Sports

Nigeria vs South Africa: Shettima’s presence, significant source of inspiration – Aide

The presence of Vice-President Kashim Shettima at the semi-final match between Super Eagles and South Africa, served as a significant source of inspiration.

The Spokesperson of the vice-president, Stanley Nkwocha, stated this in a statement on Wednesday while reacting to the Super Eagles’ 4-2 victory over Bafana Bafana.

The match which held at the Stade de la Paix in Bouaké, Côte d’Ivoire, saw Nigeria overcome its opponents on penalties after extra time.

Nkwocha also said that Shettima’s unwavering support and belief in the team’s capabilities resonated deeply with the players and fans alike.

“While the precise factors behind the team’s success remain multifaceted, the presence of Shettima, undoubtedly served as a significant source of inspiration.

“As the Super Eagles prepare for the final, the nation stands united in support, eager to witness them etch their names in footballing history.

“The entire country awaits their return with bated breath, confident that they will deliver their best performance yet and bring the AFCON trophy home.

“Their performance throughout the tournament has been marked by exceptional talent, determination, and resilience, captivating the hearts of fans nationwide,”he said.

Eagles qualified for the final after beating South Africa’s Bafana Bafana 4-2 on penalty kicks, after a 1-1 draw over 120 minutes of play in the 2023 AFCON semi-finals in Bouake, Côte d’Ivoire.

The VP was in company of Governors Dapo Abiodun (Ogun) and Duoye Diri (Bayelsa), Minister for Youth, Dr. Jamila Ibrahim as well as Oil mogul Wale Tinubu, FIFA Council Member Amaju Pinnick and NFF President Ibrahim Musa Gusau.

Sports

Manchester City stutter again, draw 2-2 at Crystal Palace

Premier League Fixtures Postponed Following Queen’s Death

Manchester City’s Premier League title defence stuttered again with a 2-2 draw at Crystal Palace on Saturday.

City twice came from behind to pick a point at Selhurst Park, but the champions have now won only once in six league games – four of which have been lost.

Palace led through full back Daniel Munoz’s fourth-minute goal before Erling Haaland headed City level.

Maxence Lacroix restored Palace’s lead after the break and Rico Lewis fired a fine 68th-minute leveller for Pep Guardiola’s side.

Lewis was later sent off six minutes from time for two bookings.

City are now eight points behind leaders Liverpool, having played a game more than Arne Slot’s side.

Liverpool’s derby at Everton was postponed due to a storm.

Sports

CAF President conveys condolences to the victims of Guinea stadium tragedy

The Confédération of African Football (CAF) President Dr Patrice Motsepe has conveyed condolences to the victims of the Guinea stadium tragedy.

According to a press release by CAF, Dr. Motsepe is deeply saddened by the stadium stampede that claimed the lives of over 50 football fans and left others injured during a football match at the Stade du 3 Avril in N’Zérékoré.

The tragedy occurred during a friendly football tournament between the city of N’Zérékoré and the city of Labe.

CAF President Dr Motsepe conveys his and CAF’s deepest condolences to the families of the deceased, the Fédération Guinéenne de Football (FGF) Leadership and the people of Guinea.

Dr Motsepe also wished a speedy recovery to the injured football fans.
(Sports village square)

Sports

Leicester city coach Steve Cooper sacked

Leicester City have sacked Steve Cooper after a run of two wins in 12 Premier League matches.

Assistant Manager Alan Tate and First Team Coach and Analyst Steve Rands have also been released by the club.

The statement from the club reads: “Steve, Alan and Steve depart with our thanks for their contribution during their time with the Club and with our best wishes for the future

Men’s First Team training will be overseen by First Team Coach Ben Dawson, supported by coaches Danny Alcock and Andy Hughes, as the Club begins the process of appointing a new manager, which we hope to conclude as soon as possible.”

Leicester City currently sit 16th in the table and a point adrift of safety.

The club dropped the hammer on Steve Cooper after their defeat against Chelsea on Saturday