by Emmanuel Atanga | Dec 22, 2024 | Africa, Europe, International, Nigeria, Soccer
Bright Osayi-Samuel, the Super Eagles defender currently plying his trade at Fenerbahce, has fueled speculation of a Premier League move after being seen in the stands during Arsenal’s 5-1 win over Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park. The 26-year-old has made a significant impact at Fenerbahce since his arrival in 2017 from QPR, but with just six months remaining on his contract, talks of a potential exit have been heating up.
While Osayi-Samuel has reportedly declined to extend his contract with the Turkish side, his recent appearance at the Crystal Palace game has raised eyebrows, sparking rumors of a possible transfer to the London-based club. Fulham and Crystal Palace have both been linked with the defender in recent months, with the latter perhaps seen as the more likely destination due to Osayi-Samuel’s ties to the capital.
Despite the mounting speculation, a January move seems unlikely, as Crystal Palace is reportedly keen to wait until the summer, when they would be able to secure the Nigerian’s services without a transfer fee. Could this be the beginning of Osayi-Samuel’s Premier League journey?
by Emmanuel Atanga | Dec 22, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Ghana, Nigeria, Soccer
In an unforgettable final, Ghana’s Black Maidens overcame Nigeria’s Super Flamingos in a dramatic penalty shootout to win the inaugural WAFU Zone B U-17 Girls Cup.
The Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence in Prampram was the setting for an electrifying final as Ghana’s Black Maidens faced Nigeria’s Super Flamingos in the first-ever WAFU Zone B U-17 Girls Cup. From the opening whistle, both teams brought high intensity, with the game quickly shifting into end-to-end action.
Ghana made the first move in the 13th minute, capitalizing on an early corner. Rising star Getrude Amoafoa, representing Kumasi Sports Academy, scored to give Ghana a 1-0 lead. Just five minutes later, Priscilla Mensah of Sissamba Ladies doubled the lead to 2-0, sending the home fans into jubilation.
Despite the early setbacks, Nigeria refused to relent. The Super Flamingos came out stronger in the second half, determined to level the score. In the 53rd minute, Precious Chiemerie Oscar broke through Ghana’s defense to reduce the deficit to 2-1.
As the match neared its conclusion, Nigeria’s pressure paid off in the 78th minute when Chidera Harmony Chidi slotted in an equalizer, bringing the score to 2-2 and sending the game into extra time. With neither side able to find a winner during extra time, the match went to penalties.
In a nerve-wracking shootout, Ghana held their composure to win 5-4, securing the title in front of their home crowd. Despite the heartbreak, Nigeria showed great sportsmanship throughout the tournament, making it a thrilling spectacle for all involved.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Dec 22, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Ghana, Nigeria, Soccer
The home-based Super Eagles secure a valuable draw in Accra, setting up an exciting return leg in Uyo next week.
Nigeria’s home-based Super Eagles battled to a hard-earned 0-0 draw against Ghana’s Black Galaxies in the first leg of their 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifier on Sunday at the Accra Sports Stadium. Under the guidance of coach Daniel Ogunmodede, the CHAN Eagles showed solid defensive organization, tireless midfield play, and a few unlucky moments in attack that kept the match level.
Despite Ghana’s dominance in possession and vibrant wing play, they struggled to break down Nigeria’s defense. Whenever the Black Galaxies managed to get into dangerous positions, goalkeeper Ozoemena Ani and captain Nduka Junior were quick to deny them, keeping the scoreline intact.
Nigeria had their chances too, with Adamu Abubakar coming close to giving his side the lead, only for his powerful shot to ricochet off the post. The Super Eagles’ defense remained resolute, frustrating Ghana’s attacks throughout the match.
After the game, Coach Ogunmodede was pleased with his team’s performance and remained optimistic about the return leg. “We knew Ghana would be tough, but we believed in our ability to get a positive result. We showed bravery, which is what Nigeria is known for. In the second leg, we will go for the win,” he said.
The second leg of the qualifier will take place on Saturday, December 28, at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo. A victory of any kind will see Nigeria advance to the 2025 CHAN tournament, co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Dec 22, 2024 | Africa, Europe, International, Nigeria, Soccer
Once a team battling to survive in the Premier League, Nottingham Forest has become a serious top-four contender this season, drawing comparisons to Leicester City’s legendary 2016 title-winning campaign.
A little over a year ago, Nottingham Forest was staring down the barrel of relegation. Today, under the leadership of Nuno Espirito Santo, they’ve risen to 4th in the Premier League table, just two points shy of Arsenal. With a 2-0 victory over Brentford at the Gtech Community Stadium—courtesy of goals from Ola Aina and Anthony Elanga—Forest has now recorded three consecutive wins, a feat they’ve achieved twice this season.
Former Barcelona and England striker Gary Lineker is among those marveling at Forest’s transformation. Speaking on BBC’s Match of the Day, Lineker drew parallels between Forest’s style and Leicester City’s fairy tale run to the Premier League title in 2016 under Claudio Ranieri.
“I see similarities with the way Leicester won the league,” Lineker commented. “I’m not saying Forest will win the league, but the style is comparable.”
The turnaround under Nuno Espirito Santo has been remarkable. Forest now boasts one of the league’s most disciplined and efficient styles of play, anchored by a strong spine in the team and a knack for turning defense into attack with lightning speed.
Former Everton midfielder Ashley Williams also heaped praise on the Reds. “They’re so comfortable without the ball,” he said. “When they win it back, it’s all about quick, purposeful transitions. They don’t mess around with possession; they create chances almost every time they attack.”
Forest’s current tally of nine Premier League wins in just 17 games equals their entire total from last season, underscoring their transformation under Nuno’s stewardship. With players like Taiwo Awoniyi and Ola Aina shining, fans are beginning to dream of a historic season for the Reds.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Dec 22, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Ghana, Nigeria, Soccer
The Accra Sports Stadium was buzzing with anticipation on Sunday evening as Ghana’s Black Galaxies hosted Nigeria’s Super Eagles in the first leg of the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifiers. Among the enthusiastic crowd was Ghanaian football legend Abedi Pele, watching from the stands as the two West African powerhouses battled to a 0-0 draw.
Tactical Decisions and a Cagey Start
Super Eagles coach Daniel Ogunmodede opted for a 4-3-3 formation, making some notable changes to his starting XI. Ozoemena Ani was chosen ahead of Kayode Bankole in goal, while veteran midfielder Rabiu Ali was left out. Sodiq Ismail earned a starting spot in midfield.
The first half was a tense affair, with both teams struggling to create clear-cut chances. The Super Eagles’ disciplined defensive shape ensured that Ani had little to do in the opening 45 minutes, despite the Black Galaxies enjoying vocal support from their home fans.
Abubakar Adamu was one of Nigeria’s bright sparks, troubling Ghana’s right-back and winning a dangerous free-kick, though it was ultimately wasted by Imo Obot.
Missed Chances in the Second Half
Four minutes before the hour mark, Ghana came close to breaking the deadlock when a long-range effort narrowly missed the target. Moments later, Ani made a crucial save to keep the Black Galaxies at bay.
As the game wore on, Ogunmodede made changes, bringing on Emmanuel Ogbole for the quiet Sikiru Alimi. Ogbole nearly made an immediate impact, meeting a cross with a header that sailed just over the crossbar.
Despite the substitutions and efforts from both sides, neither team could find a breakthrough. The match ended in a stalemate, leaving everything to play for in the second leg.
Decisive Second Leg
The tie now shifts to the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, Nigeria, where the second leg is scheduled for December 29, 2024. With a spot at the CHAN finals on the line, both teams will be eager to deliver a decisive performance.
