Full-Time Report:
Malawi delivered a stellar performance, defeating Burkina Faso with a commanding 3-0 scoreline. Goals from Gabadinho Mhango, Richard Mbulu, and Lloyd Aaron secured an emphatic victory for the Flames in a dominant display of football.
Ghana’s hopes of finishing their AFCON qualifiers on a high note took a hit as they conceded an early goal to Niger in the 22nd minute. The decisive moment came from a corner, with Niger’s Bamadassi capitalizing on poor defensive organization from the Ghanaian backline to nod the ball home.
The set-piece highlighted Ghana’s vulnerability, leaving fans and analysts frustrated by the lack of focus during such a critical game. Despite dominating possession and creating chances, the Black Stars struggled to respond effectively, with Niger holding firm after their breakthrough.
Ghana’s defensive frailties have been a recurring issue, and this lapse could raise questions about their readiness for the tournament proper. As the team reflects on the game, there’s no doubt that improving their set-piece defending will be a priority moving forward.
Leon Balogun, a seasoned defender with 46 caps for Nigeria, might be edging closer to an international comeback. Despite being absent from the Super Eagles squad since 2022, Balogun remains a respected figure in Nigerian football and hasn’t officially retired from international duty.
The 36-year-old has been showcasing his quality at Rangers, recently reclaiming a starting spot in their XI alongside John Souttar, following Robin Propper’s struggles. With 11 club appearances under his belt this season, Balogun has proven his fitness and resilience, positioning himself as a reliable option for Nigeria’s defence.
Speaking ahead of Nigeria’s crucial AFCON qualifier against Rwanda, interim coach Austin Eguavoen hinted that Balogun’s return to the national team could be on the cards. “It is possible, you can’t rule it out,” Eguavoen remarked, leaving the door open for the veteran defender’s recall as the team gears up for pivotal AFCON and World Cup qualifiers.
Balogun’s potential return has also been championed by Nigeria captain William Troost-Ekong, who has shared a strong partnership with him in the heart of defence. “Leon is a fantastic player. He helped me a lot, and we had some amazing times together,” Troost-Ekong said. He praised Balogun’s professionalism and ability to overcome challenges at Rangers, adding, “It’s not easy to play under that pressure at 36, but he’s still going strong.”
As Nigeria continues its AFCON campaign, Balogun’s experience and leadership could prove invaluable in the coming fixtures. Fans will be eager to see if the Super Eagles management decides to bring the stalwart defender back into the fold.
Nottingham Forest remain hopeful that Ola Aina will be fit to feature against Arsenal on Saturday, following his early return from international duty with Nigeria.
The right-back has been a standout performer for Forest this season, featuring prominently in Nuno Espírito Santo’s lineup as the team enjoys a remarkable run that has placed them fifth in the Premier League. Aina played the full match in Forest’s 3-1 loss to Nottingham Forest before the international break and logged 83 minutes in Nigeria’s 1-1 draw against Benin in an Africa Cup of Nations qualifier last Thursday.
The draw secured Nigeria’s AFCON qualification with a game to spare, allowing Aina to return to Nottingham for treatment after picking up a minor issue in the match. Discussions between Forest and the Nigerian Football Federation led to an agreement for the player to miss Nigeria’s final qualifier against Rwanda on Monday.
Austin Eguavoen, Nigeria’s interim coach, shed light on the decision:
“Before the match against Benin, Nottingham Forest officials reached out, and I received a message from Nuno requesting Aina’s early release to prepare for Arsenal. Considering we had already secured qualification, maintaining a strong relationship was key, and we agreed to their request.”
Reports suggest that Aina’s substitution was precautionary, possibly due to fatigue. The former Chelsea defender will be assessed this week to determine his availability for the crucial clash at the Emirates.
Forest will face Arsenal at 3 p.m. on Saturday, hoping Aina can bolster their defensive line as they aim to continue their impressive form this season.
Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has firmly denied any plans to retire from international football after the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The 31-year-old defender, who has been a cornerstone of Nigeria’s national team since his debut in 2015, remains committed to representing his country for the foreseeable future, according to reports from Sportsblog247.com.
With over 70 caps and a reputation as one of Nigeria’s most dependable players, Troost-Ekong has cemented his legacy on the international stage. Born in the Netherlands to a Dutch-Nigerian family, he chose to play for Nigeria at the senior level and has since become one of the team’s most iconic figures.
His achievements include a remarkable tally of five goals at AFCON, making him the highest-scoring defender in the tournament’s history. He was also named Player of the Tournament at the 2023 edition, despite Nigeria’s narrow 2–1 loss to Ivory Coast in the final.
Currently plying his trade with Al-Kholood in Saudi Arabia, Troost-Ekong is embracing the later stages of his career but remains unwavering in his commitment to the Super Eagles.
Troost-Ekong on His Future
Speculation about his retirement surfaced after Nigeria secured qualification for the 2025 AFCON with two matches to spare. However, the former Watford and Udinese star addressed the rumors with clarity and determination.
“I am still 31; the next AFCON is just 12 months away, and there’s still the 2026 World Cup tournament to look forward to,” Troost-Ekong said. “After that, we will see! It’s not my decision. As long as I am still invited by the coaches, I still have much more to give.”
A Leader for the Present and the Future
While the Super Eagles coaching staff has started integrating younger players like Gabriel Osho of Auxerre, Troost-Ekong remains central to the team’s plans. His leadership was instrumental in guiding Nigeria to AFCON qualification, and he is expected to play a significant role in the upcoming tournament.
As the Super Eagles prepare to face Rwanda in tonight’s match, fans can count on their captain’s steady presence. Troost-Ekong has made it clear: his journey with the national team is far from over.