World Cup
Tinubu Hails Super Eagles After 4–1 Rout of Gabon, Says Nigeria’s World Cup Dream ‘Firmly on Course’
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has applauded the Super Eagles for their resounding 4–1 victory over Gabon in Thursday’s FIFA World Cup qualifying Africa Playoff clash, calling the performance a powerful demonstration of the “Nigerian spirit that rises, adapts, and prevails.”
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser, Bayo Onanuga, the President said the team displayed “courage, balance, and precision” in Rabat, adding that football remains one of the country’s strongest symbols of unity and collective pride.
Tinubu said the emphatic win has injected fresh momentum into the nation’s push for a World Cup ticket and reinforced the shared determination to return to football’s biggest stage.
Predator! Osimhen on the way to scoring his second and Nigeria’s fourth of the night.
He commended the players, coaching staff, and the entire technical and administrative crew for their unwavering commitment to the national cause, noting that their dedication and discipline were key to Thursday’s success.
According to the President, the result is also a reminder of the depth of talent Nigeria continues to produce, as well as the Super Eagles’ resolve to reclaim their standing among Africa’s most respected football teams.
Tinubu also praised millions of Nigerian fans worldwide for their consistent passion and loyalty, describing their support as a vital source of strength for the squad, especially during demanding international fixtures.
Looking ahead, the President urged the team to remain focused and disciplined as they continue their qualifying campaign.
“Every match presents an opportunity to show character and prove again that Nigeria’s ambition is within reach,” he said. “This is the true Nigerian spirit of resilience against all odds. Do not stop until you secure qualification. Super Eagles, keep soaring. The nation stands with you!”
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BY KUNLE SOLAJA, NEW YORK
Spain will attempt to strengthen their position in Group H when they face Saudi Arabia in a FIFA World Cup encounter that rekindles memories of their previous meeting two decades ago.
The two nations last met at the World Cup during the 2006 tournament in Germany, when a solitary goal from Juanito secured a 1-0 victory for Spain in Kaiserslautern.
La Roja enter the fixture determined to return to winning ways after being held to a surprise draw by tournament debutants Cabo Verde. The Spanish side will be keen to avoid another setback as the group stage enters a decisive phase.
Saudi Arabia, however, have ambitions of creating history. The Green Falcons are seeking their first World Cup victory against European opposition since their memorable 1-0 triumph over Belgium at the 1994 tournament in the United States.
A positive result would significantly boost Saudi Arabia’s hopes of progressing to the knockout stage while adding another notable chapter to their World Cup story.
With both teams aware of the importance of the fixture, Sunday’s encounter could prove pivotal in shaping the final Group H standings.
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BY KUNLE SOLAJA, NEW YORK
Belgium goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois stands on the brink of history as the Red Devils prepare to face Iran in a crucial Group G match at the FIFA World Cup.
The veteran shot-stopper could equal Belgium’s record of 17 World Cup appearances if selected, underlining his status as one of the country’s most enduring and influential players.
Belgium will be looking for a strong performance as they continue their quest for qualification from a competitive group, but they face an Iranian side buoyed by the form of defender-turned-goalscorer Ramin Rezaeian.
Rezaeian has emerged as one of Iran’s most surprising attacking weapons and is aiming to score in a fourth consecutive international match, a feat that would further enhance his growing reputation.
The clash pits Belgium’s experience and pedigree against Iran’s determination and resilience, with both teams fully aware that a positive result could prove decisive in the battle for a place in the knockout rounds.
As the stakes rise in Group G, individual milestones and team ambitions are set to collide in what promises to be an intriguing contest.
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BY KUNLE SOLAJA, NEW YORK
History will be on the line when New Zealand and Egypt meet in Group G as both nations seek their first victory at the FIFA World Cup.
Neither side has managed to record a win at the 2026 tournament so far, making the encounter a crucial opportunity to keep their hopes of advancing alive.
The match will also mark a landmark occasion for New Zealand, who will face African opposition at the World Cup for the first time in their history.
Egypt, one of Africa’s most experienced football nations, are equally desperate to secure three points after a difficult start to their campaign. The Pharaohs know that victory could breathe new life into their chances of reaching the knockout rounds.
For New Zealand, the game offers an opportunity to achieve a breakthrough result on football’s biggest stage and further establish themselves among the emerging nations at the tournament.
With both teams chasing a historic first World Cup triumph, the encounter is expected to be fiercely contested as they battle to keep their dreams alive.
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