Nigerian Football
RIVERS UNITED SET TO FURTHER DISUNITE AKWA UNITED
BY SAMMY WEJINYA
Rivers United travel to Uyo to be the first team to face Akwa United after the exit of their erstwhile coach, John Obuh.
Games between Akwa United and Rivers United are never straightforward affairs and the latest installment which comes up on Wednesday could prove to be the most exciting yet in recent years.
The last time the two sides met, at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu on June 15, 2019, Akwa were the bookies favourites to run away with the win.
The ‘Pride of Rivers’ however had other ideas and totally outclassed the ‘Promise Keepers’ 3-0 with Kehinde Adedipe, Bright Onyedikachi and Ossy Martins netting in the 2019 round of 32 AITEO Cup contest.
This Wednesday, the stakes are almost as high (if not higher) with both sides aiming to amass maximum points for varying reasons.
The news dropped like a bombshell on Monday morning – the Akwa United head coach, Sam John Obuh had resigned.
And this was happening less than 48 hours to their biggest game of the season against their fearsome and in-form next door neigbours, Rivers United!
This was certainly unusual stuff and more than a few eyebrows were understandably raised.
Club secretary, Omon Bassey promptly reacted to Obuh’s shock resignation on behalf of the Akwa United management.
“Yes, coaches take responsibility when things go awry, yet we can testify to the professionalism and discipline you brought to bear in the running of the club.
“This includes your untiring belief in the God factor in the life of this great organisation. We will miss you.
“Akwa United wish you well in your future endeavours, even as we daily strive to restore the confidence of our numerous fans worldwide,” Omon posited.
A new Man in the saddle – the Boboye factor
The Uyo club acted swiftly in the aftermath of Obuh’s decision to throw in the towel.
Popular ‘Port Harcourt boy’ Kennedy Boboye was appointed to take the reins just hours later.
Boboye knows Rivers United well but in his stint at his last two clubs, Plateau United and Remo Stars, he failed to mastermind a victory over the Port Harcourt club (two draws with Plateau United and two defeats with Remo Stars).
He also takes over an ailing club that have won just once in eight league matches this term.
Seeming mutiny within the ranks of the Uyo club forced the hand of the management to announce via its official media channels on Monday that “in a move to restore sanity, the club management has suspended one player indefinitely, while two are undergoing disciplinary related investigation.”
One of the players believed to be caught in the middle of the storm, top scorer, Ndifreke Effiong was forced to offer a public apology to the Akwa United family for his part in the less than savoury incidents of the last few days.
Blue tide rising
In stark contrast, things couldn’t have been more settled at Rivers United.
The Port Harcourt landlords easily dismantled Katsina United 2-0 on Sunday without breaking sweat, barely stepping off first gear and with plenty still left in the tank thanks to goals from Stephen Gopey and Ishaq Rafiu.
Rivers United have lost just twice (each by 1-0 margins) in eight league games this season and know that a win on Wednesday could see them move up to second place on the standings.
Akwa United, comprehensively outclassed 0-3 by MFM FC in their last game, sit just two points above the relegation zone and look extremely low on confidence, a striking contrast to their opponents on Wednesday.
Rivers United’s technical manager, Stanley Eguma is training his sights on masterminding a positive display and result on Wednesday.
“It’s a big game, a local derby and they will be expecting us to come (to Uyo) with fireworks and we are going there to get the three points,” Eguma said to the club’s official website, www.riversunitedfc.com.ng.
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.
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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.
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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.
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