WAFU Qualifiers: Mailantarki Care FC beat Nigeria’s Flying Eagles 1-0

Nigeria’s Flying Eagles …

The Nigeria National team U-20 (Flying Eagles) suffered a defeat in the hands of Mailantarki Care FC in one of its series of preparatory games on Wednesday in Abuja.

The reigning Champions of the 2024 International Youth Championship in Denmark (Dana Cup) produced an all-around performance against the Nigeria National team outfit, the Flying Eagles at the FIFA Goal Project pitch of the MKO Abiola Stadium.

Coach Aliyu Zubairu’s U-20 team began preparation last week ahead of the upcoming WAFU Championship scheduled in Togo, where the representatives of the zone in the 2025 U-20 nations cup will emerge.

Sensational wing wizard Miko Dalha scored the only goal of the game following a delightful footwork before smashing into the near post before the break.

The host could have equalized from the spot deep into the game just for Mailantarki goalie Abbati Muhammed to punch away the penalty kick. However, the Flying Eagles defeated Water FC 1-nil in its first game courtesy of Bayelsa United forward Rabiu Abdullahi.

Cristiano Ronaldo Criticizes Man United Manager Erik ten Hag’s Leadership

Portuguese football legend Cristiano Ronaldo has openly criticized Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag for his approach since taking over the club.

Speaking on the Rio Ferdinand Presents podcast, the Al-Nassr star voiced his frustrations over Ten Hag’s management style and mentality as the United boss.

Ronaldo, who spent two spells at Manchester United, emphasized the need for the club to have a winning mindset. “As a Manchester United coach, you cannot say you’re not going to fight to win the League or Champions League. Even if you don’t have the potential, you must try,” Ronaldo stated.

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While acknowledging that the appointment of the Dutch manager was a step in the right direction, Ronaldo suggested that Ten Hag needs to listen more to former players and club legends to rebuild the club effectively. “People like Rio [Ferdinand], Roy Keane, Paul Scholes, and Sir Alex Ferguson understand the club and how to handle players. Their experience is crucial for the club’s improvement,” Ronaldo added.

Since Ten Hag’s tenure began, Manchester United has seen mixed results, including a third and eighth-place finish in the Premier League and victories in the Carabao Cup and FA Cup.

However, Ronaldo’s second spell at Old Trafford ended on a sour note following a public falling-out with Ten Hag, which led to the termination of his contract. Ronaldo later expressed feeling “betrayed” by the Dutch manager.

Ronaldo remains a United icon, having scored 145 goals in 326 appearances and won nine trophies with the club across his two stints.

Eguavoen Eyes Victory as Super Eagles Arrive in Kigali for AFCON Qualifier

Super Eagles coach Augustine Eguavoen has expressed confidence in his squad’s “momentum” as they prepare for Tuesday’s 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying match against Rwanda at the Amahoro Stadium in Kigali.

Eguavoen praised the team’s mindset following their dominant 3-0 win over Benin Republic in Uyo, stating that the players are eager to maintain their winning form. “We have the right mentality now, and the mood in camp is excellent. Everyone is focused on securing the three points against Rwanda to stay on top of the table,” he said.

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The Nigerian delegation, including 23 players and officials led by NFF President Ibrahim Gusau, arrived in Kigali on Sunday afternoon ahead of Monday’s training session. Team captain William Ekong emphasized the team’s determination, saying, “Our goal is simple – get the three points. We know Rwanda will be tough, but we are prepared to give our best from the start.”

The Super Eagles face a Rwanda team that earned a 1-1 draw against Libya in their opening match. Tuesday’s game will kick off at 3 p.m. local time (2 p.m. Nigeria time).