Sports
Osimhen, Ekong Pass Doping Tests As Nigeria, Angola Battle For CAF’s $2.5m Prize
Super Eagles stars Victor Osimhen and William Troost-Ekong have been declared free of illegal substances by the Confederation of African Football’s (CAF) anti-doping body.
This announcement comes as Nigeria and Angola gear up for their highly anticipated quarterfinal clash in the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations.
Following their exceptional performances in the group stage, Osimhen and Ekong were subjected to separate random dope tests by CAF. The aim of these tests is to ensure fair play and maintain the integrity of the tournament by eliminating any presence of illegal substances.
Prior to Osimhen and Ekong, Moses Simon and Ola Aina had also undergone similar tests, highlighting CAF’s commitment to a clean and drug-free competition. With these assurances and preventive measures in place, football fans can rest assured that the Africa Cup of Nations is a level playing field for all teams involved.
However, there is a slight concern regarding Nigeria’s new number one goalkeeper, Stanley Nwabali. The 27-year-old sustained a mild ligament injury during the Round of 16 battle against the Indomitable Lions. The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has revealed that Nwabali will undergo a late fitness test to determine his availability for the quarterfinal clash with Palancas Negras of Angola.
Super Eagles Victor Osimhen celebrating with teammates during their match against Cameroon. Nigeria won 2-0 to book a place for the quarter final in the 2024 African cup of NationsThe NFF remains cautiously optimistic about Nwabali’s chances of participating in the crucial match. The team’s medical staff has been working tirelessly to treat his injury and assess his fitness levels. If Nwabali passes the late fitness test, he could potentially be selected to defend the goal against Angola, adding strength and depth to the Super Eagles’ lineup.
The stakes are high for both Nigeria and Angola as they vie for a spot in the semifinals of the Africa Cup of Nations. Beyond the glory and honor that comes with progressing in the tournament, there is also a significant financial incentive for the victorious team. According to CAF, the winner of the quarterfinal clash between Nigeria and Angola will walk away with a hefty prize of $2.5 million (approximately N2.24 billion).
This substantial cash reward serves as a testament to CAF’s commitment to promoting and developing African football. The prize money breakdown for each stage of the tournament further highlights CAF’s dedication to providing adequate financial support to participating teams. For reaching the second round, the Super Eagles have already secured $800,000. Their victory over Cameroon in the round of 16 earned them an additional $1.3 million. Should they emerge triumphant against Angola, the Super Eagles will add another $2.5 million to their growing prize money tally.
Looking ahead, the ultimate goal for Nigeria is to reach the final of the Africa Cup of Nations. If they achieve this feat, they will be guaranteed a staggering $4 million. However, the true glory lies in being crowned African champions, which would result in a remarkable prize of $7 million.
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The quarterfinal clash between Nigeria and Angola is scheduled to take place on Friday evening. Football enthusiasts and supporters from both nations eagerly anticipate this thrilling encounter, where skill, determination, and fair play will be on full display. As the battle for CAF’s $2.5 million prize intensifies, the stage is set for an unforgettable showdown between two of Africa’s football powerhouses.
The Flying Eagles will come up against the firepower of the Junior Atlas Lions of Morocco after the North Africans fought from a goal down to beat Kenya 3-2 in their Group B game of the 2025 U20 AFCON.
The Flying Eagles have expressed confidence of flying high at the U20 AFCON in Egypt after they opened their campaign with a 1-0 win over Tunisia.
On Thursday, Akwa United youngster Auwal Ibrahim ‘Germany’ was Man of the Match, gave Nigeria the maximum points against the Junior Cartage Eagles, who gave as much as they got from their Nigerian counterparts.
Captain Daniel Bameyi said after the win that they are now looking forward to another win against Morocco on Sunday night.
“It is on to the next game. We hope to win and go top of our group on our way to qualifying for the World Cup and winning the tournament,” the Bayelsa United central defender said.
Flying Eagles coach Aliyu Zubairu said the win over Tunisia is great for team’s confidence.
“The first game of a competition is often difficult and to get the three points was very important,” he said.
“This will help with our confidence. Nigerians should continue to support and pray for the team and we promise not to let them down.”
The Flying Eagles are seeking a record-extending eighth U20 AFCON title in Egypt.
Morocco fell behind to the Rising Stars of Kenya in the second match in Group B, before they rallied back to win despite missing a penalty and losing two players to injury
Othmane Maamma was Man of the Match for Morocco to go top of the standings by virtue of having scored more goals than the Flying Eagles.
The Super Eagles forward will be one of the main transfer attractions when top European clubs whip out their purses for purchases in the summer, Soccernet.ng reports.
Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman is poised for a high-profile summer transfer, with Spanish giants Atlético Madrid among the clubs vying for his signature.
Despite having a contract with Atalanta that runs until June 2027, the Nigerian international is expected to depart Bergamo at the end of the season.
The Serie A club are reportedly willing to sell the 27-year-old if their €60 million (£51.5m) valuation is met, with several European powerhouses monitoring the situation.
According to Spanish outlet Marca via Les-transferts, Atlético Madrid have already opened discussions with Lookman’s representatives.
While Diego Simeone’s side reportedly believes Atalanta’s asking price is steep, they are seriously considering a move after being impressed by Lookman’s prolific campaign.
An all-English Europa League final is looming after Manchester United defeated Athletic Bilbao 3-0 and Tottenham Hotspur prevailed 3-1 against Bodø/Glimt on Thursday.
Casemiro’s header and Bruno Fernandes’ brace led United to a dominant victory in Spain, leaving them in a comfortable position for the semi-final return leg next Thursday at their Old Trafford stadium.
Bilbao were down to 10 men in the 35th minute as Dani Vivian was sent off for pulling back Rasmus Hojlund in the box.
The foul resulted in a penalty converted by Fernandes for his first goal.
Tottenham also didn’t have trouble to take the home win against Bodø/Glimt.
First-half goals from Brennan Johnson and James Maddison secured them a 2-0 lead and Dominic Solanke added a third from the spot after the break.
Ulrik Saltnes’ late goal, however, will keep Bodø/Glimt’s hopes of a comeback alive for the second leg at home.
United have won the Europa League once, in 2017, while Tottenham have won the trophy twice when the competition was known as UEFA Cup.(NAN)