Sports
Nigeria’s W/Cup Hopes Hinge On Players’ Fitness -Balogun
Super Eagles Defender, Leon Balogun has stated that Nigeria’s World Cup hopes in Russia is dependent on the players’ fitness.
The Mainz 05 defender has missed his side’s last three games while Leicester City’s Powerhouse, Wilfred Ndidi is currently struggling with a hamstring injury and Torino’s midfielder Joel Obi is also in a race to be fit for the showpiece.
Nigeria will have to navigate their way past Argentina, Croatia and Iceland in Group D as they hope to surpass their previous performances in the tournament.
And the former Werder Bremen man is confident that Gernot Rohr’s men have the ability to do well in the tourney provided they stay clear of injury.
“We have a team capable of doing well in Russia and this team can perform to expectations if we have everyone in great shape.”
“As a professional, you don’t think so much about getting injured or avoiding it, you just give everything on the pitch for club and country.
“I know injuries come with football and if we are very lucky not have it, then all the players in Nigerian colours have the spirit to fight for success until the end.
“Many players will be going for the first time and ready to shine on the biggest stage for football. It’s the dedication and passion that drives us as a team.
“Some so-called big teams will also miss players due to injuries but we can only hope for the best and go to Russia with the same spirit we have now.” Balogun told BBC Sport
The three times African champions have played three high profile friendlies with Argentina, Poland and Serbia. They will also trade tackles with DR Congo on May 28 and England on June 2 before the World Cup.
“We’ve enjoyed a good preparation so far and learning from our mistakes as well,” he continued.
“These last three matches will give us a chance to get in the right place for the World Cup.”
The Bayelsa State government, yesterday, announced that the marathon will be held on Saturday, April 4, 2026.
The inaugural race is owned by the Bayelsa State Government and will be organised by Nilayo Sports Management Limited, a sports management company.
Under the theme “The Reveal,” the race represents a bold unveiling of Bayelsa’s immense human and cultural potential to the international community, inviting the world to witness the resilience, grit, and talent rooted in the heart of the Niger Delta.
According to the organisers, the race will be flagged off at 9:30 a.m., at the Opolo Roundabout, guiding participants through a carefully designed 10-kilometre route that highlights the scenic beauty and vibrant atmosphere of Yenagoa.
The course will culminate at Peace Park Square, where athletes will cross the finish line into a grand celebration of endurance, unity, and community spirit.
To elevate the experience for runners and spectators alike, the finish venue will host a high-energy post-race concert featuring performances from top A-list artistes, blending sport and entertainment in a festival-style atmosphere.
The organisers directed all registered participants to collect their race bibs and kits at the designated Peace Park Square between March 30 and April 3, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily.
The race, according to them, is currently on track for World Athletics accreditation, underscoring the commitment of both the Bayelsa State Government and Nilayo Sports Management Limited to delivering an event that meets the highest global standards.
The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Bukola Olopade, on Friday continued the Commission’s nationwide appreciation tour with a visit to Abeokuta, where outstanding junior athlete, Majekodunmi Afusat Bisola, was presented with a cheque of N3 million.
The presentation forms part of the NSC’s initiative to recognise and reward exceptional junior athletes who distinguished themselves in 2025 and contributed significantly to Nigeria’s medal haul.
Majekodunmi delivered an impressive run of performances on the track. At the last edition of the National Sports Festival, she stormed to gold in the 400m and the 4x400m relay. She replicated the double triumph at the Confederation of African Athletics (CAA) Junior Championship, in Abeokuta, before emerging as one of the standout stars at the African Youth Games in Luanda, Angola.
Speaking during the presentation, Olopade explained that the Commission deemed it necessary to extend financial appreciation to grassroots athletes after elite performers had earlier received grants running into thousands of dollars.
“A few weeks ago, after paying grants to our elite athletes, we agreed tthere was a need to also appreciate these young, budding talents who made Nigeria proud last year,” he said.
He disclosed that of the 376 medals recorded by Nigerian athletes in 2025, more than 200 were won by grassroots talents, underscoring the importance of sustained investment in youth development.
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