History Calls: Calabar Set to Roar Pelican Stars Back to the NWFL

Ukorebi Esien  | July 15, 2026

CALABAR — History beckons at the U.J. Esuene Stadium Today as Pelican Stars Football Club stand just 90 minutes away from reclaiming their place in the Nigeria Women's Football League (NWFL), with football stakeholders and supporters urging a massive turnout to inspire the team to victory.

For a club that once dominated women's football in Nigeria and produced some of the country's finest talents, Thursday's encounter is more than another football match. It is an opportunity to end over a decade outside the top flight and begin a new chapter in one of Cross River State's most celebrated sporting stories.

As anticipation builds across the state, football enthusiasts, former players, youth groups, students, traders and sports lovers have been called upon to fill the Calabar Stadium and create the atmosphere needed to drive the team to success.

Describing the fixture as a defining moment for the club, management said the players would need the backing of their home fans to overcome the final hurdle in their quest for promotion.

The significance of the match extends beyond the result on the pitch. A return to the NWFL would restore one of Nigeria's traditional women's football powerhouses to elite competition while opening fresh opportunities for young female footballers in Cross River State to showcase their talents at the highest level.

Pelican Stars, renowned for their rich history and contribution to women's football development, have remained a symbol of pride for Cross River despite years away from the top division. Promotion would represent not only a sporting achievement but also the revival of a legacy that has inspired generations of footballers.

With kickoff scheduled for 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 16, supporters are expected to converge on the Calabar Stadium, where every cheer, chant and show of solidarity could prove decisive in the team's promotion bid.

As the countdown reaches its final hours, the message across Cross River is clear: history is calling, and Pelican Stars need the voices of their fans to answer.

Should the team secure victory, it would mark the end of a long wait and signal the return of one of Nigeria's most respected women's football clubs to the country's elite league.

Canaan Table Tennis Club shines at Niger Delta Sports Festival, Boost C'River Standing on the Medals Table

 

Canaan Table Tennis Club contingent at the 
Recently held Niger Delta Sports Festival in Uyo

Ukorebi Esien | 6th April 2025

CALABAR — Cross River and Bayelsa states emerged as joint champions at the recent regional table tennis championship, with both powerhouses securing two gold medals each in a thrilling display of skills and competition.  

Cross River maintained its traditional dominance in women's events, claiming Gold in Women's Doubles while Bayelsa secured the Silver medel, Delta went for the Bronze. In the same feat, Cross River State secured Gold in Women's Singles with Abia and Ondo clinching Silver and  Bronze respectively. 

In the men's category, Bayelsa countered with equal prowess clinging two Golds in 

Men's Doubles and Single. Cross River went for Silver in the Men's Double with Edo securing  Bronze. In the Men's Single, Ondo clinched Gold and Akwa Ibom secured Bronze 

The tournament  coincided with  the 35 years Anniversary celebration of the club.

In his remarks the chairman of the club and Cross River State representative in the  NDDC board, Rt. Hon. Orok Otu Duke PhD, took the opportunity to celebrate the Canaan Table Tennis Team's unprecedented achievement of winning gold medals for the state for 35 consecutive years - the only team to maintain such consistent excellence.  

"This golden generation of Canaan players have written their names in history," Duke stated. "For 35 years, through three generations of athletes, they've brought nothing but gold to Cross River. This is no accident - it's the result of dedication, proper training, and Institutional support."  

He pledged his continued backing for the program: "I charge our champions to keep making us proud. The NDDC and Cross River state will continue to invest in these athletes who have become our golden ambassadors."  

C’River Canaan Queens to Represent Nigeria at 2025 African Club Table Tennis Championships in Tunisia

CALABAR - Canaan Queens, the women's team of Canaan Table Tennis Club, Calabar, have been approved by the Nigerian Table Tennis Federation (NTTF) to represent Nigeria at the 2025 African Club Table Tennis Championships. The tournament will take place from February 22 to 24, 2025, in Tunis, Tunisia.

This approval follows Canaan Queens' remarkable performance at the 2024 African Club Table Tennis Championships held in Benghazi, Libya, where they emerged as runners-up. The team showcased their skills by defeating top clubs like Benghazi Al-Jadida Table Tennis Club of Libya and Commercial Bank Club of Ethiopia, before falling to Petrojet Table Tennis Club of Egypt in the finals. Their achievements in Libya underscored their status as one of Africa's leading table tennis teams.

In a statement issued by NTTF Secretary-General Oladayo Abulude, the federation confirmed that Canaan Queens would bear responsibility for their travel visas, flight tickets, and accommodation for the tournament. The club has also been advised to complete their registration promptly to avoid penalties for non-appearance, as stipulated by the championship organizers.

The 2025 tournament, organized by the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) Africa and hosted by the Tunisian Table Tennis Federation, will feature top teams from across the continent. The competition will take place at the Palais des Sports El Menzah, with both men's and women's team events structured in group and knockout formats.

Speaking on the team's preparation, Rt. Hon. Orok Duke, Chairman of Canaan Table Tennis Club, expressed confidence in the team's ability to excel in Tunisia. "We are proud to represent Nigeria again on the continental stage. Our focus is on improving our performance and making the nation proud," he said.

The Canaan Queens' participation in the Tunis championship further cements their growing reputation as a force to be reckoned with in African table tennis. Their remarkable journey has drawn praise from sports enthusiasts and officials alike, including Cross River State Governor, Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu, who has consistently lauded the club's efforts in promoting sports excellence.

As the 2025 African Club Table Tennis Championships draw closer, the Canaan Queens are poised to leverage their past successes to elevate Nigeria's standing in international table tennis. Fans and stakeholders eagerly anticipate another outstanding performance from the team.

'You Made Nigeria Proud', Enoh Congratulates Canaan Queens for Outstanding Performance at ATTCC

Ukorebi Esien | 7th July 2024

Minister for Sports, Owan Enoh, has extended his heartfelt congratulations to the Canaan Queens of the Canaan Table Tennis Club, Calabar, for their impressive performance at the just concluded African Table Tennis Club Championship, ATTCC in Benghazi, Libya. 

Enoh who as at the time of the tournament was attending a sports meet in Cameroon, took the time to recognize the team's achievements and convey his pride in their representation of Nigeria on the international stage, said the Queens made the nation proud. 

In a phone call made through the club's chairman, Chief Orok Duke, Minister Enoh praised the Canaan Queens for their dedication, skill, and sportsmanship, which led them to secure second place in the prestigious tournament. He emphasized that their effort and commitment have made Nigeria proud, adding that their crucial role in elevating the country's status in the sport of table tennis is priceless. 

The Minister of Sports expressed his admiration for the leadership of Chief Orok Duke and the entire Canaan Table Tennis Club, acknowledging their significant contribution to the development of table tennis in Nigeria, particularly in the women's category, while assuring the Canaan Queens of continued backing from the Ministry of Sports, encouraging them to build on their success and strive for even greater heights in future competitions.

The Canaan Queens, who were lost 0-3 to Petrojet Table Tennis Club of Egypt in the final match, have garnered widespread acclaim for their journey to the finals. Their path to the runner-up position included a decisive 3-0 victory against the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia Table Tennis Club in the semi-finals, showcasing their prowess and competitive spirit.

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The Canaan Queens' remarkable performance in Benghazi has not only brought glory to Nigeria but also highlighted the potential and determination of Nigerian athletes. As they return home, they carry with them the pride and admiration of the nation, ready to inspire the next generation of sports enthusiasts and champions.

Governor Bassey Edet Otu Commends Canaan Queens for Securing Second Place at African Table Tennis Club Championship

Governor Bassey Edet Otu 

Ukorebi Esien

The Canaan Queens of the Canaan Table Tennis Club, Calabar, have emerged as the runners-up in the ongoing African Table Tennis Club Championship in Benghazi, Libya. The team, representing Nigeria, put up a valiant effort but were defeated 0-3 by Petrojet Table Tennis Club of Egypt in the final match held earlier today.

Governor Bassey Edet Otu of Cross River State extended his heartfelt commendations to the Canaan Queens through a visual call, applauding their outstanding performance and resilience throughout the tournament. He expressed pride in their achievements, commending how their journey to the finals has brought immense pride to both the state and the nation.

The Canaan Table Tennis Club, founded by seasoned sports administrator Rt. Hon. Orok Duke, has been a pillar of support for Nigeria's Table Tennis Federation, especially in the women's category. Their consistent representation of Nigeria in major international competitions underscores their commitment to excellence and development of the sport.

Despite the loss in the final, the Canaan Queens' path to securing the second place was marked by impressive victories, including a decisive 3-0 win against the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia Table Tennis Club in the semi-finals. Their performance has not only highlighted their individual talents but also demonstrated the strength and potential of Nigerian table tennis on the continental stage.

Governor Otu praised the team's dedication and the leadership of Rt. Hon. Orok Duke, emphasizing how their efforts have significantly contributed to the growth and recognition of table tennis in Nigeria. He assured continued support for the club and urged them to remain steadfast in their pursuit of excellence.

The Canaan Queens' remarkable achievement in Benghazi stands as a testament to their hard work, strategic prowess, and the unyielding spirit of Nigerian athletes. As they return home with their well-deserved silver medals, they carry the hopes and pride of a grateful nation, ready to build on this success in future competitions.

Canaan Queens Secure Spot in Finals at African Table Tennis Club Championship

Ukorebi Esien 

Canaan Queens of the Canaan Table Tennis Club in Calabar have qualified for the final round of the ongoing African Table Tennis Club Championship in Benghazi, Libya. The Nigerian representatives advanced to the finals after a decisive 3-0 victory against the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia Table Tennis Club in the women's semi-finals on June 26, 2024.

Canaan Table Tennis Club of Calabar, founded by Cross River's seasoned sports administrator and veteran, Rt. Hon. Orok Duke, has consistently demonstrated excellence and a high competitive spirit. Throughout the championship, they have maintained an unbeaten record, showcasing their dominance and skill in the sport.

The club will face a formidable opponent, Petrojet Table Tennis Club of Egypt, in the final on Thursday, June 27, 2024, at 10:00 AM Nigerian time. This highly anticipated match will be held in the city of Benghazi, Libya.

Canaan Table Tennis Club has been a strong support base for Nigeria's Table Tennis Federation, particularly in the women's category. Over the years, the club has been instrumental in nurturing talent and providing a platform for female athletes to compete at the highest levels. Their dedication and commitment have seen them represent Nigeria in numerous major international competitions, earning accolades and bringing recognition to the country.

The achievements of Canaan Table Tennis Club go beyond this tournament. They have a legacy of developing world-class players who have competed and excelled in various continental and global championships. Their success is a testament to the hard work and vision of Rt. Hon. Orok Duke, whose leadership has been pivotal in elevating the status of table tennis in Nigeria.

As the Canaan Queens prepare for their final match, they carry the hopes and pride of their nation. Their journey in the African Table Tennis Club Championship not only highlights their individual prowess but also underscores the strength and potential of Nigerian table tennis on the international stage.

Offiong Edem Leads Canaan Queens to Represent Nigeria at African Club Table Tennis Championship

Offiong Edem 

Offiong Edem  Wil be leading the charge for the Canaan Queens, a renowned table tennis club from Calabar, as they proudly represent Nigeria at the 2024 African Club Table Tennis Championship. Taking place in Benghazi, Libya, this prestigious tournament not only highlights top African talent but also serves as a key qualifier for the World Club Championship.

The Canaan Queens, under the leadership of Chief Orok Duke, the chairman of the Canaan Table Tennis Club, arrived in Benghazi on Monday. They are set to face the Libyan team in a high-stakes quarterfinal match scheduled for 5 PM Nigerian time. The Nigerian table tennis community is rallying behind the Canaan Queens, hoping for a stellar performance.

In an official correspondence addressed to the President of the Nigeria Table Tennis Federation (NTTF), Ishaku Tikon, the Canaan Table Tennis Club confirmed their acceptance and readiness to represent Nigeria. The letter, signed by Chief Orok Duke, expressed the club's enthusiasm and preparedness for the competition.

The communication read in part:

"Dear President Ishaku Tikon (NTTF),

"With reference to your letter conveying your approval for the nomination of Canaan Table Tennis Club of Calabar to represent Nigeria in the 2024 African Clubs Table Tennis Championship in Libya from 25th – 27th June 2024 in the Female Category (vide letter; NTTF/02/PD/VOL.11/06, dated 4th June 2024), we write to inform you of our acceptance and readiness to represent Nigeria in the above-named Competition (in the Female Category)."

The team roster includes notable players such as Offiong Edem, Fatima Bello, Cecilia Offiong, Idongesit Udoka, and Vivian Oku. The delegation is also composed of officials: Orok Otu Duke (Chairman), Effiowan Ntiero (Secretary), Anthony Essien (Admin), and Richard Edem (Coach).

Offiong Edem and Cecilia Offiong are well-known figures in Nigerian table tennis. Offiong Edem, a seasoned player, has represented Nigeria in multiple international tournaments, including the Olympics and the Commonwealth Games. Her agility, precision, and strategic gameplay have earned her several medals and a prominent place in the sport. Cecilia Offiong, equally accomplished, has a rich history of victories in continental championships and has been a pivotal player in Nigeria's successes on the African table tennis scene. Her experience and leadership are invaluable assets to the Canaan Queens.

As the tournament progresses, all eyes are on the Canaan Queens, led by these two stalwarts, as they strive to secure their place in the World Club Championship.

C'River Table Tennis Association partner's SWAN to curb Youth Restiveness, splashes #150,000

 

Patrick Abang | 29th December 2022

As part of efforts to curb youths' Restiveness in Calabar municipal council and its environ, the Cross River State Table Tennis Association in partnership with Sports Writers Association (SWAN) Cross River State Chapter is organising a two-day Table Tennis Challenge for youths, Veterans, and Media practitioners across the state.

In a statement issued by the Vice Chairman of Cross River Table Tennis Association Usen Umoh on Wednesday  disclosed that the 

Objective- is to  popularise the game

encourage everyone to play table tennis for physical well-being and to encourage sports-loving individuals/members of the organised private  sector to invest in sports as part of their corporate social responsibility- CSR 

The statement noted that  "We are trying to contribute our  quota in other to  curb youth restiveness and reduce unemployment  in the state and country at large"

'In that direction, we are giving out one hundred and fifty thousand as prize money for this  competition"

"The Calabar table tennis Challenge is sponsored by the table tennis family in Cross River State in partnership with SWAN"

The Calabar Table Tennis challenge will be between 30 -31st December  2022 and the 

Venue table Tennis sports Hall U.J. Esuene Stadium the statement added.

The Chief Coach of the state Table Table Tennis Team Richard Edem assured that the two-day event will be memorable aside from popularising the game as part of end-of-year activities to develop some new talent.

May & Frank FC Holds Benedi FC to a 1-1 Draw in Calabar

May and Frank Akpo FC in a group photograph after the Match 

As the National League One Division 3 competition kicks off, the May and Frank Foundation FC yesterday held down visiting Bendedi FC to a one all draw in a thrilling fancy football game which left fans excited. 

The match which was the first ever Professional match for the May and Frank Foundation Football Club saw the host team bow down to a lone goal from the visitors that came in during the added minutes of the first 45 minutes of the game. 

The second half had barely started when the forward left winger of the MFAF FC with jessy number 6, Ojong took a tantalising free kick few yards outside the 18 box straight in to the left top angle of the net. Balancing the scores at 48th minutes of the match. 

Both team played fair and thrilling football missing several attempts to take the lead. 

Finally after 90 minutes of play the match game to end with both team sharing points. 

Speaking with TDN at the end of the game, Chairman of May and Frank Akpo Youth and Child Foundation owners of MFAF FC said the boys expressed top-notch football artistry being their first professional match and playing against an older team, he expressed satisfaction in the gameplay of the boys. 

Akpo informed that the main essence of the foundation is to correct the ills and miss normal in the society while empowering young people to fully express their potentials. He said the Foundation went into sports to give young people the platform utilise their potential. 

The match captain for MFAF FC, Offiong Francis said the team played well even without training as a team for a long period. For him it was a good game. He said he is optimistic that the team although new will come out top of the league to qualify for promotion to division 2.

Mohamed Salah Signs New Deal With Liverpool FC.

Mohamed Salah

Mohamed Salah signs three-year extension at Anfield; Forward's previous contract was due to expire at the end of next season; FWA Footballer of the Year and the PFA Players' Player of the Year for 2021/22, Salah has scored 156 goals in 254 appearances so far in his Anfield career.

The Egyptian's previous contract was due to expire next summer. His new terms, in excess of £350,000 a week, makes him the highest-paid player in the club's history.

The deal still fits into the club's sustainable wage structure and is incentivised with scoring bonuses.

"I feel great and [I am] excited to win trophies with the club. It's a happy day for everyone," Salah said.

"It takes a little bit of time, I think, to renew, but now everything is done so we just need to focus on what's next.

"I think you can see in the last five or six years the team was always going [upwards]. Last season we were close to winning four, but unfortunately in the last week of the season we lost two trophies.

"I think we are in a good position to fight for everything. We have new signings as well. We just need to keep working hard, have a good vision, be positive and go for everything again."

Abramovich Disqualified As Chelsea Director By Premier League

Abramovich, embattled owner of Chelsea

Roman Abramovich has been disqualified as a Chelsea director by the Premier League board after the British government sanctioned the Russian billionaire.

Chelsea owner Abramovich was one of seven more oligarchs sanctioned this week by the UK following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

The European champions have been placed under tough restrictions due to the sanctions on Abramovich.

Chelsea are unable to sign players, renew contracts or sell tickets to matches, with limits on the amount of money they are allowed to spend on travel to away games.

Now Premier League chiefs have taken action against Abramovich, who is described by the government as part of Russian President Vladimir Putin's inner circle despite his denials of any association.

"Following the imposition of sanctions by the UK Government, the Premier League board has disqualified Roman Abramovich as a director of Chelsea Football Club," a Premier League statement said on Saturday.

"The board's decision does not impact on the club's ability to train and play its fixtures, as set out under the terms of a license issued by the Government, which expires on May 31 2022."

Abramovich had already announced his intention to sell Chelsea, with a host of potential buyers declaring their interest in a club that have won 19 major trophies since he bought the side in 2003.

The government is still open to a sale but would have to approve a new licence, on the proviso no profit would go to the Russian, who has bankrolled the club to the tune of around £1.5 billion ($2 billion).

Chelsea are already feeling the impact of the sanctions, with shirt sponsor Three suspending its £40 million deal.

The club's official training wear partner Trivago said Friday that it was sticking with Chelsea despite the "challenging" situation.

Chelsea reportedly saw several credit cards temporarily frozen on Friday while they negotiate the terms of their special operating license with the government.

Thomas Tuchel's side host Newcastle on Sunday as they look to cement their hold on third place in the Premier League.

AFP

Fans drags Okoye over eagle's defeat

Asuquo Cletus Felix

Many Nigerian Fans on Sunday blamed newly signed Watford goalkeeper, Maduka Okoye, for his performance in Nigeria's exit at the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations in Cameroon.

The Super Eagles suffered a 1-0 defeat to Tunisia to crash out of the AFCON tournament.

Okoye failed to save Youssef Msakni's long-range strike tow minutes after the restart as the Carthage Eagles booked a place in the quarter-finals of the tournament at the expense of Nigeria, who were tagged favourites ahead of the encounter.

Outrage over his performance, Nigerians immediately took to social media to blame the goalkeeper, who they believed should have done better with Msakni's shot.

A Twitter user with the name FunkeAkin wrote, "Maduka Okoye or whatever he is called should please go back to his fashion business, we are done!"

With a photograph of former Nigeria goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama, Max-Well, tweeted, "The legend we miss."

Callmesammylex echoed the opinion of Max-Well posting a picture of Enyeama with the caption, "The guy I'll always miss and remember as a Nigeria goalkeeper."

 

Another Twiter user Olagbegi Star-struck said, "This guy reminds me of Victor Valdes of FC Barcelona then. Fine USELESS boy on the pitch."

Lukayo jokingly added, "This is the reason why Okoye could not keep that shot. Why Buhari go collect this jersey, video conference never dey enough."

Nnadi simply wrote, "Okoye too sexy for the shot."

Iam_Sannwalaw added, "Hello make una tell Okoye say I no wan see am for this Nigeria again."

AFCON: Buhari urge Nigerians not to write eagles off

Asuquo Cletus Felix

President Muhammadu Buhari on Monday said Nigerians should not write off the super Eagles team and it's officials.

 

Buhari speech is coming 24 hours following Sunday's 1-0 ouster of Nigeria by Tunisia in the ongoing African Cup of Nations in Garoua, Cameroon.

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Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu, disclosed this in a statement he signed late Monday titled 'Don't write off Super Eagles, pleads President Buhari'.

According to Buhari, although the team did not live up to Nigerians' expectations in the tournament, both officials and players deserve commendation for the tough fight they put up.

The President argued that the Super Eagles "Gave everyone the confidence that they were up to it, and I am sure it was something they could have achieved. Nonetheless, we should not write them off."

He urged Nigerians to encourage the players to do better next time, especially in view of the World Cup qualification matches that have been lined up for them.

Buhari, therefore, directed the football authorities in the country to undertake a critical assessment on the Eagles' performance at the Cup of Nations tournament and encouraged the general public to send their suggestions to the Nigeria Football Federation so that it will reflect and plan well for a better outing in the forthcoming World Cup competition.

Super Eagles Coach, Bans NFF President from Dressing Room

Asuquo Cletus Felix

 

The President of the Nigeria Football Federation, Amaju Pinnick, and other dignitaries have been barred from the Super Eagles' dressing room during half-time breaks.

Super Eagles coach Austin Eguavoen, made the announcement  at a press conference, he said  the decision was taken to prevent the players from losing concentration.

Though Pinnick was in the Super Eagles' dressing room at halftime to motivate them during the encounters against Egypt and Sudan, Eguavoen said the NFF president and other guests will no longer be allowed in Sunday's Round of 16 clash against Tunisia.

The coach explained that the half-time break is needed for the players and coaches to discuss tactics.

He said, "We talked about timing and I am still talking about it. It's our culture – motivation is good.

"Guests can have short discussions with the team at the restaurant and not inside the dressing room.

"Against Egypt was the only time when the NFF president and the Air Peace president came to see the team and it was five minutes.

 

"In the second and third games, no one came to see the team. I don't think this will happen tomorrow (Sunday)."

Today at the Stade Roumdé Adjia, Nigeria will file out with three wins in three from their group phase campaign. The Tunisians were only able to defeat Mauritania while losing to Mali and The Gambia. Both countries are led by indigenous coaches.

The match will be Eguavoen's 16th for Nigeria across three stints, during which he has walked off the pitch victorious in 13 of the previous 15, with only two narrow defeats.

He is also the only man to have coached Nigeria to win all three group phase matches at the AFCON, achieving this in both his AFCON odysseys in 2006 and 2022.

Manchester City Pep wins Manger of the Month

 

Manchester City head coach Jose pep Guardiola, has won the Premier League Manager of the Month for the second successive month.

This was after he led City to a 100 per cent Premier League record last month, winning all seven of their domestic matches to open up an eight-point lead at the top of the table.

Simply put , the award means Guardiola has now won the Manager of the Month award 11 times in total during his City tenure, placing him third on the overall standings.

It has also seen the Catalan move clear of David Moyes with only Arsene Wenger and Sir Alex Ferguson now having claimed the prize more times.

The club's forward, Raheem Sterling, was voted the Premier League Player of the Month for December, beating team-mate Joao Cancelo, who was also nominated.

Cameroon trash Ethiopia 4-1, qualifies for AFCON round of 16

By Asuquo Cletus Felix

The indomitable lions of  Cameroon brought a goal-shy Africa Cup of Nations to life on Thursday as captain Vincent Aboubakar and Karl Toko-Ekambi both scored twice in a 4-1 defeat of Ethiopia that takes the Indomitable Lions through to the knockout stages with one group game to spare.

Cameroon who are hosting the current African Cup Of Nations AFCOn were the only team out of 24 at the tournament to score more than a single goal in the opening round of group matches when a brace of Aboubakar penalties saw them beat Burkina Faso 2-1 on Sunday.

Back at the same Olembe Stadium in the capital Yaounde they ran riot, although only after Dawa Hotessa gave Ethiopia a shock lead.

Aboubakar quickly equalised and then headed in the second in the 55th minute, before Lyon forward Toko-Ekambi — who had earlier hit the post — added his own brace.

The five-time African champions are now well-placed to finish top of Group A, although they must still play Cape Verde, who themselves face Burkina Faso later on Thursday.

Super Eagle defeat Egypt in AFCON opener

 

 

The Super Eagles of Nigeria have defeated the Pharaohs of Egypt 1-0 in their group stage encounter at the ongoing 33rd Africa Cup of Nations on Tuesday in Garoua, Cameroon.

With today's victory, Nigeria broke Egypt's unbeaten record. Pharaohs had been unbeaten in their last 16 group matches at the Africa Cup of Nations.

Before now, Egypt's last defeat in the group phase dates back to the 2004 tournament when they lost 2-1 against Algeria.

Kelechi Iheanacho scored the only goal in the game in the 30th minute with an assist from Taiwo Awoniyi.

This is the ninth encounter between Nigeria and Egypt at the Africa Cup of Nations. Nigeria hold the upper hand with four wins to Egypt's two, although their last encounter before today's game in 2010 went to the Pharaohs (3-1 in the group phase).

Nigeria are making their 19th appearance at the Africa Cup of Nations. They have reached the semi-finals in 14 of their last 16 AFCON participation, winning the tournament on three occasions.

 

This is Egypt's 25th appearance at the Africa Cup of Nations, a record in the history of the tournament.

They have won the tournament seven times, more than any other side.

AFCON 2023 : CAF Introduce Video Assistant Referee, VAR in all Matches

Asuquo Cletus Felix

The African Cup of Nations (AFCON) which begins on Sunday, the 9th of December, will have the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) in all of it 52 matches.

The competition, will begin with the hosts Cameroon taking on Burkina Faso at the Olembe Stadium in Yaounde.

The final match of the 24-team competition will hold at the same venue on February 6th, 2021.

The video assistant referee is a match official in association football who reviews decisions made by the head referee with the use of video footage and headsets for communication. This is specifically in order to minimize human errors, such as offsides, conflicting goals causing substantial influence on match results.

Recalled that the organisers, the Confederation of African Football (CAF), had previously used VAR from the quarter-finals stage of the 2019 edition in Egypt.

It is expected to help improve the image of refereeing and also produce world-class match officials in Africa.

Sixty-three match officials, including women referees Salima Mukasanga (Rwanda), Carine Atemzabong (Cameroon), Fatiha Jermoumi (Morocco) and Bouchra Karboubi (Morocco), have been listed for the matches.

 

The list consists of 24 referees, 31 assistant referees and eight VARs, all coming from 36 countries.

The roster includes two referees from the CONCACAF as part of an inter-confederation skills exchange programme.

Sports Admin Election: C'River lost 36 out of 36 Sports, Duke Fingers Govt, says Ready for Showdown

The immediate past Chairman of Cross River State Sports Commission and Chair of Canaan Table Tennis Association, Chief Orok Otu Duke, has alleged that government of Cross River State must be held responsible for the state's inability to secure any seat at the recently concluded Sporting Federations Election. 

Duke disclosed this on Friday in Calabar the state capital at the Arrival Wing of the Margaret Ekpo International Airport during an interview with newsmen where he further alleged that members of the State Sport Commission are bent on destroying sport.

'So, all of a sudden we saw a commissioner in the venue with a letter from the Governor, purportedly there to make sure I don't represent Cross River state, that they would rather score 36:0 than me being there. Then we asked, 'Why are you here with a letter?'

'Yes, for 33 years I have been chairman of Table Tennis, 3 days before then, Ekanem Ekpenyong was sworn in as a chairman of Basketball. He surfaced with a letter… of cause you know me, I stepped aside and called the governor, I said, 'Your Excellency, I have seen you said they should stop me…? He said I know nothing about it, I am not that petty.'

'But since the Governor formally told me he had no hand in it. That means there's a group of misnomers calling themselves, administrators who are here, riding roughshod on the sports', he added.

While reacting to Ekanem Ekpenyong's position that Duke did not follow the due process of being nominated by the State Government, Duke throwing more light by making reference to the constitution said, 'There is no place there the government is indicated because we are now like Football Association, government cannot touch us. Government cannot take part in any sport federation that has a constitution. That's how ignorant the people... they know nothing about sports.

'Okay, now 36 out of 36 they have lost, is that progress? What is happening to Cross River state?

Calabar Table Tennis Enthusiast Takes Sport Comm Chairman to the Cleaners, as C'River lost bids to Chair Sports Federations

One of Nigeria's Best hands in Table Tennis, trained by Chief Orok Otu Duke 

As the infighting in the Cross River State Sports Commission continues with the state loosing out in all the over 28 sporting federations she contested to chair, a table Tennis enthusiast, Mr. Francis Etang has taken a swipe at the Chairman of Cross River Sports Commission, Mr. Elom Emmanuel over what he describes as ineptitude, inexperience, and sentimental handling of the sports commission. 

It may interest you to know that, Cross River State is yet to win a single slot as  Chairman of any of the 36 Sporting Federations in the South-South Region. Etang is therefore attributing this failure to the leadership of the Sports Commission while accusing him of Witch hunting the only candidate for the Table Tennis Federation who seems to have a high possibility of winning the election to the glory of the state. 

Etang made this known in an open letter made available to TND. 

Orok Duke, the last hope of Cross River State 

The letter reads in full: 

Re: Orok Otu Duke, The Last Man Standing in CRS Sports Administration

In case you meet Mr Emmanuel Elom, Chairman, Cross River State Sports Commission, tell him that there's no where in the world that you will leave the substance for the shadow and try to fool the people. Attacking the person of Rt Hon Orok Duke, will not take you anywhere or help your despicable disposition.  Not this time.

You can never change things by fighting the existing reality. To change something,you build a new model that makes the existing obsolete. Reality bites.

Elom doesn't understand the weight of the office he carries. Sports Commission is not about collection of allocation/subvention from the state government, without showing commensurate progress in grooming new athletes and winning International Laurels, like Rt. Hon. Orok Duke has been doing for over 30 years now. After, you would shamelessly,put up enlarged pictures of Orok Duke's Table Tennis stars on Bill Boards all over Calabar, without acknowledging the Hero and mentor that has made CRS the number one for Female Table Tennis for 26 years now. Ingratitude is a lesser witchcraft. 

Sports  Development, is not Poverty Alleviation, you cannot have zero Chairmanship out of 36 Sports in the South South and Claim to be making progress. Elom, Ekanem Ekpenyong and Etim Coco-Bassey, Omara, (Director of Sports), have failed woefully. They owe Cross Riverian an explanation how we came so low and disjointed in sport.

People learn on the job, some learn from mentorship and coaching. Rather than learn from Rt. Hon. Orok Otu Duke, a man who has been  The CRS Sports Ambassador, since 2005, you rather choose to disparage him with blackmail.

Otuekong Orok Otu Duke, is a man who is single handedly keeping Cross River state in the Comity of Sport through table tennis,since 1988. 

I don't  need to be hard on you, Emmanuel Elom, because you were sentimentally nominated to head sports, as a part of the Northernization Agenda, as you know next to nothing in sports and despite the fact that the highest public office you had held previously, was as a Personal Assistant  to Ogoja Local government Chairman, hence the knowledge gap..and the audacious use of," Honourable"as a title. 

That is why you can't explain to Cross Riverians and even to your Principal, why no Cross Riverian is heading any of the  36 sport  Associations at the zonal and national level. Every state at the zonal level is entitled to head at least 6 sport association out of the 36. We have already lost out on the 28 sports conducted. Cross River state couldn't head even the most innocuous sport as Chess, let alone shooting and archery. The Director of Sports, CRS, Etim Coco-Bassey, (Omara), was the only DOS, out of 6, who was not in Benin on 22/9/2021 for the Zonal Elections. Little wonder why we lost in all the Chairmanship positions, contested. He and the rest of his colleagues, must have been staying back to share the Sports Monthly subvention, meant for Performing Athletes only. Continue.

The last man standing, Chief Orok Duke is vying for the Zonal chairman of Table Tennis Federation on the 30th September 2021, yet the Chairman  of a Sports commission is not aware? How incompetent. Duke that has been the Chairman of South South Table Tennis for the last 16 years? 

If I were to advise HE, Gov. Ayade, the governor,  I would urge him to disband that Ceespool of corruption in Sports Commission and call for a thorough audit. It is not a matter of buying mercenaries from other states for the sake of Sports Festivals and then they return to their bases,without availing the resident athletes the opportunity to imbibe further skills.

What is biting the current Sports novices, is that, during the last Sports Festival in Benin, when Elom, ignorantly dropped Table tennis, Hon Duke, fought through that CRS Deputy Governor, added and spent 2.5 million to pay for equipment,hotel accommodation and feeding for Table Tennis and they won, 2 medals. What that means is that since 2000, under Hon Orok Duke,Table Tennis has become the sport that has won the highest number of medals.

Make way, let Him Duke keep winning, so that you will have Stars to display on billboards and put your medal-less face by the side to claim, what you know nothing about,nor worked for.

You have sworn to make sure that CRS scores zero, out of 36 sports, you have written to other states that you have orders to stop Hon Orok Duke from getting elected on 30/9/2021 in Abuja, I wish you luck in your wild goose chase geared towards bringing down sports in CRS.

Otuekong Orok Otu Duke, happens to be the only Cross Riverian, out of the 36 sports, contesting for a Chairmanship Position. Do your best and fight harder against him, if you may betray him to score a point.

Remember what McAnthony told the traitor, Brutus: " we shall meet at Philippi." Come 30th September, Let us meet in Phillippi

Francis Etang

Table Tennis Enthusiast

Biase Agro plantation.