According to sources, Nkechi, the Canadian based wife of Mike Ezuruonye is heavily pregnant and will be putting to bed any moment from now. It should be recalled that the handsome Nollywood actor wedded Nkechi few months back. Goodluck Mike.
Wednesday 26 January 2011
CAF Champions League 2011 .:. Match schedule
CAF Champions League 2011: Preliminary Round Draw
The players of TP Mazembe trudged off at the end of the World Club Cup Final as losers to Internationale of Italy. However, despite failing at the final hurdle they knew their place in African football history was secure. Two wins, one against Mexicans Pachuha and another against Brazilian giants Independiente catapulted the Congolese side from the relative obscurity of African club competition into the hearts and minds of football fans the world over.
Lubumbashi based Mazembe’s run to the final was greeted with acclaim across Africa, and more surprisingly perhaps, in the capital of DR Congo Kinshasha where many supporters donned the black and white colours of TP Mazembe during the course of the tournament. Surprising because TP Mazembe aren’t actually the current champions of DR Congo, that honour is held by Kinshasha’s very own AS Vita Club who narrowly defeated Mazembe to the title on goal difference back in November. And there’s certainly no love lost between the side as crowd violence marred their one-all draw back in September.
As champions of the DR Congo, AS Vita Club have qualified for the CAF Champions League 2011 and will enter the tournament at the Preliminary Round stage where they’ll face Zanzibar Ocean View, the current champions of Zanzibar, a country that despite competing in the East African international tournament the CECAFA Cup aren’t actually full FIFA members.
Luckily for Mazembe DR Congo is one of the twelve CAF nations permitted to enter two clubs into the CAF Champions League therefore they will get an opportunity to defend their continental crown for the second year running. It’s perhaps interesting to casual African club football observers that the likes of Ghana and South Africa are only eligible for one position in the Champions League, due to the relatively poor performances of their club sides in African club football.
First Leg: 28-30 Jan. Second Leg: 11-13 Feb
01 AS Forces Armées Nigeriennes (Niger) v J. C. A. Treichiville (Côte d’Ivoire)
02 Saint Michel de Ouenzé (Congo) v Enyimba FC (Nigeria)
03 Union Sportive de Bitam (Gabon) v Les Astres de Douala (Cameroon)
04 O. Real de Bangui (Centrafrique) v Moloudia C. d’Alger (Algeria)
05 Grupo Desportivo Interclube (Angola) v Township Rollers FC (Botswana)
06 East End Lions FC (Sierra Leone) v Djoliba (Mali)
07 ASC Les Jaraafs (Senegal) v Gambia Ports A. (Gambia)
08 ASPAC FC (Benin) v DVO. Mongomo (Equatorial Guinea)
09 Asec Mimosas (Côte d’Ivoire) v ASC SNIM –Cansando (Mauritania)
10 Motor Action F. C. (Zimbabwe) V Cnaps Sports (Madagascar)
11 Raja Club Athlétic (Morocco) v Tourbillon (Chad)
12 Unlinzi Stars Football (Kenya) v Zamalek (Egypt)
13 APR FC (Rwanda) v Club Africain (Tunisia)
14 Club Recreativo Caala (Angola) v Saint George (Ethiopia)
15 Elan Club de Mitsoudjé (Comores) v Simba Sports Club (Tanzania)
16 Mighty Barolle (Liberia) v Kano Pillars (Nigeria)
17 Widad de Casablanca (Morocco) v Aduana Stars FC (Ghana)
18 Fello Star de Labe (Guinea) v AS. Faso – Yennega (Burkina Faso)
19 Vital’O FC (Burundi) v Coton Sport (Cameroon)
20 Zanzibar Ocean View (Zanzibar) v AS V. Club (RD Congo)
21 Supersport (South Africa) v Matlama FC (Lesotho)
22 Young Buffaloes FC (Swaziland) v St. Michel United (Seychelles)
23 Zesco United (Zambia) v Liga Desportiva M. (Mozambique)
02 Saint Michel de Ouenzé (Congo) v Enyimba FC (Nigeria)
03 Union Sportive de Bitam (Gabon) v Les Astres de Douala (Cameroon)
04 O. Real de Bangui (Centrafrique) v Moloudia C. d’Alger (Algeria)
05 Grupo Desportivo Interclube (Angola) v Township Rollers FC (Botswana)
06 East End Lions FC (Sierra Leone) v Djoliba (Mali)
07 ASC Les Jaraafs (Senegal) v Gambia Ports A. (Gambia)
08 ASPAC FC (Benin) v DVO. Mongomo (Equatorial Guinea)
09 Asec Mimosas (Côte d’Ivoire) v ASC SNIM –Cansando (Mauritania)
10 Motor Action F. C. (Zimbabwe) V Cnaps Sports (Madagascar)
11 Raja Club Athlétic (Morocco) v Tourbillon (Chad)
12 Unlinzi Stars Football (Kenya) v Zamalek (Egypt)
13 APR FC (Rwanda) v Club Africain (Tunisia)
14 Club Recreativo Caala (Angola) v Saint George (Ethiopia)
15 Elan Club de Mitsoudjé (Comores) v Simba Sports Club (Tanzania)
16 Mighty Barolle (Liberia) v Kano Pillars (Nigeria)
17 Widad de Casablanca (Morocco) v Aduana Stars FC (Ghana)
18 Fello Star de Labe (Guinea) v AS. Faso – Yennega (Burkina Faso)
19 Vital’O FC (Burundi) v Coton Sport (Cameroon)
20 Zanzibar Ocean View (Zanzibar) v AS V. Club (RD Congo)
21 Supersport (South Africa) v Matlama FC (Lesotho)
22 Young Buffaloes FC (Swaziland) v St. Michel United (Seychelles)
23 Zesco United (Zambia) v Liga Desportiva M. (Mozambique)
The following clubs have byes to the next round: E.S.S. (Algeria), Al Ahly (Egypt), Ittihad (Libya), Stade Malien (Mali), TP Mazembe (RD Congo), Hilal (Sudan), Merrikh (Sudan), E.S.T. (Tunisia) and Dynamos (Zimbabwe).
TP Mazembe Kick Off 2011 CAF Champions League With Home Advantage
Both Mazembe and Esperance receive first-round byes…
By K.N.S Mensah
Dec 21, 2010 12:11:00 PM
Reigning African club champions TP Mazembe begin their quest to defend the title for a record third consecutive time against Tanzanian or Comorian opposition.
The runners-up at the 2010 Club World Cup were spared the first-round in a three-round qualifying draw for the 2011 competition that was released by CAF on Monday. The Congolese could either face Elan Club Mitsoudje from Comoros Islands or Simba Sports Club of Tanzania in the second round with four-time African champions Mazembe enjoying home advantage first.
The Crows could face Wydad Casablanca of Morocco or Kano Pillars of Nigeria if they progress to the third and final elimination round.
Tunisian giants Esperance Sportive de Tunis also received a first-round bye and would begin their campaign against ASPAC of Benin or Deportivo Mongomo of Equatorial Guinea. Al Ahly of Egypt, African champions a record six times, meet SuperSport United of South Africa or Matlama of Lesotho and Cairo neighbours Zamalek tackle Ulinzi Stars of Kenya.
The CAF Champions League kicks off the weekends of 28-30 January and 11-13 February with the second round during March and April.
The runners-up at the 2010 Club World Cup were spared the first-round in a three-round qualifying draw for the 2011 competition that was released by CAF on Monday. The Congolese could either face Elan Club Mitsoudje from Comoros Islands or Simba Sports Club of Tanzania in the second round with four-time African champions Mazembe enjoying home advantage first.
The Crows could face Wydad Casablanca of Morocco or Kano Pillars of Nigeria if they progress to the third and final elimination round.
Tunisian giants Esperance Sportive de Tunis also received a first-round bye and would begin their campaign against ASPAC of Benin or Deportivo Mongomo of Equatorial Guinea. Al Ahly of Egypt, African champions a record six times, meet SuperSport United of South Africa or Matlama of Lesotho and Cairo neighbours Zamalek tackle Ulinzi Stars of Kenya.
The CAF Champions League kicks off the weekends of 28-30 January and 11-13 February with the second round during March and April.
Klate sidelined for three months
Orlando Pirates midfielder Daine Klate will be out of action for at least three months due to injury, the club announced.
Klate, who is the current PSL footballer of the season, will need to undergo an operation after scan results revealed that he had dislocated his shoulder.“Klate dislocated his shoulder in the league match against SuperSport United (his former team) and until recently he had been playing with stabilisers. These stabilisers broke and he has to go for an operation which will keep him out of action for at least three months.
"This is very sad news for us, but it is best to have him going for this operation and have his shoulder healed properly,” said the team's physiotherapist John Williams.
Klate on the other hand expressed his disappointment about the setback but promised to bounce back.
“This is something I have to go through which is quite unfortunate, but I think we have enough depth in the team to carry on fighting for the league title. Maybe this s a blessing for the team – the last time I went for an operation while at SuperSport I won the league and was the player of the season; maybe the same will happen to me here at Orlando Pirates...you never know," Klate said with a smile.
"The game is played with eleven players, if ‘Klate’ is not in the team, there are other guys who can come in and contribute to the team.
Klate, who is the current PSL footballer of the season, will need to undergo an operation after scan results revealed that he had dislocated his shoulder.“Klate dislocated his shoulder in the league match against SuperSport United (his former team) and until recently he had been playing with stabilisers. These stabilisers broke and he has to go for an operation which will keep him out of action for at least three months.
"This is very sad news for us, but it is best to have him going for this operation and have his shoulder healed properly,” said the team's physiotherapist John Williams.
Klate on the other hand expressed his disappointment about the setback but promised to bounce back.
“This is something I have to go through which is quite unfortunate, but I think we have enough depth in the team to carry on fighting for the league title. Maybe this s a blessing for the team – the last time I went for an operation while at SuperSport I won the league and was the player of the season; maybe the same will happen to me here at Orlando Pirates...you never know," Klate said with a smile.
"The game is played with eleven players, if ‘Klate’ is not in the team, there are other guys who can come in and contribute to the team.
Sofapaka train in Luanda
Former Kenya Premier League champions Sofapaka held their first training session in Luanda on Wednesday morning as they prepare for their first leg Confederations Cup clash against AS Aviacao.
General manager Jimmy Ambajo told SuperSport.com that the squad of 19 players and officials which had departed Nairobi on Tuesday morning had arrived safely in the Angolan capital but opted to rest for after the four hour flight.
“The players were too tired after the trip but this morning (Wednesday), we held a rigorous training session and we are set to hold another one in the evening,” He said.
“We have been received well and are satisfied with the facilities accorded to us especially the hotel and though the pitch is way out town, we are ok and we are ready for the match. The team is in high spirits and looking forward to facing Aviacao.”
Ambajo confirmed that the match will take place on Sunday from 6pm Kenyan time.
The return leg will be played in Nairobi on February 12.
Sofapaka qualified for the tournament after beating West Kenya in the FKL cup final last October.
The squad traveled without skipper James Situma who is undergoing treatment for a knee injury, goalkeeper Wilson Oburu and defender Idrissa Rajab.
Squad:
Zachariah Onyango, Abdulatif Omar, Anthony Kimani, Bob Mugalia, Kayombo Dodo, Edgar Ochieng, Elli Asieche Sekah, George Opiyo, George Owino, Heritier Luvualu Ndombele, Humphrey Mieno, James Orundu, John Barasa, John Njoroge, John Onami, Mudde Musa, Patrick Kagogo, Thomas Wanyama and Titus Mulama.
General manager Jimmy Ambajo told SuperSport.com that the squad of 19 players and officials which had departed Nairobi on Tuesday morning had arrived safely in the Angolan capital but opted to rest for after the four hour flight.
“The players were too tired after the trip but this morning (Wednesday), we held a rigorous training session and we are set to hold another one in the evening,” He said.
“We have been received well and are satisfied with the facilities accorded to us especially the hotel and though the pitch is way out town, we are ok and we are ready for the match. The team is in high spirits and looking forward to facing Aviacao.”
Ambajo confirmed that the match will take place on Sunday from 6pm Kenyan time.
The return leg will be played in Nairobi on February 12.
Sofapaka qualified for the tournament after beating West Kenya in the FKL cup final last October.
The squad traveled without skipper James Situma who is undergoing treatment for a knee injury, goalkeeper Wilson Oburu and defender Idrissa Rajab.
Squad:
Zachariah Onyango, Abdulatif Omar, Anthony Kimani, Bob Mugalia, Kayombo Dodo, Edgar Ochieng, Elli Asieche Sekah, George Opiyo, George Owino, Heritier Luvualu Ndombele, Humphrey Mieno, James Orundu, John Barasa, John Njoroge, John Onami, Mudde Musa, Patrick Kagogo, Thomas Wanyama and Titus Mulama.
Crown unfair to me - Salami
Sacked head coach of Crown Football Club, Ganiyu Salami, has declared that the treatment meted out to him by his former employers in the wake of the Nigeria Premier League (NPL) newcomers’ string of poor results was uncalled for.
Salami, who joined Crown before the start of the season, said he is bitter for being fingered for the woes of the side in their first attempt in the topflight.The former Nigerian Under17 head coach believes that the blame for the failure of Crown to impress so far in the Premier League should have been collectively shared.
Salami also claimed that when he joined the club, the signing of the playing personnel had been completed, as he had no input in the recruitment of players.
“I think they have been unfair to me because when I came to the club they had already employed players for the season. So it is so unfair to have blamed me for the situation of the team because it is a collective effort,” he said.
Asked if he was put in the picture over the transfer of the club’s best midfielder, Harrison Egbune, to Sunshine Stars, Salami answered: “Nobody told me anything about the transfer of Harrison to Sunshine Stars.”
Salami was sacked last Sunday following Crown’s 0 – 2 loss to Bukola Babes after his side completed a five-game run without a point.
Crown’s sack of Salami is the third time the NPL newcomers will be firing their employees in their coaching personnel.
Godfrey Esu was sacked before the start of the season while Niyi Akande was also shown the exit door.
Salami, who joined Crown before the start of the season, said he is bitter for being fingered for the woes of the side in their first attempt in the topflight.The former Nigerian Under17 head coach believes that the blame for the failure of Crown to impress so far in the Premier League should have been collectively shared.
Salami also claimed that when he joined the club, the signing of the playing personnel had been completed, as he had no input in the recruitment of players.
“I think they have been unfair to me because when I came to the club they had already employed players for the season. So it is so unfair to have blamed me for the situation of the team because it is a collective effort,” he said.
Asked if he was put in the picture over the transfer of the club’s best midfielder, Harrison Egbune, to Sunshine Stars, Salami answered: “Nobody told me anything about the transfer of Harrison to Sunshine Stars.”
Salami was sacked last Sunday following Crown’s 0 – 2 loss to Bukola Babes after his side completed a five-game run without a point.
Crown’s sack of Salami is the third time the NPL newcomers will be firing their employees in their coaching personnel.
Godfrey Esu was sacked before the start of the season while Niyi Akande was also shown the exit door.
Nigeria Preview for Week 14
Two games have been called off this weekend due to the participation of Enyimba and Kano Pillars in the playoffs of the 2011 CAF Champions League. But eight games will be played including Dolphins going to Ocean Boys with the longest winning streak this term.
Saturday, January 29, 2011Plateau United v Kaduna United
This will be the first topflight clash between both sides and Plateau United go into this game in bottom place of the 20-team log. Ndubuisi Nduka’s men have won just once in their last five games compared to Kaduna United’s three wins, one draw in last five. Maurice Cooreman’s side will fancy taking points off Plateau in this tie in Enugu since they are the only team to have scored in every game this term.
Prediction: 1-2
Form Guide in Last Five Games
Plateau United LDLLW
Kaduna United WDWWL
Bukola Babes v Heartland
Festus Allen’s Bukola Babes have stunned everyone with the way they have picked points in the past two weeks against Kwara United at home and then Crown Football Club on the road. The Babes occupy a top four position and could climb into top three if they beat a stuttering Heartland side. But a tough game awaits Allen and his men in Bauchi in this first Premier League meeting between both sides.
Prediction: 1-0
Form Guide in Last Five Games
Bukola Babes WWWDW
Heartland WLLDL
Sharks v Niger Tornadoes
Tornadoes have picked just two points from six away games and against the Blue Angels this Saturday their chance of getting point(s) surely looks remote. Sharks have failed to win just once in five homes but will be up for all points in this tie. Tornadoes are yet to beat Sharks in Port Harcourt in seven years and that may not change this time.
Prediction: 2-0
Form Guide in Last Five Games
Sharks DDLWW
Niger Tornadoes DDLDD
Recent head-to-head
February 20, 2010: Niger Tornadoes 2 – 1 Sharks
February 13, 2010: Sharks 2 – 0 Niger Tornadoes
March 28, 2009: Niger Tornadoes 2 – 1 Sharks
November 15, 2008: Sharks 1 – 0 Niger Tornadoes
February 23, 2008: Niger Tornadoes 3 – 0 Sharks
October 24, 2007: Sharks 4 – 1 Niger Tornadoes
July 30, 2006: Niger Tornadoes 2 – 1 Sharks
May 20, 2006: Sharks 0 – 0 Niger Tornadoes
November 20, 2005: Niger Tornadoes 3 – 0 Sharks
June 19, 2005: Sharks 1 – 0 Niger Tornadoes
July 20, 2003: Sharks 2 – 0 Niger Tornadoes
March 1, 2003: Niger Tornadoes 3 – 0 Sharks
Sunday, January 30, 2011
3SC v Crown FC
This is one of the four derbies in the Premier League this term. Crown are living on the edge after sacking their coach, Ganiyu Salami, at the weekend and losing two key players in Harrison Egbune and Asuquo Phillip to title-chasing Sunshine Stars. Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) should pick all points in this game in the face of Crown having the worst form guide in the last five games.
Prediction: 2-0
Form Guide in Last Five Games
3SC LDWWL
Crown LLLLL
Zamfara United v Juth FC
In four meetings between the two sides in the topflight over two years, The Healers have won just once against Zamfara United. Surprisingly, Juth have picked three draws on the road from four games but have capitulated at home by losing two games. Zamfara lost just once at home to Kaduna United but they should claim the maximum points in this tie.
Prediction: 2-0
Form Guide in Last Five Games
Zamfara United LWLLD
Juth FC DWLLD
Recent head-to head
March 22, 2009: Juth FC 2 – 0 Zamfara United
November 9, 2008: Zamfara United 1 – 0 Juth FC
April 27, 2008: Zamfara United 2 – 0 Juth FC
January 9, 2008: Juth FC 0 – 0 Zamfara United
Sunshine Stars v Lobi Stars
On paper, Premier League bookmakers will hand this over to Sunshine Stars before a ball is kicked. But in eight past meetings since 2003, Lobi Stars have won five against Sunshine’s two with the other game ending in draw. In 2003, Lobi Stars did the double over Sunshine Stars when they were relegated to the lower division. But under Gbenga Ogunbote this time, Sunshine Stars will be a different proposition to Lobi.
Prediction: 2 -0
Form Guide in Last Five Games
Sunshine Stars DWWLW
Lobi Stars WLDWL
Recent head-to head
March 10, 2010: Lobi Stars 2 – 0 Sunshine Stars
October 4, 2009: Sunshine Stars 0 – 0 Lobi Stars
March 8, 2009: Lobi Stars 3 – 0 Sunshine Stars
October 26, 2008: Sunshine Stars 1 – 0 Lobi Stars
March 16, 2008: Lobi Stars 2 – 1 Sunshine Stars
November 10, 2007: Sunshine Stars 1 – 0 Lobi Stars
August 3, 2003: Sunshine Stars 0 – 1 Lobi Stars
March 9, 2003: Lobi Stars 3 – 0 Sunshine Stars
Ocean Boys v Dolphins
It has been just two clashes between the two former champions. In this same game last season, it was goals from Ayo Saka and George Amakiri that ensured Ocean Boys won two-nil at the Samson Siasia Stadium in Yenagoa. Ocean Boys can end Dolphins’ impressive five-game winning streak on Sunday and temporarily move out of the relegation zone.
Prediction: 1-0
Form Guide in Last Five Games
Ocean Boys LWLLW
Dolphins WWWWW
Recent head-to head
March 1, 2010: Ocean Boys 2 – 0 Dolphins
September 20, 2009: Dolphins 1 – 1 Ocean Boys
Enugu Rangers v Warri Wolves
This is definitely the game of the week between third-placed Wolves and Rangers in fifth. Warri Wolves have beaten the Flying Antelopes just once in eight past meetings since 2004. Last season both teams played 1-1 over two legs, but this game will be a massive test for Rangers’ home invincibility that has seen them win all six home games and scored 17 goals – an average of 2.8 goals per game. That surely will give Paul Aigbogun concern ahead of this Super Sunday clash.
Prediction: 2-1
Form Guide in Last Five Games
Enugu Rangers DWLWL
Warri Wolves WDLWW
Recent head-to head
April 11, 2010: Warri Wolves 1 – 1 Enugu Rangers
November 29, 2009: Enugu Rangers 1 – 1 Warri Wolves
May 24, 2009: Enugu Rangers 3 – 0 Warri Wolves
November 30, 2008: Warri Wolves 2 – 0 Enugu Rangers
August 27, 2005: NPA (Warri Wolves) 0 – 1 Enugu Rangers
March 23, 2005: Enugu Rangers 1 – 0 NPA (now Warri Wolves)
June 20, 2004: Enugu Rangers 2 – 0 NPA (now Warri Wolves)
March 10, 2004: NPA (now Warri Wolves) 0 – 0 Enugu Rangers
Saturday, January 29, 2011Plateau United v Kaduna United
This will be the first topflight clash between both sides and Plateau United go into this game in bottom place of the 20-team log. Ndubuisi Nduka’s men have won just once in their last five games compared to Kaduna United’s three wins, one draw in last five. Maurice Cooreman’s side will fancy taking points off Plateau in this tie in Enugu since they are the only team to have scored in every game this term.
Prediction: 1-2
Form Guide in Last Five Games
Plateau United LDLLW
Kaduna United WDWWL
Bukola Babes v Heartland
Festus Allen’s Bukola Babes have stunned everyone with the way they have picked points in the past two weeks against Kwara United at home and then Crown Football Club on the road. The Babes occupy a top four position and could climb into top three if they beat a stuttering Heartland side. But a tough game awaits Allen and his men in Bauchi in this first Premier League meeting between both sides.
Prediction: 1-0
Form Guide in Last Five Games
Bukola Babes WWWDW
Heartland WLLDL
Sharks v Niger Tornadoes
Tornadoes have picked just two points from six away games and against the Blue Angels this Saturday their chance of getting point(s) surely looks remote. Sharks have failed to win just once in five homes but will be up for all points in this tie. Tornadoes are yet to beat Sharks in Port Harcourt in seven years and that may not change this time.
Prediction: 2-0
Form Guide in Last Five Games
Sharks DDLWW
Niger Tornadoes DDLDD
Recent head-to-head
February 20, 2010: Niger Tornadoes 2 – 1 Sharks
February 13, 2010: Sharks 2 – 0 Niger Tornadoes
March 28, 2009: Niger Tornadoes 2 – 1 Sharks
November 15, 2008: Sharks 1 – 0 Niger Tornadoes
February 23, 2008: Niger Tornadoes 3 – 0 Sharks
October 24, 2007: Sharks 4 – 1 Niger Tornadoes
July 30, 2006: Niger Tornadoes 2 – 1 Sharks
May 20, 2006: Sharks 0 – 0 Niger Tornadoes
November 20, 2005: Niger Tornadoes 3 – 0 Sharks
June 19, 2005: Sharks 1 – 0 Niger Tornadoes
July 20, 2003: Sharks 2 – 0 Niger Tornadoes
March 1, 2003: Niger Tornadoes 3 – 0 Sharks
Sunday, January 30, 2011
3SC v Crown FC
This is one of the four derbies in the Premier League this term. Crown are living on the edge after sacking their coach, Ganiyu Salami, at the weekend and losing two key players in Harrison Egbune and Asuquo Phillip to title-chasing Sunshine Stars. Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) should pick all points in this game in the face of Crown having the worst form guide in the last five games.
Prediction: 2-0
Form Guide in Last Five Games
3SC LDWWL
Crown LLLLL
Zamfara United v Juth FC
In four meetings between the two sides in the topflight over two years, The Healers have won just once against Zamfara United. Surprisingly, Juth have picked three draws on the road from four games but have capitulated at home by losing two games. Zamfara lost just once at home to Kaduna United but they should claim the maximum points in this tie.
Prediction: 2-0
Form Guide in Last Five Games
Zamfara United LWLLD
Juth FC DWLLD
Recent head-to head
March 22, 2009: Juth FC 2 – 0 Zamfara United
November 9, 2008: Zamfara United 1 – 0 Juth FC
April 27, 2008: Zamfara United 2 – 0 Juth FC
January 9, 2008: Juth FC 0 – 0 Zamfara United
Sunshine Stars v Lobi Stars
On paper, Premier League bookmakers will hand this over to Sunshine Stars before a ball is kicked. But in eight past meetings since 2003, Lobi Stars have won five against Sunshine’s two with the other game ending in draw. In 2003, Lobi Stars did the double over Sunshine Stars when they were relegated to the lower division. But under Gbenga Ogunbote this time, Sunshine Stars will be a different proposition to Lobi.
Prediction: 2 -0
Form Guide in Last Five Games
Sunshine Stars DWWLW
Lobi Stars WLDWL
Recent head-to head
March 10, 2010: Lobi Stars 2 – 0 Sunshine Stars
October 4, 2009: Sunshine Stars 0 – 0 Lobi Stars
March 8, 2009: Lobi Stars 3 – 0 Sunshine Stars
October 26, 2008: Sunshine Stars 1 – 0 Lobi Stars
March 16, 2008: Lobi Stars 2 – 1 Sunshine Stars
November 10, 2007: Sunshine Stars 1 – 0 Lobi Stars
August 3, 2003: Sunshine Stars 0 – 1 Lobi Stars
March 9, 2003: Lobi Stars 3 – 0 Sunshine Stars
Ocean Boys v Dolphins
It has been just two clashes between the two former champions. In this same game last season, it was goals from Ayo Saka and George Amakiri that ensured Ocean Boys won two-nil at the Samson Siasia Stadium in Yenagoa. Ocean Boys can end Dolphins’ impressive five-game winning streak on Sunday and temporarily move out of the relegation zone.
Prediction: 1-0
Form Guide in Last Five Games
Ocean Boys LWLLW
Dolphins WWWWW
Recent head-to head
March 1, 2010: Ocean Boys 2 – 0 Dolphins
September 20, 2009: Dolphins 1 – 1 Ocean Boys
Enugu Rangers v Warri Wolves
This is definitely the game of the week between third-placed Wolves and Rangers in fifth. Warri Wolves have beaten the Flying Antelopes just once in eight past meetings since 2004. Last season both teams played 1-1 over two legs, but this game will be a massive test for Rangers’ home invincibility that has seen them win all six home games and scored 17 goals – an average of 2.8 goals per game. That surely will give Paul Aigbogun concern ahead of this Super Sunday clash.
Prediction: 2-1
Form Guide in Last Five Games
Enugu Rangers DWLWL
Warri Wolves WDLWW
Recent head-to head
April 11, 2010: Warri Wolves 1 – 1 Enugu Rangers
November 29, 2009: Enugu Rangers 1 – 1 Warri Wolves
May 24, 2009: Enugu Rangers 3 – 0 Warri Wolves
November 30, 2008: Warri Wolves 2 – 0 Enugu Rangers
August 27, 2005: NPA (Warri Wolves) 0 – 1 Enugu Rangers
March 23, 2005: Enugu Rangers 1 – 0 NPA (now Warri Wolves)
June 20, 2004: Enugu Rangers 2 – 0 NPA (now Warri Wolves)
March 10, 2004: NPA (now Warri Wolves) 0 – 0 Enugu Rangers
Chiefs eye top spot against Celtic
Kaizer Chiefs captain Jimmy Tau is still looking forward to leading the Amakhosi into battle against Bloemfontein Celtic at the Seisa Ramabodu Stadium on Wednesday evening, kick-off at 19h30.
The match was scheduled for Sunday afternoon, but due to heavy rain and a waterlogged pitch the match was postponed and will be played on Wednesday nightAmakhosi now, instead of going into this match in second place, will be going into the match in fourth place, but with a real chance of finishing the evening on top of the table.
Results on the weekend saw Mamelodi Sundowns loose to SuperSport United and Orlando Pirates beating BidVest Wits 3-2. Those results mean Pirates presently top the Absa Premiership, but should Chiefs win that honour will fall on their shoulders.
Prior to the weekend’s matches, though, Celtic inadvertently did the Soweto giants a favour by holding the Brazilians to a draw midweek, with Chiefs taking full advantage as they accounted for AmaZulu by a 3-1 score-line.
The result put the defeat by Ajax into somewhat more distant memory and Chiefs can now try and build some momentum as the season moves into round two and the race for the title starts to slowly heat up.
However, in Celtic, Chiefs face a side in solid form – Phunya Sele Sele are in sixth position and remain unbeaten at home this season.
Under coach Clinton Larsen, Celtic have become a well organised side whose good form means that they remain an outside bet to enter the title race equation themselves.
Tau accepts the Gauteng side have a challenge on their hands and is excited that they could possibly finish on top of the table if the result goes their way.
“It’s not going to be easy at all. While we are boosted by our midweek win, we must realise that each game is a new chapter, and we have to start again, we can’t rest on past results. Also the fact that we can finish on top of the log is added incentive for us.
“Celtic’s record at home speaks for itself, though, and we are going to have to produce a special performance.
“We know what to expect when playing in Bloemfontein, the atmosphere will be electric and it’s up to us to rise to the challenge and use the vibe at the ground as inspiration. The weather conditions and the state of the pitch will also prove influential,” said the Amakhosi right back.
Chiefs will be without midfielder Reneilwe Letsholonyane, who picked up a third yellow card against AmaZulu and is thus suspended.
Celtic meanwhile have their own aspirations and are not about to be overawed by the occasion.
Coach Clinton Larsen says that only a victory would satisfy, “I wouldn’t be happy with two points from six. At the beginning of the week we said we wanted at least four, so that means we are going all out for a win. It’s a home game for us, so we need to aim for maximum points.”
Larsen says that it won’t be advisable to single out certain on-form Chiefs players, such as Kaizer Motaung Jr and Knowledge Musona, for special attention.
“It’s not just those two players – Chiefs are a quality side all round, even their bench players are dangerous.
“So we need to watch all 11 players. But I feel that some of my players are also hitting top form, so it’s going to be a great game for the supporters.”
Celtic will be without Clifford Mulenga, who limped off against Sundowns, but can welcome a fit-again Nathan Paulse back into the fray.
Last season Celtic had the upper-hand over Chiefs, winning 1-0 at home and drawing 1-1 away.
But this time round they have already lost twice – in the league and in the MTN8.
The match was scheduled for Sunday afternoon, but due to heavy rain and a waterlogged pitch the match was postponed and will be played on Wednesday nightAmakhosi now, instead of going into this match in second place, will be going into the match in fourth place, but with a real chance of finishing the evening on top of the table.
Results on the weekend saw Mamelodi Sundowns loose to SuperSport United and Orlando Pirates beating BidVest Wits 3-2. Those results mean Pirates presently top the Absa Premiership, but should Chiefs win that honour will fall on their shoulders.
Prior to the weekend’s matches, though, Celtic inadvertently did the Soweto giants a favour by holding the Brazilians to a draw midweek, with Chiefs taking full advantage as they accounted for AmaZulu by a 3-1 score-line.
The result put the defeat by Ajax into somewhat more distant memory and Chiefs can now try and build some momentum as the season moves into round two and the race for the title starts to slowly heat up.
However, in Celtic, Chiefs face a side in solid form – Phunya Sele Sele are in sixth position and remain unbeaten at home this season.
Under coach Clinton Larsen, Celtic have become a well organised side whose good form means that they remain an outside bet to enter the title race equation themselves.
Tau accepts the Gauteng side have a challenge on their hands and is excited that they could possibly finish on top of the table if the result goes their way.
“It’s not going to be easy at all. While we are boosted by our midweek win, we must realise that each game is a new chapter, and we have to start again, we can’t rest on past results. Also the fact that we can finish on top of the log is added incentive for us.
“Celtic’s record at home speaks for itself, though, and we are going to have to produce a special performance.
“We know what to expect when playing in Bloemfontein, the atmosphere will be electric and it’s up to us to rise to the challenge and use the vibe at the ground as inspiration. The weather conditions and the state of the pitch will also prove influential,” said the Amakhosi right back.
Chiefs will be without midfielder Reneilwe Letsholonyane, who picked up a third yellow card against AmaZulu and is thus suspended.
Celtic meanwhile have their own aspirations and are not about to be overawed by the occasion.
Coach Clinton Larsen says that only a victory would satisfy, “I wouldn’t be happy with two points from six. At the beginning of the week we said we wanted at least four, so that means we are going all out for a win. It’s a home game for us, so we need to aim for maximum points.”
Larsen says that it won’t be advisable to single out certain on-form Chiefs players, such as Kaizer Motaung Jr and Knowledge Musona, for special attention.
“It’s not just those two players – Chiefs are a quality side all round, even their bench players are dangerous.
“So we need to watch all 11 players. But I feel that some of my players are also hitting top form, so it’s going to be a great game for the supporters.”
Celtic will be without Clifford Mulenga, who limped off against Sundowns, but can welcome a fit-again Nathan Paulse back into the fray.
Last season Celtic had the upper-hand over Chiefs, winning 1-0 at home and drawing 1-1 away.
But this time round they have already lost twice – in the league and in the MTN8.
SuperSport rely on youth for CL tie
SuperSport United coach Gavin Hunt says he will blood a few budding youngsters when they host their Lesotho counterparts, Matlama, in an African Champions League, first round, first leg tie in Polokwane on Sunday.
Hunt said he would give each of his young goalkeepers, Sherwyn Naicker and Ronwyn Williams, a half against Matlama.
Teenage defender Grant Kekana, only 18, also gets his chance, along with South African Under-23 striker Thulani Ngcepe.
The promising Ngcepe, 20, will get a run alongside Kermit Erasmus who scored the only goal in SuperSport's 1-0 PSL win over title chasing Mamelodi Sundowns last weekend.
Erasmus, also 20, has been earmarked as a future Bafana star and is in national coach Pitso Mosimane's plans. However, he needs to score more goals at club level before he can hold down a regular place in the Bafana team.
Hunt was not underestimating the Lesotho champions.
"That would be the last thing I would do. I have learnt that no team can be taken for granted in the Champions League," he said.
"But I believe this is an opportunity to try out some younger players as I am rebuilding the side.
"This gives me the chance to see what depth we have."
United are starting to pick up the pieces in their domestic league campaign, winning their last two games after a bad slump due to injuries and transfers of key players.
Their slump has seen them concede the title, which they have won the last three years running, by the halfway mark of the season.
United's last two Champions League campaigns ended before the quarterfinal stage, and while he acknowledged their was a long road ahead, Hunt said the win over Pretoria neighbours Sundowns had boosted the players' confidence.
"Beating Sundowns was brilliant for our morale going into the game against Matlama," said Hunt.
"We still have a long road ahead and there is a lot of rebuilding to do but now the signs are a lot more positive."
Hunt said it was vital for his side to defeat Matlama at home this weekend.
"I do not want to have to do all the work away from home when we travel to Lesotho for the second leg (two weeks later)," he said.
A daunting and exciting second round tie awaits the SA champions if they get past the unknown Lesotho side.
United would face the African Club of the Century in the form of Egyptian giants Al Ahly who have won the Champions League more times than any other side.
"It would be a brilliant experience for my players and the club to play in a packed stadium in Cairo against a side rated as the best ever in Africa," said Hunt.
"I would relish that challenge even with a depleted side. I believe the experience would be invaluable for the players.
"A tie against Al Ahly is a huge incentive to beat Matlama."
BidVest Wits are en route to the island of Reunion where they meet US St Marienne in their African Confederations Cup first round, first leg clash on Sunday.
Hunt said he would give each of his young goalkeepers, Sherwyn Naicker and Ronwyn Williams, a half against Matlama.
Teenage defender Grant Kekana, only 18, also gets his chance, along with South African Under-23 striker Thulani Ngcepe.
The promising Ngcepe, 20, will get a run alongside Kermit Erasmus who scored the only goal in SuperSport's 1-0 PSL win over title chasing Mamelodi Sundowns last weekend.
Erasmus, also 20, has been earmarked as a future Bafana star and is in national coach Pitso Mosimane's plans. However, he needs to score more goals at club level before he can hold down a regular place in the Bafana team.
Hunt was not underestimating the Lesotho champions.
"That would be the last thing I would do. I have learnt that no team can be taken for granted in the Champions League," he said.
"But I believe this is an opportunity to try out some younger players as I am rebuilding the side.
"This gives me the chance to see what depth we have."
United are starting to pick up the pieces in their domestic league campaign, winning their last two games after a bad slump due to injuries and transfers of key players.
Their slump has seen them concede the title, which they have won the last three years running, by the halfway mark of the season.
United's last two Champions League campaigns ended before the quarterfinal stage, and while he acknowledged their was a long road ahead, Hunt said the win over Pretoria neighbours Sundowns had boosted the players' confidence.
"Beating Sundowns was brilliant for our morale going into the game against Matlama," said Hunt.
"We still have a long road ahead and there is a lot of rebuilding to do but now the signs are a lot more positive."
Hunt said it was vital for his side to defeat Matlama at home this weekend.
"I do not want to have to do all the work away from home when we travel to Lesotho for the second leg (two weeks later)," he said.
A daunting and exciting second round tie awaits the SA champions if they get past the unknown Lesotho side.
United would face the African Club of the Century in the form of Egyptian giants Al Ahly who have won the Champions League more times than any other side.
"It would be a brilliant experience for my players and the club to play in a packed stadium in Cairo against a side rated as the best ever in Africa," said Hunt.
"I would relish that challenge even with a depleted side. I believe the experience would be invaluable for the players.
"A tie against Al Ahly is a huge incentive to beat Matlama."
BidVest Wits are en route to the island of Reunion where they meet US St Marienne in their African Confederations Cup first round, first leg clash on Sunday.
NPL to decide on league’s sponsor
The executive board of the Nigeria Premier League (NPL) will meet on Wednesday in Abuja to deliberate and decide on the title sponsorship for the Premier League.
Following a meeting on Tuesday, the board resolved to call the chairmen and club owners of the Premier League to convene an emergency congress to deliberate and decide on the controversial issue in Abuja on Wednesday.Meanwhile, the Nigeria Premier League (NPL) has rescheduled week 14 matches earlier slated to hold on Wednesday 26th January, 2011 in the respective centers across the country.
The matches have now been rescheduled to hold on Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th January 2011.
Acting executive secretary of the NPL, Tunji Babalola said games involving champions, Enyimba and Kano Pillars have been postponed.
“The teams will be representing Nigeria in the Caf Champions’ League so we have put off their games till further notice.
We also wish them the best as they fly Nigeria’s flag in Congo and Liberia, respectively,” Babalola told SuperSport.com.
Following a meeting on Tuesday, the board resolved to call the chairmen and club owners of the Premier League to convene an emergency congress to deliberate and decide on the controversial issue in Abuja on Wednesday.Meanwhile, the Nigeria Premier League (NPL) has rescheduled week 14 matches earlier slated to hold on Wednesday 26th January, 2011 in the respective centers across the country.
The matches have now been rescheduled to hold on Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th January 2011.
Acting executive secretary of the NPL, Tunji Babalola said games involving champions, Enyimba and Kano Pillars have been postponed.
“The teams will be representing Nigeria in the Caf Champions’ League so we have put off their games till further notice.
We also wish them the best as they fly Nigeria’s flag in Congo and Liberia, respectively,” Babalola told SuperSport.com.
Enyimba depart for Congo
Nigerian champions Enyimba will depart the country for Congo ahead of this weekend’s Caf Champions League cracker against Congolese side, Saint Michel du Ouenze.
Enyimba will leave with a 50 man contingent that will include 18 players and members of the team’s technical staff on Wednesday.Right back, Samuel Tswanya failed to recover from a knock he picked up in the Nigeria Premier League (NPL) game against Warri Wolves on January 16 and thus was not included in Okey Emordi’s 18 man squad.
Chairman of the club, Felix Anyansi Agwu expects a tough game in Congo.
“We know they are the defending champions of their domestic competition so that means they are a solid side,” Anyansi Agwu told SuperSport.com.
“Whenever teams play against us domestically or on the continent, they tend to raise their game because of the name, Enyimba.
We have achieved so much and teams go the extra mile when they play against us.
I want to assure all Nigerians that as always, we will do our best and make them happy in the end,” he said.
Founded in 1976, Enyimba rose to prominence in the 2000s and is considered the most successful Nigerian football club as they won two African Champions League titles, six Nigerian championships and two Federation Cups since 2001.
The Peoples’ Elephants sit in 13th place in the
2010/2011 NPL standings with 16 points from 12 matches.
Enyimba will leave with a 50 man contingent that will include 18 players and members of the team’s technical staff on Wednesday.Right back, Samuel Tswanya failed to recover from a knock he picked up in the Nigeria Premier League (NPL) game against Warri Wolves on January 16 and thus was not included in Okey Emordi’s 18 man squad.
Chairman of the club, Felix Anyansi Agwu expects a tough game in Congo.
“We know they are the defending champions of their domestic competition so that means they are a solid side,” Anyansi Agwu told SuperSport.com.
“Whenever teams play against us domestically or on the continent, they tend to raise their game because of the name, Enyimba.
We have achieved so much and teams go the extra mile when they play against us.
I want to assure all Nigerians that as always, we will do our best and make them happy in the end,” he said.
Founded in 1976, Enyimba rose to prominence in the 2000s and is considered the most successful Nigerian football club as they won two African Champions League titles, six Nigerian championships and two Federation Cups since 2001.
The Peoples’ Elephants sit in 13th place in the
2010/2011 NPL standings with 16 points from 12 matches.Zamalek arrive in Nairobi
Egyptian giants Zamalek arrived in Nairobi early on Wednesday ahead of Saturday's African Champions League first leg clash against Ulinzi Stars.
The contingent of 36 touched down at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport on Wednesday include players and club officials ahead of the crucial Saturday match against Kenyan Premier League champions Ulinzi starsin the African Champions League first leg tie to be played at the Nyayo Stadium.
Immediately on arrival the Zamalek contigent was transferred to Crown Plaza hotel based in Nairobi Upper Hill.
The Egyptians will hold their first training session at City Stadium from 4pm before moving to the Nyayo Stadium on Friday to have a feel of the ground.
Match officials for the game will arrive on Friday and have been booked at Jacaranda hotel in Westlands
The contingent of 36 touched down at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport on Wednesday include players and club officials ahead of the crucial Saturday match against Kenyan Premier League champions Ulinzi starsin the African Champions League first leg tie to be played at the Nyayo Stadium.
Immediately on arrival the Zamalek contigent was transferred to Crown Plaza hotel based in Nairobi Upper Hill.
The Egyptians will hold their first training session at City Stadium from 4pm before moving to the Nyayo Stadium on Friday to have a feel of the ground.
Match officials for the game will arrive on Friday and have been booked at Jacaranda hotel in Westlands
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