UPDATED: Ekong Dropped As Osimhen, Lookman Lead Nigeria’s Attack Vs Rwanda Captain William Troost-Ekong has been benched as Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman spearhead Nigeria’s attack in a crucial 2026 World Cup qualifier against Rwanda at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo. Coach Eric Chelle handed a start to 20-year-old Benjamin Frederick, who will partner Calvin Bassey in central defence. Wilfred Ndidi takes the armband, with Alex Iwobi and Frank Onyeka completing the midfield trio. Stanley Nwabali keeps his spot in goal, while Moses Simon joins Osimhen and Lookman upfront. Nigeria, with just seven points from six matches, must win to keep alive their slim qualification hopes. Nigeria’s Starting XI vs Rwanda: Nwabali; Ola Aina, Bassey, Frederick, Onyemaechi; Ndidi (C), Iwobi, Onyeka; Simon, Lookman, Osimhen. #SuperEagles #WorldCupQualifiers #NGARWA

It’s Disheartening,’ Taribo West Slams Neglect Of Ex-Internationals At Rufai’s Burial Former Super Eagles defender Taribo West has decried the treatment of late goalkeeper Peter Rufai’s family, accusing football authorities of neglecting ex-internationals. Speaking at Rufai’s service of songs in Lagos, West lamented that both the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and Lagos FA failed to support the family, forcing them to solicit funds. The visibly emotional ex-AC Milan star said the pattern of abandonment seen with past legends like Rashidi Yekini, Stephen Keshi, and Thompson Oliha shows why he would not advise his son to play for Nigeria. Rufai, Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper at the 1994 World Cup and AFCON-winning squad, was buried Friday at Ikoyi Cemetery, Lagos. #PeterRufai #SuperEagles #TariboWest

Former Super Eagles Forward Ideye Retires From Football Former Super Eagles striker Brown Ideye has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 36, bringing an end to a career that spanned more than a decade across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. The ex-Enyimba forward confirmed his decision in a message on Tuesday, describing it as one taken with “mixed emotions” and expressing gratitude to coaches, teammates, fans, and others who supported his journey. Ideye featured for clubs including Dynamo Kyiv, West Bromwich Albion, and Olympiakos, winning titles and building a reputation as a consistent goalscorer. Most memorably, he was part of the Nigerian squad that lifted the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in South Africa under late coach Stephen Keshi. Reflecting on his career, Ideye said football gave him “incredible joy, sad days, lifelong friendships, and unforgettable memories.” Though stepping away from the pitch, he pledged to remain connected to the sport as he begins a new chapter. #SuperEagles #BrownIdeye #AFCON

Sudan Striker Taunts Home-Based Super Eagles After 4–0 Defeat Sudanese forward Abdel Raouf Yagoub has mocked Nigeria’s home-based Super Eagles, describing them as “very slow on the ball” with a “poor recovery rate” following their crushing 4–0 loss. The comment has sparked debate among fans, with many calling for urgent improvements in the team’s pace, tactics, and fitness ahead of future fixtures. #SuperEagles #SudanVsNigeria #FootballNews #SportsUpdates #NigeriaFootball #SudanFootball #CAF #SoccerTalk #SportsBuzz

Super Eagles and Nottingham Forest striker, Taiwo Awoniyi, reflects on how football shaped his life — from humble beginnings in Kwara State to international stardom. “Growing up in Kwara, football gave me purpose. It taught me discipline, kept me focused, and helped me dream beyond my environment. I know what this game can do for a young boy with little more than hope and heart — because I was that boy.” Now, he's giving back through the Kwara Kiddies League, investing in young talent and using the game as a tool to build character and purpose. He also extended heartfelt appreciation to supporters of the league and called on others to join in empowering the next generation through sport. “Football is powerful. It opens doors, shapes lives, and gives purpose. Let’s keep using it to build a stronger future.” Recently honoured with the PFA Community Champion Award (2024–25), Awoniyi’s journey is inspiring a new wave of hope and determination. #TaiwoAwoniyi #FootballForChange #InspiringGenerations #SuperEagles

Transfer Talks Heat Up: Bayer Leverkusen Demand €50M for Victor Boniface German Bundesliga side Bayer Leverkusen have set a hefty €50 million price tag on Nigerian striker Victor Boniface, according to Daily Post Nigeria. The move comes amid rising interest from top European clubs following Boniface’s stellar debut season under manager Xabi Alonso. The Super Eagles forward was instrumental in Leverkusen’s historic unbeaten league campaign, scoring crucial goals and earning a reputation as one of Europe’s hottest young talents. His combination of strength, flair, and finishing ability has attracted interest from Premier League and Serie A giants. Club sources reveal that Leverkusen are not in a hurry to sell, but will only entertain offers starting at €50M—underscoring how valuable Boniface has become to the squad. With the summer transfer window approaching, the coming weeks could see a bidding war for the 23-year-old. For now, Boniface remains focused on finishing the season strong—and possibly leading Nigeria to future continental glory. ⸻According to daily post Nigeria #VictorBoniface #TransferNews #BayerLeverkusen #SuperEagles #BonifaceToPremierLeague

Super Eagles Triumph Over Ghana, Ready to Face Jamaica in Unity Cup Final According to The Guardian, Nigeria’s Super Eagles secured a thrilling 2-1 victory over Ghana in the Unity Cup semi-final at Brentford’s Gtech Community Stadium in London. Cyriel Dessers continued his fine form by scoring his third goal for Nigeria, helping the team clinch the win. With this victory, the Super Eagles are set to face Jamaica in the final on Saturday, May 31, at 7:45 PM WAT. Fans can catch the exciting showdown live on NFF TV, MAX, and AfroSport. This final promises to be a captivating contest as Nigeria aims to lift the Unity Cup and continue their winning momentum. #SuperEagles #UnityCup2025 #NigeriaVsGhana

🏆 Unity Cup Thriller: Super Eagles Soar Past Ghana with 2-1 Victory In a thrilling showdown at Brentford's Gtech Community Stadium in London, Nigeria's Super Eagles clinched a 2-1 victory over rivals Ghana in the semi-final of the Unity Cup, according to The Guardian. The high-stakes match showcased Nigeria’s resilience and tactical strength. Cyriel Dessers, continuing his impressive run, netted his third goal for the national team, solidifying his place as a rising force in the squad. The win sends the Super Eagles into the tournament final, further fueling excitement and national pride as they aim to lift the trophy. Fans across the continent are eagerly awaiting the next clash, with Nigeria now one step closer to Unity Cup glory. #SuperEagles #UnityCup2025 #CyrielDessers #NigeriaVsGhana

JUST IN: Super Eagles striker, Victor Osimhen is reportedly close to securing his next move to Saudi Arabia, as he "closes in on personal agreement" with Al Hilal. From Naples to Riyadh? Money talks, but legacy whispers. Whatever the decision, we just want to keep seeing him shine — According to @NigeriaStories #NigeriaStories #Osimhen #SuperEagles #AlHilal #TransferNews