FIFA has warned the South African government over Fraud

Fifa, world football's governing body, have written to the South African government warning them against a judicial inquiry into the recent match-fixing scandals, saying the matter should be handled by the country's football association.

Several of South Africa's warm-up matches before they hosted the 2010 World Cup were found to have been fixed, which led to the brief suspension of senior South African Football Association (Safa) officials, including its president Kirsten Nematandani.
South Africa's Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (Sascoc) recommended a judicial commission of inquiry but Fifa warned them of possible consequences should the government be seen to be intervening in football matters.


South Africa's sports minister Fikile Mbalula told local media he would travel to Fifa headquarters in Zurich next week to discuss the issue with world football's governing body.
"Sascoc have made a recommendation to us that we must go ahead with a judicial commission of inquiry into the matter," Mbalula said.


"Match-fixing is about fraud, corruption and mismanagement. There is a rule of law in South Africa. Where there are suspicions, they must be investigated. Safa must understand that you can't be a referee and player at the same time," he said.


Safa vice president Danny Jordaan told the Reuters news agency that his organisation had already asked police to investigate the matter.


Nematandani and four other top officials were briefly suspended in December following a report from Fifa, about the alleged rigging of four matches in the run-up to the 2010 World Cup. The Fifa investigation discovered that Safa was infiltrated by convicted Singaporean match-fixer Wilson Perumal and his Football 4U organisation.







Credit to BBC

Fulltime Results of the Nigeria Professional Football League WEEK 5 LIVESCORE

FT' Akwa United 3-0 Bayelsa United

FT' 3SC 3-2 Wikki Tourists

FT' ABS 2-3 Kano Pillars

FT' Sharks 0-0 Dolphins

FT' Heartland 4-0 Gombe United

FT' Rangers 3-1 kwara United

FT' Nasarawa United 3-1 Kaduna United

FT' Enyimba 0-0 Warri Wolves

FT' Nembe City 2-1 El-Kanemi-Warriors

Sunshine Stars vs Lobi Stars (Postponed)

HALFTIME: Nigeria Professional Football League WEEK 5 LIVESCORE

HT' Akwa United 2-0 Bayelsa United

HT' 3SC 3-0 Wikki Tourists

HT' ABS 0-2 Kano Pillars

HT' Sharks 0-0 Dolphins

HT' Heartland 3-0 Gombe United

HT' Rangers 1-0 kwara United

HT' Nasarawa United 0-0 Kaduna United

HT' Enyimba 0-0 Warri Wolves

HT' Nembe City 2-1 El-Kanemi-Warriors

Sunshine Stars vs Lobi Stars (Postponed)

Nigeria Professional Football League: WEEK 5 LIVESCORE

22' Akwa United 0-0 BAYELSA UNITED

22' 3SC 2-0 Wikki Tourists

22' ABS 0-2 Kano Pillars
Sunshine Stars vs Lobi Stars (Postponed)

22' Sharks 0-0 Dolphins

22' Heartland 0-0 Gombe United

22' Rangers 0-0 kwara United

22' NASARAWA UNITED 0-0 Kaduna United

22' Enyimba 0-0 Warri Wolves

22' Nembe City 0-0 El-Kanemi-Warriors

Brasil 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup: Blatter Meets Brasil's Sport Minister

FIFA President Joseph S. Blatter,  FIFA Secretary General Jérôme Valcke and Brazil’s Sports Minister Aldo Rebelo spoke with the media following their meeting to discuss issues related to the organisation of the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup and 2014 FIFA World Cup™.

The organisational meeting, which lasted for two hours, involved divisions of the Local Organising Committee and the FIFA divisions; serving to update members of the FIFA Executive Committee and the Organising Committee.

It was later announced that the Final Draw for the 2014 FIFA World Cup will take place at Costa do Sauipe in Bahia at 13.00 local time (17.00 CET) on 6 December 2013.

FIFA President, Joseph S. Blatter
It has been a pleasure and honour to receive Aldo Rebelo today at the Home of FIFA. And we are very happy how the population of Brazil is receiving this World Cup. I’m sure that the five time winners will present an outstanding competition in 2014. It’s a question of trust and confidence – and from FIFA’s side, it’s totally there. We still have more than a year to go and I am confident that through its economic power and strength of will, Brazil will be ready and deliver a wonderful World Cup.

But first we look forward to the Confederations Cup, the Festival of Champions. I will be present from the beginning until the end of that tournament and I will visit all the Host Cities for Brazil 2014 and meet all of their governors. I want to reiterate to the government of Brazil, especially the President, my respects and friendship.

FIFA Secretary-General, Jérôme Valcke
We received an update on the six FIFA Confederations Cup stadiums and also the six additional FIFA World Cup stadiums. We have agreed that the deadline of December 2013 is key for  the preparation of the FIFA World Cup. We need time to be ready to welcome the thousands of journalists and fans in June 2014, so all the facilities and infrastructures can be fully utilised. The partnership between the Brazilian Government, the Local Organising Committee and FIFA is a strong and full one.

Aldo Rebelo, Brazil Sports Minister
The Salvador stadium will be delivered next week, with the President being present for that inauguration. The other stadiums will also be delivered within the agreed timeframe, with the test events already scheduled. I think the presence of the FIFA President during the Confederations Cup will be extremely important, so he can see with his own eyes the preparations for  in all twelve World Cup host cities and the work which has already been done there.

We have made progress, due to the spirit of co-operation and harmony that exists between the Federal Government, the regional governments, the municipalities, the LOC and FIFA.  The preparations for the World Cup will meet the expectations of the organisers and, of course of Brazil.  We, the federal government, reaffirm our commitment to work with the host cities to have the other six FIFA World Cup stadia ready by December 2013 as agreed with FIFA.  I am confident that we will meet all the challenges and fulfil the promises. This is a vital event for Brazil. We’re delighted and honoured to be able to host it.











Credit to FIFA.COM

Liverpool defeated Aston Villa at home

Aston Villa Park is the first Premier League away ground that Liverpool have recorded 10+ win.

Liverpool's skipper, Steven Gerrard scored the winning goal during today's match.

Aston Villa were left in deep relegation trouble yet again after Liverpool fought back from a goal down to seal victory at Villa Park.

Paul Lambert's side took the lead when Gabriel Agbonlahor's lay-off found Christian Benteke, who powered home.

Liverpool equalised shortly after the restart when Jordan Henderson dinked the ball past the reach of Brad Guzan.

And Steven Gerrard scored the winner from the spot after Nathan Baker brought down Luis Suarez in the area.

Footballers Celebrating their birthdays this Month

We present to you with some of the biggest names in football who will be celebrating their birthdays over the coming week.

31. Eddie Johnson (29) is one of the American national team’s most experienced front men, having previously taken part in the 2006 FIFA World Cup Germany™. Currently involved in the Stars and Stripes’ quest to reach Brazil 2014, he also played at the Copa America and the CONCACAF Gold Cup in 2007, emerging victorious in the latter competition. At the outset of his career, he participated in the 2001 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Trinidad and Tobago, before finishing as top scorer at the U-20 equivalent in the UAE two years later. At club level, the pacey striker started out in the MLS with FC Dallas and then Kansas City Wizards, before moving to English outfit Fulham. Following loan spells at Cardiff City, Aris (Greece) and Preston North End, he returned to the USA to join Seattle Sounders last season. Johnson has won the MLS Comeback Player of the Year Award on two occasions, in 2007 and 2012.



1. Clarence Seedorf (37) is one of the most successful footballers to emerge from the Netherlands, having amassed a host of medals and awards during his career. He represented the Oranje at the 1998 FIFA World Cup and at three UEFA European Championships in a row between 1996 and 2004. The athletic midfielder came through the ranks at Ajax, establishing himself in the senior XI and helping the club to win two Dutch League titles, one Dutch Cup, two Dutch Super Cups and a UEFA Champions League crown. He then signed for Sampdoria, where his strong performances attracted the interest of Real Madrid. The Dutchman significantly expanded his footballing CV in the Spanish capital, securing a Liga championship, a Spanish Super Cup, a UEFA Champions League title and an Intercontinental Cup. A subsequent transfer to Inter Milan was followed by a move to city rivals AC Milan, where Seedorf would spend a highly productive ten years, claiming two Serie A titles, an Italian Cup, two Italian Super Cups, two further UEFA Champions League titles and the 2007 FIFA Club World Cup, a tournament at which he finished just behind Kaka in the voting for the adidas Golden Ball award. At the start of this season, he surprised many across the world of football by putting pen to paper with Brazilian side Botafogo, with whom he lifted the Guanabara Cup in mid-March.



2. Teddy Sheringham (47) was instrumental in Manchester United’s amazing last-gasp comeback against Bayern Munich in the 1999 UEFA Champions League final, scoring the equalising goal before heading the ball down to team-mate Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who secured a dramatic victory for the Red Devils. Sheringham’s time at Old Trafford coincided with a golden era for United, as they also landed three Premier League titles, an FA Cup, a Charity Shield and an Intercontinental Cup over a four-year period. The skilful striker won second division titles with Millwall and Swedish outfit Djurgardens, and also enjoyed spells at Aldershot Town, Nottingham Forest and Tottenham Hotspur, where he finished as Premier League top goalscorer, before he headed north to Manchester. After leaving United, he re-signed for Tottenham, before going on to play for Portsmouth, West Ham, with whom he reached the FA Cup final, and Colchester United. On the international stage, he donned an England jersey at UEFA EURO 1996 and at two FIFA World Cups, in 1998 and 2002. Sheringham was named English Footballer of the Year in 2001.



3. Stephanie Cox (27) competed at the FIFA Women’s World Cup Germany 2011™ with the United States, losing out in the final, and at the 2007 tournament in China, where she had to content herself with a third-place finish. The solid defender also earned a gold medal at the 2008 Women’s Olympic Football Tournament in Beijing. In her youth, she appeared at two FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup tournaments (Thailand 2004 and Russia 2006), finishing third and fourth respectively. In terms of domestic football, Cox starred for Los Angeles Sol and Boston Breakers, before committing herself to Seattle Sounders at the start of the season.




4. Emerson (37) made a significant contribution to the Brazilian national side, appearing at France 1998 and Germany 2006. He also held aloft the 2005 FIFA Confederations Cup and the 1999 Copa America. Having turned professional at Gremio, he picked up winners’ medals in the Brazilian League, Brazilian Cup (twice), Rio Grande do Sul State Championship (twice), Copa Libertadores and Recopa Sudamericana. He gained his first taste of European football at Bayern Leverkusen, prior to joining Roma, with whom he attained the Serie A title and the Italian Super Cup. A move to Juventus saw the combative defensive midfielder enjoy two Italian League triumphs, although one of those was later revoked due to the Calciopoli affair. Emerson tried his luck with Real Madrid, securing a Spanish Championship ten months later, before being transferred to AC Milan, where he hoisted the UEFA Super Cup and the 2007 FIFA Club World Cup. He then returned to his homeland to see out his career with Santos.



5. Thomas Hitzlsperger (31) was a member of the Germany squads that earned third place at the 2006 FIFA World Cup Germany and at the 2005 FIFA Confederations Cup, and that lost the final of EURO 2008. As a youngster, the central midfielder played at the 1999 FIFA U-17 World Cup and the 2004 UEFA European U-21 Championship. Having come through the ranks at English side Aston Villa, he signed for Stuttgart, where he claimed the Bundesliga title. Hitzlsperger has gone on to wear the colours of Lazio, West Ham, Wolfsburg and Everton, the club he joined in October 2012.



6. Diana Matheson (29) helped Canada to emerge as a true force in the female game, participating in the last three FIFA Women’s World Cup tournaments. At USA 2003, she and her team-mates finished fourth in what was the Canucks’ maiden appearance at the prestigious event. The speedy midfielder has also enjoyed Olympic success, reaching the quarter-finals at Beijing 2008 and winning a bronze medal at London 2012. Matheson turned out for Toronto Inferno and Ottawa Fury in Canada, and for LSK Kvinner in Norway. She recently signed a contract with Washington Spirit of the National Women's Soccer League.










Credit to FIFA.COM

Sharks FC coach Gbenga Ogunbote clears the air about his contract

The Newly Employed Sharks FC coach, Ogunbote has opened up about his employment terms.

The Coach told Sportdiva.net that the issue of his contract is all of a sudden a big deal and that its his own personal business, he said 'Well, The issue of me signing a contract for Sharks FC is everywhere and I wonder why people are so interested in it, as far as I'm concerned its my business and I will keep it to myself its not for the public consumption whether I sign a contract or not'


'Officially my appointment with Sharks FC will start on Tuesday next week' he added


Speaking further to Sportdiva.net about his plan, he said he's here to lift up the club to higher grounds, he said 'I'm here to excel, I'm also here to take Sharks FC to a higher and achievable ground in the Premier League and together with the players and officials cooperation we will get there'

He refused to make any comment whether he wants to win the League or not he only said 'I don't want to react for now, whether we are going to win the league or not just watch out' he concluded

Gbenga Ogunbote was the Head Coach of Sunshine Stars of Akure.




Article by Aderonke Ogunleye

U 20 FIFA World Cup 2013: Nigeria is in Group B

FIFA Under 20 World Cup draw for Africa was concluded today immediately after the final match between EGYPT and GHANA in which EGYPT became the new African champion, the runner up goes to GHANA and the 3rd place goes to NIGERIA Flying eagles and the 4th position is MALI.


Nigeria has once again escaped the Group of Death by scaling through to the Group B of the tournament making Korea Republic the only threat of the Group.



Second runner up of the just concluded tournament Ghana is in the Group of death with France, USA and Spain.


The 4 countries would represent Africa in the FIFA U20 World cup in few months time.

GHANA who came 2nd in the just concluded AYC will be playing in Group A that involved FRANCE, USA and SPAIN.


While Group B would have former African champion NIGERIA flying eagles, KOREA REP, PORTUGAL and CUBA.


Group C is made up of. MEXICO, GREECE, MALI and PARAGUAY and Group D will see new African champion EGYPT, CHILE, ENGLAND and IRAQ

Group A:

France
Ghana
USA
Spain

Group B:

Cuba
Korea Rep
Nigeria
Portugal

Group C:

Mexico
Greece
Paraguay
Mali

Group D:

Chile
Egypt
England
Iraq

The event will take place in Turkey this year, Brazil is the defending Champion.


Article by Raji Kazeem

Nigeria National League NNL WeeK 15 Results

Sportdiva.net has done the compilation of all the matches that was played today at the Nigeria National League.

Below are the scores

* GROUP A

¤ PLATEAU UTD 3:1 KOGI UTD

¤ SPOTLIGHT 2:0 GIWA FC

¤ TORNADOES 1:0 JUTH FC




* GROUP B

¤ GATEWAY 2:0 GABROS

¤ RISING STARS 0-0 INSURANCE

¤ FOUNTAIN 2:0 UNICEM ROVERS

¤ ABIA COMETS 2:1 REMO STARS

¤ PRIME FC 4:2 MFM FC

¤ C.O.D UNITED 0:0 AKWA STARLET






Article by Kazeem Raji

Nigeria Professional Football League Week 5 Preview

The Nigeria Professional Football League enters week 5 this weekend as we see a local derby in Port harcourt when SHARKS FC engage with DOLPHIN FC in shark stadium and KADUNA UNITED will travel to Lafia to visit NASARAWA UNITED at Lafia township stadium. SUNSHINE STARS match against LOBI STARS would not be hold due to LOBI STARS continental engagement.

The Ilorin township stadium will be fill with spectators as ABS FC play host to the defending champion KANO PILLARS and RANGERS INT'L will lay ambush for KWARA UNITED at Nnamdi Azikwe stadium in Enugu, AKWA UNITED will host BAYELSA UNITED at Uyo township stadium.


ENYIMBA INT'L will be at Aba township stadium to welcome WARRI WOLVE in another cracking encounter while NEMBE CITY will be commanding the maximum points against EL-KANEMI WARRIORS of Maiduguri at Samson Siasia stadium in Yenagoa.


HEARTLAND FC will play host to GOMBE UNITED at Dan Anyiam stadium Owerri and Lekan Salami will be filled with spectators as 3SC will be seeking for maximum points against WIKKI TOURIST of Bauchi.





Article by Kazeem Raji

Ahmed Musa becomes a Father

Super Eagles/CSKA Moscow skipper and the African Cup of Nations hero has become a father.

Ahmed Musa's wife, Jamila Musa gave birth to a baby boy in Kano this evening.

Ahmed Musa told sportdiva.net that 'Yes I am the happiest Man alive right now, the Mother and the baby boy are doing well'

Ahmed furthermore confirmed that he will attend the naming ceremony, he said 'why not, I will be there of course he's my first child and I will have to name him'

Ahmed Musa got married to his wife in December 2011

Article by Aderonke Ogunleye

Gossip: Daniel Amokachi floats a football Academy

Sportdiva.net has scooped from an unconfirmed source that the Super Eagles Assistant Coach, Daniel Amokachi is going to launch his own Football Academy in Nigeria very soon.

Daniel Amokachi didn't pick up his call when we tried to reach him for a confirmation.

Sportdiva.net will find out and get back to our esteemed readers if the rumour is True or False




Article by Aderonke Ogunleye

My 'only one' wish is to qualify Nigeria for FIFA 2014 World Cup - Stephen Keshi

The Super Eagles Coach of Nigeria, Stephen Okechukwu Keshi has said that his only one wish is to take Nigeria to Brazil for the next year's FIFA world cup.

Speaking exclusively to sportdiva.net the Head Coach of the team said 'My only one wish is to be the coach that will qualify the Nation for the FIFA 2014 World Cup after that I will be fulfilled'

Stephen Keshi who's the only African Man alive who has won the African Cup of Nations as a Coach and as a player said his relationship with his players are very cordial, 'Yes I'm very close to all my players, I have a brother and father relationship with all of them but I will not allow that to stop what I have to do. It has a limit and when we get to the boss line we cross it and they know it'

The Super Eagles played draw in Calabar during the first leg of their World Cup 2014 qualifier against Kenya.

The date of the return leg of the qualifier that will be played in Nairobi, Kenya is still sketchy.






Article by Aderonke Ogunleye

Top scorers of the Nigeria Premier League as at week 4 of the 2012/2013 League season

sportdiva.net is bringing you a quick review of all that has gone down in the past 4 weeks since the commencement of the 2012/2013 league season.

Below are the names of the top scorers so far in the Nigeria professional Football League(NPFL)

Uche Ihiarulam Bayelsa United 3goals

Bishop Onyeudo Gombe utd. 3goals

Tony Edjomariegwe. 3sc. 2goals

Ubong Ekpai. Akwa utd. 2goals

Victor Namo. Nasarawa utd. 2goals

Dele Olorundare. Sunshine Stars FC. 2goals

Isah Akoh. Heartland FC. 2goals

Nojeem Olukokun. Kwara United. 2goals

Ajani Ibrahim. Sunshine Stars. 2goals

Haruna Babalo. EL-Kanemi. 2goals

Gambo Muhammed. Pillars FC. 2goals


Meanwhile there are 46 players who has scored a 1goal each for their clubs.


More footballing actions will continue this weekend.






Article by Aderonke Ogunleye

Chelsea FC to play a friendly match with Manchester City in America

Chelsea Football Club is delighted to announce that they will be returning to America at the end of this season to play Manchester City.

The club will face the current Barclays Premier League champions at the Busch Stadium, home of the Cardinals MLB team in St Louis, on May 23 with a 7.30pm local time kick-off.

It makes for an exciting end to the campaign, which also began in America last summer when we played matches in Seattle, Philadelphia and Miami as well as New York, and presents another opportunity for our Stateside support to see the Blues in action before we travel to Asia to prepare for the 2013/14 season.

Chelsea Chief Executive Ron Gourlay said

'It's an excellent opportunity for the club to be able to return to America so quickly after our successful tour there last July,' he said.

'The club and the players have enjoyed regularly travelling to the US and also helping to create long-term growth and sustainability of soccer in the country through our super club network.

'We will face the strongest opposition in Manchester City and I am sure we will provide a competitive and entertaining match in St Louis.'

African Youth Championship 2013: Nigeria received a bronze medal

Nigeria made amends for missing out on defending their title by beating Mali 2-1 to finish with bronze at the 2013 Orange CAF U-20 Championship.

By reaching the semi-finals both teams qualified for FIFA U-20 World Cup and for the greater part of the match cantered their way through the stages with odd flashes of constructive football here and there during a match played at Ahmed Zabana stadium in Oran.

A brace from striker Aminu Umar ensured that it was The Flying Eagles and not The Eaglets who claimed third spot in the competition.
Mali scored a late goal on 87th minute through Tiekoro Keita to make it an interesting end but it was Nigeria’s night.

It was an Adama Niane goal that won it for Mali the last time these two meet and the same striker had the first meaningful chance of the game with a header from a corner kick.

The Nigerian defenders manage to scrabble if off the goal line.
Nigeria then went to the other end of the pitch and good interchange play between Chidi Osuchukwu and Abdullahi Shehu released Abduljeleel Ajagun who shot was on target but well saved by Ali Yirango in goal for Mali.

Perhaps the best action in the first half came in the 40th minute from impressive Abdoulaye Keita who picked up striker Hamidou Traore with a delightful 40m long ball into the box.

Traore took it down well with his right foot before shooting with the other only to see Nigerian goalkeeper, Jonah Usman beat away the shot.

Keita was not finished and delighted the crowd a minute later when he ran past his marker before letting a rocket of a shot that again needed Usman at his best to prevent Mali taking the lead.

In the 72nd minute an intelligent cut back from a free kick picked up Ajagun on the edge of box, while everyone was expecting a cross.

Ajagun’s well taken shot was blocked on goal line but Aminu Umar reacted quickest to stab home the opening goal of the match.

Boasted by the goal Nigeria were in ascendancy and on 82nd minute Umar scored his and Nigeria’s second from the penalty spot.

It Umar who was fouled by Boubacar Diarra as he jumped for a high ball in the box. The striker picked himself up and sent Yirango the wrong way but Mali refused to lie down and mounted a late charge.

On 87th minute winger Tiekoro Keita scored after keeper Usman had spilt a shot.

It was Mali in a hurry to get an equalizer and it almost came a minute from the end when pressure on Nigeria goal left Hamidou Traore with a chance to score but he hurried his attempt and it sailed over the bar and Nigeria then hung on to finish third

Article by Joyfmonline

Florence Omagbemi should be the next Super Falcons Coach – Ayo Omidiran

 
The deputy chairman of the house committee of sport and the former Nigeria national team coordinator, Ayo Omidiran told sportdiva.net that Florence Omagbemi should be considered for the Falcons job.

Ms Omidiran explained that during her tenure as the chairman for women football development in Nigeria there were few female coaches that are qualified for the job but things has really changed today, she said ‘When I was the chairman for women football development we had only male coaches we didn’t push for a woman technical crew because of their level of experience’

She said further that ‘now things are different, we have a lot of them (Female Coaches)’

When sportdiva.net asked her to nominate a qualified female coach in Nigeria, Honourable Ayo Omidiran said ‘I have worked with Florence Omagbemi during the U20 female national team camping I saw her work and I think certainly she’s capable of handling the female national team as the head coach’

‘that’s not say others are not qualified compare to the others that I have seen that worked and I have seen also the way the girls reacted and relate to her, they listen to her and they bond well’

She quickly defends her statement by handling all decisions over to the Nigeria football federation. She said ‘however the decision to choose a coach depends squarely on the Nigeria football federations technical committee let’s see how things work out’ she concluded

The Nigeria Football Federation will soon announce the names of the head coach and assistants of the super falcons.

Former head coach, Kadiri Ikhana resigned after his failure to play at the semi-finals of the last African women championship in Equatorial Guinea.

Article by Aderonke Ogunleye

Nigeria Basketball Federation held a refresher course for Game masters

The Nigeria Basketball Federation held a refresher course for Game masters across the federation in Abuja on Thursday.

The course was well attended by over 20 Game masters in Abuja and each participant was given a certificate each after the event.

The course held on the match rest day for all the teams participating in the ongoing zenith bank women's basketball league going on at the package B part of the national stadium.

Speaking to sportdiva.net after the course President of the Basketball Federation said 'Game masters course is used to train secondary school Games masters, today we have some of the best coaches in the country that spoke to them on how to develop grassroot basketball'

One on One Exclusive interview with Andre Iniesta

In the minds of many in the game, Andres Iniesta is nothing short of the perfect player. Cerebral, elegant and decisive, not only does the versatile midfielder make both Barcelona and Spain tick, he also scored the most important goal in the latter’s history – the firmly struck right-foot shot that sank the Netherlands in the Final of the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™.
 
Ten years on from breaking through on the international stage when Spain finished second at the UAE 2003 edition of the FIFA U-20 World Cup, this native of Fuentealbilla in Albacete is showing no signs of letting up. Indeed, one of the stars of La Selección’s triumph at UEFA EURO 2012 could recently be seen sharing the podium at 7 January’s FIFA Ballon d’Or Gala with Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

he spoke at the event in Zurich, Iniesta spoke about what inspires him, his childhood heroes and upcoming challenges for club and country.

Vincent Kompany bought a football club

While most footballers splash their cash on women, cars and other flashy goods, Vincent Kompany has opted to buy the struggling Belgian third division side FC Bleid.

 

FIFA to conduct draw after Algeria 2013 U-20 Championship final

FIFA announces that a draw will be conducted  on 30th of March 2013 to determine  which groups the teams finishing second, third and fourth at the on-going 2013 African U-20 Youth Championship will be in for the FIFA U-20 World Cup,Turkey 2013.

 

After FIFA organized a draw in Turkey on March 25, 2013, for the final tournament of the World Championship the eventual African U-20 winners have been drawn in a group designated as  "African champion " and Saturday’s draw will be about placing the remaining three teams which have been designated as “CAF” after the draw on March 25,2013 into other groups.

The draw will take place after the final match between Egypt and Ghana and the  medal ceremony on 30th  March 2013 at Ahmed Zabana Stadium in Oran, Algeria.

photo and article credit to cafonline

FIFA to hold Seminar for referees and assistant referees

Seminars for prospective referees and assistant referees for the 2014 FIFA World Cup™ 

 

NFF writes FIFA, CAF on tricky June duel

The Nigeria Football Federation on Thursday wrote to world
football-governing body, FIFA and the African body, CAF over tricky
2014 FIFA World Cup qualifying games and the FIFA Confederations Cup,
all in the month of June.

Oscar Pistorius can leave South Africa for international competitions

A judge has ruled that Pistorius, the Olympic athlete charged with murdering his girlfriend on Valentine's Day, may leave South Africa for international competitions. However, there are significant conditions to Pistorius' travel rights; he must file travel plans with authorities at least a week before departing, and he must surrender his passport within 24 hours of returning to South Africa. Oscar Pistorius can leave South Africa.

Nigeria will play Kenya on the 5th of June - Green

Nigeria will play the 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifier return leg on the 5th of June 2013 in Nairobi, Chairman technical committees of Nigeria Football Federation has told sportdiva.net today in Abuja.

EXCLUSIVE: FBI probe into alleged corruption in international football

FBI has cooperating witness for football fraud probe: sources

An FBI probe into alleged corruption in international football has recently intensified after investigators persuaded a key party to be a cooperating witness, U.S. law enforcement sources said.
 

Nigeria Golden Eaglets battle Raul at Old Trafford

Some  Golden Eaglets would have a once in a life opportunity of playing against one of  their heroes on Friday when they  tackle Al-Sadd Football Club complete with legendary Spanish star, Raul Gonzalez at the Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium -popularly known  in Doha asthe Old Trafford .

Pedro Rodriguez will be out of action for 10 days

Barcelona winger Pedro Rodriguez will be out of action for 10 days after pulling a muscle in his leg during Tuesday's 1-0 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil™ qualifying victory in France, his club said on Wednesday.

Pedro scored the winning goal before being substituted for club team-mate Cesc Fabregas in the 76th minute.

Van Persie to end his career at Manchester United

Robin van Persie has admitted he may end his career at Manchester United. The 29-year-old Netherlands striker says the fact United have a track record in valuing older players such as Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes may persuade him to see out his playing days at Old Trafford too.



Robin Van Persie

Lesbianism/Homosexualism is banned in Nigerian Football - Hon Godfrey Gaiya

The Chairman of the house committee on sports, Honourable Godfrey Gaiya has reacted  to the ongoing lesbianism ban in the Female football in Nigeria.


Hon. Godfrey Gaiya, Chairman House Committee on Sports

Speaking EXCLUSIVELY to sportdiva.net Gaiya said 'Nigeria is right by banning lesbianism, the laws of the land does not recognize lesbianism its not in our constitution, Nigeria legal syatem doesn't permit homosezuals be it male or female footballer so thats the first and foremost'

Ghanian referees snubbed by FIFA ahead of 2014 Word Cup

Ghanaian referees have been left out of selected match officials for the journey to the 2014 FIFA World Cup billed for Brazil.

Twenty-one match officials comprising seven referees plus 14 assistants have been pencilled in the continent's prospective list put together by the world soccer governing body, FIFA.

The news will come as bitter pill for Ghanaian 'knights of the whistle' after being overlooked for the Africa Cup of Nations, where only assistants Abdul Salif Malik and David Laryea made the cut.

GNA Sports can confirm that Tunisia and Senegal have a set each (a referee and two assistants), with the rest emerging from Gambia, Cote d'Ivoire, Algeria, Morocco, Burundi, Rwanda, Eritrea, Nigeria and South Africa.
 

Ghana and Nigeria to clash in April - Francis Asare

The Ghana Baseball and Softball Association has confirmed April 26 and 27 international friendly with Nigeria in Tema Park, Accra.

 

Nigeria will qualify for World Cup - Kanu Nwankwo

Former Eagles skipper Kanu Nwankwo has called on Nigerians to rally round the super weagles casoch and support him.

Speaking to sportdiva.net after the Kenya match in Calabar , he said ‘The boys played well, they had a draw which is better than nothing and of course they are African champions, the pressure is on them but Nigerians want to beat Kenya 4 -0 its football anything can happen’

FCT SWAN builds Secretariat in Abuja

The Sports writer Association of Abuja (SWAN) FCT Chapter led by Kayode Adeniyi will start the construction of their secretariat in Abuja, an official has revealed.

 Kayode Adeniyi, Chairman FCT SWAN

WWE Star Hospitalized After Tearing Anus

Former WWE star "X-Pac" Waltman literally tore muscles in his rear end recently during his match at a Jerry Lynn retirement event.

Former France striker Bernard Lacombe apologizes for sexist jibe

Embroiled by successive racism scandals throughout much of the season, football was engulfed in a sexism storm on Wednesday after a leading ex-French international footballer advised women to look after their "pots and pans" rather than talk about the sport.

Confederation Cup: Tickets, hospitality windows close Thursday

Nigeria’s football family, Government officials, NFF partners and
other stakeholders interested in tickets and hospitality packages for
summer’s FIFA Confederations Cup tournament in Brazil have only until
Thursday, 28th March to indicate interest.

Liverpool legend Ian St John was in Texas last week with the LFC America supporters' club

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Egypt for 2014 FIFA World Cup

Egypt moved closer towards a spot in the final stage of the African qualifiers for the 2014 FIFA World Cup, beating Zimbabwe 2-1 on Tuesday in Alexandria.


Mohammed Aboutreika

The clash marked day 3 of Group G of the Brazil 2014 World Cup qualifying series. Saudi-based midfielder Hosni Abd Rabo opened the scorings for the Pharaohs after 65 minutes from a powerful free kick, before Knowledge Musona equalized for the visitors a quarter-of-an hour from time.  Talisman Mohamed Aboutreika scored from the spot three minutes to the end to give Egypt a much needed victory.

Asia: 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil qualifiers

Monumental results marked out the latest matchday in Asia, with upsets produced and surprises unfolding. Group B’s leaders Japan, needing just a point to seal their early progression, were denied after losing 2-1 at the hands of Jordan. Australia, meanwhile, were forced to battle from two goals down to earn a point against Oman at home. 

 

Elsewhere, Korea Republic edged Qatar 2-1 in dramatic fashion courtesy of Son Heungmin’s stoppage-time match-winner in Group A’s early game. And it was Uzbekistan who restored their place at the section’s summit with a solitary-goal defeat of Lebanon. Join FIFA.com as we review these epic match-ups. 

Final qualifying round, matchday 7 results
Tuesday 26 March
Group A: Uzbekistan 1-0 Lebanon, Korea Republic 2-1 Qatar
Group B: Jordan 2-1 Japan, Australia 2-2 Oman

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credit - fifa.com

South America: 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil qualifiers

Group leaders Argentina played out the only draw on Matchday 12 of the South American qualifying competition for the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil™, taking a useful point from their testing trip to Bolivia. 

 

Meanwhile, Ecuador put four goals past struggling Paraguay to move back into second place at the expense of Colombia, who went down 1-0 to neighbours Venezuela, a result that keeps La Vinotinto’s hopes intact.

In the day’s other game Chile saw off Uruguay to move into fourth and one of the direct qualification slots. 

credit - fifa.com

Keshi should drop Joseph Yobo from the team - Orji Uzor Kalu

Former Governor of Abia State, Orji Kalu, has charged Nigerian coach, Stephen Keshi, to stick to the winning Super Eagles squad rather than changing players in “trial and error.”

Speaking in Abuja after the Eagles 1-1 draw with Kenya on Saturday, Kalu said, “Keshi should not do trial and error. I think Yobo should go although he has been so kind to the national team but he should give way for other younger players. Stephen Keshi should stick to his first eleven. He should not allow anyone to impose a player on him.”
 

Balotelli poses with new babe, Fanny Roberts

 

AC Milan and Italy striker Mario Balotelli has posed for the first time with new girlfriend Fanny Robert Neguesha for a photo shoot in the latest edition of Italy's Vanity Fair magazine.

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Zenith Womens' basketball League

Results of the day three of the 9th Zenith Bank National
Women's Basketball league.

Game 9.) Delta Force (Asaba)        47  Nig. Immigrations (Abuja)  29
Game 10.) Nig. Customs (Lagos)      39  AHIP Queens (Kano)          23
Game 11.) Benue Princess (Makurdi)  41  IGP Queens (Lagos)          36
Game 12.) Sunshine Angels (Akure)  64  GT-2000 (Kaduna)            36
Game 13.) Plateau Rock (Jos)        50  Oluyole Babes (Oyo)        42
Game 14.) 1st Deepwater(Lagos)      94  Taraba Hurricanes (Jalingo) 10
Game 15.) Dolphins(Lagos)          63  1st Bank(Lagos)            83
Game 16.) FCT Angels(Abuja)        70  Coal City Queens(Enugu)    19
game 25.) 1st Deepwater(Lagos)  107    Coal City Queens(Enugu)  28
Game 26.) Delta Force(Asaba)    44      Plateau Rocks          50
Game 27.) GT-2000 (Kaduna)      43        Nig .Customs        37

Sunday Mba : NFF orders Wolves, Rangers to agree on transfer fee by Thursday

The Nigeria Football Federation has ordered Nigeria Premier League
clubs, Warri Wolves and Enugu Rangers to agree on a transfer fee for
Super Eagles’ attacking midfielder Sunday Mba before the close of work
on Thursday, 28th March, 2013.

Tiger Woods, Elin Nordegren’s New Billionaire Boyfriend

Elin Nordegren has a new man in her life.

The former Mrs. Tiger Woods, 33, is reportedly dating billionaire coal magnate Chris Cline, a neighbor in her upscale North Palm Beach, Florida, community called Seminole Landing.
"Elin was introduced to Chris by a local friend because they seem to have a lot in common," a source told People, noting that they've been dating casually and non-exclusively since the holidays. "They both have children, like to keep their personal lives quiet, believe in philanthropy, and enjoy leisure outdoor activity."
Just who is this guy? Here are five facts about Cline:

23 Eagles Battle For Shirts Against Harambee Stars

…As Ajah Replaces Injured Zango

All 23 invited home based professionals save for injured Kano Pillars central defender, Zango Umar opened training Tuesday morning at the Practice Pitch of the Abuja National Stadium in preparation for the March 23 World Cup qualifier against Harambee Stars of Kenya.

Before training commenced, Head Coach Stephen Keshi, told the players to forget about the triumph of the team at the Nations Cup and concentrate on picking a ticket for the World Cup, coming up next year in Brazil. To the new players he said if they show enough readiness to break into the team they will be given the chance.

The training itself was intense, Spartan and very physical, with emphasis on quick and simple play. It lasted for about two hours with all the five coaches of the team playing their assigned roles.

Meanwhile, the coaching crew have decided to replace injured Umar with First Bank of Lagos central defender, Festus Ajah. Ajah is said to have impressed national team scouts in some of his club’s games and now has an opportunity to make an impression at the national team level. He was expected in camp by Tuesday evening on time for Wednesday’s morning training session.

NFF announces Super Eagles, Mexico clash

African champions Nigeria will clash with the champions of North and
Central America, Mexico in a high-profile international friendly match
in Houston, Texas, United States of America on May 31.

“The Nigeria Football Federation and its Match Agent, Eurodata Sport
Marketing Sportivo e Culturale, are pleased to announce that the Super
Eagles will play against Mexico’s Senior Team in a friendly match at
the Reliant Stadium, Houston, Texas on Friday, May 31, starting from
9pm Texas time,” NFF General Secretary, Barrister Musa Amadu said on
Wednesday.

West Brom boss Steve Clarke has asked the home fans to welcome Osaze Odemwingie back if he is included against Swansea on Saturday.

Odemwingie was booed when he appeared as a late substitute against visiting Sunderland a fortnight ago.
 

It was his first appearance since his Twitter rants against the club in January after a transfer request was rejected and hopes of a move to QPR were dashed.

Obuh picks Ajagun, 20 others to defend AYC trophy

Nigeria has picked a final list of 21 players to fly the country’s
flag at the 2013 African Youth Championship holding in Algeria between
16th – 30th March, 2013. The Flying Eagles are the defending
champions.


On Wednesday, Head Coach Sam John Obuh, who also led the team to
triumph in South Africa two years ago, picked three goalkeepers, seven
defenders, six midfielders and five strikers as the team intensified
its final preparations in Tunis.

Oyo State sport commisioner charge Shooting Stars

Dapo Lam Adesina, the sport commissioner of Oyo State has charged the team to do well ahead the 2012/2013 football league season that will start tomorrow.

In his words to the team Mr Dapo said "You promised to win the league and make a continental ticket last season, but you failed to accomplish it despite our motivation for you,” Dapo Lam told the players.

Mr Dapo holding the ball, pictured with the State Governor

AHEAD 2013 CAF U-I7 CHAMPIONSHIP

Four-midable Matthew Eyes Cup Glory

Four-goal hero in the 12-0 aggregate win over the Diamond Zebras in two international friendlies in Calabar, Ifeanyi Matthew, has vowed to score the goals to fire the Golden Eaglets to win the CAF Under-17 trophy in Morocco.

 Nigeria last won the continental cadet competition in 2007 en route to global acclaim at the FIFA Under-17 World Cup in Korea but Matthew is bullish about the prospect of the current set, adding that he and his colleagues are equally determined to write their names in gold.

 

 “I’m so happy that I was able to score four goals in the two matches against Botswana,” stated Matthew, the junior brother of erstwhile Abuja Road Safety’s player, Chukwuma Matthew and a great admirer of Barcelona’s star midfielder, Xavi. “All the four goals were very good and importantly, it helped us achieved our goal of winning the matches against Botswana.

CAS rejects the appeal of M. Jacques Anouma for the CAF Presidency

The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has dismissed the appeal filed by Jacques Anouma against the African Football Confederation (CAF) regarding his candidacy for the CAF presidency. The Ivorian Football Federation (FIF) had proposed the candidature of Mr Anouma for the presidential election of 10 March 2013, a nomination which was declared inadmissible by the CAF Executive Committee.


The CAS has confirmed that the CAF Executive Committee had jurisdiction to refuse the candidature of Jacques Anouma, that the CAF Statutes adopted in September 2012 were applicable in assessing the validity of the candidates in the presidential election and that Jacques Anouma did not meet these criteria because he had never been a member the CAF Executive Committee.

Nigeria: Soccerex commends sport Minister on award

The world’s leading sports consulting and management firm, Soccerex has congratulated the Honourable Minister of Sports and Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi on being conferred with the African Sports Minister of the Year Award.

In a letter to the Honourable Minister, Daniel Krebs, a director at Soccerex stated that the body was pleased to learn of the award to the minister. “The Soccerex team would like to congratulate you for this achievement,” he stated.Krebs further stated that "we from Soccerex would like to sincerely thank you again for the support you have shown us and thank you for all your work in developing sports in Nigeria."The Honourable Minister was honoured recently by the Institute of Leadership and Management in Nairobi, Kenya as the African Sports Minister of the Year. The body said it honored the minister because of the on-going reforms in the sports sector and his effort to build an enduring governance system in the sector.

The award to the Minister has enunciated praises from several sport stakeholders.

Aminu Maigari, the President of the Nigeria Football Federation said, “the Honourable Minister greatly deserves the award and we at the NFF are happy to congratulate him.

“We are very happy for him.

He is a dynamic person with positive intentions for Nigeria sports and we pray that God will continue be with him and guide him.”

Maigari further added that,

“awards reward excellence and this one has come at the right time for a man in love with hard work and always committed to achieving excellence.”

FOOTBALL MEET NOLLYWOOD IN NIGERIA

The Executive Governor of Cross River State, Senator Liyel Imoke is
top of the list of personalities to be honoured at the first-ever
Night of Stars, preceeding the inaugural Nigeria Pitch Awards, which
hold at the Conference Hall of Tinapa Lakeside Hotel and Resort,
Calabar on Saturday, March 23.

Nigeria Football, NFF holds Match Commissioners’ seminar

NFF holds Match Commissioners’ seminar

The annual, all-inclusive seminar for all qualified and aspiring Match
Commissioners in Nigeria will hold on Wednesday at the Federal Capital
Territory, Abuja.

President of the Nigeria Football Federation, Alhaji Aminu Maigari
will declare the event open at the Conference Hall of the National
Institute for Sports, inside the National Stadium Complex.

A list of not more than 20 prospective Match Commissioners has been
received from each of the 36 States of the Federation and the FCT. The
lists are inclusive of CAF Match Commissioners from each of the
States.

Registration for the seminar will hold at the same venue between 8am
and 10am on Wednesday, before the opening ceremony, at which NFF
President Aminu Maigari will charge the Match Commissioners to be
alive to their responsibilities and to always be aware of the
sensitivity of their duties.

CAF General Coordinator, Etubom Paul Bassey and Dr. Abu Mallam of the
University of Abuja are the two resource persons for the day.

Mba, Oboabona, 22 Others Listed For Harambee Stars War

....Ajiboye In, Foreign List Out Thursday

Super Eagles boss, Stephen Okechukwu Keshi, has unveiled a list of 24 home based professional players who will be joined later by their foreign based counterparts for the all-important World Cup qualifier against the Harambee Stars of Kenya, scheduled for March 23 in Calabar, Cross River State.

Team’s Media Officer, Ben Alaiya, quotes Scribe of the team, Dayo Enebi Achor, as saying that the full list of foreign based professionals will be unveiled on Thuirsday morning by the team’s technical crew, as Keshi has mapped out plans to ensure that only fit and ready players will be invited for the clash against Harambee Stars of Kenya.

On the 24-man list is Eagles home-based skipper, Chigozie Agbim, Sunday Mba, who was one of the heroes of Nigeria’s 2013 Afcon win, Godfrey Oboabona, the Sunshine Stars skipper, who featured in all games of the tournament in South Africa, Gabriel Reuben, Papa Idris and goalkeeper Daniel Akpeyi all make a return to the team.

But the surprise package in the team is Shooting Stars of Ibadan goaltender, Dele Ajiboye, who started with the U-17 and has been with the Flying Eagles, U23s and now the Super Eagles. A young and agile goalie, Ajiboye, is expected to bring his wealth of experience through the ranks to bear in the battle for gloves for the national team.

The team will as usual encamp at Bolton White Apartment, Zone 7 in Abuja from Sunday, March 10, from where they will be joined by foreign based players next week for the trip to Calabar, venue of the encounter. Below is the full list of invited players for the game against Kenya in Calabar.

Goalkeepers: 1. AGBIM Chigozie (Rangers)., 2 AKPEYI Daniel (Heartland), 3.  AJIBOYE Dele (3SC)

Defenders 4.  Egwueke Azubuike (Warri Wolves), 5. Papa Idris (Kano Pillars), 6 .Zango Umar (Kano Pillars) 7. Oboabona Godfrey (Sunshine Stars) 8. Kwambe Solomon (Sunshine Stars) 9. Chibuzo Okonkwo (Rangers) 10. Ezekiel bassey (Lobi Stars) 11. Benjamin Francis (Heartland) 12. Zubaru Muhammed (Tornadoes).

Midfielders and Forwards: 13. Mba Sunday (Nigeria) 14. Gabriel Ruben (Kano Pillars) 15. Gambo Muhammed (Kano Pillars) 16. Ubale Mannir (Kano Pillars) 17. Pius Samson (Ranchers Bees) 18. Ohanduku Gomo (Sharks) 19. Obinna Nwanchukwu (Heartland) 20. Saka Ayo (Enyimba) 21. Jiya Muhammed (Bayelsa Fc) 22. Emeka Ezeh (Rangers) 23. Anthony Okputu (Lobi Stars) 24. Adepoju Taofeek (3SC)