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Shola Ameobi delighted with Nigeria debut

Shola Ameobi is still celebrating his international debut for Nigeria in the 3-1 win against Venezuela in Florida on Thursday.

The player who was thrown into the fray in the second-half by Coach Stephen was pleased to have made the step up to international football.

"It's my first game, I just feel honoured to play international football."

Ameobi earned special praises from fans and officials after helping set-up the third goal. He calmly held-up play before finding Lazio youngster Onazi Ogenyi, who completed the scoring in stoppage time.

The 31-year-old insists he has nothing but respect for his team-mates.

“This game will prepare us for what to expect at the Nations Cup. We played good and made life hard for them," he said.

"It was nothing personal, we fought hard and gave our everything.

"They had great support here but we took the game to them. The lads were superb and I'm delighted to have contributed to a good win." He also said.

Martins Vows To Up His Game, Onazi Vows Afcon Spot

Levante of Spain striker, Obafemi Martins may not have impressed or even scored in the friendly against Venezuela, but he’s thinking of doing that when he returns to the team soonest, even as Head Coach Stephen Keshi assured that he would be given a second chance when camp opens for the Afcon 2013 preparations.

Martins said after the game that he wanted to score on the night but the goals simply did not come.

“But I will be back and better when we return to camp, I know what I can do and I’m sure the coach will give me the opportunity to prove myself.’’

Also speaking, Lazio of Italy midfield sensation Ogenyi Onazi, who scored the team’s third goal, has vowed to grab a shirt ahead of the Nations Cup.

“I’m happy at the manner the coach has been given me opportunity and I can assure Nigerians that I will be part of the team that will bring the Nations Cup to the country next year”, the former My People FC star declared.

Eagles Nations Cup Camp Open Dec 17, Pros Get January 4 Deadline

December 17, has tentatively been chosen as the day camp will open in Abuja to kick-start preparations for the Nations Cup in South Africa. Keshi said in Miami, that the camp will open with home based professional players, while their foreign based counterparts are expected to join up with the rest of the squad in Faro, Portugal between January 3 -4.

“We need to work together for at least two weeks and after that we should have a strong squad that can challenge any team in the world that is why we want everybody in camp by January 4th at the latest.”

Keshi is presently holidaying with his family in the United States and returns to the country in the second week of December.  Meanwhile the Super Eagles are scheduled to return to the country on Friday evening through the Murtala Mohammed Airport, Lagos via Delta Airlines

Igiebor’s Wonder Goal Excites Keshi

Super Eagles Head Coach, Stephen Keshi was in his boisterous best at the end of the friendly encounter between his team and the Venezuelan national team, which was won 3-1, by the Nigerians.

Speaking at the post match conference, Keshi said he was simply excited by the performance of his players especially the newcomers to the team.

“But look at that goal by Nosa Igiebor, it was a television goal and I was excited when it came, it shows we can do great things if we psyche ourselves up very well.”

At half time, I told them, put the ball on the ground and play quick and the goals will come and I was not surprised that once they did that the goals started to come. Like I will always say, its still work in progress and we can only get better”, he said.

Keshi warns Martins

Obafemi Martins’ Africa Nations Cup hopes may end up as a dream if he doesn’t step up his game, Super Eagles chief coach Stephen Keshi has told him.

The Levante striker Martins made a long-awaited return to the national team on Thursday in the Super Eagles 3-1 win over Venezuela in an AFCON warm-up in Miami, Florida, USA but the tactician wasn’t impressed with his form and charged him to improve as he did not see his full potentials in the match.

The below par Martins and was replaced on the hour by his former Newcastle teammate Shola Ameobi, who was making his debut for Nigeria.

“He needs to step up his game because I know he can do better than he did because he has the potentials but I did not see much of him,” said Keshi after the game.

‘Obagoal’ shone in training in the USA, but had at least two chances to make hay against Venezuela so as to stake a strong claim for a place in the Eagles squad to next year’s Nations Cup in South Africa. 

Keshi praise for Ameobi

The Chief Coach of the Super Eagles has showered glowing tributes to the sterling performance of Shola Ameobi who made his debut for Nigeria in an international friendly against Venezuela in Miami, Florida Wednesday night.

The Newcastle forward who came on as a second half substitute was a handful for the opponents’ defence as he was kicked repeatedly because of his tenacity, which later paid off at stoppage time, when he held unto the ball, warded off a challenge in the Venezuelan vital area before finding Ogayi Onazi who coolly slotted home Nigerians third on the night.

An ecstatic Keshi said that the towering forward impressed him and can only improve.

“I am totally happy with Shola Ameobi. He showed good spirits and composure all through his stay on the pitch and I know that he will improve as he gets to play more games for us. He was a true professional on the night.”

Ideye happy to break goal-duck

One of the two Super Eagles players who scored their first senior goals for Nigeria, Brown Ideye is very excited ending his goal drought as the team hit Venezuela 3-1 in Miami, Florida Wednesday night in an international friendly match.

‘I am so happy to finally score for my country. It’s no doubt a morale booster for me, having waited this long to register myself in the heart of Nigerians. Grateful for the pass from my team mates to.”

The Dinamo Kiev of Ukraine forward opened Nigeria’s floodgate in the 49th minute with a side-footed touch off a low cross from the right by debutant Solomon Kwambe after some good work by Nosa Igiebor.

“I will cherish this moment for a long time because it’s always special scoring your firs. I really waited for this to happen and now that it has, I can only get better with my positioning and accuracy which are most important for goal scoring.” Ideye added.

Ameobi dreams Nations Cup

New Eagles invitee, Shola Ameobi could be on the flight to next year’s AFCON on the back of a good outing against Venezuela on Wednesday.

Ameobi will be making his debut for the Eagles, while Martins is set for his 38th appearance.

The 31-year-old Ameobi has opted to feature for his country of birth after he represented England at U21 level.

The Newcastle United striker said it is a great honour to wear the Nigeria green and white shirt.

"This is the first opportunity to do something that I've always wanted to do. It's a great honour and I don't take it lightly,” said the Zaria-born striker.

 

"You'd be a fool if you didn't want to play at the very highest level and certainly I'm no fool. I want to play at the top as every other player does - that's what drives me and that's why I'm still here wanting to play in the Premier League.

"I want to do the best I can, I don't just want to be a local hero, I want to be an international one. That's what has driven the decision."

Chelsea boss backs Mikel over Clatten-bust

Chelsea chairman Bruce Buck says his club had no choice but to pursue a claim of racial abuse after he three times reportedly asked the players involved "if they might have heard 'Mikel' instead of 'monkey'" from referee Mark Clattenburg.

Buck told the London Evening Standard that Chelsea was obliged to report to the Football Association once that was denied. The players involved are believed to be black midfielders John Obi Mikel and Ramires.

Buck says "the reaction has been very unfair" as "I felt we had the moral high ground," adding if the club had done nothing then "if that had leaked out, we would've really been crucified."

Buck says Chelsea they are not being "hypocritical" despite backing captain John Terry when he served a ban for racially abusing an opponent.

CAF appoints Ivorian officials for Eaglets, Mali

Match referees for Sunday’s 2013 African U-17 Championship qualifying match between Nigeria and Mali at the U. J. Esuene Stadium, Calabar will come from Cote d’Ivoire.

The Confederation of African Football has appointed Kouame Ndri as the centre referee, with his compatriots Cherif Mamadou Bogbe, Kouadio Oussou and Denis Dembele as 1st Assistant, 2nd Assistant and 4^th Official respectively.

CAF also appointed Benoit Zianga as the match commissioner.

On Tuesday, the Nigeria Football Federation formally requested the Federation Malienne de Football to furnish it with details of its delegation’s arrival date, time and vessel as well as size of delegation.

Sunday’s match is the first leg of a final qualifying fixture, after the Eaglets dismissed Niger Republic and Guinea in earlier rounds.

Martins Vow Afcon Place

Levante new sensation, Obafemi Martins, who is styled the Weapon of Mass Destruction, has vowed to get a shirt with his performance on the pitch on Wednesday and in subsequent camping of the team.

“My return is for real and Nigerians will see”, he said. Indeed, Martins looked the sharpest among attackers in camp as he banged in goal after goal in Monday evening training.

The game will be played at the Marlins Stadium in Miami 8pm Miami time and 2am Thursday Nigerian time.

Ameobi, Dike Celebrate Eagles Call

Newcastle United of England’s longest serving player and Nigeria’s latest acquisition, Shola Ameobi, has said he was simply delighted to be part of the Nigerian set up for the first time and hopes it turns out well on Wednesday (Thursday morning in Nigeria).

Ameobi spoke after dinner on Monday night on arrival from England.

“Its good to be here and I will learn to speak Pidgin English as the players have directed”, he joked after his former teammate at the Toons’, Obafemi Martins challenged him to start speaking in Pidgin English, which Keshi has adopted as the official language each time the team is in camp.

Also in ecstasy over his call up is Bright Dike of MLS side Portland Timbers of the United States, who was the last to join camp.

Dike said at breakfast on Tuesday morning that it was a dream come true for him to be part of the Nigerian set up, as Assistant Coach, Sylvanus Okpala tries to size up abilities to speak the Ibo language. “I understand it but don’t speak fluently, it will get better now that I will start coming to Nigeria”, he said amidst smiles.

Ejide captains Eagles against Venezuela

Gangling Israeli based goalkeeper, Austin Ejide, will step out of the shadows of his national teammate, Vincent Enyeama, on Wednesday night in Miami, United States, when he leads the team out as skipper in the international friendly against Venezuela at the Marlins Stadium in the American city.

Head Coach Stephen Keshi said after critical consideration, he has decided to hand Ejide the armband for the match. Indeed, Ejide first joined the national team from Gabros of Nnewi, in the run-up to the Korea-Japan 2002 World Cup, alongside Enyeama and the likes of Justice Christopher.

The Eagles number one jersey has since been alternated between the duo, with Enyeama having the lion’s share, but Wednesday’s game will be another opportunity for Ejide to lay claim to the Eagles number one shirt.

Eguavoen set to be unveiled in Port Harcourt

Former Super Eagles captain and chief coach, Austin Eguavoen will be unveiled this week in Port Harcourt as the new chief coach of Sharks FC.

The gaffer who was shown the exit door by Enyimba of Aba owing to their lethargic performance in last season’s Nigeria Premier League is expected to turn around the fortunes of the team after a not-too-impressive finish in the league last season.

The management of the club are confident that they will be able to recruit good players who will take the team back to the top of the Nigeria Premier League.

Eguavoen replaces Flying Eagles coach, John Obuh.

Sharks finished last season in the seventh position with 52 points.

Super Eagles battle Venezuela

The Nigeria Football Association has confirmed a friendly match between Nigeria's Super Eagles and Venezuela in November.

Although Nigeria have not yet qualified for the upcoming 2013 Africa Cup of Nations, the NFF has already started making arrangements for friendly matches to serve as warm-up for the Super Eagles in preparation for their expected participation in the tournament which will take place in South Africa early next year.

The Super Eagles are expected to face their Venezuelan counterparts on November 14 at the Marlins Park Stadium in Miami in the United States.

Spokesman for the NFA, Ademola Olajire, confirmed the fixture and stated that the match is a great opportunity for the Super Eagles to test themselves against one of the toughest teams from South America.

He however admitted the most important thing for now is the upcoming encounter with Liberia, as qualification for the Nations Cup will increase the turnout of fans in the date with Venezuela. "We need to qualify for South Africa and ensure Nigerians in the United States come out to 'happily' support their beloved side."

Nigeria head into their final qualifying match against Liberia locked in a 2-2 aggregate score from the first leg in Monrovia. The Super Eagles will have to overcome their opponents to not only guarantee their participation in the forthcoming showpiece, but also to salvage their dying reputation and regain the confidence of their fans

Coach Stephen Keshi has already invited 22 home-based players to camp on Sunday ahead of next week's clash with Liberia in Calabar.

Keshi begs player not to dump Nigeria

Stephen Keshi has asked John Chibuike to be patient and not consider taking up a chance to feature for Sweden.

Rosenborg of Norway star Chibuike has revealed his frustration that he continues to be overlooked by Nigeria and has even now said he would opt for Sweden if approached again.

"After this season, I will look into the matter of my international future, everything for now is still rumour, but I can't resist the opportunity of playing at Brazil 2014 World Cup. If Sweden come, I may have to consider the offer," he revealed.

However, Keshi has said the former Enugu Rangers star is very much in his plans.

“I know of Chibuike in Rosenborg of Norway and I have even spoken to him, telling him his time will come and he will be here with us,” Keshi said.

On the back of impressive displays for BK Hacken in Sweden, the former Enugu Rangers ace caught the eye of several European clubs including one from England before he eventually chose Rosenborg, who feature in this season’s UEFA Europa League.

The 23-year-old who started his career as defender at Rangers, before he was converted to an attacking midfielder at Hacken and now he is a striker for Rosenborg. 

Nsofor dreams Eagles return

Obinna Nsofor has admitted he was disappointed not to be recalled by the Super Eagles but he still believes he has a future with the team.

“I am sad because I want to play for my country every time, but I bear no grudges against anyone.” Nsofor said

 

“I am not the only player who was not called so I am sure there is another time for me to return. I have never seen myself not part of the team even when I am not called, so I am always in touch with the team. I am still a Super Eagles player.”

 

The Lokomotiv Moscow forward last featured for Nigeria in a friendly against Ghana in London in October.

Nsofor will back Nigeria to beat Liberia on October 13 in Calabar to qualify for the 2013 Africa cup of Nations to be staged by South Africa.

“I see us beating Liberia in Calabar. We have all it takes to beat them but the players who are selected for the game should take it with all seriousness because Liberia too will want to win but I don’t see us losing the game.

 

“We want to be at the next Nations Cup after missing out on the last edition. I am wishing the team victory in the game.”

Victor Moses becomes dad

This is surely a great moment for the new Chelsea boy!

Two days after scoring his debut goal for Chelsea against Wolverhampton Wanderers in the League Cup, Victor Moses has announced that his spouse, Brentley has just given birth to his first baby @ 21-years-old.

Moses broke the news today to his more than 45,000 Twitter followers, through his account, expressing delight at his status.

“I am really proud to announce I’m now a dad! Brentley Moses born this morning 3.960kg all healthy thank God! fanx 4 ur support” he tweeted.

The former Wigan attacker, who only completed his dream move to Chelsea this summer for nine million pounds, has also been impressive for his London team.

On Tuesday evening, he was handed his first start at Chelsea in a Capital One League Cup game with Wolverhampton. He rewarded his Coach, Roberto Di Matteo, with a goal for the confidence reposed in him. Chelsea won the game by 6-1.

Chelsea faces a tough test this weekend as they travel to the Emirate to play Arsenal, and it is likely that Moses will be gunning for a goal for his new daughter.

Congrats bro! Scoring both on the pitch and at home!

Efe Ambrose comfortable in new Celtic surroundings

Efe Ambrose feels he has swiftly adjusted to life at Celtic following his summer move from Israel.

The 23-year old centre-back, who joined from FC Ashdod, made his full Bhoys debut in Tuesday night’s Scottish Communities League Cup win over Raith Rovers and he believes that he has settled well into his new surroundings.

"It has not been easy because I had a short time to adapt to being in the team," he said.

"There has been no time to train with the team properly.

"But the feeling I have with them is amazing because they helped me to settle down very fast and so there was no problem.

"It is like a home for me. We are like family here. It is a good place to play football and make myself a better player.

"It is one of the biggest clubs in the world and the history behind this club is great.”

Raheem Lawal in fresh trouble

Raheem Lawal’s contract with Turkish club Adana Demirspor has been put on hold pending his clearance after he was initially declared free by FIFA.

  

It was earlier reported that Lawal has been cleared to play for the Turkish team after he Spanish club Atletico Beleares reportedly owed him.

  

The midfielder’s problems started when he honoured a Super Eagles call against the wishes of his Spanish team Atletico Beleares, who needed him for promotional playoff games, but he instead chose to feature for his country.

  

During the summer transfer, Raheem Lawal signed a lucrative two-year deal with Turkish second division side Adana Demirspor without the approval of his Spanish club.

Osanga debuts @ last, Uchebo scores...

King Osanga finally debuted for his French Ligue 1 side Sochaux on Wednesday night in a league cup game.

  

Former Heartland star Osanga started the game against Evian Thonon Gaillard and was substituted in the 66th minute by Bakambu, who scored the second goal to take the game to extra time at 2-2 at regulation time.

  

Sochaux won the cup tie 3-2.

  

Osanga has made bench for three straight games before he finally debuted for his team.

  

The 21-year-old player has played for Etoile Sportive du Sahel in Tunisia and Al-Nasr Benghazi of Libya.

  

Michael Uchebo was also on song in Belgium for Cercle Brugge when he opened scoring in the 12th minute to put his side 1-0 up against Hoogstraten in a Belgium Cup tie.

  

Cercle Brugge went on to win the game by 3-1.

  

In Norway, Daniel Chima Chukwu failed to lift his team as his goal was only a consolation one for Molde, who lost to Tromso 2-1 in the semi final of NM Cupen.

  

Chima struck in the 84th minute to reduce the deficit, while Tromso have now booked a place in the final with this victory.

Chinwendu Ihezuo Makes History with Nigeria

World Soccer governing body, FIFA has revealed that Flamingoes player, Chinwendu Ihezuo has broken the record for number of goals scored in a single match at the Fifa Under 17 Women's World Cup,

The previous record was jointly held by Germany's Kyra Malinowski and Korea Republic's Yeo Min Ji , who both scored four goals against South Africa and Nigeria respectively at the 2010 Fifa Under 17s in Trinidad and Tobago.

Chinwendu Ihezuo has surpassed the earlier record with her five strikes on 5', 32', 37',56" and 70' against host nation Azerbaijan on Tuesday.

Yeo Min Ji of Korea Republic won the golden shoe with eight goals in six games at Trinidad and Tobago 2010. Should Ihezuo score four more goals in Azerbaijan, she would set a new milestone in the competition.

Kalu Uche keeps scoring in Turkey

Kalu Uche keeps hogging the headlines in Turkey since his move to the Superlig at the close of last season.

The attacking midfield sensation scored Kasimpasa’s third goal in 3-1 win over Istanbulspor in Turkish Cup game last night.

  

Uche was on song in 89th minute. 

Akpala opens Bundesliga goal account

Two days after Victor Moses got his debut goal in Chelsea colours, Joseph Akpala scored his first goal for German Bundesliga side Werder Bremen against Freiburg last night.

  

Akpala, who joined Bremen during summer transfer window from Club Brugge of Belgium, drew his team level in the 47th minute.

  

Bremen eventually won the game 2-1 and they have now moved to seventh place on the table with seven points from five matches. 

Eagles call up thrills Lazio’s Onazi

Lazio youngster Ogenyi Onazi has said it is a dream come true to be picked by the Super Eagles.

He was a surprise call-up by Nigeria for next month’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Liberia in Calabar and he says that it has always been his dream to play for Nigeria at full international level after he featured for the country at U17 and U20 levels.

“I will say a big thank you to God because without him, nothing is possible. To play for my fatherland is what I always wanted to do and so to now get a call-up to be part of Super Eagles has excited me.

  

“And I will do my best to lift the team higher. I am sure we will be fine. I am looking forward to be in camp and train with the other member of the team, I am sure it will be great.

  

“This call up to play for Super Eagles is a dream come true for me because that has been my ultimate ambition since I started the game. It is an honour and I will use my chance well,” said Onazi, who failed to make the final cut for the 2011 FIFA U20 World Cup in Colombia.

  

This season, the Jos-born star has played three Europa League games as well as made three appearances in the league for Lazio.

  

He will be in action Wednesday evening in a Serie A game for Lazio against Napoli. 

Mikel says he's back to battle for AFCON ticket

John Obi Mikel says he is back to qualify Nigeria to the next AFCON after the Eagles missed out on the last tournament.

On Tuesday, the Chelsea midfielder was picked among 15 foreign-based pros for the return leg clash against the Lone Star of Liberia to be played on October 13 in Calabar with the overall winners advancing to the tournament proper in South Africa in January.

“I am ready to put in my best to see that we redeem ourselves by defeating Liberia to secure the AFCON ticket. Missing out of last edition still hurts and so this is a must-win game and I am ready to do battle," Mikel said.

The Eagles were held to a 2-2 draw in Monrovia by hosts Liberia earlier this month with Mikel opting out of that clash after it was first learnt that the game would be played on an astro turf pitch.

But the Chelsea midfielder has again restated his total commitment to the national team cause despite suggestions to the contrary.

"I have said it times without a number that I have no other nation apart from Nigeria and I am happy to be back in Eagles even though I have always seen myself as part of the team even when I was not playing games for the team.

Mikel, who has won 37 caps and scored two goals since his debut in 2005, has yet to play for Nigeria under Stephen Keshi, who took over from Samson Siasia in November.

In November, he was part of the squad for two friendlies against Botswana and Zambia but did not feature as he was nursing an injury then.

Martins get rave reviews

Levante midfielder Michel was impressed with Obafemi Martins’ debut against Real Sociedad and feels the striker should have been credited three goals instead of just one.

‘Eshin’ has only recently signed for Levante after canceling his contract with Russian Premier League side Rubin Kazan.

Levante were lacking in firepower upfront following the departure of main striker Arouna Kone to Wigan and fans were hoping that Martins would be an able replacement for the new season.

The 27-year-old lived up to the expectations on his debut as he scored the match-winner with a late goal.

And it could have been even more impressive as Martins had a goal disallowed for offside earlier in the game as well. Impressed by the performance, Michel stated his view that the former Newcastle striker will greatly improve the standard of the Levante attack in the new season.

“Martins was incredible, he came on at half-time and scored three goals, but they disallowed two,” Michel told Spanish daily AS.

“I hope it’s the first of many goals. He will help us a lot, he gives us speed in the attack. In the game we knew he would score one that was going to impress, and look, he did it.”

NSC begins Rio 2016 preparations after Eko 2012

The National Sports Commission (NSC) has mapped out plans to commence preparation for the Rio 2016 Olympic Games immediately after the forthcoming Eko 2012 National Sports Festival (NSF) holding in Lagos from November 29 to December 9.

According to the Media and Publicity Committee sub-committee of the Main Organising Committee (MOC) of the 18th NSF, the NSC will select experts to monitor and scout for promising and outstanding athletes during the sports festival to form the nucleus of a new Team Nigeria.

Eko 2012, the MOC said in a statement, is expected to provide exceptional athletes who would be groomed on a periodic basis every year from 2013 till the next Olympics.

“These athletes would form the core of the country’s contingent to future international sports competitions holding from next year,” the body said. “These competitions include the All Africa Games and the Commonwealth Games.”

The statement added that the NSC Chairman/Minister of Sports, Bolaji Abdullahi, has directed that “henceforth, only athletes who have shown enough will and zeal to compete in our national colours will be given consideration in the formation of a new-look Team Nigeria.

“The minister has also directed that the various sports associations must henceforth endeavour to take part in all national and international competitions available,” as that would keep the teams competitive in the build-up to the Olympics.

Meanwhile, the minister has directed that the various Sports Zones created by the NSC be empowered to scout for and develop talents in their domains, while particular attention should be paid to such sports as taekwondo, judo, wrestling, weightlifting and athletics.

Real Madrid coach Mourinho: I'll work like Sir Alex until I'm 70

Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho says he intends to match Sir Alex Ferguson's longevity.

Mourinho is good friends with the Manchester United manager.

"I understand perfectly why Alex is still at work at that age and I think I'll do the same. I love football and I love to coach. I'll still be young when I turn 50 (next January) and I have a lot ahead of me," smiled Mourinho.

"It's a number that makes me look far back, but also look ahead. I'm a happy person because I believe what I have achieved is amazing. But at the same time I look forward and I look better than ever, stronger than ever, with more experience, and I think I'm still at the beginning of my career."

NFA declares Eagles ready for Liberian demolition

As Nigerians eagerly await the October 13^th date when the Super Eagles will confront their Liberian counterpart in the last leg of the final for the 2013 Africa Nations Cup, the Nigeria Football Association has declared that it is leaving nothing to chance in its quest to ensure that the Nigerian flag is hoisted in South Africa.

Demola Olajire, image maker of the NFA disclosed that the body will ensure full motivation for the players to deliver the Nations Cup ticket.

“We will do all in our powers to make sure that we win in Calabar and qualify for the Nations Cup. The team is being motivated on all fronts to achieve this. Their winning bonus remains ten thousand dollars and we will ensure that they are in a good frame of mind before the duel.’

When reminded about how Guinea stopped Nigeria from playing at the last edition of the African football fiesta in Gabon/Equatorial Guinea the last time, Olajire beat his chest that such situation will never arise again as they are sure the players will deliver this time around.

Liberia will suffer in Calabar-Azuka

The October 13^th clash between Nigeria and Liberia is keeps generating heat with both parties spitting fire ahead of the final qualifying match for the 2013 Africa Nations Cup.

One of the players invited by Super Eagles coach, Stephen Keshi, Sunshine Stars of Akure star, Izu Azuka is very definite about the team’s chances against the Lone Star, saying it’s victory or nothing in the Canaan City next month.

‘We will leave nothing to chance in that match. Liberia will be beaten silly. Our dream is make Nigerians happy again by qualifying after missing out on the last Nations Cup. They will be thoroughly roasted” Izu boasted.

He was however quick to add that they do not expect an easy game but also said there will be no hiding place for the Liberians who forced them to a two-all draw in the first leg in Monrovia some few weeks ago.

How Gabriel Agbonlahor nailed Villa

Gabriel Agbonlahor scored his first goals since January as Aston Villa twice came from behind to knock Manchester City out of the Capital One Cup at the Etihad Stadium.

England international Agbonlahor bagged a brace against the Premier League champions to end his drought as Villa triumphed in extra-time.

Mario Balotelli and then Aleksandar Kolarov had twice put the hosts ahead while Villa old boy Gareth Barry’s helped his former team’s cause with an own-goal equaliser and Agbonlahor swept home to ensure the 90 minutes ended at two apiece.

Charles N’Zogbia scored only his third goal since his summer 2011 move from Wigan to put Villa ahead early in the additional period.

And Agbonlahor then ensured there was no way back for the hosts with his second goal, a deflected effort, seven minutes from the end.

The result and last-16 spot will be a welcome boost for Paul Lambert’s men, who had started the season in poor form and were spanked 4-1 by Southampton at the weekend.

Keshi denies pressure to invite Mikel

Super Eagles Coach Stephen Keshi has insisted he was not forced to recall John Mikel Obi to his team.

Chelsea midfielder Mikel is one of 15 foreign-based professionals called up for next month’s Africa Cup of Nations return leg qualifier against Liberia.

There has been a clamour by fans and officials alike for Mikel to return to the team, but Keshi maintained he alone took the decision to pick the player for the Liberia clash.

"I hear people say Mikel Obi was forced on me. That's not true. I speak to Mikel almost every day and he has declared his readiness to make the Liberia game,” Keshi said.

“He wants to play for his country and I hope he brings his best to the national team.”

Mikel has yet to play for the Eagles under Keshi, who replaced Samson Siasia in November.

Keshi has gone for a larger contingent of foreign-based players than previously and he said this is to ensure that Nigeria qualify for next year’s Nations Cup in South Africa.

"I increased the foreign-based players because we need all our best legs for the final game,” he defended.

“You know we have some players that must prove their fitness and as such we have enough to fill any space should it happen any of these players are not fit for the Calabar."

Kano Pillars pair of Gabriel Reuben and Papa idris as well as Joel Obi of Inter Milan have been picked after long-term injuries and Keshi said he wishes to ascertain their fitness levels.

"Gabriel Rueben and Papa Idris, I included them to ascertain their fitness level same goes for Joel Obi," he disclosed.

The 23 players from the Nigeria Premier League will resume training camp on Sunday in Abuja, while the foreign pros will join up in Calabar from October 8.

Below is the full list.

LIST OF HOME BASED PLAYERS

GOALKEEPERS

1. AGBIM CHIGOZIE                        -           WARRI WOLVES, NIGERIA

2. AKPEYI DANIEL                           -           HEARTLAND FC, NIGERIA

DEFENDERS

EGWUEKWE AZUBUIKE     -           WARRI WOLVES, NIGERIA

PAPA IDRIS                           -           KANO PILLARS, NIGERIA

OBOABONA GODFREY                  -           SUNSHINE STARS FC, NIGERIA

ZANGO UMAR                                  -           KANO PILLARS, NIGERIA

KWAMBE SOLOMON                     -           SUNSHINE STARS FC, NIGERIA

EZEKIEL BASSEY                 -           LOBI STARS FC, NIGERIA

KINGSLEY UDOH                -           HEARTLAND FC, NIGERIA

MIDFIELDERS AND FORWARDS

UZOENYI EJIKE                                -           RANGERS FC, NIGERIA

MBA SUNDAY                                  -           WARRI WOLVES FC, NIGERIA

GABRIEL REUBEN                -           KANO PILLARS FC, NIGERIA

HENRY UCHE                                   -           ENYIMBA FC, NIGERIA

CHRISTIAN OFILI                -           ABS KWARA, NIGERIA

JABASON SOLOMON                     -           AKWA UNITED FC, NIGERIA

SANUSI SANI                                    -           GOMBE UNITED FC, NIGERIA

PHILIP ASOQUO                  -           3SC FC, IBADAN, NIGERIA

IZU AZUKA                           -           SUNSHINE STARS FC, NIGERIA

BRENDON OGBU                 -           HEARTLAND FC, NIGERIA

ANTHONY OKPOTU                       -           LOBI STARS FC, NIGERIA

UBALE MANIR                                  -           KANO PILLARS FC, NIGERIA

OHANDUKU GOMO                        -           SHARKS FC, NIGERIA

FIDELIS FAVOUR                 -           NASARAWA UNITED, NIGERIA

2. LIST OF FOREIGN BASED PLAYERS

GOALKEEPERS

ENYEAMA VINCENT                       -           MACCABI TEL AVIV, ISRAEL

EJIDE AUSTINE                                 -           HAPOEL BE’ER SHEVA, ISRAEL

DEFENDERS

YOBO JOSEPH                                  -           FENERBAHCE FC, TURKEY

EFE AMBROSE                                  -           CELTIC FC, ISRAEL

ECHIEJILE ELDERSON                    -           FC BRAGA, PORTUGAL

MID FIELDERS AND FORWARDS

NOSA IGIEBOR                                 -           REAL BETIS, SPAIN

NWANKWO OBIORA                      -           CALCIO PADOVA FC, ITALY

MIKEL OBI                            -           CHELSEA FC, ENGLAND

JOEL OBI                               -           INTER MILAN FC, ITALY

VICTOR MOSES                  -           CHELSEA FC, ENGLAND

 AHMED MUSA                     -           CSKA MOSCOW, RUSSIA

 UCHE IKECHUKWU                       -           VILLARREAL FC, SPAIN

 EMENIKE EMMANUEL      -           SPARTAK MOSCOW, RUSSIA

 IDEYE BROWN                    -           DYNAMO KYIV, UKRAINE

 OGENYI ONAZI                   -           SS LAZIO, ITALY

Moses in Cloud 9

Victor Moses has declared that he is enjoying life at Chelsea after scoring his first goal for the club in last night’s 6 nil whitewash of Wolves in a League Cup match.

The Nigerian winger who joined the Blues from Wigan at the start of the season made one and scored another.

Seven minutes into the second half Oriol Romeu struck home a well-struck penalty after Moses was adjudged to have been fouled by De Vries and the impressive player headed home his first Chelsea goal and a sixth of the evening for the rampant home side.

Everything is going well at the moment, Moses tells the official Chelsea website. 'I'm enjoying life at the club. It's exciting for me to be back in London and playing for a massive club such as Chelsea, particularly as I'm a London boy, I'm just delighted to be here.

'It's a quality feeling to be playing alongside some of the most talented players in world football at the moment, and that's what you need around you. The more you play with these type of players, the more you improve and the more experience you gain.'

Azerbaijan Coach says Flamingoes are good for the trophy

Sissy Wright, coach of Azerbaijan Women's Under 17 Team, has poured superlatives on the Flamingoes after yesterday's 0 - 11 loss to Nigeria’s under-17 women’s team. The defeat means the hosts are technically out of the championship and their last group game against Canada is a mere formality.

She told reporters after the game: ''I congratulate the opponents.  Nigeria deserved to win, very strong team. I can not be happy for this result. But all saw my girls fought to the end. I am proud that despite the 0 - 7 in the first half, the girls did not give up and continued to play, I'm not going to blame the team. This team (Nigeria, ed) deserves the championship.''

Though Sissy Wright praised the fans for their support, she was disappointed at their behavior when the Flamingoes scored their eighth goal in the second half.

''Thank you for supporting Lankaran stands. Do not want to belittle the achievements of fans, but after the eighth goal of Nigeria, all were so happy, as if we scored. Then they started shouting Nigeria, Nigeria. I did not like it. "

Obi ready for Liberia

Inter Milan whiz kid, Joel Obi is staging a bold return to the Super Eagles after months out to injury.

The player who has not played an official game for the past four months due to a hamstring injury he suffered at the end of last season revealed in chat on our radio programme, Megasports on Star FM (runs 7am, Monday-Friday) that he looks forward to seeing the Eagles roast the Lone Star of Liberia in Calabar next as Nigeria attempts to qualify for the 2013 Afcon, after missing out of playing in Gabon/Equatorial Guinea 2012.

“I have started training already and hopefully would be in Nigeria to see to the downfall of Liberia if the coach send be an invitation. I have missed the national team so much that I can’t wait to wear our colours again.”

His agent Renzo Contratto has also seconded Obi’s claim to full wellness.,

''He's almost ready, we'll see him in a few days. Inter has handled his case admirably. Muscle injuries are difficult, and the Nerazzurri have done everything in the best way, without thinking of the date of return to the field, but put the player in a position to heal without hurry. "

Obasi returns

Chinedu Obasi could play his first game for Schalke 04 this season against Mainz tomorrow, the official website of the Bundesliga club has hinted. On Sunday, the Nigeria international had a running session without difficulties.

With Klaas-Jan Huntelaar questionable for the tie at the Veltins-Arena (Gelsenkirchen) , coach Huub Stevens may replace the Dutch forward with Obasi.

Obasi has not played for Schalke 04 this season after having surgery at the end of the 2011 - 2012 campaign.

Since joining The Royal Blues from Hoffenheim in the winter transfer market, the 26- year -old former Lyn Oso ace has scored one goal in ten appearances.