Sports

Sports Minister Urges Super Eagles to Beat Bafana Bafana of South Africa in Uyo, to secure World Cup Chances

Published

12 months ago

June 6, 2024

Joel Ajayi

…Calls for total concentration, passion, and unity

With the FIFA World Cup qualifiers in full swing, the Honourable Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh has called on the Super Eagles to shift their focus from their recent African Cup of Nations (AFCON) and concentrate on the crucial task of securing a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Super Eagles are set to face Bafana Bafana of South Africa on Friday at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, and Senator Enoh stated that Nigeria must approach the tie as a make-or-break one, as victory will put the team back on track for qualification.

“The FIFA World Cup is the biggest showpiece in football,” Senator Enoh emphasized. “We cannot afford to miss out on the World Cup again. The disappointment of missing the last tournament, especially after the disappointing home match against the Black Stars, must drive us to ensure we qualify this time.”

Senator Enoh urged all stakeholders, including players, coaches, and support staff, to be fully committed to the qualification campaign. “All hands must be on deck to ensure the team qualifies for the World Cup,” he stressed. “I urge the players to get the job done in the first half of the game by scoring early goals, so they are not under pressure in the second half.”

“The upcoming match against South Africa is critical,” Senator Enoh said. “The players need to put the AFCON glory behind them and concentrate fully on this task. Early goals will be key to taking control of the game and ensuring a less pressured second half.”

Senator Enoh concluded by expressing confidence in the Super Eagles’ ability to rise to the occasion and secure a much-needed victory. “We have the talent, the passion, and the support of millions of Nigerians. Let’s channel that into a winning performance and take a significant step towards World Cup qualification.”

The match will kick off at 8 p.m. local time on Friday, June 7, at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo. Nigeria currently has two points from two games and sits third in their group of six teams.

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Sports

Paul Salami Fires Hat-Trick as U23 Side Defeats 10-Man Melbourne Sharks

Published

9 hours ago

June 3, 2025

The Gleamer

Jeph Akanji

Paul Salami’s Stunning Hat-Trick Sinks 10-Man Melbourne Sharks in U23 Showdown

Nigerian-born midfielder Paul Salami stole the show with a sensational hat-trick, leading his side to a dominant 3-0 victory over the Melbourne Sharks in Week 9 of the Australian U23 League.

The 21-year-old rising star opened the scoring in the 20th minute, calmly finishing off a swift counter-attack to put his team ahead. The momentum shifted further in their favor when Sharks defender Liam Mastos received a straight red card in the 40th minute for a reckless challenge, forcing the home side to play with 10 men.

Salami continued to exploit the numerical advantage with clinical precision. He netted his second goal in the 52nd minute, capping off a well-orchestrated team move, before sealing his hat-trick in the 75th minute with a composed finish that left the goalkeeper with no chance.

Operating with poise and creativity in midfield, Salami’s performance was a masterclass in attacking intelligence, control, and execution. His match-winning display not only earned him the match ball but also solidified his growing reputation as one of the most exciting young talents in the league.

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