David Stockbrink Set for Top-Flight Debut After Fortuna Sittard U21 Promotion

SITTARD, NETHERLANDS — Nigerian youth sensation David Stockbrink has reached a major career milestone, securing promotion to the first U21 division with Dutch side Fortuna Sittard.

The 19-year-old forward, who has been a standout performer in the club's academy, will now test his skills in the highest tier of youth football in the Netherlands. The promotion marks a significant step toward the senior squad and cements his reputation as one of the most promising dual-nationality talents in Europe.

"Ready for the Highest Level"

Speaking on the achievement, an elated Stockbrink expressed his readiness for the challenges of the top division:

"I'm very happy about it and I'm looking forward to playing in the highest league of U21 level," David stated.

International Heartbreak and Future Goals

While his club career is soaring, Stockbrink’s journey with the Nigeria Flying Eagles faced a late hurdle earlier this year. The German-born attacker was a key invitee for the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile. However, a combination of a late injury and club engagements ultimately denied him the chance to represent Nigeria on the world stage at the last minute.

Despite that setback, Stockbrink remains deeply committed to the green-and-white. His eyes are now firmly set on the Nigeria U23 (Olympic Eagles) camp. With the next Olympic qualifiers on the horizon, the versatile forward is hopeful that his promotion to the elite Dutch U21 league will earn him a call-up to help lead Nigeria’s quest for Olympic glory.

Next Steps for David:

- League Kick-off: David will begin the new campaign in the U21 First Division early next month.

- Scouting Watch: Nigerian federation scouts are expected to monitor his progress closely in the Netherlands ahead of the next international break.

It's great to hear from you, David! We're doing well over here. Huge congratulations on the promotion—it sounds like a fantastic opportunity to showcase your talent in a top league. We'll be rooting for that U23 call-up!

NIGERIAN YOUTH SENSATION DAVID STOCKBRIDGE SUPPORTS BOYHOOD CLUB EXCELLENT FC

Nigerian youth sensation David Stockbridge has demonstrated his commitment to giving back to his roots by paying the President Federation Cup registration fee for his boyhood club, Excellent FC. The 19-year-old Fortuna Sittard of Holland rising star made the generous donation as part of his efforts to contribute to the development of the club that played a pivotal role in his early career.

The gesture has been met with praise from Excellent FC CEO, Mr. Onone Ikrechero, who expressed his gratitude for Stockbridge's kind contribution. "We are thrilled that David has chosen to support his boyhood club in this way," Mr. Ikrechero said. "His generosity is a poof to his humility and commitment to giving back to the community that nurtured him. We are proud of his achievements and look forward to his continued success."

Recall that David Stockbridge was part of the players invited to camp for the Nigeria's U-20 side for the 2025 FIFA U20 World Cup, hosted by Chile, but only missed the final listing at the last huddle. The young midfielder's donation is a welcome boost for Excellent FC as they prepare for the President Federation Cup.

Excellent FC's participation in the tournament is expected to be a showcase of top-tier football, and Stockbridge's contribution has enhanced the club's chances of success. 

(C) Excellent FC Media

NLO reveals 2026 registration guidelines for Division One, U19 Youth League clubs

The Nationwide League One (NLO), Africa's largest grassroots football league, is pleased to announce updated guidelines for player registration for clubs in Division 1 and the U-19 Youth League as we eagerly prepare for the kickoff of the 2026 season on Friday, April 10.

The NLO Executive Board, in collaboration with its Secretariat, is excited to initiate the registration process for the upcoming season. This includes important amendments approved by Congress designed to effectively address the current inflationary trends.

This proactive move highlights our commitment to ensuring that preparations for the 2026 league are moving forward seamlessly, with clear and comprehensive registration procedures established for all participating clubs.

Clubs are kindly reminded to remit a registration fee of ₦600,000 (six hundred thousand Naira) to FCMB BANK (NATIONWIDE LEAGUE ONE. 3267800014) to gain access to the NLO's database for registration. All players must be registered within the database at www.nlo.com. Please note that official registration will be contingent upon the completion of the registration fee payment.

For Youth League clubs, we request the submission of players' primary school certificates. The deadline for Division One club registration is set for Friday, February 27, 2026, ensuring that all clubs have ample time to prepare.

The ₦600,000 payment not only secures registration but also covers essential pre-competition medical assessments, comprehensive insurance for players and officials, tamper-proof hologram security seals for 35 players and 7 officials, as well as necessary operations at the NLO Secretariat.

To ensure a smooth registration process, clubs should deposit the registration fee directly into the designated NLO FCMB account. After payment, please submit a copy of the receipt to the NLO, clearly indicating the name of the paying club. Adhering to these guidelines will help facilitate a successful registration process for all clubs involved.

UGHELLI NORTH FOOTBALL COUNCIL SUPER 8 DECEMBER FOOTBALL FESTIVAL 2025

Ughelli, Delta State - The stage is set for the highly anticipated Ughelli North Football Council Super 8 December Football Festival 2025, scheduled to kick off on December 27th, 2025. The tournament, which promises to bring excitement and entertainment to football enthusiasts, will feature eight top teams competing in a thrilling display of skill and sportsmanship.

The opening game is slated to take place on December 27th, 2025, at 7:00 am, setting the tone for a spectacular tournament. The competition will culminate in the finals on December 31st, 2025, at 7:00 am, as the best teams battle it out for the coveted trophy.

"We are thrilled to announce the commencement of the Super 8 December Football Festival, and we invite all football enthusiasts to come and support their favorite teams," said Mr. Onone Ikrechero, Chairman of Ughelli North Football Council. "This tournament is a platform for us to showcase the best of Ughelli's football talent, and we are confident that it will be an unforgettable experience for all."

The Ughelli North Football Council has worked tirelessly to organize this event, and the community is eagerly awaiting the tournament's commencement. Football fans are advised to mark their calendars and come out in full force to support their favorite teams.

The Super 8 December Football Festival promises to be an unforgettable experience, showcasing the best of Ughelli's football talent. With top-notch organization and exciting matches on the horizon, this tournament is a must-watch for all football enthusiasts.

Oshimil Football Coaches Launches 2026 OFL League of Kings: A New Era in Nigerian Football

In a thrilling development for Nigerian football, Oshimil Football Coaches has officially opened registration for the 2026 OFL League of Kings, set to be a landmark event in the country's sports calendar.

Scheduled to bring together elite teams and emerging talents, the league aims to promote football excellence, sportsmanship, and community engagement across Nigeria. The OFL League of Kings promises an electrifying experience for players and spectators alike, with top-notch facilities and competitive matches expected.

HIGHLIGHTS:

- Elite Competition: Teams to compete for top honors and bragging rights

- Talent Showcase: Platform for emerging players to shine

- Sponsorship Opportunities: Partner with a leading Nigerian sports event

- Community Engagement: Promoting football development across Nigeria

"We are excited to kick-start the registration process for what promises to be an unforgettable league," said a spokesperson for Oshimil Football Coaches. "This is an opportunity for teams to showcase their skills, for players to shine, and for sponsors to be part of a major sporting event."

Interested teams and individuals can register now. Sponsorship opportunities are also available for organizations looking to associate with this prestigious league.

REGISTRATION DETAILS:

- Phone: 09074368560

- International: +447440736507

- Website: www.ofl2026.com 

Oshimil Football Coaches is renowned for nurturing football talent and organizing top-tier competitions in Nigeria. The 2026 OFL League of Kings is set to be a highlight of Nigerian sports.

CAF Champions League – Group A Preview: Rivers United vs RS Berkane

Rivers United_ will look to bounce back from their opening‑match defeat when they host Renaissance Sportive de Berkane of Morocco on Friday, 28 November, at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.

Rivers United opened their group‑stage campaign with a 3‑0 loss to Pyramids FC in Cairo, despite a resilient performance. RS Berkane, three‑time winners of the CAF Confederation Cup, arrive after a 3‑0 victory over Zambia’s Power Dynamos.

Meanwhile, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has appointed Issa Sy as referee, with Djibril Camara (Assistant 1), Nouha Bangoura (Assistant 2), and El Hadji Amadou SY as fourth official. Match commissioner Bakary K. Jammeh(Gambia) will oversee the proceedings.

Kick‑off

5:00 PM (Nigeria time).

Rivers United fans and stakeholders anticipate a spirited outing as the “Pride of Nigeria” seeks to turn the tide in the group stage.

Mayuku Charles

Media Officer, Rivers United FC

EXCELLENT FOOTBALL ACADEMY UGHELLI, DELTA STATE, SET FOR 8TH STEPHEN KESHI NATIONAL U-17 CHAMPIONSHIP

The management of Excellent Football Academy, Ughelli, Delta State, has expressed its commitment to making a mark at the upcoming 8th Stephen Keshi National U-17 Championship, scheduled to hold from December 13th to 18th, 2025, in Benin City, Edo State.

In an interview, the CEO of Excellent Football Academy, Mr. Onome Ikrechero, paid tribute to the legendary Stephen Keshi, saying, "We are honored to be part of this prestigious tournament, which is a fitting tribute to the late Big Boss, a Nigerian football icon."

Ikrechero assured that the team is well-prepared and ready to put up a good show, saying, "We have a talented squad, and we are confident that we will make a statement at the tournament." He expressed his gratitude to the team's management and technical staff for their hard work and dedication in preparing the team for the championship.

The 8th Stephen Keshi National U-17 Championship is expected to feature top-notch teams from across the country, and Excellent Football Academy is eager to showcase its skills and make a name for itself in Nigerian football.

UGHELI PRE-SEASON CUP 2026 UNVEILS NEW PRIZE MONEY

The 21st edition of the Ughelli Preseason Cup is set to kick off in 2026 with a bang, as the Organizing Committee announces a new prize money structure that promises to take the competition to the next level. The tournament, which has become a benchmark for football excellence in Nigeria, will feature 16 top teams from the Nationwide League (NLO) battling it out for exciting prizes.

PRIZES AND INCENTIVES

The prize money for the 21st edition is more lucrative than ever, with the winning team set to pocket a whopping One Million Naira only (#1,000,000) . The runner-up will take home Six Hundred Thousand Naira (#600,000) , while the two teams that lose in the semi-finals will each receive a consolation prize of Two Hundred Thousand Naira (#200,000) .

REGISTRATION DETAILS

To participate in the tournament, teams are required to pay a registration fee of #200,000 payable to UBA Bank. 

Account name; EFA Sports Limited

Account number: 1026141458

Only fully registered teams will be added to the grouping and fixtures. Teams are advised to register early to avoid last-minute rush, as the deadline for registration is yet to be announced.

COMPETITION FORMAT

The tournament will feature 16 teams competing in a group stage, followed by quarter-finals, semi-finals, and the final match. The competition will be played on a knockout basis, with teams eliminated after losing a match. No club will be included in the fixtures without meeting up with the full registration requirements.

CALL TO PARTICIPATE

The Organizing Committee invites all eligible teams to participate in the 21st edition of the Ughelli Preseason Cup. Teams can register by contacting the Organizing Committee on +234 706 542 8262 for more information on registration and tournament details. Don't miss out on this exciting opportunity to showcase your team's skills and win big!

UGHELLI PRE-SEASON CUP 2026 KICKOFF DATE ANNOUNCED

The wait is over! The Organizing Committee is pleased to announce that the 21st edition of the Ughelli Preseason Cup will kick off in March 20th, 2026. This highly anticipated tournament is expected to feature 16 top teams from the Nationwide League (NLO) battling it out for exciting prizes.

REGISTRATION DETAILS

Registration for the tournament is currently ongoing, and teams are advised to register early to avoid last-minute rush. The registration deadline is February 25th, 2026. Teams are required to pay a registration fee of #200,000 to secure their spot in the tournament.

TOURNAMENT DETAILS

The 21st edition of the Ughelli Preseason Cup promises to be an exciting and competitive tournament, with the following prizes up for grabs:

- 1st place: #1, 000,000

- 2nd place: #600,000

- Semi-finalists: #200,000 each

REGISTRATION DETAILS

To participate in the tournament, teams are required to pay a registration fee of Two Hundred Thousand Naira only (#200,000) payable to UBA Bank, Account name: EFA Sports Limited
Account number: 1026141458

Only fully registered teams will be eligible to participate in the competition.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to showcase your team's skills and win big! Register now and get ready for the battle of the year!

Contact Mr Onone Ikrechero
Phone no: +2347065428262

MR. ONONE IKRECHERO COMMENDS NIGERIA REFEREES ASSOCIATION, DELTA STATE REFEREES COUNCIL FOR OUTSTANDING PERFORMANCE

The Chairman of the Ughelli North Football Council and Tournament Director of the Ughelli Preseason Football Tournament, Mr. Onone Ikrechero, has expressed his satisfaction and appreciation for the outstanding performance of the Nigeria Referees Association, Delta State Referees Council, at the just concluded 20th edition of the Ughelli Preseason Football Tournament.

Mr. Ikrechero praised the referees for their professionalism, accuracy, and commitment to ensuring that the games were played in a fair and safe environment. He noted that the referees' performance was exemplary, and their decisions were unbiased and in accordance with the laws of the game. The tournament director commended the referees for their dedication and hard work, which contributed significantly to the success of the tournament.

The commendation from Mr. Ikrechero highlights the high standard of officiating displayed by the referees. The outstanding performance of the referees has not only boosted the credibility of the Ughelli Preseason Football Tournament but also reinforced the confidence of players, coaches, and fans in the referees' ability to officiate matches at the highest level.

Mr. Ikrechero's appreciation recognizes the critical role that referees play in ensuring the smooth conduct of football matches. Their dedication, expertise, and commitment to fairness are essential to the success of any football tournament, and the Ughelli Preseason Football Tournament is no exception. The organizers of the tournament look forward to working with the Nigeria Referees Association, Delta State Referees Council, in future editions of the tournament.

THE GAINS OF THE UGHELLI PRE-SEASON FOOTBALL TOURNAMENT: 20TH EDITION

The 20th edition of the Ughelli Preseason Football Tournament organised by the Chairman Ughelli North Football Council Mr Onone Ikrechero has come to a close, leaving behind a trail of excitement, entertainment, and most importantly, development in the world of football. This highly anticipated event has once again proven to be a resounding success, bringing numerous benefits to the local football community.

Promoting Talent and Sportsmanship

One of the primary gains of the tournament is the platform it provides for local footballers to showcase their skills and talents. The competition has consistently delivered thrilling matches, surprise upsets, and outstanding performances from players, demonstrating the wealth of talent in the region. Moreover, the tournament has promoted sportsmanship and fair play, with teams and players displaying exceptional behavior on and off the field. By giving the players the platform and teams the opportunity to access their preparations, the tournament has played a crucial role in shaping the next generation of football stars.

Putting Ughelli and Delta State on the Football Map

The tournament has consistently put Ughelli and Delta State on the football map, attracting attention from fans, coaches, and scouts alike. No doubt, with the high level of performance and professionalism exhibited, the tournament has cemented its reputation as a premier football event in the region. This increased visibility has not only boosted the profile of local football but also provided a platform for the region to showcase its capabilities and potential.

Boosting Local Football Development

The Ughelli Preseason Football Tournament has also contributed significantly to the development of local football. The event has provided opportunities for young players to gain exposure, learn from experienced coaches, and potentially secure spots in top-tier teams. Additionally, the tournament has helped to foster a sense of community and camaraderie among football enthusiasts, promoting the growth of the sport at the grassroots level.

Promoting a Safe and Healthy Environment

Beyond the excitement of the game, the tournament has also served as a platform for promoting a safe and healthy environment in football. Through its campaign against drug abuse and violence in football, the tournament has sent a strong message about the importance of fair play, discipline, and respect for the game. This initiative has not only benefited the players but also the fans, promoting a culture of sportsmanship and responsible behavior.

Economic Benefits

The tournament has also had a positive impact on the local economy, with fans and spectators flocking to the venue to watch the matches, patronize local businesses, and support their favorite teams. This influx of people has undoubtedly boosted the local economy, providing a much-needed stimulus for businesses and entrepreneurs in the area.

As the organizers look to the future, it is clear that the Ughelli Preseason Football Tournament will continue to play a vital role in promoting football development in the region. With its 21st edition already on the horizon, fans and football enthusiasts alike are eagerly anticipating what promises to be another exciting chapter in the tournament's history.

Written by Charles Mayuku 

20th EDITION UGHELLI PRE-SEASON CUP 2025 CONCLUDES WITH RESOUNDING SUCCESS: MR. ONOME IKRECHERO'S MESSAGE OF APPRECIATION

The 20th edition of the Ughelli Preseason Cup 2025 has come to a close, and the organizers are celebrating a resounding success. The tournament's Director and Chairman of the Ughelli North Football Council, Mr. Onone Ikrechero, expressed his gratitude to the Almighty God for guiding the event to a successful conclusion in Ughelli.

Appreciation to Participants and Stakeholders

Mr. Ikrechero extended his heartfelt thanks to all participating clubs, coaches, club owners, management, and players for their exceptional performance and sportsmanship throughout the tournament. He also acknowledged the crucial role played by the Delta State Football Association, led by Chairman Hon. Godwin Adode (Coach Tete), and his board, in ensuring the tournament's success.

Special appreciation was reserved for the sporting press, media men and women (SWAN), and journalists for their tireless efforts in covering the event. The match officials from the Nigeria Referees Association, Delta State Chapter, were also commended for their outstanding work, which is crucial to the tournament's success.

As the teams bid farewell and journey mercies back home, Mr. Ikrechero expressed his enthusiasm for the next edition, stating, "We look forward to seeing you all in 2026 by the grace of Excellent God Almighty." 

The countdown to the 21st edition of the Ughelli Preseason Cup has begun, and the organizers are already preparing for what promises to be an even more exciting event.

THE MAN BEHIND THE SUCCESS OF THE UGHELLI PRE-SEASON FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP: MR. ONONE IKRECHERO

The Ughelli Preseason Football Championship has become a staple of football enthusiasts across Nigeria and beyond, and behind its success is the tireless efforts of Mr. Onone Ikrechero, Chairman of the Ughelli North Football Council and CEO of Excellent Football Club. As the mastermind behind the tournament, Mr. Ikrechero has played a pivotal role in shaping the competition into what it is today.

In an exclusive interview, Mr. Ikrechero shared his thoughts on the tournament's success. "It's a labor of love," he said. "We're thrilled to see the tournament continue to grow and attract top talent from across Nigeria and beyond. Our goal is to provide a platform for local footballers to showcase their skills and gain exposure." The 20th edition of the Ughelli Preseason Football Championship has just concluded, marking two decades of football excellence.

Under Mr. Ikrechero's leadership, the Ughelli Preseason Football Championship has become synonymous with excellence. The tournament has consistently delivered thrilling matches, surprise upsets, and outstanding performances from players. As the CEO of Excellent Football Club, which boasts a renowned academy that has produced numerous talents, Mr. Ikrechero's expertise in football development is evident in the tournament's success.

As the tournament continues to grow in popularity, Mr. Ikrechero looks forward to the future. "We're committed to continuing to provide a platform for local footballers to shine," he said. With his passion and leadership, the Ughelli Preseason Football Championship is set to continue thriving for years to come, nurturing and showcasing the best of Nigerian football talent.

Written by Charles Mayuku 

UGHELLI PRE-SEASON FOOTBALL TOURNAMENT 20TH EDITION: WINSOME FC CROWNED CHAMPIONS

The 20th edition of the Ughelli Preseason Football Tournament reached its thrilling conclusion on Monday at the Ogor Technical College Pitch in Ughelli. In the highly anticipated final match, Winsome FC emerged victorious, defeating Ortega FA 2-1 in a closely contested encounter.

The match was a showcase of skill and determination, with both teams creating scoring opportunities. However, Winsome FC's strategy and teamwork paid off, as they secured a 2-1 win over Ortega FA. This victory marks a significant achievement for Winsome FC, capping off a successful campaign in the tournament.

The organizers of the Ughelli Preseason Football Tournament through the Chairman Ughelli North Football Council Mr Onone Ikrechero extend their heartfelt congratulations to Winsome FC on their well-deserved win. Appreciation also goes to Ortega FA for a commendable run in the competition. The tournament has once again served as a platform for local talent to shine, and the future looks bright for football in the region.

Written by Charles Mayuku 

UGHELLI PRE-SEASON FOOTBALL COMPETITION 20TH EDITION: ORTEGA FA AND WINSOME FC EMERGE AS FINALISTS

The semi-finals of the Ughelli Pre-Season Football Competition 20th edition have reached a thrilling conclusion, with Ortega FA and Winsome FC emerging as the finalists. 

The tournament has once again showcased the best of football talent in the region, and the excitement is building up for the final showdown.

In the first semi-final match, Ortega FA edged out Go Pro FC 4-3 in a nail-biting penalty shootout after the match ended 1-1 in regular time. This win has secured Ortega FA's spot in the final, and they will be looking to lift the trophy. In the second semi-final match, Winsome FC overcame Golden Eaglet FC 2-1, booking their place in the final with their skill and determination.

"We are excited to see the two finalists, Ortega FA and Winsome FC, ready to clash in the final. Both teams have shown exceptional skill and determination throughout the tournament, and we expect the final match to be a thrilling encounter," said Mr. Onone Ikrechero, the Tournament Director.

The final match will feature Ortega FA against Winsome FC on November 10th at 3:00 pm at the Ogor Technical College Pitch. Football fans are advised to come out in large numbers to support their favorite teams. The stage is set for an exciting showdown between the two finalists, and it promises to be an unforgettable experience.