Sports
Women W’Cup: History as African trio hit last 16
With the group stage matches of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup concluded on Thursday, the Super Falcons of Nigeria, Banyana Banyana of South Africa, and the Atlas Lionesses of Morocco gave Africa a historic three-placement in the next stage of the tournament.
This is the first time in history that three African countries have made it to the last 16 of any FIFA World Cup competition at the same time.
It was reported on Monday that the Super Falcons played a nail-biting goalless draw against the Republic of Ireland to advance to the knockout stage. Nigeria prior to that, defeated co-hosts Australia 3-2 in a thrilling encounter after playing out a goalless draw against the much fancied Olympic champions, Canada, to qualify for the round of 16, finishing second in the Group B table, ending the group stage undefeated.
After losing 6-0 to Germany on July 24, Morocco fought back on Sunday with a 1-0 win against South Korea. In a thrilling game on Thursday, the Atlas Lionesses defeated Colombia 1-0 to book a slot in the round of 16, finishing second in Group H.
African champions, the Banyana Banyana of South Africa, started their campaign with a 2-1 loss against their more illustrious opponents Sweden but bounced back holding Argentina in a 2-2 draw. The relentless team fought hard to secure a 3-2 win over Italy on Wednesday. South Africa finished second in Group G.
Subsequently, after England beat China 6-1 on Tuesday, it was confirmed that Nigeria would face the Lionesses in what promises to be an exciting encounter in the round of 16 on Monday.
Here are the fixtures of the teams that will be playing in the last 16;
Switzerland vs Spain (Saturday, August 5)
Netherlands vs South Africa (Sunday, August 6)
Japan vs Norway (Saturday, August 5)
Sweden vs USA (Sunday, August 6)
Australia vs Denmark (Monday, August 7)
France vs Morocco (Tuesday, August 8)
England vs Nigeria (Monday, August 7)
Columbia vs Jamaica (Tuesday, August 8)
The former National and West African light-heavyweight champion, Segun ‘Success’ Olanrewaju, has died after he collapsed during a fight in Ghana on Saturday.
Olanrewaju was competing against Ghanaian boxer Jon Mbanugu at Fight Night 15 of the Ghana Professional Boxing League at Bukom Boxing Arena when he suddenly lost consciousness.
Reports indicate that he was ahead on points before the unfortunate incident occurred..
A widely circulated video on social media captures the moment he collapsed in the ring, further shocking fans and the boxing community.
Olanrewaju, a highly respected figure in Nigerian boxing, held both National and West African light-heavyweight titles during his career.
His contributions to the sport have been widely recognized, with tributes pouring in from colleagues, fans, and sports officials who remember him for his dedication and impact on boxing in Nigeria and across West Africa.
Nigeria boosted their 2026 World Cup qualifying hopes with a 2-0 win over Rwanda on Friday night, marking a successful debut for new head coach, Eric Chelle.
Victor Osimhen, in fine form this season for Galatasaray, delivered a first-half brace to secure the victory.
The prolific striker opened the scoring with a side-footed finish from Ademola Lookman’s well-placed free-kick.
He then doubled Nigeria’s lead after winning the ball at the halfway line and chipping it over the goalkeeper.
The three-time African champions now move up to third place in Group C, following South Africa’s 2-0 win over Lesotho.
Chelle’s men will face Zimbabwe on Monday as they continue their quest for World Cup qualification.
Sports
Nigeria Set To Host ICC U-19 Men’s World Cup Qualifiers in April
Kenya, Uganda, Namibia, Tanzania and Sierra Leone will join Nigeria to jostle for the continent’s sole ticket to the 2026 ICC Under 19 Men’s World Cup.
The Nigeria Cricket Federation (NCF), said it is ready to host five other nations for the International Cricket Council (ICC) Under 19 Men’s World Cup African Qualifier.
The tournament is billed for Lagos, with the matches to be held at the cricket ovals at the Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS) and the University of Lagos (UNILAG) from March 26th – 6th April.
VON reported that the President of the federation, Uyi Akpata, said in a statement that the tournament is about celebrating the growth of the game on the continent. Nigeria is thrilled to welcome these talented young cricketers and their supporters to Lagos,” Akpata said.
“Our nation is known for its warm hospitality and fascinating cricketing potential and we are committed to making this qualifier a memorable experience for all.”
“This tournament is not just about competition; it’s about celebrating the growth of cricket in Africa and inspiring the next generation of players.”
Kenya, Uganda, Namibia, Tanzania and Sierra Leone will join Nigeria to jostle for the continent’s sole ticket to the 2026 ICC Under 19 Men’s World Cup.
Meanwhile, Nigeria will be hoping to secure the ticket, having achieved same feat in 2019 and competing at the World Cup in South Africa 2020.
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