2024/2025 CAF Champions League - First Round Fixtures

 The highly anticipated first round of the 2024/2025 CAF Champions League kicks off on November 26th, with thrilling encounters across various venues. African football’s elite teams will be vying for a spot in the next stage of the competition, and the opening fixtures promise plenty of excitement. Here's a detailed look at the schedule for the first round:

26th November 2024 - Round 1

• 17:00 – Mamelodi Sundowns (RSA) vs. Maniema (DRC)
• 17:00 – Pyramids (EGY) vs. Sagrada (ANG)
• 20:00 – CR Belouizdad (ALG) vs. Orlando Pirates (RSA)
• 20:00 – Esperance Tunis (TUN) vs. Djoliba (MLI)
• 20:00 – Raja Casablanca (MAR) vs. FAR Rabat (MAR)

In this opening round, Mamelodi Sundowns, the South African powerhouse, will host Maniema from the Democratic Republic of Congo. Meanwhile, Egyptian side Pyramids will battle Angola’s Sagrada.

The 20:00 games feature a fascinating match-up between CR Belouizdad of Algeria and South Africa’s Orlando Pirates, while Esperance Tunis will meet Djoliba from Mali. The final fixture of the day will see two Moroccan teams, Raja Casablanca and FAR Rabat, face off.

Barbra Banda Crowned BBC Women's Footballer of the Year: A Triumph for Zambia and African Football

 Zambia’s Barbra Banda has made history, earning the prestigious BBC Women's Footballer of the Year award. The 24-year-old Orlando Pride forward was voted the winner by fans across the globe following a standout year that solidified her as one of the brightest stars in women’s football.

The accolade, based on performances from September 2023 to August 2024, was determined by a five-player shortlist selected by an international panel of football experts, including coaches, players, administrators, and journalists. Banda topped the list, surpassing football heavyweights like Spain’s Aitana Bonmati and USA’s Sophia Smith, who finished second and third, respectively.

A Stellar Year for Banda

Banda’s achievements this year are nothing short of extraordinary. At the Paris Olympics, she became the leading African goalscorer in Olympic history, netting four goals, including a sensational first-half hat-trick against Australia, bringing her tally to 10 Olympic goals.

In the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), Banda’s impact was immediate and profound. Joining Orlando Pride in March, she scored 13 goals during the regular season and an additional four in the playoffs. Her crowning moment came in the championship final, where she scored the decisive goal to secure Orlando Pride’s maiden NWSL title. For her exceptional contributions, she was named the league’s Most Valuable Player (MVP).

Reflecting on her win, Banda expressed her surprise and gratitude:
"I am shocked and surprised to have this award right by my side," she told BBC Sport. "I would like to thank the people who voted and everyone who has played a part in my life and career—my family, my national team in Zambia, and especially my Pride teammates. This award is for everyone."

Breaking Records and Barriers

Banda's transfer to Orlando Pride earlier this year also made headlines. Joining the team for $740,000 (£581,000), she became the second-most expensive women’s player in history, behind her Zambia teammate Racheal Kundananji. Despite the pressure that comes with such a price tag, Banda delivered stellar performances that justified every penny.

Her journey to the top is as inspiring as it is remarkable. Banda, a former professional boxer with an undefeated record of five wins, transitioned to football against societal and familial odds. Growing up in Zambia, where cultural norms often discouraged girls from pursuing sports, Banda faced significant challenges.
"Parents never used to believe that women could play football, so it was a challenge," she recalled. "My mum was not in support of it, but when women's football started being recognised in Zambia, she came to understand and let me do what I love most."

A Humble Star with a Team-First Mentality

Orlando Pride head coach Seb Hines praised Banda’s humility and dedication:
"It is great to see Barbra getting acknowledged for what she has done, not only for our club but for African football. She is super humble and a good person, and that means a lot to us to have good people in our team. She is a team player, and for all of the accolades she has won, she puts the team first."

Elevating African Women’s Football

Banda’s rise reflects the growing recognition of African talent on the global stage. Her story resonates with aspiring athletes across the continent, proving that hard work and determination can overcome even the toughest challenges.

With her sights set on the future, Banda remains focused on her goals:
"My aim always is to score because I love scoring. But it all starts from practice, having good training sessions and good talks with the coaches and teammates. It has not been easy, but I think hard work and consistency have really helped."

Barbra Banda’s journey is more than a personal triumph—it’s a beacon of hope and a testament to the potential of African women in football. As she continues to break records and inspire a generation, the world will undoubtedly see more of this Zambian superstar in the years to come.

Kenya’s Sgt. Caroline Cherotich Wins Gold in Women’s Discus at Africa Military Games

 Kenyan discus thrower Sgt. Caroline Cherotich delivered a stellar performance at the ongoing Africa Military Games (AMGA) 2024 in Abuja, Nigeria, clinching the gold medal in the women’s discus throw. Cherotich's impressive throw of 48.00 meters secured her place at the top of the podium, showcasing both her skill and the strength of Kenya’s athletics tradition.

The competition was fierce, with Ethiopia's Zurga Usman Musa taking home the silver medal. Musa’s throw, while commendable, fell short of Cherotich’s mark, leaving her in second place. South Africa’s Daleen Fleming rounded out the podium, earning the bronze medal in what was a highly competitive field of athletes representing their nations.

Cherotich’s victory adds to Kenya's growing medal tally at the AMGA 2024, highlighting the country's dominance not just in middle- and long-distance running but also in field events. Speaking after her victory, Sgt. Cherotich expressed gratitude to her team and her nation, dedicating the win to her military peers and fans back home.

The Africa Military Games, a biennial event that brings together military athletes from across the continent, provides a platform for showcasing discipline, talent, and camaraderie among African nations. This year’s event in Abuja has drawn significant attention, with top-tier athletes competing across various disciplines.

Kenya’s track and field contingent has been particularly impressive, making a strong statement at the games. Sgt. Cherotich’s triumph in the discus throw is a testament to the rigorous preparation and determination that have become hallmarks of the nation’s athletes.

As the games progress, all eyes will remain on the track, field, and other arenas to see which athletes will rise to the occasion and bring glory to their respective nations. Sgt. Cherotich’s golden moment will surely inspire her teammates and competitors alike to aim higher and achieve greatness.

Thrilling NPFL Matchday 13: Plateau United and Rivers United Shine as Goals Flow Across Nigeria

The Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL) Matchday 13 delivered thrilling action over the weekend, with several teams solidifying their positions on the league table. Plateau United extended their unbeaten run with a convincing 2-0 victory over Nasarawa United on Sunday. Goals from their forwards ensured they secured maximum points at home, keeping them in contention for the top spots.

In other matches, Rivers United edged out Abia Warriors 1-0 in a closely contested encounter. The home side capitalized on a defensive error to score the decisive goal, maintaining their strong home form. Katsina United also put on an impressive performance, defeating Remo Stars 2-0 in a game that showcased their attacking prowess.

Shooting Stars earned a hard-fought 1-0 win against Bayelsa United, with their solitary goal coming from a brilliant set-piece play. The visitors struggled to break down the organized Shooting Stars defense, leaving them without points on the road.

Saturday’s fixtures saw El-Kanemi Warriors claim a narrow 1-0 victory over Akwa United, while Niger Tornadoes and Ikorodu City played out a goalless draw. Bendel Insurance produced one of the standout performances of the weekend, thrashing Kwara United 3-1 in an emphatic display of attacking football.

Elsewhere, Lobi Stars and Kano Pillars shared the spoils in an entertaining 2-2 draw that kept fans on the edge of their seats. Heartland and Enugu Rangers settled for a 0-0 stalemate, with both sides unable to convert their chances in a match characterized by solid defensive displays.

Meanwhile, the clash between Enyimba and Sunshine Stars was postponed, with the league authorities yet to announce a new date for the encounter.

As the season progresses, the NPFL continues to provide excitement and drama, with teams battling for supremacy in one of Africa’s most competitive leagues. Fans will be looking forward to the next round of fixtures as the race for the title and survival heats up.

Celebrating African Excellence: CAF Unveils Women’s Nominees for the 2024 Awards

 The stage is set for an exhilarating celebration of African women’s football, as the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has revealed the official shortlist for the 2024 Women’s CAF Awards. In an event that highlights exceptional talent across the continent, the nominees reflect the remarkable strides made by female athletes and teams in African football.

The coveted Women’s Player of the Year category features a dazzling array of talent. Nigeria’s Chiamaka Nnadozie (Paris FC) and Rasheedat Ajibade (Atletico Madrid) are among the 10 finalists, alongside Malawi's dynamic duo of Tabitha Chawinga (Olympique Lyonnais) and Temwa Chawinga (Kansas City). South Africa’s Thembi Kgatlana (Tigres UANL) and Zambia’s sensational Barbara Banda (Orlando Pride) join the list, promising fierce competition.

In the Goalkeeper of the Year category, Nigerian shot-stoppers Chiamaka Nnadozie (Paris FC) and Monle Oyono (Edo Queens) lead a strong contingent, battling against South Africa’s ever-reliable Andile Dlamini (Mamelodi Sundowns) and Morocco’s Khadija Er-Rmichi (AS FAR).

The Young Player of the Year award sees rising stars like Nigeria’s Flourish Sabastine (Stade de Reims) and Morocco’s Doha El Madani (AS FAR) in the spotlight, alongside Ghana’s Stella Nyamekye (Dreamz Ladies) and South Africa’s Nthabiseng Majiya (Mamelodi Sundowns).

Recognizing exceptional leadership, the Coach of the Year category features Nigeria’s Bankole Olowookere (U-17) and Chris Danjuma (U-20) alongside Morocco’s Mohamed Amine Alioua (AS FAR) and South Africa’s Thinasonke Mbuli (University of the Western Cape).

The highly competitive National Team of the Year category includes the senior teams of Nigeria, South Africa, Malawi, and Zambia, as well as youth teams like Nigeria U-17, Cameroon U-20, and Morocco U-20.

At the club level, AS FAR (Morocco), Mamelodi Sundowns (South Africa), and Edo Queens (Nigeria) headline the nominees for the Club of the Year award, showcasing the rising prominence of African women’s club football.

Scheduled to take place on December 16, 2024, in the iconic city of Marrakech, Morocco, the awards night promises to be a glittering celebration of talent, resilience, and the indomitable spirit of African women in football.

As the countdown begins, fans and stakeholders eagerly anticipate the crowning of these outstanding players, coaches, and teams who have etched their names into the annals of African football history.

Africa Awaits: CAF Unveils Final Nominees for the Prestigious 2024 Awards

 The African football community is buzzing with excitement as the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially unveiled the final shortlist for the much-anticipated 2024 CAF Awards, set to take place on December 16, 2024, in the enchanting city of Marrakech, Morocco.

Nigeria’s football pride shines brightly as Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman and goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali earn their spots among Africa’s elite. Lookman, whose dazzling performances for Atalanta have caught the world's eye, is vying for the CAF Men’s Player of the Year, competing against a formidable lineup including Ivory Coast’s Simon Adingra (Brighton & Hove Albion), Guinea’s Serhou Guirassy (Borussia Dortmund), Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi (Paris Saint-Germain), and South Africa’s Ronwen Williams (Mamelodi Sundowns).

Meanwhile, Stanley Nwabali, the rock between the sticks for Chippa United, is in contention for the Goalkeeper of the Year award, standing tall alongside Cameroon’s Andre Onana (Manchester United), Ivory Coast’s Yahia Fofana (Angers SCO), Egypt’s Mostafa Shobeir (Al Ahly), and South Africa’s Ronwen Williams, who earns a double nomination.

Other notable categories include the Young Player of the Year, where emerging talents like Cote d’Ivoire’s Karim Konate (Salzburg) and Gambia’s Yankuba Minteh (Brighton & Hove Albion) are poised to make their mark, and the Club of the Year, where African football giants such as Egypt’s Al Ahly, South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns, and Tunisia’s Esperance Sportive de Tunis vie for supremacy.

The spotlight also turns to the National Team of the Year, with Nigeria facing stiff competition from DR Congo, South Africa, Sudan, and hosts Côte d’Ivoire.

As the countdown begins to this glittering celebration of African football excellence, fans across the continent and beyond eagerly await the moment when the winners will be crowned. December 16 in Marrakech promises to be a night of magic, recognition, and a powerful celebration of the talent that makes African football a global spectacle.

Kenya Shines at Cinque Mulini Cross Country with Dominant Performances in Italy

Kenyan athletes reaffirmed their dominance on the global cross-country stage with a stunning display at the Cinque Mulini Cross Country in San Vittore, Italy, on Sunday. Matthew Kipruto, the World Cross Country Junior bronze medalist, led a magnificent podium sweep in the men’s race, while Sheila Jebet secured another podium finish in the women’s event.

Matthew Kipruto showcased his exceptional form by clinching his first major victory in nearly two years. The 19-year-old clocked an impressive 27:26 over the grueling course to secure the top spot. Kipruto’s strategic pacing and strong finish left his compatriots in his wake, solidifying Kenya’s dominance in long-distance running. World Under-20 5000m champion Andrew Alamisi pushed Kipruto to the limit, finishing just three seconds behind at 27:29. Meanwhile, Matthew Kipchumba, another rising star in Kenyan athletics, rounded out the podium with a time of 27:45.

For Kipruto, this win marked a triumphant return to the top. His last victory was in May 2022 at the Ishikawa Championships in Japan, where he excelled in the 1500m. He also recently demonstrated his prowess with a third-place finish at the Birell 10km race in Praha, Czech Republic, in 27:50.

In the women’s 6.2km race, Sheila Jebet continued her remarkable 2024 campaign with a hard-fought second-place finish. The 18-year-old clocked 18:48, narrowly missing out on gold to Ethiopia’s Yenenesh Shimket, who triumphed in 18:35. Italy’s Nadia Battocletti, the Olympic 10,000m silver medalist, claimed third place with a time of 18:49. Jebet’s performance follows her second-place finish at the Cardiff Cross Country Challenge in Wales just a week ago, where she clocked 20:16.

Despite narrowly missing out on top honors, the young Kenyan has consistently proven her mettle on the international stage. Her second podium finish of 2024 underscores her potential as one of Kenya’s brightest young talents. This follows a challenging 2023 season where she placed fifth in the 5000m at the World Under-20 Championships, clocking 15:51.93.

The Cinque Mulini Cross Country has long been a prestigious event in the athletics calendar, and Kenya’s continued dominance is a testament to the nation’s rich tradition of producing world-class distance runners. With Kipruto and Jebet leading the charge, Kenya’s athletes have once again demonstrated their ability to conquer the toughest international competitions. As the 2024 season unfolds, all eyes will be on these young stars as they continue to make their mark on the global stage.

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Rivers Hoopers Crowned Nigeria Basketball League Champions for the Sixth Time

 Rivers Hoopers have etched their name further into Nigerian basketball history by claiming their sixth Nigeria Basketball League title. The Port Harcourt-based team emerged victorious after a commanding 71-54 win against Hoops & Read in the finals held yesterday, successfully defending the title they won last season.

The triumph marks another milestone for the Hoopers, who have now claimed the national championship in 2011, 2012, 2019, 2021, 2023, and 2024. With this victory, the Rivers Hoopers also secured a spot in the Basketball Africa League (BAL) for the third time, cementing their status as one of the continent’s elite teams.

The Hoopers’ road to glory was not without its challenges, both on and off the court. However, the team showcased resilience and determination throughout the league season, culminating in a dominant performance in the finals against a spirited Hoops & Read side.

Hoops & Read, who finished as runners-up, put up a commendable fight but could not match the tactical brilliance and scoring prowess of the Hoopers. Gboko City secured third place, while Nile University rounded off the top four.With this victory, Rivers Hoopers will represent Nigeria at the prestigious Basketball Africa League (BAL) in 2025. The team’s previous outings in the BAL have been a source of pride for Nigerian basketball, and they will aim to improve upon their past performances on the continental stage.

The Hoopers’ dominance in Nigerian basketball is unparalleled, and this latest achievement underscores their commitment to excellence. Team officials, players, and fans alike have celebrated the victory as another step in their mission to elevate the sport in Nigeria and beyond.

As the team prepares for the BAL 2025, Rivers Hoopers will undoubtedly aim to build on their domestic success to make a strong impact on the African stage. For now, the sweet taste of victory resonates, as the champions bask in the glory of yet another remarkable season.

Nigeria Set to Face Rwanda in Final AFCON Qualifier in Uyo

 The stage is set for the Super Eagles of Nigeria as they conclude their qualification campaign for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with a clash against Rwanda on Monday, November 20, at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.

Having already secured their place at the tournament, the Super Eagles will aim to finish their campaign on a high note with a strong performance in front of their home fans. With three-time AFCON champions already assured of a spot in Morocco next year, the match serves as an opportunity for head coach Augustine Eguavoe to fine-tune his tactics and assess his squad ahead of the continental showdown.

Nigeria’s Campaign So Far

The Super Eagles' journey through the qualifiers has been marked by resilience and key moments of brilliance. Securing 11 points from their five games, they ensured qualification early, following a 1-1 draw against Benin and Rwanda’s surprising home loss to Libya in the previous round. The team’s depth and quality have been evident throughout the campaign, with key players like Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Moses Simon stepping up when needed.

Spotlight on the Opponents

Rwanda, meanwhile, head into this fixture with faint hopes of qualification. The Amavubi will need not only a victory in Uyo but also a favorable result in the other Group D match between Benin and Libya. With just five points from their five games, Rwanda's chances appear slim, but they will undoubtedly be motivated to cause an upset.

Key Players to Watch

All eyes will be on Nigeria's attacking talisman Victor Osimhen, whose heroics have often inspired the team. The Napoli striker will be supported by the likes of Kelechi Iheanacho, Alex Iwobi, and Wilfred Ndidi in midfield, creating a formidable lineup against Rwanda.

Rwanda, on the other hand, will rely on skipper Olivier Niyonzima and forward Meddie Kagere to trouble the Nigerian defense.

What’s at Stake

For Nigeria, the match presents an opportunity to solidify their dominance in Group D and send a message to other AFCON contenders. The fans in Uyo, known for their passionate support, will expect nothing less than a commanding victory from their beloved Super Eagles.

Rwanda will look to salvage pride and fight for a slim chance of progressing, making this an intriguing encounter to cap off the qualifiers.

The action kicks off at 6 PM local time, and all eyes will be on the Super Eagles as they aim to wrap up their qualifying campaign in style.

CAF Women’s Champions League: FAR Rabat and TP Mazembe Secure Commanding Victories in Final Group Stage Matches

 The CAF Women’s Champions League group stage concluded in thrilling fashion yesterday, with FAR Rabat and TP Mazembe showcasing their dominance in Matchday 3 fixtures.

FAR Rabat secured a comfortable 2-0 victory over UWC, solidifying their place as one of the tournament's standout teams. Demonstrating tactical discipline and clinical finishing, FAR Rabat’s attacking duo took control of the game, with key goals coming in both halves. UWC struggled to break through the Moroccan side’s organized defense, leaving them unable to impact the outcome in their final group stage game.

Meanwhile, TP Mazembe delivered an emphatic 4-0 victory over Aigles de la Médina, asserting their position as a formidable contender in the competition. The Congolese giants dominated from the first whistle, showcasing their attacking flair and resilience. Goals flowed effortlessly as their forwards capitalized on Aigles de la Médina’s defensive lapses.

The victories for FAR Rabat and TP Mazembe not only underline their ambitions in the tournament but also set the stage for an exciting knockout phase. Both teams have displayed exceptional quality and will be teams to watch as the competition progresses.

Fans across Africa and beyond eagerly await the next phase of the CAF Women’s Champions League, as the continent’s top clubs continue their quest for continental glory.

CAF Women’s Champions League: Final Group Stage Showdowns Set for Today

 The CAF Women’s Champions League group stage wraps up today with two thrilling fixtures that will determine the next phase of the tournament. All eyes are on the decisive encounters as teams battle for supremacy and a place in the knockout stages.

At 18:00, Aigles de la Médina will face TP Mazembe in a crucial Group A clash. Both teams are eager to make their mark in the competition, with Mazembe looking to secure a spot in the next round, while Aigles aim to bow out with pride.

In another pivotal fixture at 18:00, UWC will go head-to-head with defending champions FAR Rabat. The Moroccan giants, FAR Rabat, have displayed dominance throughout the tournament and are poised to solidify their position as group leaders. Meanwhile, UWC will look to cause an upset and potentially shift the balance in the group standings.

The stakes couldn’t be higher as fans anticipate a thrilling end to the group stages. With knockout spots on the line, today’s matches promise drama, excitement, and unforgettable moments in African women’s football. Stay tuned for the results!

Thrilling NPFL Weekend Fixtures Promise Exciting Showdowns

 The Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) promises another action-packed weekend as teams prepare to take the pitch for crucial battles in the ongoing season. With the stakes high for clubs across the table, fans are in for a thrilling football experience.

The action kicks off on Saturday with Akwa United hosting Nasarawa United at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo. Akwa United will look to secure all three points in front of their home crowd, while Nasarawa United aim to end their recent poor run.

Sunday’s fixtures are headlined by mouthwatering clashes, with multiple games slated for the afternoon. In Maiduguri, El-Kanemi Warriors will take on Niger Tornadoes at 3 PM, aiming to climb out of the relegation zone. Meanwhile, Bayelsa United will play host to Katsina United in Yenagoa, with both teams eager to strengthen their positions in the league.

In Lagos, Ikorodu City welcomes Shooting Stars for what is expected to be an intense encounter. Enugu Rangers will lock horns with Bendel Insurance in a classic tie at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, while Sunshine Stars battle Lobi Stars in Akure in another gripping fixture.

The Abia derby is set to draw massive attention as Abia Warriors face Enyimba in Umuahia. With pride and valuable points on the line, this match could be a highlight of the weekend. Remo Stars will host Rivers United in Ikenne, with both teams seeking to solidify their standing in the league’s top echelon.

Kwara United and Plateau United will meet in Ilorin, while Kano Pillars take on Heartland at the Sani Abacha Stadium, rounding off what promises to be an exhilarating Sunday for NPFL fans.

With all games scheduled for 4 PM on Sunday except for El-Kanemi Warriors vs. Niger Tornadoes, which kicks off at 3 PM, this weekend’s fixtures are set to provide plenty of goals, drama, and memorable moments. Fans are encouraged to support their teams and enjoy the best of Nigerian football.

Stay tuned as the NPFL continues to deliver excitement across the country, with clubs vying for supremacy and survival in one of Africa’s most competitive leagues.

Super Eagles Advance to AFCON 2025 as Group D Contenders Falter

 The Super Eagles of Nigeria have officially secured their place in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), set to take place in Morocco starting December 21, 2025. The qualification came after a dramatic 1-1 draw against Benin Republic at the Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny in Abidjan on Thursday, November 14. However, their ticket to the continental showpiece had already been guaranteed earlier in the day, courtesy of Rwanda’s surprising 1-0 loss to Libya in Kigali.

The three-time AFCON champions entered the match against Benin aware that avoiding defeat would cement their position among Africa’s elite teams. Yet, even before kickoff, Libya's victory over Rwanda eliminated any mathematical chance for the Amavubi to catch up to Nigeria’s ten-point tally. This result ensured Nigeria's qualification regardless of their performance against the Cheetahs.

The encounter against Benin proved to be a stern test for the Super Eagles. The hosts, fighting for their own qualification, struck first in the 16th minute. Mohamed Tijani capitalized on a defensive lapse to head the ball through goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali's legs, sending the home fans into a frenzy. The goal ignited Benin’s hopes of challenging Nigeria for a spot in the prestigious tournament.

Despite the early setback, Nigeria dominated possession and created numerous chances, with Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Kelechi Iheanacho leading the attack. However, a resolute Benin defense, coupled with missed opportunities, kept the Super Eagles at bay for much of the game. Interim coach Augustine Eguavoen made tactical changes in the second half, introducing Moses Simon and Raphael Onyedika to inject fresh energy into the team. The decision paid off in the 81st minute when Simon delivered a perfect cross that Osimhen expertly headed into the net, restoring parity and dashing Benin’s hopes of securing an upset victory.

The draw ensured that Nigeria maintained their unbeaten record in the qualifiers, solidifying their top-two finish in Group D. The result also left Benin’s qualification hopes hanging by a thread, as they must now battle Rwanda for the group’s second ticket to Morocco.

For Nigeria, this qualification marks yet another chapter in their storied history at the Africa Cup of Nations. As preparations begin for the tournament, fans will hope the Super Eagles can build on their performance and aim for their fourth continental title in Morocco next year