MOLATsportgist

From U.S. Youth Camps to Eagles Radar: Timoni Gbalajobi Top Priority for Nigeria’s 2026 Diaspora Programme

The Philadelphia Union’s youth setup has long been recognized as one of North America’s premier talent factories, but few attackers in recent academy memory have asserted themselves as emphatically as 16-year-old center-forward Olatimoni “Timoni” Gbalajobi.

Gbalajobi has rapidly emerged as one of the most clinical attacking prospects in American youth soccer. At just 16 years old, the dynamic center-forward is already starring at the U-18 level for the Philadelphia Union, capping off a remarkable four-season rise through one of North America’s premier academy pipelines.

Combining impressive physical presence with razor-sharp penalty-box instincts, Gbalajobi served as the undisputed focal point of the Union’s attack last season, staggering defenders with 35 goals and 7 assists across 45 matches. His big-stage credentials were further validated in February 2026, when he claimed the U-16 Golden Boot at the prestigious Snow Bowl International Academy Tournament.

Born in the United States to Nigerian parents, Gbalajobi holds dual citizenship, making his long-term international allegiance an urgent priority for federation talent recruiters. While the United States holds an early edge through his domestic pathway and previous call-ups to U.S. U-15 Youth National Team camps, Nigeria is mounting a proactive push to secure his future.

Mindful of recent high-profile dual-nationals who chose other countries—such as Folarin Balogun (USA), Bukayo Saka, Eberechi Eze, and Noni Madueke (England), Michael Olise (France), Manuel Akanji (Switzerland ) and Karim Adeyemi (Germany)—the Nigerian Football Federation and National Sports Commission are paying close attention. Backed by the NSC’s newly launched 2026 Diaspora Programme, led by Mallam Shehu Dikko and Hon. Bukola Olopade, Nigerian recruiters are actively tracking overseas talent to prevent top prospects like Gbalajobi from slipping through their fingers.

As Gbalajobi continues his relentless output in Philadelphia, he remains one of the premier young prospects to watch in modern youth soccer.

As the young striker advances toward the professional ranks, both nations will be monitoring his every move before he is permanently cap-tied at the senior international level.

betPawa rewards Ghana Women’s FA Cup round-of-16 winners

In a historic moment for women’s football, the eight teams victorious in last weekend’s Women’s FA Cup Round of 16 have been awarded the Locker Room Bonus (LRB) by betPawa, marking the first implementation of this initiative in the tournament’s history.

Players confirming LRB transaction alert

Launched in 2022 in Ghana, this innovative programme has gained traction across sub-Saharan Africa, redefining sports sponsorship by putting athletes at the centre of reward systems.

The LRB has already boosted morale in competitions such as the Ghana Premier League and now the Women’s FA Cup.

Last November, betPawa announced its decision to extend its groundbreaking player appreciation program, the Locker Room Bonus, to encompass the Women’s FA Cup, continuing through to the final.

Players who make the matchday squad list receive their winning bonus directly to their mobile money wallets immediately after a match win.

Each player and three technical staff from the winning teams get GH¢400 for every match they win from the round of 16 through to the final.

“It’s amazing to see our efforts rewarded. The Locker Room Bonus is more than just money; it’s recognition of our hard work and commitment,” shared N- Yanyimaya Gnabekan of Ampem Darkoa Ladies.

Ampem Darkoa coach.

The triumphant teams, whose players and three technical staff members each received GH¢400 as part of the Locker Room Bonus, include: Hasaacas Ladies, Rootz Sistaz FC, Faith Ladies, Northern Ladies, Sung Shining Ladies, Ampem Darkoa Ladies, Jonina FC, and Fosu Royals.

Echoing Yanyimaya Gnabekan’s sentiment, Ampem Darkoa Ladies’ Coach Stephen Sarkodie added that LRB is more than just money for players and officials.

“It’s amazing to see our efforts rewarded. The Locker Room Bonus is more than just money; it’s recognition of our hard work and commitment,” echoed Stephen Sarkodie, Coach of Ampem Darkoa Ladies.

Since its inception, the LRB has grown rapidly. From one competition in 2022, it expanded to six in 2023, and by 2024/2025, it is expected to cover over 16 competitions across football and basketball in countries such as Uganda and Rwanda.

betPawa is a mobile sports gaming brand owned by Kigali-based Mchezo Limited. It operates in 11 markets in the continent. Through innovative partnerships, betPawa aims to elevate sports standards and contribute to the growth of local communities.

AFCON 2023: Ivory Coast vs Nigeria preview as the Eagles search for first victory

In a highly anticipated game, the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) is set for what is looking like the first unmissable match as Nigeria takes on the hosts, Cote d’Ivoire in their second group match on Thursday.

The two powerhouses will face off at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium in Abidjan, Ivory Coast.

Riding on a winning start the hosts sit comfortably atop Group A with three points while the Super Eagles are third with one point earned from their 1-1 draw against Equatorial Guinea.

The Elephants are unbeaten in their last six matches dating back to October 2023 while their West African opponent registered one win in that period with six matches played also.

Backed by a passionate home crowd, Jean-Louis Gasset’s side are a force to be reckoned with and have now scored 19 goals in their last five games, having hit the Seychelles for nine in a World Cup qualifier in November and also put five past Sierra Leone in their first warm-up friendly for AFCON.

Although both sides are no strangers to each other as they have met on several occasions since 1967, the rivalry has been one to keep an eye on over the last 20 years, especially in an AFCON tournament.

These two sides haven’t met for nine years, but it’s Nigeria who will have the fonder memories of their last AFCON encounter in 2013 — the Super Eagles were on the winning end of a close 2-1 in the quarter-finals, on their way to lifting the trophy.

In six AFCON encounters with Cote d’Ivoire, the Super Eagles have prevailed four times, two of which have been by penalties, and the other two have gone to the home team, with both sides scoring five goals apiece.

At the 2006 edition, Didier Drogba’s 47th-minute goals sent the Eagles to a third-place finish. Then in 2013, Sunday Mba scored the winner to make it 2-1 in the 78th minute helping Nigeria advance to a semifinal and become the eventual winner, which was the last time they won it.

However, the last time they both met was in 2015 in an international friendly in Abu Dhabi where Salomon Kalou’s 84th-minute strike made the difference.

Both sides have injury worries heading for their next meeting, as Ivory Coast were without Sebastien Haller against Guinea-Bissau, with the Borussia Dortmund striker still struggling with an ankle injury.

As for Nigeria, midfielder Alhassan Yusuf was stretchered off against Equatorial Guinea and has been ruled out for this match as a result. The Royal Antwerp midfielder who was handed a late call-up as Ndidi’s replacement enjoyed a strong debut that ended prematurely by injury.

Although, Nigeria still boasts a very strong squad despite seeing another continental campaign impacted heavily from the outset by injuries, they very much flattered to deceive against Equatorial Guinea.

The Jose Peseiro-led team will once again turn to Victor Osimhen for inspiration, with the Napoli striker equalizing to earn his side an opening draw.

The three-time champions face the crucial task of securing all three points to prevent their first group-stage exit since the 1982 edition of the AFCON.

Nigeria, however, can take confidence in the fact that they have advanced to the finals on four occasions out of the six editions where they have faced off against the hosts.

A victory for the Elephants against Super Eagles would qualify them for the tournament’s second round.

In contrast, the Super Eagles must avoid a loss in this encounter as it could jeopardize their AFCON journey, pushing them perilously close to elimination.

AFCON 2023: Afrobeat star Odumodu Blvck picks potential Super Eagles lineup

Nigerian singer, Tochukwu Gbubemi Ojogwu has shared his potential Super Eagles starting lineup for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The “Odumodu Blvck” as the Afrobeats star is fondly called, has been known to be a big football fan, often bringing his liking for the game into his music as evident in his smash hit, ‘Declan Rice’, named after the English midfielder

Jose Peseiro has released his final 25-man list and the team will depart for a one-week training camp in Abu Dhabi before proceeding to Abidjan.

However, the ‘Declan Rice’ crooner has suggested a starting lineup ahead of their opening match against Equatorial Guinea on January 14, 2023, as Nigeria will be looking to scoop their fourth African crown in the Ivory Coast.

In his selection, there is no goalkeeper. However, he fixed Ola Aina, Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi, and Zaidu Sanusi, in the defensive sector.

In midfield, the artist has Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka, and Ademola Lookman. Then, he chooses Victor Osimhen and Victor Boniface to lead the attack.

Nigeria are in the same group as the host nation, Ivory Coast, Equatorial Guinea who they will play first, and Guinea-Bissau.

Super Falcons star Echegini set to join Juventus

Nigeria international, Jennifer Echegini is set to join Italian giants Juventus following a successful college campaign.

The 22-year-old has had an excellent time at Florida State soccer side Seminoles, where she has been for two seasons.

Her stellar 2023 campaign was highlighted by her recognition as the Honda Sport Award winner for women’s soccer, an accolade she received in December.

She played a pivotal role in the Seminoles’ triumphant journey to becoming the 2023 National Champions, contributing with a remarkable career-high and ACC-leading 16 goals.

The Nigerian international earned the title of ACC Offensive Player of the Year and was crowned ACC Tournament MVP, underscoring her impact on the pitch.

Following Echegini’s excellent campaign, she is a nominee for the prestigious MAC Hermann trophy, the winner of which will be announced on January 5.

Born and raised in London, England, Echegini’s early years in youth football were with Arsenal and she was a key member of the Super Falcons squad during the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.

The Super Falcons star is now seen as the perfect player to strengthen Juventus as coach Montemurro looks to strengthen his team ahead of a busy schedule.

According to Tuttomercatoweb, the Super Falcon has said her goodbyes to Seminoles ahead of the expected switch to Italy.

“Juventus Women’s first coup in this January transfer window will be Nigerian Jennifer Onyi Echegini, who has just returned from a couple of excellent seasons with the Florida State Seminoles in the United States,” the report stated.

“The footballer born in 2001 has in fact said goodbye to the university club and will soon be announced by the Bianconeri with whom she has already found an agreement,” it added.

Coach Madugu explains Ashleigh Plumptre’s absence from Falcons’ invite

The interim manager of the senior women’s national team, Justin Madugu has provided an update on the absence of star defender Ashleigh Plumptre from the team.

The English-born has not featured for the Super Falcons since the World Cup in Australia and New Zealand where she played a pivotal role as Nigeria finished the group unbeaten for the first time in history.

The Nigerian defender is however having a fine start to life at Al Ittihad where she has won the Player of the Month and Best Goal of the Month after scoring a hat trick on her debut.

The 25-year-old was a notable omission when the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) released the list of 23 players for the decisive WAFCON qualifier against Cape Verde in Abuja.

However, Madugu has cleared the air concerning the absence of the player who recently moved from the English Women’s Super League (WSL) to the Saudi Women’s Premier League on the completion of her contract with Leicester City

“Ashleigh has been having a lot of injuries,” the coach said in a video posted on Instagram.

“She has been picking some knocks and has not fully recovered – that is the truth about it.

“She needed some rest and a break from the national team engagement so that she can recover fully.

“But she is still part of the team. When she is fully recovered, certainly we know what Ashleigh can bring – she will be part of the team going forward.”

Ashleigh Plumtre explains Super Falcons’ break for Al Ittihad

Super Falcons defender, Ashleigh Plumpre has explained taking a break from the national team for two international windows.

The 25-year-old has not featured for the Super Falcons in the two legged 2024 Olympic qualification against Ethiopia last month, and was also not part of the team for the double header WAFCON qualifiers against Cape Verde.

Plumptre, who recently joined Saudi club Al-Ittihad on a free transfer, having parted ways with Leicester City, opened up on her absence from the national team.

“I guess it has been a break,” she told NigeriaFootball.

“I haven’t been able to go to the upcoming, camp, like I said, it’s more of a personal decision while I take care of my body.

“But ultimately, I want to be fun with the team. It’s a privilege. And I want to be in the best physical condition to be able to go and compete in important games.

“And I feel like right now, I have complete trust and faith in the team.

“I’ll be watching the game while I’m here, but, I want to get to a point where I can compete maximally and provide as much as I can to the team in the best condition.

“So, yeah, I expect to be, I don’t know when. Hopefully as soon as possible.

“I’ve had to make the decision for the benefit of myself, but also the team as well.

“And I’m looking forward to some of the girls that have been called, and especially the younger girls that have been called in.

“It’s like the first or second time or they haven’t had much experience with the senior team.

“Hopefully give them a chance as well. And to be seen, at the top level, I think that’s really important. So, yeah, I’ll be supporting the girls from afar.

Paris 2024: Super Falcons in all-or-nothing situation

By: Oluwaseun Michael (Yotomimedia)

Nigeria’s Super Falcons battled to a 1-1 draw with Ethiopia’s Lucy in the first leg of their Paris 2024 Olympic Games qualifier

After their heroics at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, the Nigerians have shifted their energy to qualifying for the Olympics.

Official coach Randy Waldrum missed the game due to personal commitments in the United States as home-based coach, Justin Madugu led the charge.

However, Waldrum is expected to rejoin the team ahead of the second-leg encounter stated for Tuesday, Octor 31, 2023.

Nigeria have scored only four goals in their last five matches now, with three of them coming in a single game against Australia at the World Cup.

Birkie Amare gave the hosts the lead in the sixth minute after she capitalized on a goalmouth scramble before Rasheedat Ajibade equalized shortly after the halftime break with an excellent volley.

The nine-time African champions had another goal ruled out for offside as they settled for a share of the spoils with a team ranked 124th in the world.

The winner on aggregate will play the winner of the Cameroon/Uganda match for a spot in the qualification series’ final round.

With two slots available for CAF representatives, it is only a wise expectation that the most successful African team win their quest to compete for the first time at the Olympic Games since Beijing 2008 in China.

Nigeria must avoid defeat or a draw higher than 1-1 as CAF still uses the away goal rule that eliminated Nigeria in previous qualifiers.

Paris 2024: Four Super Falcons star players to miss qualifiers

The quartet of Gift Monday, Halimatu Ayinde, Christy Uchiebe and Regina Otu are doubtful for the second round Paris 2024 Olympic Games qualifiers between Nigeria’s Super Falcons and Ethiopia.

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has however named a replacement for Ayinde as youngster midfielder Esther Onyenezide will take her place in the team.

Meanwhile, the last time the Falcons featured at the Olympic Games was at Beijing 2008 in China.

Ethiopia will host the first leg at the Abebe Bekila Stadium, Addis Ababa on Wednesday while the return leg will be played at the MKO Abiola Stadium, Abuja on Tuesday, October 31.

The winner on aggregate will confront the winner of the fixture between Cameroon and Uganda.

However, Ayinde who was pivotal at the 2023 FIFA women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, as Falcons reached the round of 16 before losing on penalty shootout to England announced her absence on X account.

“🚨 Update: I won’t be joining the Nigeria women’s national team for our upcoming match against Ethiopia due to circumstances beyond my control. Wishing my Super Falcons teammates all the strength and success on the pitch in Addis Ababa! 🇳🇬⚽ #SuperFalcons #Paris2024 #Olympics”

Also informing her fans about her absence was Christy Ucheibe who controlled the midfield at the last World Cup.

“I am honoured as always to be called up to represent the Super Falcons of Nigeria but I unfortunately will not be able to take part in the games against Ethiopia due to circumstances beyond my control. See you all the next camp 🙏”

Onome Ebi fulfills long-life dreams with NWFL return

Newly unveiled Naija Ratels FC player, now captain, Onome Ebi, has continued to express her joy in returning home to retire in the Nigeria Women’s Football League (NWFL).

The record-breaking skipper who has participated in six FIFA Women’s World Cups was unveiled at a colourful ceremony on Saturday in Abuja by the management of Naija Ratels.

Having not played any club matches since 2022 and with five international appearances with Randy Waldrum’s Super Falcons, Ebi has decided to give back to the girl-child from her wealth of experiences.

Ebi’s football career has seen her demonstrate her prowess on the field while representing clubs in various countries, including Sweden, Turkey, Belarus, China, and Spain.

The 40-year-old defender who captained the Super Falcons at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand said she is fulfilled to return to the home league, after more than a decade abroad.

“After almost 13 years of playing football outside the shores of Nigeria, I have come to realize that one of the best decisions I’ve ever made is coming back to play in the Nigerian Women’s Football League. I’m feeling extremely happy,” she wrote on her Facebook page.

“The slogan of my new team is ‘One Day At A Time’. Here I am, fulfilling my lifelong dream of coming back to play in the Nigerian League one day at a time, and it is all adding up gradually.

“My desire to beam the light on young girls is being fulfilled effortlessly. For the first time in my life, I feel fulfilled that I’m bringing all that I’ve ever achieved as a footballer back to where it all started, back to the Nigerian league.

“I’m fulfilling my lifelong dream of being a part of another young girl’s life, an opportunity I never had with my football idols like Florence Omagbemi and many others whom I would have loved to train with, take pictures with, and play in the same league with them.

“The calls and messages have confirmed that my decision was received with open arms across the globe.

“My lifelong dream of giving back to our own league where I played for 10 good years before travelling is finally being achieved.

“Seeing the joy on the faces of these young ladies who want to be like me is very reassuring.

“Certainly, this is just the starting point for me and the beginning of greater things in my quest to change the narrative in the women’s league in Nigeria.

“In addition to the value my presence is adding to Naija Ratels players, my ultimate goal is to make my presence felt by players in other teams🤗. The joy in my heart is priceless ♥️😊”