by Emmanuel Atanga | Nov 14, 2024 | Uncategorized
Lyon’s Nigerian forward Gift Orban finds himself at a crossroads as Lens, one of the clubs rumored to be interested in his services, has reportedly ruled out any potential transfer.
The 22-year-old striker, who joined Lyon last January after a breakout season with Gent, has struggled to adapt at his new club. Despite his impressive track record of 32 goals and two assists in 52 appearances in Belgium, Orban has found limited success at Lyon, scoring only twice in five games this season. His difficulties on the field have been compounded by Lyon’s broader issues, as the club grapples with instability both on and off the pitch.
Though he has been fit for most of the season, Orban’s playing time has been minimal, leading to widespread speculation about a potential transfer. Lens, initially mentioned as a possible destination, has reportedly chosen not to pursue him. Instead, coach Will Still is focusing on developing young talent rather than bringing in an underperforming striker.
With limited prospects for improvement under current coach Pierre Sage, a move in January might be Orban’s best opportunity to secure regular minutes and reignite his career.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Nov 14, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Nigeria, Soccer
In a turn of events that showcased the unpredictability of football, Nigeria’s Super Eagles secured their spot at the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 before even setting foot on the field against the Benin Republic. This unexpected qualification came as a result of Rwanda’s 1-0 home defeat to Libya in Kigali on Thursday, November 14.
Nigeria entered the qualification campaign knowing a draw or win against Benin in Abidjan would guarantee their place in Morocco next year. However, with Rwanda’s loss, the Super Eagles’ tally of ten points became unreachable for their closest competitors. Rwanda’s slip-up kept them locked at five points after five games, eliminating their chance to catch up with Nigeria even if the Super Eagles were to lose their remaining matches.
The result saw Nigeria become the 11th nation to qualify for the tournament, joining other heavyweights, including host nation Morocco, Burkina Faso, Algeria, DR Congo, Cote d’Ivoire, Senegal, and Equatorial Guinea. Notably, Egypt, Cameroon, and Angola have also clinched qualification.
Nigeria’s Super Eagles, who finished as vice-champions earlier this year, will head to Morocco 2025 with eyes set on their fourth AFCON title. The tournament is set to take place between December 21, 2025, and January 18, 2026.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Nov 14, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Nigeria, Soccer
In the wake of Libya’s recent victory over Rwanda, Nigeria’s Super Eagles have officially secured their spot in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco. While celebrations are in order, this qualification has sparked a unique ripple effect in Group C. Libya, now holding onto a slim chance of qualifying, depends on Nigeria’s performance in their final matches. For Libya to have any chance of joining the Super Eagles in Morocco, Nigeria must defeat both Benin Republic and Rwanda in their upcoming fixtures.
But not all Nigerian fans are on board with this idea. Some, humorously or otherwise, have started hoping that Nigeria might not go all out in these matches. They would rather see Libya miss out on the chance for AFCON glory than aid their path to Morocco. This tug-of-war between qualification dreams and national loyalties has added an intriguing twist to the closing stages of the qualifiers, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Nov 14, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Ghana, Soccer
In a bid to fill gaps left by eight sidelined players, Ghana’s Black Stars have welcomed six new talents to the squad, ready to face Angola in a pivotal Africa Cup of Nations qualifier. These additions include Osman Bukari from Austin FC, Ransford Yeboah Koningsdorffer of Hamburger SV, Forson Amankwah from Norwich City, Terry Yegbe from IF Elfsborg, Ebenezer Annan of OFK Beograd, and Kingsley Schindler from Samsunspor.
Ghana Football Association’s Communication Director, Henry Asante Twum, confirmed the news and expressed optimism about the players’ desire to make a mark. Speaking to Peace FM and monitored by Sportsblog247.com, Twum emphasized the ambition and drive these players are bringing to the camp. “The players who got the chance to come in are looking forward to taking advantage and impressing the technical team,” he shared.
This fresh lineup will join the squad for an official training session on November 14 at Luanda’s Estadio 11 de Novembro, where the team will solidify their game plan. With a place in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on the line, the Black Stars’ new recruits know this is their moment to shine.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Nov 14, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Ghana, Soccer
In a bid to fill gaps left by eight sidelined players, Ghana’s Black Stars have welcomed six new talents to the squad, ready to face Angola in a pivotal Africa Cup of Nations qualifier. These additions include Osman Bukari from Austin FC, Ransford Yeboah Koningsdorffer of Hamburger SV, Forson Amankwah from Norwich City, Terry Yegbe from IF Elfsborg, Ebenezer Annan of OFK Beograd, and Kingsley Schindler from Samsunspor.
Ghana Football Association’s Communication Director, Henry Asante Twum, confirmed the news and expressed optimism about the players’ desire to make a mark. Speaking to Peace FM and monitored by Ghanasoccernet.com, Twum emphasized the ambition and drive these players are bringing to the camp. “The players who got the chance to come in are looking forward to taking advantage and impressing the technical team,” he shared.
This fresh lineup will join the squad for an official training session on November 14 at Luanda’s Estadio 11 de Novembro, where the team will solidify their game plan. With a place in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on the line, the Black Stars’ new recruits know this is their moment to shine.
