Aston Villa, ruling him out of Friday’s home match against Newcastle.
Amorim emphasised Fernandes’ importance beyond his creative contributions. “It is not just the creation,” he said.
“At every set-piece, he is the guy who is organising the team. He understands every position on the field, and he pays attention to every detail. When you have a substitution, he is always the guy telling the other guys where they should be.”
While Amorim did not give an exact timeline for Fernandes’ return, sources indicate the midfielder could be back for the Manchester derby against City on 17 January, meaning he would miss five matches.
With several key players away at the Africa Cup of Nations and others sidelined by injury, Amorim said senior players such as Lisandro Martinez and Luke Shaw will need to step up, while academy talents like Jack Fletcher and Shea Lacey could see more action.
Despite the challenges, Amorim remained confident. “I am confident we can win any game,” he said. “Of course, we have some problems, but even without many players at the moment in time, I believe in the team and trust in my players. If we are really focused, we can win.”
Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has disclosed that the team’s ‘big name’ players are not happy when they sit on the bench.
Chelle spoke while explaining his decision to take off winger Samuel Chukwueze during Nigeria’s 2–1 victory over Tanzania in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
Commenting on Chukwueze’s clear frustration upon leaving the field, Chelle noted that the substitution was a tactical decision.
“Yes, of course, we’ve in this team a lot of big names. They are competitors; they aren’t happy when they go to the bench,” Chelle said at his post-match interview.
“My job is to make choices, and we’re playing a 4-4-2 diamond, and at this moment I feel we’ve to protect the wing.”
Chelle’s men will take on Tunisia in their upcoming AFCON match on Saturday night.
Samuel Chukwueze has admitted that he was not given enough time to show what he can do on the pitch at AC Milan.
The Nigeria international joined Premier League club, Fulham on a season-long loan from AC Milan in the summer.
Chukwueze, who linked up with Milan from Spanish club, Villarreal three years ago failed to make much impact at the San Siro before he was loaned out by the club.
The 26-year-old has made a big impression since arriving Fulham, scoring twice and providing four assists in nine league appearances.
Chukwueze On Milan Experience
Chukwueze reflected on his time in Italy, and claimed English football suits him better.
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“I don’t think I was given the time or the opportunities I needed,” he was quoted by Milanista.
“But that’s football. I just have to keep working. Maybe one day I’ll return to Serie A, or La Liga, or stay in the Premier League. English football probably suits my style better than Italian tactics.”
Love For Milan
Chukwueze, who is still under contract with AC Milan however claimed his connection with the Rossoneri has not been severed.
“I miss Milan,” Chukwueze admitted.
“It’s my second home. My family are still there, so of course I miss the city. They are doing well and I wish them all the best, I’m still a Milan player, after all, because I’m only on loan.”
By Adeboye Amosu
SPORT
Darts star Callan Rydz shares heartbreaking news after emotional underdog victory at Ally Pally
Darts star Callan Rydz has emotionally revealed his grandad has died, just hours after his victory at the World Darts Championships.
Rydz had earned a stunning victory over world No.22 Daryl Gurney at Alexandra Palace, booking his place in the third round of the tournament.
The 27-year-old had been emotional following the victory when speaking about his grandad’s illness.
Rydz has now announced on social media that his grandad has passed away.
‘There’s not enough words to say,’ Rydz wrote while sharing a selfie of him and his grandad.
‘I’ll promise to make you and grandma proud up there. I love you.’
Darts star Callan Rydz has revealed the death of his grandfather in a post on social media
Rydz made the announcement hours after his shock win at the PDC World Championships
An emotional Rydz had been comforted by Daryl Gurney following their second round match
Rydz also shared a post of his grandad watching him play at the World Championships from hospital, prior to his passing.
The darts star had been emotional on stage following his victory over Gurney, who he revealed had been aware of his grandad’s illness and had offered his support.
‘Daryl has been one of the only lads who knows what has been going on back home with my grandad,’ Rydz told Sky Sports.
‘He has been messaging me, asking if I’m okay. I am getting emotional thinking about it. I don’t know what to say.
‘My head is all over the place but Ally Pally is the best place to play.’
Rydz had also been emotional at last year’s World Championships, with the event taking place shortly after his grandma had passed away.
Speaking to reporters after his second round win over Gurney on Tuesday, Rydz explained how his grandparents had been crucial to him taking up darts.
Rydz shared a photo of his grandfather watching his match at the World Championships
The darts star shared a tribute to his grandfather and stated ‘everything is for you big man’
Rydz admitted that he was ‘struggling’ while playing at the World Championships and suggested he may consider quitting in the near future.
‘I wear my heart on my sleeve, I’m struggling,’ Rydz said.
‘It’s hard when you have stuff going on back home. I came here to try and forget about it but it’s hard. I play for my family.
‘I’ve got a job to do and, thankfully, I got through. I have too much stuff going on back home. I hear the crowd sing my name and I smile. But I wish I was home.
‘We are preparing for this to be the last Christmas. I will go home now, see how the big man is. Listen once he goes, I will probably consider packing in, probably. But I don’t know. I have a decision if I want to keep doing it.
‘I play for my family. My grandma, granddad, my mum, they got us into darts. Everything I do is for them.’
Rydz shared a message thanking fans for their support, writing: ‘Can I just say to everyone that messaged I have seen them and I appreciate every single message.
‘Thank you for the support, yous don’t understand how much it means to me. I wish everyone a great Xmas and will see yous back after the break.’
The 27-year-old is making his seventh appearance at the World Championships.
Rydz has made it to the quarter-finals on the two occasions he has got past the second round, reaching the last eight in 2022 and 2025.
He is due to face Northern Ireland’s Josh Rock in the third round, with the match scheduled to take place on December 29.
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Darts star Callan Rydz shares heartbreaking news after emotional underdog victory at Ally Pally
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has showered praise on President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for keeping faith with the Super Eagles by fulfilling pledges made after their runner-up finish at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The commitments, which covered houses, national honours and plots of land for players and officials, were formally concluded at a ceremony where title documents, certificates of national honours and confirmations of land allocations were handed over.
Among those present were the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Mallam Shehu Dikko, the NFF President Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, a representative of the Presidency, Mrs Nathan-Mash, Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Sports Senator Abdul Ningi, Chairman of the House Committee on Sports Hon Kabiru Amadu, NFF General Secretary Dr Mohammed Sanusi, Malam Saleh Ahmadu and officials of the Nigeria Embassy in Morocco.
Gusau described the gesture as a major boost for the Super Eagles, linking it directly to Nigeria’s 2-1 win over Tanzania in their opening match of the 35th AFCON finals in Morocco on Tuesday.
“We cannot thank His Excellency, Mr President, enough for the fulfilment of the promises of national honours and houses for the players and officials. We also thank the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Mallam Shehu Dikko, the Director General of the NSC, as well as members of the Federal Executive Council for their efforts in this regard,” the NFF president said.
“The presentation of the title documents and certificates was a positive development that has lifted the spirit of players and officials and we expect even better performances in subsequent matches. The team has picked the first three points, which is important, but we must equally be at our best against Tunisia so that we can pick the Round of 16 ticket before the last round of matches in the group.”
On the pitch, the Super Eagles delivered a spirited display at the Complexe Sportif de Fès. Defender Semi Ajayi opened the scoring with a towering header. Ademola Lookman added a second to seal the win.
The victory has placed Nigeria in a strong position as they prepare for their next group match against Tunisia on Saturday, December 27.