Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) will attempt to end their losing run on the road when they visit Ikorodu City in week 10 of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) on Sunday.

The Oluyole Warriors have yet to collect a point away from home this season, losing all four of their previous fixtures outside Ibadan. They have scored three goals in those matches and conceded 10.

Their next challenge comes at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, Lagos, where Ikorodu City have established an impressive home record. The hosts have won three and drawn one of their four matches at the venue this season.

3SC’s difficult away form contrasts with the confidence generated by their latest result. They ended a five-match winless run by defeating Ranchers Bees 3-1 at the Lekan Salami Stadium in Ibadan.

That victory also lifted Shooting Stars out of the relegation zone and provided a timely boost before their trip to Lagos. The club’s technical crew will now want the players to reproduce the determination shown in that match against stronger home opposition.

History provides another advantage to Ikorodu City. They have avoided defeat in the last four meetings between the sides, recording two wins in Lagos and two draws in Ibadan.

For Shooting Stars, the fixture represents an opportunity to turn their improved home form into progress on their travels. A point would be their first away result of the campaign, while a victory would give them a significant lift after their inconsistent start.

The 3-1 success against Ranchers Bees ended a difficult spell, but Sunday’s match will test whether that performance marked a sustained change in momentum or was simply a return to form on home ground.

Ikorodu City’s unbeaten record at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena means 3SC face a demanding assignment. However, claiming their first away point or securing a win would strengthen the belief that their five-game run without victory is behind them and provide a platform for their season to progress.

Nigeria head coach Akeem Busari praised his players for showing courage and determination after the Flamingos defeated defending champions North Korea 3-1 at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.

The victory on Friday night secured Nigeria’s place in the Round of 16 and completed an impressive recovery from their 2-1 defeat by Poland in their opening match.

The Flamingos responded to that disappointment with a 2-0 win against Puerto Rico before producing their best performance of the tournament against a North Korea side that had scored 12 goals and conceded only once in its first two matches.

Busari said the result was made more significant by the strength of their opponents, whose record had made them clear favourites before kick-off.

“Everybody would have written Nigeria off, looking at Korea’s record and level of play. In two games, they scored 12 goals and conceded only one, while we won one and lost the other,” Busari said during his interaction with the media after the game.

The Nigeria coach also highlighted the mental challenge his players had faced after beginning the tournament with defeat.

North Korea had beaten Poland 6-1, while Poland had defeated Nigeria in their opening fixture. Busari said the Flamingos had needed to put that result behind them and rebuild their belief before facing the defending champions.

“The team we lost to also lost 6-1 to Korea. But we took our courage and let our girls see that Poland are not a team we need to lose to,” he said.

Busari added that the circumstances of the opening match had affected Nigeria’s confidence, but insisted the meeting with North Korea provided an opportunity to demonstrate the team’s ability.

“Being the first game in the tournament, we were not really up there psychologically. So this was a game we had to prove our point,” Busari added.

The 3-1 victory sends the Flamingos into the knockout stage after a group campaign that began with a setback but ended with consecutive wins.

Nigeria will play the runners-up from Group B in the Round of 16 in Sale on Thursday.

Nigeria continue their bid to qualify for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations with a double-header against Tanzania’s Taifa Stars next month, and five players have strengthened their case for inclusion in Eric Chelle’s Super Eagles squad.

Chelle handed maiden international call-ups to Isaac James, George Ilenikhena and Moses Usor for Nigeria’s opening qualifiers against Madagascar’s Barea and Guinea-Bissau’s Djurtus.

However, a number of players have impressed for their clubs since the beginning of the 2026/27 season. Here are five who could come into contention for the matches against Tanzania.

Gift Orban – Amedspor

Gift Orban has made an excellent start to his loan spell at Turkish Super Lig newcomers Amedspor, having joined from Bundesliga club TSG Hoffenheim in July 2026.

The 24-year-old striker has scored seven goals and supplied two assists in eight league appearances, making him one of the division’s leading forwards.

He was rewarded with the Turkish Super Lig Goal of the Month prize for September after scoring a spectacular goal in Amedspor’s 3-2 home win over Besiktas.

Amedspor have won five, drawn two and lost one of the eight league matches in which Orban has played, underlining his influence on their strong start.

Rafiu Durosinmi – KRC Genk

Rafiu Durosinmi endured a difficult six-month spell with Italian club Pisa before moving to Belgian side KRC Genk in July 2026.

The 23-year-old has quickly established himself in Belgium, scoring six goals in his first eight league appearances under manager Jess Thorup. That return has made him the Smurfs’ top scorer and placed him at the summit of the Belgian Pro League scoring charts.

Durosinmi also scored in Genk’s 2-0 victory over Excelsior Virton on 17 October 2026, a result which secured their place in the Round of 32 of the Belgian Cup.

Emmanuel Ayaosi – Slavia Prague

Ayaosi’s progress has been rapid. The 21-year-old winger was playing for Dakkada FC in the Nigeria National League, NNL, only three years ago.

He moved to Slavia Prague from Czech second-tier club MFK Karvina in May 2026 and has since scored four league goals and provided one assist in 10 appearances.

Ayaosi was also involved in Slavia Prague’s 2-2 away draw against Fenerbahce on Tuesday, supplying an assist.

Dapo Afolayan – Blackburn Rovers

Born in London, England, to Nigerian parents, Dapo Afolayan is eligible to play for England but has recently indicated that he wants to represent the Super Eagles.

The versatile forward has scored four goals and added two assists in 11 Sky Bet Championship appearances for Blackburn Rovers this season.

His form earned him a nomination for the Sky Bet Championship Player of the Month award for September 2026.

Mubarak Suleiman – Slavia Prague

Mubarak Suleiman received his first Super Eagles call-up for last month’s international friendly against Russia but missed the fixture because of injury.

The 19-year-old strengthened his claim for another opportunity with an impressive display in Slavia Prague’s 2-2 Champions League draw away to Fenerbahce on Tuesday, 20 October 2026.

Alongside Ayaosi, Suleiman has become one of Slavia Prague’s attacking threats this season, recording one goal and one assist in six league appearances.

Finland-Nigeria forward David Ezeh is the subject of a rumoured move from HJK Helsinki to fellow Veikkausliiga club KuPS Kuopio.

The 20-year-old centre-forward’s contract with HJK expires on 31 December 2026, placing his future at the Finnish champions under scrutiny as the season develops. No transfer fee or agreement has been reported.

Ezeh has made nine Veikkausliiga appearances this season, scoring once and providing two assists. He has also contributed two goals and three assists in two Suomen Cup matches, although he has not featured in HJK’s Veikkausliiga Championship Group campaign or in Conference League qualifying.

Born in Helsinki, Ezeh joined HJK’s senior squad from HJK Klubi 04 in January 2023. He has won the Finnish championship with the club, as well as the Finnish League Cup in 2023 and the Finnish Cup in 2025.

His market value is listed at €150,000, while his current deal leaves HJK facing a decision over whether to retain him or consider a move before his contract expires. KuPS, who compete in the same division, are the club currently linked with the forward.

Nigeria’s Flamingos will learn their opponents in the last 16 of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup after the final Group F matches are played tonight.

Akeem Busari’s team secured second place in Group B with a 3-1 victory over defending champions North Korea in Rabat on Friday.

The result gave the Flamingos six points from their three group matches and confirmed their progress to the knockout stage. Their next opponents will be the team that finishes second in Group F.

Spain have already guaranteed their place in the last 16 after winning their opening matches against Mexico and Australia.

Mexico currently hold second position in the group after beating Chile 3-1. Chile and Australia each have one point, meaning both sides can still qualify for the knockout phase.

The outcome of the two final Group F fixtures will decide who meets Nigeria. Chile will play Spain, while Mexico will face Australia.

Mexico will qualify as runners-up if they avoid defeat against Australia. Chile or Australia could claim second place with victory, depending on the results and the final standings.

The Flamingos’ last-16 match is scheduled to take place in Sale, Morocco, on Thursday, October 29.

Enyimba coach Lawrence Ukaegbu says “the storm is over” as the club attempt to recover lost ground in the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL).

The struggling giants are currently 18th in the NPFL standings, but Ukaegbu believes the club’s recent difficulties have been resolved and that the team can still mount a strong challenge.

“The crisis really affected the players and our output on the field. But now everything has calmed down,” Ukaegbu said.

The former junior international described the problems as part of the pressure faced by leading clubs, while insisting that Enyimba’s players and staff had responded by working together.

He said chairman Kanu Nwankwo had helped settle the situation after a misunderstanding over responsibilities within the club.

“The chairman, Kanu Nwankwo, has asked everyone to calm down and work together. It was a misunderstanding of roles, which should not have arisen in the first place,” Ukaegbu said.

“But Kanu is a calm man, who does his thing with all sense of responsibility. He has been able to galvanise the team, hence the results people are beginning to see.”

Although Ukaegbu acknowledged that there are still outside ambitions to control the club, he said Kanu remained focused on guiding Enyimba towards success.

The club’s low position in the table has not weakened Ukaegbu’s belief in their prospects. He pointed to the strength of the squad and the experience of Cameroonian Technical Advisor Emmanuel Deutsch as reasons for his confidence.

“Ask any of the teams that have faced us this season, even in matches we lost. They will tell you that Enyimba is the team to beat,” Ukaegbu stated.

He also backed the influence of Deutsch, who he believes can help the team compete for major honours.

“We have a perfect technical advisor, Emmanuel Deutsch from Cameroon. He is well experienced. And the quality in the players we have makes me feel and believe that we will carry the league,” Ukaegbu said.

“Even if we don’t win the league, we will play on the continent next season.”

Enyimba now have the opportunity to turn that renewed confidence into points when they travel to Lafia this weekend to face Nasarawa United.

The trip comes as the club seek to move away from 18th place and begin making up ground in the NPFL after their troubled start.

Nigeria’s Flamingos have reached the round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA women’s U-17 World Cup after defeating defending champions North Korea 3-1 in their final Group B game.

The win on Friday secured Nigeria’s place in the knockout stage and lifted them into second position in the group, behind North Korea.

Oluwakemi Adegbuyi, Oluebube Umejiaku and Kanyisola Yusuf scored for Nigeria as the Flamingos produced their most important performance of the tournament so far.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) congratulated the team following their qualification, posting on its X handle: “Round of 16, here we come! ???.”

Nigeria’s progress came despite losing their opening match of the competition 2-1 to Poland. Coach Akeem Busari’s side responded in their second fixture by beating Puerto Rico 2-0, before completing their group campaign with the victory over North Korea.

The result against the reigning champions ensured the Flamingos finished above Poland and Puerto Rico in Group B, while North Korea retained top spot.

In the group’s other final match, Poland defeated tournament debutants Puerto Rico 6-2. That result left Poland in third place.

The Flamingos’ campaign therefore began with a setback against Poland but ended with successive victories over Puerto Rico and North Korea to send them into the knockout rounds.

North Korea’s status as defending champions made the result particularly significant for Nigeria, who needed to avoid finishing outside the qualifying positions after their defeat by Poland in the opening round of matches.

CAF’s message followed a victory that confirmed the Flamingos among the teams continuing into the last 16 of the 2026 FIFA women’s U-17 World Cup.

Nigerian champions Rangers have been knocked out of the CAF Champions League after MC Alger overturned a two-goal deficit to win the second leg 3-0 on Friday night.

The Algerian side advanced from the second preliminary round tie 3-2 on aggregate, recovering from Rangers’ 2-0 victory in the opening leg.

Rangers defended resolutely during the first half as MC Alger searched for a way back into the contest. Goalkeeper Destiny Abuchi played a key role, producing two important saves to preserve his side’s advantage.

But the pressure eventually told two minutes before the hour mark when Chahreddine Boukholda opened the scoring for MC Alger.

The goal gave the hosts renewed belief and brought them closer to completing the comeback, although Rangers remained ahead on aggregate.

Abuchi then appeared to have kept Rangers in control when he saved a penalty from Mohamed Bangoura in the 70th minute.

Bangoura responded six minutes before the end of normal time, making up for the missed spot-kick by producing a composed finish to bring MC Alger level at 2-2 on aggregate.

The Algerian club completed the turnaround in stoppage time when Soufiane Bayazid scored the decisive goal, sending MC Alger through and ending Rangers’ campaign.

Rangers’ departure means Nigeria will have no representative in the CAF Champions League group phase. Rivers United had already been eliminated in the first preliminary round.

Nigerian champions Rangers have been knocked out of the CAF Champions League after MC Alger overturned a two-goal deficit to win the second leg 3-0 on Friday night.

The Algerian side advanced from the second preliminary round tie 3-2 on aggregate, recovering from Rangers’ 2-0 victory in the opening leg.

Rangers defended resolutely during the first half as MC Alger searched for a way back into the contest. Goalkeeper Destiny Abuchi played a key role, producing two important saves to preserve his side’s advantage.

But the pressure eventually told two minutes before the hour mark when Chahreddine Boukholda opened the scoring for MC Alger.

The goal gave the hosts renewed belief and brought them closer to completing the comeback, although Rangers remained ahead on aggregate.

Abuchi then appeared to have kept Rangers in control when he saved a penalty from Mohamed Bangoura in the 70th minute.

Bangoura responded six minutes before the end of normal time, making up for the missed spot-kick by producing a composed finish to bring MC Alger level at 2-2 on aggregate.

The Algerian club completed the turnaround in stoppage time when Soufiane Bayazid scored the decisive goal, sending MC Alger through and ending Rangers’ campaign.

Rangers’ departure means Nigeria will have no representative in the CAF Champions League group phase. Rivers United had already been eliminated in the first preliminary round.

Nigeria’s Flamingos secured a place in the Round of 16 at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco with a 3–1 win over defending champions Korea DPR on Friday.

Akeem Busari’s side delivered an impressive performance against the two-time defending champions to complete their Group B campaign with six points.

Nigeria took control in the 15th minute when Oluwakemi Adegbuyi opened the scoring. The early goal gave the Flamingos confidence and they continued to threaten the Korea DPR defence.

Their advantage was doubled three minutes before half-time. Oluebube Umejiaku finished a well-created move after receiving an assist from Tosin Rafiu, putting Nigeria 2–0 ahead in the 38th minute.

The Flamingos extended their lead 11 minutes into the second half. Kanyinsola Yusuf produced a superb free-kick in the 56th minute to make it 3–0 and leave the defending champions facing a difficult challenge.

Korea DPR managed to reduce the deficit in the 82nd minute, with Yu Jong Hyang scoring to give the champions hope of a late recovery. Nigeria, however, held firm to claim a notable victory and progress to the knockout stage.

Adegbuyi thought she had added a fourth in the 88th minute, but the goal was ruled out after a video review. The referee judged that there had been a foul in the build-up.

Nigeria began the tournament with a 2–1 defeat by Poland before recovering to beat Puerto Rico 2–0 in their second fixture. The victory over Korea DPR completed a six-point group-stage total.

In the other Group B match, Poland defeated Puerto Rico 6–2. The result meant Poland, Nigeria and Korea DPR all finished the group stage on six points.

Super Falcons captain Rasheedat Ajibade has praised Nigeria’s Flamingos after their 3-1 victory over defending champions North Korea at the 2026 FIFA U-17 women’s World Cup.

The result, recorded in the final Group B match on Friday, secured the Flamingos’ place in the round of 16 and saw them finish second in the section.

Oluwakemi Adegbuyi, Oluebube Umejiaku and Kanyisola Yusuf scored for Nigeria in an impressive performance against North Korea.

Ajibade congratulated the team in a message posted on her X handle.

“Congratulations to the Flamingos on your win today!

“Keep going, Flamingos! ??.”

The victory completed a recovery in the group for Akeem Busari’s side, who began the tournament with a 2-1 defeat by Poland.

Nigeria responded by beating tournament debutants Puerto Rico 2-1 before producing their strongest result against North Korea, the reigning champions.

Poland claimed top spot in the group after a 6-2 victory over Puerto Rico in the other final Group B fixture.

That result left Puerto Rico in third place, while the Flamingos advanced to the knockout stage in second.

Nigeria defeated defending champions North Korea 3-1 in their final group-stage match at the ongoing 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, with DPR Korea head coach Ji Yun-nam admitting his side could not match the Flamingos’ physical strength.

Akeem Busari’s team produced an impressive display on Friday to secure a convincing victory over the holders.

Nigeria made the breakthrough in the 25th minute after Oluwakemi Adegbuyi collected a pass on the left. The forward held off a North Korean defender before finishing calmly with her right foot.

The Flamingos increased their advantage before the interval. Oluebube Umejiaku powered her way through the DPR Korea defence and then placed her shot beyond goalkeeper Kim Son-gyong.

North Korea responded with greater urgency after the restart, applying pressure as they attempted to get back into the contest.

Nigeria, however, remained firm and added a third goal through Kanyinsola Yusuf, who found the net with a superbly executed free-kick.

The Asian side were awarded a late penalty, which Yu Jong-hyang converted to reduce the deficit. It was not enough to change the outcome, as Nigeria held on for a 3-1 win.

Yun-nam acknowledges Nigeria’s advantage

Yun-nam said the match had highlighted weaknesses his team must address, particularly their physical preparation, as North Korea looks ahead to the Round of 16.

“Playing against a strong team like Nigeria made me realise how challenging it is to compete at the world level,” Yun-nam told FIFA.

“Facing an African team also showed me that we need to prepare better in terms of strength. We will prepare well for the Round of 16 and aim to achieve a better result.”

Bendel Insurance are confident they can hand Rivers United their first defeat of the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) season when the sides meet at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium on Saturday.

Rivers United are the only unbeaten team remaining in the league this season, but Bendel Insurance believe their strong home record can help them claim all three points.

The Benin Arsenal have already ended an unbeaten run at their home ground this campaign, defeating Barau FC when they were yet to lose in the league. Club media officer Kehinde Osagiede says the team are ready to repeat that result against Rivers United.

Speaking to Completesports.com before the match, Osagiede acknowledged the challenge posed by the visitors but said the Bendel Insurance players were in high spirits.

“Yes, I expect a tough encounter against a Rivers United side that has remained unbeaten in the league,” Osagiede said.

“For us, that is not news because we defeated Barau FC here at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium when they were also unbeaten in the league.

“Our priority is to play a good game and get the massive support from our fans that will subdue Rivers United on match day.”

Bendel Insurance are confident they can hand Rivers United their first defeat of the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) season when the sides meet at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium on Saturday.

Rivers United are the only unbeaten team remaining in the league this season, but Bendel Insurance believe their strong home record can help them claim all three points.

The Benin Arsenal have already ended an unbeaten run at their home ground this campaign, defeating Barau FC when they were yet to lose in the league. Club media officer Kehinde Osagiede says the team are ready to repeat that result against Rivers United.

Speaking to Completesports.com before the match, Osagiede acknowledged the challenge posed by the visitors but said the Bendel Insurance players were in high spirits.

“Yes, I expect a tough encounter against a Rivers United side that has remained unbeaten in the league,” Osagiede said.

“For us, that is not news because we defeated Barau FC here at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium when they were also unbeaten in the league.

“Our priority is to play a good game and get the massive support from our fans that will subdue Rivers United on match day.”

Nigeria captain Azeezat Oduntan says the Flamingos must maintain their momentum after their 3-1 victory over North Korea secured their place in the knockout stages of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.

Nigeria produced an impressive performance on Friday to defeat the defending champions and confirm their qualification for the next round. Oduntan, however, insisted the team had not yet reached its ultimate target.

“I’m super proud of my teammates because they all came out and chose to play,” Oduntan told FIFA.com. “We have to keep going and keep fighting. I feel excited, but we are not there yet because we just qualified for the next round.”

The Flamingos went into the match needing a positive result to keep their campaign on course after opening the tournament with a narrow 2-1 defeat by Poland. They responded with a win against Puerto Rico before facing North Korea in their final group match.

Oluwakemisola Adegbuyi gave Nigeria the lead after 15 minutes, finishing the move to put the Flamingos in front. Oluebube Umejiaku extended the advantage in the 38th minute, leaving Nigeria in control before half-time.

Rodiat Yusuf added a third goal 11 minutes into the second half to put the result beyond doubt. North Korea reduced the deficit late on when Yu Jong-Hyang converted from the penalty spot, but Nigeria comfortably held on to complete a significant victory.

The result officially secured Nigeria’s position in the knockout stages, with the Flamingos progressing to the round of 16. Yusuf was also named Player of the Match after her contribution to the win.

Oduntan praised the determination shown by her team-mates but stressed that qualification was only the next step in their tournament campaign.

Her message comes as Nigeria prepare to continue their challenge at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, with the captain calling on the squad to retain its focus and continue competing for its ultimate goal.

Nigeria international Kanyinsola Yusuf was named Player of the Match after helping the Flamingos defeat North Korea 3-1 at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.

Yusuf capped an influential display with Nigeria’s third goal, while her work rate and overall contribution played a key role in securing the victory and a place in the tournament’s knockout stages.

Nigeria established control of the match in the first half. Oluwakemi Adegbuyi opened the scoring in the 25th minute, giving the Flamingos an early advantage against North Korea.

The West Africans extended their lead 13 minutes later when Oluebube found the net in the 38th minute. Nigeria went into the interval with a two-goal cushion and in a strong position to claim the points.

The Flamingos continued to apply pressure after the restart and moved further ahead in the 58th minute. Yusuf produced a decisive finish to make it 3-0, a moment that was greeted enthusiastically by Nigeria’s technical crew on the touchline.

North Korea responded late in the game, with Yu Jong-Hyang scoring in the 82nd minute to reduce the deficit. However, Nigeria remained composed during the closing stages and prevented the defending side from mounting a further comeback.

Yusuf’s performance combined her attacking impact with sustained effort across the match. Her goal gave Nigeria additional breathing room and completed a display that earned her the individual award.

The result confirmed Nigeria’s progress to the knockout stages of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, with the Flamingos having secured their place after overcoming North Korea 3-1.

Nigeria’s Flamingos secured a place in the round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup with a 3-1 victory over defending champions North Korea in their final Group B match in Morocco on Friday.

Oluwakemi Adegbuyi and Oluebube Umejiaku put Nigeria 2-0 ahead before Kanyinsola Yusuf added a third after the break. Jong Hyang Yu scored a late consolation for North Korea after a Video Assistant Referee review.

The result lifted the Flamingos into second place in the group and guaranteed their progress to the knockout stage. North Korea still finished top, having won their opening two matches against debutants Puerto Rico and Poland by 6-0 and 6-1 respectively.

Nigeria entered the match needing a positive result after a 2-1 defeat by Poland and a 2-0 win over Puerto Rico in their first two games.

They made a strong start and took the lead in the 15th minute. Adegbuyi collected a floated pass from the left, drove into the penalty area and cut inside before placing her finish beyond the goalkeeper.

The Flamingos doubled their advantage three minutes before half-time. Umejiaku was sent through on goal and kept her composure to shoot past the North Korea goalkeeper, who had advanced from her line.

Nigeria continued to press for another goal and were rewarded in the 56th minute when Yusuf scored from a superb free-kick.

North Korea reduced the deficit with eight minutes remaining. Yu’s goal was awarded following consultation with the Video Assistant Referee, but Nigeria held on for a notable victory against the reigning champions.

In the group’s other match, played at the same time, Poland defeated Puerto Rico 6-2 to finish third.

Match statistics

Nigeria 3-1 North Korea

Goalscorers

Nigeria: Oluwakemi Adegbuyi 15 minutes, Oluebube Umejiaku 38 minutes, Kanyisola Yusuf 56 minutes

North Korea: Jong Hyang Yu 82 minutes

Nigeria

Jane Ijirigho; Azeezat Oduntan, Ohunene Sunday, Esther Stephen, Kanyinsola Yusuf, Mary Dunstan, Favour Nkwocha, Tosin Rafiu, Queen Joseph, Oluwakemi Adegbuyi, Oluebube Umejiaku.

Substitutes: Awawu BASHIRU for Mary Dunstan, 65 minutes; Precious Oscar for Queen Joseph, 84 minutes.

Head coach: Akeem Busari.

North Korea

Son Gyong Kim; Kyong Ryong Pak, Pok Rim Ri, Chong Gum EH, Ui Gyong Ri, Kyong Im Ri, Ye Rim Ri, Ju Gyong Kim, Jong Hyang Yu, Won Yong Song, Won Sim Kim.

Substitutes: Sol Gyong for Ui Gyong Ri, 52 minutes; Ye Rim So for Ye Rim Ri, 67 minutes; Yu Song Ri for Ju Gyong Kim, 87 minutes.

Head coach: Yun Nam Ji.

Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle has called up 31 home-based players for the Olympic Eagles’ two-legged 2026 U-23 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying tie against the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The squad includes four goalkeepers, nine defenders, eight midfielders and 10 forwards. All selected players are expected at the AM2PM Hotel in Ijebu-Ode on Sunday, October 25, when preparations will begin.

Nigeria have received a bye into the second round, while the Democratic Republic of Congo reached this stage after beating Mauritania over two legs. The winner of the tie will advance to the final qualifying round.

The first leg is scheduled for the TP Mazembe Stadium in Lubumbashi on Friday, November 13. Nigeria will host the return fixture at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne-Remo on Tuesday, November 17.

The qualification campaign is an important step in Nigeria’s bid to return to the Men’s Football Tournament at the Olympic Games. The 2026 U-23 Africa Cup of Nations, to be held in Egypt, will decide Africa’s representatives at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Men’s Football Tournament.

Nigeria won Olympic football gold at Atlanta 1996, silver at Beijing 2008 and bronze at Rio de Janeiro 2016. However, the country have not appeared in the men’s football competition at the Olympic Games for the past 10 years, missing Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024.

Chelle’s squad will now travel to Lubumbashi for the opening match before returning to Nigeria for the second leg four days later.

The Olympic Eagles squad

Goalkeepers

- Chinemerem Olughu Nasarawa United

- Clinton Andy Rivers United

- Ebenezer Harcourt Sporting Lagos

- Michael Atata Ikorodu City

Defenders

- Gift Subi Warri Wolves

- Hillary Zion Sporting Lagos

- Emmanuel Utake Rivers United

- Chibueze Oputa Rangers International

- Marvelous Freedom Ikorodu City

- Kenneth Igboke Rangers International

- Odinaka Alfred Nasarawa United

- Emmanuel Ochobi Rivers United

- Aliu Sugau Barau FC

Midfielders

- Freeman Wuchirwe Bendel Insurance

- Victor Samuel Sporting Lagos

- Umar Mohammed Nasarawa United

- Lucky Oraro Warri Wolves

- Aderemi Adeoye Ikorodu City

- Sani Shuaibu Warri Wolves

- Muhammad Salihu Sporting Lagos

- Jude Eventus Warri Wolves

Forwards

- Junior Ikechukwu Ikorodu City

- Timothy Zechariah Rivers United

- Williams Wonah Enyimba FC

- Ayoola Olaniyan Sporting Lagos

- Chijioke Samuel Enyimba FC

- Jofrank Joshua Nasarawa United

- Chimobi Igwilo Rangers International

- Alex Oweifaleya Bendel Insurance

- Abdulmuiz Adeleke Sporting Supreme

- Habila Simon Wikki Tourists

Lionel Messi says he wants to be remembered for continuing to pursue his ambitions, rather than solely for the trophies he won, after reflecting on Argentina’s defeat by Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final.

Messi, 39, said the disappointment was part of his football journey and that the most important thing was giving everything in the attempt to win. “In football, winning is very difficult, and you have to appreciate the journey, because only one team can win,” he said.

The Inter Miami forward recently retired from international football after scoring 126 goals in 208 appearances for Argentina. His career included years of criticism and near misses before he won the Copa America in 2021, another continental title and the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

Messi was speaking in Oviedo, Spain, where he will receive the Princess of Asturias Award for Sport on Friday, October 23, at a ceremony presided over by the King and Queen of Spain.

He arrived in Oviedo on Thursday and was greeted by hundreds of supporters outside his hotel. Accompanied by his wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, the former Barcelona captain signed autographs, posed for photographs and met fans.

The award recognises both Messi’s football achievements and his charitable work supporting access to education and healthcare for disadvantaged children. The Princess of Asturias Foundation praised his career, influence on football and commitment to helping children facing disadvantage.

Messi said he was excited and grateful to receive the honour, particularly because of its prestige and his long connection with Spain. The recognition adds to a collection of individual and team honours that includes eight Ballon d'Or awards, two Copa America titles and the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

Messi on learning from defeat

Argentina’s loss to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final ended their attempt to retain the trophy. Messi said players must learn to value the journey even when their efforts do not produce the result they want.

He believes experiencing defeat helped him understand the importance of accepting mistakes and using them to improve. Football inevitably brings setbacks, he said, and players need to know how to win and how to lose.

Messi’s international career ended with 126 goals in 208 appearances, making him one of the most decorated players in Argentina’s history.

His route to that success began when he left Argentina as a young teenager to join Barcelona. He spent 20 years at the club, winning domestic and European honours and becoming central to one of the most successful periods in its history. He later played for Paris Saint-Germain before joining Inter Miami.

Messi said the values taught by his parents, together with Barcelona’s discipline and commitment, shaped both his football and his life. He described Barcelona as the club of his life and said his responsibilities there extended beyond his performances on the pitch.

He also paid tribute to his father and agent, Jorge Messi, who died on August 8. Messi said they had shared a strong bond and that his father had been “very happy” about the Princess of Asturias Award.

He recalled his father’s repeated advice to keep trying, whether an attempt succeeded or failed. That lesson, Messi said, helped him through the challenges of his career and remains central to how he hopes to be remembered.

Ranchers Bees face Doma United on October 25, with kick-off scheduled for 15:00 GMT. The fixture brings together two teams heading into the match with markedly different recent records.

Ranchers Bees have lost three of their last five games, with their sequence reading LWLWL. Doma United, by contrast, have won three of their previous five matches and are unbeaten in four of them, following a run of WWWLD.

The key statistics of the players of both teams this season:

Assists: (Ranchers Bees) — 0 assists, (Doma United) — 0 assists.Goalkeepers saves: (Ranchers Bees) — 0, (Doma United) — 0Tackles: (Ranchers Bees) — 0, (Doma United) — 0.Most encounters won: (Ranchers Bees) — 0, (Doma United) — 0.

Top 5 scorers this season:

(0)

(0)

Team statistics:

The difference in recent form gives Doma United the stronger momentum before the meeting, although Ranchers Bees will hope home advantage can help them halt their inconsistent run. The hosts have alternated between wins and defeats across their last five matches, showing that they have been difficult to predict but have also struggled to build a sustained sequence of positive results.

The five previous matches played by the teams:

Ranchers Bees — LWLWLDoma United — WWWLD

Doma United’s record points to greater stability. Three victories in their last five matches would have strengthened confidence in the squad, while the two most recent results a win followed by a draw suggest they have continued to collect points even when unable to claim victory.

According to home statistics this season, Ranchers Bees scores more goals and concedes more in the following intervals:

IntervalsGoal Scored, %Goals conceded, %0-1533.33%7.69%16-30 16.67%15.38%31-4516.67%7.69% 46-6033.33%15.38%61-7515.38%76-9038.46%91-105

Doma United has the following time frames of scoring and conceding goals:

Intervals

Goal Scored, %

Goals conceded, %

0-15

10.00%

11.11%

16-30

20.00%

11.11%

31-45

30.00%

11.11%

46-60

20.00%

33.33%

61-75

20.00%

33.33%

76-90

91-105

Head-to-head stats:

Teams

Games

Win

Draws

Losses

H

A

H

A

H

A

Ranchers Bees

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

Doma United

0

0

0

0

0

0

Probabilities before the match:

Ranchers Bees

Doma United

50.0%

Winning the game50.0%

29%Attack potential

29%54%

Potential in defense54%

0%Strength against each other

0%0%

Goal Potential0%

Summary: the probability of Doma United winning – 45%, draw – 45%, loss – 10%. Thus Ranchers Bees, most likely, loss (loss or draw)

Goal Forecast:Ranchers Bees, is likely to score -2.5 goals, Doma United is likely to score no more than -1.5.

The bookmaker odds for this match:

Home win

Draw

Away win

0

0

0

Save the date

The match between the teams Ranchers Bees and Doma United will take place on October 25 at 15:00 (GMT) at the stadium .