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.

UGHELLI NORTH FOOTBALL COUNCIL CHAIRMAN EXPECTING THRILLING SEMI-FINALS

The Chairman of the Ughelli North Football Council, Mr. Onone Ikrechero, is anticipating a thrilling semi-final stage in the ongoing 20th edition of the Ughelli Pre-Season Football Competition. The semi-finals promise to be an exciting spectacle, with the best teams competing for a coveted spot in the final.

Mr. Ikrechero expressed his excitement about the upcoming matches, noting that the teams that have made it to the semi-finals have demonstrated exceptional skill and determination. He is confident that the matches will be closely contested and entertaining for fans.

The semi-final fixtures are as follows:

- Ortega FC vs Go Pro FC at 10:00 am

- Golden Eaglets vs Winsome FC at 12:00 noon

Both matches will take place on Friday, November 7th, 2025, at the Ogor Technical College Pitch, Ughelli. Football enthusiasts are advised to come out in large numbers to support their favorite teams.

The Ughelli North Football Council is committed to ensuring that the tournament is a success, and Mr. Ikrechero is looking forward to seeing the teams in action. With the competition heating up, fans can expect an exciting conclusion to the tournament.

UGHELLI PRE-SEASON FOOTBALL TOURNAMENT: SEMI-FINALISTS EMERGE

The Ughelli Pre-Season Football Tournament has reached a thrilling stage, with the semi-finalists emerging after a series of exciting matches. The semi-finals promise to be electrifying, with four top-notch teams battling it out for a spot in the final.

Semi-Final Fixtures

The semi-final matches are scheduled to take place on Friday, 7th November 2025, at the Ogor Technical College Pitch, Ughelli. The fixtures are as follows:

- 10:00 am: Ortega FC vs Go Pro FC

- 12:00 noon: Golden Eaglets vs Winsome FC

Road to the Semi-Finals

The four semi-finalists have demonstrated exceptional skill and determination throughout the tournament. Here's a brief overview of their journey to the semi-finals:

- Ortega FC: Ortega FC's path to the semi-finals has been impressive, with victories over De Sapele Lions (1-0), Cardio FC (3-0), and a draw against ABC Starlet (1-1).

- Go Pro FC: Go Pro FC has shown remarkable form, defeating Excellent FA (2-1) and Ever Ready FC (3-2), and drawing against Young Soccer FC (1-1).

- Golden Eaglets: The Golden Eaglets have been dominant, winning against Destiny Stars FC (2-1), Mormon Stars FC (4-3), and Young Soccer FC (3-2).

- Winsome FC: Winsome FC has been impressive, throttling North Feeders FC (4-0) and Zion Hills FA (7-0).

The stage is set for an exciting semi-final showdown. Which teams will emerge victorious and book their spots in the final? Stay tuned to find out!

Written by Charles Mayuku 

UGHELLI NORTH FOOTBALL COUNCIL CHAIRMAN URGES PLAYERS TO SHUN DRUGS, HOOLIGANISM, AND VIOLENCE

The Chairman of the Ughelli North Football Council, Mr. Onone Ikrechero, has called on players, officials, and fans to reject the use of drugs, hooliganism, and violence in football. Speaking at the ongoing 20th edition of the Ughelli Preseason football competition, Ikrechero emphasized the importance of fair play, sportsmanship, and adherence to the rules of the game.

Ikrechero warned that any form of misconduct, including the use of drugs, hooliganism, and violence, would attract severe sanctions and bans. "In football, we say no to drugs, no to hooliganism, and no to violence," he stated. "The result will be sanction and ban. We must prioritize fair play, play the game, and play by the rules, so that we can enjoy the beautiful game."

The Chairman's call is part of the efforts to promote a positive football culture in the community. By emphasizing the importance of fair play and sportsmanship, Ikrechero aims to create a safe and enjoyable environment for players, officials, and fans alike.

The Ughelli North Football Council remains committed to promoting clean football and ensuring that the game is played with integrity and respect. The council's stance on drugs, hooliganism, and violence is clear, and it will not hesitate to take action against anyone who breaches the rules.

UGHELLI PRE-SEASON CUP 2025: SEMI-FINAL FIXTURES CONFIRMED

We are pleased to announce that Ortega FA and Golden Eaglet have qualified for the semi-finals of the Ughelli Pre-Season Cup 2025. As the tournament progresses, we are approaching the final group games, which will determine the last two teams to join the semi-finals.

New Semi-Final Dates Announced

In light of the upcoming final group games and the need for teams to have adequate rest before the semi-finals, the organizing committee has decided to reschedule the semi-final matches. The new dates for the semi-finals are as follows:

- Sunday, 9th November:

    - 10:00 am: First Semi-Final

    - 12:00 pm: Second Semi-Final

Final Match Date Confirmed

The final match of the Ughelli Pre-Season Cup 2025 will take place on Monday, 10th November, at 3:00 pm. All matches will be played at the Ogor Tech Pitch Ughelli, Delta State 

We appreciate the understanding and cooperation of all teams, officials, and fans as we make these adjustments to ensure a successful tournament. We look forward to an exciting conclusion to the Ughelli Pre-Season Cup 2025.

Signed

Mr Onome Ikrechero 

CEO, Ughelli Pre-Season 2025

20th Edition

UGHELLI PRE-SEASON CUP 2025: EXCITING MATCHES ON DAY 5 & 6

The Ughelli Pre-Season Cup 2025 is heating up, with thrilling matches played on Day 5 and more action-packed fixtures lined up for today, November 6th, in the final group games.

Day 5 Highlights

The fifth day of the tournament saw some nail-biting encounters, with Golden Eaglet emerging victorious over Young Soccer Fc with a 3-2 win. In another match, Soccer Stars Fc edged out Morning Stars Fc 2-1, while Cardio Fc's day was capped off with a convincing 0-3 loss to Ortega FA. De Sapele Lions and ABC Starlet played out a goalless draw.

Today's Fixtures: Day 6

The final group games of the Ughelli Pre-Season Cup 2025 will be played today, November 6th, at the Ughelli Stadium. The matches are scheduled to kick off at different times:

- 11:00 am: Winsome Fc vs. Zion Hills FA

- 1:00 pm: Young Soccer FA vs. Go Pro Fc

- 3:00 pm: Excellent FA vs. Ever Ready Fc

These matches promise to be thrilling, with teams battling it out for a spot in the next stage of the tournament. Football fans in Ughelli and beyond are eagerly anticipating the action, which will unfold at the Ughelli Stadium today.

The Ughelli Pre-Season Cup 2025 has been a showcase of talent and sportsmanship, and the final group games are expected to be just as exciting. Follow us for live updates, scores, and highlights from the tournament.

Rivers State Emerging as Nigeria's Premier Sports Hub, Says Commissioner Chris Green

Rivers State Commissioner for Sports, Barrister Chris Green, has proudly declared that the state is rapidly becoming the hub of sports development in Nigeria. Speaking at the 2025 Annual General Meeting of the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) in Port Harcourt, Green emphasized that Rivers State's vibrant sporting calendar is a result of strategic investment in sports infrastructure and planning.

According to Green, the state's ability to host major national and continental events is not a coincidence, but an evidence to its commitment to developing sports. 

"It's no coincidence that Rivers State is fast becoming the hub of sports in Nigeria. It's unprecedented," he stated. The commissioner highlighted the state's recent hosting of the NBBF basketball league playoffs and its upcoming hosting of the final four, as evidence of its growing reputation as a premier sports destination.

Green assured delegates that Rivers State is committed to supporting women's football and will continue to host more national tournaments and championships. 

"On behalf of His Excellency, the Governor of Rivers State, I welcome all of you to Port Harcourt. We are happy to have you here," he said. "This is the first time that Rivers State is hosting this kind of event. I want to assure you that we are going to host more of this."

The commissioner also emphasized the importance of sports in promoting unity and camaraderie, noting that "football is all about charity and friendship." He reaffirmed the state government's determination to make Port Harcourt a regular host of key sporting events, while building an enabling environment for athletes to excel nationally and internationally.

Under the leadership of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Rivers State is poised to continue its upward trajectory in sports development, providing a platform for athletes to shine and promoting the state's reputation as a hub for sports excellence.