Ranchers Bees began their Nigeria Premier Football League season with a statement victory, defeating Abia Warriors 4-0 at the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium on Sunday.

Mohammed Zulkifilu was the decisive figure, scoring three times as Ranchers Bees secured their first win of the campaign in emphatic fashion. His hat-trick gave the home side a commanding advantage before Yusuf completed the scoring in the final minute.

The match was the second of the season for both clubs, but their results leave them in contrasting positions. Ranchers Bees now have their first victory, while Abia Warriors remain without a win after two matches.

Zulkifilu broke the deadlock in the 41st minute, giving Ranchers Bees the lead late in the first half. The forward then struck again on the stroke of half-time, ensuring the hosts went into the interval with a two-goal advantage.

That second goal strengthened Ranchers Bees’ control of the contest and left Abia Warriors facing a difficult task after the break. The visitors were unable to reduce the deficit, and Zulkifilu completed his hat-trick two minutes after the hour mark.

His third goal put Ranchers Bees firmly in command and turned an already difficult afternoon for Abia Warriors into a comprehensive defeat. The home side continued to hold their advantage as the match moved towards its conclusion.

Yusuf added the fourth goal in the 90th minute, putting the finishing touch to Ranchers Bees’ first victory of the season. The final score reflected the hosts’ superiority on the day and gave them a perfect response after beginning the campaign without a win.

For Abia Warriors, the result extended their wait for a first success of the season. After two matches, they remain winless, while Ranchers Bees can take confidence from both the result and the manner in which it was achieved.

Zulkifilu’s three-goal performance was the main feature of the match. His opening strike arrived before half-time, his second came immediately before the interval, and his third followed shortly after the hour mark. Yusuf’s late contribution completed a four-goal display for Ranchers Bees at the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium.

The 4-0 result therefore delivered Ranchers Bees their first victory in the campaign and left Abia Warriors still searching for their opening win in the Nigeria Premier Football League.

Isaiah Eichie, the Germany- and Nigeria-eligible right-back currently without a club, has been linked with a move to Polish side Pogon Szczecin.

The 18-year-old left Bayer Leverkusen’s under-19 team on 1 July 2026 and is now being considered for a move to Ekstraklasa. No transfer fee or probability has been attached to the rumour.

Eichie spent his youth career at Leverkusen after joining from Viktoria Cologne’s academy in 2021. He progressed from the club’s youth set-up to the under-17 side in 2023 before moving to the under-19s a year later.

During his time in the under-19 Nachwuchsliga, Eichie made 19 appearances and recorded two assists. He also featured in the UEFA Youth League and the DFB-Pokal der Junioren, scoring once in two appearances in the latter competition.

Pogon Szczecin are the club linked with the right-back, who has represented Germany and Nigeria at youth level through his dual nationality. Eichie’s last recorded club was Bayer Leverkusen U19, but he has been unattached since the start of July.

Former Shooting Stars coach Fatai Amoo believes Rangers International can produce a positive result against AS Sobemap FC and advance in the CAF Champions League.

The Nigerian champions were held to a 1-1 draw by the Benin Republic side in the first leg of their first-round tie in Abeokuta on Sunday.

Rangers International made the stronger start and took the lead in the 23rd minute through Chidozie Iwundu. The goal put the Enugu-based club in control and appeared to give them a platform to establish an advantage in the tie.

However, AS Sobemap FC improved after the interval and eventually found an equaliser to ensure the match ended level. Rangers will now need a more clinical display in the second leg if they are to continue their campaign in Africa’s premier club competition.

Amoo praised the performance of the Nigerian champions despite the result and said avoiding defeat had preserved their hopes of reaching the next round.

“I am impressed with the performance of Rangers International against AS Sobemap despite the fact that the tie ended 1-1.

“What is more important is that the team avoided defeat at home and can still progress to the next round if they remain positive.

“In the second leg, Rangers must maintain some level of concentration and take every goal-scoring chance that comes their way.”

The former Shooting Stars coach said Rangers’ ability to remain focused and make better use of their opportunities would be important in the reverse fixture. Their failure to turn their first-leg advantage into a victory means the tie remains finely balanced, with the outcome to be decided in the second match.

Rangers International are seeking to progress in the CAF Champions League, but they must improve in front of goal after scoring once in the opening encounter. Iwundu’s first-half strike gave them the lead, yet AS Sobemap FC’s response after half-time denied the Nigerian champions the advantage they had built.

Amoo’s assessment reflects the significance of the first-leg result: Rangers did not lose at home, but they also failed to secure the lead they had established. The team’s next task will be to maintain its concentration throughout the second leg and convert the chances that come its way.

The draw leaves Rangers International with the opportunity to advance if they can deliver the required result in the reverse fixture. For Amoo, a positive mindset, greater efficiency in attack and disciplined performance will be central to their hopes of progressing.

Bendel Insurance head coach Jolomi Ali says his team were unfortunate to leave Lafia empty-handed after a 1-0 defeat by Nasarawa United in their Nigeria Premier Football League Matchday Two fixture.

The Benin Arsenals were beaten at the Lafia City Stadium on Sunday, with Sam Pam’s 55th-minute goal deciding a closely contested match.

Bendel Insurance created a number of opportunities during the game but could not convert any of them. Their inability to finish those chances ultimately denied them a positive result away from home.

Ali said his players had worked hard to gain something from the match, particularly given their previous experience of playing at the venue, but felt their profligacy had proved costly.

“It’s really unlucky for us not to get something positive out of this ground, especially after many games here,” Ali said.

“We created a lot of chances, but couldn’t convert any of them.

“United are a good side, and today’s game was difficult for us, but that’s football. We hope to correct our errors and prepare well for our next game against Kun Khalifat at home.”

Nasarawa United’s decisive moment came five minutes after half-time. Pam’s strike gave the hosts the lead in the 55th minute and, despite Bendel Insurance’s attempts to respond, it remained the only goal of the contest.

The result leaves Bendel Insurance reflecting on missed chances rather than a lack of attacking opportunities. Ali acknowledged the quality of Nasarawa United, while also saying his team must address their mistakes before returning to action.

Their next assignment will come at home against Kun Khalifat FC this weekend. The match is scheduled to take place at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, where Bendel Insurance will look to respond after their narrow away defeat.

The fixture will offer the Benin Arsenals an opportunity to turn their frustration into a positive result, following a match in which their performance created openings but failed to produce a goal.

Ali’s comments came after the second matchday encounter at the Lafia City Stadium, where Nasarawa United secured victory through Pam’s second-half effort.

Bendel Insurance will now prepare for the visit of Kun Khalifat FC, with the focus on improving their finishing and correcting the errors identified after the defeat. Kennedy Boboye’s side will host the match at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City, this weekend.

Bendel Insurance head coach Jolomi Ali says his team were unfortunate to leave Lafia empty-handed after a 1-0 defeat by Nasarawa United in their Nigeria Premier Football League Matchday Two fixture.

The Benin Arsenals were beaten at the Lafia City Stadium on Sunday, with Sam Pam’s 55th-minute goal deciding a closely contested match.

Bendel Insurance created a number of opportunities during the game but could not convert any of them. Their inability to finish those chances ultimately denied them a positive result away from home.

Ali said his players had worked hard to gain something from the match, particularly given their previous experience of playing at the venue, but felt their profligacy had proved costly.

“It’s really unlucky for us not to get something positive out of this ground, especially after many games here,” Ali said.

“We created a lot of chances, but couldn’t convert any of them.

“United are a good side, and today’s game was difficult for us, but that’s football. We hope to correct our errors and prepare well for our next game against Kun Khalifat at home.”

Nasarawa United’s decisive moment came five minutes after half-time. Pam’s strike gave the hosts the lead in the 55th minute and, despite Bendel Insurance’s attempts to respond, it remained the only goal of the contest.

The result leaves Bendel Insurance reflecting on missed chances rather than a lack of attacking opportunities. Ali acknowledged the quality of Nasarawa United, while also saying his team must address their mistakes before returning to action.

Their next assignment will come at home against Kun Khalifat FC this weekend. The match is scheduled to take place at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, where Bendel Insurance will look to respond after their narrow away defeat.

The fixture will offer the Benin Arsenals an opportunity to turn their frustration into a positive result, following a match in which their performance created openings but failed to produce a goal.

Ali’s comments came after the second matchday encounter at the Lafia City Stadium, where Nasarawa United secured victory through Pam’s second-half effort.

Bendel Insurance will now prepare for the visit of Kun Khalifat FC, with the focus on improving their finishing and correcting the errors identified after the defeat. Kennedy Boboye’s side will host the match at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City, this weekend.

Bendel Insurance head coach Jolomi Ali says his team were unfortunate to leave Lafia empty-handed after a 1-0 defeat by Nasarawa United in their Nigeria Premier Football League Matchday Two fixture.

The Benin Arsenals were beaten at the Lafia City Stadium on Sunday, with Sam Pam’s 55th-minute goal deciding a closely contested match.

Bendel Insurance created a number of opportunities during the game but could not convert any of them. Their inability to finish those chances ultimately denied them a positive result away from home.

Ali said his players had worked hard to gain something from the match, particularly given their previous experience of playing at the venue, but felt their profligacy had proved costly.

“It’s really unlucky for us not to get something positive out of this ground, especially after many games here,” Ali said.

“We created a lot of chances, but couldn’t convert any of them.

“United are a good side, and today’s game was difficult for us, but that’s football. We hope to correct our errors and prepare well for our next game against Kun Khalifat at home.”

Nasarawa United’s decisive moment came five minutes after half-time. Pam’s strike gave the hosts the lead in the 55th minute and, despite Bendel Insurance’s attempts to respond, it remained the only goal of the contest.

The result leaves Bendel Insurance reflecting on missed chances rather than a lack of attacking opportunities. Ali acknowledged the quality of Nasarawa United, while also saying his team must address their mistakes before returning to action.

Their next assignment will come at home against Kun Khalifat FC this weekend. The match is scheduled to take place at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, where Bendel Insurance will look to respond after their narrow away defeat.

The fixture will offer the Benin Arsenals an opportunity to turn their frustration into a positive result, following a match in which their performance created openings but failed to produce a goal.

Ali’s comments came after the second matchday encounter at the Lafia City Stadium, where Nasarawa United secured victory through Pam’s second-half effort.

Bendel Insurance will now prepare for the visit of Kun Khalifat FC, with the focus on improving their finishing and correcting the errors identified after the defeat. Kennedy Boboye’s side will host the match at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City, this weekend.

Plateau United head coach Gbenga Ogunbote says his side still have plenty of room for improvement despite recovering from their opening-day defeat with a 1-0 victory against Kwara United in the Euromatch Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).

The Jos-based club lost 2-0 to Rivers United in their first match of the campaign but responded with a narrow win in their Matchday 2 fixture at the New Jos Stadium on Sunday.

Alex Aghaowa scored the only goal of the game in the 29th minute, rising above the defence to head Plateau United in front with an excellent finish.

Kwara United pushed for an equaliser after the interval, but Plateau United defended their advantage to secure all three points.

Ogunbote acknowledged the pressure surrounding the club’s first home match of the season, particularly after the defeat by Rivers United and with club dignitaries in attendance.

“Playing the first game at home has its own pressure and more importantly we’re just coming back from outside with a 2-0 defeat and the players know what it means and more importantly playing before the dignitaries or let me say the owners of the club.

“The most important thing is we wanted a win and we got a win and not in a dubious manner but it’s still a team in process.

“If you look at the team we featured we had about seven new players so the synergy will come match after match so the more games we play the more understanding will come.

“Yes we won but we didn’t get to the level I wanted the team to get to but no problem as regards that because I know we will get there sinner than expected.”

The result gives Plateau United a positive response to their opening loss, although Ogunbote said the team had not yet reached the standard he expects.

He believes the introduction of seven new players means the squad will need more competitive matches before it develops the understanding required to perform at its best.

According to the Plateau United manager, that improvement should come with time as the players become more familiar with one another and with the team’s approach.

Ogunbote also praised the supporters in Jos for their backing and urged them to continue believing in the side.

“I want to sincerely appreciate the fans for the support and the confidence they have in the team and I want to equally tell them they should still believe in us and at the end of the season they will be proud.”

Plateau United’s victory followed a difficult start to the season, but the coach said the performance and result represented an important step for a squad still being assembled.

Plateau United head coach Gbenga Ogunbote says his side still have plenty of room for improvement despite recovering from their opening-day defeat with a 1-0 victory against Kwara United in the Euromatch Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).

The Jos-based club lost 2-0 to Rivers United in their first match of the campaign but responded with a narrow win in their Matchday 2 fixture at the New Jos Stadium on Sunday.

Alex Aghaowa scored the only goal of the game in the 29th minute, rising above the defence to head Plateau United in front with an excellent finish.

Kwara United pushed for an equaliser after the interval, but Plateau United defended their advantage to secure all three points.

Ogunbote acknowledged the pressure surrounding the club’s first home match of the season, particularly after the defeat by Rivers United and with club dignitaries in attendance.

“Playing the first game at home has its own pressure and more importantly we’re just coming back from outside with a 2-0 defeat and the players know what it means and more importantly playing before the dignitaries or let me say the owners of the club.

“The most important thing is we wanted a win and we got a win and not in a dubious manner but it’s still a team in process.

“If you look at the team we featured we had about seven new players so the synergy will come match after match so the more games we play the more understanding will come.

“Yes we won but we didn’t get to the level I wanted the team to get to but no problem as regards that because I know we will get there sinner than expected.”

The result gives Plateau United a positive response to their opening loss, although Ogunbote said the team had not yet reached the standard he expects.

He believes the introduction of seven new players means the squad will need more competitive matches before it develops the understanding required to perform at its best.

According to the Plateau United manager, that improvement should come with time as the players become more familiar with one another and with the team’s approach.

Ogunbote also praised the supporters in Jos for their backing and urged them to continue believing in the side.

“I want to sincerely appreciate the fans for the support and the confidence they have in the team and I want to equally tell them they should still believe in us and at the end of the season they will be proud.”

Plateau United’s victory followed a difficult start to the season, but the coach said the performance and result represented an important step for a squad still being assembled.

Nasarawa United technical adviser Mbwas Mangut believes his side will continue to improve as the EuroMatch Nigeria Premier Football League season develops, after securing their first victory of the campaign.

The Solid Miners defeated Bendel Insurance 1-0 in a hard-fought Matchday Two encounter at Lafia City Stadium on Sunday.

Sam Pam scored the only goal 10 minutes after half-time, giving Nasarawa United all three points and providing a positive response to their opening-day defeat by Barau FC.

Nasarawa United had lost that fixture 3-1, making the victory over Bendel Insurance a welcome result for Mangut and his players.

Mangut acknowledged that his team had been tested by Bendel Insurance but said he was encouraged by the signs of progress within the squad.

“It was a difficult game for us. It’s only our second game of the season, and I can boldly say that we are improving game by game,” Mangut told the club’s media.

The technical adviser said some of his players had been too focused on satisfying the supporters instead of following the team’s instructions, an approach that contributed to mistakes during the game.

“Somehow, my players seemed to want to please the fans instead of circulating the ball and playing according to our instructions, which exposed us to some mistakes.

“However, we are still a very fresh team, blending experience with youthfulness, and I know we will get better as the campaign progresses.

Nasarawa United’s squad is combining experienced players with younger members, and Mangut expects that balance to develop further as the season continues.

The result leaves the club with a first win from their opening two matches, following their defeat by Barau FC in the opening fixture and Sunday’s success against Bendel Insurance.

Mangut said the early stage of the campaign gives the team time to correct its shortcomings and continue working on the style of play he wants from his players.

“The league is still fresh, and we are going to work harder and smarter as we prepare for our next game against Rangers International FC in Abeokuta. We are hoping to get a decent result there.”

The match against Rangers International FC in Abeokuta will be Nasarawa United’s next opportunity to build on the victory over Bendel Insurance.

Mangut’s side will aim to produce another improved performance as they seek to establish momentum in the EuroMatch Nigeria Premier Football League.

The win was also a relief after the disappointing result against Barau FC, while the clean-sheet victory gave Nasarawa United an early platform on which to build.

Mangut said the team’s improvement would depend on continued work as the campaign progresses, with the players expected to become more settled and effective after gaining further competitive experience.

AC Milan have praised Samuel Chukwueze after the Nigeria international registered his second Serie A assist of the season in Sunday’s 1-1 draw with Juventus.

Chukwueze came off the bench in the second half and made an immediate impact, setting up team-mate Alphadjo Cisse to give Milan the lead against Juventus.

Milan looked set to secure victory, but Juventus, known as the Old Lady, rescued a point when Federico Gatti scored an equaliser in stoppage time.

The assist was Chukwueze’s second in the Italian top flight this campaign. His first came in Milan’s 2-1 away win over Torino on 23 September.

Reacting to his contribution against Juventus, AC Milan posted on their X account: “Another assist recorded ?.”

The performance added to the growing impression that Chukwueze has found a new lease of life at Milan under head coach Ruben Amorim.

The winger returned to the club after spending the 2025-26 season on loan at Premier League side Fulham. Since Amorim’s arrival, he has made a strong early impression and has been given a prominent role in the team’s system.

Amorim has mainly used Chukwueze as a right wing-back in a 3-4-2-1 formation. The manager has placed particular emphasis on the player’s work rate, character and ability to retain control of the ball, rather than focusing solely on his defensive qualities.

Amorim previously said defending is “about spirit and character, which Chukwueze has,” while also noting that the Nigeria international had improved in that area.

That public backing, together with the demands of Amorim’s system, appears to have provided Chukwueze with a role suited to his pace, dribbling ability and direct attacking approach.

His latest assist came in a match where Milan were unable to hold on for all three points, after Gatti’s late intervention for Juventus. Nevertheless, Chukwueze’s contribution continued a productive start to the season and gave Milan another reason to highlight his influence from the right side.

The display also follows comments from Fabio Capello, who said Amorim is getting the best out of Chukwueze at AC Milan.

Chukwueze has represented Nigeria at international level and has covered matches involving both the country’s men’s and women’s national teams.

Paul Onuachu ended his goal drought with a first-half brace as Trabzonspor produced a commanding 5-0 victory over Genclerbirligi on Sunday.

The striker, who finished as a joint-top scorer in the Super Lig last season, had been unable to find the net in his opening five appearances of the current campaign across all competitions. He put that difficult run behind him in emphatic fashion, scoring twice before being forced off shortly before half-time.

Onuachu needed only five minutes to open the scoring for the hosts. His early goal gave Trabzonspor control of the contest and provided the Nigeria international with a welcome return to form after his quiet start to the season.

He struck again in the 23rd minute to restore Trabzonspor’s advantage after Mohamed Salah had converted a penalty. The second goal completed Onuachu’s brace and placed the home side firmly in command before the match had reached the half-hour mark.

However, the forward’s afternoon ended in the 44th minute. He was substituted in what appeared to be an injury-related change, with Guinea-Bissau forward Franculino introduced as his replacement.

Despite losing their two-goal scorer before the interval, Trabzonspor continued to dominate after the break and added three more goals to complete a comprehensive victory.

Micu extended the lead in the 59th minute, increasing the pressure on Genclerbirligi and moving the hosts closer to a five-goal success. Franculino then added his name to the scoresheet in the 78th minute, finishing the scoring and ensuring that the substitute made an immediate impact.

The result gave Trabzonspor a convincing win, while Onuachu’s two goals marked his first strikes of the season. His opening five matches had produced no goals, but he made a decisive contribution against Genclerbirligi before his apparent injury forced an early departure.

Trabzonspor’s five-goal performance also underlined the scale of their control. Onuachu supplied the early breakthrough, Mohamed Salah converted from the spot, and Micu and Franculino completed the scoring after the Nigerian striker had left the field.

For Onuachu, the match represented a significant change in fortunes following his barren opening to the campaign. After sharing the Super Lig scoring honours last season, he had been searching for his first goal of the new season. He found it inside five minutes on Sunday and added another 18 minutes later as Trabzonspor secured a decisive 5-0 triumph.

El-Kanemi Warriors took a commanding advantage in their CAF Confederation Cup first preliminary round tie by beating Guinea-Bissau’s UDIB 3-0 at Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne on Sunday.

The Nigerian side had to wait until the second half to turn their pressure into goals, after both teams created opportunities during a goalless opening 45 minutes.

Nnamdi Mejuobi broke the deadlock seven minutes after the restart, giving El-Kanemi Warriors the lead in the 52nd minute. The goal changed the balance of the contest and put the hosts in a stronger position.

Mejuobi then scored again from the penalty spot just four minutes later. His calmly taken effort doubled El-Kanemi Warriors’ advantage and left UDIB facing a difficult task in the remainder of the first leg.

The hosts continued to press for a third goal and were rewarded late in the match. Dayo Wahab completed the scoring two minutes before full-time, securing a 3-0 victory for El-Kanemi Warriors.

The result gives El-Kanemi Warriors a substantial lead to take into the second leg, although UDIB will have the opportunity to respond when the sides meet again next weekend.

A place in the second preliminary round of the CAF Confederation Cup is now within reach for the Nigerian club, who will aim to complete the job in the return fixture.

Both sides had been unable to find a breakthrough before half-time despite creating chances. That evenly matched first period was followed by a decisive spell from El-Kanemi Warriors after the interval, with Mejuobi’s two goals establishing control before Wahab’s late finish made the scoreline more emphatic.

The first-leg victory is also a positive result for El-Kanemi Warriors in their attempt to progress in the competition. They now have a three-goal cushion before travelling for the return leg next weekend.

The fixture was played at Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne, where El-Kanemi Warriors made full use of their opportunity to build an advantage. UDIB must now overturn the deficit in the second meeting if they are to prevent their Nigerian opponents from advancing to the next stage.

The match forms part of the CAF Confederation Cup first preliminary round, with the outcome of the two-legged tie to determine which club moves into the second preliminary round.

Paul Onuachu returned to the scoresheet with a first-half brace before leaving injured as Trabzonspor recorded a 5-0 home victory over Genclerbirligi in the Turkish Super Lig on Sunday.

The Nigeria international had gone five games without scoring for Trabzonspor in all competitions before breaking that run inside the opening five minutes.

Onuachu opened the scoring in the fifth minute when he rose above the defence to head in a cross from Aral Simsir. He struck again 17 minutes later, finishing from close range after another cross to put Trabzonspor 3-0 ahead.

His afternoon ended prematurely, however, as he was forced off in the 44th minute after picking up an injury.

The timing of the injury will raise concern for Nigeria, with the Super Eagles preparing to begin their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign later this month.

Nigeria are scheduled to face Madagascar on 23 September before travelling to play Guinea-Bissau four days later, on 27 September.

Onuachu’s latest display had appeared to provide a timely boost for both Trabzonspor and the Super Eagles. His two goals ended a personal drought that had stretched across his previous five appearances, but his early exit has now created uncertainty over his availability for the upcoming international fixtures.

Chibuike Nwaiwu also started for Trabzonspor and remained on the pitch until seven minutes before the end, when he was substituted.

Former Liverpool star Mohamed Salah scored from the penalty spot in the 14th minute to give his side a 2-0 lead and later supplied the assist for the fourth goal in the 59th minute.

Franculino Dju completed the scoring with 12 minutes remaining, adding Trabzonspor’s fifth goal to round off a dominant performance.

The result gave Trabzonspor a convincing home win, although the main focus after the match was likely to be the condition of Onuachu, particularly with Victor Osimhen also carrying an injury concern.

Osimhen recently sustained an advanced-moderate right adductor/groin strain with some bleeding during a 3-2 victory over Istanbul Basaksehir. He is expected to be unavailable for approximately two to three weeks.

The injuries to two of Nigeria’s leading forwards come at a sensitive point for the national team, with qualification for the 2027 African Cup of Nations about to begin.

Onuachu’s two goals against Genclerbirligi offered a reminder of his threat in the penalty area, but his withdrawal before half-time means Nigeria will now await further updates before assessing his prospects of featuring in the opening qualifiers.

Moses Simon featured as Paris FC beat Marseille 3-2 in a dramatic Ligue 1 contest decided by a late hat-trick goal from Sinayoko.

The Super Eagles winger was introduced from the bench in the 78th minute, replacing Koleosho, as Paris FC held on to claim all three points in Sunday’s five-goal encounter.

Simon was making his third appearance for the Paris club this season. The Nigeria international is still waiting for his first goal since joining the side, but he produced a decent performance during his brief spell on the pitch.

Paris FC made the quicker start, taking the lead after only one minute. Sinayoko finished an early attack to silence the home supporters and put the visitors ahead almost immediately.

Marseille responded within eight minutes. Gouiri restored parity in the eighth minute, ensuring Paris FC’s advantage lasted only briefly and giving the hosts a route back into a match which had begun at a frantic pace.

Sinayoko, however, struck again in the 19th minute. His second goal of the afternoon put Paris FC back in front and completed a first-half in which both sides found the net three times between them.

Marseille were not prepared to concede defeat and again drew level after the interval. Gouiri scored his second goal in the 53rd minute, sending a low right-footed shot beyond Paris FC goalkeeper Trapp.

With the score tied, the game appeared to be heading towards a draw. Sinayoko had other ideas, completing his hat-trick with a decisive goal in the 86th minute to give Paris FC a 3-2 victory.

The result ended a match in which Marseille twice recovered from falling behind, only for Paris FC to find the winning goal in the closing stages. Sinayoko’s three goals proved decisive, while Gouiri’s brace was not enough to earn the hosts a share of the points.

For Simon, the appearance added to his involvement with Paris FC this season, although he remains without a goal after three outings. His introduction came during the final phase of a contest ultimately settled by Sinayoko’s late finish.

Paris FC’s victory was secured despite the visitors being pegged back twice, with the winning goal arriving just four minutes from the end of normal time. Marseille could not find a third equaliser, allowing Paris FC to leave with maximum points from the Ligue 1 fixture.

Kano Pillars survived a late Niger Tornadoes rally to claim a 3-2 victory in a five-goal EuroMatch Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) thriller at Sani Abacha Stadium on Sunday.

The hosts made the stronger start and established a commanding lead before half-time. Ubong Friday opened the scoring for Kano Pillars, while Fabian Nworie added a second to put the home side 2-0 ahead at the interval.

Nworie then struck again nine minutes after the restart, completing his brace and moving Kano Pillars three goals clear. The hosts appeared to be in complete control, but Niger Tornadoes responded with two goals to set up a tense finish.

Godfrey Joseph pulled one goal back for the visitors before Wasiu Jimoh scored to reduce the deficit to 3-2. Niger Tornadoes continued to search for an equaliser during the closing stages, but Kano Pillars defended their advantage and held on for maximum points.

The result gave Kano Pillars a memorable victory in their matchday two encounter, although they were made to work hard after surrendering much of their three-goal cushion. Niger Tornadoes’ late pressure ensured the contest remained in doubt until the final stages, but the home team ultimately secured the points.

At New Jos Stadium, Plateau United recorded their first victory of the season by defeating Kwara United 1-0.

Alex Aghahowa scored the only goal of the match in the 29th minute. His finish was enough to hand the Peace Boys all three points in a closely contested home fixture.

Nasarawa United also earned a narrow home victory, beating Bendel Insurance 1-0 in Lafia.

Sam Pam provided the decisive moment in the 55th minute as the Solid Miners edged another tight contest. Bendel Insurance were unable to find a response, leaving Nasarawa United to take all three points.

The day’s other fixture ended without a goal, with Kun Khalifat FC and Barau FC playing out a 0-0 draw at Dan Anyiam Stadium in Owerri.

The stalemate was the only match among the four fixtures not to produce a winner, while the other three games were decided by a single goal or, in Kano, by the narrowest possible margin after Niger Tornadoes’ comeback.

Full results:

- Kun Khalifat FC 0-0 Barau FC

- Nasarawa United 1-0 Bendel Insurance

- Plateau United 1-0 Kwara United

- Kano Pillars 3-2 Niger Tornadoes

Augsburg came from behind to beat Eintracht Frankfurt 4-1 away on Sunday, leaving Raphael Onyedika and his team-mates with only one point from their opening two Bundesliga matches.

Nigeria international midfielder Onyedika played the full 90 minutes for Frankfurt, making his second league appearance since moving from Club Brugge during the summer transfer window.

The result marked Augsburg’s second victory of the season and lifted them to six points at the top of the Bundesliga table. Frankfurt, who drew 3-3 with Union Berlin on the opening matchday, remain in the lower half of the standings with one point.

Frankfurt made the stronger start at Deutsche Bank Park and took the lead in the sixth minute. Jonathan Burkardt rose to head the hosts in front after an encouraging opening spell.

The home side controlled much of the first half, enjoying greater possession and creating more attempts than their opponents. However, Frankfurt were unable to turn their dominance into a second goal, with several opportunities going unconverted.

Augsburg responded immediately after the interval. Just one minute into the second half, Arijon Ibrahimovic levelled the contest with a header.

The visitors then completed their turnaround moments later when Robin Fellhauer put Augsburg ahead. His effort appeared relatively harmless, but Frankfurt goalkeeper Noah Atubolu spilled the ball and allowed it to find the net.

Frankfurt were unable to recover as Augsburg grew in confidence. Substitute Alexis Claude-Maurice extended the visitors’ advantage in the 65th minute, placing the game firmly beyond the hosts’ reach.

Fabian Rieder completed the scoring in the 89th minute with an excellent free-kick, confirming a convincing away victory for Augsburg.

Onyedika’s appearance was his second in the Bundesliga since his transfer from Club Brugge, where he had previously played. The Nigerian midfielder remained on the pitch throughout the match as Frankfurt suffered a heavy home loss.

Augsburg forward Uchenna Ogundu, also a Nigerian, was named among the substitutes but did not start the match. He was again left on the bench as Augsburg secured a result that moved them to the summit.

Frankfurt’s next challenge will be to respond after surrendering an early lead and conceding four times in the second half. Their opening two matches have now produced a draw and a defeat, while Augsburg have taken maximum points from both of their fixtures.

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has approved the immediate release of two buses to Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) of Ibadan after their 1-0 victory over Tunisia’s CS Sfaxien in the CAF Confederation Cup.

The vehicles, a 32-seater and an 18-seater, have been provided to support the Oluyole Warriors during their ongoing continental campaign.

Shooting Stars secured a narrow advantage in the first leg of their preliminary-round tie on Saturday, beating CS Sfaxien at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena in Abeokuta.

Lucky Emmanuel scored the only goal of the match in the 25th minute, giving the Nigerian club a one-goal lead to take into the second leg.

The result marked an important moment for Shooting Stars, who are competing in African football for the first time in 27 years.

The governor’s decision was announced on Sunday in a statement issued by the Oyo State Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade. The state government said the buses were intended to underline its support for the team as it seeks to progress in the CAF Confederation Cup.

The statement said the administration wanted to help maintain the club’s current momentum while also working to restore the former reputation of the “Darling Club of Oyo State”.

“The approval underscores the state government’s commitment to supporting the Oluyole Warriors as they represent Oyo State on the continental stage,” the statement partly read.

It added: “Makinde has assured the club’s supporters and fans that the state government will continue to provide the necessary support to enable Shooting Stars to remain in contention for continental honours,” the statement added.

The victory over CS Sfaxien gives Shooting Stars a slender advantage before the return fixture, with the club attempting to make a strong impression on their return to continental competition.

The Ibadan side’s success in the opening leg has also strengthened the bond between the team and the Oyo State government, which has pledged continued backing for the club.

Shooting Stars, one of Nigeria’s best-known football institutions, are known by the nickname the Oluyole Warriors. Their current continental campaign represents their first appearance in African competition in nearly three decades, making the result against CS Sfaxien particularly significant for the club and its supporters.

The two buses approved by Governor Makinde are expected to assist the team as it continues its campaign, with Shooting Stars aiming to protect its advantage and remain in contention for continental honours.

Rangers were forced to settle for a 1-1 draw against AS Sobemap in the first leg of their CAF Champions League first preliminary round tie at the Moshood Abiola Sports Complex in Abeokuta on Sunday.

The Flying Antelopes made the stronger start and controlled much of the opening period, with AS Sobemap spending long spells defending deep in their own half.

Rangers’ early pressure was rewarded in the 23rd minute when Iwundu Chidozie broke the deadlock. The forward found the back of the net to put Fidelis Ilechukwu’s side in front and give the Nigerian club a deserved reward for their fast start.

The home team continued to dictate the tempo after taking the lead. Rangers created further opportunities as they looked to strengthen their position before half-time, but they were unable to add a second goal.

AS Sobemap returned from the interval with a renewed sense of purpose and quickly changed the momentum of the contest. The visitors stunned Rangers by scoring an early equaliser in the second half, leaving the tie level.

Rangers responded by pushing forward in search of a winning goal. They managed to create several clear-cut chances, but a lack of composure in front of goal meant they could not regain their advantage.

The result leaves the first-round tie finely balanced before the second leg, which will take place next Sunday. Rangers will now have to secure a positive result away from home if they are to progress to the next stage of the CAF Champions League.

The draw came despite Rangers enjoying the better of the early exchanges and taking the lead through Iwundu Chidozie. Their inability to convert the further chances they created ultimately allowed AS Sobemap to leave Abeokuta with a result.

Fidelis Ilechukwu’s team will therefore reflect on a missed opportunity after failing to protect their lead at the Moshood Abiola Sports Complex. AS Sobemap, meanwhile, recovered from their difficult opening spell to claim a result that keeps both sides’ hopes alive ahead of the return fixture.

The two clubs will meet again next Sunday, with the winner of the tie moving on in the CAF Champions League preliminary-round competition.

Samuel Chukwueze provided an assist after coming off the bench, but AC Milan were denied victory as Juventus scored deep into stoppage time to secure a 1-1 draw in Sunday’s Serie A top clash, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The Super Eagles winger entered the game in the second half and quickly made an impact, setting up Alphadjo Cissé for Milan’s opener.

Chukwueze delivered a long ball towards the left side of the box, with Cissé controlling possession before cutting inside Manuel Locatelli and firing a low finish beyond Guglielmo Vicario.

The assist was Chukwueze’s second in the Serie A this season, having also set up a goal in Milan’s 2-1 away victory over Torino on September 23.

Juventus had enjoyed the better opportunities during a tightly contested first half, but Milan remained organised and dangerous on the counter under new head coach Rúben Amorim.

The visitors continued to push for an equaliser after falling behind and eventually got their reward in the 92nd minute.

Federico Gatti rose highest to meet a Teun Koopmeiners free-kick delivery and powered his header beyond Mike Maignan to rescue a point for Juventus.

The result leaves both Milan and Juventus unbeaten after three Serie A matches in the 2026/27 campaign. The two sides have seven points apiece from two wins and a draw, with Milan fourth and Juventus fifth.

They remain two points behind joint leaders Roma and Inter, who have collected maximum points from their opening three matches, while Como are also on seven points.

Chukwueze has made an encouraging start to life at Milan under Amorim following his return from a loan spell at Fulham during the 2025/26 season.

The Portuguese coach has primarily deployed the Nigerian as a right wing-back in his 3-4-2-1 system, placing greater emphasis on his work rate, character and ability on the ball rather than his traditional defensive qualities.

Amorim has praised the winger’s mentality, insisting that defending is “about spirit and character, which Chukwueze has,” while also acknowledging his improvement in that area.

The tactical change appears to be bringing the best out of Chukwueze’s pace, dribbling ability and direct attacking style.

The Nigerian has also embraced the increased defensive responsibilities, with his early performances suggesting he could become an important high-energy option on Milan’s right flank as the club targets a strong Serie A campaign.

Galatasaray have confirmed that Victor Osimhen has suffered a significant right adductor injury that is expected to keep the Super Eagles striker out for several weeks, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The Turkish champions revealed that an MRI scan and further examinations conducted at Ac?badem Hospital showed a moderate-to-severe strain involving bleeding and muscle damage in Osimhen’s right adductor, commonly associated with the groin area.

Osimhen was substituted during Galatasaray’s 3-2 victory over Istanbul Basaksehir on Friday after sustaining the suspected muscle injury.

The Nigerian is expected to spend between three weeks and one month on the sidelines, ruling him out of Galatasaray’s UEFA Champions League opener against Sporting Lisbon.

He is also expected to miss the club’s Turkish Süper Lig fixtures against Kocaelispor and Trabzonspor as he begins his recovery.

The development is also a major concern for the Super Eagles, with Osimhen set to miss Nigeria’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches scheduled for September.

Nigeria are due to face Madagascar on September 23 before travelling to Guinea-Bissau four days later for their second qualifying fixture.

Osimhen’s absence leaves Nigeria without one of their most important attacking options as the Super Eagles continue their bid to secure qualification for the 2027 AFCON.