OBITUARY
On the eve of Okwaraji’s death anniversary, Shooting Stars Assistant Coach Dies During Training in Ibadan
On the eve of the 36th anniversary of the tragic on-field death of Samuel Okwaraji, Nigerian football has been struck by another loss as Akin Olowokere, newly appointed assistant coach of Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) side Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC), collapsed and died during a training session on Monday morning in Ibadan.
Olowokere, who had only recently joined the club under newly appointed Technical Adviser Nurudeen Aweroro, reportedly collapsed mid-session. Efforts to revive him proved unsuccessful, and the club has not yet disclosed the cause of death.
In an official statement, 3SC paid glowing tribute to the late coach, describing him as more than just a tactician:
“Coach Olowokere was not only a dedicated and passionate football tactician, but also a mentor, friend, and father figure to the players and many others. He exhibited compassion during his short stint with the club and the wider football community. His commitment to the growth and success of our team was unwavering, as we hope his legacy continues to inspire generations to come.”
The club also expressed solidarity with his loved ones, saying:
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, colleagues, players, and the entire Nigerian football family during this difficult time. We stand with them in prayers and solidarity, and we pray for the strength to bear this painful loss. May his soul rest in perfect peace.”
Olowokere’s appointment was part of 3SC’s efforts to reinforce their coaching structure ahead of the new NPFL campaign. His sudden passing comes as the football community in Nigeria reflects on the 1989 loss of Super Eagles midfielder Samuel Okwaraji, who collapsed and died during a World Cup qualifier in Lagos.
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Japanese boxing is in mourning after two fighters died from brain injuries sustained in separate bouts on the same bill at Tokyo’s Korakuen Hall.
Shigetoshi Kotari, 28, collapsed shortly after a 12-round draw against OPBF junior lightweight champion Yamato Hata on August 2 and died on Friday following surgery for a subdural haematoma.
A day later, 28-year-old Hiromasa Urakawa died from the same injury after being knocked out by Yoji Saito. He had undergone a craniotomy in a bid to save his life.
The Japanese Boxing Commission has responded by reducing all OPBF title fights from 12 to 10 rounds.
The tragedies follow the death of Irish boxer John Cooney earlier this year from similar injuries sustained in the ring.
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Former West Germany striker and World Cup winner Frank Mill has died aged 67, the German FA (DFB) said on Tuesday.
The Borussia Dortmund and Borussia Moenchengladbach player was part of the West Germany squad at the 1990 World Cup in Italy, where they lifted the trophy after a 1-0 victory over defending champions Argentina in the final.
German media said Mill suffered a heart attack in May shortly after getting in a taxi in Milan. He was later flown back to Germany but never recovered.
Born in Essen, Mill earned 17 caps and was part of his country’s squad that claimed bronze at the 1988 Olympic Games.
“We mourn the loss of Frank Mill, our 1990 world champion,” the DFB said in a statement. “Rest in peace, Frank. Our thoughts are with his family and friends.”
Reuters
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OBITUARY
Football World Mourns Tragic Death of 10-Year-Old Nigerian-British Charlton Starlet, Ethan Ade-Oduwale
The global football community is in mourning following the devastating news of the sudden death of Charlton Athletic academy player Ethan Ade-Oduwale, a 10-year-old starlet of Nigerian parentage.
Charlton Athletic confirmed the heartbreaking development in an emotional statement on Tuesday, describing Ethan as a “cherished” and “shining example” within their Under-10s academy team.
“We are devastated to learn of the tragic passing of Ethan Ade-Oduwale, a cherished member of our academy’s U10s team. Rest in peace, Ethan,” the Championship club posted on its official X (formerly Twitter) handle.
Further tributes poured in from the club’s website, painting a moving portrait of a boy who embodied the spirit of the game with his joy, commitment, and team spirit.
“Ethan’s smile, energy and enthusiasm for football will always be remembered by his teammates and the staff within the academy. From the moment he stepped onto a football pitch at Sparrows Lane, his desire to succeed spread across every session… He will be sorely missed by all,” the club wrote.
Charlton’s Academy Manager, Tom Pell, expressed deep sorrow over the young talent’s passing, sending condolences to Ethan’s parents, Adeola and Esther, and the wider family.
“Everyone within Charlton Athletic’s academy is absolutely devastated. Ethan’s beaming smile will never be forgotten,” he said, adding that the academy would, in due course, announce further plans to honour his memory.
Charlton Chairman Gavin Carter also extended the club’s sympathies. “On behalf of everyone at Charlton Athletic, we are devastated by the heartbreaking news of Ethan’s passing. Our thoughts, heartfelt condolences, and full support are with Ethan’s parents and family,” he said.
A minute’s silence was scheduled to be observed before Charlton’s Boys’ Junior Section match against Co. Londonderry on Tuesday night as a mark of respect.
The sad news has sparked an outpouring of tributes from across English football. Former Premier League club Ipswich Town said, “The thoughts of everyone at Ipswich Town are with Ethan’s family and friends,” while League One sides Northampton Town and Port Vale also posted touching condolences.
As the football community comes to terms with the painful loss, the cause of Ethan’s death remains undisclosed.
Ethan Ade-Oduwale, remembered as a beacon of joy, passion, and promise, leaves behind an enduring legacy in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
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