Super Eagles striker Tolu Arokodare has been nominated for Ajax’s Goal of the Month award after his strike against Sion in the UEFA Europa Conference League.

Arokodare scored five minutes after half-time to complete his brace and round off an impressive individual display for the Eredivisie club.

The 25-year-old enjoyed a prolific month, finding the net four times for Ajax since joining the club on a season-long loan from Sky Bet Championship side Wolverhampton Wanderers.

His goal against Sion is one of 10 efforts included on the shortlist for the monthly award.

Arokodare is competing against Pharrell Nash, Anton Gaaei, Abdellah Ouazane and Julian Brandt, while Davy Klaassen, Oliver Edvardsen, Emre Unuvar, Diego Pugno and Isa Benyahia are also nominated.

The recognition comes after Arokodare’s strong start to his temporary spell in Amsterdam. His brace against Sion was among the highlights of a month in which he established himself as a regular source of goals for Ajax.

Despite his contribution, his fifth goal of the season was not enough to prevent Ajax from losing to PSV.

Rangers have progressed to the second preliminary round of the CAF Champions League after defeating Beninese club Sobemap FC 5-4 in a penalty shootout.

The Nigerian champions were held to a 1-1 draw in the second leg of their first preliminary-round tie at Stade de Kegue in Lome on Friday. The result left the aggregate score level at 2-2.

Rangers went ahead in the 22nd minute when Sobemap FC conceded an own goal. However, the hosts responded and equalised with 25 minutes remaining.

Neither team was able to find a decisive goal during regulation time, meaning the tie had to be settled from the penalty spot.

Rangers converted enough of their penalties to win the shootout 5-4 and book their place in the next stage of the competition.

Fidelis Ilechukwu’s team will face Algerian giants MC Alger in the second preliminary round.

By Adeboye Amosu

Fulham defender Calvin Bassey has urged his teammates to stay united and follow Marco Silva’s instructions closely as they prepare for a difficult Premier League encounter against Liverpool at Anfield on Saturday, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The Cottagers travel to Merseyside looking to end a difficult run after losing their opening three league matches of the season.

Fulham suffered a 1-0 defeat to Sunderland last weekend and will now face a Liverpool side that has remained unbeaten in the league so far this campaign.

Bassey has started every Premier League match for Fulham this season and has continued to play an important role in the club’s defence.

The Nigeria international knows the scale of the challenge awaiting his side but believes careful preparation could give them a chance of getting a positive result at Anfield.

“It’s not going to be easy,” Bassey told the club’s website.

“You know what’s coming when you play Liverpool; they have top players. It’s just about doing our homework and seeing how we can hurt them.”

Fulham have struggled to find consistency in their opening fixtures, with defeats to Chelsea and Crystal Palace coming after they were unable to score more goals than their opponents before Sunderland’s disciplined defence proved too difficult to break down.

Bassey revealed that the players have been working closely with Silva to understand what needs to improve, while also stressing the importance of carrying out the manager’s instructions on the pitch.

“We talk with the manager about everything that might not have worked, and try and go into every game understanding more what he wants from us individually as players.”

“He’ll set us up in the right way to tackle Liverpool.”

The Super Eagles defender will once again be expected to play a key role at the heart of Fulham’s defence as they attempt to secure their first Premier League points of the season at one of the toughest grounds in English football.

Super Eagles defender Calvin Bassey says captaining Fulham has been a huge honour as he continues to take responsibility for the Premier League club in the absence of regular skipper Tom Cairney, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Bassey has worn the captain’s armband in each of Fulham’s opening three Premier League matches this season after Cairney was ruled out through injury.

Now entering his fourth season with the London club, the Nigeria international believes his experience and strong relationship with his teammates will help him handle the leadership responsibility.

“It’s a privilege. Being able to captain this club is unbelievable,” Bassey told the club’s official website.

“Going into my fourth season, I know the boys and get on with everyone, so I'll just be myself and try to help everyone.”

“Leading comes naturally because of the position I play, being able to see everything and having to communicate as a centre-half.”

Despite taking on a more prominent leadership role, Bassey insists the captaincy has not changed his personality or approach to matches.

Asked whether he becomes more vocal or aggressive when things go wrong, the defender responded:

“Nah, not really, that’s not me! I’m more chill,” he said.

“Before the game, I’m just happy, smiling as always. I just want everyone to go in with good energy.”

The 25-year-old also explained that he prefers allowing his teammates to process their emotions after disappointing results before discussing what went wrong.

“I know everyone goes out there and gives 100 per cent, and sometimes we’re just not able to win,” he said.

“I know they’re frustrated, I’m frustrated, but I think sometimes it’s best just to leave people be and then speak about it later,” Bassey stated.

Bassey’s growing influence at Fulham represents another positive development for the Super Eagles defender, who has established himself as an important member of Marco Silva’s squad since joining the club.

Nigerian winger Femi Azeez could make his first appearance for Brighton & Hove Albion when the Seagulls travel to face Coventry City on Sunday, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Azeez completed his move from Championship side Millwall to Brighton on transfer deadline day but has had to wait for his debut after suffering a minor hamstring injury shortly after arriving at the club.

Brighton head coach Fabian Hurzeler has now provided an encouraging update on the 25-year-old, confirming that he is close to returning to full fitness.

“Also regarding him (Azeez), I hope he will be an option. He will definitely train today with the squad, and hopefully everything is fine, and then he hopefully is an option for the weekend,” Hurzeler told reporters ahead of the trip to the CBS Arena.

Azeez made one appearance for Millwall this season before completing his switch to the Premier League club.

The former Reading winger will now hope to make the matchday squad as Brighton look to bounce back from last weekend’s 1-1 draw against Leeds United.

The Seagulls have collected just one victory from their opening three Premier League matches this season and will be targeting another three points when they face Coventry.

Azeez will be eager to make his first Brighton appearance and begin a new chapter of his career after overcoming the injury setback that delayed his debut.

Turkish football pundit Umit Karan has criticised Victor Osimhen over his latest injury setback, questioning whether the Super Eagles striker could have done more to protect himself ahead of Galatasaray’s important fixtures, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Osimhen missed Galatasaray’s UEFA Champions League opener against Sporting CP after suffering a groin injury during the club’s 3-2 league victory over Istanbul Basaksehir.

His absence was felt heavily as Galatasaray suffered a 3-1 defeat to the Portuguese side, extending their poor European record without the Nigerian striker.

The Istanbul giants have now failed to win any of their last six European matches in which Osimhen has not featured, further highlighting his importance to the Turkish champions.

Karan, speaking on his YouTube channel and HT Spor, expressed his frustration with the circumstances surrounding Osimhen’s injury.

“I’m also upset with Osimhen. You have a Champions League match in a week. Don’t you dare take care of yourself a little.”

The former Galatasaray striker also questioned the team’s overall performance against Sporting CP and stressed how much the club depends on Osimhen.

“No midfield, and when Victor Osimhen isn’t there, Galatasaray isn’t there either! We started last year’s Champions League the same way. Bar?? Alper Y?lmaz and Sane couldn’t deliver. Rafael Leao came on late. God willing, we won’t suffer a loss like this in the league too.”

Meanwhile, Galatasaray’s coaching and medical teams are working towards having Osimhen available for the club’s next league assignment away to Trabzonspor.

The Nigerian remains under close medical supervision as the club steps up efforts to ensure he recovers in time for the potentially demanding fixture.

Osimhen’s return would provide a major boost for Galatasaray after their disappointing Champions League start, with the striker continuing to be central to the club’s ambitions both domestically and in Europe.

Turkish football pundit Umit Karan has criticised Victor Osimhen for failing to do more to avoid injury ahead of Galatasaray’s crucial fixtures.

Osimhen missed Galatasaray’s 3-1 defeat by Sporting CP on Matchday One of the UEFA Champions League after suffering a groin injury during the club’s 3-2 victory over Istanbul Basaksehir.

The result extended an unwanted record for Galatasaray, who have failed to win any of their six European matches without the Nigeria international in the team.

Karan expressed his frustration on his YouTube channel and on HT Spors, questioning Osimhen’s preparation with a major European fixture approaching.

“I’m also upset with Osimhen. You have a Champions League match in a week. Don’t you dare take care of yourself a little,” he said.

Karan also criticised Galatasaray’s overall performance against Sporting CP, arguing that the team struggled badly in midfield and became ineffective without its leading striker.

“No midfield, and when Victor Osimhen isn’t there, Galatasaray isn’t there either! We started last year’s Champions League the same way,” he added.

“Bar?s Alper Y?lmaz and Sane couldn’t deliver. Rafael Leao came on late. God willing, we won’t suffer a loss like this in the league too.”

Galatasaray’s coaching staff and medical board are now targeting the away match against Trabzonspor for Osimhen’s return.

The club is carrying out intensive work to make the Nigerian striker available for that fixture.

Calvin Bassey says captaining Fulham has been an “unbelievable” privilege after taking over the armband for the club’s first three Premier League matches of the season.

The Nigeria international has been leading the side in the absence of regular captain Tom Cairney, who is injured.

Bassey, who is entering his fourth season with Fulham, believes his knowledge of the squad and relationships with his team-mates will help him perform the role effectively.

“It’s a privilege. Being able to captain this club is unbelievable,” Bassey told Fulham’s official website.

“Going into my fourth season, I know the boys and get on with everyone, so I just be myself and try to help everyone.”

The defender also said his position at centre-half naturally gives him the qualities required to lead, because he can see much of what is happening on the pitch and communicate with those around him.

“Leading comes naturally because of the position I play, being able to see everything and having to communicate as a centre-half,” he said.

Despite taking on greater responsibility, Bassey said the captaincy had not altered his personality. Rather than reacting angrily when matches do not go as planned, he prefers to remain calm and encourage positive energy before kick-off.

“Nah, not really, that’s not me! I’m more chill,” he said.

“Before the game, I’m just happy, smiling as always. I just want everyone to go in with good energy.”

Bassey prefers time to reflect

Bassey added that he understands the frustration felt by his team-mates when Fulham are unable to win, but believes it is often better to give players time before discussing what went wrong.

He said every member of the squad gives full effort, even when the result does not go their way.

“I know everyone goes out there and gives 100 per cent, and sometimes we’re just not able to win,” he said.

“I know they’re frustrated, I’m frustrated, but I think sometimes it’s best just to leave people be and then speak about it later.”

Fulham defender Calvin Bassey says his side will need to produce their best performance when they visit Premier League leaders Liverpool at Anfield on Saturday.

The Cottagers are seeking a response after losing 1-0 at Sunderland last weekend, while Liverpool remain unbeaten in the league this season.

Fulham have endured a difficult start to the campaign, losing each of their first three top-flight matches. Those defeats have come in contrasting circumstances, with the London club unable to score against Chelsea and Palace at home before being frustrated by Sunderland’s disciplined defence.

Bassey has started every Premier League match for Fulham this season and has established himself as an important member of their defence.

Speaking to the club’s website, the Nigeria international said Fulham would have to remain united and follow manager Marco Silva’s instructions closely if they are to earn a result on Merseyside.

“It’s not going to be easy,” Bassey said.

“You know what’s coming when you play Liverpool; they have top players. It’s just about doing our homework and seeing how we can hurt them.”

The defender said the squad had been working with the manager to identify areas that needed improvement and to gain a clearer understanding of their individual responsibilities.

“We talk with the manager about everything that might not have worked, and try and go into every game understanding more what he wants from us individually as players,” he added.

“He’ll set us up in the right way to tackle Liverpool.”

Femi Azeez could make his Brighton & Hove Albion debut against Coventry City on Sunday after recovering from a minor hamstring injury.

The Nigerian winger joined Brighton from Sky Bet Championship side Millwall on transfer deadline day, but the injury delayed his first appearance for the Seagulls.

Brighton head coach Fabian Hurzeler said the 25-year-old was expected to train with the squad and could be included for the trip to the CBS Arena.

“Also regarding him (Azeez), I hope he will be an option. He will definitely train today with the squad and hopefully everything is fine, and then he hopefully is an option for the weekend,” Hurzeler told reporters.

Azeez made one appearance for Millwall this season before completing his move to Brighton. The former Reading winger is now hoping to feature for his new club as they attempt to return to winning ways.

Brighton were held to a 1-1 draw by Leeds United last weekend and have won one of their opening three Premier League fixtures this season.

Azeez’s potential involvement would give Hurzeler another option as Brighton prepare to face Coventry City.

Bendel Insurance have appointed Super Eagles goalkeeper Amas Obasogie as their new captain, with experienced striker Kayode Oke named vice-captain, Completesports.com reports.

Obasogie, 26, has been given the leadership role after returning to the Benin-based club for a second spell. He will lead the Benin Arsenals as they seek to improve their early results in the 2026/27 NPFL season.

The goalkeeper previously spent time with Tanzanian Premier League side Singida Black Stars after leaving Bendel Insurance.

He made a strong impression during his first spell at the club, featuring in 33 league matches in the 2023/24 season. His performances and leadership qualities subsequently helped earn him recognition at national level and involvement with the Super Eagles.

Insurance have now placed their captaincy responsibilities in Obasogie’s hands as they work to assemble a competitive squad capable of mounting a strong challenge during the new campaign.

His previous experience with the club, together with his domestic and international exposure, is expected to provide important leadership for Kennedy Boboye’s team. Bendel Insurance will also be looking to develop greater consistency across the season.

Oke will support Obasogie as deputy captain. The striker has established himself as a dependable attacking option for the Benin Arsenals and is expected to play an important part in the club’s wider leadership group.

Bendel Insurance, former President Federation Cup champions, have made an uneven start to the new NPFL campaign. They have won one and lost one of their opening two matches.

The club will hope the appointments of Obasogie and Oke bring the stability required to improve those results as the season progresses. Insurance are aiming to build momentum and compete strongly in the league.

The Nigeria Premier Football League’s early scoring race has produced an unexpected leader, with Ranchers Bees striker Mohammed Rabiu Zulkifilu, Kano Pillars defender Fabian Nworie and Doma United forward Sadiq Rilwan making impressive starts to the new campaign, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Zulkifilu currently sits at the top of the goalscoring chart after grabbing a hat-trick in Ranchers Bees’ emphatic 4-0 victory over Abia Warriors at the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium in Katsina on Monday.

The striker was handed his first start of the season and took full advantage of the opportunity, finding the net three times to move onto three goals after the opening two matchweeks.

Before Zulkifilu’s outstanding display, Rilwan had been the early pace-setter after scoring against both Sporting Lagos and Inter Lagos.

The Doma United forward remains the only player to have found the net in each of the first two matchweeks of the season.

Rilwan opened his account in Doma United’s 2-0 win over Sporting Lagos before scoring the decisive goal against Inter Lagos, helping his team maintain a perfect start to the campaign.

Nworie has provided another interesting twist to the early Golden Boot race, with the Kano Pillars centre-back scoring twice in his side’s dramatic 3-2 victory over Niger Tornadoes on Sunday.

The former Remo Stars defender’s brace marked his first goals in the top flight and the first time he had scored twice in a single match.

With just two matchweeks gone, the NPFL scoring chart is already beginning to take shape, although the season remains a long way from its conclusion.

For now, Zulkifilu leads the way, with Rilwan and Nworie also making strong claims as early contenders for the league’s Golden Boot.

Arthur Okonkwo believes Charlton Athletic showed the right character to respond to their disappointing weekend defeat after battling to a goalless draw against Queens Park Rangers, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Nathan Jones’ team were looking for a reaction following their heavy 4-0 loss to Stoke City and produced a much-improved defensive performance at home.

Okonkwo played an important role in helping Charlton secure the point, making two notable saves as he recorded a clean sheet against a QPR side that posed a constant threat.

The Nigeria international was pleased with the determination shown by his teammates throughout the tightly contested encounter.

“We knew it was going to be difficult, but I thought the boys dug in well, especially after last week, and we defended really well,” Okonkwo told the club’s media.

“I think we were a bit unfortunate with decisions against us in the first half, but in the end, a clean sheet against a really good side is always good, and we look to Saturday now.”

Okonkwo also disclosed that Jones had demanded a much stronger defensive response after the problems Charlton experienced against Stoke.

“That was the manager’s message before the game. He wanted to see a reaction from us defensively,” he added.

“I think the game against Stoke, we had some decisions against us as well, which set us back, but there’s no excuse for how we defended at times.”

“Today was a good reaction. We stayed strong, defended our box really well, and we were able to get a clean sheet. Would have liked to have won, but that’s football.”

The result gives Charlton an opportunity to build confidence from their improved defensive display as they prepare for another Championship test against Portsmouth on Saturday.

Okonkwo will be hoping to maintain his place between the posts and help Charlton turn their improved defensive showing into a positive run of results.

Shooting Stars defender Damilola Adelowo believes his side can complete their CAF Confederation Cup first preliminary-round victory over CS Sfaxien in Tunisia.

Salisu Yusuf’s team travel to the Stade Taieb Mhiri in Sfax on Sunday night holding a 1-0 lead from the first leg.

The Oluyole Warriors arrived in Sfax on Wednesday as they prepare for the decisive second leg, with Adelowo confident they can secure a positive result and return to Nigeria with victory.

The defender shared his hopes in a post on X, writing: “Tunisia, be good to us!”

“We pray that this land favours us, that God goes before us, and that our CAF second-leg match ends in victory.

“May grace speak for us, may favour locate us, and may we return home with joy.”

Super Eagles defender Ola Aina is determined to enjoy a successful season with Nottingham Forest under new head coach Oliver Glasner, while admitting he hopes the club can avoid another battle against relegation, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The Nigerian right-back has established himself as an important figure at the City Ground since joining Forest from Italian side Torino in 2023, making 89 appearances across all competitions.

Aina has featured in all four of Forest’s matches this season, including three Premier League fixtures and their Carabao Cup encounter against Leeds United, which ended in a 2-0 defeat and subsequent elimination.

The new campaign has brought another managerial change for Aina, who has now worked under six different permanent managers during his time at the club.

Glasner is the latest coach to take charge after replacing Vitor Pereira, with the former Crystal Palace boss arriving at Forest following a highly successful spell with the London club.

Forest, however, have endured a difficult beginning to the Premier League campaign and remain without a win from their opening three league matches.

Despite the early setback, Aina remains optimistic that the squad can improve as the season progresses.

“It is always good to start a new campaign, but obviously today we fell short. It was too difficult,” Aina said, via Ratings.

“It has been good. Everything is new, not perfect, but we are still working on making these things better. Hopefully, in the games to come, it gets better. Hopefully we do not fight for survival. Hopefully we are safe, and we are doing well in the league. I just want to play good football, do good things, and hopefully we can have a good season.”

Forest finished 16th in the Premier League last season after a late improvement helped them stay clear of relegation, following another campaign characterised by changes in the dugout.

Aina has also had to adjust to life without fellow Nigerian Taiwo Awoniyi, who left Forest during the summer to join newly promoted Coventry City after spending three seasons at the club alongside his international teammate.

The defender revealed that he had personally reached out to Awoniyi following the striker’s departure and expressed his happiness for his former teammate.

“Yeah, I am alone now. I just want to keep playing and enjoying my football. That is the main thing for me,” the 29-year-old said.

“I messaged him personally that day, and it was a personal note I sent to him. I was so happy for him. It is between us, and I hope we can have a good season.”

Aina is expected to be in contention for a starting role when Nottingham Forest travel to Villa Park to face Aston Villa in Saturday’s early Premier League fixture.

The Super Eagles defender will be hoping to help Forest secure their first league victory of the season and begin building momentum under Glasner.

Clinton Morrison believes Taiwo Awoniyi has regained the hunger and sharpness that made him a dangerous Premier League striker and can play a crucial role in Coventry City’s battle to avoid relegation following their return to the top flight, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Awoniyi joined Coventry from Nottingham Forest for a reported £9 million during the summer, with the Nigerian handed the responsibility of leading Frank Lampard’s attack as the club prepares for its first Premier League campaign in 25 years.

The 29-year-old endured a difficult final spell at Forest, with injuries and limited playing opportunities affecting his rhythm and confidence.

Morrison, however, believes the move to Coventry has given the former Union Berlin striker a fresh opportunity to rediscover his best form.

Speaking to GOAL, Morrison said, “He looks much better. He looks hungry.

“He didn’t really play at Forest. It was a bit of a stop-start. He had injuries. And then when you’re not number one and you’re coming off the bench for five minutes here and there, you’re not going to get confidence.

“I think what he’s shown to me at Coventry is that he’s a different player. He looks hungry, runs in behind, he’s causing a lot of problems.

“For me, I think he’ll be a good signing. And for what they’re paying, I think £10-12m, it could be a bargain if he scores the goals to keep them up.”

Awoniyi joined Nottingham Forest in 2022 following the club’s promotion to the Premier League and enjoyed an encouraging debut campaign, scoring 10 league goals.

His progress was subsequently disrupted by injuries, including a serious groin problem suffered in May 2025, which further limited his involvement.

The switch to Coventry has also raised hopes that Awoniyi could work his way back into the Nigeria squad. The striker has earned 10 senior caps but has not featured for the Super Eagles since 2023.

With Victor Osimhen currently occupying the leading striker role for Nigeria, Morrison accepts that a return to the national team will be difficult but believes consistent club football could improve Awoniyi’s chances.

“Of course. Everyone wants to play for their country and wants to play international football. It’s going to be difficult because he’s got one of the best strikers ahead of him, Victor Osimhen. So it’s always going to be hard,” Morrison said.

“But to be involved in and around the squad, that’s what you want to do. It’s a great opportunity.

“Coventry gave him the opportunity to be the main number nine at their club. And I think once he gets that first goal, you get the monkey off your back and you go on a good run. And that’s what he’ll be hoping for.

“The signs I’ve seen so far: he looks hungry, lean and fitter.”

Awoniyi has featured in four matches for Coventry so far this season, scoring once and providing one assist, as he looks to establish himself as a key figure in the club’s Premier League survival campaign.

Nigerian forward David Akintola has completed a move to Cypriot club Omonia Nicosia after leaving English side Hull City as a free agent, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The 30-year-old attacker has signed a two-year contract with the Cypriot outfit, keeping him at the club until 2028.

Akintola arrives with considerable experience from his career in both English and European football and is expected to strengthen Omonia Nicosia’s attacking options ahead of the new campaign.

The Nigerian forward will now begin a fresh chapter of his career in Cyprus, where he will be looking to make an immediate impact and help the club achieve its targets.

His move to Omonia Nicosia also allows Akintola to continue his career at the top level after his spell with Hull City.

Former Rangers goalkeeper Cammy Bell has criticised Super Eagles defender Emmanuel Fernandez after a second-half error nearly exposed Rangers against St Mirren.

Rangers won 1-0, but Fernandez’s decision to attempt an ambitious flick near the halfway line created a dangerous opening for the visitors. He had won possession before trying to find Dujon Sterling with the pass.

St Mirren’s Nikolas Agrafiotis intercepted the ball and immediately set his side on the counter-attack. Sterling stopped the move with a tactical foul and was shown a yellow card.

Bell, working on co-commentary for Rangers TV, said Fernandez needed to show greater discipline and make better choices in possession.

“When you’re a centre-half, you need to make better decisions,” the 39-year-old said, in comments reviewed by Rangers TV.

“These are bad decisions. That flick there. Can’t be doing that.

“He’s an excellent player, but you just cannot do that,” Bell added.

Fernandez also avoided punishment for a controversial first-half challenge on St Mirren’s Ismeal Kabia. Despite those incidents, the defender completed the full 90 minutes and helped Rangers keep a clean sheet.

Rangers eventually secured victory when Bojan Miovski scored the winning goal in the 91st minute.

Fernandez has previously said his difficulties at the start of the season have been caused by brief lapses in concentration. He is working with manager Derek McInnes to address those moments.

Arthur Okonkwo praised Charlton Athletic’s resilience after Nathan Jones’ side held Queens Park Rangers to a goalless draw on Wednesday night.

The result was a significant improvement following last weekend’s 4-0 defeat by Stoke City, with Charlton producing a disciplined defensive display at home.

Goalkeeper Okonkwo played an important part in securing the point, making two impressive saves to preserve his clean sheet against a strong QPR side.

The Nigeria international said Charlton’s players responded well to the demands of a tightly contested match, particularly after their disappointing performance at Stoke.

“We knew it was going to be difficult, but I thought the boys dug in well, especially after last week, and we defended really well,” Okonkwo told the club’s media.

Charlton were frustrated by some decisions during the opening half, according to Okonkwo, but he was pleased with the way the team protected its goal and came away with a point.

“I think we were a bit unfortunate with decisions against us in the first half, but in the end, a clean sheet against a really good side is always good, and we look to Saturday now.”

Okonkwo said Jones had made it clear before kick-off that Charlton needed to respond defensively after conceding four goals against Stoke.

“That was the manager’s message before the game. He wanted to see a reaction from us defensively,” he added.

The goalkeeper acknowledged that decisions had also gone against Charlton in the Stoke match, but said the team could not use that as an explanation for aspects of its defending.

“I think the game against Stoke, we had some decisions against us as well, which set us back, but there’s no excuse for how we defended at times.”

He felt Wednesday’s performance showed a clear improvement, particularly in the way Charlton defended inside their own penalty area.

“Today was a good reaction. We stayed strong, defended our box really well, and we were able to get a clean sheet. Would have liked to have won, but that’s football.”

Charlton now prepare for their next Championship fixture, when they face Portsmouth on Saturday. Jones’ side will aim to build on the defensive organisation that earned them a clean sheet against Queens Park Rangers.

The match came after Charlton confirmed Okonkwo’s call-up for Nigeria’s Super Eagles ahead of their AFCON 2027 qualifying fixtures against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau.

Omonia Nicosia have completed the signing of Nigerian forward David Akintola from Hull City on a free transfer, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The 30-year-old has agreed a two-year contract with the Cyprus-based club, which will keep him at Omonia Nicosia until 2028.

Akintola arrives with experience of playing in both English and European football and is expected to strengthen Omonia Nicosia’s attacking options.

The Nigerian forward will wear the number [jersey number] shirt for his new club.

His move to Cyprus represents the latest stage of Akintola’s career as he begins his time with Omonia Nicosia.