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AFCON: ‘Be strong, you did your best for Nigeria’ – Sports minister tells Iwobi

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The Honourable Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh recently had a discussion with Super Eagles midfielder, Alex Iwobi following cyber bullies against the Fulham star.

This was disclosed in a statement signed by Enoh’s media aide, Diana-Mary Tiku Nsan on Monday.

Enoh, who led the Super Eagles of Nigeria back home after the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations final against Ivory Coast, told Iwobi: “I am aware of what is happening on social media and as a ministry, this is not the first time we are going to make a statement against bullying, not just you but our sportsmen and women in general who are exposed to bullying due to the outcome of competitions.

“We are concerned about how our sportsmen and women are treated.”

The final AFCON 2023 has seen Iwobi experience a routine of unpleasant remarks hurled at him.

Iwobi confirmed leaving social media after the final game.

“For me, I have taken myself out of social media after yesterday’s game,” he said.

Enoh, however, encouraged the former Arsenal star saying:

“You did your best for your country and I am proud of you. The leadership and the rest of the country is proud of you.

“Those who are not are in the far minority and do not speak for the rest of our country, so just be strong.

“You did your best, you are part of a team that brought home a silver medal which the country last won at AFCON 2000, which is 23 years ago. You put in your best, thank you very much.”

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CAF announces free e-visas for fans attending AFCON Morocco 2025

“Electronic visas to enter Morocco — obtained through the YALLA app — are now free of charge for supporters attending the competition, which runs from 21 December 2025 to 18 January 2026,” said CAF.

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The Confederation of African Football and the AFCON Morocco 2025 Local Organising Committee on Friday announced that fans travelling to the tournament will be eligible for free electronic visas.

In a statement on its website, CAF said that the policy benefits citizens of countries that normally require a visa to enter Morocco.

“Electronic visas to enter Morocco — obtained through the YALLA app — are now free of charge for supporters attending the competition, which runs from 21 December 2025 to 18 January 2026,” said CAF.

The governing body said the announcement comes amid growing global demand for Africa’s biggest football event, with more fans booking tickets.

It explained that fans need two documents, a fan identification and an e-visa, to stay in Morocco and enter football stadiums throughout the tournament.“A Fan ID is mandatory for entry to all stadiums and official Fan Areas.

Supporters can apply for both the Fan ID and e-visa in one place inside the YALLA app, streamlining travel and stadium access.

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2026 WCQ: Bassey declares Super Eagles ready for battle against Gabon

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Super Eagles defender Calvin Bassey has expressed confidence in Nigeria’s readiness ahead of their crucial semi-final clash against Gabon in the 2026 FIFA World Cup playoffs. The match takes place on Thursday in Rabat, Morocco, against Éric Chelle’s Panthers.

The Super Eagles overcame a slow start in the qualifiers to secure their place in the playoffs, and Bassey says the squad is now fully focused on achieving victory.

“I think we started very slow, but hope has been restored. We just have to make sure that we keep going and take the game as it comes. We are Nigeria, a massive nation, and we know there is a lot of expectation and responsibility,” Bassey told Sporty TV.

The encounter, which carries high stakes for both teams, is scheduled to kick off at 5:00 p.m. Nigerian time. Analysts expect a tightly contested match, as Gabon, led by Chelle, have also shown resilience in the qualifiers.

With strong backing from Nigerian supporters both at home and in Morocco, the Super Eagles are aiming to continue their impressive run and book a place in the final stage of the World Cup playoffs. Bassey emphasized that the team is focused on maintaining composure and executing their game plan effectively under the high-pressure environment.

“We understand the expectations of our nation, and the unity and support from our fans give us an extra boost. It’s time to show the world the quality of Nigerian football,” Bassey added.

Tonight’s match is poised to be a defining moment for Nigeria’s World Cup campaign, with both teams vying for a place in the final and a step closer to qualification.

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JUST IN: Falconets defeat Ghana in WAFU B opener

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Nigeria’s Falconets began their WAFU B Women’s Cup campaign on a winning note, defeating Ghana’s Black Princesses 3–1 in their opening match on Saturday.

Janet Akeremkowei was the standout performer, scoring twice for Nigeria, while Favour Nkwocha added a third goal to seal the victory.

Akeremkowei opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 40th minute, setting the tone for a dominant display by the Falconets against their West African rivals.

The win places Nigeria in a strong position as they aim to progress from the group stage and contend for the regional title.

Both teams are expected to return to action later in the week as the tournament continues.

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