Kenyan Premier League side Tusker FC have confirmed the signing of experienced Nigerian striker Victor Mbaoma on a one-year contract ahead of the 2026/27 season, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The 29-year-old joins the Brewers from reigning Nigeria Premier Football League champions Remo Stars after an impressive campaign in which he registered 14 goals and four assists across all competitions.

Mbaoma becomes Tusker FC's first signing of the summer as the club strengthens its squad for both domestic and continental competitions.

The move also marks the striker's return to East African football following a successful spell with Rwandan giants APR FC, where he emerged as the league's top scorer with 15 goals while playing a key role in the club's domestic success.

Speaking after completing the transfer, Mbaoma said Tusker's ambition and winning culture convinced him to make the move.

"I am really delighted to be joining Tusker FC. The coach and the management presented the club's project to me, and I was attracted to it," Mbaoma told the club's official website.

"I have also gone back to look at the history of the team, and this is a winning side. The team has an ambition to not only do well locally but also in continental football and that was a big attraction for me."

Tusker head coach Julien Mette welcomed the Nigerian forward, expressing confidence that his experience and goalscoring pedigree would strengthen the squad.

"I am glad to welcome Victor to the team as our first signing. He is an experienced player who I know very well, and I am sure we will make great success together," Mette said during the player's unveiling.

Mbaoma has built a reputation as one of the Nigeria Premier Football League's most consistent forwards, having previously enjoyed successful spells with Akwa United and Enyimba before helping Remo Stars challenge for major honours.

The former NPFL top scorer will now be expected to spearhead Tusker FC's attack as the Kenyan giants target league success and a strong campaign in continental football.

Former Golden Eaglets midfielder Qurib Adetola has completed a move to Finnish champions HJK, signing a contract that will keep him at the club until the end of 2027, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The 18-year-old joins the Finnish giants from Nigerian academy side Derby Football Academy, with HJK confirming the transfer in an official statement released on Monday. The agreement also includes an option to extend his stay until the end of the 2028 season, while the Finnish club paid a transfer fee to secure his services.

In announcing the signing, HJK highlighted Adetola's versatility and potential, describing him as an exciting attacking player capable of operating in midfield or on the wings.

"HJK has signed an agreement with 18-year-old Nigerian player Qurib Adetola," the club stated.

"The Nigerian youth national team player will join HJK from his home country Derby Football Academy. The agreement is until the end of 2027, including an option for the 2028 season. HJK will pay compensation for the transfer."

The club also praised the youngster's technical qualities and pace, noting that his move marks his first experience of European football after progressing through the ranks at Derby Football Academy.

"Adetola is at his best in an attacking role in midfield or as a winger. The young midfielder, who possesses exceptional speed, has spent his entire academy career with the disciplined Derby team, and now he is making his first move to European football."

HJK confirmed that Adetola has initially been assigned to its reserve side, Klubi 04, where he is expected to continue his development before challenging for a place in the senior team.

Sporting director Petri Vuorinen expressed confidence in the Nigerian's ability, describing the timing of the transfer as ideal.

"Adetola arrives in the country exceptionally soon after turning 18, which is excellent timing. He will quickly enter European football," Vuorinen said.

"He is very skilled with the ball in small spaces, and he is also really hardworking and conscientious in defence. He shows a lot of potential when he learns to utilise his speed even better."

The midfielder has already begun training with Klubi 04 after arriving in Finland in mid-June and is expected to be available for selection when the team faces Jippo in the Ykkösliiga on July 11.

Adetola previously represented Nigeria at the 2024 WAFU B U-17 Championship in Accra, Ghana, where he featured for the Golden Eaglets.

Founded in 1907, HJK are Finland's most successful football club, boasting a record 33 league titles. The Helsinki-based side plays its home matches at the 10,770-capacity Töölö Football Stadium, which has been the club's home since 2000.

Promising Nigerian midfielder Popoola Ridwan has completed a permanent move to United Arab Emirates Pro League side Al Wasl, marking another significant milestone in his rapidly progressing career, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The 19-year-old joins the Dubai-based club from Hungarian outfit Kisvárda, less than two years after leaving Nigeria to begin his professional career in Europe.

Ridwan earned his move to Kisvárda in February 2025 following a series of outstanding performances for Lagos-based grassroots side Seamoriow FC, where his displays as a defensive midfielder attracted interest from scouts abroad.

During his time in Hungary, the youngster adapted quickly to senior football and continued his development with composed performances in midfield. His ball-winning ability, work rate and maturity on the ball reportedly caught the attention of several clubs, with Al Wasl eventually securing his signature.

Following the completion of the transfer, Seamoriow FC celebrated the achievement on social media, describing the move as another success story for grassroots football in Nigeria.

"From Seamoriow FC and @olukismetfc to @kisvardamastergood, and now to @alwaslsc. Popoola Ridwan continues to climb," the club posted on X.

"A proud moment for grassroots football and for everyone who made this transfer possible. Big shoutout to @franci.bode for pulling this through."

Ridwan joins one of the most successful clubs in the United Arab Emirates. Al Wasl have won the UAE Pro League title a record-equalling eight times, with their most recent triumph coming during the 2023/24 season.

The club also gained worldwide recognition when Argentine football legend Diego Maradona managed the team between 2011 and 2012.

As Al Wasl prepare for the new campaign, the Nigerian youngster will be aiming to establish himself in the first team and contribute with his energy, defensive awareness and versatility as the club targets domestic honours.

Super Falcons forward Rinsola Babajide believes the expansion of the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) to 16 teams will make the tournament more competitive, but insists Nigeria's ambition of retaining the continental title remains unchanged, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The competition, scheduled to take place in Morocco from July 26 to August 16, will feature 16 nations for the first time in its history. It will also serve as Africa's qualifying tournament for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup in Brazil, adding even greater significance to this year's edition.

Speaking to the Nigeria Football Federation's official website, the AS Roma forward welcomed the tournament's expansion, describing it as a positive development that would increase the level of competition across the continent.

"I think it makes it more exciting. We all know that this year's Women AFCON also serves as a qualifier for the World Cup. Naturally, we all want to qualify," Babajide said.

"I believe it will make the competition more fierce, but our goal stays unchanged."

The winger stressed that regardless of the number of participating teams, the Super Falcons remain fully focused on defending their continental crown.

"Whether we are aiming to be champions of Africa or to qualify for next year's World Cup, the pressure is the same; we want to win. The real pressure comes from ourselves. As professionals and defending champions, we are determined to keep our trophy," she added.

Babajide, who played a key role in Nigeria's successful WAFCON campaign, also reflected on her football journey, highlighting the influence of both England and Nigeria on her development as a player.

The talented attacker explained that her formative years in England provided a strong technical foundation, while representing Nigeria has strengthened her character and resilience.

"I've been fortunate to experience the best of both worlds. England helped develop my game from youth level; I am truly grateful for that," she said.

"My growth continues with Nigeria, and I value that experience deeply. I've learned resilience and professionalism in both environments, making me a better player and person."

The Serie A Femminile champion reaffirmed the Super Falcons' determination to successfully defend their African title, insisting every member of the squad is committed to making the country proud in Morocco.

"We understand what it takes to succeed, and as a team, we will give our all in Morocco to defend our title. We are all committed to making Nigeria proud in Morocco," Babajide concluded.

Nigeria U-23 head coach Eric Chelle has reportedly drawn up a shortlist of 35 foreign-based players eligible to represent the Olympic Eagles as preparations gather pace for the country's next Olympic qualification campaign, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

According to Daily Post, the Malian tactician, who also oversees the Super Eagles, has stepped up plans to build a competitive squad capable of returning Nigeria to the men's football tournament at the Olympic Games after missing the last two editions.

Chelle is understood to be casting his net wide, monitoring talents across the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) and several European leagues in a bid to identify the country's most promising young players.

Among the overseas-based stars reportedly on his radar are newly signed Brighton & Hove Albion winger Zadok Yohanna, RB Leipzig wide man Suleiman Sani, and Famalicão striker Umar Abubakar, all of whom have impressed with their performances at club level.

The reported watchlist also includes Kristiansund BK midfielder Promise Meliga, Slavia Prague's Mubarak Suleiman, Reims forward Hafiz Umar, LASK defender Emmanuel Michael, FK Pardubice midfielder Emmanuel Godwin, and Zalaegerszeg's Akpe Victory.

The extensive list highlights the growing number of young Nigerian talents making their mark across Europe, with players currently plying their trade in England, Germany, Portugal, France, Austria, Norway, the Czech Republic and Hungary.

Chelle is expected to blend the best-performing foreign-based players with outstanding talents from the NPFL as he shapes a squad capable of competing successfully in the forthcoming Olympic qualifiers.

Nigeria last featured in the men's football event at the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro in 2016, where the Olympic Eagles claimed the bronze medal. Since then, the team has failed to qualify for both the Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 Olympic football tournaments.

Although the Nigeria Football Federation has yet to announce an official squad, the reported shortlist offers an early insight into the players being closely monitored by Chelle as he begins preparations for the Olympic Eagles' upcoming assignments and their bid to return Nigeria to football's biggest multi-sport event.

Former Democratic Republic of Congo international Yannick Bolasie has criticised FIFA's decision to overturn Folarin Balogun's automatic suspension, arguing that a similar ruling at the Africa Cup of Nations would have sparked widespread backlash, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The controversy followed FIFA's decision to allow the United States striker to remain eligible for the Round of 16 clash against Belgium despite receiving a red card earlier in the tournament.

Rather than enforcing the standard one-match suspension, FIFA's Disciplinary Committee opted to place Balogun on a one-year probationary period under Article 27 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, effectively postponing the sanction and permitting him to feature in the knockout fixture.

Reacting to the decision on X, Bolasie questioned what he believes is an inconsistency in the way football competitions are treated across different regions.

"All I'll say is if this was AFCON and they let a man play after he got a red card, the nonsense being said would be crazy," the former DR Congo winger wrote.

The decision has also generated criticism in Belgium, with the Royal Belgian Football Federation expressing surprise at FIFA's interpretation of its disciplinary regulations.

In a statement released on Sunday, the Belgian federation noted that suspensions following red cards are generally automatic during major tournaments and confirmed it was examining the ruling while considering all available options for a formal response.

Although such decisions are uncommon, this is not the first instance during the current World Cup cycle. Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo also benefited from a similar arrangement after FIFA deferred a three-match suspension arising from an incident during the qualification campaign, allowing him to participate in Portugal's opening World Cup fixtures.

FIFA's latest ruling has reignited debate over the consistency of its disciplinary procedures, with critics arguing that exceptions of this nature could create the perception of unequal treatment and undermine confidence in the governing body's application of its regulations across international competitions.

Turkish champions Galatasaray have intensified their pursuit of Nigeria-born midfielder Lesley Ugochukwu by submitting an offer worth around €30 million to Burnley, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The 21-year-old, who is the nephew of former Super Eagles defender Onyekachi Apam, has emerged as one of Galatasaray's top transfer targets as the club looks to strengthen its squad ahead of the new season.

According to reports from Turkey, discussions between the two clubs have also included the possibility of a loan deal with an option to make the move permanent, although Galatasaray are believed to have made it clear that they will not increase their current offer.

Ugochukwu is reportedly keen on the prospect of playing UEFA Champions League football, making a move to the Turkish giants an attractive option if an agreement can be reached.

The France youth international enjoyed an impressive campaign with Burnley last season, featuring in 38 matches across all competitions while contributing three goals and two assists from midfield.

Despite Galatasaray's strong interest, Burnley are yet to make a final decision on the proposal. The Premier League club remains in a strong negotiating position, with Ugochukwu under contract until 2030.

The midfielder is currently valued at approximately €22 million, and Burnley's response in the coming days is expected to determine whether the transfer negotiations progress further.

Benin U-17 women's head coach Idah Azonsou has expressed confidence that her side can overturn their first-leg deficit against Nigeria's Flamingos despite suffering a 3-2 defeat in the opening leg of the final qualifying round for the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The Young Amazons will host the return leg on Saturday, July 11, at the Stade de Kégué in Lomé, with Azonsou insisting the race for qualification remains wide open.

Although disappointed by the result, the Benin coach praised her players for their determination and performance against one of Africa's strongest teams at the age-grade level.

"First of all, it was a very difficult match. We all know that Nigeria are one of the best teams in West Africa and on the continent at this age level. We took the lead, they came back to go ahead, then we equalised at 2-2 before conceding a third goal," Azonsou said after the match.

"I want to congratulate my players. I am satisfied with their performance. They played well against an experienced team. However, we made a few mistakes that cost us goals. Those are areas we will work on and correct. The first leg is over, but qualification is still open. There are still 90 minutes to play."

Azonsou acknowledged that defensive lapses proved costly but believes her side can learn from the encounter and improve ahead of the decisive second leg.

The Benin coach also drew confidence from her team's impressive home record during the qualifiers, insisting the Young Amazons have what it takes to complete the comeback in front of their supporters.

"As I said, this was only the first leg. We have seen Nigeria's strengths, but we have also identified the areas where we need to improve. We will work on what didn't go well today so that we can approach the return leg in much better conditions," she added.

"Everything is still possible. We are still in the race, and we have another 90 minutes in Lomé to try and secure qualification."

Nigeria hold a slender advantage heading into the return fixture, with the winner on aggregate earning a place at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup.

Defending champions Nigeria's Super Falcons will commence their final preparations for the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) when they open a week-long training camp in Mohammedia, Morocco, on Wednesday, July 15, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The team will use the coastal city as its training base before relocating to Rabat, where all three of Nigeria's Group C matches will be played during the continental tournament.

Head coach Justine Madugu is also expected to announce his final squad for the competition before the delegation departs for Morocco.

The Super Falcons head into the tournament in high spirits after recording consecutive victories over Senegal in international friendly matches last month. The two wins allowed the technical crew to assess the squad and fine-tune tactical plans ahead of the championship.

Nigeria, the most successful nation in the history of the competition, will aim to win a record-extending 11th WAFCON title and is widely regarded as one of the favourites to reclaim continental glory.

Madugu's side will begin their Group C campaign against Malawi at the Al Madina Stadium in Rabat on Tuesday, July 28.

Their second fixture will see them face regional rivals Zambia at the same venue on Saturday, August 1, in what is expected to be one of the standout matches of the group stage.

The Super Falcons will round off their group campaign against Egypt at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat on Wednesday, August 5.

With the top two teams in each group progressing to the quarter-finals, Nigeria will be determined to successfully defend their title and further cement their legacy as Africa's most successful women's national team.

Super Eagles striker Cyriel Dessers says he is determined to return stronger after recovering from the injury that prematurely ended his 2025/26 season, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The 31-year-old sustained the injury during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in January, forcing him to miss the remainder of the campaign in what was the first major injury setback of his professional career.

Having resumed training with Greek Super League side Panathinaikos ahead of the new season, Dessers is now focused on regaining full fitness and making a successful return to competitive football.

"I am working extremely hard to be in top shape this season. Giving it my all, scoring goals, winning matches, and lifting trophies," Dessers told BN DeStem.

"I expect to be in top shape by the start of the league in mid-August. Hopefully, I'll get some minutes in the European qualifiers before that."

The Nigerian international joined Panathinaikos from Scottish Premiership club Rangers last summer and made a promising start before injury interrupted his campaign.

Despite his limited appearances, Dessers contributed two goals and one assist in five league matches for the Greek giants.

Reflecting on his difficult spell on the sidelines, the striker admitted it had been a challenging experience but expressed gratitude for the support he has received from the club and its supporters.

"It has been difficult, a season with many injuries. For the first time in my career, actually, so I had to get used to that," he said.

"Especially because the club paid a nice transfer fee for me, I just want to give something back to them. For the fans too, of course. I received so much love from them, and it feels difficult that you can't give that back."

Dessers will now be hoping to put his injury troubles behind him and play a key role for Panathinaikos as they compete domestically and in European competitions during the 2026/27 season.

Turkish Super Lig side Trabzonspor have reportedly filed a complaint with FIFA against Saudi Pro League club Al Ahli over alleged illegal contact with Nigerian striker Paul Onuachu, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

According to reports, Trabzonspor believe Al Ahli approached the Super Eagles forward without following the appropriate procedures required under FIFA's regulations for negotiating with a player who is still under contract.

The Turkish club has consequently referred the matter to world football's governing body, alleging that the Saudi side breached the rules governing player transfers and contractual negotiations.

While the complaint is being considered, Al Ahli are said to be pressing ahead with their pursuit of the Nigerian international and are reportedly prepared to offer him a lucrative deal worth approximately €450,000 per week.

The proposed contract underlines the Saudi club's determination to strengthen their squad ahead of the new season by adding the experienced striker to their attacking options.

It remains to be seen how FIFA will respond to Trabzonspor's complaint and whether the ongoing dispute will affect a potential move for Onuachu during the current transfer window.

Super Eagles midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru has emerged as a transfer target for newly promoted Serie A side Venezia, who are reportedly exploring the possibility of signing the Lazio midfielder ahead of the 2026/27 season, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The 25-year-old, a product of Manchester City's academy, joined Lazio in the summer of 2024 after impressing during his spell with Turkish club Hatayspor.

Although he has yet to fully establish himself under either Marco Baroni or Maurizio Sarri, Dele-Bashiru has produced several eye-catching performances during his time in the Italian capital.

Across the last two seasons, the Nigerian international has registered seven goals and four assists in 57 appearances for the Biancocelesti, highlighting his ability to contribute from midfield despite limited opportunities.

With his contract running until the summer of 2028, Lazio are reportedly open to listening to suitable offers as they continue to reshape their squad ahead of the new campaign.

According to Lazio insider Damiano Er Faina, Venezia have identified Dele-Bashiru as a potential reinforcement following their promotion to the Italian top flight after winning the Serie B title.

The newly promoted club are eager to strengthen their squad in a bid to avoid an immediate return to the second division and have already bolstered their midfield by signing former Lazio player Toma Basic on a free transfer after the Croatian declined a contract extension.

Should Venezia decide to pursue the Nigeria international, they will need to negotiate an agreement with Lazio, who are expected to demand a reasonable fee for the versatile midfielder.

Nigeria's Super Falcons will open their training camp in Morocco on July 15 as they step up preparations for the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), with the continental tournament set to kick off on July 26, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The nine-time African champions will spend one week in the coastal city of Mohammedia, where head coach Justine Madugu and his squad will complete the final phase of their preparations before moving to Rabat for the tournament.

Located along Morocco's Atlantic coastline, Mohammedia, renowned for beaches such as Sablettes, Manesmane and Monica Beach, will serve as the Falcons' training base as they fine-tune tactics and fitness ahead of their title defence.

Nigeria head into the competition on the back of a productive series of warm-up matches, including an international friendly against the Indomitable Lionesses of Cameroon and two preparatory fixtures against Senegal in Ikenne, Ogun State, last month.

After completing their training camp, the Super Falcons are expected to make the short journey by road to Rabat, where they will remain throughout the group stage of the competition.

The defending champions have been drawn in Group C alongside Zambia, Egypt and Malawi, with all three of their group-stage matches scheduled to be played in Rabat.

Their fixtures are:

July 28: Nigeria vs Malawi, Al Madina Stadium, Rabat

August 1: Nigeria vs Zambia, Al Madina Stadium, Rabat

August 5: Nigeria vs Egypt, Olympic Stadium, Rabat

The expanded 16-team WAFCON will also serve as Africa's qualification tournament for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup in Brazil, with the four semi-finalists earning automatic qualification for the global showpiece.

Nigeria's representatives in the 2026/27 CAF inter-club competitions will play their home matches away from their traditional stadiums after their venues failed to secure approval from the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The affected clubs are Rangers International, Rivers United and Shooting Stars, all of whom will now be required to adopt alternative venues for their home fixtures in the CAF Champions League and CAF Confederation Cup.

CAF has approved only three stadiums in Nigeria to host continental club matches. They are the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, the Moshood Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta, and the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne.

As a result, the three clubs are expected to select one of the approved venues as their temporary home ground for their respective continental campaigns.

The decision means the teams will be forced to play in unfamiliar environments and away from their traditional fan bases, a situation that could affect the home advantage they would ordinarily enjoy during the 2026/27 CAF inter-club competitions.

Former Flying Eagles midfielder Daniel Daga has been cleared of a sexual assault charge by Norway's Frostating Court of Appeal, opening the door for his return to first-team football with Molde FK, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The 19-year-old Nigerian midfielder had previously been sentenced to six months' imprisonment in March 2026 after a lower court found him guilty of committing a sexual act without consent over an incident alleged to have taken place in April 2025. Formal charges were filed against him in December 2025.

Following the initial conviction, Molde FK suspended Daga indefinitely from all first-team activities while awaiting the outcome of the appeal process.

However, in a statement released on Thursday, the Norwegian club confirmed that the Frostating Court of Appeal had unanimously overturned the conviction, although it noted that the ruling is not yet legally binding.

"Daniel Daga is unanimously acquitted in the criminal case that has been dealt with by the Frostating Court of Appeal. Molde FK takes note of the verdict, although the judgment is not yet legally binding," the club stated.

Molde also explained that it had continuously reviewed the situation in accordance with its responsibilities as Daga's employer throughout the legal proceedings.

"Since the indictment was filed, Molde FK has made ongoing assessments based on the situation and the club's responsibilities as an employer. Now that the Court of Appeal's judgment has been delivered and Daniel Daga has been acquitted, we consider the employment situation to be clarified, and Daniel will be available for selection for Molde FK going forward," the statement added.

The ruling clears the way for Daga to resume his professional career with the Norwegian club, subject to the judgment becoming legally final.

Nigeria Premier Football League side Niger Tornadoes have completed the composition of their technical crew for the 2026/27 season following the appointments of Olatunji Abideen Baruwa and Bello Mohammed as the club's goalkeeper coaches, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Baruwa joins the Minna-based club as First Goalkeeper Coach after leaving Nasarawa United, where he built a strong reputation for developing goalkeepers and improving the team's performances between the sticks.

The experienced coach is expected to bring his wealth of knowledge to the "Ikon Allah Boys" as they intensify preparations for the new Nigeria Premier Football League campaign.

Niger Tornadoes also confirmed the appointment of Bello Mohammed as Second Goalkeeper Coach, completing the goalkeeping unit within the club's technical department.

The club stated that the appointments bring an end to the recruitment process for the technical crew ahead of the 2026/27 season, with all key positions now filled.

The management expressed confidence that the assembled coaching staff possess the experience, technical expertise and professionalism needed to guide the team through a successful campaign.

With their backroom staff now fully in place, Niger Tornadoes will shift their attention to pre-season preparations as they aim to build a competitive squad capable of achieving their objectives in the upcoming NPFL season.

Enugu Rangers head coach Fidelis Ilechukwu has arrived safely in Scotland to begin his UEFA B coaching course, taking another important step in his commitment to continuous professional development, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The highly regarded tactician, who also serves as an assistant coach of Nigeria's Super Eagles, is furthering his coaching education as he looks to strengthen his technical expertise with an internationally recognised qualification.

Ilechukwu has consistently demonstrated a commitment to self-improvement throughout his coaching career, having previously earned both the CAF C and CAF B coaching licences.

The UEFA B programme is expected to equip the Rangers boss with advanced coaching techniques, tactical knowledge and modern football management skills, further enhancing his credentials on the international stage.

Regarded as one of the brightest coaching talents in Nigerian football, Ilechukwu has built a strong reputation through his achievements in the Nigeria Premier Football League and his contributions to the Super Eagles' technical crew.

The latest coaching qualification is expected to broaden his career prospects while reinforcing his ambition to compete at the highest levels of the profession, both in Nigeria and abroad.

Nigerian clubs Rangers, Rivers United and Shooting Stars will begin their quests for continental success in September after the Confederation of African Football (CAF) unveiled the fixture schedule for the 2026/27 CAF Champions League and CAF Confederation Cup, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

According to the timetable released by CAF, the opening preliminary round of both competitions will be played from September 4 to 6, 2026, with the return legs scheduled for September 11 to 13.

Teams that progress will advance to the second preliminary round, where the first-leg matches will take place between October 16 and 18, while the decisive return fixtures are slated for October 23 to 25.

The group stage of both tournaments is expected to get underway at the end of November, with clubs across the continent battling for continental honours.

CAF has also retained its enhanced prize money structure, with the winners of the CAF Champions League set to receive $6 million, while the CAF Confederation Cup champions will earn $4 million.

Nigeria will be represented by Rangers and Rivers United in the CAF Champions League after both clubs secured qualification through their performances in the Nigeria Premier Football League.

In the CAF Confederation Cup, Shooting Stars will fly the Nigerian flag alongside the winners of the 2026 President Federation Cup, completing the country's quartet of representatives in continental competition.

The Nigerian clubs will be aiming to make a strong impression and improve the country's standing in African club football when the new continental season gets underway.

Super Eagles midfielder Usman Mohammed has completed a return to Israeli Premier League side Maccabi Bnei Reineh after signing a two-year contract as a free agent, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The experienced midfielder rejoins Lior Reuven's team following the expiration of his contract with fellow Israeli club Ironi Tiberias, bringing an end to his spell with the club.

Mohammed is no stranger to Maccabi Bnei Reineh, having previously represented the club between 2023 and 2025. During his first stint, he established himself as a key figure in midfield, making 63 league appearances and scoring three goals while earning a reputation for his consistency and leadership.

His return is expected to provide a significant boost to the club as preparations continue for the 2026/27 Israeli Premier League season.

The former Taraba United midfielder has built an extensive career since leaving Nigeria, featuring for clubs across Europe and Asia. Renowned for his composure in possession, accurate passing and tireless work rate, Mohammed is expected to add quality and experience to Maccabi Bnei Reineh's midfield.

At international level, the 32-year-old enjoyed success with Nigeria's U-23 team, helping the country secure a bronze medal at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro. He has also represented the Super Eagles at senior level, further underlining his wealth of experience.

By returning to familiar surroundings, Mohammed will be aiming to play a leading role as Maccabi Bnei Reineh seek to build on their recent progress and enjoy another competitive campaign in the Israeli top flight.

Egypt have named a 28-player provisional squad for a training camp as preparations gather pace ahead of the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

According to reports from Cairo, the selected players are expected to report to camp in the Egyptian capital on July 12, where they will begin intensive preparations under the supervision of the national team's technical crew.

The early camping programme is designed to give the coaches ample time to assess the squad, improve tactical cohesion and ensure the players are in peak condition before the team departs for Morocco.

Egypt have been drawn in a competitive Group C alongside defending champions Nigeria, Zambia and Malawi, with all four teams aiming to secure qualification for the knockout stage.

The Pharaohs will be hoping to mount a strong challenge at the continental tournament and believe the extended preparation period will enhance their chances of making a positive impact.

One of the most anticipated fixtures in the group will see Egypt face Nigeria's Super Falcons, who enter the competition as defending champions and one of the favourites to lift the trophy once again.

The encounter is expected to play a significant role in shaping the outcome of Group C, with both nations eager to begin their WAFCON 2026 campaign on a winning note.