25 March 2025
11:54

TOSCAD NEWS NIGERIA

News as it breaks

Category: Sports

FeaturedSports

Osimhen Brace Seals Nigeria’s First Qualifiers Win, Super Eagles Climb to Fourth

Wendy R.

A first-half brace from Victor Osimhen secured the win, marking Nigeria’s first triumph in the qualifiers. The Galatasaray forward opened the scoring in the 11th minute, skillfully finishing off an in-swinging free kick from African Footballer of the Year, Ademola Lookman. His second goal came in added time of the first half after a brilliant solo run from midfield, capped off with a deft chip over the Rwandan goalkeeper. The victory propelled Nigeria from fifth to fourth place in Group C with six points, trailing leaders South Africa (10 points), second-placed Benin Republic (8 points), and Rwanda (7 points). New…

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FeaturedSports

Super Eagles Face Rwanda in Must-Win World Cup Qualifier

Wendy R.

The Super Eagles of Nigeria are set for a decisive encounter against Rwanda in their quest for a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The qualification match, scheduled for later today in Kigali, presents an opportunity for Nigeria to revive their campaign after a slow start. With just three points from four matches, Nigeria sits fifth in their group and must turn their fortunes around to stay in contention. Only the top team will secure automatic qualification, while the best four second-placed teams across the continent will advance to a playoff. The match marks the debut of Eric Chelle…

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FeaturedSports

After a Decade Behind Bars, Nnamdi Kanu Seeks Reconciliation in Court

Wendy R.

The detained leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, appeared before the Federal High Court in Abuja for the latest hearing in his ongoing treason trial. The case is now being presided over by a new judge, Justice James Omotosho. In another significant development, Kanu’s defence team has undergone a leadership change, with senior advocate Kanu Agabi (SAN) now heading the legal representation, while the prosecution remains under Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN). Shortly after the court session commenced, Agabi addressed the court with an unexpected gesture—an apology on behalf of his client. He extended an olive branch…

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FeaturedSports

Mbappe Returns to France Squad, Ready to Shine Against Croatia

Wendy R.

France captain Kylian Mbappe has expressed his joy at rejoining the national squad ahead of their UEFA Nations League quarter-final first leg against Croatia on Thursday. “I feel good, I feel happy to be playing football, I feel happy to be here,” Mbappe said in a press conference in Split, marking his return to international duty after a six-month absence. The 26-year-old forward missed France’s October fixtures due to injury and was rested by coach Didier Deschamps in November as he navigated a challenging start at Real Madrid following his highly anticipated summer transfer. Now back in the fold, Mbappe…

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FeaturedSports

FIFA, NFF Launch Groundbreaking Project to Elevate Nigerian Football

Wendy R.

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and FIFA have launched a landmark project set to transform Nigerian football, both on and off the pitch. The groundbreaking ceremony for the FIFA-funded players’ hostel and new training pitches took place on Tuesday at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, with top government officials and football stakeholders in attendance. NFF President Ibrahim Gusau described the project as a turning point for Nigerian football. Once completed, the facilities will provide world-class accommodation for national teams during international duties, while the new grass and artificial pitches will serve as a talent development hub. The initiative aims…

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FeaturedSports

No Messi, No Neymar: South American Giants Face Key Matches Without Stars

Wendy R.

Argentina captain Lionel Messi will sit out the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Uruguay and Brazil after being left out of the national squad due to a reported injury sustained in club action. The 37-year-old forward, who plays for Inter Miami, had recently returned from a muscle injury and scored twice in consecutive matches, including a full 90-minute performance in Major League Soccer (MLS) against Atlanta United on Sunday. However, Argentine media reported that Messi experienced muscle discomfort following that game, prompting his omission from the squad. His absence comes at a critical time as Argentina, the reigning World Cup…

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FeaturedSports

Chelsea Condemn ‘Abhorrent’ Racial Abuse of Wesley Fofana After Arsenal Defeat

Wendy R.

Chelsea Football Club has issued a strong condemnation of the online racial abuse directed at defender Wesley Fofana following their recent match.   On Monday, Fofana shared screenshots of the hateful messages he received after the game, highlighting the persistent issue of racism in football.   “2025, and yet stupidity and cruelty no longer hide… It’s not just football, it’s not just a ‘game’ when some believe their skin color makes them superior to others,” Fofana wrote on his Instagram story. “It’s time for change, for platforms to take action, and for everyone to take responsibility.”   In response, Chelsea…

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FeaturedSports

Flamingos Defeat South Africa, Advance to Final Round of U-17 Women’s World Cup Qualifiers

Toscad News

Nigeria’s U-17 women’s team, the Flamingos, secured a place in the final round of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup qualifiers after defeating South Africa’s Bantwana 2-0 on Saturday. The victory sealed a dominant 5-1 aggregate win for Nigeria in the penultimate round of the qualifying series. Harmony Chidi, who scored twice in the first leg, added to her tally in the 37th minute with a well-placed header that put the visitors under pressure, having already lost the first leg 1-3 at home. Shakirat Moshood, another key performer from the first leg, delivered a precise free-kick that set up Aishat…

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FeaturedSports

Kwara United Triumphs Over Kano Pillars as Governor AbdulRazaq Applauds Team’s Effort

Wendy R.

Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has commended Kwara United for their outstanding performance following a 2-0 victory over Kano Pillars at the George Innih Stadium, Ilorin. Speaking after the match, Governor AbdulRazaq highlighted the significance of sports and praised the team’s determination, especially as they played while fasting during Ramadan. He urged the players to maintain their momentum and push for continental qualification. With the victory, Kwara United now sits 11th on the NPFL table with 39 points and is set to face Rangers in Enugu next weekend. Despite the loss, Kano Pillars’ winger and Super Eagles captain, Ahmed Musa,…

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FeaturedSports

Manchester City Survives Early Shock to Defeat Plymouth in FA Cup Fifth Round

Wendy R.

Manchester City avoided a major FA Cup upset on Saturday, overcoming Championship side Plymouth 3-1 in the fifth round at the Etihad Stadium. Plymouth, who had stunned Premier League leaders Liverpool in the fourth round after knocking out Brentford, threatened another shock when Maksym Talovierov put the visitors ahead in the first half. However, Manchester-born youngster O’Reilly, making just his sixth start for City, turned the game around with a brace, ensuring Pep Guardiola’s side steered clear of another embarrassing exit in what has been a turbulent season. Kevin De Bruyne sealed the win with a late goal. English FA…

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