Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle has recalled several injured players and handed Slavia Prague midfielder Mubarak Suleiman his first senior international call-up for the Super Eagles’ 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying double-header against Tanzania.

Captain Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, Calvin Bassey, Ademola Lookman and Moses Simon are among the established names included in the 25-man squad.

Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has retained his place, while Olaoluwa Aina, Taiwo Awoniyi and Akor Adams have also been selected.

Chelle has brought back Tochukwu Nnadi, Alhassan Yusuf and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru after their recoveries from injury. Francis Uzoho is another returnee, with the goalkeeper included alongside Nwabali and Arthur Okonkwo.

Nigeria will face Tanzania’s Taifa Stars at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday, November 13, before travelling to Dar es Salaam for the return fixture on Tuesday, November 17.

The Super Eagles are second in Group L and will be seeking maximum points from the two matches as they attempt to strengthen their qualification prospects.

Only one qualifying place is available from the group. The 2027 Africa Cup of Nations finals will be co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.

Nigeria squad

Goalkeepers: Arthur Okonkwo (Charlton Athletic, England); Francis Uzoho (Omonia FC, Cyprus); Stanley Nwabali (Chippa United, South Africa)

Defenders: Bruno Onyemaechi (Olympiakos, Greece); Olaoluwa Aina (Nottingham Forest, England); Benjamin Fredricks (Brentford FC, England); Oluwasemilogo Ajayi (Hull City, England); Calvin Bassey (Fulham FC, England); Chibuike Nwaiwu (Trabzonspor FC, Turkey); Bright Osayi-Samuel (Birmingham FC, England); Abdullahi Bewene (Banik Ostrava, Czechia)

Midfielders: Wilfred Ndidi (Besiktas FC, Turkey); Alex Iwobi (Fulham FC, England); Alhassan Yusuf (New England Revolution, USA); Tochukwu Nnadi (Olympic Marseille, France); Samson Tijani (FK Podbrezova, Slovakia); Fisayo Dele-Bashiru (SS Lazio, Italy); Mubarak Suleiman (SK Slavia Prague, Czechia)

Forwards: Moses Simon (Paris FC, France); Taiwo Awoniyi (Coventry City, England); Akor Adams (Venezia FC, Italy); Ademola Lookman (Atletico Madrid, Spain); Tolu Arokodare (Ajax FC, The Netherlands); Moses Usor (LASK FC, Austria)

Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen has undergone successful surgery on a knee injury sustained during Tuesday night’s UEFA Champions League match against Bundesliga side Stuttgart at RAMS Park.

The 27-year-old Nigeria international had the operation at Maslak Ac?badem Hospital, with Galatasaray club doctor Yener Ince carrying out the procedure.

Galatasaray confirmed the news in a statement, adding that Osimhen’s recovery would be assessed on a daily basis by the club’s medical team. The Turkish club has not yet provided a timescale for the striker’s return to competitive football.

“Our player Victor Osimhen underwent successful surgery today at Maslak Ac?badem Hospital, performed by our club doctor, Yener Ince,” Galatasaray said.

“Our player’s condition will be monitored through daily assessments, while his treatment will continue under the supervision of our medical team. We wish Victor Osimhen a speedy recovery and hope he returns to action as soon as possible.”

Osimhen is expected to begin his rehabilitation after the operation. However, Galatasaray have not indicated how long he will be unavailable or when he might resume playing.

The injury is also expected to prevent him from featuring for Nigeria in their upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying double-header against Tanzania’s Taifa Stars.

His absence would be a significant setback for the Super Eagles as they prepare for the two fixtures.

Ikorodu City face Inter Lagos on 8 November at 15:00 GMT, with both teams looking to strengthen their position in the league after contrasting runs of form in their last five matches.

Ikorodu City have won, drawn, drawn, lost and won across their previous five games, while Inter Lagos have recorded three defeats, one draw and one victory. The recent results give the home side the stronger momentum before a match that could have an important effect on the early league picture.

The key statistics of the players of both teams this season:

Assists: (Ikorodu City) — 0 assists, (Inter Lagos) — 0 assists.Goalkeepers saves: (Ikorodu City) — 0, (Inter Lagos) — 0Tackles: (Ikorodu City) — 0, (Inter Lagos) — 0.Most encounters won: (Ikorodu City) — 0, (Inter Lagos) — 0.

Top 5 scorers this season:

(0)

(0)

Team statistics:

Ikorodu City’s latest sequence, WDDLW, shows a team that has recovered from a difficult spell. Their most recent victory will provide confidence, particularly before a home fixture against an Inter Lagos side that has struggled for consistency away from home.

The five previous matches played by the teams:

Ikorodu City — WDDLWInter Lagos — LLLWD

Inter Lagos’ LLLWD record tells a different story. The visitors have taken only one win from their past five matches, although their latest result was positive. That draw ended a run of three successive defeats and could give them a platform to improve their performance at Ikorodu City.

According to home statistics this season, Ikorodu City scores more goals and concedes more in the following intervals:

IntervalsGoal Scored, %Goals conceded, %0-1516.67%22.22%16-30 16.67%33.33%31-4525.00%22.22% 46-608.33%11.11%61-7525.00%11.11%76-908.33%91-105

Inter Lagos has the following time frames of scoring and conceding goals:

Intervals

Goal Scored, %

Goals conceded, %

0-15

16.67%

18.75%

16-30

33.33%

31.25%

31-45

33.33%

18.75%

46-60

16.67%

6.25%

61-75

25.00%

76-90

91-105

Head-to-head stats:

Teams

Games

Win

Draws

Losses

H

A

H

A

H

A

Ikorodu City

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

Inter Lagos

0

0

0

0

0

0

Probabilities before the match:

Ikorodu City

Inter Lagos

67.5%

Winning the game67.5%

70%Attack potential

70%50%

Potential in defense50%

0%Strength against each other

0%0%

Goal Potential0%

Summary: the probability of Inter Lagos winning – 10%, draw – 45%, loss – 45%. Thus Ikorodu City, most likely, win (win or draw)

Goal Forecast:Ikorodu City, is likely to score -2.5 goals, Inter Lagos is likely to score no more than -1.5.

The bookmaker odds for this match:

Home win

Draw

Away win

0

0

0

Save the date

The match between the teams Ikorodu City and Inter Lagos will take place on November 08 at 15:00 (GMT) at the stadium Mobolaji Johnson Arena.

Galatasaray have confirmed that Nigeria striker Victor Osimhen has undergone successful surgery following the injury he sustained in their UEFA Champions League match against VfB Stuttgart.

The operation took place on Saturday at Maslak Ac?badem Hospital and was led by Galatasaray club doctor Yener Ince.

The Turkish champions said Osimhen’s recovery would be closely monitored, with the striker receiving daily assessments from the club’s medical team.

“Our player Victor Osimhen underwent successful surgery today at Maslak Ac?badem Hospital, performed by our club doctor, Yener Ince,” Galatasaray said in an official statement.

“Our player's condition will be monitored through daily assessments, and his treatment will continue under the supervision of our club's medical team.

“We wish our player Victor Osimhen a speedy recovery and hope he gets well as soon as possible.”

Osimhen was injured during Galatasaray’s Champions League encounter with German Bundesliga side VfB Stuttgart on Tuesday.

The injury is expected to rule the Super Eagles striker out of Nigeria’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying double-header against Tanzania.

Bayelsa United technical adviser Abdu Maikaba says his side are ready to challenge for promotion back to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) after their relegation last season.

The Yenagoa club recorded only one defeat in 15 pre-season matches, scoring 45 goals as they prepared for their campaign in the Nigeria National League (NNL).

Maikaba believes that record has strengthened the squad’s confidence and demonstrated the attacking quality available to Bayelsa United, also known as the Prosperity Boys.

“Our pre-season performances have given us great confidence. Scoring 45 goals in 15 matches is a testament to the attacking quality within this squad,” Maikaba told the club’s media.

He said the team’s improved understanding and collective determination would be important as they pursue an immediate return to the top flight.

“However, we know that the real test begins on Sunday. We are fully focused on starting the season strongly and working collectively towards our ultimate objective of returning Bayelsa United to the NPFL,” he added.

Bayelsa United will begin their promotion campaign against Abia Comets in their opening NNL fixture on Sunday.

Maikaba and his players will hope to carry their productive pre-season form into that match as they begin their bid to return to the Nigerian top flight at the first attempt.

Japan captain Honoka Yotsumoto says her team are determined to win the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup and honour the players who helped establish the country’s record in the competition.

The Little Nadeshiko will appear in the final for the fourth time, having previously reached the decisive match in 2010, 2014 and 2016.

Japan’s only previous triumph came in 2014, when they beat Spain 2-0 in San Jose, Costa Rica, to secure their first title.

Their opponents this time will be Nigeria’s Flamingos, who are chasing a historic maiden FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup victory after an impressive campaign in Morocco.

Nigeria have been among the leading sides in the tournament. They began with a notable 3-1 group-stage win over defending champions DPR Korea, before producing the same scoreline against Brazil in the semi-finals to reach the final.

Yotsumoto determined to honour Japan’s former players

Japan’s captain believes the team’s motivation extends beyond their own ambitions, with the squad carrying the hopes of those who represented the country before them.

“We carry the hopes and feelings of the players who came before us. We want to honour them by bringing the trophy back to Japan,” Yotsumoto told FIFA.

Japan will draw on the memory of their 2014 success as they prepare for a demanding final against a Nigeria side full of confidence.

The Flamingos are seeking to claim Nigeria’s first-ever FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup title, while Japan aim to add a second crown to the one they won in San Jose 12 years ago.

Seven players have secured places in Nigeria’s final U-23 squad for the upcoming two-legged 2028 Olympic Games qualifying tie against the Democratic Republic of Congo, reports Nigeriasoccernet.com.

The players emerged from a group of 24 NPFL-based footballers who attended a two-week training camp in Ikenne, Ogun State, as the coaching crew assessed their performances ahead of the crucial fixtures.

Following the selection exercise, the remaining 17 players were released on Saturday morning to return to their respective clubs and prepare for this weekend’s NPFL matches.

The seven players retained for the Olympic Eagles squad are Aderemi Adeoye, Attata Michael, Clinton Andy, Muiz Adeleke, Odinaka Alfred, Ochobi Elias and Sugau Aliyu.

17 players released

The 17 players who did not make the final selection and have returned to their clubs are:

Zachariah Timothy

Igwilo Chimobi

Wonah Williams

Olaniyan Gafar

Shuaibu Sanni

Simeon Habila

Eventus Jude

Zion Hillary

Igboke Keneth

Samuel Okechukwu

Lucky Orabo

Salihu Mohammed

Subi Ebitimi Gift

Harcourt Ebenezer

Adeoye Jacob

Oputa Chibueze

Freedom Marvelous

The seven selected players will continue preparations with the Olympic Eagles as Nigeria intensifies its build-up for the encounter against DR Congo.

The two-legged contest is an important stage in the country's quest to qualify for the men's football tournament at the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.

FIFA has appointed an all-North American officiating crew, featuring three Americans and two Canadians, for Saturday’s 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup final between Nigeria and Japan, Nigeriasoccernet.com can report.

The decisive encounter is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. West African Time at Pitch 3 of the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Morocco, with American referee Natalie Simon selected to oversee proceedings.

Simon will be assisted by compatriots Katarzyna Wasiak and Kali Smith, while Canada's Carly Shaw-McLaren has been named as the fourth official.

Another Canadian, Melissa Snedden, will serve as the reserve assistant referee.

The complete list of match officials is as follows:

Referee: Natalie Simon (USA)

Assistant Referee 1: Katarzyna Wasiak (USA)

Assistant Referee 2: Kali Smith (USA)

Fourth Official: Carly Shaw-McLaren (Canada)

Reserve Assistant Referee: Melissa Snedden (Canada)

Saturday's final offers Nigeria's Flamingos an opportunity to secure their first FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup title and become the first African nation to win the competition.

The Nigerian team will face a strong Japanese side in a contest that will determine the new world champions.

Having fought their way into the final, the Flamingos are now one victory away from achieving a historic milestone for Nigerian football and the African women's game.

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle’s proposed contract extension could be closer to completion after FIFA approves a Normalisation Committee to oversee the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), reports Nigeriasoccernet.com.

According to Sports Unlimited, the committee is expected to assume the federation’s board responsibilities and handle major administrative decisions, including formalising Chelle’s proposed new deal.

A source quoted by the publication said the committee would have the authority to perform the functions previously assigned to the NFF board.

"The Normalisation Committee will function as a full board and perform all the responsibilities assigned to the board, including signing Eric Chelle's new contract," the source told Sports Unlimited.

Chelle’s proposed extension reportedly includes an increase in his monthly salary to $75,000, alongside the responsibility of leading Nigeria’s U-23 team in their bid to qualify for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.

The agreement was reportedly reached between the coach, the NFF and the National Sports Commission before the resignation of former NFF president Ibrahim Gusau, General Secretary Dr Mohammed Sanusi and other executive committee members disrupted the process.

FIFA approved the establishment of a Normalisation Committee on October 22, with FIFA and the Confederation of African Football expected to jointly appoint its members. The committee is expected to oversee the federation until it completes its assigned tasks, with May 31, 2027, set as the latest date for its tenure to end.

Chelle’s proposed contract extension has remained unsigned despite the reported agreement on its financial terms and additional responsibilities.

His initial two-year contract, which began in 2025, is scheduled to expire at the end of 2026, resolving the NFF leadership situation important to determining his long-term future with the Super Eagles.

The Franco-Malian coach will also be looking to settle his contractual situation as Nigeria prepares for their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying double-header against Tanzania.

Nigeria’s U-23 national team, the Olympic Eagles, continued their preparations for the 2028 Olympic Games qualifiers with a 3-1 victory over Nationwide League One side Grassrunners FC at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne, reports Nigeriasoccernet.com.

The friendly provided another opportunity for the coaching crew to assess the players and work on the team's tactical approach ahead of their two-legged qualifying encounter against the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Muiz Adeleke gave Nigeria the lead in the 11th minute, putting the Olympic Eagles in front early in the contest.

The advantage remained at one goal until the 56th minute, when Habila Simeon found the net to increase Nigeria's lead.

Jude Otowowor made it 3-0 nine minutes later with a powerful effort from about 20 yards, further strengthening the Olympic Eagles' control of the match.

Grassrunners FC reduced the deficit in the 82nd minute after Akani Fadel converted a penalty, but Nigeria maintained their two-goal advantage until the final whistle.

The 3-1 result gives the Olympic Eagles another positive outing as they continue their build-up towards the decisive Olympic qualifying campaign.

Full-time: Olympic Eagles 3-1 Grassrunners FC

Goal scorers:

11' Muiz Adeleke (Olympic Eagles)

56' Habila Simeon (Olympic Eagles)

65' Jude Otowowor (Olympic Eagles)

82' Akani Fadel (Grassrunners FC, penalty)

Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen is expected to undergo surgery on his left knee on Saturday after sustaining an injury during Galatasaray’s UEFA Champions League match against VfB Stuttgart, ruling him out of Nigeria’s upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying fixtures against Tanzania, Nigeriasoccernet.com can report.

The 27-year-old completed the full 90 minutes of Galatasaray’s 2-0 victory over the Bundesliga club on Tuesday, despite picking up the injury during the encounter.

Subsequent medical examinations, including an MRI scan, reportedly revealed a loose body in his left knee, prompting the Turkish champions to schedule an operation for Saturday.

Galatasaray confirmed the development in a statement released on Friday and disclosed that the Nigerian forward would also miss their forthcoming league fixture against Amed SK.

The club said: “In the UEFA Champions League match we played against VfB Stuttgart, our player Victor Osimhen sustained a strain in his left knee, and MRI examinations detected a loose body.”

Osimhen’s absence will be a significant blow to Nigeria ahead of their two meetings with Tanzania in the 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign.

The Super Eagles are scheduled to host the Taifa Stars in Uyo on November 13 before travelling to Dar es Salaam for the return fixture on November 17.

The injury means Nigeria will have to consider alternative attacking options for both encounters, with the national team missing one of its most influential forwards.

Attention will now turn to Osimhen’s recovery and the outcome of Saturday’s surgery, as the Super Eagles hope the striker can return to full fitness without further complications.

Nigeria’s Flamingos will attempt to make history on Saturday when they take on Japan’s Little Nadeshiko in the final of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Rabat, Morocco, reports Nigeriasoccernet.com.

A victory would make Nigeria the first African country to win the women’s competition, adding to the nation’s record of success in the men’s U-17 World Cup and marking a significant milestone for African football.

The final will take place at Pitch 3 of the Complexe Mohammed VI, where the Nigerian youngsters will be looking to complete an impressive recovery from their opening-day defeat and claim their first global title at this level.

The Flamingos have expressed their determination to win the trophy and dedicate the achievement to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and millions of Nigerian supporters.

Flamingos’ remarkable recovery

Nigeria’s route to the final has been built on resilience and steady improvement. They began the tournament with a 2-1 loss to Poland but responded with a victory over Puerto Rico before producing one of their most impressive performances, a 3-1 triumph over defending champions Korea DPR.

That result secured their place in the knockout stage as Group B runners-up and gave the team momentum heading into the elimination rounds.

The Flamingos defeated Mexico 2-1 in the Round of 16 before edging Venezuela in the quarter-finals. They then delivered a commanding display against Brazil, winning 3-1 in the semi-final to book their place in the title decider.

Nigeria’s attacking performance against Brazil was particularly impressive, with the team recording 30 attempts on goal and creating several opportunities before their opponents scored a late consolation.

The victory further demonstrated the attacking threat Nigeria have developed throughout the competition.

Nigeria’s tournament pedigree

The Flamingos will also draw confidence from the country's history in the competition. Nigeria have scored 115 goals across their appearances since the tournament began in 2008.

The country missed the 2018 edition in Uruguay after losing to Cameroon on the away-goals rule in the final round of African qualifying.

Japan, however, arrived in the final with an equally impressive history.

Japan pose a serious challenge

The Little Nadeshiko booked their place in the final after a dramatic semi-final against Korea DPR. A late own goal by Korean defender Won Sol-gyong forced the contest into a penalty shootout, where Japan secured victory.

Japan have scored 150 goals in the history of the competition, the highest tally by any participating nation. They are also among the two teams, alongside New Zealand, to have featured in every edition.

Saturday's final will be Japan's fourth appearance at this stage. They won the title in 2014 after defeating Spain 2-0 in Costa Rica, having previously finished runners-up in 2010 and 2016.

Despite Japan's experience, Nigeria will approach the encounter with confidence after eliminating Korea DPR and Brazil on their way to the final.

Eight Flamingos players on the scoresheet

Nigeria's attacking strength has been reflected in the spread of goals across the squad. The Flamingos have scored 12 goals in the tournament, with eight different players finding the net.

Oluebube Umejiaku leads the team's scoring chart with three goals, while Awawu Bashiru and Oluwakemi Adegbuyi have scored twice each.

Kanyinsola Yusuf, Queen Joseph, Mary Dunstan, Precious Oscar and Azeezat Oduntan have also contributed goals, underlining the team's ability to find attacking solutions from different positions.

Captain Azeezat Oduntan has been another important figure, providing leadership and composure throughout the campaign. She also converted a late penalty in the quarter-final against Venezuela, helping Nigeria secure their place in the last four.

Busari's tactical decisions pay off

Head coach Hakeem Busari and his technical crew have received credit for the team's progress, particularly their ability to adjust personnel and tactics according to the demands of different matches.

One of the standout decisions came ahead of the semi-final against Brazil, when midfielder Awawu Bashiru was included in the starting line-up.

Despite having accumulated only 73 minutes as a substitute before that encounter, Bashiru was selected ahead of attacking midfielder Tosin Rafiu and responded by scoring twice in Nigeria's 3-1 victory.

NFF, Federal Government officials expected in Rabat

Acting Nigeria Football Federation General Secretary, Dr Emmanuel Ikpeme, has expressed confidence in the Flamingos' ability to overcome Japan and win the competition.

Ikpeme, who is expected to attend the final, said the federation believes the team can complete its campaign with a historic victory.

“The NFF has confidence in the ability of the Flamingos to make Nigerians beam with smiles of joy on Saturday. If Brazil could not stop them, I don’t see Japan doing so. This is surely the year of the Flamingos, and the year Nigeria will again celebrate a global title,” he said.

A Federal Government delegation is also expected in Rabat, led by National Sports Commission Chairman Shehu Dikko. Other members include the Commission's Director-General, Bukola Olopade, and Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Adewale Adeniyi.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino and CAF President Patrice Motsepe are also expected to attend the final.

With the trophy within reach, the Flamingos now have the opportunity to turn their impressive campaign into a historic achievement for Nigeria and the African continent.

Japan head coach Sadayoshi Shirai says his side must produce a united performance to overcome Nigeria’s Flamingos and win the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.

Japan have reached the final unbeaten in Morocco, conceding only two goals during the tournament.

Their route to the showpiece has included difficult knockout-stage victories over Ghana and DPR Korea, but Shirai expects another demanding contest against a Nigeria team that has grown in confidence throughout the competition.

The Flamingos began their campaign with a 2-1 defeat by Poland, yet responded strongly to secure their place in the final. Nigeria have since won their last five matches and will provide a significant threat as both sides compete for the title.

Shirai said every member of his squad, including those who do not start, would have an important role to play in the final.

“Winning the World Cup has been our goal ever since this team came together,” Shirai told FIFA during the pre-match press conference.

He urged the players to approach the match as a collective effort rather than relying only on those selected in the starting line-up.

“I’ve told the team that we all need to pull together tomorrow, including those who won’t be in the starting line-up,” he said. “I want everyone to remember that we’re all fighting together as one.”

Japan have already faced three African teams during the tournament, giving Shirai’s players experience of the physical and attacking qualities they can expect from Nigeria.

“We’ve already faced three African sides that have all been very powerful and determined to score goals,” Shirai added.

The Japanese coach’s comments underline the challenge posed by the Flamingos, who have recovered from their opening defeat to put together a five-match winning run. Japan, meanwhile, remain unbeaten and have conceded just twice, setting up a final between two teams that have impressed for different reasons.

Nigeria’s progress has been built on their response after the loss to Poland, while Japan’s consistency has carried them through demanding matches against Ghana and DPR Korea.

With both teams now one victory away from the trophy, Shirai believes Japan will need contributions from the entire squad if they are to complete their unbeaten campaign by defeating the Flamingos in the final.

Nigeria U-23 Eagles ended their preparations for the 2027 U-23 AFCON second-round qualifying tie against Democratic Republic of Congo with a 3-1 victory over Ikenne-based third-division club Grassrunners on Friday.

The match was played at Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne and followed a goalless draw with Remo Stars in the team’s opening warm-up fixture.

Abdulmuiz Adeleke, Habila Simeon and Eventus Itowo scored for the U-23 Eagles as they secured a more positive result in their final practice game before beginning their competitive campaign.

Assistant coach Deniran Ortega led the side during the match, while head coach Eric Chelle watched from the stands.

The starting line-up was largely unchanged from the team that faced Remo Stars. Wonah Williams came into the side in place of Chimobi Igwilo, while Salihu Batunba replaced Eventus Itowo.

The U-23 Eagles will now turn their attention to the two-legged qualifier against DR Congo. The first leg is scheduled to take place in Lubumbashi next Friday, with the return match set for Tuesday, November 17, 2026, at the Remo Stars Sports Complex in Ikenne.

Nigeria did not qualify for the most recent U-23 AFCON tournament, which was held in Morocco. The host nation, the junior Atlas Lions, won the competition after beating Egypt 2-1 in the final to claim their first title.

Nigeria’s only U-23 AFCON triumph came under former Super Eagles striker Samson Siasia. The team defeated Algeria 2-1 in the final to win the tournament.

The stakes in the qualifying competition also include a place at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The two teams that reach the U-23 AFCON final will earn the continent’s two qualification places for the football event at the Games.

The last Olympic appearance by the U-23 Eagles came at Rio 2016, where Nigeria won the bronze medal.

Nigeria will be without Victor Osimhen and Samuel Chukwueze for their crucial AFCON 2027 qualifiers against Tanzania, while Frank Onyeka is a major doubt as head coach Eric Chelle prepares for a difficult international window.

Chukwueze has been ruled out after undergoing successful surgery on a ruptured tendon in the tensor fasciae latae muscle of his left hip. The AC Milan winger sustained the injury during his club’s 3-2 Serie A victory over Atalanta on October 18.

The operation was carried out in London by Professor Ernest Schilders, with AC Milan club doctor Stefano Mazzoni present. Chukwueze has since returned to Italy to begin his rehabilitation, although reports suggest he could remain unavailable into 2027.

The winger had provided two assists early in the season while adapting to a wing-back role under Ruben Amorim. His absence will deprive Nigeria of his pace, dribbling and ability to create space from wide areas in both matches against Tanzania.

Osimhen will also miss the two fixtures after suffering a left knee strain in Galatasaray’s 2-0 UEFA Champions League win over VfB Stuttgart. MRI scans found a loose body in the joint, with the Turkish champions scheduling arthroscopic surgery for Saturday, November 7, at Maslak Ac?badem Hospital.

The procedure will be performed under the supervision of Galatasaray club doctor Yener Ince. Osimhen is expected to need two to four weeks to recover, ruling him out of the current international window and marking the second consecutive window he has missed for the Super Eagles because of fitness problems.

Onyeka’s availability remains uncertain. The Coventry City midfielder is recovering from a groin injury that forced him to miss a recent Premier League match against Everton. His estimated return is around November 21, which could mean he uses the international break to continue his recovery rather than report for duty.

His energy and defensive work have made him an important part of Chelle’s midfield options. If he is unavailable, Nigeria’s midfield will lose further defensive strength alongside captain Wilfred Ndidi.

Nigeria host Tanzania at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday, November 13, before travelling to Dar es Salaam for the return match on Tuesday, November 17.

The Super Eagles are second in Group L with three points from two games, having beaten Madagascar 2-1 and lost 3-0 to Guinea-Bissau. Guinea-Bissau lead the group with six points.

Tanzania, who are already qualified as one of the 2027 co-hosts alongside Kenya and Uganda, have one point and cannot claim the group’s sole remaining qualification place. Nigeria therefore need to maximise their points from the two matches to remain in contention ahead of a March meeting with the leaders.

Chelle may turn to Akor Adams, Tolu Arokodare or Kelechi Iheanacho to cover for Osimhen. He is expected to finalise his squad after this weekend’s European club matches, with the Nigeria Football Federation likely to announce the list soon afterwards.

Players are due to start arriving in Uyo from Monday, November 9, although Europe-based members of the squad are expected to join later after completing their club commitments.

Nigeria’s Flamingos have become the first African team to reach the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup final after a remarkable run at the 2026 tournament in Morocco.

They will face Japan in Rabat on Saturday, 7 November 2026, with the chance to win the competition for the first time.

Nigeria’s campaign began with a 2-1 defeat by Poland in Group B, but they recovered with a 2-0 victory over Puerto Rico before producing one of the group stage’s biggest results.

The Flamingos defeated defending champions North Korea 3-1, with Oluwakemi Adegbuyi, Oluebube Umejiaku and Kanyinsola Yusuf scoring to end the Koreans’ unbeaten run and secure Nigeria’s place in the last 16.

Their form continued in the knockout stages. Mexico were beaten 2-1 before captain Azeezat Oduntan converted an 89th-minute penalty to earn a tense 1-0 quarter-final victory over Venezuela.

Nigeria then delivered their strongest performance of the tournament in the semi-finals, beating Brazil 3-1.

Queen Joseph opened the scoring in the 56th minute, while Awawu Bashiru added two further goals in the 71st and 80th minutes. The result secured Nigeria’s first appearance in a FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup final.

Five different Flamingos players have won Player of the Match awards during the team’s six-game run: Adegbuyi, Kanyinsola Yusuf, Umejiaku, Favour Nkwocha and Bashiru.

Bashiru’s two goals against Brazil came on her first start of the tournament and highlighted the strength available to coach Akeem Busari. Adegbuyi has provided early goals and leadership, Joseph has been clinical in front of goal, while Oduntan has impressed with her composure in pressured moments.

Busari said Nigeria must reproduce the character shown in their group-stage win over North Korea when they meet Japan.

“It’s just about showing the same character and playing the same way we played against North Korea, because they play with the same philosophy,” he said.

“They want to build the ball, they look at the high line of passes, they want their full-backs to support, so we really want to look at all that. We just really want to pick up the trophy.”

The coach added that although winning a medal would be significant, Nigeria’s main objective was the title.

“the trophy is the major thing our country wants. We want it as well. We just need to fight... put the icing on the cake and finish the job because the job is not yet done.”

President Bola Tinubu has congratulated the squad and encouraged them to make history.

Previous Flamingos teams reached the semi-finals and won bronze in 2022. This side has gone further, recording five successive victories after their opening defeat, including wins over the defending champions and Brazil.

Victory over Japan would complete a landmark campaign and deliver Nigeria their first FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup title.

Bayelsa United board member for Technical Affairs Godson Abaikade says the club’s revamped squad has the quality to secure an immediate return to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).

The club begins its Nigeria National League (NNL) campaign on Sunday, with promotion identified as its main objective after dropping out of the top flight. Abaikade believes the recruitment drive has given the team the strength required to achieve that target.

“We have prepared the players that will do that for us, and, by the grace of God, on Sunday, we will set the ball rolling, and Bayelsans will be very proud of this team,” he said.

Abaikade also highlighted the club’s arrangements for player welfare, saying Bayelsa United had maintained the financial and logistical standards it enjoyed during its time in the NPFL.

Despite now competing in the second tier, he said the squad had continued to benefit from the same level of support provided when the club was in the top flight.

“In the NNL, Bayelsa United is one of the teams with the best welfare packages,” Abaikade said. “We retained the same benchmark that the team was getting when they were in the NPFL.”

He attributed the arrangements to the backing of the Bayelsa State Government and said the administration had fulfilled its commitment to the club.

“In terms of welfare packages, I think we have done well. His Excellency gave us that mandate and backed it up with a wonderful welfare package for the team,” he added.

Irish-Nigerian striker Mipo Odubeko is the subject of transfer interest from French Ligue 1 club Le Havre, with his contract at Shelbourne due to expire on 30 November.

The 24-year-old centre-forward has made 16 appearances in the 2026 League of Ireland Premier Division, scoring four goals and providing two assists. He has also received two yellow cards during the campaign.

Odubeko joined Shelbourne from Fleetwood on a free transfer in January 2025 and has since become part of the Dublin club’s attacking options. His current market value is listed at €150,000.

The reported interest comes with Odubeko approaching the final weeks of his Shelbourne contract. There is no indication that a move to Le Havre has been agreed, and the rumour remains unconfirmed.

Born in Tallaght, Dublin, Odubeko has represented both Irish and Nigerian footballing backgrounds through his listed nationalities. Before moving to Shelbourne, he spent time with Fleetwood and Portuguese club Maritimo, having developed in the youth systems of West Ham United, Manchester United and Manchester City.

Odubeko’s current season record is four goals and two assists from 16 league appearances, with Shelbourne retaining him under contract until the end of November.

Nigeria can become the first African nation to win FIFA World Cups in both the men’s and women’s Under-17 categories if the Flamingos defeat Japan in Saturday’s 2026 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup final in Rabat.

The final will be played at Pitch 3 of the Complexe Mohammed VI, with Nigeria aiming to complete a remarkable recovery and claim the trophy for the first time. The players have also spoken of their desire to present the title to Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.

The Flamingos began the tournament with a 2-1 defeat by Poland and followed it with an unconvincing victory over Puerto Rico. They responded emphatically in their final group match, beating defending champions and two-time winners Korea DPR 3-1 to qualify as runners-up.

Nigeria then overcame Mexico 2-1 in the last 16 before defeating Venezuela, who had eliminated Germany, in the quarter-finals.

Their semi-final performance removed any remaining doubts about their credentials. Brazil were beaten 3-1 after Nigeria produced 30 attempts on goal and could have been six goals ahead before Brazil scored a consolation goal in the final minute of normal time.

The result also underlined Nigeria’s record in the competition. The Flamingos have scored 115 goals since appearing at the inaugural tournament in New Zealand 18 years ago. They have featured in every edition except the 2018 finals in Uruguay, which they missed after Cameroon eliminated them on the away-goal rule in the final round of African qualifying.

Japan’s place in the final was secured in dramatic circumstances. They were level at 1-1 with Korea Republic in the closing stages of their semi-final when Korean defender Won Sol-gyong scored an own goal. Japan then prevailed in the penalty shootout.

The Japanese side have scored 150 goals in the competition since 2008, the highest total by any team, and are the only nation apart from New Zealand to have appeared at every edition. This will be their fourth final. Japan won the 2014 tournament by beating Spain 2-0 in Costa Rica, but lost the finals in 2010 and 2016.

Nigeria have registered 113 attempts on goal at this tournament, while their 12 goals have been shared among eight players. Oluebube Umejiaku has scored three, Awawu Bashiru and Oluwakemi Adegbuyi have two each, and Kanyinsola Yusuf, Queen Joseph, Mary Dunstan, Precious Oscar and Azeezat Oduntan have one apiece.

Oduntan became captain after forward Harmony Chidi was benched and scored a late penalty in the quarter-final against Venezuela. Coach Hakeem Busari and his assistants have also been praised for changing their tactics and personnel effectively. Bashiru, who had played only 73 minutes as a substitute before the semi-final, was selected ahead of Tosin Rafiu and scored twice against Brazil.

NFF acting General Secretary Dr Emmanuel Ikpeme said: “The NFF has confidence in the ability of the Flamingos to make Nigerians beam with smiles of joy on Saturday. If Brazil could not stop them, I don’t see Japan doing so. This is surely the year of the Flamingos, and the year Nigeria will again celebrate a global title.”

A Federal Government delegation led by National Sports Commission chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko will attend, alongside NSC Director General Hon. Bukola Olopade and Nigeria Customs Service Comptroller-General CG Adewale Adeniyi. FIFA President Gianni Infantino and CAF President Patrice Motsepe are also expected.

Nigeria captain Harmony Chidi says the Flamingos are determined to defeat Japan and win the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Saturday’s final.

Akeem Busari’s team will contest the title decider at the Mohammed VI Football Complex, Pitch 3, in Rabat, with kick-off scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Nigerian time.

Victory would give Nigeria their first championship in the competition, while Japan are seeking to claim the title for a second time.

The final will also be the first meeting between Nigeria and Japan at FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup level.

Chidi said reaching the final had fulfilled a major ambition for the squad, but added that the players wanted to complete their campaign by returning to Nigeria with the trophy.

“I think it would be a great thing, a joy, and would never be forgotten in life,” Chidi told FIFA.

“Reaching the final is a very big thing, it’s a great thing and it’s something that we have dreamed of. [Winning] would be something myself, my country, my team-mates, our coaches, and everybody would be proud of.”

The Flamingos captain said lifting the trophy would represent a significant achievement for the players, their coaches and the country.

Nigeria will therefore be attempting to make history in Rabat by securing their maiden FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup title, while Japan will be aiming to add a second crown to their record in the tournament.