Sports
Nigerian teenager, Ilenikhena outshines Yamal Scores, As Monaco beat Barca 2-1
Nigerian striker George Ilenikhena scored on his Champions League debut as Monaco produced an upset against 10-man Barcelona.
The 18-year-old substitute raced on to Vanderson’s long ball over the top of the defence in the 71st minute and blasted his shot past Marc-Andre ter Stegen.
Eric Garcia had earlier been shown a straight red card with just 10 minutes gone when he fouled Takumi Minamino as the last man after a poor pass out from the back by Ter Stegen.
Monaco took the lead soon after when Maghnes Akliouche slotted past Ter Stegen who was rooted to the spot.
Barcelona’s own teenage star Lamine Yamal equalised with his first Champions League goal when he latched on to a long ball and cut inside before drilling a low shot into the bottom corner.
But Ilenikhena’s goal, his first since signing from Royal Antwerp in the summer, condemned Barcelona to an opening defeat.
Vanderson’s strike from the edge of the area was pushed past the post while Minamino had an effort deflected on to the crossbar for the hosts.
It could have been a more emphatic win but Folarin Balogun had a penalty overturned late on following a video assistant referee (VAR) check after he was adjudged to have gone down too easily under the challenges.
Sports
NFF President Ibrahim Gusau Salutes Football Stakeholders At Christmas, Calls for Unity and More Support in 2025
As the festive season unfolds, Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President Ibrahim Gusau has extended heartfelt Christmas greetings to football stakeholders across the nation.
In his Christmas message, Gusau reflected on the importance of unity, gratitude, and dedication within the Nigerian football community. He acknowledged the tireless efforts of stakeholders who have contributed to the growth and development of the sport over the past year.
“This festive season is a time for reflection, gratitude, and celebration of the values that unite us as a football family. Your contributions have been instrumental in shaping the beautiful game in our great nation,” Gusau wrote.
Highlighting key milestones achieved in 2024, Gusau praised advancements in football infrastructure, grassroots development, and the improved competitiveness of Nigeria’s national teams. These successes, he noted, were made possible through collective commitment and support.
The NFF President encouraged stakeholders to embrace the core values of the game—unity, fair play, mutual respect and total support as they look toward a promising future for Nigerian football in 2025. He emphasized that the NFF will need the total support of all Nigerians as the Super Eagles approach the crucial stage of the World Cup qualifiers.
“Let us continue to work together to build a brighter future for Nigerian football, where our talented players can thrive, and our fans can be proud,” he added.
Gusau concluded his message with a wish for a joyous Christmas and a prosperous new year, emphasizing a shared vision of football excellence in 2025 and beyond.
The NFF President’s Christmas message resonates as both a celebration of achievements and a rallying call for unity and support in the Nigerian football community.
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