Sports

Nigeria Beat Ghana 2-1 At Africa Cup of Nations Hockey Championship

Published

12 months ago

October 11, 2025

Joel Ajayi

Nigeria began their campaign at the Africa Cup of Nations Hockey Championship on a high note as the men’s national team secured a thrilling 2-1 victory over arch-rivals Ghana.

The tightly contested match, at ongoing AFCON in Egypt saw both teams display intense passion and skill, but it was the Nigerian side that ultimately emerged victorious.

The win sets a positive tone for Nigeria’s journey in the tournament and reignites the long-standing rivalry between the two West African giants.
The match kicked off with high energy, and it didn’t take long before Nigeria made their presence felt. With swift ball movement and well-coordinated attacks, the Nigerian side pressed the Ghanaians early, eventually breaking the deadlock with a well-taken goal midway through the first half.

Ghana responded with determination, equalizing just before halftime, setting the stage for a tense second half.

After the break, both teams pushed for a winning goal, but it was Nigeria who took the lead again through a superb strike that left the Ghanaian goalkeeper rooted.

The Nigerian defense held firm despite late pressure from Ghana, ensuring that the scoreline remained 2-1 until the final whistle. The victory is not only a morale booster for the team but also a crucial step toward qualifying for the knockout stages.

Meanwhile, the Nigerian women’s team had a less favorable outing in their own opening match, falling 1-0 to Kenya. It was a closely fought encounter with both sides creating chances, but a lone goal in the second half made the difference.
Despite the loss, the Nigerian women’s side showed promising moments that they will look to build on in subsequent matches.

As the tournament progresses, both Nigerian teams will aim to build on their experiences from the opening games.

While the men will look to carry forward their momentum and secure a place in the semifinals, the women are keen to turn things around and make a mark.

With strong team spirit and national pride on the line, Nigeria’s presence in the Africa Cup of Nations Hockey Championship continues to generate excitement and hope among fans.

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Sports

29 Days To AACT 2026: IBB Club Renewal Heralds Nigeria’s African Golf Showcase

Published

7 hours ago

October 4, 2026

The Gleamer

Joel Ajayi

With 29 days to the 2026 All Africa Challenge Trophy (AACT), Nigeria is stepping up preparations to host the continental women’s team golf championship, with the extensive rehabilitation of the IBB International Golf and Country Club in Abuja providing a major boost to the country’s readiness.

In a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja Director of Communication AACT 2026, Kayode Adeniyi said the Club’s Board of Trustees has assured that the facility will be fully prepared to welcome golfers, officials and delegates from across Africa when the championship tees off on November 2.

Chairperson of the Board of Trustees, Hon. Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, CFR, gave the assurance after inspecting ongoing rehabilitation works at the Club, expressing satisfaction with the progress recorded so far.

The IBB International Golf and Country Club has undergone extensive rehabilitation following its closure to regular golfing activities for more than a year. The intervention has focused on the golf course, selected holes, the clubhouse and other key facilities required to provide a befitting venue for the continental championship.

Justice Dongban-Mensem expressed confidence that the rehabilitation programme would be completed in time for the AACT, further reassuring stakeholders that the Club would be ready to host Africa’s leading female golfers.

Chairman of the Club’s Interim Management Committee, Peter Deshi, also expressed optimism over the progress of work, with regular golfing activities expected to resume ahead of the championship.

For the Ladies Golf Association of Nigeria (LGAN), the readiness of the host venue remains a critical component of the country’s preparations.

President of the Association, Dr. Lami Ahmed, has similarly expressed confidence in Nigeria’s preparations to stage a successful championship.

The 2026 AACT is scheduled to take place from November 2 to 7 at the IBB International Golf and Country Club, Abuja.

With the countdown now entering its final month, the rehabilitation of the Club is sending a strong message about Nigeria’s determination to deliver a successful championship and provide a worthy stage for Africa’s finest female golfers.

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