Sports

Cricket Federation Confident as U-19 Women’s Team Gears Up for World Cup

Published

1 month ago

January 10, 2025

Admin

By Oluwamayowa Fakande

The Nigeria Cricket Federation (NCF), is brimming with confidence ahead of the U-19 Women’s World Cup, with its Public Relations Officer, Musa Ehizoje, asserting that the team’s tour of India will significantly impact their performance in Malaysia.
Nigeria clinched the sole African qualification spot in Rwanda last September, earning a place in the global tournament set for January 18 to February 2.
Speaking on Thursday, Ehizoje emphasized that the India tour was designed to sharpen the team’s competitive edge.
“After securing qualification, the players trained in high-performance facilities in Edo and Lagos, but the Federation felt more was needed.
“We sent them to Omtex ICWC Cricket Institute in India, which boasts one of the best cricket training facilities in the country.
“In the past five days, they have played competitive matches against Omtex teams, undergone extensive training, and even participated in yoga sessions to enhance their physical and mental resilience.
“The experience will undoubtedly reflect in their World Cup campaign,” he said.
The team is set to depart India for Malaysia on Sunday, where they will compete in Group C, opening against Samoa on January 18 before facing New Zealand on January 20 and South Africa on January 22.
Nigeria and South Africa will represent Africa in the 16-nation tournament, with South Africa gaining automatic qualification based on rankings.
Meanwhile, National Sports Commission (NSC), Director General, Bukola Olopade, assured that the commission is providing logistical, technical, and financial support to ensure a strong Nigerian performance on the world stage.

Sports

Chelsea’s Goalkeeper Shake-Up: Jorgensen Replaces Sanchez

Published

4 hours ago

February 13, 2025

Samson Adeyanju

By Abaire Olanlesi

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has confirmed that Filip Jorgensen is now the club’s first-choice goalkeeper, replacing Robert Sanchez after a string of costly errors.

The 22-year-old Jorgensen, who started in Chelsea’s 2-1 win over West Ham, was given the nod as Maresca looks to stabilize the squad’s form.

While Sanchez returned for the FA Cup loss to Brighton, Maresca clarified that the decision was to aid his recovery, but Jorgensen remains his preferred option.

Despite recent struggles, Chelsea remains fourth in the Premier League, with Maresca optimistic about securing Champions League qualification.

Sports

Mendy Joins FC Zurich on Two-Year Deal

Published

1 day ago

February 12, 2025

ADMIN

By Abaire Bisola

Former Manchester City left-back Benjamin Mendy has signed with Swiss club FC Zurich on a contract running until 2026.

The 30-year-old defender joins from French side Lorient, where he made 15 appearances before their relegation to Ligue 2.

His move follows a legal victory against Manchester City, which allowed him to recover withheld wages after his acquittal on rape charges.

FC Zurich, currently eighth in the Swiss Super League, secured Mendy’s services before the transfer window closes on February 17.

Sports

NFF Secures Home for Super Eagles Coach Chelle in Abuja

Published

2 days ago

February 11, 2025

ADMIN

By Gabriella Ogbu

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), is arranging permanent accommodation in Abuja for Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle, as he prepares to settle in Nigeria.

Chelle, currently in Europe meeting key Super Eagles players ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, is expected back before the month’s end.

Upon his return, he will select his preferred residence, ensuring stability for his tenure.

Unlike previous foreign coaches Gernot Rohr and Jose Peseiro, who stayed in hotels, the NFF is prioritizing a permanent home for Chelle to enhance his commitment and effectiveness with the team.