Sports
Morocco 2022: Falcons set to battle against Olympic champions in friendly matches
Nine-time African champions Nigeria will clash with reigning Olympic champions Canada in two friendly matches that will hold over three days in the cities of Vancouver and Victoria City. Both matches take place Friday, 8th April and Monday, 11th April respectively.
Two players – defenders Onome Ebi and Glory Ogbonna – were among the contingent that flew out of Nigeria aboard a Lufthansa Airline plane on Tuesday night, and connected a flight from Frankfurt to Vancouver on Wednesday. The other players are to fly direct to Vancouver from their bases in Europe and the American continent.
Canada’s Women’s National Team are the reigning champions of Olympic women’s football, having won the gold medal at the Olympic Women’s Football Tournament in Tokyo in August 2021, after beating Sweden on penalties following a 1-1 draw after regulation and extra time.
The Super Falcons have won the African title nine times and recently qualified for the Women AFCON finals hold in Morocco this summer, after a 3-0 aggregate win over Cote d’Ivoire in February. Newcomers Ifeoma Onumonu (in Abuja) and Esther Okoronkwo (in Abidjan) accounted for the goals that avenged the Falcons’ elimination from the Tokyo Olympics race by the Ivorians. The Nigeria Football Federation has organized this two-match tour against the Olympic champions as part of the Super Falcons’ preparations for the 12th Women Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
Friday’s clash at the BC Place in Vancouver is another date for both teams after many years, following their epic 3-3 draw at the 1995 FIFA Women’s World Cup finals in Sweden.
Both will again clash at the Centennial Stadium in Victoria City on Monday, 11th April. The two matches will kick off at 7.30 pm Nigeria time (3.30 am Vancouver time on 9th April and 12th April respectively.
Sports
President Tinubu Reaffirms Strong Support for Team Nigeria at 2025 Invictus Games in Vancouver
Joel Ajayi
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has pledged comprehensive support for Nigeria’s team as they prepare to compete in the Invictus Games, set to take place in Vancouver, Canada, in 2025. Representing the President, Hon. Mohammed Abba Isa, Senior Special Assistant on Special Needs and Equal Opportunities, delivered this message of assurance during a sports training week organized by the Africa Unconquered Foundation. Hon. Isa emphasized that President Tinubu’s administration remains deeply committed to inclusivity and to supporting servicemen and women who inspire the nation with their bravery and resilience.
Hon. Isa highlighted a recent moment of significance when Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, visited Nigeria, underscoring the country’s support for the Invictus Games. Prince Harry’s initiative to establish the Invictus Games offers a space where wounded and injured military personnel can experience healing and achievement through sports. “Their visit shone a light on Nigeria’s dedication to the Invictus Games, reflecting the spirit of our servicemen and women,” he remarked. “President Tinubu’s administration is firmly committed to supporting our athletes, ensuring they receive the resources they need, and celebrating their journey to success.”
Derrick Cobbinah, Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder of the Africa Unconquered Foundation, explained the importance of the Invictus Games training week. The Foundation’s mission is to support the sports recovery journey of wounded, injured, and serving military personnel across Africa, including Nigeria. “This week, we are training 22 injured soldiers, preparing them for the Invictus Games next year in Vancouver, Canada. It’s an opportunity for Nigeria to showcase its strength on the world stage, competing alongside other nations.”
Cobbinah emphasized that the Invictus Games concept has a profound impact on participants, especially those who have fought in challenging conditions, such as combating Boko Haram. For many soldiers who have faced trauma and physical injuries, the Games offer renewed hope and empowerment.
“For some, these events have restored a sense of purpose, camaraderie, and unity—something invaluable as they rebuild from their injuries,” he shared.
Alvin Atsegwasi CFO and Co – Founder
“This experience reinforces healing, unity, and a strong belief in the support systems around them.”
Looking ahead, Atsegwasi expressed excitement for the future, stating, “Our mission goes beyond the Games; we’re here for continuous development, healing, and growth. Together, we heal, and together, we rise.”
Team Nigeria will compete in five sports at the 2025 Invictus Games in Vancouver: archery, wheelchair basketball, swimming, wheelchair rugby, and para volleyball. As they prepare to represent the nation on an international stage, Nigeria is ready to rally behind them, honoring their resilience and the spirit of triumph that defines them.
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