The Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) has officially approved 30 Nigerian referees and assistant referees for international duties in 2026, marking another significant milestone for Nigerian football officiating. The list, released by FIFA, features a mix of experienced and emerging officials across various categories, including central referees, assistant referees, futsal referees, and beach soccer
The Gabonese government has taken the unprecedented step of suspending the national football team and banning star striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang following the team’s disappointing performance at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Gabon suffered three consecutive defeats in the group stage, culminating in a 3-2 loss to Ivory Coast after leading 2-0. This performance
By Kazeem Ajibola Shoyebo Chelsea Football Club has officially announced the departure of head coach Enzo Maresca, ending his 18-month tenure at Stamford Bridge. The decision, described as mutual, follows a period of internal tensions and underwhelming performances on the pitch. Maresca, who joined Chelsea in July 2024, leaves behind a mixed legacy, having achieved
By Kazeem Ajibola Shoyebo Enzo Maresca’s tenure as Chelsea’s head coach appears increasingly uncertain, with reports indicating a potential departure following a breakdown in relations with the club’s hierarchy. While no official statement has been released by Chelsea FC, multiple sources suggest that Maresca’s position is under serious threat. The Italian tactician, who took over
By Kazeem Ajibola Shoyebo Nigeria’s Super Eagles will lock horns with the Mambas of Mozambique on Monday, January 5, in a high-stakes Round of 16 clash at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The fixture will take place at the 35,000-capacity Complexe Sportif de Fès, the same venue where Nigeria played all three of
By Rasheed Adewuyi, New York Former Nigeria international and current TS Galaxy FC goalkeeper trainer, Greg Etafia, has added his voice to the growing calls for increased competition in the Super Eagles’ goalkeeping department at the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco. Speaking on South Africa’s TSHEDZA Sports programme, Etafia stressed the importance
Brazilian football legend Roberto Carlos, 52, was hospitalized in São Paulo after a routine medical check revealed a heart issue. Initially seeking treatment for a leg concern, doctors discovered a small blood clot, prompting a full-body MRI that uncovered irregular heart function. Carlos underwent emergency surgery to insert a catheter—a procedure expected to last 40
In a significant boost for Nigeria’s national football team, FIFA has officially approved goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo’s request to switch his international allegiance from England to Nigeria. This decision makes the 24-year-old Wrexham shot-stopper eligible for selection by Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle in upcoming international fixtures. Born in Camden, England, to Nigerian parents, Okonkwo
By Rasheed Adewuyi, New York As Nigeria prepares for its Round of 16 showdown at the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, head coach Eric Chelle has admitted that the depth of his squad is giving him a welcome selection dilemma. The Super Eagles wrapped up their group stage campaign with a commanding
Nigeria’s Super Eagles are grappling with injury concerns as they prepare for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 knockout rounds. Ryan Alebiosu’s Tournament in Jeopardy Right-back Ryan Alebiosu, who made his debut in Nigeria’s 3–1 victory over Uganda, sustained a deep cut on his right leg during the match. The injury has cast doubt