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AFCON 2025: Simon confident Super Eagles will overcome Tunisia 

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AFCON 2025: Simon confident Super Eagles will overcome Tunisia 


Moses Simon has said the Super Eagles will fight to secure maximum points from their next game against Tunisia at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

Nigeria will face the Carthage Eagles at the Complexe de Fès on Saturday.

The two former champions started their campaign in Morocco on winning notes.

The Super Eagles defeated the Taifa Stars of Tanzania 2-1, while Tunisia overpowered  Uganda 3-1.

A win against Tunisia will see the Super Eagles earn a place in the Round of 16.

Simon said that is their immediate target.

“We want the three points against Tunisia, everybody wants to win and we want to be there,” the Paris FC star told reporters.



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Darts star Callan Rydz shares heartbreaking news after emotional underdog victory at Ally Pally

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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

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

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

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

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'

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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NFF Applauds President Tinubu For Honouring Promises To Super Eagles Players, Officials

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NFF Applauds President Tinubu For Honouring Promises To Super Eagles Players, Officials


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.



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AFCON: Fisayo Dele-Bashiru reveals mistake Super Eagles made against Tanzania

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AFCON: Fisayo Dele-Bashiru reveals mistake Super Eagles made against Tanzania


Super Eagles midfielder, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, has revealed the mistake Eric Chelle’s men made against Tanzania on Tuesday.

Dele-Bashiru came off the bench as Nigeria defeated the Taifa Stars 2-1 in the 2025 Africa Cup Nations, AFCON, tie at the Fez Stadium in Morocco.

However, according to the Lazio star, the Super Eagles made a mistake by conceding a goal due to a defensive lapse.

Charles M’Mombwa scored for Tanzania, while Semi Ajayi and Ademola Lookman scored for Nigeria.

Speaking at his post-match interview after the game, Dele-Bashiru said, “We played well against Tanzania. For the goal we conceded, it was a lapse of concentration, but we created a lot of chances today.

“I think in another game we finish those chances, and the game would have been dead earlier on.

“We will analyze what we didn’t do well, and then from there we will analyze Tunisia.”



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AFCON 2025: Burkina Faso Snatch Dramatic Stoppage-Time Win Over Equatorial Guinea

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AFCON 2025: Burkina Faso Snatch Dramatic Stoppage-Time Win Over Equatorial Guinea


Mr Chef AFCON Match

Burkina Faso rallied to beat Burkina Faso in a thrilling Group E contest at the Mohammed V Stadium in Casablanca on Wednesday.

The Stallions scored two late goals against their 10-man opponents, who put up a resolute display in the contest.

The two teams failed to carve any real chance in the first half

Equatorial Guinea were reduced to 10-men five minutes after the break.

Basilo Ndung was shown a straight red card for a dangerous challenge.

Burkina Faso sought to capitalise on their numerical advantage and believed they had taken the lead in the 71st minute when Lassina Traoré found the net. However, after a VAR review, the goal was ruled out.

Equatorial Guinea took a shock through Marvin Aniebo in the 85th minute.

Substitute György Menongo equalised for Burkina Faso in the fifth minute of added time.

In the eighth minute of stoppage time, Edmond Tapsoba powered home the winner, completing an extraordinary turnaround and sending Burkina Faso’s players and supporters into raptures.

The result sends Burkina Faso to the top of the group with three points, while Equatorial Guinea remain bottom ahead of the later clash between Algeria and Sudan.



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Martha Stewart becomes latest global celebrity to become co-owner of Swansea City – joining Snoop Dogg and Luca Modric

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Martha Stewart becomes latest global celebrity to become co-owner of Swansea City – joining Snoop Dogg and Luca Modric


Martha Stewart is the latest major celebrity to become co-owner of Swansea City – joining Snoop Dogg and Croatian football legend Luca Modric.

The American billionaire, who is understood to be close friends with superstar Snoop, is now a minority owner of the South Wales football club.

The 84-year-old attended the Swans’ 2-1 triumph over Wrexham last Friday, having been invited to the game as a club guest. 

Stewart, who became the US’s first self-made female billionaire by building a home, cooking and entertaining empire, was pictured grinning as she watched the match last week. 

The owners of Swansea City previously discussed wanting to raise the club’s profile in a bid to increase revenue and invest more money in the team. 

The Swans appear to be following in the footsteps of Wrexham after its huge success since being taken over by Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney. 

Despite Stewart joining as another investor and minority owner, the club said it was ‘likely’ to have a quiet January transfer window, the BBC first reported. 

A club statement said: ‘Given the high turnover of players in our squad over the 2025 summer window, and Vitor’s track record of developing and improving young players, we do not expect the January window to be a particularly busy one for Swansea City. 

Martha Stewart is pictured watching Swansea City's 2-1 triumph over Wrexham on Friday

Martha Stewart is pictured watching Swansea City’s 2-1 triumph over Wrexham on Friday 

Wrexham's James McClean and Swansea City's Zeidane Inoussa (right) battle for the ball during the Sky Bet Championship match at Swansea stadium on December 19

Wrexham’s James McClean and Swansea City’s Zeidane Inoussa (right) battle for the ball during the Sky Bet Championship match at Swansea stadium on December 19 

Snoop Dogg (right) and Stewart (left) are understood to be very close friends

Snoop Dogg (right) and Stewart (left) are understood to be very close friends 

‘We will, of course, always be looking for ways to strengthen the squad and if we believe those opportunities are available and would represent good deals for the club then we will look to capitalise, but given the size of the squad we have already it’s likely January will be relatively quiet.’ 

Modric became an investor and co-owner of the club in April, while Snoop joined a few months later. 

Last year, Stewart and Snoop were pictured together at the dressage team Grand Prix Special, where the rapper was fully kitted out to take to the saddle if needed.

Snoop was dressed in breeches, a dressage tailcoat and hard hat as he took a trip around the Chateau de Versailles venue. 

‘Snoop The Stallion,’ a fan reacted on X, while another said that ‘Snoop Stallion is really getting on his high horse’. 

Snoop famously commentated on dressage at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics when he referred to German rider Isabell Werth’s mount as a ‘crip-walking horse’.



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Tanzania Coach Gomandi Happy With Team Performance Against Nigeria

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Tanzania Coach Gomandi Happy With Team Performance Against Nigeria


Tanzania head coach Manuel Gomandi has praised his players after their spirited showing against Nigeria, even though the Taifa Stars opened their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign with a 2-1 defeat on Tuesday night.

Naija News reports that the Group C clash, played in Fès, saw Tanzania go toe to toe with one of Africa’s traditional heavyweights and earn plaudits for a performance that defied pre-match expectations. Nigeria claimed their first win of the tournament through goals in each half from Semi Ajayi and Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman.

Speaking to journalists after the match, Gomandi said his team’s approach and attitude would have surprised many observers.

“But when you see the gap, the quality and value of one team compared to the other team…everything was great,” he said.

“I think we surprised so many people because they thought we would come here to pack the bus, which is not my philosophy…”

Tanzania conceded first in the 36th minute when Ajayi nodded home a cross from Alex Iwobi. The East Africans responded positively after the break and were rewarded in the 50th minute when Kokola M’mombwa hauled them back into contention.

However, their hopes of a famous result were dashed just two minutes later as Lookman produced a sublime finish to restore Nigeria’s lead.

Gomandi was quick to commend his players for their resilience and discipline, particularly against a Super Eagles side coached by Eric Chelle.

“The performance of my players was great even though we committed the mistake from the corner where we conceded the first goal,” Gomandi said during his interaction with the media after the game.

Tanzania also caused Nigeria problems at the back on several occasions, defending stoutly and showing a willingness to play on the front foot rather than sit deep.

Attention now turns to a crucial next fixture against regional rivals Uganda, where Tanzania must secure a win to keep their hopes of progressing alive. Uganda head into Saturday’s encounter on the back of a 3-1 defeat to Tunisia in the other Group C match.



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No Pressure –Mbeumo Speaks Ahead Cameroo

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No Pressure –Mbeumo Speaks Ahead Cameroo


Mr Chef AFCON Match

Cameroon forward Bryan Mbeumo has disclosed that he’s not under any form of pressure ahead of the Indomitable Lions’ opening game against Gabon in the ongoing 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

In a chat with Cafonline, the Manchester United star stated that he’s prepared to make a big difference and help the team achieve a positive result.

“It’s a source of pride for all Africans. In my family, we’ve always watched the AFCON, and for them to now see me play in it will be a great honour. It’s a very special competition to take part in.

Read Also:AFCON 2025: Why We Lost To Super Eagles –Tanzania Star, Allarakhia

“For me, there is no pressure. Wherever I have played, I have always wanted to win. Cameroon has a great history at the AFCON with many successes, and we will try to represent the country well.

“Like everyone else, he expects me to make a difference through my voice, my dribbling, and everything I can bring to help the team achieve results. That’s what we are working towards.”



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Eat Smart. Eat Fast. Eat Healthy – Ifgreen Foods Has You Covered!

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Eat Smart. Eat Fast. Eat Healthy – Ifgreen Foods Has You Covered!


In today’s fast-paced lifestyle, eating healthy shouldn’t be stressful or time-consuming. That’s exactly why Ifgreen Foods is redefining how Nigerians enjoy their favourite swallows fast, nutritious, and delicious.

 

Introducing Two Game-Changing Products from Ifgreen Foods

Ifgreen Foods proudly presents two exciting fibre-rich instant swallow products designed for modern, health-conscious consumers:

 

 

 IfgreenVita – Nutrition in Just 3 Minutes

IfgreenVita is a fibre-rich, vitamin A–fortified instant swallow that delivers both health and convenience.

Why you’ll love IfgreenVita:

  • Ready in just 3 minutes
  • Rich in fibre – supports digestion and weight management
  • Vitamin A–fortified for good vision
  • Low carbohydrate, gluten-free, and easy to digest
  • Prepared with boiled water only – no fire, no stress
  • Smooth, light, and perfect for a healthy lifestyle

IfgreenVita is the smart choice for anyone who wants great taste without compromising wellness.

 

IfGreen Foods, Sponsored

 

 Ifgreen Fufu Flour – All the Taste, None of the Stress

Love traditional fufu but hate the stress of pounding? Ifgreen Fufu Flour gives you the authentic African taste you love, without the sweat.

Why Ifgreen Fufu Flour stands out:

  • Ready in just 5 minutes
  • Odourless, smooth, and delicious
  • Retains the original fufu taste Nigerians love
  • A great energy food for maximum performance
  • Contains protein, zero fat, and zero cholesterol

It’s tradition made modern which is perfect for families, busy professionals, and anyone craving authentic African swallows.

 

 

Availability & Quality Assurance

Both IfgreenVita and Ifgreen Fufu Flour are available in 1kg packs and can be found in supermarkets, stores, and open markets nationwide.

For your peace of mind, Ifgreen Foods products are certified by NAFDAC, SON, HALAL, and other relevant regulatory bodies.

 

 

Join the Ifgreen Community

Follow @ifgreenfoods on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and X (Twitter) for updates, tips, and healthy living inspiration.

 

 

Distributors Wanted Nationwide!

Interested distributors should contact 0908-328-8888.

Eat Ifgreen Foods. Eat Healthy. Live Better.

Ifgreen Foods, where nutrition meets convenience.

 



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Michael van Gerwen reignites row with ‘c**p’ Peter Wright as he tells rival to RETIRE in brutal interview after two-time champion’s shock World Darts Championship defeat

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Michael van Gerwen reignites row with ‘c**p’ Peter Wright as he tells rival to RETIRE in brutal interview after two-time champion’s shock World Darts Championship defeat


Michael van Gerwen has reignited his long-running feud with Peter Wright by suggesting the Scotsman should retire after crashing out of the PDC World Darts Championship on Tuesday.

Wright, the 2020 and 2022 world champion, was thrashed 3-0 by 33-year-old qualifier Arno Merk in the second round.

On Tuesday, he turned in his worst-ever performance at Alexandra Palace, averaging just 79.20, hitting only two 180s and managing a 13.33 per cent success rate on the doubles.

Since losing his opening match at the World Championship at the end of 2023, ‘Snakebite’ has endured a largely downward spiral, tumbling down the rankings and almost certainly set to drop outside the top 32 following this year’s tournament. 

Three-time world champion Van Gerwen, who progressed to the third round after defeating William O’Connor, showed little sympathy for his old rival’s struggles.

When asked whether he was surprised by Wright’s display, the 36-year-old Dutchman laughed and said: ‘You want me to answer this? I can answer this really easily.’

Peter Wright, the 2020 and 2022 world champion, was thrashed 3-0 by qualifier Arno Merk

Peter Wright, the 2020 and 2022 world champion, was thrashed 3-0 by qualifier Arno Merk

Michael van Gerwen, 36, rubbed salt in the 55-year-old's wounds: 'I'm not really surprised by his performance because he's been playing c*** lately. I think it's time for him to retire'.

Michael van Gerwen, 36, rubbed salt in the 55-year-old’s wounds: ‘I’m not really surprised by his performance because he’s been playing c*** lately. I think it’s time for him to retire’.

He then added: ‘I’m not really surprised by his performance because he’s been playing c*** lately. I think it’s time for him to retire anyway.’

Van Gerwen and Wright have faced each other in two World Championship finals – the 2014 showdown won by the Dutchman and the 2020 final in which Wright gained revenge to claim his maiden world title. 

The pair had been on course for a tantalising post-Christmas third-round clash this year, but Wright’s early defeat means Van Gerwen will now face Merk instead. 

Van Gerwen’s remarks come just a week after Wright, 55, suggested Van Gerwen’s eyesight may be deteriorating.

Following his first-round win over Noan-Lynn van Leuven, Wright said: ‘I think their (younger players’) eyesight is better than ours. I think that’s about it.

‘Obviously Gary (Anderson) is on the glasses or contacts. I don’t know if Michael is wearing contacts at the moment, but I think MVG’s vision is probably going – but he won’t admit it at the moment.’

When informed of those comments, Van Gerwen responded: ‘There’s nothing wrong with my eyes. Don’t worry. I keep getting compliments.’

Two-time world champion Gary Anderson has urged patience with his compatriot, insisting Wright should be given ‘a bit of time’.

‘We can’t play well all the time,’ Anderson said. ‘People think we’re robots and you’ve just got to play well all the time or a bad couple of games it’s “he’s finished, he’s retiring”.

Van Gerwen and Wright have faced each other in two World Championship finals - the 2014 showdown won by the Dutchman and the 2020 final in which Wright gained revenge

Van Gerwen and Wright have faced each other in two World Championship finals – the 2014 showdown won by the Dutchman and the 2020 final in which Wright gained revenge

‘Just give folk a break, you know. We can’t keep doing that day in and day out. We’ve seen Michael van Gerwen do that for probably the last decade. He has a blip and it’s “that’s it, he’s finished”.’

Meanwhile, former World Championship semi-finalist Wayne Mardle believes Wright should avoid making any rash decisions about his future.

‘It was an awful watch – watching a champion, a legend of our sport, someone who has helped the sport grow, I didn’t enjoy it one bit,’ Mardle told Sky Sports.

‘I don’t know what questions Peter will ask himself – whether it’s like “it’s fine, I will carry on. I love the game”. And I hope that happens. He’s always said “I don’t want to retire, I love it” so I don’t want him to have a knee-jerk reaction because it’s happened at the World Championship.

‘If you play like that elsewhere, it’s OK. You don’t really think about it but when you do it at the World Championship, and I know this because I’ve done it, you end up questioning whether you are good enough to compete ever again.

‘And it’s about competing, about winning. He’s a winner. I hope he’s OK because you will think about that. That sleepless night stuff, I hope he doesn’t make one of these knee-jerk reactions like we have seen from other players.

‘He’s been a classy ambassador for darts – brings that fun but also brings that amazing ability and a touch of class.’



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Yakubu Aiyegbeni Reacts To Super Eagles Win Over Tanzania, Names Standout Players

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Yakubu Aiyegbeni Reacts To Super Eagles Win Over Tanzania, Names Standout Players


Former Nigeria striker Yakubu Aiyegbeni has singled out Alex Iwobi and Samuel Chukwueze for special praise following the Super Eagles’ 2-1 win over Tanzania’s Taifa Stars.

Aiyegbeni said the pair stood head and shoulders above the rest, pointing to their energy and influence as Nigeria edged the visitors in a keenly contested encounter.

Iwobi caught the eye with an all-round display, capping his performance with the assist for Ajayi’s opening goal. The Fulham midfielder dictated the tempo, linked play neatly and stayed involved from first whistle to last, one of his most assured outings in national colours.

Chukwueze also impressed, stretching the Tanzanian defence and coming close to scoring just before the interval. The winger’s night ended in the 59th minute when he made way for Moses Simon, but not before he had left his mark.

Reflecting on the midfield showing, Aiyegbeni highlighted the duo’s creativity and willingness to take responsibility in possession.

“You have in Chukwueze and Alex Iwobi, and so far so good, you know. Better than they try to create chances and they create some chances for Osimhen, and he is just unlucky today, you know, but we still need creativity in midfield,” Aiyegbeni told News Central TV.

Iwobi’s display further proved his importance to the team. The Fulham star, 29, is now Nigeria’s most capped player with 92 appearances and has scored 10 goals for the Super Eagles.

Chukwueze, meanwhile, continues to grow into his role with the national side. The winger has featured 52 times for Nigeria and has found the net on seven occasions.



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AFCON: Super Eagles don’t rely solely on attackers for goals – Semi Ajayi

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AFCON: Super Eagles don’t rely solely on attackers for goals – Semi Ajayi


Following Nigeria’s 2–1 win against Tanzania in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on Tuesday, Super Eagles defender Semi Ajayi insisted that Eric Chelle’s squad does not rely solely on attackers for goals.

Two goals from Ajayi and Ademola Lookman, who plays for Atalanta, secured all three points for the Super Eagles against the Taifa Stars.

Reflecting on the encounter, Ajayi stated in his post-match interview, “We [Super Eagles] had an amazing tournament in Ivory Coast.

“We are using that experience [in Ivory Coast] as our standard [in this 2025 AFCON in Morocco].

“We’re a team that we don’t need to get goals only from the attackers, it is pleasing [for me] to contribute to the success of the team.”



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Why We Lost To Super Eagles – Tanznaia Star Allarakhia

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Why We Lost To Super Eagles – Tanznaia Star Allarakhia


Mr Chef AFCON Match

Tanzania winger Tarryn Allarakhia has said Nigeria’s Super Eagles quality was the difference in Tuesday’s AFCON 2025 Group C opener.

It was not the best of starts for Tanzania as they fell to a 2-1 defeat to the Super Eagles.
Complete Sports AFCON 2025 live coverage from MoroccoComplete Sports AFCON 2025 live coverage from Morocco

Semi Ajayi, who was named Player of the Match, opened the scoring in the 36th minute as he headed home Alex Iwobi’s cross.

But just five minutes into the second half Kokola M’mombwa made it 1-1 as he slotted home a well lofted cross into the box.

But two minutes after the equaliser Ademola Lookman made it 2-1 with a well taken left foot shot.

The win means the Super Eagles have now won their two AFCON meetings with Tanzania (first meeting in 1980 ended 3-1).

Also Read: 2025 AFCON: Premier League Celebrates Iwobi’s Performance In Super Eagles’ Win Vs Tanzania

Also, they have now recorded six wins and have three draws in their nine meetings with the Taifa Stars.

“I think we should take the positives from what we did against Nigeria and like I said previously they are one of the favourites and for us to go out there and give it a good go I think we can take positives from it,” Allarakhia told journalists aftet the match.

“We know that we need to be more organized, Nigeria have got qualities everywhere and that’s what done us with two quality goals. But again we were solid and organized and I feel we did that and we had chances to equalise and also go ahead.”

By James Agberebi in Fes, Morocco



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Eric Chelle Urges Super Eagles To Improve After AFCON Slim Win Over Tanzania

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Eric Chelle Urges Super Eagles To Improve After AFCON Slim Win Over Tanzania


Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has warned that Nigeria must quickly find another level at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), even after opening their campaign with a hard-fought 2-1 win against Tanzania in Fez.

Naija News reports that the Super Eagles marked the start of their Group C journey with victory at the Complexe Sportif de Fès, but it was far from comfortable.

Forty-five years after defeating the Taifa Stars 3-1 in the opening game of the 1980 tournament, the Super Eagles again emerged on top, though only after being stretched for long spells, especially in the second half.

Semi Ajayi set Nigeria on their way in the 36th minute, powering a header into the far corner from an Alex Iwobi cross. It was the defender’s second international goal and the reward for sustained Nigerian pressure before the break.

Tanzania responded shortly after the restart when Charles M’Mombwa punished a lapse in concentration to draw his side level. The setback did not last long, however, as Ademola Lookman restored Nigeria’s lead almost immediately with a fine strike from distance.

From there, Chelle’s men were forced to dig deep. Tanzania pushed forward in search of another equaliser, and Nigeria had to rely on defensive discipline and calm game management to see out the contest and secure all three points.

Despite the win, Chelle made it clear he was not entirely satisfied.

“We have to analyse this win because we did a lot of good things in the first half to create chances to score,” the Franco-Malian coach said. “We had many opportunities, but in the second half, we gave Tanzania the chance to come back into the game. We made two mistakes.”

He added, “Of course, we are happy with the three points, but at the AFCON, the most important thing is to improve with every game. After our analysis, we have to continue to improve.”

Ajayi’s influence went far beyond his goal. The 31-year-old produced a commanding all-round display that earned him the official Man of the Match award from CAF. He dominated his duels, won all of his aerial battles and ground contests, and played a key role in keeping Nigeria organised during late pressure from the Tanzanians.

Semi Ajayi Semi Ajayi

Speaking after the match, Ajayi said, “It is an amazing feeling. It is always special to score for your country, especially in a game like this where it helped us get off to a really good start. I was very pleased.”

He was also quick to stress that the team were already looking ahead to improvements.

“We are aware of the areas where we need to do better, particularly in seeing out games and killing teams off. We will be working very hard on the training pitch to put that right,” he said.

Ajayi described the performance as a reflection of the squad’s collective mindset. He noted, “It shows that we are one team. We cannot rely only on the attackers to score goals. We need contributions from all over the pitch. Defenders and midfielders also have to chip in if we want to do well in the tournament.”

Nigeria, runners-up at the last tournament after losing the final to hosts Ivory Coast, are chasing a fourth continental title, having previously lifted the trophy in 1980, 1994 and 2013. Attention now turns to Saturday’s clash with Tunisia, a test Chelle believes will demand a clear step up.

“Tunisia are a big team,” he said. “We have to improve defensively, and we need more movement both when we have the ball and when we don’t. I congratulate my players for the win, but we still have a lot of work to do.”



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Salah joins  African greats with AFCON scoring streak

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Salah joins  African greats with AFCON scoring streak


Mohamed Salah became the first Egyptian player to score in five consecutive editions of the African Cup of Nations with his late strike in a 2-1 win over Zimbabwe on Monday.

Egypt’s captain, starting his first game after four successive matches on the bench at Liverpool, fired home a left-footed effort in the 91st minute to give the seven-time champions a late victory and Hossam Hassan’s side a comfortable start in Morocco, setting a new record for Egypt.

“Our national team captain Mohamed Salah becomes the first Egyptian player to score in five consecutive editions of the Africa Cup of Nations” the Egyptian FA posted on X.

Liverpool’s talisman has scored in the 2017, 2019, 2021, 2023 and now 2025 editions, matching Ivorian  trio of  Didier Drogba, Abdoulaye Traore and Yaya Toure as well as Tunisian winger Youssef Msakni.

Salah now has the chance to increase his tally with two AFCON tournaments scheduled within the next three years in 2027 and 2028. A goal in each edition would allow the Egypt international to break the record held by Cameroon’s Samuel Eto’o, Zambia’s Kalusha Bwalya and the Ghanaian duo Andre Ayew and Asamoah Gyan.

The 33-year-old has scored eight goals in 20 AFCON games – four fewer than Hassan El-Shazly, Egypt’s all-time top scorer in the tournament and three fewer than his current coach Hassan.

Egypt will face South Africa on Friday, then take on Angola on December 29, as Salah aims to finally lift the Africa Cup after losing the final in 2017 and 2021.



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EPL Hails Iwobi After Super Eagles’ Win Vs Tanzania

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EPL Hails Iwobi After Super Eagles’ Win Vs Tanzania


Mr Chef AFCON Match

The English Premier League has praised Alex Iwobi for his impressive performance in Nigeria’s Super Eagles’ win against Tanzania, in their AFCON 2025 Group C opening match on Tuesday.

Iwobi was in superb form as his side’s two goals scored by Semi Ajayi and Ademola Lookman.
Complete Sports AFCON 2025 live coverage from MoroccoComplete Sports AFCON 2025 live coverage from Morocco
The Fulham man floated in a delightful cross which was headed in by Ajayi to give the Super Eagles a first half lead.

After Kokola M’mombwa equalised for Tanzania, the Super Eagles went back in front few minutes later as Iwobi laid the ball for Lookman, who hit a left foot shot which flew past the keeper.

Commenting on his performance, the Premier League wrote on their X handle:”Alex Iwobi shines for Nigeria 🇳🇬

“The @FulhamFC star assisted both goals as the Super Eagles beat Tanzania 2-1 in their first match of AFCON 2025! ✨.”

Also Read: ‘I Was Really Pleased’ — Ajayi Reflects On Super Eagles’ Win Over Tanzania

Up next for Iwobi and his Super Eagles teammates is a clash with Tunisia on Saturday, December 27 in Fes.

When the Eagles faced Tunisia in the AFCON 2021 round of 16, the North Africans won 1-0, with Iwobi shown a straight red card.

The Tunisians got their campaign off to a very good start after overcoming Uganda 3-1 in Rabat, on Tuesday.

By James Agberebi in Fes, Morocco



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