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Iwobi Hits 100th Cap but Super Eagles Lose 2–1 to Portugal as Chelle’s Unbeaten Streak Ends in Leiria

Alex Iwobi joins Nigerian legends with century of appearances, but Eagles’ 25-match run snapped in World Cup warm-up

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Alex Iwobi joins Nigerian legends with century of appearances, but Eagles’ 25-match run snapped in World Cup warm-up

Alex Iwobi marked his landmark 100th appearance for the Super Eagles, but Nigeria fell 2–1 to Portugal at Estádio Dr Magalhães Pessoa in Leiria on Wednesday night. Pedro Neto opened scoring for Portugal in the 23rd minute before Akor Adams equalised for Nigeria, only for Francisco Conceicao to snatch the winner and hand Roberto Martinez’s men the victory. The defeat ends Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle’s remarkable 25-match unbeaten run in regulation time, which had produced 16 wins and nine draws ahead of this final FIFA World Cup warm-up.

The match started with both sides probing for early control. Portugal struck first through Pedro Neto after just 23 minutes. Akor Adams brought the Super Eagles level soon after, giving Nigerian fans hope of extending their team’s streak. However, Francisco Conceicao settled matters in favour of the hosts with a decisive goal that proved enough despite Nigeria’s efforts to respond.

For Super Eagles supporters, the result stings not just because of the loss but because it halts a record run under Chelle’s leadership. However, Alex Iwobi’s individual achievement gave reason for celebration. The Fulham midfielder is now only the fourth player ever to reach a century of caps for Nigeria, joining Joseph Yobo (also on 100), Ahmed Musa and Vincent Enyeama atop the all-time appearance list. CAF reacted to Iwobi’s feat on social media by calling him “iconic,” while Iwobi himself told the Nigeria Football Federation he was “proud to wear the green-and-white” despite missing out on major trophies so far.

“I am proud to be where I am today; proud to wear the green-and-white. I have no regrets choosing Nigeria,” Iwobi said via NFF channels. The midfielder also revealed his uncle Jay Jay Okocha and family members were consulted before switching allegiance from England at youth level. No immediate reaction was issued by Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle or other officials at press time.

The Super Eagles will now regroup ahead of their next international fixture, with details yet to be confirmed as they prepare for life beyond a historic unbeaten streak and continue their search for major honours.

Source: https://punchng.com/caf-hails-iconic-iwobi-after-100-nigeria-apps/

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Nigeria Sport (Soft click)

Morocco’s Semi-Final Run Inspires African Teams as World Cup Kicks Off Across Three Nations

Senegal’s Iliman Ndiaye and South Africa captain Ronwen Williams say Morocco’s 2022 heroics have raised ambitions for all ten African sides

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June 12, 2026

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Senegal’s Iliman Ndiaye and South Africa captain Ronwen Williams say Morocco’s 2022 heroics have raised ambitions for all ten African sides

As the 2026 FIFA World Cup begins in Mexico, Canada, and the United States, Africa’s ten representatives are targeting new heights after Morocco’s historic semi-final run at Qatar 2022. The final results from opening matches were not confirmed in available reports, but belief is surging among players and fans that an African team could break new ground on football’s biggest stage.

Africa enters this expanded tournament with a record ten countries: Algeria, Cape Verde, Côte d’Ivoire, DR Congo, Egypt, Ghana, Morocco, Senegal, South Africa and Tunisia. No African side has lifted the trophy since the competition began in 1930. Cameroon (1990), Senegal (2002) and Ghana (2010) previously reached the quarter-finals before Morocco made history by going one step further four years ago.

For Super Eagles supporters and other African fans, this World Cup carries a sense of opportunity rarely felt before. The increased number of slots signals growing respect for African football globally. Morocco’s performance in Qatar shifted expectations continent-wide; now players like Senegal forward Iliman Ndiaye insist they are travelling to North America to compete for the title — not just to participate.

South Africa captain Ronwen Williams told BBC World Service that recent improvements in African leagues and competitions have set the stage for success: “What Morocco did, that was the start for us as Africans to believe that we can go far,” Williams said. Former Ghana midfielder Michael Essien added that with more teams involved and greater progress across the continent, “the only thing that’s missing is luck.” Neither the Super Eagles coaching staff nor the Nigerian Football Federation had issued a statement at press time.

Africa’s next fixtures at this World Cup will see all ten teams begin their campaigns over the coming days. Fans across Nigeria and beyond will be watching closely to see which side can build on Morocco’s legacy — and possibly go one better.

Source: https://punchng.com/african-stars-eye-upset-at-mundial/

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History Beckons as Nigeria Set to Host First-Ever Senior Commonwealth Fencing Championships in Lagos

CFF hails Nigeria’s bid after months of technical checks and site visits; 16 nations expected in August showdown

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June 12, 2026

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CFF hails Nigeria’s bid after months of technical checks and site visits; 16 nations expected in August showdown

Nigeria will make history this August as the first African nation to host the senior Commonwealth Fencing Championships, with Lagos chosen as the venue following a rigorous selection process. The event, sanctioned by Commonwealth Sport and overseen by the Commonwealth Fencing Federation (CFF), marks a major milestone for fencing on the continent.

According to CFF President Marie-France Dufour, Nigeria emerged top after a competitive bidding round, impressing with its robust preparations and support systems. Dufour confirmed that the CFF Technical Committee has already held around 20 virtual meetings with local organisers and completed a technical inspection of facilities in Lagos. International referees are secured, and experienced event managers have been deployed to guide operations on ground.

For Nigerian sports fans, this is not just about hosting duties – it’s about raising the profile of fencing nationally and across Africa. With athletes coming from 16 countries including Australia, England, India, South Africa, Singapore and Ghana, plus an expanded Under-23 category to boost participation, the championships promise high-level competition and new opportunities for local fencers.

Dufour said in her statement: “The hosting rights were awarded by Commonwealth Sport to the CFF… Nigeria’s bid was selected through this process, reflecting the spirit of the Commonwealth.” She added that all logistics – from referee resources to registration systems – have been vetted for international standards. No quotes from Nigerian officials or athletes were available at press time.

The championships will hold in Lagos this August (exact dates not specified in available reports). With technical oversight ongoing and liaison with World Para Fencing continuing, all eyes will be on Nigeria as it prepares to welcome some of the best fencing talent from across the Commonwealth.

Source: https://punchng.com/nigeria-ready-for-commonwealth-fencing-champs-cff/

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Burna Boy Joins Shakira to Ignite 2026 World Cup Opener as Mexico Hosts for Record Third Time

Fans scramble outside Estadio Azteca as Burna Boy and Shakira perform ‘Dai Dai’, the official tournament song

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June 12, 2026

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Fans scramble outside Estadio Azteca as Burna Boy and Shakira perform ‘Dai Dai’, the official tournament song

Nigerian superstar Burna Boy and Colombian pop icon Shakira set Estadio Azteca, Mexico City, buzzing on Thursday night with a vibrant performance of ‘Dai Dai’ at the opening ceremony of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The colourful show marked the start of a historic tournament, with Mexico hosting for a record third time and co-hosts United States and Canada joining in for an expanded format.

As fireworks lit up the 80,000-capacity stadium—previously home to legendary finals graced by Pele and Diego Maradona—Burna Boy took centre stage alongside Shakira, while Mexican stars Alejandro Fernandez, Lila Downs, and Belinda added local flavour. Dancers circled a giant replica of the World Cup trophy in a display that had fans inside on their feet. The ceremony preceded the competition’s first match between hosts Mexico and South Africa, but the final score was not reported at press time.

For Nigerian fans, Burna Boy’s presence on such a global stage is another major milestone for Afrobeats. With ‘Dai Dai’ chosen as the official World Cup anthem, Nigeria’s music now stands alongside football’s greatest spectacle. The expanded tournament will feature 48 teams and 104 matches, with the final scheduled for July 19 in New Jersey.

No official comments from Burna Boy or the Super Eagles camp were available at press time. Local authorities in Mexico City faced challenges outside the stadium as thousands of fans jostled to enter fan zones blocked by barriers due to teacher protests; police struggled to maintain order while President Claudia Sheinbaum reconsidered her attendance because of ongoing demonstrations.

The next focus shifts to action on the pitch as group matches begin. Notably, Mexico have included 17-year-old Gilberto Mora among their substitutes, making him the youngest player at this year’s tournament. Football fans worldwide now turn their attention to upcoming fixtures as the World Cup kicks off in earnest.

Source: https://punchng.com/shakira-burna-boy-light-up-world-cup-opening-ceremony/

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