Sports
FAZ SUPER LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIP: IT’S WEEK 23
RACE to the FAZ Super League Championship continues this weekend with some mouthwatering fixtures as the Zambian top tier soccer competition enters Week 23.
Green Eagles will be hoping to get back to winning ways following their loss to FC MUZA last weekend as they host Zesco United in Choma this afternoon.
Elsewhere, Forest Rangers will host F.C MUZA in a lunchtime kick-off at Arthur Davies Stadium in Kitwe.
In other fixtures, Power Dynamos will be at home to Green Buffaloes, with Konkola Blades welcoming Kansanshi Dynamos.
Meanwhile, Nkwazi will await the visit of Kabwe Warriors, with Prison Leopards to host ZANACO, while Trident FC who registered their first league win last weekend will play Nkana in Solwezi.
On Sunday, Mufulira Wanderers will host Mutondo Stars.
And in the Southern Province Division 1 League, the battle for supremacy will come as River Plate battle it out in with Young MUZA at Nyati farms, Saturday afternoon.
Livingstone Pirates will face Zesco Mazabuka, Chikuni Coops will host Macha United while Young Pirates will date Sinazongwe United, with Maamba Energy Stars to entertain Maramba stars.
On Sunday, Kascol Rangers will host New Monze Swallows, Batoka United will square it off with Bart’s FC, while Play it forward will play Simoonga United in a Livingstone derby, with Kalomo Jetters welcoming Blue Arrows.
Sports
El-Kanemi Warriors Gearing Up for Success: Coach Zubairu Confident of Home Wins in NPFL 2024/2025
The 2024/2025 Nigerian Premier League (NPFL) season is off to a promising start for El-Kanemi Warriors, and Head Coach Aliyu Zubairu is optimistic about his team’s chances. Following a thrilling 4-3 victory over Nasarawa United last Saturday, Zubairu expressed confidence in his team’s ability to secure all three points in their home matches this season.
Zubairu’s Confidence Boosted:
“We are determined to make our home ground a fortress,” Zubairu stated in a post-match interview. “Our fans have been fantastic, and we want to repay their support with wins.” El-Kanemi Warriors have already collected four points from two away matches, setting the tone for a strong campaign.
Previous Match Highlights:
The Maiduguri-based outfit edged Nasarawa United 4-3 in a seven-goal thriller, demonstrating their attacking prowess. This victory followed a credible draw in their season opener, showcasing the team’s resilience and adaptability.
Plateau United Next:
Zubairu’s focus now shifts to the upcoming clash against Plateau United. “We respect Plateau United, but we’re ready to give it our all,” he emphasized. With momentum on their side, El-Kanemi Warriors aim to continue their winning ways.
Season Objectives:
Coach Zubairu outlined his team’s objectives for the 2024/2025 season:
– Win all home matches
– Consolidate a top-half league position
– Challenge for continental spots
Squad Dynamics:
Zubairu praised his players’ teamwork and dedication. “Our squad is gelling well, and everyone is committed to the cause.” He also acknowledged the impact of new signings, stating, “They’ve settled in seamlessly and enhanced our squad depth.”
El-Kanemi Warriors’ positive start to the NPFL season has generated excitement among fans. With Coach Zubairu’s tactical acumen and the team’s determination, they’re poised for a successful campaign. As they face Plateau United next, all eyes will be on the Maiduguri outfit to see if they can maintain their winning momentum.
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Sports
Benin Vs Nigeria PREVIEW: Super Eagles Eye First Win in 2026 World Cup Qualifiers
The anticipation is palpable as Nigeria’s Super Eagles gear up for a crucial encounter against Benin Republic’s Cheetahs on Monday. This match is significant in Nigeria’s quest for a first win in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, and all eyes will be on the Felix Houphouet-Boigny Stadium, with kickoff scheduled for 5 p.m. (Nigerian Time).A Crucial Encounter
The Super Eagles are determined to secure their first victory in the qualifiers after a series of challenging fixtures. This match against Benin Republic presents a golden opportunity for Nigeria to assert their dominance and gain crucial points on the road to the 2026 World Cup. The team has been working hard in training, focusing on tactics and cohesion to ensure they deliver a top-notch performance.
The Stakes are High
For the Super Eagles, this match is more than just a game; it’s a chance to set the tone for the rest of their qualification campaign. With talented players like Victor Osimhen, Wilfred Ndidi, and Samuel Chukwueze expected to feature, Nigeria’s squad boasts the quality needed to overcome any challenge. The pressure is on, but so is the determination to succeed.
Benin Republic’s Challenge
On the other hand, the Cheetahs of Benin are not to be underestimated. Known for their resilience and tactical discipline, they will be looking to make a statement by securing a positive result against one of Africa’s football giants. The Benin team has been preparing rigorously, and playing on home soil will give them an added advantage as they seek to upset the odds.
Key Players to Watch
Nigeria
-Victor Osimhen: The Napoli striker has been in sensational form, and his goal-scoring prowess will be vital for Nigeria.
Wilfred Ndidi: A rock in midfield, Ndidi’s defensive abilities and ball distribution will be crucial in controlling the game.
Samuel Chukwueze: The Villarreal winger’s pace and creativity can unlock any defense, making him a key asset for the Super Eagles.
Benin Republic
Steve Mounié: The Huddersfield Town forward is known for his aerial ability and will be a constant threat to Nigeria’s defense.
Jordan Adeoti: A stalwart in midfield, Adeoti’s experience and leadership will be essential in orchestrating play for the Cheetahs.
Sessi D’Almeida: The industrious midfielder’s energy and work rate can disrupt Nigeria’s rhythm and create opportunities for Benin.
Tactical Battle
Nigeria’s coach, José Peseiro, will likely adopt an attacking approach, aiming to leverage the pace and skill of his forwards to break down Benin’s defense. Conversely, Benin’s strategy under coach Michel Dussuyer is expected to focus on a solid defensive setup, looking to exploit counter-attacks and set-pieces to trouble the Nigerian backline.
The Road Ahead
A win for Nigeria would boost their confidence and place them in a stronger position in the qualifiers. For Benin, a positive result would be a significant morale booster and could spark hopes of an unexpected qualification run. Both teams understand the importance of this fixture and will be giving their all on the pitch.
As the clock ticks down to kickoff, football fans across Africa and beyond eagerly await what promises to be a thrilling encounter. The Felix Houphouet-Boigny Stadium will be the stage where dreams are made or dashed, and the Super Eagles will be looking to soar high in their quest for World Cup glory.
Stay tuned for what promises to be an unforgettable match as Nigeria’s Super Eagles take on Benin Republic’s Cheetahs. Will Nigeria secure their first win in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, or will Benin pull off a stunning upset? All will be revealed on Monday.
Sports
Nkana Aims to Foil Zesco United’s Championship Aspirations
After securing a victory over their rivals last week, Nkana is now focused on defeating struggling Zesco United in today’s Super League fixture.
Nkana enters the match brimming with confidence following their triumph over Power Dynamos in the Kitwe Derby, held at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium.
Today’s encounter holds particular significance as Nkana aims to surpass the 40-point mark, a milestone that would bolster their chances of remaining in the league. Conversely, Zesco United is keen to avoid falling further behind league leaders Red Arrows.
Presently occupying the ninth position with 37 points, Nkana sits comfortably six points clear of the relegation zone. A victory today would all but secure their position in the league for the foreseeable future.
On the other hand, Zesco United currently holds the second spot with 51 points, trailing league leaders Arrows by 10 points. However, a defeat today would significantly dent their aspirations for clinching the title.
Today’s fixtures are as follows:
15:00 | Nkana Vs ZESCO United | Venue: Nkana Stadium
15:00 | Forest Rangers Vs Konkola Blades | Venue: Dola Hill
15:00 | Red Arrows Vs Kansanshi Dynamos | Venue: Nkoloma Stadium
15:00 | NAPSA Stars Vs Green Eagles | Venue: REIZ Arena
As the teams take to the pitch, anticipation is high for an exhilarating display of football prowess and determination.