SPORTS
Power, Pride and the Eagles’ Rise at AFCON
By Muhyideen Jimoh
Amid uncertainty, criticism, and widespread scepticism, the Super Eagles landed in Fes under cold skies and persistent Moroccan rain for the 35th Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 2025.
From the start, they arrived carrying a weight heavier than their kits; not as favourites, but as wounded giants, one among 24 contenders all vying for Africa’s coveted crown.
Moreover, this was a team still haunted by the agony of missing the North-America bound World Cup; a team many had written off even before the first ball was kicked in the beautiful Maghreb.
However, from the blast of the first whistle, the Eagles began to peel off doubt like old feathers.
They dimmed Tanzania’s Stars, clipped the Carthage Eagles of Tunisia, and dismantled a disjointed Ugandan Cranes with ruthless efficiency.
In doing so, it was not just victory; it was a declaration, with each match washing away lingering pain and restoring belief.
By the time the tournament tightened into the unforgiving knockout rounds, the Eagles no longer flinched.
Mozambique’s Mambas were swiftly devoured, while Algeria’s old foxes were sent scurrying back to the desert, outpaced by raw hunger and the Naija belief.
Clearly, Nigeria was flying again.
An excited Nigerian coach, Eric Chelle, described the victories as inspiring, adding that preparation and commitment were evident throughout the contest.
“I am extremely proud of the boys. They were happy, focused, and brave. We worked hard, and my vision is clearly taking shape in this team,” Chelle said ahead of the titanic semi-final clash in Rabat.
Then, on the D-day, in the ultimate final-before-the-final as it was dubbed, a hostile red-sea crowd, the roar of Moroccan fans, and questionable officiating all conspired to tilt the vociferous clash.
Albeit this, the Eagles fought with grit, muscle, and belief, but destiny reduced their dream to football’s cruelest lottery: the penalties.
Morocco eventually advanced. Yet, Nigeria staggered but did not fall.
What followed revealed the soul of the nation.
From Abuja came a rallying backup; President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (P-BAT) stood firmly behind the team, urging them to rise again, to empty the tank, and to fight for pride.
In response, the Eagles delivered vintage Nigerian football.
In the bronze medal clash, they caged Egypt’s Pharaohs, seven-time AFCON champions, silencing North Africa’s kings to claim a record ninth AFCON bronze medal; a “golden bronze” forged in resilience rather than regret.
Moments after the final whistle, President Tinubu again spoke not with disappointment, but with pride, noting that the bronze felt like gold.
“Thank you, our gallant Super Eagles. Thank you, our national team players.
This bronze medal surely feels good like gold.
“Despite their good run during the tournament, the Eagles lost the semi-final to Morocco on penalties, and our people’s hopes of winning the championship were dashed.
“However, our players remained undaunted. They showed the resilience of the Nigerian spirit, and their effort has now paid off. This team fought for the badge, for the country, and for our collective pride”.
Clearly, the message resonated far beyond the dressing room.
With soaring wings and confidence renewed, stakeholders insist the task ahead is clear to sustain the flight, build consistency, and push Nigeria back into the elite circle of world football.
Beyond the fierce jungle of competition in Morocco lies a deeper story; one of cohesion, preparation, and strategic support.
Sports stakeholders say the Eagles’ resurgence mirrors a broader reset at home, driven by Tinubu’s deliberate push to reposition Nigerian sports as a global force and a unifying platform for over 240 million citizens.
Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Shehu Dikko, said presidential backing made a significant difference for the team.
“Mr President was personally invested in this team not just in words, but in action.
“From logistics to player welfare, everything was handled with intent. The players felt that confidence from the highest level, and when athletes feel valued, it reflects in their performance,” Dikko said.
Dikko added that the bronze medal represents far more than a podium finish.
“It speaks to the resilience, character, and belief of this Super Eagles team. After a difficult loss against Morocco, they responded with discipline, unity, and courage; values that define Nigerian football and the Nigerian spirit”.
He also thanked President Tinubu for his fatherly love and support for Nigerian sports.
Director General of the NSC, Bukola Olopade, also lauded the players and technical crew for their commitment and professionalism throughout the tournament.
“This is a team that gave Nigerians hope, excitement, and pride. Winning the bronze medal against a strong Egyptian side, and doing so with composure under pressure, is a testament to the mental strength of the players and the quality of preparation by the technical crew,” Olopade said.
“The collective effort of the squad reflects a team that believes in itself and in the future of Nigerian football”.
Special Adviser to the President on Information and Communication, and former Sports Minister, Sunday Dare, described the AFCON outing as a product of intentional leadership.
“President Bola Tinubu understands the power of sports to inspire hope, unite diverse people, and project Nigeria positively to the world. His support for the team was massive,” Dare said.
Tinubu’s influence, stakeholders argue, extends beyond football, as seen in the development of the so-called lesser sports.
It will be recalled that, following recent continental triumphs, Nigeria’s women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, and the Super Falcons were rewarded with cash bonuses, national honours, and houses.
They also received renewed institutional backing; gestures widely seen as restoring dignity to national service.
Analysts say the message is clear; excellence will be recognised, and sacrifice will be rewarded.
As the Super Eagles reflect on their AFCON campaign with quiet pride rather than loud celebration, their combination of talent, teamwork, and renewed belief has reignited a shared Nigerian dream.
Support from the presidency has reinforced this momentum, helping create a vision of football as a unifying force that lifts the nation’s spirit.
Ultimately, in Morocco, the Eagles did more than compete for a trophy; they reclaimed national pride, reinforced their identity, and reminded millions at home and abroad of the power of belief. (NAN)
The late Chief Gabriel Gbayan was a distinguished sports administrator who served as a Two times Chairman of the FCT Badminton Association and also a two-time board member of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria. Throughout his tenure and involvement in the sport, he made significant contributions to the growth, promotion, and development of badminton in the North Central region and Nigeria as a whole.
His commitment to badminton extended beyond administration. He demonstrated a genuine passion for the development of players, the organization of competitions, and the advancement of the sport at grassroots and national levels.
During his tenure, Chief Gabriel Gbayan organized a National Junior Badminton Championship and the North Central Badminton Championships, providing valuable opportunities for players to showcase their talents, gain competitive experience, and develop their sporting careers.
In addition to his administrative and organizational contributions, he personally sponsored badminton players and supported their participation and development. His generosity and commitment helped create opportunities for players who needed encouragement and financial assistance to pursue their sporting ambitions.
His contributions to the badminton community were therefore not limited to holding positions of responsibility; they were reflected in the practical support he provided to players, the competitions he helped organize, and his commitment to strengthening badminton in Nigeria.
JUSTIFICATION FOR THE MEMORIAL CHAMPIONSHIP
In recognition of these remarkable contributions, Vanz Badminton Foundation, in collaboration with Mambila Barracks Badminton Club and the Badminton Federation of Nigeria, considers it both appropriate and necessary to honour the memory of the late Chief Gabriel Gbayan through the organization of the Late Chief Gabriel Gbayan FCT Memorial Badminton Championship 2026.
This championship is intended to be more than a sporting competition. It will serve as a lasting tribute to a man whose dedication, generosity, leadership, and personal commitment contributed to the development of badminton and the advancement of its players.
We believe that honouring individuals who have made meaningful contributions to sports development is an important way of preserving their legacies and inspiring others to follow their examples.
By establishing this memorial championship, we hope to encourage current and future sports administrators, philanthropists, corporate organizations, and badminton enthusiasts to continue investing their time, resources, and expertise in the growth of badminton in Nigeria.
The championship will also bring together players from different age groups, including junior players, active competitors, and veterans, thereby promoting unity, mentorship, and continuity within the badminton community.
We therefore appeal to corporate organizations, government institutions, philanthropists, and well-meaning individuals to support this initiative. Their contributions will help us celebrate the legacy of the late Chief Gabriel Gbayan while creating meaningful opportunities for the next generation of badminton players.
Our conviction is that those who dedicate themselves to the growth of a sport should be remembered and honoured, and their examples should inspire others to contribute to the development of future generations.
Through this championship, we seek to preserve Chief Gabriel Gbayan’s memory, celebrate his service, and strengthen the spirit of generosity and commitment that he demonstrated throughout his involvement in badminton
May his legacy continue to inspire the growth and development of badminton in the North Central region and Nigeria as a whole.
Harry Kane has become the first English player in 25 years to win the prestigious Ballon d’Or after emerging victorious at Monday’s ceremony in London.
The Bayern Munich striker clinched the 2026 award after scoring 73 goals for club and country last season, surpassing Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappe and Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal.
Kane’s triumph makes him the latest Englishman to win the award after Michael Owen, who received the honour in 2001.
The England captain joins an illustrious list of English winners, including Sir Stanley Matthews, Sir Bobby Charlton and Kevin Keegan.
An emotional Kane expressed gratitude to France Football, organisers of the award, and everyone who voted for him.
“Wow, I’m almost speechless. First of all, thanks again to France Football and the Ballon d’Or for this amazing event.
“Being in London makes it extra special; it felt like a good omen,” he said.
Kane also thanked England, Bayern Munich and his former club, Tottenham Hotspur, for their contributions to his remarkable career.
Reflecting on his journey, he said aspiring footballers could achieve their dreams through perseverance, in spite of setbacks and challenges.
He added that his journey had not been straightforward, citing several loan spells and the determination required to reach the highest level.
The ceremony was preceded by confusion after the Ballon d’Or website published three separate articles naming Kane, Yamal and Mbappe as winners of the men’s award.
The event also started 45 minutes behind schedule, with organisers attributing the delay to traffic congestion in London.
In the final rankings, Kane finished first, followed by Mbappe in second place and Yamal in third.
Manchester City’s Rodri finished fourth, while Lionel Messi of Inter Miami placed fifth in the rankings.
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia of Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) came sixth, ahead of teammate Ousmane Dembele in seventh place.
Manchester City’s Erling Haaland finished eighth, while Bayern Munich’s Michael Olise and PSG’s Fabian Ruiz completed the top 10.
In the women’s category, Alexia Putellas won the Ballon d’Or, representing London City Lionesses and Barcelona, alongside Spain.
Spain’s Luis de la Fuente won the Men’s Coach of the Year award, while Barcelona’s Pere Romeu received the Women’s Coach of the Year honour.
Yamal won the Men’s Young Talent of the Year award, while Barcelona teammate Vicky Lopez claimed the women’s equivalent.
Kane also won the Men’s Striker of the Year award, while Mexico’s Charlyn Corral received the Women’s Striker of the Year prize.
Spain’s Unai Simon won the Men’s Goalkeeper of the Year award, while Barcelona’s Cata Coll claimed the women’s category.
PSG was named Men’s Club of the Year, while Barcelona won the Women’s Club of the Year award.
Arsenal and England forward Bukayo Saka received the Socrates Award in recognition of his humanitarian work.
Litten, Knowles in for England as O’Neill Drops Out
Jez Litten and Morgan Knowles have been brought into the starting line-up for England’s must-win Men’s Rugby League World Cup match against Papua New Guinea – with Brad O’Neill dropping out of the squad.
Hull KR’s Litten comes in at hooker as head coach Brian McDermott chases a big victory in their final Group B-C match in Wollongong on Friday (09:05 GMT) to keep alive hopes of reaching the semi-finals.
O’Neill, named the best player in Super League in 2026, is not in the 19-player matchday squad, having worn the number nine for last Saturday’s victory over France.
Dolphins lock Knowles comes in after missing the opening two matches with a calf injury, replacing Victor Radley, who drops to the bench.
Warrington’s Matty Ashton, brought in for the France match, retains his place on the wing, with Wigan’s Zach Eckersley again not in the matchday 19.
McDermott, however, has made late changes to his initial matchday squad for both of England’s two matches so far, and may do so again before Friday.
On the backfoot after being beaten 30-12 by Tonga in their opening game, England responded with a crushing 82-0 victory over France to keep their dreams alive.
England need to beat co-hosts PNG then hope Tonga beat Samoa, two days later in Sydney.
If Samoa win, England will be eliminated because of their inferior head-to-head record against Tonga.
But if Tonga win, it comes down to points difference between England and Samoa with England’s currently 68 points worse than the Samoans.
The match is part of a triple header in Wollongong, with England’s wheelchair team starting the defence of their World Cup title against Wales (04:30 GMT) before the women’s side face Samoa (06:45 GMT).
Georgia Roche replaced Jenna Foubister at half-back for England women, with Hope Millard stepping up to the bench for their must-win final group game.
England have to beat Samoa to finish second in Group A and qualify for the semi-finals.
They beat Wales 70-6 in their opener, but were thrashed 78-0 by reigning champions Australia in Perth last weekend.
Foubister, 19, started against Australia after a superb domestic season where she was named Super League Woman of Steel.
But she struggled against the strength of Australia, so Coach Stu Barrow has opted for the experience of Roche instead.
The loss of key player Eva Hunter to a leg injury suffered against the Jillaroos has prompted a pack reshuffle, with Hollie-Mae Dodd moving from prop to the back row.
Mary Coleman comes in at prop as a result, while England are boosted by captain Jodie Cunningham overcoming an ear injury suffered last week to be named on the bench.
Georgia Wilson is in for Molly Jones in the centres, while Millard, the only heritage player left in the England set-up following Jasmin Strange’s tournament ending knee injury is back in the squad.
A win would earn England a semi-final spot, where they would most likely face New Zealand, who beat them in the last four of the previous World Cup in 2022.
Dual code international Ffion Lewis returns to the Wales side for their final Group A match, against world champions Australia in Sydney on Sunday (04:40 GMT). Carys Marsh steps up from the bench and will start at hooker.
Australia, already assured of a semi-final place, have made several changes. Stand-off Jocelyn Kelleher, who was outstanding against England last Saturday, is rested with Jesse Southwell taking her place.
Australia coach Kevin Walters has recalled Reece Walsh at full-back for their final Group A game against the Cook Islands on Saturday (09:05 GMT).
Walsh, whose 2026 domestic season was disrupted by injury troubles, started Australia’s thrilling World Cup opener against New Zealand.
He scored a try but kicked just two of five conversions as the Kangaroos squeezed to a 24-22 win. He was then rested against Fiji in their second group match, which Australia won 36-22.
Walsh returns in place of James Tedesco at full-back, with Cameron Munster returning at stand-off as Sam Walker drops out of the 19, and Harry Grant regaining the number nine hooker’s jersey.
Ethan Strange brother of injured England women’s star Jasmin is in line for a Test debut after being named on the bench.
Veteran Sports Journalist and Commissioner for Sports Development in Akwa Ibom State, Paul Bassey, has hailed the state Governor, Pastor Umo Eno over what he described as the prevailing peace in the state.
“ If naysayers pretend they cannot see anything Governor Umo Eno has done, can they deny the peace we are witnessing in Akwa Ibom today, Unprecedented peace?” Bassey in a goodwill message delivered at the 25th Annual Convention of the Apostolic Church, Atabong Area in Eket Local Govt.
“ It is a coincidence that the Theme of this Convention is “ The Peace of God” and it reminds me of the peace God has used our Governor to bear on our state.
“ Before now, you cannot even worship in peace as bandits raided churches on Sunday mornings, shot and killed, abducted worshippers, threatened oppositions.
“ Please let us tell our Children and family members that in the past, at times like this, houses and cars were burnt, terror everywhere and you can hardly sleep with your two eyes closed “ the Eket ward 2 Urban leader said.
The Elder of the Apostolic Church reminded the congregation that “this governor is not only a son of Eket, he is a spiritual son of The Apostolic Church and must be embraced and supported for a second term “ and this drew a thunderous “Amen” from the mammoth crowd.
Elder Bassey said without peace there would be no development and as a member of His the Governor’s “First Eleven” he was better placed to talk about “this grass roots Governor, whose programs are tailored towards the welfare of the less privileged in society especially in the areas of health, education and in my case, the empowerment of youth through sports .“
In his sermon, the Eket Field Superintendent of The Apostolic church Pastor(Dr) B. E. Okon enjoined Christians to embrace the peace of God that eliminates fear and life’s challenges.
Drawing his text from Mathew 5:9 the Deputy Territorial Chairman of The Apostolic Church insisted that “blessed are the peace makers for they shall be called children of God”
Elder Bassey in company of other dignitaries including Pastor Etangkanga, vice chairman Esit Eket Local government, village head of Atabong Dr Ikwang later joined the Field Superintendent and the host Area Superintendent Pastor O. D James to cut the 25th anniversary Convention cake.
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