KEANE GOES IN ON FERGIE AGAIN!

Former Manchester United captain Roy Keane has lashed out again at retired Old Trafford manager Alex Ferguson in a ITV4 documentary set to be aired on Tuesday.

The fiery Irishman claims the Scottish coach is trying to exert "control and power" at the struggling defending champions and has a "massive ego".

Keane, who was the midfield driving force in a glorious spell for the club between 1993 and 2005, but who has fallen out with Ferguson since then, said his former boss at Nottingham Forest, Brian Clough, was the best manager he worked under.

United have endured a difficult start to life under Ferguson's successor David Moyes, having already lost three league games at Old Trafford, leaving them in ninth spot and 13 points behind front-runners Arsenal.

Keane said of Ferguson, now a director at United: "Everything is about control and power. He's still striving for it now even though he's not manager. There's massive ego involved in that."

Keane, who left United in 2005 after a disagreement with Ferguson, was speaking in an ITV4 documentary called 'Keane and Vieira: The Best of Enemies' concerning his rivalry with former Arsenal captain Patrick Vieira.

He said that his relationship with the former United boss is now "non existent".

The Irishman even took issue with Ferguson praising him in his recently released autobiography for "covering every blade of grass" in the 1999 Champions League semi-final second leg against Juventus.

Keane added: "Stuff like that almost insults me. I get offended when people give quotes like that about me. It's like praising the postman for delivering letters."

Keane admitted he had cried in his car when his United career came to an abrupt end over a candid interview he gave to the club's in-house television station criticising his team-mates.

He said: "Of course I was upset: I did shed a few tears in my car for about two minutes.

"But I also told myself I had to get on with my life.

"I walked out with nothing, I had no club lined up and I was injured.

"I told David Gill I had been injured playing for Man United.

"I could have played for Manchester United easily for another couple of years."

Keane said Ferguson's strongest trait was his "ruthlessness", while labelling "loyalty" his biggest weakness.

Ferguson said in his autobiography that his authority at Old Trafford would have been undermined had he not forced Keane out in 2005.

The Scot said Keane had "slaughtered" several of his team-mates in the MUTV interview. Ferguson said Keane invited the United players to watch the interview, but that the decision backfired when several senior players, including Dutch duo Edwin van der Sar and Ruud van Nistelrooy, rounded on the captain.

Ferguson said at a press conference promoting the release of his book in October: "'We had to react to the situation so quickly because his actions were so quick. For one reason or another he decides to go and criticise his team-mates.

"We decided we had to do something. The meeting in the room was horrendous. I just couldn't lose my control in this situation.

"Throughout my career I have been strong enough to deal with important issues like that. Roy overstepped his mark. There was no other thing we could do."

Keane told ITV in October: "I do remember having conversations with the manager when I was at the club about loyalty and, in my opinion, I don't think he knows the meaning of the word."

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BRAZIL STADIUM VIOLENCE: 3 FANS STILL IN HOSPITAL!

Three fans remained hospitalised on Monday a day after violent clashes erupted during a football league match in southern Brazil, hospital officials said.

On Sunday, fans of Atletico Paranaense and Vasco da Gama fought running battles in the stands at the stadium in the city of Joinville from as early as the 17th minute when Atletico took a 1-0 lead.

A police helicopter was forced to land on the pitch to bring the violence, which lasted more than one hour, to an end and allow medical help to the injured.

Four spectators were rushed to San Jose hospital in Joinville, in the southern state of Santa Catarina, but one was released shortly afterwards.

Two more were still under observation and expected to leave the hospital Monday, while the other, who is in more serious condition, was to be moved to a private clinic, the hospital said.

"He is in a more serious condition, with head trauma," a hospital spokesman said.

The match was held up for an hour before being restarted. Atletico won the game 5-1.

Military police did not respond quickly because security was handled by a private security firm, a spokesman said.

The violence erupted six months before the kickoff of the World Cup as the country races against time to complete the 12 host arenas for the high-profile event,

Several stadiums, including Sao Paulo's Arena Corinthians which was hit by a fatal crane accident, will be delivered behind the initial December 31 deadline set by football's world governing body FIFA.

Joinville stadium is not hosting a match in the World Cup which starts on June 12.

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TURKISH MINISTER UPSET WITH T-SHIRT ACTION

Turkey's sports minister lashed out on Monday at moves by the football authorities to punish two top Ivorian club players for paying homage to Nelson Mandela.

Didier Drogba and Emmanuel Eboue have been threatened with disciplinary action by the Turkish Football Federation for violating a ban on wearing political slogans on T-shirts -- triggering outrage on Twitter.

Turkish Sports Minister Suat Kilic called on the federation to review its decision against the two star players with Istanbul giant Galatasaray.

"I don't find it a healthy choice in terms of Turkey's image abroad and the two footballers' (freedom of) expression," he said.

Drogba removed his club shirt after a match Friday against SB Elazigspor to reveal a T-shirt that read "Thank You Madiba", using Mandela's clan name.

Teammate Eboue also honoured the South African anti-apartheid hero who died on Thursday with a T-shirt that said "Rest in Peace Nelson Mandela".

The federation defended its decision to summon the two players, saying they had not sought permission for their action.

But the move caused fury among scores of Twitter users, with some accusing the body of "fascism".

"There's a minute of silence for Mandela before a match in Britain but in Turkey, there are fines," said one tweet signed by Erce Sahin.

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ALAMPASU SET TO MOVE TO BELGIUM!

The Best goalkeeper at the 2013 FIFA U17 World Cup Dele Alampasu is set to complete a move to Belgian side Genk.

Alampasu, who was instrumental to the Golden Eaglets victory at the tournament, has been invited to the home-based Eagles preparing for the Africa Nations Championship (CHAN) billed for next month in South Africa.

The agent who brokered the deal for Alampasu, Goke Oshotoba, revealed,"Everything has been concluded with the club but the player won't join the team until after CHAN.

"The good thing about this deal is that Genk came after the player on their own after watching him at the U17 World Cup. So, they have agreed to have him go get more experience at CHAN if he eventually makes the final squad to the Championship."

However, Oshotoba will not divulge the financial details of Alampasu’s contract. 

“It would not be right to give you details of the contract. When the time is right we will let all that out but now all I can confirm to you is that Dele Alampasu has agreed to join the Belgian side Genk."

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BALLON D'OR FINALISTS REVEALED!

Cristiano Ronaldo, Franck Ribery and Lionel Messi are on the three-man shortlist for the 2013 Ballon d'Or.

The trio were chosen from the 23-man list, which included Gareth Bale, and the world player of the year will be revealed on 13 January.

Barcelona's Messi has won four years in a row but Real Madrid forward Ronaldo is the favourite to win this year.

The women's final trio are Nadine Angerer (Germany), Marta (Brazil) and Abby Wambach (USA).

Fifa has also confirmed the final three for coach of the year - with former Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson vying with ex-Bayern Munich coach Jupp Heynckes and Borussia Dortmund's Jurgen Klopp for the award.

The winners, to be announced at a ceremony in Zurich, will be decided by a vote among the captains and head coaches of all Fifa-affiliated men's national teams, as well as by international media representatives selected by France Football magazine.

FIFA has also confirmed the final nominees for the FIFPro World XI 2013, a team of the year.

The British candidates are England defenders Leighton Baines and Ashley Cole, midfielder Steven Gerrard, striker Wayne Rooney and Wales forward Bale.

The other Premier League nominees are: Chelsea's Petr Cech, Branislav Ivanovic and David Luiz, Manchester City's Vicent Kompany, Pablo Zabaleta, Toure and Sergio Aguero, Manchester United's Nemanja Vidic and Van Persie, Arsenal's Ozil and Liverpool's Suarez.

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SODJE ARRESTED FOR MATCH FIXING!

Former Super Eagles defender Sam Sodje and his brother Stephen were arrested on Sunday after being secretly filmed by an undercover reporter claiming he could arrange for players to pick up yellow cards in exchange for cash. Sodje demanded £30,000 for a booking and £50,000 for a player to get a red card during a match. He even claimed he punched a player in the groin during a match to be deliberately sent off - and pick up a £70,000 bribe. The former Reading and Brentford defender also boasted that he could rig Premier League and World Cup games.

He said some African players could be easily tempted because they do not get paid much to represent their national teams. The brothers were arrested by detectives from the National Crime Agency at their homes in Abbeywood, south London. Cops were seen carrying away evidence, including a desktop computer, from Stephen’s £120,000 home.

Another of Sodje’s brothers, Akpo, 33, who plays for Tranmere Rovers, was also captured discussing spot-fixing. A third man was arrested in connection with the case today but police refused to reveal if it was Akpo.

Sodje told an undercover investigator that he had “sorted” one former Premier League player to deliberately pick up a booking.

He said the star, who cannot be named, received £30,000 in exchange for the yellow card during a Championship match.

“This guy came to meet me at my house and it was sorted,” boasted the former Nigeria international.

“That’s how easy it is - it’s nothing. The booking one is easy. You just push someone, swear at the referee, kick the ball away.

“A yellow card is a standard thing. No one would even be suspicious.”

Sodje allegedly demanded a Rolex watch and a Range Rover for acting as “fixer” for the dodgy deal.

He said he picked up £70,000 after deliberately getting sent off while playing for Portsmouth earlier this year.

The player received a red card after punching Oldham’s Jose Baxter twice in the crotch. Sodje also claimed he could rig Premier League games and had discussed match-fixing with several top names.

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HUGE SUCCESS AT OLUMIDE OYEDEJI'S LONDON EVENT!

Former Nba star and current Nigerian basketball national team captain Olumide Oyedeji hosted a charity basketball clinic at the  Damilola Taylor centre in the heart of Peckham London. The Nigerian sports icon's foundation ( Olumide Oyedeji youth foundation ) themed the 3 day event '' pick a book not a knife, shoot a ball not a gun'' and Olumide describes this as '' the use of sports to engage the young kids from inner city areas, discouraging them from joining gangs whilst encouraging them to stay in school''.

He continues to say '' the alarming number of kids of African decent getting involved in knife and gun crime in London and my British roots helped make the decision to put this event together''.

After successfully running his foundation for over 13 years by himself and hosting clinics all over the world including yearly events in his home country Nigeria, the basketball star said London was just another place where a role model like him could make a positive impact in the kids lives and the benefits of such events will be felt by the community as a whole.

The event itself turned out to be a huge success with parents and children coming out in mass to the basketball clinic and celebrities like tv host's Adora Oleh, Mimi Fawaz and Adesope Olajide and other popular personalities like Dj Abass, chart topping producer Bayoz Muzik and his protege Moelogo and many more came to support the star as well.

See more pictures of the 3 day basketball clinic including Olumide Oyedeji's stop at the  Deptford Green College where he gave an inspirational talk to the students as well as taking charge of their basketball class for the morning.

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FOUR NIGERIANS IN FINAL SHORTLIST FOR GLO CAF AWARDS!

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) on Thursday unveiled the top ten nominees for the 2013 Glo-CAF Awards African Footballer of the Year.

The list of top ten nominees include four Nigerians: Mikel Obi of Chelsea, Emmanuel Emenike of Fernabache, Vincent Enyeama of Lille and Ahmed Musa of CSKA, Moscow.  Others include reigning African Footballer of the Year, Yaya Toure of Cote d’Ivoire and Manchester City, Didier Drogba also of Cote d’Ivoire and Galatasaray, Asamoah Gyan of Al-Ain (UAE) and Ghana, Jonathan Pitroipa of Stade Rennes and Burkina Faso, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang of Borussia Dortmund and Gabon and  Mohamed Aboutreika of Al Ahly ,Egypt.

CAF also released the names of top five finalists for the Africa-based “Player of the year” Award.  They are Sunday Mba of  Warri Wolves and Nigeria, Mohamed Aboutreika of Al Ahly, Egypt, his colleague, Ahmed Fathy, also of Al Ahly  and Egypt, Rainford Kabala of  TP Mazembe and Zambia and Tresor MputuMabi  also of TP Mazembe, from DR Congo.

Nominees in the other categories released by CAF include Nigeria, Ethiopia and Burkina Faso for the National Team of the Year Award and Al Ahly of Egypt, C.S Sfaxien of Tunisia and Orlando Pirates of South Africa for the Club of the Year Award.

Stephen Keshi of Nigeria, Paul Put of Burkina Faso and Manu Garba of Nigeria) are the Top 3 nominees for Coach of the Year Award while the Top 4 nominees for the Most Promising Talent Award are Ebenezer Assifuah of FC Sion and Ghana, Saleh Gomaa of ENPPI and Egypt, Kelechi Iheanacho of Taye Academy and Nigeria; and Alexis Yougouda of Cotton Sports Garoua and Cameroon.

The nominees for the Referee of the Year Award are: Alioum Neant of  Cameroon, Haimoudi Djamel of Algeria and Papa Bakary Gassama of Gambia.

The Nigeria Football Supporters Club were listed for CAF Fair Play Award while ex-coach of Senegal, late Bruno Metsu and Morocoan International, Mehdi Faria were shortlisted for the Legend Award. The Nigerian U-17 team, Golden Eaglets was shortlisted for the “Youth National Team of the Year.”

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The list is prepared through a vigorous selection process by the Technical, Football and Media Committees of CAF, taking into account the performance of the players for their national teams and clubs from January to November each year.

The Gala Night of the Glo-CAF Awards comes up at the Convention Centre, Eko Hotel and Suites, Lagos on 9^thJanuary, 2014.

Globacom has been the title sponsor of the Awards since 2005.

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NIGERIA GET ARGENTINA......AGAIN!

The Super Eagles of Nigeria have been drawn against Argentina for the fourth time in their FIFA World Cup history. The Eagles will also face debutantes Bosnia Herzegovina and Asian powerhouses Iran in Group F in next year's FIFA World Cup to be hosted by Brazil.

Other Groups are as follows:

GROUP A: Brazil, Croatia, Ghana, Mexico

GROUP B: Spain, Netherlands, Chile Australia

GROUP C: Colombia, Greece, Cote d'Ivoire, Japan

GROUP D: Uruguay, Costa Rica, England, Italy

GROUP E: Switzerland, Ecuador, France, Honduras

GROUP G: Germany, Portugal, Ghana, USA

GROUP H: Belgium, Algeria, Russia, South Korea

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"IHEANACHO ISN'T READY FOR WORLD CUP" - Keshi

Stephen Keshi, has declared that the chance of under-17 star, Kelechi Iheanacho making the 2014 Fifa World Cup squad to Brazil looks remote at the moment.

Keshi explained that winning the Fifa Under-17 World Cup and being named most valuable player of same tournament is not enough to win the Taye Academy attacking midfielder a place to the World Cup next year.

The Super Eagles manager added that "it should be recognised that the Under-17 tournament is a developmental phase for Kelechi and other players in that team."

Keshi also made it clear that the 17-year-old needs to play top flight football regularly to further hone his skills and prepare him for the rigours of international football at senior level. "He is a fantastic player and he has very good qualities to become one of the best footballers in the world from his performance at the Under-17 World Cup. But we need to ask if he is ready to play at the very highest level of football right now considering the weight of expectation that might follow such. It should be recognised that the Under-17 tournament is a developmental phase for. Kelechi and other players in that team.

"What he needs now is to start playing regularly for a team so that he remains in top shape as a footballer and continue to develop into top class footballer. As for considering him for the World Cup camp, that doesn't look real right now," Keshi said.

Recent reports credited to James Iheanacho, Kelechi's father revealed that Iheanacho senior feels that his son should be called up to the Super Eagles for the World Cup.

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SALISU DON HAMMER!

Former Enyimba coach Salisu Yusuf has reportedly agreed a sign-on fee of 13 million Naira and a monthly salary of a million Naira with El Kanemi Warriors.

These personal terms will rank him as one of the best paid coaches in Nigeria.

Yusuf, who once played for the Maiduguri club, has gone for the cash after he guided Enyimba to win this year’s Federation Cup and finish runners-up in the Premier League.

Reports reveal that Yusuf will soon be presented to the press by the ambitious El Kanemi, who finished fourth on the table last season on their return to the top flight after a long absence.

The former Super Eagles assistant coach has been one of the most sought after coaches in the country.

His financial demands scuttled a return to FC Taraba, who have won promotion to the top division for the first time in their history.

Yusuf asked for a salary of 1.2 million Naira a month, return flight tickets for all the team’s away matches as well as a sign-on fee of 15 million Naira to return to the Jalingo club.

In his first spell at the club then in the second division, he pocketed a sign-on fee of eight million Naira and was paid a monthly salary of 500,000 Naira.

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MANNERLESS CHILDREN!

Juventus have been hit with a €5,000 fine after schoolchildren attending the 1-0 victory over Udinese insulted goalkeeper Zeljko Brkic.

Juventus made the decision to allow approximately 12,000 children to occupy seats at either end of their stadium, after the club's ultras had been banned for the fixture.
The match would have been played behind closed doors following discriminatory chants towards Napoli supporters during a 3-0 victory on November 10, but Juventus' initiative prevented that scenario.

However, the move backfired with Brkic targeted, and Juve have subsequently been punished by the Italian Football Federation (FIGC).

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"MOURINHO IS A FUNNY GUY!" - Omeruo

When Kenneth Omeruo returned to Chelsea training after Nigeria qualified for the World Cup on November 16, David Luiz walked over to the youngster, shook his hand and said: “Well done, welcome to Brazil.’’ This week’s group-stage draw will further focus the minds of those heading to the 2014 FIFA World Cup.

Luiz’s compatriots, Oscar, Ramires and Willian, also congratulated the 20-year-old centre-half. So did the other players. Omeruo has yet to make his debut for Chelsea but is popular amongst the players and is highly regarded enough by Jose Mourinho to have a shirt, No 59, and a place in training.

Omeruo is being talked of as one of the potential young stars of the tournament. He has had a remarkable year, winning his first cap in January against Cape Verde, winning the Africa Cup of Nations, playing in the Confederations Cup in Brazil and guaranteeing a return with that qualifying success in a rainy Calabar and his 15th cap.

"I’ve been dreaming of playing in the World Cup," said Omeruo. "Playing in the Confederations Cup gave us the desire that we had to be in the World Cup. I’m really looking forward to the draw. If we get England, we will have to prepare our minds right.

"At Chelsea, we are really focused on the club but sometimes Jose makes fun. In a training session last week, I made a wrong pass. ‘If you do that in the World Cup, Nigeria is out!’ Jose said. We were laughing."

He hasn't yet broken into the Chelsea first-team, but the former Standard Liege stand-out has revealed that Chelsea coach Jose Mourinho rates him highly. "The way he talks about me and says 'Kenneth, my friend,' gave me the impression that he actually likes me," Omeruo said. 
"After the Nations Cup when he came in, Mikel told me that Jose asked after me. So I was happy that he recognises me.
"In Nigeria everyone says 'he is the Special One! The Special One' coming close you would know why he's special.
"The players respect him. He knows how to handle players, how he talks to us. The training is the best. It was difficult before, but I'm used to it now"

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"I DON'T WANT 'EXTRA TYRES' IN MY TEAM!" - Keshi

Super Eagles coach Stephen Keshi has said his side will call up players who can not add value to his team ahead of the FIFA World Cup next year.

Lately the names of captain, Joseph Yobo, Ikechukwu Uche, Taiye Taiwo, Osaze Odemwingie, among several others have been mentioned as possible comeback to the Super Eagles.

Keshi said it amounts to wishful thinking for anybody to believe he will bring back a player that is not better than the ones in his fold at the moment.
"It will be senseless to invite any new player who has nothing new or value higher to add to what I've at present in camp.

"Of course, I won't indulge in such fruitless exercise no matter the trappings.
"I've indicated that new players will be brought in to strengthen the side but it will be players who are far better than the ones that toiled for the ticket.
"The World Cup is not a platform to try players but a showpiece for tested and experienced players.
"We'll accommodate the best that will deliver the goods at the World Cup," said the former national team captain.

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FIFA RELEASES WORLD CUP SEEDING

Fifa on Tuesday announced the following pots to be used for Friday's draw for next year's World Cup finals when the 32 teams will be placed into eight first-round groups of four.

Pot 1 consists of the eight top seeds, one of each to be drawn in Groups A-H. The remaining pots are based on geographical criteria.
Hosts Brazil will be allocated position A1 in the draw and will play the opening match in Sao Paulo on June 12.
 
Pot 1 (top eight seeds): Brazil, Spain, Argentina, Belgium, Colombia, Germany, Switzerland, Uruguay
 
Pot 2: Ivory Coast, Ghana, Algeria, Nigeria, Cameroon, Chile, Ecuador
 
Pot 3: Japan, Iran, South Korea, Australia, United States, Mexico, Costa Rica, Honduras
 
Pot 4: Bosnia, Croatia, England, Greece, Italy, Netherlands, Portugal, Russia, France

Note: A pre-draw will be held to move one of the nine European teams into Pot 2. That European team will then be drawn against one of the four seeded South American teams to preserve the geographical balance of the draw.

The four South American seeds: Brazil, Uruguay, Colombia, Argentina will form a temporary Pot X. The three teams not drawn against the European team in Pot 2 will return to the main draw.

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"WE WANT WATER BREAKS!" - Prandelli

The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) is to lobby Fifa to implement time-outs during World Cup matches in Brazil next year, Italy coach Cesare Prandelli said on Tuesday. FIGC is to make the proposal on Thursday in Costa do Sauipe ahead of Friday's World Cup draw in the same Brazilian town.

"I want to ask them to make two time-outs during the matches so the players can rehydrate," said Prandelli at a press conference in Rome.
"The are two big problems in Brazil, the same ones we encountered during the Confederations Cup in June: the heat and the humidity which, in certain towns, are worrying.
"If you want to offer a show to the world then you have to allow the players to be in a condition to offer up such a spectacle."

Prandelli wants an official two-minute time-out to be called at the mid-point of each half to give players the chance to take fluids on board, otherwise he says they will be taking every opportunity at throw-ins and corners to rehydrate, which would upset the flow of games.

Prandelli believes the proposition will find favour with "all those (teams) who were at the Confederations Cup" and who have already experienced the potentially difficult conditions in the country.

The former Roma and Fiorentina coach said that during that competition "eight out of 11" players asked him to come off.
"That's a lot," added Prandelli.

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EAGLES GET CODE OF CONDUCT

Nigeria football officials are set to implement a code of conduct which they hope will prevent future rows with the national team over bonus payments.The move is designed to ensure there is no repeat of the dispute that almost caused the country to miss out on this year's Fifa Confederations Cup.

Players threatened to strike over a 50% cut in their bonus for June's 2014 World Cup qualifiers in Kenya and Namibia. Sports minister Bolaji Abdullahi has forwarded a code of conduct, drafted by a committee at his ministry, for immediate implementation by the country's football federation.
"That's the right step to take [approach the football body] so that the Nigeria Football Federation can ratify and implement this before the World Cup," Julius Ogunro, special assistant to the sports minister, told BBC Sport.

"It [the code of conduct] was kept away to allow the team focus solely on securing a World Cup ticket.

"Now is the right time to get it done and the NFF as a parastatal of the sports ministry are well aware of its importance.
"We need to prevent a bonus row like the one which fuelled anger and almost embarrassed the country before the last Confederations Cup in Brazil."

Back in June, Nigeria's players had initially refused to to go to the Confederations Cup following their 1-1 draw in Namibia in a World Cup qualifier as they were unhappy with the bonus payments offered by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).
The sports ministry intervened and made extra money available, eventually allowing the squad to travel to Brazil - two days late and only about 36 hours before Nigeria's opening game against Tahiti.
The five-part document spells out the obligations of the NFF, coaches and players called up to the national team. Non-compliance could lead to fines, suspensions or even expulsions.

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BEHOLD! THE YOUNGEST PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALLER EVER!

A 20-month-old toddler has become the youngest professional footballer in the world after being signed up by FC Racing Boxberg.

The Belgian club announced they had agreed a deal for Genk-born Bryce Brites this week, in what is a historic signing.

The child can’t even utter the word ‘football’ or ‘goal’ yet, but he has been awarded a place in Boxberg’s under-5s squad after penning a long-term contract. The club’s coach commented on the bizarre deal after it was completed, saying it was the obvious choice due to Bryce’s talent.
‘The way Bryce kicks the ball: you do not see that very often,’ he explained. ‘His ball control is incredible for somebody of his age.’

Belgium has become a hotbed of talent in recent years, with stars such as Vincent Kompany, Eden Hazard, Christian Benteke, Romelu Lukaku and Thomas Vermaelen all emerging in recent years.

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GHANA THROUGH TO BRAZIL!

Ghana sealed a third straight World Cup finals slot despite losing 2-1 to Egypt on Tuesday night in the return leg of the 2014 playoff played at the Air Defense Stadium in Cairo. 

The Black Stars advanced 7-3 on aggregate to become the fourth African country to qualify for next year's finals in Brazil. 

Egypt went ahead on 25 minutes through Amir Zaki after Black Stars goalkeeper Fatau Dauda made a hash of an Aboutreika freekick. Six minutes away from time, substitute Gedo was put through by danger man Ahmed Salah and he blasted past Dauda. 

But against the run of play, Asamoah Gyan slid a ball through for Kevin-Prince Boateng, who replaced Abdul Majeed Waris to finish off a consolation in the 89th minute. 

Egypt's Shikabala had a glorious chance to make it 3-1 but the substitute amazingly shot wide. 

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EAGLET DIES

Nigeria Football Federation has been thrown into mourning on Tuesday after news of the death of Golden Eaglets defender Friday Njengo filtered out.

Njengo, a regular in Coach Manu Garba's team through out the qualifiers for the 2013 African Youth Championship had been in intensive care at the National Hospital, Abuja, for more than nine months after sustaining injuries in a car crash.

"This is very sad news. We had looked forward to the boy eventually recovering to be part of the team again as the squad progresses to the next level. It is a thing of sorrow to lose such a huge talent this way," NFF general secretary Musa Amadu said on Tuesday.

While Njengo sustained a head injury in the accident, goalkeeper Abubakar was luckier and was discharged after a few days.

At the National Hospital, an operation was performed on the player and he was thought to be recovering, though still suffering from memory lapses, until his death on Sunday night.

The Nigeria Football Federation stated on Tuesday that burial arrangements would be announced after consultations with the family.

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KAYODE HITS HAT TRICK!

Former Flying Eagles star Olanrewaju Kayode scored Maccabi Netanya’s opener in a 2-0 win over  Maccabi Umm al-Fahm on Friday.   
Maccabi Netanya remain top of the league table with 23 points from 10 games. 
  
Kayode scored the opener for Maccabi Netanya in the 82nd minute to send the home fans into wild jubilation and the Nigerian said he is delighted with his goal. 
  
"I just want to thank God for making me score in our game today (Friday). Indeed He is a good God," Kayode said. 
  
Kayode was recently freed by FIFA after a long-drawn transfer logjam that involved top Ivorian club Asec and a former Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) top shot Taiwo Ogunjobi.

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"WE SHOWED TOO MUCH RESPECT!" - Keshi

Nigeria would have beaten four-time world champions Italy on Monday but showed them too much respect, according to coach Stephen Keshi.

Monday night’s friendly at Craven Cottage ended in a thrilling 2-2 draw.

“Maybe, we had too much of respect for them, but am sure if by chance we meet at the World Cup, we will put up a better performance,” Keshi looking back at the game.

He therefore demanded more work and focus from his players in the lead-up to next year’s World Cup in Brazil.

“It’s time to go back and work hard for our various clubsides and stay healthy, because that will form the basis for invitation when we resume next year,” he said.

“The truth is that not everybody here will go to the World Cup, but that is how football goes, so those who want to be part of the team must remain fit and play regularly for their clubsides.”

England-based stars like Mikel Obi, Shola Ameobi and Victor Moses have since rejoined their clubs.

Keshi and other team officials are expected back in Nigeria on Thursday morning, as they will depart London Wednesday night via Heathrow Airport for Lagos.

Keshi is expected to start preparations for the 2014 CHAN early December, with only home-based professionals. The event holds in January in South Africa.

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"AND THE WINNER IS........"

Toyin Ibitoye was on Saturday night in Calabar awarded the prestigious Nigeria Football Pitch Award for the best TV journalist in Nigeria for the year 2013.

According to the awards organizers,Ibitoye's unique presentation style,maturity,attention to details and unbiased approach to issues stand him out,making Sports Tonite,the programme he produces and anchors every night(Monday through Friday) on Channels Television,the reference point for all those interested in keeping tabs with all the issues in Nigerian Sports and Football.

After receiving the Award,Toyin Ibitoye dedicated it to the memory of his late friend and producer Joe Ighile,who incidentally slumped and died while presenting the show on February 8,2013 while he (Toyin Ibitoye) was on his way to South Africa for the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations final.

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BATTLEGROUND CALABAR!

The U.J. Esuene Stadium earlier this evening. This is the venue of the make or mar encounter between ths Super Eagles of Nigeria and the Walya Antelopes of Ethiopia.

PICTURE COURTESY OF SUPERSPORT.COM

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KESHI PHILOSOPHICAL

Super Eagles boss, Stephen Okechukwu Keshi, has said there is need for first grade professionalism, total concentration and presence of mind at all times when the national team takes on their Ethiopian counterparts in the second leg, final round qualifier against Ethiopia on Saturday afternoon in Calabar.

The game is scheduled for the UJ Esuene Stadium and fans, supporters and administrators of the game have been trooping into Calabar City for the encounter.

"We have never played Ethiopia before, infact we don’t know them, but we want to win against them and win well," Keshi said during a last minute chat with the media in Calabar after the Eagles last training session in the Canaan City. 

He however expressed optimism that the team will not let the nation down in Saturday’s game despite the fact that the Ethiopians have not lost any game away in the qualifiers.

'We have also not lost any game away and we are the champions of Africa, we must be ready at all times for any opposition and I think that is what we are set to do on Saturday," he said.

CULLED FROM FUTAA.COM

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DEL BOSQUE EXTENDS CONTRACT

Spain coach Vicente Del Bosque has signed a new contract to stay in charge of the world champions until 2016.

The 62-year-old coached Real Madrid and Turkish club Besiktas before being appointed Spain in 2008. 

During his reign he has guided the team to the 2010 World Cup in South Africa and the 2012 European Championship. 

Spain, who have qualified for the 2014 World Cup, had the chance to add the Confederations Cup to their trophies in June but lost the final 3-0 to Brazil.

That was one of only six defeats the team have suffered in 82 matches under Del Bosque, who has presided over 67 victories.

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INTER MILAN GET NEW PRESIDENT AS MORATTI STEPS DOWN

Erick Thohir has been elected the new president of Inter Milan at a general board meeting.

After 18 years at the helm of the Serie A club, Thohir’s predecessor, Massimo Moratti, said the time had come to "pass the reins" to Thohir, who has taken a 70 percent share in the club.

“I am leaving this club with the certainty that I am leaving it to people who have a sense of responsibility and respect for the colours and the history of Inter,” Moratti said at a news conference in Milan. “Even meeting them yesterday at Appiano [Gentile, the club’s training ground] gave me the faith that we can move on and create something new.

“I'd like to thank everybody for giving me this marvellous experience and I wish everybody even greater successes to come.”

Massimo's son Angelomario will assume his family’s place on the board, with Massimo bidding the club adieu on an historic day as Thohir thanked his “friend and new partner” for his faith and support.

“Today is a very special day in my life,” he said. “Inter embodies within itself a splendid history of passion, a winning tradition and strong ambitions. Our conviction lies in our passion, which will pave the way for Inter to have new, greater successes. Forza Inter.”

The Indonesian plans to make Inter one of the top 10 clubs in the world over the next decade, counting on the hard work and support of everybody within the club while trying to attract new fans from Asia and the United States, all with the scope of “creating a winning team.”

Moratti will be honorary president of the new Inter, although he says it is only right that Thohir becomes the new authoritative figure, having turned down the chance to remain in his role.

“The new partners insisted that I or my son remain president, and I thank them for it,” he said. “Obviously it was not easy in terms of my affection, or given how close I felt the fans and the Inter people were to me, but thinking pragmatically, it was right to find a new partner, a partner who has the vivacity and ambition to bring something new to the club.

“Thohir will take this enthusiasm to countries which are growing and see Inter as a jewel. I and my son will try to be helpful to them.”

Thohir made a promising start to life as Inter's new president with his first words in Italian: Evoking a favourite chant of the Nerazzurri fans, he said the only people not jumping are Rossoneri.

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"I'M 100% CONFIDENT!" - Sewnet Bishaw

Ethiopia coach Sewnet Bishaw has vowed his men will give whatever it takes to overturn a first-leg defeat when they take on Nigeria in their World Cup play-off on Saturday.

Ethiopia hope to continue their surprising World Cup journey when they face Nigeria in the return leg, despite a 2-1 loss at home in mid-October.

Bishaw said in an interview "This is the biggest match of my life. I want to win it. I'll fight to the maximum.

"There's no problem in my squad. All of my players are fit and the mood in the camp is very high. Everybody is waiting for the kick-off whistle."

Nigeria won the first leg in Addis Ababa courtesy of a brace from Emanuel Emenike and the Super Eagles are clear favourites to book a place at next year's tournament in Brazil, which would be their fifth appearance at a finals.

However, Bishaw is confident his side can come back.

"I'm 100% confident of overturning the result. I'll only play for a win. Football involves a defeat and a win. We're defeated in the first leg doesn't mean we'll be defeated in the second leg," he said.

"I've not finished the match. I've 90 minutes left to play. I'll fight for a 2-0 win or for a 2-1 to take it in to extra-time. So, I want to remind them that it's not over yet."

Bishaw revealed he will leave it until the last moment possible to select his side in the quest to take the east Africans to their first finals.

The big boost for Bishaw is the return of his joint top scorer, Getaneh Kebede The striker missed the first leg of the play-offs because of an ankle injury.

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"ETHIOPIA WILL BE TOUGH!" - Onazi

Lazio midfielder, Ogenyi Onazi reckons Ethiopia’s Walia Ibex will give the Super Eagles a torrid time when the two sides face off in a second leg World Cup qualifying playoff in Calabar on Saturday.

The Super Eagles won the reverse fixture 2-1 in October and are now heavy favourites to progress to next year’s World Cup finals in Brazil.

Onazi however believes things will be a lot more complicated when the two sides eventually face off on Saturday and insists the Ethiopians showed great hunger for the solitary ticket up for grabs in the first leg in Addis Ababa.

“The Ethiopians did not really surprise me with the way they played (in the first leg) because I have been watching videos of their previous games.

“Our coach (Stephen Keshi) also told us that this Ethiopian team has been together for over five years so we knew we would be in for a difficult game.

“They showed in that first leg that they want to play in the World Cup and they will repeat that kind of performance (on Saturday),” Onazi said.

The 20-year-old then warned his teammates to avoid the pitfall of playing individualistic football which he predicted will spell doom for the African champions.

“If we don’t play as a team (on Saturday), we will lose (the game). The good thing is that one of our strongest points in this team is our unity. We play as a unit and fight for one another as brothers. We must continue to do that. We must not take Ethiopia for granted because they have never been to the World Cup before and they will want to get there.

We must give our all to ensure that it is Nigeria’s flag that will be hoisted at the World Cup and not Ethiopia’s,” he concluded.

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"SPRAY DE PEPPER!" Niger State reward Eaglets

Niger State Governor Mu'azu Babangida Aliyu has rewarded world champions Golden Eaglets with cash gifts.

Apart from the cash gift of 12 million Naira and 5 million Naira respectively to the players and technical crew, a cash gift of 3 million Naira was given to the accompanying NFF's board members and officials.
The Governor honoured the victorious team at a dinner banquet held at Justice Idris Legbo Kutigi International Conference Centre in Minna on Tuesday as part of activities to mark his 58th birthday anniversary. 

He said Nigerians should be proud of the Eaglets' achievement in the UAE. He said it was gratifying to note that the team was exemplary throughout the competition and therefore deserved to be celebrated.
"We are very proud of what these youngsters have done in lifting the image of the country through their collective efforts," Babangida said. 
"With their performance, these young boys gave us a positive image throughout the world and they showed the resilience of being Nigerians."
“We want you to remain focused and don't relent in your efforts; and please don't neglect your education which is very important," he said, advising the NFF to keep the team intact for future challenges.

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"IT'S GREAT TO BE BACK!" - Bright Dike

Toronto FC striker Bright Dike has said that he is delighted to return to the Super Eagles after a long absence.   
Dike, who missed the final cut to the 2013 AFCON and then suffered a long-term knee injury, was a late replacement for injured Heerenveen striker Uche Nwofor. 
  
The hefty hitman said he missed the Eagles and was like being away from his family. 
  
"I am excited to be back in the Eagles. It's like when someone is away from his family and then comes back to them, it is always a great feeling. Whenever I put on the green and white jersey, I do it with pride," Dike revealed.
  
"I have had the first training (Tuesday evening) and it went well." 
  
He added: “I will give 100% to ensure Nigeria are in Brazil for the World Cup.” 
  
The former Portland Timbers striker made his debut on November 14, 2012, in a 3-1 victory over Venezuela in a friendly at Marlins Park in Miami, Florida, USA. 
  
Dike scored his first goal for Nigeria in a 1-1 draw in another friendly against Catalonia.

CULLED FROM MTNFootball.com

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THE ETHIOPIANS ARE IN TOWN!

The Wayla Antelopes of Ethiopia have arrived Calabar, the capital City of Cross River State for Saturday’s 2014 World Cup second leg play-off clash against the Super Eagles of Nigeria.

The Ethiopians touched down at the Margaret Ekpo International Airport on Thursday afternoon on board a chartered flight with some of their fans, who are expected to cheer them to victory against the Eagles before proceeding to their camp at the Channel View hotels. 

Ethiopia needs an outright win in Nigeria to seal a place in the Brazil 2014 World Cup after losing at home 2-1 in the first leg match played on October 13 in Addis Ababa thanks to two superb strikes from Fenerbahce forward Emmanuel Emenike.

CULLED FROM FUTAA.COM

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MERCY AKIDE INDUCTED INTO USL HALL OF FAME!

Former Super Falcons star Mercy Akide-Udoh alongside two other individuals have been chosen for the USL Men’s and Women’s Hall of Fame Class of 2013. The lone inductee into the USL Men’s Hall of Fame in 2013 is Charleston Battery Head Coach Mike Anhaeuser (Coach), while Charlotte Lady Eagles President Pat Stewart (Builder) and former Hampton Roads Piranhas star Mercy Akide-Udoh (Player) will join the Women’s Hall of Fame.

These individuals are being recognized for helping to make USL a success through the years because of their tremendous efforts and personal sacrifices made on behalf of the sport of soccer in North America.

One of the most indelible names associated with the Hampton Roads (Virginia Beach) Piranhas, Akide spent seven seasons with the club, helping it to a championship in 2003. Akide appeared in 73 regular season games with the Piranhas, tallying 44 goals and 16 assists. She was named MVP of the 2003 W-League Championship when she scored the winning goal in overtime.

Also widely recognized as one of the most famous and accomplished women’s player to come out of Africa, Akide represented the Nigerian Women’s National Team nearly 100 times and holds the record for most international goals scored by an African woman. She represented Nigeria
at three FIFA Women’s World Cup tournaments, two Olympic Games and three African Women’s Championship tournaments. She is also a three-time nominee for FIFA World Player of the Year and has been a two-time FIFA All Star. She earned NAIA All-American honors while playing with Milligan College, and became the first African woman to play professionally when she joined the WUSA’s San Diego Spirit. Akide has been a youth coach with Beach FC in Virginia since 2008.

The USL Hall of Fame Class of 2013 will be inducted at the USL Hall of Fame Banquet on Friday, December 13, 2013 at the Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach. Honorees were chosen through a vote of current Hall of Fame members, USL teams and the USL Hall of Fame Committee.

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