Copa Lagos 2013: Nigeria Thrash Germany 7-1 In Beach Soccer

Germany 1-7 Nigeria

Nigeria’s Super Sand Eagles yesterday (Friday, 13 2013) kicked off the defence of their title in this year’s Copa Lagos Beach Soccer in style at the Eko Atlantic City, Lagos in the evening.

The Super Sand Eagles, who have won the first two editions of the Copa Lagos defeated former European Beach League champions, Germany 7-1 with three goals from 

• Abu Azeez, one each from 
• Ogbona Okemmiri, captain 
• Olawale Isiaka, 
• Ikechukwu Ibenegbu and 
• Ogbonna Emeka.

This will be the first time the Germany will take part in the Copa Lagos sponsored by FCMB Plc and Eko Atlantic. The Germans, who exhibited a combination of power and flair on the beach of the Eko Atlantic City, could not match the fire power of Nigeria’s Beach Eagle who proved too strong for them.

Meanwhile, Senegal who had been crowned champions of Africa three times in 2008, 2011 and 2013 were earlier in the afternoon defeated in the opening march by Lebanon 5-4.

Lebanon were making their second consecutive appearance at the Copa Lagos which they almost won last year in the final.

Head coach of the Nigerian team, Audu Adamu expressed his satisfaction with the performance of his team, saying “I am very happy and satisfied with the way the boys performed today, they really carried out the instructions and the training we had before this tournament was not in vain. We didn’t know the Germans before this match. I want to believe that they knew us and they really prepared for us. We’re looking forward to the next game, as you can see, there are no smaller team anymore. The Lebanese team defeated Senegal who were the former Africa champions. These Lebanese team almost defeated us last year. So, we have to prepare ourselves if we really want to defend the title.”

Next Matches

Germany vs Lebanon

Nigeria vs Senegal

Ballon d'Or

World football's governing body FIFA have extended the voting deadline for their player of the year prize, the Ballon d'Or.
The decision has been taken reportedly due to a low turnout by coaches, captains and media voters. Those with voting forms now have until November 29 to submit their top three.
Voters who have already sent their choices in will have the option to reassess their submissions, in a decision that was curiously announced on the night that Cristiano Ronaldo scored a stunning hat-trick to seal Portugal qualification for the World Cup.
Closest rival Lionel Messi is out injured, while Zlatan Ibrahimovic - another contender - failed to inspire Sweden to a comeback victory that would have seen them head to Brazil.
QUESTION
Who's gonna take it this time, is still Messi, or CR7 ?

Match Preview: Manchester United vs Arsenal

RVP

Manchester United vs Arsenal -5:10 Pm (17:10 GMT)

The age long rivalry that exists between The Reds and The Gunners is legendary.

Today at Old Tradfford, old enemies meet again. It sure would be a big clash.

Tension and fever is in the air, with many wandering who will gain the day.

With Theo Walcott and Alex OxladeChamberlain out injured, the North London outfit lack width. When they lose possession, the space in front of the wing-backs is left exposed, and Antonio Valencia on the right—and either Shinji Kagawa, Nani, Adnan Januzaj or Ashley Young on the left—have the pace and talent to exploit that space.

Walcott vs De Gea
In Arsenal’s 1-0 win over Spurs in the North London derby, the space in this area was clearly evident, but their rivals failed to take advantage.

Valencia, and whoever lines up on the left, will be able to service both Robin van Persie and Wayne Rooney up front. And when that pair get the ball in front of goal, there’s usually just one outcome.

If United can soak up Arsenal’s attacks and counter-attack efficiently, then they could come away with all three points.

What's your predictions?

Match Preview: Ghana vs Egypt~World Cup Play Offs 1st Leg

The Pharaohs are already in Kumasi as they are already preparing to lock horns with the Black stars in their first leg World Cup qualifier that will kick off tomorrow Tuesday 15th October, by 4 Pm.

Ghana's Black Stars have been on the ascendancy ever since they qualified for their first World Cup in 2006 and would be looking to make it a habit of honouring the World’s prestigious football tournament when they face Egypt.


The Black Stars are looking forward to securing their third consecutive World Cup participation. Many Ghanaian very optimistic that their team will defeat the visiting Egyptians.
But their optimism maybe mere wishful thinking, judging by the fact that Egypt has a wonderful record so far in their World Cup campaigns, with six wins out of six games.
Also having failed to qualify for the World Cup 2010, and the last two AFCON tournaments, the Pharaohs are fully back to secure a ticket to Brazil by all means. With Walid, and Abou-Treika up front, Egyptians will have little or nothing to worry about.

The Black Stars also have had an impressive run in the group stage of the qualifications. They accumulated a total of 15 from a possible 18 points with the only loss away at Ndola to 2012 African Champions Zambia. Ghana have had good runs in the World Cup featuring in 2006 in Germany and 2010 in South Africa, where they were Africa’s best and last contingent from the continent to be eliminated. They nearly registered a record as the first African country to enter the semi-finals with an Asamoah Gyan spot kick away, but it was missed.

Ghana's probable line ups:
(4-2-3-1)

Richard Kingson; Daniel Opare, Awal Mohamed, Jerry Akaminko, Mubarak Wakaso; Sulley Muntari, Michael Essien; Kwadwo Asamoah, Andre Ayew, Asamoah Gyan; Abdul Majeed Waris.

It is likely for Egypt to start with:
(4-3-3)
Sherif Ekramy; Ahmed Fathi, Wael Gomaa, Mohamed Naguib, Ahmed Shedid; Hossam Ashour, Mohamed El-Nenny, Hossam Ghaly; Mohamed Salah, Mohamed Abou-Treika, Walid Soliman.

African Road To Brazil: World Cup Qualifiers 1st Leg

                                          Emenike

13 October  Tunisia 0 - 0 Cameroon

Cameroon's football now adays isn't what it use to be in the past. They've been struggling to regain their lost form.
Cameroon goalkeeper Charles Itandje was the man of the match as he made several sparkling saves to help his side force a goalless draw away in Tunisia on Sunday in the first leg of their World Cup play-off.

13 October  Ethiopia 1 - 2 Nigeria

Emmanuel Emenike scored twice for Nigeria to move a step closer to the 2014 World Cup after a 2-1 win in Ethiopia on Saturday.

A spirited Ethiopia took the lead after 57 minutes through Behailu Asefa, when his cross from the left was wrongly judged by goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama and the Cameroonian referee ruled it a goal.


But the Eagles fought back and drew level through the individual brilliance of Emenike when he took on the entire Ethiopia defence before he fired past the goalkeeper.

12 October        Cote d'Ivoire 3 - 1 Senegal

Goals scorers:
11. DIDIER DROGBA (5’)        15. PAPISS DEMBA CISSE (90 + 6’)
0. LAMINE SANE (14’) [OG]
8. SALOMON KALOU (50’)

Didier Drogba

12 October  Burkina Faso 3 - 2 Algeria

Burkina Faso is just one team you'd fear having them as your opponent. Their performance in the last AFGON was very remarkable. That's why they emerged as runners up.
As good as the Algerians were, they could not stand the incessant pressures from Burkina Faso.
Goals scorers:
JONATHAN PITROIPA (45 + 2’)   SOFIANE FEGHOULI (50’)
DJAKARIDJA KONE (65’)             CARL MEDJANI (69’)
ARISTIDE BANCE (86’)

Road To World Cup ~ Nigeria vs Ethiopia Past & Present

Nigeria vs Ethiopia Sunday 20th October 2013.
This isn't gonna be a work over for Nigeria, as some Nigerians think. Nigeria needs to work hard to achieve victory. Underrating these guys may bring disastrous consequences for the Eagles.
The Walya Antelopes are a very courageous team bonded together by team spirit. They are known for one-twos style of play, mostly at the midfield. Mikel Obi and whoever is going to be at the midfield must keep a close eye on these two guys: Saint George, and Menyahel Teshome.

Nigeria and Ethiopia have met seven times with Nigeria winning four times, drawing twice and losing just once.

These are the past records for Nigeria vs Ethiopia:

Nigeria 3-0 Ethiopia 1982–AFCON Nations Cup Finals in Libya. Goals scored by Stephen Keshi (2) and Ademola Adeshina (1)

Nigeria 1-0 Ethiopia –Friendly January of 1993 in Ethiopia

Nigeria 0-1 Ethiopia –1994 Nations Cup qualifier

Nigeria 6-0 Ethiopia –1994 Nations Cup qualifier
Goals scored by late Rashidi Yekini hat-trick, Sunday Oliseh (1)

Nigeria 2-2 Ethiopia–2012 Nations Cup qualifier in Addis Abba, Ethiopia

Nigeria 4-0 Ethiopia–2012 Nations Cup qualifier
Goals scored by John Utaka (1) Ike Uche (2)

Nigeria 2-0 Ethiopia–2013 Nations Cup in South Africa
Goals scored by Victor Moses
What's gonna be the outcome of this match? I'd love to know your predictions.

Carling Cup ~ Manchester United 1-0 Liverpool As It Happened

Manchester United 1-0 Liverpool
It was such a breath taking match, as United were all out to take a revenge on Liverpool.
Javier Hernandez brought a sense of stability back to Manchester United after a turbulent week by netting the only goal in an absorbing Capital One Cup tie with Liverpool.


Hernandez wriggled away from Jose Enrique to touch home Wayne Rooney's corner.

The Mexican's first goal of the campaign came so early in the second-half, United manager David Moyes had barely got beyond the penalty area in his walk to the home dug-out.

It meant it was easy to spot the Scot's celebration, at a strike that should at least quell some of the angst that built up following that awful hammering at Manchester City four days ago.

United's performance was not perfect.

Indeed, on his return following a 10-match suspension, Luis Suarez came close to levelling when his vicious free-kick struck the bar with David De Gea beaten.

De Gea had only just repelled Victor Moses' powerful diving header.

But the hosts had chances to sew up the contest too, with Simon Mignolet producing a couple of excellent saves to deny Rooney.

And after bravely riding the hefty punches landed on him at the Etihad Stadium, Moyes was probably not that bothered about the actual scoreline anyway, just the much-needed victory against one of England's biggest clubs, and United's greatest rivals.

It was hardly a surprise Suarez should start.

After all, when you have spent so long out and are desperately in need of match fitness, there is little to be gained by kicking your heels on the bench watching others do what you are paid so much for.

Perhaps understandably though, the Uruguayan was not quite on top form.

He was caught on his heels slightly when Steven Gerrard rolled an inviting pass into his path, which allowed Rafael to slide back and clear.

And when Enrique's curling cross dropped over Jonny Evans' head, Suarez's first touch was just too long so De Gea was able to slide out to bravely block his second.

He did supply the through ball that ended with Daniel Sturridge toe-poking wide.

Suarez would have also got the assist if Moses had been able to drill his square ball home. Moses didn't get the opportunity though as Ryan Giggsreached it first.

Transfer Rumors~Soccer

Baines contract talks on hold
The Mirror report that Manchester United transfer target Leight on Baines must wait to secure a new deal that will see him earn a pay rise, with Everton boss Roberto Martinez claiming that a bumper contract has been “put aside.” United swooped for the England full-back during the summer transfer window but were unsuccessful in their approach as Baines accepted Everton's decision to refuse the Premier League champions. Reports suggest that Baines will be offered a 50 percent pay rise for his loyalty – taking his weekly wage to £75,000. Martinez said: “At the moment, all it is is the games and any individual contracts or situations are put aside. The only thing that concerns me is just to make sure he’s as fit as he can be and gets in a stronger position and balances the demands of England and club level. That’s what I’m focused on, that his day to day is perfect. Everything else, behind the scenes we’re happy with the situation and we’re making sure he’s happy as well.” Paper Round's view: There's no doubt that Baines will be given a new contract at Everton but, even though the defender was accepting of not becoming a Manchester United player over the summer, it is surely a tactic to bump up his price when former Everton manager Moyes comes knocking again.

Juventus to rival Liverpool and Chelsea for Alonso
The Express suggest that Italian giants Juventus have entered the race to sign Real Madridmid fielder Xabi Alonso, rivalling Liverpooland Chelsea for his signature. The former Liverpool midfielder's contract at the Santiago Bernabeu is set to expire at the end of the season, with a number of teams across Europe looking to secure his signature should he not renew his current deal. The paper reports: “Alonso, who turns 32 in November, has been eyed up for a possible summer move to Turin as a replacement for the ageing Andrea Pirlo.” Paper Round's view: There's no doubt that Alonso could replace the majestic Pirlo but, if he wasn't to renew his Madrid contract, then a move back to the Premier League would surely be the preferred option.
More updates are on the way

Transfer List and Signings (Soccer)

For those who don't know, below is the transfer/signing list.

Player                      Country                 To                              From                      Price

Mladen Petric
Attacker                  Croatia                 West Ham                   Fulham                    Free

Cameron Jerome
Attacker                  England                 Crystal Palace             Stoke                       Loan

Victor Anichebe
Attacker                  Nigeria                  West Bromwich          Everton                     6m

Gareth Barry
Midfielder               England                  Everton                     Manchester City          Loan

Gedo
Attacker                 Egypt                     Hull City                    Al Ahly                        Loan

Marouane Fellaini
Midfielder               Belgium                 Manchester United     Everton                        32m

James McCarthy
Midfielder               Ireland                  Everton                      Wigan                           15m

Elsad Zverotic
Midfielder               Montenegro          Fulham                      Young Boys          Undisclosed

Romelu Lukaku
Attacker                 Belgium                Everton                      Chelsea                         Loan

Mesut Ozil
Midfielder              Germany              Arsenal                       Real Madrid                  50m

Countdown to match day 2 :UEFA Champions League

Yesterday we saw some exciting games of football in the champions league. All the top teams won exception of Juventus and today football fans will not be expecting anything less.

Today all eyes will be focused on the group of death as they tackle each other. The teams in this group are in-case  you are just coming from space Napoli, Dortmund, Arsenal and Marseilles.

The big match today is Napoli vs Dortmund. Dortmund as last year finalist will want to prove to bookmakers that they are the teams to beat. They will come with intention and hunger, if their form in their domestic league is anything to go by, they are in top gear. They are top of their league winning all their games so far this season. Napoli on the other hand has got a manager who is so accustomed to winning in Europe and they've recruited well in the summer. They like Dortmund are also top of their league and have maintained a 100% start to their season. This is a clash between two top teams and football lovers got something to be excited for.

The other game in this group between Marseilles and Arsenal is going to be another cracker. Each team will want to end the night with a win to place it in a better position to face the other two teams. I'm going to be keeping my eyes on this one too especially to see what Wenger got up his sleeves. A loss today will spell doom for gunners especially as bookmakers have predicted them not to survive this group. Marseilles on the other hand will want to prove bookmakers wrong that they are not the whipping team of the group and will come out blazing on all sides. Arsenal are in for a very tough game and I hope Ozil is fully fit for this encounter because aside all the hype of last weekend, he was sluggish to me and the reason was that he was not feeling too well. He needs  to be on top form to carry this Arsenal team on his shoulder.

Another match I'll  look  forward to is Chelsea vs Basel not because it will be a tough game but because of Mourinho. We all want to see him take charge of his first European game in this his second spell. Also we want to see the intricacies of his selection especially as he admitted yesterday that he has young and beautiful eggs in his squad. He claimed four players under the age of 22 will feature in the game tomorrow. Apart from Oscar who he said will be starting, I want to see who the other players will be, Lampard is also guaranteed a start

Barcelona will want to get  their campaign to a flyer as they match out at home against Ajax. The question that will be playing on people's mind is how Messi will respond to Ronaldo's ha trick of yesterday, expects Messi to let his game do the talking.

Below are the games for today. Enjoy another night of European football.

Napoli vs Dortmund
Marseilles vs Arsenal
Chelsea vs Basel
Schalke vs Steaua Bucuresti
AC Milan vs Celtic
Barcelona vs Ajax
Atletico Madrid vs Zenit St Petersburg
Austria Wein vs Fc Porto

World Cup Play Offs for Africa

On Saturday, I was discussing with a friend of mine on his preferred opponent for the play off against Nigeria. just to update you, the team we were supposed to face were; Cameroon, Egypt, Senegal, Burkina Faso and Ethiopia. my friend opted for either of Burkina Faso or Ethiopia.

From the draw which was held today, Monday 16th Sept saw Nigeria to face  Ethiopia. I bet my friend and optimistic Nigerians are rejoicing over the draw. His belief is that Ethiopia is no match for Nigeria but we all know that football is no mathematics. Games like this are always full of surprises, any mistake can prove fatal. Stephen Keshi should be happy that we are handed an easy draw but he should start now to plan his tactics and also drum it into his boys that this is no mean draw, that they should give their all. Anything short of victory will be a disaster and 150 millions Nigerians and more will not forgive him nor his team. As always Nigerians will pray and cheer for the team. Brazil is the destination and we cant avoid to stop half way

The other draws are: Cameroon vs Tunisia, Ghana vs Egypt, Algeria vs Burkina Faso and Cote d' Ivoire vs Senegal.

From the draw, the toughest of the clash is Cote d' Ivoire vs Senegal, what a cracker that will be and I cant wait for that clash.

The first leg of the matches will take place between October 11 and 15 while the returning games will be between November 15 and 19.
Like a friend of mine said sometime ago, may the best team qualify from Africa.

Mancheter United's Robbin Van Persie says he's a fan of P-Square Music

In a chat with football legend Paddy Creramd, Manchester United striker Robin Van Persie talked about his activities off the pitch.
 When he was asked what kind of music he listens to, RVP said: "I like to listen to music. ..all sorts honestly.
I can listen to dutch songs, English songs, whatever. If the tune is good I like it."
When asked who in particular he likes, he replied "Michael Jackson, Usher, P-Square... all sorts... Click Here To Watch The Video

Tokyo has been chosen to host the 2020 Olympics and Paralympics Games

Tokyo has been chosen to host the 2020 Olympic and Paralympics Games ahead of Istanbul and Madrid

The Japanese capital won a majority of second-round votes from International Olympic Committee (IOC) members in Buenos Aires to beat Istanbul. Madrid had earlier been eliminated in a first round of voting. The announcement was met with jubilant scenes in Japan, as Tokyo prepares to host the event for the first time since 1964.
Japan In Istanbul's old city, a groan went through the crowd of hundreds of people.
In the first round, Istanbul and Madrid tied with 26 votes each. Tokyo had 42 votes, six short of a winning majority. Istanbul then beat Madrid 49-45 in a tiebreak to advance to the final, which Tokyo won easily.

In their final presentation, Madrid made its case as the least-expensive option and Istanbul spoke of historic opportunity to bring the Olympics to a predominantly Muslim country for the first time.
Madrid, biding for the third time, had seemed to have gained the most momentum in recent weeks despite Spain's economic crisis and 27 percent unemployment rate. The Madrid team claimed the games would not pose no financial risk because most of the venues were already built.