Dolphins Stun MFM, Titans Edge Customs as Zenith Bank Women’s Basketball Super 8 Opens in Lagos

 The Zenith Bank Women’s Basketball League Super 8 tipped off on Friday in Lagos with pulsating action, thrilling comebacks, and a dramatic upset as Dolphins rallied from behind to beat MFM 51–41 in the headline clash of Match Day One.

MFM looked unstoppable in the early stages, racing to a 17–5 lead in the first quarter and maintaining control through the third at 37–34. But the fourth quarter told a different story. Dolphins turned on the style, dominating the final stretch to snatch a stunning 10-point victory and silence MFM’s fast start.

In another tightly contested battle, Titans held their nerve to defeat Nigeria Customs 51–47. The Titans appeared in control after stretching their lead to 36–23 in the third quarter, but Customs refused to go down without a fight, clawing back in the final minutes. Ultimately, the Titans’ composure made the difference, securing them a hard-earned win.

Earlier in the day, Royal Arcs and First Bank registered victories in their respective opening fixtures, laying down early markers as title contenders.

Match Day One Results:

Royal Arcs – Win

First Bank – Win

Titans - Win

Dolphins Win

The action-packed opener of the #ZBWBPL2025 Super 8 showcased the best of Nigerian women’s basketball resilience, firepower, and the promise of more excitement to come as the tournament progresses.

Africa Eyes Glory at World Athletics Championships Tokyo 2025

As the countdown begins to the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo (September 13–21, 2025), African nations are preparing to make their mark on the global stage. From the evergreen dominance in middle- and long-distance events to rising breakthroughs in sprints and field disciplines, the African contingent is aiming for one of its most successful outings yet.

Nigeria will be represented by a 15-member squad led by world champion Tobi Amusan in the 100m hurdles. She remains the nation’s best hope for a podium finish, Ese Brume, and shot putter Chukwuebuka Enekwechi.

Rising stars like Kanyinsola Ajayi, who recently dipped under the 10-second mark in the 100m, and Tima Godbless bring fresh hope for Nigerian sprints, signaling a new generation ready to challenge the world.

For Kenya, the mission is clear: replicate or surpass their historic dominance from Beijing 2015. With world icon Faith Kipyegon chasing a unique double in the 1500m and 5000m, Kenya is set to shine again in distance events. Beyond the track, the nation is working to build competitive relay squads, hoping to expand its medal base in sprint team events where Africa has traditionally lagged.

South Africa has named one of the largest African squads 49 athletes in total. The team includes several national record holders and strong relay lineups. All eyes will be on sprint leader Akani Simbine, who remains a constant threat in the men’s 100m, alongside young talents in hurdles and field events.

Ethiopia, though rocked by potential suspensions, remains a force in endurance. The women’s 5000m and 10,000m races are expected to feature thrilling battles between Ethiopian and Kenyan athletes, with the marathon also likely to be dominated by East African runners despite Tokyo’s hot and humid conditions.

The Athlete Refugee Team (ART) will include six African-born athletes, whose inspiring stories of resilience will bring a human face to the championships. Their participation is expected to draw global support and showcase Africa’s enduring athletic spirit.

Africa has never hosted the World Championships—Nairobi lost out in the bid for this edition. But African nations see Tokyo as another chance to demonstrate that the continent is not just a producer of distance greats, but a rising force across the athletics spectrum

Storylines to Watch;

Faith Kipyegon’s double attempt (1500m + 5000m).

Letsile Tebogo (Botswana), the Olympic 200m champion, aiming to prove Africa belongs among sprinting elites.

Nigerian and South African sprinters pushing into global finals.

Relays and field events testing Africa’s growing depth.

As the world turns to Tokyo, Africa carries not only tradition but also ambition. From Lagos to Nairobi, Addis Ababa to Johannesburg, millions will be watchinghoping this will be the year the continent writes a new chapter in athletics history.

Nigeria Grind Out 1–0 Victory Over Rwanda to Stay Alive in World Cup Race

The Super Eagles of Nigeria breathed a  fresh life into their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign with a narrow but vital 1–0 win over Rwanda at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Saturday.

It was a match that demanded patience and resilience, and Nigeria found both, with substitute Tolu Arokodare delivering the decisive goal in the 51st minute. The forward pounced on a loose ball inside the Rwandan penalty area and rifled home, sparking wild celebrations from the home supporters.

The opening 45 minutes which was Cagey had few clear chances as Rwanda stuck to a defensive game plan, frustrating the Nigerian attack. The Super Eagles struggled to break through the compact Rwandan lines, and matters were further complicated when star striker Victor Osimhen was forced off injured midway through the first half, replaced by Cyril Dessers.

The breakthrough came after the restart in the second half were Nigeria emerged with renewed urgency after the interval, pressing higher up the pitch. Just six minutes into the second half, their persistence paid off. The Wolves of England new signing Arokodare, who had only recently entered the fray, made the crucial difference, showing sharp instincts in the box to hand Nigeria the lead.

From that point, the Super Eagles focused on protecting their advantage. Rwanda pushed forward in search of an equalizer, but a disciplined Nigerian backline—anchored by Calvin Bassey—stood firm, ensuring the clean sheet.

The result lifts Nigeria to 10 points from seven matches, moving them back into contention in a fiercely contested Group C. Rwanda, meanwhile, remain on 8 points, and the defeat dents their own hopes of pushing for a World Cup ticket.

Though the performance was not free-flowing, Nigeria’s ability to grind out results under pressure could prove decisive as the qualification campaign enters its final stages.

Attention now turns to the Super Eagles’ remaining fixtures, where consistency will be key if they are to secure automatic qualification for the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Coach Éric Chelle will also be sweating on the fitness of Osimhen, whose injury could shape Nigeria’s attacking options in the matches to come.

For now, however, Nigeria can take heart from three valuable points and a much-needed boost of confidence in front of their fans.