Sports
Eguavoen, Akanni Laud Eagles Over Victory
A former Head Coach of
the Super Eagles, Austine Eguavoen, has commended the team’s 2-1 victory against the Walya Antelopes of Ethiopia in Addis Ababa last Sunday.
The match was the first-leg of the African qualifying playoffs for the Brazil 2014 World Cup.
Eguavoen told newsmen in Lagos last Monday that the team’s success “lies in their hands”.
“It was a good one, we thank God. Experience paid off, the team has come a long way. I can proudly say that we have a team that plays as a team should.
“Initially, I was a bit skeptical about our defence line, but my doubt was cleared. We have a very good team, I’m beginning to have confidence in our defence line.
“Although, the first half was not so good, but they eventually got their act together; We are happy that Eagles have made us proud again,” Eguavoen said.
He noted that securing an away victory would boost the morale of the team and urged the team to consolidate on the victory.
“I know that match was a tough one, their victory will boost their confidence and they also need to consolidate on this,” he added.
Sharing similar views was Wahidi Akanni, a former Super Eagles player, who urged the team to continue with their winning streak.
“They should not change their chemistry, they should keep this going. I believe that the return leg will not be a tough one because we won’t be under pressure.
“Kudos to the technical crew, led by their able coach, Stephen Keshi. I dare say that Super Eagles is back.
“I hope they keep this up. God willing, we will make an impressible mark at the World Cup,” Akanni stated.
Emmanuel Emenike’s goals (67th and 90th minute penalty kicks) gave the Eagles victory over the Walya Antelopes.
The Ethiopians scored their only goal in the 57th minute through Behailu Asefa.
The Super Eagles is so far the only away victor in the African playoffs, which no doubt would make the return leg in Calabar on November 16 a lot easier for the Nigerian team.
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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