Cynosure FC's Coach Okonkwo: Gusau/Ahlan Cup, a Key Step in Achieving Our Project's Objectives

Cynosure FC's head coach, Christian Okonkwo, has emphasized that the team's participation in the 4th Gusau/Ahlan preseason tournament in Lafia is solely focused on achieving the objectives of setting up this special Cynosure FC NPFL project team initiative. According to Coach Okonkwo, the tournament provides a valuable opportunity for the players to showcase themselves and attract deals from top NPFL sides.

"We are in Lafia just for one reason, and that's to achieve the objectives of our NPFL project team initiative," Coach Okonkwo stated. "This tournament is a crucial step in achieving the purpose of providing our experienced and tested players with a platform to showcase their talents and potentially secure contracts in the Nigeria Premier Football League. With the players we have come to Lafia with, I am very assured of making the most of it." With a clear focus on showcasing their talents and gaining valuable experience, Cynosure FC is poised to make a strong impression in the tournament.

The Cynosure FC NPFL project team initiative aims to provide experienced and tested players with a platform to showcase their talents and potentially secure contracts in the Nigeria Premier Football League. The team's participation in the 4th Gusau/Ahlan preseason tournament is a key part of this initiative, allowing them to gain exposure and build their skills against top-level competition.

As Cynosure FC takes part in the tournament, they will face tough opponents and challenging matches. However, with Coach Okonkwo's guidance and the team's determination, they are expected to put up a strong performance and make a statement in Lafia. 

The tournament is scheduled to take place from August 1, 2025, and Cynosure FC's matches are eagerly anticipated by fans and supporters.

Gusau/Ahlan Cup: Cynosure FC to face Plateau United In Lafia on Aug. 2

Cynosure FC will begin it’s 4th Gusau/Ahlan Cup group stage fixtures when they face Plateau United in Lafia on August 2, 2025. Sports Concave reports.

On matchday one of the prestigious pre-season tournament, the Coach Christian Okonkwo tutored side will confront Nigeria Premier Football League side Plateau United at the Lafia City Stadium in Nasarawa State.

That game will take place on August 2 with kickoff by 2pm [Nigerian time].

Coach Okonkwo’s men will be hoping to get off to a winning start in the group C clash.

Cynosure FC FC will also face Kano Pillars and Abuja base side Discovery FC in group C.

The top-two teams in the group after three matchday’s will qualify for the quater-final of the tournament.

Full Matchday Schedule 

1. Friday 1st Aug, 2025: 

Group A: 

Nasarawa United vs. Si14 - 3pm

2. Saturday, 2nd Aug. 2025:

Group C:

Plateau United vs. Cynosure FC - 2pm

Group B:

Niger Tornadoes Vs City Rollers FC - 4pm

3. Sunday 03/08/2025

Group B:

* Wikki Tourists vs. Ben FC - 10am

° Lobi Stars vs. Khalifat FC(Sokoto) - 2pm

Group D:

Katsina United vs. Mighty Jets - 4pm 

4. Monday, 4/08/2025

Group D:

Basira FC vs. Kano Selected FC - 2pm

Group C:

Kano Pillars vs. Discovery FC - 4pm

Cynosure FC Get Kano Pillars In 4th Gusau/Ahlan pre-season football tournament Group Stage

Cynosure FC have been drawn in Group C of the 4th Gusau/Ahlan pre-season football tournament.

Drawn into the Group alongside the centre of attraction are Plateau United, Kano Pillars and Discovery FC (Abuja)

In Group A, Wikki Tourists of Bauchi will compete for the top spot with Nasarawa United FC (Lafia), Ben FC (Jos) and Si14 FC (Keffi)

Niger Tornadoes FC (Minna), Lobi Stars FC (Makurdi), Khalifat FC (Sokoto) and City Rollers FC (Nasarawa) will slug it out in group B.

While in Group D, Katsina United FC (Katsina), Mighty Jets Int'l FC (Jos), Basira FC (Lafia) and Kano Selected FC (Kano) will battle for the top spots.

First Match days for the group stage are Friday 1st - Monday 4th August 2025

Only group winners and runners-up qualify for the quarter-finals.

Enyimba FC 1-1 Cynosure FC: The Bull Praises Unbelievable Character as Team Holds Enyimba FC in Aba

Cynosure FC's NPFL project team head coach, Christian Okonkwo, was full of praise for his players after their incredible backs-against-the-wall display earned them a point against Enyimba FC in a preseason match held on Thursday at the Enyimba FC stadium in Aba.

The 'Bull' tutored side initially conceded in the 15th minute but thrilled the "Elephant" by equalizing with a goal, thanks to Edeh Victor's top-class display, firing in the equalizer in the 75th minute of the encounter. Despite not converting chances late on and seeing a potential win turn into a draw, Coach Okonkwo was thrilled with his players for putting their bodies on the line to grind out a result and maintain a good run in the project campaign.

"We knew how difficult it was going to be to play against a big club like Enyimba FC," Coach Okonkwo said. "Playing against three of the biggest clubs in Nigeria within eight days was an enormous task, and I'm happy with how my players have fared. We struggled in the first 10 to 15 minutes to control certain spaces, and they scored the goal, but we reacted incredibly well."

"We showed unbelievable character and personality, and then we had the game where we wanted it. The players showed again that they are ready in any context, that it's strong. We want clubs in the NPFL to see that they can play at the highest level of league football in Nigeria."

This special Cynosure FC NPFL preseason project is an initiative of the Nationwide League One (NLO) side, designed to provide experienced and tested players who are currently free agents with a platform to showcase their talents. The project aims to give these players an opportunity to demonstrate their skills and potentially secure contracts in the Nigeria Premier Football League.

Tour Results and Upcoming Fixtures

Here are the full results so far from the tour:

- Rangers Intl 0-0 Cynosure FC

- Rivers United 1-0 Cynosure FC

- Enyimba FC 1-1 Cynosure FC

The team will now turn its focus to the 4th Gusau/Ahlan pre-season football tournament, scheduled to hold in Lafia from August 1, 2025.

(C) Cynosure FC Media

Coach Christian Okonkwo's Tactical Genius on Display as Cynosure FC NPFL Project Team Holds Rangers International to a Goalless Draw

In a thrilling preseason friendly match, Coach Christian Okonkwo's Cynosure FC NPFL Project Team held Rangers International to a 0-0 draw, showcasing the coach's tactical acumen and ability to get the best out of his players. Despite being a relatively new team, they proved to be a tough opponent for the former Nigeria Premier Football League champions.

Under the coach's expert guidance, the Cynosure FC NPFL Project Team displayed impressive teamwork and defensive solidity, with players like Ebuka Ogene, Elvis Udo Nnanga, Ogbodo Valentine, James Tega, and Timi Jackson giving a good account of themselves. The team's performance was a proof of Coach Okonkwo's coaching prowess.

After the match, Elvis Udo Nnanga praised the team's effort, saying, "I commend the whole of the technical, administrative staff, and the players for the efforts. We made a good match against a team of RANGERS already organized and which is at the end of its preparation unlike us. We had just a few days of work. I believe we will do better in this preseason tournament. So we will continue to work hard and respect the instructions of the coach to do better."

The Cynosure FC NPFL Project Team is a special initiative designed to provide experienced and tested players who are currently free agents with a platform to showcase their talents and secure contracts from clubs in the Nigeria Premier Football League. With Coach Okonkwo at the helm, the team is poised to make a strong impression in the preseason tournament and beyond.

Coach Okonkwo's Post-Match Insights

"I must say it was a good match. Any day and time, Rangers International is one of the biggest clubs in the country and must be respected. I told the boys this is one opportunity they must take and I am glad with the way they took it. Hopefully, we will get better in the next game. Don't forget, the target is for them to get deals in the NPFL."

NFF appoints Manu Garba, Moses Aduku for Golden Eaglets, Falconets

 

The Executive Committee of the Nigeria Football Federation has approved the recommendation of the Federation’s Technical and Development Sub-Committee for the appointment of experienced strategist, Manu Garba, as Head Coach of the U17 Boys National Team, Golden Eaglets.

 

Garba was Head Coach of the U17 Boys that won the FIFA U17 World Cup trophy for Nigeria - for the fourth time – in the United Arab Emirates in 2013, and has also led the team on two occasions since then, including qualifying the team to the 2019 FIFA U17 World Cup finals in Brazil.

 

The Executive Committee also endorsed the proposal by the Technical and Development Sub-Committee for the appointment of experienced women’s football tactician, Moses Aduku, as Head Coach of the U20 Girls National Team, Falconets. Aduku takes over from Coach Chris Danjuma.

 

Aduku is highly respected in women football coaching circles, having led Bayelsa Queens and Edo Queens football clubs with distinction in recent years. He was also assistant coach of the Nigeria U20 girls, Falconets, as they reached the quarter-finals of the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup finals in Costa Rica in 2022.

 

Both Garba and Aduku will officially resume on Sunday, as their different teams have important upcoming engagements. 

 

The U20 girls have a 2026 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup qualifying fixture against Rwanda in September, while the Golden Eaglets will take part in the WAFU B U17 Boys Tournament that Nigeria is set to host the same month.

WHY COACH EDDY LORD DOMBRAYE IS THE MAN FOR BAYELSA UNITED JOB

Coach Eddy Lord Dombraye is a highly gifted football tactician from Bayelsa, Nigeria. With his impressive background as a former international player and technically sound coach, he is renowned for his ability to discover, develop, and transform football talents into winning teams.

Coach Dombraye's tactical philosophy is built on possession-based, risk-free football balanced with moments of direct, penetrating play. His approach emphasizes control, accuracy, and efficiency in ball movement, with a focus on smart positioning, fast recognition of space, and maintaining possession through short, effective passes. This philosophy aligns perfectly with Bayelsa United's style of play and tactical approach.

As a former Nigerian international, Coach Dombraye has represented the Super Eagles, earning valuable experience and caps for the national team. His playing career has taken him to several countries, including Poland, FR Yugoslavia, and Ukraine, where he played for clubs such as ŁKS Łódź, OFK Beograd, and FC Volyn Lutsk.

Coach Dombraye holds top European licenses, including UEFA C, B, and A Licenses, and has coached several teams, including Arsenal Kiev U-17, Italian Club Ravalleni, and Lobi Stars in the NPFL. His experience in the Nigerian top-flight league gives him a deep understanding of the Nigeria Premier Football League and its unique challenges.

Coach Dombraye's experience in tutoring several Nigeria internationals, including the country's number one goalkeeper, Stanley Nwabali, demonstrates his ability to work with top Nigerian talent and develop players to their full potential. His understanding of the Nigerian football landscape, combined with his European coaching credentials, makes him an ideal candidate to lead Bayelsa United to success.

Coach Dombraye's coaching philosophy aligns with Bayelsa United's style of play, which focuses on developing young talents and creating a resilient and formidable team. His approach emphasizes:

- Possession-based football

- Tactical flexibility

- Youth development

Bayelsa United should seriously consider Coach Dombraye for the top job due to his:

- European-standard coaching credentials

- Tactical intelligence to stabilize and elevate the team

- Ability to develop players technically, mentally, and tactically

- Deep understanding of the Nigeria Premier Football League

- Experience in working with top Nigerian talent

- Bold and fearless approach to coaching

- Bayelsan roots and pride in representing his hometown

- Alignment with the state government's policy of developing and turning young Bayelsans into stars

With his impressive credentials and coaching philosophy, Coach Eddy Lord Dombraye is the ideal candidate to lead Bayelsa United to success.

Ughelli North Football Council Intensifies Preparations for Governor's U-17 Unity Football Competition

The Ughelli North Football Council has intensified its preparations for the upcoming His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Governor of Delta State, U-17 Unity Football Competition. The tournament, designed to promote unity among the youth, will feature teams from the Delta Central Senatorial district, comprising eight local government areas.

The participating teams include Ughelli North, Ughelli South, Udu, Uvwie, Okpe, Ethiope East, Ethiope West, and Sapele. The competition promises to be an exciting display of football talent and sportsmanship.

According to Ughelli North Football Council Chairman, Mr. Onome Ikrechero, the council has put in place all necessary measures to ensure their U-17 team excels in the competition. "We are excited about the prospect of participating in this tournament, which is geared towards advancing unity among our youths," Mr. Ikrechero said. "We have put all machinery in motion to ensure our U-17 side performs well and makes us proud."

Ughelli North will kick off the tournament with an official opening ceremony match against Ethiope East on August 3rd at 3 pm at the Ekpan Police Station Field. With careful preparation and determination, the team is poised to make a strong impression in the competition.

Cynosure FC NPFL Project Kicks Off Preseason with Friendly Match Against Rangers International FC

Cynosure FC, the Ebonyi-based Nationwide League One side, Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) project team, is set to embark on a special preseason project, commencing with a friendly match against Rangers International FC. The highly anticipated encounter is scheduled to take place on Friday, July 25th, 2025, at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium in Enugu, with kickoff set for 9am.

This special NPFL preseason project is an initiative of Cynosure FC, designed to provide experienced and tested players who are currently free agents with a platform to showcase their talents. The project aims to give these players an opportunity to demonstrate their skills and potentially secure contracts in the Nigeria Premier Football League. With talented players expected to feature, the match promises to be an exciting display of football prowess.

As Cynosure FC takes on Rangers International FC, fans will be eager to see some of the talented players who will be participating in the special preseason project. Here are a few players to watch out for:

Elvis Udo Nnanga 

- Elvis Udo Nnanga: A central midfielder with good intelligence, tactical awareness, and physical endurance. He has experience playing in Gabon, Bulgaria, and Angola.

Ogbodo Valentine

- Ogbodo Valentine Chizoba: A versatile center defender with exceptional ball control, two-footed proficiency, and powerful shooting. He has played for Ingas FC and Coal City United.

Timi Jackson (Red)

- Timi Jackson: A dedicated and physically fit defensive midfielder with a strong track record of performance. He has played for several teams, including Cynosure FC, Sticmaclloyd Int'l FC, Heartland FC, and Bayelsa United.

The friendly match between Cynosure FC and Rangers International FC marks the beginning of an exciting preseason project for the Ebonyi-based team. With talented players set to feature and a platform to showcase their skills, this encounter promises to be a thrilling display of football action. Fans and football enthusiasts alike are invited to attend the match and witness the talents of these players firsthand.

Super Eagles B Squad Announced for 8th African Nations Championship

The Nigeria Football Federation has announced the final squad for the Super Eagles B team, led by Head Coach Eric Chelle, for the 8th African Nations Championship. The team features 23 players, including: 

Goalkeepers:

- Henry Ozoemena Ani (Enyimba FC)

- Nurudeen Badmus (Kwara United)

- Lawal Mustapha (Shooting Stars)

Defenders:

- Sodiq Ismaila (Remo Stars)

- Bankole Afeez (Kwara United)

- Taiwo Abdulrafiu (Rivers United)

- Uzondu Harrison (Ikorodu City)

- Junior Harrison Nduka (Remo Stars)

- Ngengen Leonard (Ikorodu City)

- Steven Mayo Egbe (Rivers United)

Midfielders:

- Adedayo Olamilekan (Remo Stars)

- Hadi Haruna (Remo Stars)

- Otaniyi Taofik (Rivers United)

- Akanni Qudus (Remo Stars)

- Michael Tochukwu (Remo Stars)

- Alex Oyowah (Remo Stars)

Forwards:

- Anas Yusuf (Nasarawa United)

- Shola Adelani (Ikorodu City)

- Sikiru Alimi (Remo Stars)

- Temitope Vincent (Plateau United)

- Ijoma Anthony (Abia Warriors)

- Godwin Obaje (Rangers International)

- Jabbar Malik (Remo Stars)

Pre-Tournament Preparations

The team will travel to Zanzibar on Thursday evening for a second-phase training camp from July 25th to 31st. They will also play two friendly matches against the Senior National Team of Zanzibar on July 28th and 31st.

Tournament Fixtures

The Super Eagles B are grouped in Group D with Senegal, Sudan, and Congo. Their fixtures include:

- vs. Senegal at Amman Stadium, Zanzibar

- vs. Sudan at Amman Stadium, Zanzibar

- vs. Congo at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, Dar es Salaam

Let's support our Super Eagles B team!