Sports
Coaches Hail Eagles’ Victory
Former Nigerian coaches, Joe Erico, Christian Chukwu, Henry Nwosu, Fanny Amu and Dominic Iorfa have expressed joy over Nigeria’s victory at the 29th AFCON for the third time.
In separate interviews with Tidesports in Lagos, they said that the players and coaches were committed and motivated to succeed.
“I am glad that we came out as winners, although it was not an easy task. Our task now is more on the Confederation’s Cup in Brazil.
“This I know we will not find easy because all the world would be watching us as the new African champions.
“But I believe in the coach and his team,” Erico, the former Super Eagles goalkeeper trainer, said.
Erico noted that the team needed more encouragement from football administrators and fans.
“The team need more of our support. I am not surprised that we won because we always put on a brilliant performance and the coach is ever capable,” he noted
Also, Nwosu, a former assistant coach of the Super Eagles, expressed confidence in the coach and his crew.
“I am happy that Keshi has made us proud as Nigerians, indeed we deserve the win.
“That the goal was scored by a home-based player only goes to show that Kesshi saw the blend would be a perfect fit.
“The confidence level is now high enough to go all the way for more wins in future, but will still need more encouragement from fans.”
Another former coach and Eagles captain, Chukwu expressed satisfaction with the performance of the team describing it as wonderful.
“Our boys have done it again. I saw this turning into a reality when we finally got the goal up.
“They should not, however, relax or allow this to get to their heads because more hurdles are still ahead,” he said.
Former head coach of the Super Falcons Paul Hamilton said it was a superb performance.
“I was astonished with the display on the pitch, it was a good game. I pray that they remain focused.
“I hope that with this good frame of mind, they would excel more to be greater world champions.
“The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) should show more interest in the domestic football league and encourage more sponsors for them.
“They are boys with potential and can bring back Nigeria’s football glory.”
As the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) enters its decisive stretch, the presence of the Chairman of the Delta State Sports Commission, Onos Oborevwori, on Sunday inspired Warri Wolves to a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Plateau United at the Ozoro Township Stadium.
After 36 matches, Rangers International of Enugu lead the standings with 62 points, one ahead of Rivers United, while Shooting Stars of Ibadan sit third with 57 points.
With just two matchdays remaining, the 2025/2026 campaign has been one of the most intense and competitive seasons in recent years. Teams have gone head-to-head in a fierce battle for the title, continental slots, and survival, with several clubs fighting to avoid relegation.
For Warri Wolves—who only recently returned to the top flight after relegation—the season has been a mix of highs and lows. As the campaign nears its conclusion, the Delta State-owned side is pushing to finish strongly.
At the weekend, they took a significant step toward that goal with a narrow win over Plateau United. The victory was buoyed by strong support from Oborevwori, who was pitchside offering encouragement and motivation throughout the game.
Oborevwori has remained a visible and active figure in Delta sports, consistently backing teams and supporting players to achieve better results. In Ozoro, his presence proved influential as Warri Wolves secured the decisive goal that earned them all three points.
The win takes Warri Wolves to 46 points, placing them 12th on the table. With two matches left, they remain in contention for a top-10 finish, with only four points separating teams between eighth and 14th positions.
Determined to see the team finish on a high, Oborevwori has intensified his support, urging the players to win their remaining fixtures and capitalize on results elsewhere.
Speaking after the match, he commended the team’s effort and urged them to maintain the momentum.
“I am proud of the grit and determination shown today by Warri Wolves. Every match is a step forward, and every challenge is an opportunity to grow stronger.ppp
The journey continues, and we stand firmly behind the team.”
Victor Osimhen will be the centre of attention as several of Europe’s biggest clubs send scouts to yesrerday’s Intercontinental Derby between Galatasaray and Fenerbahce, with the Nigerian forward set to play a decisive role in the Super Lig title race
Representatives from Real Madrid, Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Arsenal and Juventus were expected to be present at Rams Park, underlining the scale of interest in both the fixture and its standout performers.
Reports in Turkish media indicate that the derby will serve not only as a key moment in the domestic title race but also as a platform for transfer discussions and strategic collaborations between clubs.
According to those reports, top European sides have secured places at the stadium with a dual purpose.
“Europe’s leading representatives will be present at the stadium within the framework of both player transfer and cooperation,” ,” Milliyet reported.
“Real Madrid, Barcelona, among many clubs, including Bayern Munich, Arsenal, Napoli and Juventus, have made reservations for today’s match.”
Osimhen was expected to be among the primary players under observation, alongside teammates Baris Yilmaz and Gabriel Sara, with scouts closely monitoring their performances in one of the most high-profile fixtures in Turkish football.
The report further noted, “Victor Osimhen, Yilmaz and Sara were at the top of the watch list and that the interest would mainly be in these players.”
It also highlighted broader discussions beyond player recruitment, stating, “Apart from this, ideas will be exchanged for strengthening relations between the clubs and new joint agreements.”
The Nigerian striker’s presence came at a crucial point in the season, with Galatasaray holding a four-point lead over second-placed Fenerbahce and knowing that victory would all but secure the league title with three matches remaining.
Osimhen recently returned from injury, making a brief appearance in the cup defeat to Genclerbirligi after missing four games, a period during which Galatasaray’s form showed signs of inconsistency.
His absence coincided with a mixed run of results in April, where the league leaders recorded two wins, one draw and one defeat, including a loss to Trabzonspor and a draw at home to Kocaelispor.
Defensively, Galatasaray have also shown vulnerability, conceding in each of their last six matches across all competitions, a concern ahead of a fixture that could define their campaign.
The derby follows disappointment in the Turkish Cup, where Galatasaray suffered a shock 2-0 home defeat to Genclerbirligi, while Fenerbahce were also knocked out after a 1-0 loss to Konyaspor
