Dino SC star boys making waves at Viareggio Cup in Italy

The contingent of Dino Sporting Club currently jostling for honors and glories at the prestigious 74th Viareggio Cup in Italy are creating notable impressions, crafting a tournament filled with remarkable performances.

The squad, consisting of David Ede, Christian Nwachukwu, Pascal Okoli, Okoro Hyacinth, Stephen Ende, Ikechukwu Friday, and Amos Adzuu, proudly represents Alex Transfiguration F.A (ATFA). 

Six of these talented players have played pivotal roles, propelling the team to the quarterfinals.

Under the guidance of Dino Sporting Club Head Coach Godwin Gibson, ATFA boasts a strong lineup captained by Ogonna Okoro Hyacinth. 

Ogonna Hyacinth showcased his goal-scoring prowess against Honved Budapest of Hungary on Tuesday.

The team's journey in the preliminary round comprised three intense matches, securing a victory, a draw, and experiencing one defeat. Notably, they triumphed over RUKH L-VIV of Ukraine in the round of 16.

Now in its 74th edition, the Viareggio Cup stands as a premier tournament for young talents, providing a platform for scouts from top football clubs to identify emerging stars.

Viareggio Cup: Agada's hat trick inspires Mavlon FC to dump out Florentina

 

Charles Agada continued his fine form at the Viareggio Cup tournament as he registered hat trick to help Mavlon FC saw off Fiorentina 3-2 winner on Tuesday. 

The talented 17 year old Agada got the better of Fiorentina defense to open the score sheet with five minutes to end first half. 

He scored his brace in the 65th minute, but any thought of Mavlon being in a cruise control in the game was not seen, as Fiorentina clawed back with a goal in the 71st minute from Maiorana.

The Italians piled more pressure and were rewarded with an equaliser in the 90th minute to the excitement of football fans.

The game had the signature of a very round 16 tough knockout fixture and when both teams were thinking of extra time and possible lottery of penalties, Agada, who was configured to score goals scored the heart- breaking goal two minutes into stoppage time to seal a quarter- final passage for marvellous Mavlon FC.

The young striker, who is also the captain of his team, has now scored seven goals in four games at the ongoing Viareggio Cup to make him the leading top scorer at this year’s edition.

Excitement, glee as inaugural Osun School Sports Governor's Cup set for kick-off

 

As part of the overarching drive to put Osun State ahead of the curve in sports development through talent discovery and add a new dimension to sports development niche in the state, the maiden edition of the state School Sports Governor's Cup.

Ataoja School Of Science, Osogbo and  Orolu Commercial High School, Ifon Osun will square things up in the official kick-off billed for 10am on Tuesday at Ataoja Sports Complex, Osogbo.

The football tournament which is being sponsored by Peculiar Ultimate Concern Limited in collaboration with School's Sports Foundation, is meant to mainstream talent discovery in schools and designed for secondary school students participation to be hosted by the six(6) geopolitical zones of Osogbo, Ede, Ikirun, Iwo, Ife and Ilesha.

Kola Adewusi, Osun State Deputy Governor- Commissioner for Sports, and Osun State Commissioner for Education, Dipo Eluwole, are the guests of honour.

 

Speaking at the press briefing by the organizers of the competition, Coach Yomi Elijah and Alhaji Olayiwola Olafiranye of School Sports Foundation, said: "The competition will commence on Tuesday and its billed to run for two(2) weeks, subsequently it will be a state-wide annual event that will involve representatives from each of the local governments of the six(6) geopolitical zones. It will co-opt the students, principals and other sports stakeholders from each zone across the state. 

"Osun State is richly blessed with a pool of talents that are waiting to be taped and the best way to go about this is discovering them from schools. This competition is modeled along that of Principals' Cup, but with added touch to it. It will among others reduce youths involvement in delinquency and other social vices. 

"Rewards will be handed out to all participating schools and six(6) top teams will qualify from the zones to the quarter finals, while two(2) best losers will be picked to complete eight(8) teams on the quarter finals. Also, logistics will be provided to all the participating schools accordingly."

The Director of Coaching at Osun State Sports council, Ademola Daini, who was full of ecstasy and joy intoned; "The governor has approved feeders teams for the state's football clubs and other sports across the state. This School Sports Governors Cup will solidify and straighten the synergy to produce budding talents for these feeders teams. We are deeply grateful to the sponsors and organizers of this wonderful competition."

Meanwhile, the zonal qualifiers are to be hosted across the six(6) zones as thus:

Osogbo Zone—Ataoja School Of Science, Osogbo

Ede Zone—Ede High School, Ede.

Iwo Zone—Oluwo Stadium, Iwo

Ife Zone—Ife Anglican Grammar School, Ile-Ife

Ikirun Zone—Odo-Otin Grammar School, Okuku

Ilesha Zone— Ilesha Grammar School, Ilesha

Osogbo will host the knockout rounds and the grand finale.

AFCON 2023: Osun FA appeals to Governor Adeleke to honour Super Eagles' Ajayi, Baruwa

 

Following Nigeria's African Cup of Nations exploits at the 34th edition in Ivory Coast, the Osun State Government has been urged to honour Super Eagles rock-solid defender Semi Ajayi (MON) and Goalkeeper Trainer Tunji Baruwa (MON).

The Osun State born duo helped Nigeria to claim the silver medal after losing 2-1 to host Ivory Coast in the AFCON final at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium in Abidjan on February 11.

Sola Fanawopo, Osun State Football Association egg-head made the passionate appeal to the State number one Sports Fan- Governor His Excellency Senator Ademola Adeleke, who passion for football and reward for sporting excellence knows no bounds.

"Congratulations to both Ajayi and Baruwa for making Nigerians and indeed indigenes of Osun State proud, and not forgetting the state community (Ejigbo) in Abidjan. 

"Amazing for the duo who also received national awards (Member of the Order of Niger- MON) from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, plus other goodies.

"The Osun State football family is calling on our Governor to extend it's kind gesture by celebrating both Ajayi and Baruwa.

"Ajayi was rock-solid, partnering Troost-Ekong in Nigeria's defence and scored a superb goal against Cameroon, which ended up been ruled out by the Video Assistant Referee (VAR). That effort galvanized the team and at the end the Super Eagles brushed aside the Indomitable Lions 2-0.

"Also, as Nigerians celebrated Stanley Nwabali, who was arguably one of Super Eagles best players enroute the final, credit must go to his trainer, Baruwa whose daily goalkeeping routine with him (Nwabali), had the Chippa United shot stopper bring out his best during Super Eagles matches with good composure and breath taking saves, which kept fans on the edge of their seats at the stadium, viewing centers and living rooms.

"Baruwa's halftime pep talks with Nwabali, spurred him to win the Man of the Match award in Nigeria's victory over South Africa in the semi-final of the  AFCON after saving two penalties to send the Super Eagles into the final.

"Just as Governor Adeleke celebrated Super Falcons' duo of Rasheedat Ajibade and Rofiat Imuran after Nigeria's brilliant outing in the FIFA Women's World Cup in Australia and New Zealand and D'Tigress star Olawuyi Adenike Olayemi for making Nigeria proud as part of the team that won the 2023 FIBA Women's Afrobasket title, we at the Osun FA are appealing to His Excellency to honour the Super Eagles duo.

"The Osun FA is also appealing to the State Deputy Governor-cum-Commisaioner for Sports and Youth Development Kola Olawusi to use his good office to persuade Governor Adeleke in this regard."

Naija Footballers Forum salutes Ojo Olorunleke on AFCON 2023, MON honors feat

 

Naija Footballers Forum, NFF a whatsapp football group has congratulated Super Eagles goalkeeper, Ojo Olorunleke, MON on his silver winning feat with the Nigeria Super Eagles team at the just concluded Africa Cup of Nations, AFCON in Cote d’Ivoire.

According to a release signed by the convener of the group, Gbenga Adeleye and made available by the coordinator, Joan Iwuchukwu, the group rejoice with Olorunleke as the only Nigeria Premier League Football (NPFL) player in the Eagles team.

"Olorunleke inclusion in the Super Eagles as the only NPFL player has justified the league can not be neglected when it comes to selecting players for the national team.

"We are very proud of your achievement. 

"You have extremely made us (NFF) proud and we have thought to praise your victory despite finishing second. Olorunleke, you are a real winner.

"Continuously have confident in yourself and have the fearlessness to win any game that comes your direction."

"Bravo! Your hard work has paid off. Congratulations."

The Enyimba Int'l of Aba safe  hands was alongside his Super Eagles team mate were conferred with the  Member of the Order Niger, M.O.N and also a flat and plot of land in Abuja by President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday.

Hon. Wemi Jones hosts Ojo Olorunleke on AFCON 2023 success, reiterates Kogi State Government's commitment in all round development of a child

 

Kogi State Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Honorable Wemi Jones has again re emphasized the desire of Kogi State Government to develop a school child in all ramifications in including engaging them in sporting activities.

Hon. Jones stated this on Friday when he received Ojo Olorunleke MON one of the members of Nigeria's Super Eagles team who finished second at the just concluded Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament held in Cote d'Ivoire.

The amiable Commissioner who expressed delight to receive the goalkeeper along with his family and friends noted Olorunleke's feat with the Super Eagles was a reassurance for the government to do more in school sports.

He disclosed that the administration of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo will continue to encourage a child to grow with quality in all positive areas of life endeavors. 

While appreciating Olorunleke for his humility and dedication, Hon. Jones promised that the ministry will be ready to collaborate with individuals or corporate bodies to promote school sports in the state. 

Earlier, Ojo Olorunleke informed Honorable Commissioner that the visit was to identify with him as proud son of the state. 

Olorunleke who is also from same Ayede, Bunu in Kabba-Bunu LGA of Kogi State as Hon. Jones intimated the Commissioner of his plan to organize football tournament later in the year as a way of giving back to the society and discovering talents footballers like him.

He used the occasion to solicite the support of the Commissioner to revive both Principal's Cup and Governor's Cup tournaments that had given him platform to develope in the state. 

The Enyimba captain thanked Hon. Jones for the warm reception and prayed just as he promised to be good ambassador of Bunu and Kogi State. 

Highlights of the visits was presentations of medals and natural award to Honorable Commissioner as well as donation of Textbooks to the highly rated goalkeeper.

Viareggio Cup: Free scoring Agada inspires Mavlon FC to back to back win over Jovenes Promesas

 

Red- hot Nigerian teenage striker, Charles Agada is leading the goal scoring chart of the 2024 Viareggio Cup with four goals in two games, reports www.totorinews.com. 

The unstoppable striker was too lethal in the colours of Mavlon FC in the 2-1 victory of Jovenes Promesas in the match day two of the on- going Viareggio Cup tournament in Italy.

Mavlon FC approached the game with strong intention to subdue Jovenes Promesas from the blast of the whistle and the attacking due of Ephraim Elisha and Charles Agada were in a razor - like partnership to pummel their opponents with goals.

The attacking forays into their opponents' vital area paid off when Agada collected a lose ball inside the box and clinically fired into the net to give Mavlon the advantage.

The goal deficit brought out a fighting spirit from Jovenes Promesas players, as they went in search of equaliser, which they eventually got after a defender of Mavlon handled the ball inside the box and the referee pointed into the box.

Friday James in goal for Mavlon FC failed to stop the resultant kick, as both teams went into the break all squared.

The second half completely belonged to Mavlon FC. The teenage team from Nigeria totally dominated their opponents to the admiration of fans and they sealed the victory when Agada collected a pass from Simon Karshe and dispatched two defenders before hitting the ball with his left foot to restore the advantage again for his club till the end of the game.

Agada had earlier scored two goals in their first game against Avellino FC, which ended 4-1 in favour of the Nigerian side.

Viareggio Cup: Elisha, Agada inspire Mavlon to record big win over Avelino

Mavlon FC duo of Ephraim Elisha and Charles Agada stole the show on Tuesday as they registered brace each in the 4-1 win over Avellino FC at Viareggio Cup.

Elisha combined beautifully well with Agada as they went in search of early goal and it came when Agada was hacked down inside the box and Elisha converted from the spot, but Noah Mutanda restored parity for the Italian side 1-1.

Mavlon went ahead again through Elisha as the Nigerian side went into the break with a 2-1 advantage.

On resumption, Avellino FC went in search of an equaliser, but failed in their attempts, as Charles Agada punished the young Italians after pouncing on a loose ball in the box to hit it into net.

The game went beyond the reach of Avellino when Agada, a member of 2023 Golden Eaglets of Nigeria team to AFCON U-17 tournament in Algeria, hit a low drive to make it goal number four for Mavlon FC.

90 minutes witnessed football supremacy from Mavlon FC against an Italian team that is very formidable the U-19 tournaments in Italy. It was indeed a master - class performance from Mavlon FC.

Mavlon FC will trade tackles against Jovenes Promesas in the next game on Thursday at the on- going Viareggio Cup in Italy.

Mavlon defeated Jovenes Promesas 3-0 at the last edition of Viareggio Cup in 2023.

Sportdotcom Limited Unveils Successful "Let’s Do It Again" Campaign, Celebrating Super Eagles Spirit and Community Unity

 

Sportdotcom Limited, in collaboration with the Nigeria Football Federation, is proud to announce the triumphant culmination of the "Let’s Do It Again" campaign, an initiative designed to reignite the passion and support of Super Eagles fans and football enthusiasts across Nigeria.

Toyosi Oyetunji, Senior Partner of Sportdotcom Limited, emphasized, "The 'Let's Do It Again' campaign is a call to make Nigerians believe in the Super Eagles once more. 

"Our objective is to revive the nostalgic enthusiasm for Nigerian football, engaging both the young and the old, with a particular focus on the Gen Z demographic.

Let's do it again

"Embracing a vision of inclusivity, the campaign seeks to evoke nostalgia and reignite the enthusiasm of both old and young fans, with a particular focus on engaging GenZ audiences."

To amplify this message, Sportdotcom engaged a plethora of influencers and celebrities, including Frank Edoho, Tomike, Mr. Macaroni, Falz, Timi Dakolo, Kiekie, Iyabo Ojo, Layi Wasabi, Do2dtun, Pst.Jimmy and more, to galvanize support and convey the message that every Nigerian is an integral part of the Super Eagles' journey.

The campaign launch, held on November 17, 2023, in Lagos, was a resounding success, marking the beginning of a series of strategic partnerships with Empire Music, Bet9ja, and TikTok West Africa. 

Noteworthy achievements included the creation of an official theme song and music video, as well as a poignant spoken word video aimed at inspiring the national team.In a heartfelt gesture, a farewell dinner was organized for the boys, generously supported by the Lagos State Government. 

Additionally, an online global merchandise store was launched, offering fans a chance to engage with the campaign on a broader scale.

Sportdotcom's innovative content creation, in collaboration with the players, revolutionized the narrative surrounding the Super Eagles, dispelling doubts and injecting fresh energy into Nigerian football culture.

Toyosi Oyetunji expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support received throughout the campaign, most especially from Nigeria Football Federation ( NFF ) for the opportunity, immense support received from the Minister of Sport Mr John Enoh and the Lagos State Government - emphasizing the enduring impact of unity and collective belief in achieving remarkable feats. 

As the Super Eagles continue to soar, Sportdotcom remains committed to championing the spirit of togetherness and celebration within Nigeria's football community.

Mavlon departs Lagos for Viareggio Cup in Italy

 

Modest Nigerian club, Mavlon FC have departed the shores of Lagos, Nigeria for this year's edition of Viareggio Cup in Italy, www.totorinews.com reports.

 

The Nationwide League One (NLO), side parades very exciting young talented footballers, some have represented the age - grade teams of Nigeria at international tournaments.

The team participated at last year's Viareggio Cup where they shone brightly to the delight of football stakeholders, especially football scouts in Italy and Europe.

Speaking to www.totorinews.com before the team departed, Muyiwa Showole, the chief coach of the team, disclosed that the experience gained after participating in 2023 Viareggio Cup will be useful in navigating their opponents this time around.

"We thank the management of Mavlon FC for another great opportunity to participate at this year’s Viareggio Cup. We learnt a lot last year and we hope to do better this tournament after what we gained last year," Showole said.

AFCON 2023: House Committee on Sports Chairman Hon. Ekene Adams hails Super Eagles for securing final berth with Ivory Coast

Chairman House Committee on Sports Honourable Ekene Adams has again congratulated the Super Eagles for booking  a place in the final at the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations in Cote D'Ivoire 

The Super Eagles defeated South Africa Bafana Bafana 4-2 in a pulsating encounter on penalties after a one-all draw in regulation and extra time of the first semi-final in Bouake.

According to Honourable Ekene the Super Eagles have shown great character and determination to be in the final with the quality of play from the group stage to the semi-final.

"I want to congratulate the Super Eagles for another milestone at the ongoing 34th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations because achieving this feat is not an easy task and it is worthy of note that the entire nation is proud  of them."

"As a Committee, we will continue to give necessary support to the team as they prepare for the final stage of the tournament, and as the Speaker had earlier promised the boys will be handsomely rewarded when they return to the country," he stressed.

The Kaduna-born sports administrator stated that the Committee is backing the team to bring back the cup to Nigeria as a repeat of what happened in 2013, charging the players and backroom staff not to relent in their effort to get the job done in the final on Sunday in Abidjan against host Ivory coast.

"He's the pride of Nigerian volleyball", Hon Daunemigha hails Maj. Gen. Gagariga's giant strides in grassroots volleyball development

 

South-South Representative in the board of Nigeria Volleyball Federation (NVBF), Hon Famous Daunemigha, has commended Major General Taritimiye Gagariga (RTD) for developing grassroots volleyball in the country.

Hon. Daunemigha gave the commendation during the Yenagoa Invitational Volleyball Challenge 2024 in Bayelsa State.

He said the Invitational Volleyball Challenge organised by Maj Gen Gagariga is a positive development in the country’s volleyball.

“The facts speak for themselves; Major General Taritimiye Gagariga (RTD) is the pride of Nigerian volleyball development because he has invested heavily in the grassroots 

“From what I am seeing in the Yenagoa Invitational Volleyball Challenge, the whole country is well represented in Bayelsa State. The Challenge has given the young volleyball players the opportunity to showcase their talents

“I will not be surprised to see most of the players here playing topflight volleyball in the Nigeria Premier League, National Division 1 and 2 Volleyball Leagues.”

Hon Famous Daunemigha praised Bayelsa State Governor, Sen Douye Diri for supporting the Volleyball Challenge.

He said, “The Governor has once again demonstrated his love for sports by supporting this volleyball challenge. He supported the Challenge with Appearance Grants which went a long way in assisting the teams with logistics.

“The people of Bayelsa and South South should expect more volleyball competition in the second quarter of the year.”

House Committee on Sports congratulate Nigerians on Super Eagles' AFCON Semifinal berth

 

 ... As Speaker Tajudeen Abbas pledges handsome rewards to players

The chairman house committee on Sports Honourable Ekene Adams has congratulated the Super Eagles for booking a place in the semi final of the Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast.

The Super Eagles defeated Angola one nil at the Felix Houphouet-Boigny stadium in Abidjan on Friday to reach the last four of the tournament.

A first half goal by Ademola Lookman was all the Eagles needed to secure the win.

Honourable Adams said the boys deserved all the praise with the way they have approached the tournament.

He said "I am particularly so happy for the boys and I think they deserve all the support and encouragement at this point to eventually come back home with the trophy."

"These boys have really done us well and their victory against Angola has further sent a message of strong unity despite the challenges the country is facing," he said.

"I want to also specially send the greetings of the Speaker of the House of Representatives Hon. Tajudeen Abbas to the boys because he is also very  proud of them and their resilient performance."

"The Speaker wants to assure the boys that they will be handsomely rewarded if they bring home the trophy".

Ade Oguns: 36 Lion product joins Moroccan giants, Wydad Casablanca from Caracas

 

Moroccan giants Wydad Athletic Club have completed the signing of Ade "Wedingo" Oguns from Venezuelan side Caracas on a six-month loan deal.

After a lot of speculation surrounding Wedingo's future at the Los Rojos del Ávila a deal between the 22-year-old and the Red Horses was confirmed by 36 Lion President Hajj Gafar Liameed via Social Media on Thursday night. 

The 22-time Botola Pro 1 winners have the option to make the deal permanent at the end of the current campaign.

The contract was signed in Casablanca in the presence of Wydad President Abdelmajid Bernaki, the player, Hajj Gafar and Diamond Sports Management Limited CEO Cem Sagar.

Wedingo who represented Benin Republic at youth level is still eligible to play for Nigeria at senior cadre.

The winger scored 13 goals and provided 7 assists in 34 matches across all competitions for Caracas in 2023.

The youngster, born on 14/4/2001 started his football education at Salenko FC in Iwaya. Having played until the U10 squad, he continued his journey at 36 Lion Football Club where his game was polished by Baba Arigo and Hajj Gafar for that transition into professional football, where he got to unlock high potential catching attention of many clubs abroad, finally being transferred to Caracas in January 2021.

Despite being right footed, Wedingo starts as left winger, but due to characteristics and adaptability, he can also perform as striker or as right winger, being a quality and versatile attacker. He stands out due to his tendency to verticality, unpredictability, pace and ability to create imbalances.

Knowing his attributes, Wedingo is the kind of player that prefers to play into open spaces and high tempo matches rather than possession based football and tight spaces, having great capacity to progress forward either with carries or passing. 

He understands the game well, and has a great repertory of movements. He attacks spaces well behind rivals back, providing a direct alternative for his team when facing a high pressing block. 

He is also clever inside the penalty area, being aware of where rivals are in order to lose markers and find interesting spots. In that sense, he is not a player that comes to support midfield and help in the build up phase, but his presence staying wide and operating in the last third has great value for his team, fixing the defensive block, creating spaces and managing to get overloads and numerical superiority in the attacking phase. 

Wedingo joins Hamdou El Houni, Jamal Harkass, Zakaria Draoui, Montasser Lahtimi and Ayoub Boucheta as latest arrivals at Wydad.

TCC League: Hyacinth Ogonna's hat trick inspires Dino to comeback win over Gbagada

 

In a remarkable display of resilience, Dino Sporting Club extended their impressive streak with yet another comeback triumph, defeating hosts Gbagada FC on Sunday. 

Coming off a commanding 5-1 victory against Iganmu Tigers in the Cup, the squad, under the guidance of Godwin Gibson, showcased unwavering determination by netting three goals in the second half to secure a 3-2 win.

Despite trailing 1-0 at halftime and facing an additional goal post-resumption, Gbagada FC, Dino's opponent, witnessed a remarkable turnaround orchestrated by talisman Ogonna Hyacinth, who delivered a flawless hat-trick. 

This triumphant performance propels Dino Sporting Club to the second position on the table, now trailing leaders Beyond Limits by a margin of four points.