Nigerian Football
CLASSY RIVERS UNITED TAME ADAMAWA UNITED
BY SAMMY WEJINYA.
Rivers United produced their most dominant league performance in over four seasons on Sunday in a one-sided 2-0 victory over Adamawa United in Gombe.
Junior Osaghae and Malachi Ohawume were the goalscoring contributors for the Port Harcourt club, either side of half time.
The big news before kickoff was that former Super Eagles centre half, Azubuike Egwuekwe would be making his first start of the season while mainstays, Kunle Odunlami and captain, Festus Austine would miss out on the game.
The absence of the two regulars, Austine and Oduami did not weaken the side and if anything, galvanized the troops into producing the most dominant league performance ever witnessed in recent memory.
United could have racked up double figures in the contest and it would not have flattered them – such was the level of dominance displayed by the ‘Pride of Rivers’ at the Pantami Stadium.
United started in brisk fashion with Ishaq Rafiu leaving his marker for dead in the second minute before seeing his goal-bound shot blocked.
A minute later, Rivers United came close again with visionary midfielder, Esor Nelson just failing to reach the lively Ishaq’s teasing cross.
The ‘Pride of Rivers’ continued to play on the front foot and almost took the lead in the fifth minute when a devastating counter attack that involved three players, goalkeeper, Darlington Ovunda, midfielder, Bakary Bamba and forward, Stephen Gopey culminated in the attacker firing agonisingly wide from close range.
The pattern of missing a plethora of chances continued in the seventh minute when Amos James produced a stunning goal line clearance to deny Gopey whose exquisitely-taken half volley seemed destined for the bottom corner.
Three minutes later, Ishaq almost scored an extraordinary goal, straight from a corner but the shell-shocked Bulus Pwadadi in the Adamawa United goal scrambled to make an important stop, pushing the ball away for a corner.
In the 13th minute, Bakary Bamba should have opened the scoring for the visitors had he kept his effort low when he carved out space on the near side and after driving forward with menace.
The hosts were struggling to put passes together and barely stepped out of their half as they concentrated instead on stopping wave after wave of Rivers United attacks.
In the 21st minute, Adamawa United finally created their first goal scoring opportunity in the shape of Idris Abubakar’s tame effort from the edge of the box which Ovunda stooped with minimal fuss.
Almost immediately, the regular pattern of the game resumed with Rivers United creating dangerous moments, almost at will.
Junior Osaghae missed two excellent opportunities in the 23rd and 24th minutes respectively but he wasnt to be denied for much longer.
In the 25th minute, the midfielder displayed great movement off the ball to meet Gopey’s inch perfect delivery with a stunning header which hit the back of the net before Pwadadi could move a muscle.
The goal was the least their dominance deserved but to their credit, Rivers United did not rest on their laurels and nearly got a second goal two minutes later as Gopey saw a fierce effort spectacularly kept out by the overworked Bulus.
Poor decision making by Esor Nelson denied Gopey a chance to double Rivers United’s advantage on the half hour as Esor choose to shoot from an impossible angle rather than square to the unmarked attacker.
The dominance of the visitors was near total with Osaghae managing to miss two more gilt-edged opportunities before the half was over.
One of the chances was a header from three yards with a gaping goal at his mercy after Bulus had already been displaced following Ishaq’s expertly taken corner.
Football is replete with stories ‘games of two halves’ and if the home faithful expected the hosts to turn the tide in the second half, they were to be badly disappointed.
Rivers United continued from where they stopped after the interval, coming close to adding to the score on three occasions before the game had reached the 50-minute mark.
Odaghae headed Bakary Bamba’s cross wide on 47 minutes before remarkably placing a free header wide from point blank range, this time off an Ishaq cross.
Defensive midfielder, Victor Chidume drove forward in the 49th minute before delivering a stunning no look pass to Esor who fired wide from close range.
It was a remarkable passage of events as the home fans watched, stunned, while the visitors continued to dominate in resounding fashion.
On 54 minutes, the hosts had a rare attacking moment of promise but the impressive Egwuekwe reacted well to prevent Idris Abubakar from plundering what would have represented a barely-deserved equalizer.
Just before the hour, the marauding visitors came extremely close to doubling their money again but Esor, who was fed in exhilarating fashion by Osaghae, saw a brilliant goal-bound effort deflected for a corner.
From the ensuing corner, Esor almost scored but a last ditch bit of heroic defending saw the hosts clear for another corner.
Adamawa United were reeling but Rivers United would not take their foot off the gas.
Peter Ubakanma, who was having a barnstorming evening at right back, overlapped impressively to meet a Cletus Emotan cross which was disappointly headed straight at Bulus from six yards in the 66th minute.
Two minutes earlier, Rivers United had missed their best chance of the half when Gopey arrived in the six yard box with Bulus displaced.
He pulled the trigger firmly enough and the away bench had erupted in what turned out to be premature celebrations as Lukman Surajo arrived from nowhere to make a goal saving clearance.
It was a remarkable incident in the game and Surajo understandably celebrated like he’d netted the winner.
‘The Pride Of Rivers’ however refused to despair, their belief hinged on the knowledge that they were the vastly superior side and that their overall quality would carry them safely over the line.
Ubakanma raced forward again in the 72nd minute, taking matters into his own hands with a fizzing effort which flew inches wide of Bulus’ right hand post from 25 yards out.
Rivers United were however almost punished in the 77th minute as Bobby Abel struck with poise and precision from 12 yards only to see his drive deflected for a corner by Bamba who just about arrived the scene at the opportune moment.
The hosts seemed to have stirred from hibernation following that incident and should have levelled matters in the 79th minute.
Idris Abubakar outsmarted the visitors’ rear guard, came face to face with Ovunda but somehow placed his effort over.
Two minutes later, the ball was on the other end of the pitch as Ubakanma saw his freekick just about fly over.
Gopey shot into the side netting in the 83rd minute after turning a defender inside out before substitute, Malachi Ohawume got denied by the offside flag.
Ohawume was to have his moment of joy, three minutes from time as he stabbed into an unguarded net from close range after seeing an initial effort come off the post.
“The players put up a good effort and we want to amass points that will take us to the top of the table,” technical manager of Rivers United, Stanley Eguma told the club’s official website, www.riversunitedfc.com after the game.
United will next face MFM FC in Port Harcourt on January 5 in their first game of 2020.
The Port Harcourt club have now moved into the continental places as they are now level on points with second-placed Lobi Stars on the log having amassed 18 points from 11 matches.
Nigerian Football
Beats, Banter and Blessings: Troost-Ekong Lifts the Lid on Super Eagles’ Dressing Room
There are happenings in the Super Eagles’ locker rooms that fans may not have been aware of. Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has lifted the lid on life inside Nigeria’s dressing room — and it sounds like a lively place to be.
In a light-hearted chat with CAFOnline.com, the Al-Kholood defender revealed that Samuel Chukwueze is the squad’s resident DJ, bringing not just music but good vibes wherever the team gathers.
“DJ is usually Samuel Chukwueze — he brings the speaker and great energy,” Troost-Ekong said with a grin.
Faith, too, plays a big role in the team’s bond. According to the captain, both Muslim and Christian prayers take place before matches, with players taking turns to lead.
“We have both Muslim and Christian prayers; different players lead at different times and there’s harmony,” he added.
But when it comes to laughter, a few names stand out. Victor Boniface tops the comedy charts, with goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali not far behind.
“Victor Boniface makes everyone laugh. Stanley Nwabali can be hilarious too — sometimes you’re not sure if you’re laughing with him or at him,” Troost-Ekong joked.
He also mentioned Raphael Onyedika as another quiet fun-maker in the group, rounding off a mix that keeps the atmosphere light and united.
“We’ve got a real family feeling, and people see that from the outside,” the skipper said.
With music from Chukwueze, jokes from Boniface, and prayers from every corner, it’s no wonder the Super Eagles look so connected — even before they step onto the pitch.
Join the Sports Village Square channel on WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vaz7mEIGk1FxU8YIXb0H
Nigerian Football
Football, Music, and Street Vibes Light Up Awka at Tiger Street Football Grand Finale
Awka came alive on Saturday night as the first-ever Tiger Street Football Tournament climaxed in a spectacular blend of football, music, and street culture, leaving fans captivated from start to finish.
At the end of a pulsating evening at Newberries Lounge, Peace Warriors emerged as the maiden champions, defeating Peace Ambassadors 3–1 on penalties after a tense goalless draw in regulation time. The Warriors held their composure in the shootout to claim the ₦5 million grand prize, gold medals, and the honour of becoming the inaugural champions of the Tiger Street Football Tournament.
The runners-up, Peace Ambassadors, who matched their opponents stride for stride, received ₦3 million and silver medals, while the losing semi-finalists — Sunday Sparks and Peace Dominion — each went home with ₦1 million and bronze medals for their spirited efforts.
Onyebuchi Patrick of Peace Warriors was named Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the tournament after scoring three goals and leading his team with flair and determination. His electric performances throughout the competition drew loud cheers from the crowd and earned him special recognition from the organisers.
The semi-final matches earlier in the day provided plenty of drama. Peace Warriors drew 1–1 with Sunday Sparks before edging them 4–3 on penalties, while Peace Ambassadors cruised past Peace Dominion 4–1 to book their place in the final.
Beyond the football, the grand finale turned into a vibrant street festival. Top DJs SkyBlisz, Snow, and Kay.Y kept the crowd moving, while Jerio and dynamic duo Wanni & Handi lit up the stage with energetic live performances. Hype men Twix da Jims and Slymshady added to the excitement, transforming the arena into a night-long celebration of rhythm, courage, and community spirit.
Fans were also treated to local delicacies, chilled Tiger Beer, and raffle draws that saw lucky attendees go home with exciting prizes, adding to the festive atmosphere that engulfed the Awka nightlife.
Speaking after the final whistle, Sarah Agah, Marketing Director of Nigerian Breweries Plc, described the tournament as a celebration of Nigerian youth, creativity, and courage.
“What we’ve seen here in Awka goes beyond football — it’s the heartbeat of Nigerian youth,” Agah said. “Tiger Street Football is about recognising the fearless energy that drives our people — their talent, their determination, and their passion. We’re proud to give them a platform to shine. This is just the beginning.”
Spectators were equally impressed. Chinedu Eze, one of the excited fans, said the night was unforgettable.
“It wasn’t just about football — it was about fun, connection, and celebrating our youth,” he said. “Tiger Beer really brought something special to Awka.”
For the champions, the night was a dream come true.
“We all started from the streets where football is played for fun,” said MVP Onyebuchi Patrick. “Kudos to Tiger Beer for creating this opportunity. Winning this in front of our people is something we’ll never forget.”
As fireworks illuminated the Awka sky and Jerio closed the show with a high-energy performance, fans danced, sang, and toasted to what many described as a new dawn for grassroots football in Nigeria.
Organised by Tiger Beer, the Tiger Street Football Tournament proved to be more than a sporting contest — it was a powerful celebration of courage, culture, and community.
Join the Sports Village Square channel on WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vaz7mEIGk1FxU8YIXb0H
Nigerian Football
Tiger Street Football Tournament Heads for Grand Finale in Awka After Electrifying Weekend
The maiden Nigerian edition of the Tiger Street Football Tournament is nearing its climax in Awka, following an action-packed weekend that blended grassroots football with music, street culture, and celebration.
The atmosphere around the venue was electric as DJs and hype men kept the energy high between matches, while food vendors, entertainers, and Tiger Beer enthusiasts turned the event into a full-blown street festival — a vibrant showcase of football, rhythm, and camaraderie.
From 16 teams that began the competition, only four now remain in contention for the ₦5 million grand prize, after thrilling quarterfinal fixtures held on Sunday, October 19.
In a day filled with goals and grit, Sunday Sparks, Peace Warriors, Peace Dominion, and Peace Ambassadors booked their places in the semi-finals.
- Sunday Sparks continued their dominant run with a 3–0 victory over Young Stars. Peace Warriors edged Star Boys 2–1 in a tense contest.
- Peace Dominion narrowly defeated Super Strikers 1–0, while Peace Ambassadors overcame Mgbakwu Pillars 2–1 to complete the semi-final lineup.
The semi-finals are scheduled for Saturday, October 25, where Sunday Sparks will face Peace Warriors, and Peace Dominion will take on Peace Ambassadors. The winners will advance to the grand finale later that same day at the highly anticipated “Tiger Uncaged” celebration.
Football fans in Awka have hailed the tournament as a breath of fresh air for local talent.
“The energy here is unbelievable. It feels like the real spirit of Nigerian football — no big names, just passion,” said Ifeanyi Okeke, a student of Nnamdi Azikiwe University.
“Kudos to Tiger Beer for bringing something this exciting to Awka. It’s giving young players real hope.”
Another fan, Chisom Udeh, described the event as “a refreshing celebration of local talent.” She added: “You can see the joy on the players’ faces — this is football in its purest form. Tiger Beer really deserves credit for supporting the streets and turning it into something this big.”
The grand finale will take place at Newberries Lounge, Awka, featuring a lively mix of football, music, and street culture. The event will be hosted by Uzor and headlined by Jeriq, with DJ sets from DJ SkyBlisz, DJ Snow, and DJ Kay-Y, alongside performances from Wanni & Handi. Hype men Twix da Jims and Slymshady will keep the crowd charged throughout the evening.
Fans will also have the chance to win exciting prizes in raffle draws during the finale. Organisers have reminded attendees that the event is strictly for persons aged 18 and above and encouraged everyone to enjoy responsibly.
Join the Sports Village Square channel on WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vaz7mEIGk1FxU8YIXb0H
- Athletics6 days ago
Nigeria to Host First-Ever Africa Running Conference in Lagos
- Nigerian Football1 week ago
Jay-Jay Okocha Call Turns NPFL Boss to Instant Celebrity in Madrid
- CAF Champions League1 week ago
Remo Stars Host Mamelodi Sundowns in Crucial CAF Champions League Showdown
- Nigerian Football6 days ago
Tiger Street Football Tournament Heads for Grand Finale in Awka After Electrifying Weekend
- CAF Champions League2 days ago
Rivers Flow into CAF Champions’ League Group Stage as First Nigerian Team in Nine Years
- CAF Champions League1 week ago
Black Bulls Edge Rivers United 1–0 in CAF Champions League Clash
- CAF Champions League1 week ago
Two Decades After Their Defeat, Mamelodi Sundowns Return to Abeokuta
- Boxing6 days ago
Nigerian-Born Irish Boxer Daniel Fakoyede Targets Heavyweight Glory