New Post Africa

Category: Sports

  • Onigbinde, first Super Eagles indigenous coach, dies at 88

    Onigbinde, first Super Eagles indigenous coach, dies at 88

    SPORTS (NPA) —March 10, 2026—Nigeria has lost one of its greatest football icons, Chief Festus Adegboye Onigbinde, the first indigenous coach of the Super Eagles. He passed away on Monday at the age of 88, just days after celebrating his birthday on March 5. His death was confirmed in a family statement issued by Mrs. Bolade Adesuyi, who described him as a devoted father, husband, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, as well as a towering figure in Nigerian and global football.

    Onigbinde’s coaching career spanned decades, marked by discipline, tactical brilliance, and a commitment to youth development. He first managed the then Green Eagles between 1982 and 1984, guiding Nigeria to the final of the 1984 Africa Cup of Nations, where they finished runners-up after losing 3–1 to Cameroon. That same year, he also led Shooting Stars Sports Club (IICC) of Ibadan to the final of the African Cup of Champions Clubs, narrowly losing to Egypt’s Zamalek.

    Nearly two decades later, Onigbinde returned to the national team in 2002, replacing the late Shuaibu Amodu. He became the first indigenous coach to lead Nigeria to the FIFA World Cup, taking charge of the Super Eagles at the tournament in South Korea and Japan. Despite Nigeria’s early exit after defeats to Argentina and Sweden and a draw with England, his appointment marked a historic milestone in Nigerian football.

    Beyond his national team duties, Onigbinde served as Special Adviser on Football to the Osun State Government and remained an influential voice in football administration. Known for his forthright views, he often criticized maladministration in Nigerian sports, urging reforms to strengthen the country’s footballing structures.

    Tributes have poured in for the Modakeke High Chief, with many hailing his contributions to the game and his role in shaping Nigerian football. Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the family in due course.

    Chief Festus Adegboye Onigbinde leaves behind a legacy of excellence, resilience, and dedication to the sport he loved. His passing marks the end of an era, but his impact on Nigerian football will endure for generations. 

  • Trump urges Australia to grant asylum to Iranian women’s soccer team or send them to US

    Trump urges Australia to grant asylum to Iranian women’s soccer team or send them to US

    Washington, D.C., US — March 9, 2026 — U.S. President Donald Trump has called on Australian authorities not to force the Iranian women’s national soccer team to return to Tehran after the players refused to sing the national anthem during a recent match, as war rages back home.

    In a statement on his Truth Social account, Trump warned that sending the team back would be a grave mistake. “Australia is making a terrible humanitarian mistake by allowing the Iran National Woman’s Soccer team to be forced back to Iran, where they will most likely be killed. Don’t do it, Mr Prime Minister, give ASYLUM. The U.S. will take them if you won’t,” he wrote.

    Trump urged Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to grant the players asylum, while declaring America’s readiness to accept them if Australia declines.

    The Iranian women’s team faces serious risks in Tehran after their silent protest. State media has branded them “wartime traitors,” raising fears of persecution, imprisonment, or worse. Several players have already sought asylum in Australia, while international voices continue to press for their protection.

    Iranian state television and conservative commentators have accused the players of treason, intensifying concerns about their safety should they be forced to return.

  • Injured Ronaldo sends good wishes to Al-Nassr ahead of Neom SC clash

    Injured Ronaldo sends good wishes to Al-Nassr ahead of Neom SC clash

    SPORTS (NPA) — March 7, 2026 — Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo, forward for Al-Nassr Football Club, has extended his best wishes to his teammates as they face Neom SC in the Saudi Pro League today. The match kicks off at 20:00 local time at Al-Awwal Park Stadium in Riyadh.

    Ronaldo, who sustained a hamstring injury on March 2 during Al-Nassr’s 3–1 win over Al-Fayha, was substituted in the 80th minute after signalling discomfort. On his official X account, he posted: “Recovering and ready to watch the game today. Let’s go, Al Nassr! 🟡🔵.” The message was accompanied by a photo of him undergoing treatment.

    Following medical assessments, the injury was confirmed to be more serious than initially thought, requiring rehabilitation in Madrid. However, reports indicate his participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup with Portugal remains unaffected.

    As of the time of publication, it is still uncertain when Ronaldo will return to action for Al-Nassr.

  • Arsenal Eye Crucial Win Against Chelsea to Keep Title Hopes Alive

    Arsenal Eye Crucial Win Against Chelsea to Keep Title Hopes Alive

    NEWPOST AFRICA SPORTS: Arsenal head into Sunday’s London derby knowing victory over Chelsea is vital to maintain their lead over Manchester City in the Premier League title race.

    The Gunners, who last beat Chelsea three times in a single season during their 2003–04 title-winning campaign, have shown both resilience and vulnerability this term. After dropping points in consecutive draws against Brentford and Wolves, Mikel Arteta’s side bounced back with a commanding 4–1 win over Tottenham last weekend.

    City remain five points behind with a game in hand and face Leeds, a side that nearly held them earlier in the season. Anything less than three points for Arsenal could tighten the race at the top.

    Chelsea, unbeaten under new manager Liam Rosenior except against Arsenal, will be eager to avoid a third defeat to their rivals this season. Despite losing twice in the League Cup semifinals, they managed a league draw in November despite playing with ten men.

    Arteta insists past results mean little: “Every game is different. We know the importance of this match and we must prepare to earn the right to win,” he said. 

    He praised Chelsea’s adaptability under Rosenior, noting Arsenal must be ready for tactical shifts.

    With Arsenal’s recent struggles against top-six opponents at home, Sunday’s clash promises to be a defining moment in the title race.

  • Cristiano Ronaldo Acquires 25% Stake in a Spanish Club

    Cristiano Ronaldo Acquires 25% Stake in a Spanish Club

    MADRID, Spain (NPA) — Portuguese football legend Cristiano Ronaldo has purchased a 25 percent ownership stake in Spanish second-division side UD Almería, marking a significant step into football investment as he nears the twilight of his playing career.

    Ronaldo, captain of Portugal and currently playing for Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr, made the acquisition through his company, CR7 Sports Investments. The deal was announced Thursday morning.

    “It has been a longtime ambition of mine to contribute to football beyond the pitch,” Ronaldo said in a statement. “UD Almería is a Spanish club with strong foundations and clear potential for growth. I look forward to working alongside the leadership team to support the club’s next phase of development.”

    The 41-year-old forward, named a billionaire by Forbes last year, has long hinted at expanding his influence in football management and ownership. Analysts see the move as a prelude to his post-playing years, positioning him for a future role in shaping the sport off the field.

  • Newpost Africa Relaunches, Reaffirms Commitment to World-Class Journalism

    Newpost Africa Relaunches, Reaffirms Commitment to World-Class Journalism

    LAGOS, NIGERIA (NPA): Nigerian media organisation Newpost Africa Media Publishing® (Newpost Africa) has announced its return following a successful restructuring process. The relaunch underscores the company’s renewed commitment to delivering journalism of the highest standards—anchored in integrity, balance, and diversity.

    Positioning itself as “Nigeria’s independent, world-class media organisation”, Newpost Africa emphasized its founding principles of strict editorial neutrality, an uncompromising stance against propaganda, and reporting that informs without bias or distortion. The organisation stressed that credible journalism is indispensable to democratic societies and informed citizenship.

    In a statement issued on February 22, 2026, Newpost Africa encouraged stakeholders and readers to actively engage with its mission. “By sharing perspectives and experiences, you contribute to a platform that values truth, dialogue, and collective responsibility in shaping the public record,” the statement read.

    Driven by a team of seasoned professionals and supported by a global network of journalists and writers, Newpost Africa said it is well-positioned to deliver timely coverage of rapidly evolving stories with speed, clarity, and analytical depth—while maintaining accuracy and editorial discipline.

    Its editorial focus remains firmly on Nigeria and the African continent, ensuring accountability from policymakers, institutions, and power brokers. At the same time, the organisation pledged to continue reporting on international developments that shape Africa’s place in the global context.

    The relaunch, according to the statement, is not merely a return but a reaffirmation of purpose and a strategic commitment to excellence in journalism. “This relaunch is a reaffirmation of our mission to uphold the highest standards of journalism and to serve as a trusted voice in Nigeria, Africa, and beyond,” the organisation noted.

  • Ebonyi Sports Council Partners SWAN on Sports Development

    Ebonyi Sports Council Partners SWAN on Sports Development

    EBONYI STATE, NIGERIA (Agency Report): The Ebonyi sports council has pledged to collaborate with the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria, Ebonyi chapter on development in the state.

    The Ebonyi sports council has pledged to collaborate with the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria, Ebonyi chapter on development in the state.

    The acting director of sports, Alep David made the pledge on Thursday when the state leadership of SWAN paid him a visit in Abakaliki.

    Mr David said that the sporting successes recorded by the state cannot be mentioned without SWAN’s contribution as his leadership would leverage on their contributions.

    “Your contributions in promoting sporting policies and activities in Ebonyi cannot be overlooked and this attests to the attention you are presently receiving from the state government.

    “You played critical roles in the resurgence of football in Ebonyi through the Abakaliki Football Club. This club shocked the soccer world by winning silver in the President Federation Cup in its year of formation,” he said.

    He commended the association for its commitment to promote cricket which has become the sport the state has its highest comparative advantage.

    “Cricket is firmly rooted in the state, being the sport which guarantees medals during regional and national sports events.

    “Such was the guarantee hockey gave the state in the past but cricket has duly taken over. The sports council will collaborate with you to ensure a successful zonal cricket championship which you are planning to organise.,” he said.

    The chairman of SWAN in Ebonyi, Ndubuisi Nwogha, thanked the director for the warm reception, affirming that the association would collaborate with his leadership to achieve overall sporting successes.

    “We have been duly motivated to work with the sports council in effective reportage of sports in the state.

    “We appeal that you expedite action in ensuring that the office allotted to SWAN is given to us immediately,” said Mr Nwogha.

    A former chairman of SWAN, Chukwuemeka Opara, who heads the local organising committee for the zonal cricket championship, said it would commence in April.

    “We are determined to host the best cricket championship in the state and call for the collaboration of all to ensure its success,” he said.

  • Kenyan Parliament Vets Ida Betty Odinga for UNEP Permanent Representative Role

    Kenyan Parliament Vets Ida Betty Odinga for UNEP Permanent Representative Role

    NAIROBI, KENYA (NPA): The Kenyan Parliament on Friday conducted a vetting session for Ida Betty Odinga, widow of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, following her nomination by President William Ruto as Kenya’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).

    The National Assembly Committee on Defence, Intelligence and Foreign Relations assessed her competencies, qualifications, and experience, as well as her ability to advance Kenya’s interests in global environmental diplomacy. The 75-year-old pledged to champion equitable climate financing, strengthen international cooperation, and amplify African voices in shaping global environmental policy. She also outlined plans to diversify funding streams by engaging the private sector and philanthropic partners to sustain UNEP programmes amid declining donor support.

    Raila Odinga, one of Kenya’s most influential political figures, served as Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013 and contested the presidency multiple times between 1997 and 2022. He was widely recognized for his role in advancing constitutional reforms, multiparty democracy, and infrastructure development across Africa, including his tenure as the African Union’s High Representative for Infrastructure Development.

    Odinga passed away on October 15, 2025, at the age of 80 in Kerala, India, after suffering a heart attack, according to agency reports.

  • Real Madrid Beat Benfica 1–0 to Keep Round of 16 Hopes Alive

    Real Madrid Beat Benfica 1–0 to Keep Round of 16 Hopes Alive

    Spanish giants Real Madrid secured a crucial 1–0 victory over Benfica on Tuesday night in Lisbon, taking a valuable first-leg advantage in their UEFA Champions League knockout play-off. The high-intensity clash at Estadio da Luz drew over 66,000 fans, who witnessed Vinícius Júnior break the deadlock in the 50th minute with a superb strike from outside the box.

    Real Madrid controlled possession with 56% and looked more composed in midfield, while Benfica struggled to convert their attacking opportunities into clear chances.

    The match, however, was overshadowed by controversy. Vinícius Júnior alleged that he was subjected to racist abuse from Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni, prompting a 10-minute stoppage as the referee implemented UEFA’s anti-racism protocols. The incident cast a shadow over what was otherwise a fiercely contested encounter. Benfica’s manager, José Mourinho, was shown a red card after an outburst defending his player, leaving questions over whether UEFA will uphold or overturn the sanction.

    Real Madrid’s defence displayed discipline and resilience, repelling Benfica’s late pressure and ensuring the narrow lead was preserved. The Portuguese side had previously denied Los Blancos automatic qualification in the group stage, forcing them into this play-off. With the result, Real Madrid head into the second leg at Santiago Bernabéu on February 24–25, 2026, with momentum and a strong chance of progressing to the round of 16 in Europe’s elite competition.

  • Real Madrid Face Benfica in Champions League Knockout Play-Off First Leg

    Real Madrid Face Benfica in Champions League Knockout Play-Off First Leg

    Spanish giants, Real Madrid, have assembled their strongest squad for tonight’s crucial UEFA Champions League knockout phase play-off first leg against Benfica at the Estádio da Luz in Lisbon. Kick-off is scheduled for 21:00 CET (20:00 WAT).

    Benfica enter the tie with mixed form, recording three wins and five losses in recent fixtures, while Real Madrid boasts a stronger run of five wins and three losses. Statistical forecasts favour Madrid with a 49.8% chance of victory, compared to Benfica’s 25.8%, leaving room for a potential draw.

    Real Madrid’s squad list, released on Monday, confirms Thibaut Courtois as the starting goalkeeper, supported by Andriy Lunin and Fran González. In defence, Dani Carvajal leads alongside David Alaba, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Alejandro Carreras, Fran García, Antonio Rüdiger, Ferland Mendy, Yorel Huijsen, and Joan Martínez.

    The midfield features a dynamic mix of Eduardo Camavinga, Federico Valverde, Aurélien Tchouaméni, Arda Güler, Dani Ceballos, and Thiago Cestero, tasked with supplying the forward line. Up front, Real Madrid will rely on their prolific scorer Kylian Mbappé, supported by Vinícius Júnior, Gonzalo García, Brahim Díaz, and Claudio Echeverri Mastantuono.

    This highly anticipated clash pits 15-time European champions Real Madrid against two-time winners Benfica, making it one of the standout fixtures of the round.