Sports

Siasia Speaks Out on FIFA Ban: I Was Denied a Chance to Defend Myself

Published

2 years ago

August 25, 2024

ADMIN

Coach Samson Siasia has expressed his readiness to resume his passion for coaching after completing a ban imposed by FIFA over match-fixing allegations. Speaking at an event organized by friends and parents of the Siaone Soccer Academy in Abuja, Siasia shared his emotional journey over the past five years, reflecting on his time away from football.

Siasia, a former Super Eagles player and coach, was initially handed a lifetime ban, which was later reduced to five years by the Court of Arbitration for Sport in 2019. He revealed that the ban was a shock and devastating, as he was never informed of the investigation against him and was not given the opportunity to defend himself before being sentenced.

“I was never informed that I was under investigation for any allegation. I did not have the opportunity to defend myself even once before I was banned,” Siasia explained. He went on to express his gratitude to God for the end of the ordeal and affirmed his commitment to continuing his coaching career with the same honesty and sincerity he had maintained throughout his 25-year career.

Siasia emphasized that despite the ban, he remained deeply connected to football, using the time to update his knowledge of the game. “Not one day out of the 1,826 days was wasted in agony or hopelessness. It was a period of serious reflection and painstaking updating,” he said, assuring his supporters that he is now back, more resolved and determined than ever.

Siasia concluded by thanking those who supported him during his difficult period, particularly his family, supporters, and sports journalists, as well as the committee of friends and parents of Siaone Soccer Academy for organizing the event in his honor.

Abuja Reports

ASP Justina Amah Emerges Star Performer, Wins Gold, Silver, Bronze

Published

4 months ago

March 12, 2026

Editor

By Samson Adeyanju

ASP Justina Amah of the Nigeria Police Force has emerged as the star performer at the February 2026 Delta Police Games, clinching a gold medal, a silver, and a bronze, further cementing her reputation as one of the Force’s top athletes.

Hailing from Ozalla in Igboetiti LGA, Enugu State, ASP Amah has consistently elevated the Nigeria Police Force through her sporting prowess.

Over the years, she has amassed an impressive collection of medals, including 8 gold in Karate, 4 gold in other sports, 8 silver, and 8 bronze, showcasing her versatility and dedication.

Beyond her achievements on the field, ASP Justina is widely recognized for her discipline and professionalism.

In 2023, she was honoured as the Ica & Sons Books Most Disciplined Police Woman in Camp, reflecting her exemplary conduct both on duty and in her community.

Observers and colleagues have called for her to receive special recognition and promotion, noting that her accomplishments not only bring glory to the Police Force but also serve as an inspiration to aspiring athletes and officers nationwide.

ASP Justina Amah’s journey highlights the power of talent, commitment, and perseverance in achieving excellence.

News

Arsenal Stay Top as Liverpool Hit Five in Premier League Showdowns

Published

4 months ago

March 2, 2026

Editor

By Samuel Adeola

Arsenal maintained their grip at the top of the Premier League with a hard fought 2-1 victory over Chelsea in a tense London derby.

The Gunners showed composure under pressure to secure all three points and keep their title ambitions firmly on track.

Manchester City remain in close pursuit after edging Leeds United 1-0 away from home. The narrow win keeps City within touching distance as the title race intensifies.

At Anfield, Liverpool delivered the standout performance of the weekend, thrashing West Ham 5-2 in a ruthless attacking display. The emphatic result strengthens Liverpool’s push for a Champions League place.

Elsewhere, Manchester United boosted their European hopes with a 2-1 win over Crystal Palace. Everton stunned Newcastle 3-2 in a dramatic encounter, while Brentford edged Burnley 4-3 in a seven goal thriller.

Brighton secured a 2-1 victory over Nottingham Forest and Fulham defeated Tottenham 2 1. Bournemouth and Sunderland shared the spoils in a 1-1 draw.

With Arsenal leading and City close behind, the title race remains wide open, while the battle for European places continues to gather pace.

News

Champions League Round of 16 Draw Produces Heavyweight Clashes

Published

4 months ago

February 27, 2026

Editor

By Samuel Adeola

The draw for the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League Round of 16 has produced blockbuster fixtures as Europe’s elite begin their knockout push toward Budapest 2026.

Among the standout ties, Paris Saint-Germain will face Chelsea, while Real Madrid renew their rivalry with Manchester City in what is billed as the clash of the round.

Elsewhere, Galatasaray take on Liverpool, and Atalanta meet Bayern Munich.

Other fixtures see Newcastle United against Barcelona, Atletico Madrid versus Tottenham Hotspur, Bodø/Glimt against Sporting CP, and Bayer Leverkusen facing Arsenal.

The ties will be played over two legs in March, with winners advancing to the quarter-finals.