Author: Gabby

Rangers International Football Club has put an end to speculation about the future of their technical adviser, Fidelis Ilechukwu, confirming that he will remain at the helm for the upcoming season. The club’s chairman, Amobi Ezeaku, made this announcement during a media interaction in Enugu, dismissing rumors that the NPFL champions were considering a replacement.

Ezeaku emphasized the club’s commitment to supporting Ilechukwu as they prepare for the new campaign. He stated that management has already discussed the tactician’s concerns and will work to address them to ensure success in both domestic and continental competitions.

Ilechukwu, who led the Flying Antelopes to their ninth NPFL title last season, is expected to guide the team in the CAF Champions League next term. The chairman’s confirmation comes amid reports linking other coaches to the role, but he made it clear that Ilechukwu remains the man for the job.

“I had a conversation with Ilechukwu while he was with the Super Eagles in Portugal, and he shared his challenges. We have promised to tackle them before the new season,” Ezeaku said. He also praised the young coach’s achievements and expressed confidence in his ability to lead the team to greater heights.

The Nationwide League One (NLO) has imposed a heavy penalty on Green Beret FC, fining the club N1.5 million and suspending its officials for two seasons following an assault on match referees.

The incident occurred after their fixture against Zamfara United, prompting the league organizers to take decisive action.

In an official memo addressed to the club, the NLO detailed the sanctions: N1 million for violent conduct and an additional N500,000 to cover the medical bills of the injured referees. Both amounts must be paid within seven days.

The league’s secretariat condemned the attack, labeling it intolerable and a stain on the sport’s reputation.

Furthermore, Green Beret FC has been instructed to provide the names of the officials involved in the assault within 48 hours.

Akwa United has officially commenced its end-of-season recess, giving players and staff time to rejuvenate following a challenging campaign. The decision was communicated on Friday through a statement by club chairman Mr. Joseph Eno.

According to Eno, the break began on June 5, 2026, and is intended to allow the team to rest and recuperate in preparation for the upcoming season. He emphasized the importance of this period for physical and mental recovery.

The Promise Keepers fell just short of securing promotion to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) this season. Eno acknowledged the disappointment but remained optimistic about the future. “We are confident that with proper planning and dedication, we will achieve our goal next season,” he stated.

Club officials hope the time off will help players return stronger and more focused. Akwa United is already looking ahead to next season’s campaign, aiming to finally earn promotion to the top flight.

Brighton & Hove Albion have secured the permanent signing of Nigerian prodigy Zadok Yohanna from Swedish club AIK. The 18-year-old winger has committed to a five-year contract with the Premier League side, fending off competition from Newcastle United and Chelsea for his signature.

Yohanna, who moved to AIK from Ikon Allah Academy last year, has been turning heads with his performances in the Swedish league this season. In just seven league appearances, he netted two goals and provided three assists, showcasing his attacking prowess and earning a move to England’s top flight.

The teenager’s arrival is seen as a coup for Brighton, who beat out several top clubs to land the highly-rated youngster. The Seagulls have a reputation for developing young talent, and Yohanna will look to continue his development under their guidance.

Nigeria’s upcoming international friendly against Portugal has suffered a setback as defender Igoh Ogbu has been ruled out due to an injury. According to the Super Eagles media officer, Promise Efoghe, Ogbu sustained an Achilles tendon injury during Saturday’s training session in Leiria.

The 26-year-old center-back will now return to his Czech club, Slavia Prague, for treatment. Ogbu had been an active participant in Nigeria’s recent matches, featuring in both games of the Unity Cup invitational tournament held in London last month.

He started the Super Eagles’ 2-2 draw against Poland on Wednesday but was substituted at halftime for Semi Ajayi. The squad continues preparations for the friendly against World Cup-bound Portugal, scheduled for next week Wednesday in Leiria.

In a sudden turn of events, Anthony Martial has officially ended his stint with Mexican club Rayados, as both parties agreed to terminate the contract. The decision allows the French striker to become a free agent, effective immediately.

Renowned football journalist Fabrizio Romano broke the news on Saturday evening via his social media account, confirming that the separation was by mutual consent. Romano noted that Martial will now explore new opportunities after his release.

During his time in Mexico, the 30-year-old managed just 20 appearances across all competitions, recording a modest tally of one goal and three assists. His spell at Rayados was far from the explosive form that once made him one of football’s most promising talents.

Martial arrived at Monaco’s youth system and quickly rose to prominence, earning a high-profile move to Manchester United in 2015. However, his career trajectory has since taken a downward turn, failing to live up to the early expectations that had him pegged as the next breakout star in French football.

In a recent episode of the Stick To Football podcast, former Germany international and coach Jurgen Klinsmann shared his predictions for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The ex-Bayern Munich striker highlighted Portugal and Brazil as the two leading candidates to lift the trophy, while also acknowledging England’s potential if they harness their self-belief.

Klinsmann drew parallels between Portugal’s current setup and Argentina’s victorious 2022 campaign, noting how the entire team rallies around Cristiano Ronaldo. He described Portugal as a formidable unit brimming with talent, guided by the experienced Roberto Martinez. For Brazil, Klinsmann sees a strong shot at glory, and he emphasized that England, with their deep pool of quality players, could go all the way if they truly believe in their abilities.

The management of Abakaliki FC has officially granted a 55-day end-of-season hiatus to the team’s players and technical crew, following their recent elimination from the President Federation Cup. The announcement came via a statement signed by the club’s Chairman, Senator Obinna Ogba.

According to Ogba, the break will allow the club to thoroughly evaluate and address the shortcomings observed during the concluded campaign. He emphasized that all players and staff are expected to resume training on Saturday, July 25, 2026. Further updates regarding which players will be retained for the upcoming 2026–27 season will be communicated in due course.

Abakaliki FC finished fifth in the Conference B standings with 25 points. Their President Federation Cup journey ended in the Round of 32 when they were defeated by Barau FC in Abuja. The team, nicknamed the Rice Boys, now shifts focus to preparing for the next season after a period of rest and reflection.

Nollywood actress Yvonne Jegede has voiced strong criticism of the current administration under President Bola Tinubu, particularly regarding the nation’s security challenges. In her view, the government’s response to rising insecurity indicates a deep-seated absence of compassion.

The actress took to Instagram to express her frustration, asserting that insecurity is compounded by the government’s indifferent approach. She emphasized that the problem isn’t just the crimes themselves but the pervasive belief among Nigerians that no one will come to their rescue.

Jegede’s post directly addressed President Tinubu and his wife, stating, “Nigerians are not doormats nor people you just prey on.” She highlighted that violence occurs worldwide, but the unique issue in Nigeria is the government’s failure to respond effectively, making citizens feel abandoned.

She further noted that these atrocities are not limited by tribe, religion, or social class, underscoring the universal impact of the security crisis. Her remarks add to growing public discontent over the handling of safety and order across the country.