by Emmanuel Atanga | Nov 20, 2024 | Africa, Soccer
As the Fifa break takes center stage and several teams remain inactive due to their absence from the Carling Knockout, many players have used this time wisely to recover from injuries. With the resumption of league action on November 26, several high-profile stars are expected to return to full fitness, ready to make an impact on the pitch. Let’s look at some of the top players who are likely to be back in action:
Tapelo Xoki (Orlando Pirates) – Recovering from Knee Injury
The 29-year-old centre-back has been sidelined since May after suffering a significant knee injury. However, after being cleared for full training and focusing on agility drills, Xoki has started working his way back into the team. Although he has not appeared in an official match this season, the break has given him ample time to build his fitness, and he is likely to be ready for competitive action once the league resumes.
Bradley Grobler (SuperSport United) – Groin Injury
SuperSport United’s all-time leading scorer, Bradley Grobler, has been out of action since August after a serious groin injury. The 36-year-old striker, however, has been training with his team and was on the verge of making the matchday squad prior to the Fifa break. Grobler’s recovery is progressing well, and he is expected to return to the pitch soon, bolstering SuperSport’s attacking options.
Mduduzi Mdantsane (Kaizer Chiefs) – Broken Jaw
Mduduzi Mdantsane has had a challenging start to the season after a car accident left him with broken jaws in June. Although he missed Chiefs’ pre-season camp and had to undergo a lengthy recovery, Mdantsane was seen playing in the Home of Legends Cup final, even scoring the decisive penalty to help Chiefs win the friendly tournament. With this crucial game under his belt, Mdantsane is poised to make his official season debut after the Fifa break.
Goodman Mosele (Orlando Pirates) – Knee Injury
Pirates midfielder Goodman Mosele has had a frustrating season, having not featured in a single match after sustaining a knee injury during pre-season. After missing the club’s pre-season camp in Spain, Mosele has been undergoing intensive rehabilitation. His recovery has progressed with jogging and weight training, putting him in a strong position to make his return in the coming weeks.
As league football resumes, these key players are expected to add depth and strength to their respective teams, and their recoveries during the Fifa break will be crucial for their club’s success in the months ahead.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Nov 20, 2024 | Africa, Soccer
TS Galaxy’s new signing, Keagan Dolly, is eager to get back on the field after several months without a club, following his departure from Kaizer Chiefs. The 31-year-old midfielder, who had been without a team since June, spoke of his excitement to join the Rockets and the warm reception he received from fans on social media. Dolly expressed gratitude towards TS Galaxy chairman Tim Sukazi for offering him a chance to return to football and is committed to helping the club get back to winning ways.
Dolly, who had considered joining SuperSport United before they opted for Vincent Pule, is excited to work with a squad filled with young talent. He aims to contribute both on and off the field, helping to mentor younger players and score goals to lift the team’s performance. The midfielder emphasized that his primary goal is to enjoy playing football again, while also making his supporters and Sukazi proud of the decision to bring him into the fold.
Chairman Sukazi echoed Dolly’s sentiments, praising the player’s leadership and experience, which he believes will be invaluable to TS Galaxy’s efforts to regain form and success. Dolly’s arrival is seen as a much-needed boost to the youthful squad as they work towards a brighter future.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Nov 20, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Europe, International, Nigeria, Soccer
Emmanuel Ekong, the 22-year-old forward and son of former Super Eagles midfielder Prince Ikpe Ekong, has addressed the rumors linking him with a move to Swedish club Malmö FF ahead of the January transfer window. Despite speculation about his future, Ekong has reaffirmed his commitment to his current club, Empoli, where he has been struggling for consistent playing time.
Ekong made his Serie A debut for Empoli in September 2022, drawing attention after impressive performances with the club’s academy. However, he has found it difficult to break into the first team, leading to loan moves to Perugia and Croatian side Istra 1961, where he thrived, netting three goals and contributing three assists in 22 appearances.
His return to Empoli saw more limited opportunities, as he has only managed 101 minutes of league action this season, all as a substitute. This has led to reports linking him with a potential move to Malmö FF, one of Sweden’s most successful clubs.
While acknowledging Malmö’s status as a “great team,” Ekong expressed his focus on Empoli and his determination to continue working hard. “I am focused here and this is where I have a contract, but I saw it. Malmö is a great team and I have a lot of respect for them, but that’s all I can say,” he told Fotbollskanalen. “My focus is on Empoli, and then we’ll see what happens in the future.”
Although his contract with Empoli runs until 2027, Ekong emphasized that his primary goal is to secure more playing time. “I like to take things day by day. I don’t want to think too far ahead, but I want to play and show my qualities,” he stated.
Ekong, who has yet to score his first league goal for Empoli, remains committed to helping the team achieve success. Despite not being a regular starter, he has managed to score in the Italian Cup this season. “It’s a dream to score, but when I come in or start, I always try to help the team. The most important thing is that Empoli takes three points,” he concluded.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Nov 20, 2024 | Africa, Europe, International, Nigeria, Soccer
Princess Ademiluyi, a talented young striker born to Nigerian parents in Gravesend, England, is on the brink of a significant milestone in her football career. The West Ham United-owned forward, currently on loan at Charlton Athletic, has been called up to represent England’s U19 team in the 2025 UEFA Women’s U-19 Championship qualifiers.
Ademiluyi’s journey began at West Ham United’s youth academy, where she made history as the first player from the club’s Foundation Player Pathway to feature for the senior women’s team and sign a professional contract. Her senior debut came against Brighton & Hove Albion, where she showcased her burgeoning talent.
In search of more playing opportunities, Ademiluyi moved to Charlton Athletic on loan in July 2024. Despite not scoring yet for the Addicks in the FA Women’s Championship, her performances have been impactful enough to catch the eye of England U19 head coach Lauren Smith.
The striker earned her first Young Lionesses call-up in October, delivering an impressive debut at the Algarve Cup by providing two assists in a 3-1 win over the Netherlands. Wearing the iconic number 9 jersey, Ademiluyi played 77 minutes in a performance that highlighted her potential.
Now, the 17-year-old is set to feature in England’s qualifiers against Turkey, Italy, and Poland. If she makes an appearance, she will be provisionally cap-tied to England, sparking conversations about her international future, especially with her eligibility for Nigeria’s Super Falcons.
Ademiluyi’s rapid rise underscores her promise as a forward and places her in the spotlight as a key figure for both club and country at the youth level.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Nov 20, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Nigeria, Soccer
Nigerian women’s football has taken center stage as several players, teams, and coaches earned top nominations for the prestigious 2024 CAF Awards. The announcement highlights the growing influence of Nigerian football on the continent.
Ajibade and Nnadozie Lead POTY Nominations
Super Falcons stars Rasheedat Ajibade and Chiamaka Nnadozie are among the finalists for the CAF Women’s Player of the Year. They are up against top African talents, including South Africa’s Thembi Kgatlana and Jermaine Seoposenwe, Zambia’s Barbra Banda and Racheal Kundananji, as well as nominees from Morocco, Malawi, and Burundi.
In addition, Nnadozie has been shortlisted for the Goalkeeper of the Year award. She will compete alongside her Nigerian teammate Monle Oyono, Cameroon’s Cathy Biya, and other outstanding goalkeepers across the continent.
Okwuchukwu and Sabastine Eye Young POTY
Rising Nigerian stars Chiamaka Okwuchukwu and Flourish Sabastine have earned nominations for the Young Player of the Year. Both players were pivotal during Nigeria’s campaign at the 2024 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup. Sabastine’s decisive goal against Korea Republic and Okwuchukwu’s impactful performances against strong opposition caught the eye of CAF’s panel.
Nigerian Coaches and Teams Dominate Categories
The trio of Nigeria’s Super Falcons, Falconets, and Flamingos have been nominated for National Team of the Year. This recognition underscores their achievements across various competitions, including the FIFA Women’s World Cup and regional tournaments.
Bankole Olowookere (Flamingos) and Christopher Danjuma (Falconets) have also been nominated for Coach of the Year, further validating Nigeria’s coaching prowess at the international level.
Edo Queens Make History
Edo Queens, who impressed at the 2024 CAF Women’s Champions League before falling short in the semifinals, have been shortlisted for Club of the Year. Striker Emem Essien and goalkeeper Monle Oyono are also up for the Interclub Player of the Year, adding to Nigeria’s robust presence in the nominations.
