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Super Falcons Crowned CAF Women’s National Team of the Year 2025

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

Nigeria’s Super Falcons have once again etched their name into the annals of African football history. The nine-time African champions were officially named the CAF Women’s National Team of the Year at the prestigious 2025 Confederation of African Football (CAF) Awards ceremony, held at the Mohammed VI Polytechnic University in Rabat, Morocco.

This triumph marks the third consecutive year the Super Falcons have claimed the honor, following back-to-back victories in 2023 and 2024, and their seventh overall since the award’s inception. It’s a resounding endorsement of their unyielding dominance on the continental stage, where they remain the most decorated women’s national team in Africa.

The award arrives on the heels of an unforgettable 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), hosted by Morocco earlier this year. Under the guidance of head coach Justin Madugu, the Falcons delivered a masterclass in resilience and tactical brilliance, storming to their record-extending 10th title. Their path to glory included commanding wins over Zambia and South Africa in the group stages, before a heart-stopping final against the host nation, Morocco’s Atlas Lionesses.

Trailing 2-0 after just 24 minutes in the decider, the Super Falcons refused to yield. A blistering second-half comeback, fueled by three goals in a frantic 24-minute spell—sealed a 3-2 victory and sparked wild jubilation among fans and players alike. Throughout the tournament, Nigeria won five of their six matches, boasting four clean sheets and conceding only twice from open play, a testament to their defensive solidity and attacking flair.

“We are overjoyed and deeply grateful for this recognition,” said Falcons captain Rasheedat Ajibade, who was herself nominated for the CAF Women’s Player of the Year award. “This isn’t just about one tournament; it’s about the hard work, unity, and passion that define this team. Winning WAFCON was special, but bringing this home for Nigeria makes it even sweeter. We’re already looking ahead to more battles on the global stage.”

The Super Falcons edged out formidable contenders Ghana’s Black Queens, who secured bronze at WAFCON after a strong return to the competitio and Morocco’s Atlas Lionesses, who hosted the event with aplomb but fell just short in the final. The Black Queens’ inclusion in the shortlist highlighted their resurgence, while Morocco’s bid was bolstered by their impressive home performances.

Individual stars from the Falcons also shone brightly in the nominations. Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie earned a spot on the shortlist for CAF Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year, her tournament heroics between the posts proving pivotal. Coach Madugu, meanwhile, was recognized for his leadership in guiding the team to glory, landing a nomination for Women’s Coach of the Year.

Nigeria’s influence extended beyond the senior side at the awards. The U-17 Flamingos were also shortlisted for the National Team of the Year (Women) category after reaching the Round of 16 at the 2025 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco, while Bayelsa Queens represented the domestic front with a nod for Club of the Year (Women).

The Super Falcons’ latest accolade serves as both a celebration of past triumphs and a clarion call for the future. With eyes now turning to qualifiers for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup and beyond, Africa’s queens of the pitch are poised to continue their reign, inspiring a new generation of female footballers across the continent.

 

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NewsSport

Super Falcons’ Chiamaka Nnadozie Nominated for FIFA The Best Women’s Goalkeeper Award 2025

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene 

Nigerian international, Chiamaka Nnadozie, the talismanic goalkeeper for the Super Falcons, has been shortlisted for the prestigious FIFA The Best Women’s Goalkeeper Award for 2025, highlighting her meteoric rise as one of the world’s elite shot-stoppers.

The 24-year-old, currently starring for Brighton & Hove Albion in England’s Women’s Super League, earned the nomination following a stellar 2024/25 season that blended club triumphs and international glory. FIFA announced the shortlist today, placing Nnadozie alongside a formidable field of global talents, including Germany’s Ann-Katrin Berger (Gotham FC), Spain’s Cata Coll (Barcelona), Chile’s Christiane Endler (Lyon), England’s Hannah Hampton (Chelsea), England’s Anna Moorhouse (Angel City FC), and the USA’s Phallon Tullis-Joyce (Manchester United).

Nnadozie’s campaign was nothing short of extraordinary. At club level, she anchored Paris FC to their first Coupe de France Féminine title in over two decades, delivering a clean sheet in the final against rivals Paris Saint-Germain and saving two penalties in the shootout to seal victory in May. Her commanding presence helped the team reach the French league playoffs, earning her widespread acclaim for consistency and leadership between the posts.

On the international front, Nnadozie was the linchpin in Nigeria’s triumphant return to the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) crown in Rabat, Morocco, in August. Across six matches, she secured four clean sheets, conceding just twice from open play—including both in the final against the hosts—and claimed the Golden Glove as the tournament’s Best Goalkeeper. Her clutch saves in the knockout stages were instrumental in the Super Falcons’ 10th continental title.

This FIFA nod caps a year of accolades for Nnadozie, who became the first African nominated for the Women’s Yashin Trophy at the 2025 Ballon d’Or, where she finished a respectable fourth in September. She is also in contention for a third consecutive CAF Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year award at the upcoming Confederation of African Football ceremony, a feat that would further solidify her status as Africa’s premier custodian.

“If Nnadozie lifts the Yashin or any of these honors, it would be historic,” said Super Falcons coach Justin Madugu, who himself made waves as the first African nominated for the Ballon d’Or Best Coach award earlier this year. “Her journey is about persistence and faith—it’s not just for her, but for every young girl in Africa dreaming big in football.”

Nnadozie’s form has carried over seamlessly to Brighton, where she recently earned a nomination for the Barclays WSL Save of the Month for October after a stunning denial of Tottenham’s Eveliina Summanen from a free-kick. Her quick reflexes, aerial dominance, and penalty prowess have drawn comparisons to the likes of Endler and Coll, positioning her as a frontrunner for the FIFA award.

The winners of The Best FIFA Football Awards 2025 will be revealed at a gala ceremony in Zurich, Switzerland, on December 17. As Nigeria celebrates another milestone for its women’s football stars, Nnadozie’s shortlist spot underscores the growing global influence of African talent in the women’s game.

For Nnadozie, who burst onto the scene as a teenager with the Super Falcons, the recognition is deeply personal. “This is to encourage every goalkeeper in Africa: Keep working hard, because anything is possible,” she shared earlier this year after her Ballon d’Or nod.

With eyes now on Zurich, all of Nigeria and the continent will be cheering for the Super Falcons’ unbreakable wall to claim the ultimate prize.

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NewsSport

Nigerian Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie Nominated for Prestigious 2025 IFFHS Women’s World Best Goalkeeper Award

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene 

Super Falcons star Chiamaka Nnadozie has been shortlisted for the 2025 International Federation of Football History and Statistics (IFFHS) Women’s World Best Goalkeeper award, placing her among an elite group of ten global nominees.

The 24-year-old Nigerian sensation, who currently plies her trade for Brighton & Hove Albion in England’s Women’s Super League, earned the nomination through a string of breathtaking performances that have solidified her status as one of the world’s premier shot-stoppers. If victorious, Nnadozie would etch her name in history as the first African woman to claim the honor, following in the footsteps of previous winners like Spain’s Sandra Paños and Germany’s Almuth Schult.

The IFFHS, founded in 1987, honors excellence in football through votes from journalists and analysts across more than 120 countries. The 2025 winners, including rankings for goalkeepers, players, referees, and coaches, will be unveiled in December. Nnadozie joins a formidable shortlist featuring the likes of Germany’s Ann-Katrin Berger (Gotham FC), Spain’s Cata Coll (Barcelona), England’s Hannah Hampton (Chelsea), and Chile’s Christiane Endler (Lyon).

This nod caps a banner year for Nnadozie, whose heroics have lit up both club and international stages. At club level, she was instrumental in Paris FC’s Coupe de France Féminine triumph in June, where she heroically saved two penalties in the final against Paris Saint-Germain. Her move to Brighton in July marked a historic transfer, making her the first Nigerian player to join the Seagulls and bolstering their ambitions in the WSL. There, she’s already earning accolades, including a recent nomination for the Barclays WSL Save of the Month for October after a stunning stop on a Tottenham free-kick.

Internationally, Nnadozie’s brilliance shone brightest at the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco, where she backstopped Nigeria to a record-extending 10th title. Keeping multiple clean sheets en route to victory, she was crowned Best Goalkeeper and earned a spot in the Tournament Team of the Tournament. Earlier, she made waves at the 2024 Paris Olympics and became the first Nigerian and African nominee for the Women’s Yashin Trophy at the 2025 Ballon d’Or, finishing an impressive fourth.

Nnadozie’s journey from the Nigerian Women’s Premier League with Rivers Angels, where she won the title in 2019 and multiple cups, to Europe’s elite circuits underscores her rapid ascent. She debuted for the Super Falcons in 2018 against France and has since amassed 55 caps, including becoming the youngest goalkeeper to record a World Cup clean sheet at 19 during the 2019 tournament against South Korea.

As she eyes a potential third straight CAF Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year award, Nnadozie’s nomination serves as a beacon for aspiring African talents. “It’s an honor to be recognized alongside the best,” she said in a recent interview. “But my focus remains on the team, whether at Brighton or with the Super Falcons. This is just fuel for more.”

Fans and pundits alike are buzzing with anticipation. Should Nnadozie lift the IFFHS trophy, it would not only validate her individual prowess but also highlight the growing global impact of African women’s football.

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SportNews

Ogun Governor Abiodun Boosts Super Falcons with ₦50m Incentive Ahead of Crucial Benin Clash in Abeokuta

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

Ogun State Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun has announced a generous ₦50 million incentive package for the Super Falcons, just days before their crucial return-leg qualifier against the Benin Republic in the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). The gesture, revealed on the eve of the match, is aimed at firing up the nine-time African champions as they seek to seal qualification at the MKO Abiola International Stadium in Abeokuta.

The Super Falcons, fresh off a commanding 2-0 victory in the first leg played in Lomé, Togo, on Friday, returned to Nigerian soil over the weekend and wasted no time ramping up preparations at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena. Midfielder Deborah Abiodun was the standout performer in the away win, delivering two pinpoint assists that set up strikes from Chinwendu Ihezuo in the 24th minute and Esther Okoronkwo just before halftime. Her creative flair not only handed Nigeria a two-goal cushion but also showed the team’s evolving style under head coach Justine Madugu.

Governor Abiodun’s financial boost has been hailed as a timely morale lifter, especially as the Falcons defend their WAFCON title and eye a spot in the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil. “This is more than money; it’s a testament to our commitment to nurturing the stars who make Nigeria proud on the global stage,” Abiodun said in a statement released by his office. The package is intended to reward the players’ dedication and fuel their drive for another triumphant campaign.

Alhaji Ganiyu Majekodunmi, Chairman of the Ogun State Football Association and a Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Executive Board Member, was quick to applaud the governor’s initiative. “On behalf of the Ogun State Football Association, we say a big thank you to the Governor,” Majekodunmi declared. “This demonstrates His Excellency’s passion for sports development. I urge residents and football lovers across Nigeria to fill the MKO Abiola Stadium tomorrow and roar the Super Falcons to victory. Come out and support our champions!”

Midfielder Deborah Abiodun urged fans during a pre-match training session on Sunday to pack the stands. “We’re eager to reward you with another strong performance,” she said. “Benin is a capable side, and we’re not underestimating them despite our lead. Your support will make all the difference.” Captain Rasheedat Ajibade, who joined camp earlier in the week alongside stars like Osinachi Ohale, Michelle Alozie, and Asisat Oshoala, is expected to lead the midfield charge, with forwards Ihezuo, Okoronkwo, and Folashade Ijamilusi primed for more goals.

Coach Madugu, speaking ahead of Tuesday’s 4 p.m. kickoff, emphasized a no-nonsense approach. “We take nothing for granted,” he warned. “The Beninoise will come fighting, but we’re ready to deliver a clinical performance and secure qualification. Goals are promised – we’re gunning for them to put this tie to bed.” Madugu’s squad boasts depth, with potential cameos from six-time African Women’s Player of the Year Asisat Oshoala adding firepower if needed.

On the other side, Benin’s coach expressed guarded optimism, noting their improved understanding of the Falcons after the first-leg defeat. “We know them better now,” he said, hinting at tactical tweaks to exploit any complacency.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has appointed Madagascar’s Dominique Rosa Hanjavola as center referee, assisted by Zimbabwe’s Claris Simango and Madagascar’s Hasimbola Rasoloniaina, with Grace Gimo of Zimbabwe as the fourth official. With a passionate home crowd and the governor’s backing, the stage is set for the Super Falcons to soar once more, extending their legacy as Africa’s queens of the pitch.

Tickets for the match are available at the MKO Abiola Stadium box office, with gates opening at 2 p.m. Football fans in Ogun and beyond are encouraged to turn out in force, turning Abeokuta into a cauldron of green-white-green fervor.

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Sport

African Women’s Club Volleyball Championship: Nigeria Sets Record with 21 Clubs

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Nigeria has achieved a remarkable milestone by attracting a record 21 clubs for the upcoming African Women’s Club Volleyball Championship, according to Engr. Musa Nimrod, President of the Nigeria Volleyball Federation (NVBF). This announcement was made during the closing ceremony of the President Beach Volleyball Championship held at Murtala Mohammed Square in Kaduna recently.

Nimrod expressed his optimism, stating, “This is a significant achievement for us. We hope that all the clubs will participate, but we have already set a record.”

The Nigerian Customs team, representing Nigeria, is currently in training camp in preparation for the championship, which is scheduled to begin on April 1, 2025. Nimrod confirmed, “The Customs team and other participants will continue their training as we approach the start of the African Women’s Club Championship.”

Regarding the recently concluded President Beach Volleyball Championship, Nimrod hailed it as a tremendous success, thanking the Kaduna State Government for providing the Murtala Square venue, which helped draw large crowds to the event. He emphasized the NVBF’s commitment to grassroots development by engaging local schools to encourage youth participation in volleyball.

He also highlighted Nigeria’s position as the top-ranked female volleyball team in Africa, noting that players like Esther and Panela have become inspirations for younger athletes. “Our players have traveled globally, and now everyone aspires to follow in their footsteps,” he said.

Looking ahead, Nimrod mentioned that the NVBF is actively preparing for the qualification of the Olympic Youth Games in 2026, which will be hosted in Senegal. “As the current number one ranked country in Africa for women’s volleyball, we are determined to secure our place in the tournament,” he concluded.

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Sport

Chiney Ogwumike Named Basketball Africa League Ambassador

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The Basketball Africa League (BAL) named two-time WNBA All-Star and ESPN analyst, Chiney Ogwumike as the First Female BAL Ambassador. The announcement was made by BAL President Amadou Gallo Fall during the Africa Luncheon at All-Star Weekend in San Francisco.

Ogwumike is a passionate advocate for gender equity in sports and the sustainable development of basketball. Through her work, she aims to inspire young girls and women to take charge of their future and promote inclusive opportunities for all.

As a BAL Ambassador, Ogwumike will take an active role in the league’s initiatives across Africa, with a focus on engaging and empowering women and girls on the continent. She will also lead various events as well as clinics throughout the season, beginning with the Kalahari Conference, which tips off on Saturday, April 5, 2025, at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex in Rabat, Morocco.

Ogwumike joins several African NBA legends who are serving as BAL Ambassadors and helping to promote the league in Africa and around the world: 2011 NBA champion with the Dallas Mavericks Ian Mahinmi (Benin), two-time NBA All-Star Joakim Noah (Cameroon), two-time NBA All-Star and South Sudan Basketball Federation President Luol Deng, and former NBA player and G League executive Pops Mensah-Bonsu (Ghana).

“I am grateful for this tremendous opportunity to continue to inspire, uplift, and help grow the game across the continent, especially for young women and girls,” said Ogwumike. “Basketball has given me so much, and now, I get to give back in a way that creates real impact and celebrates my sisters on the continent. The future of basketball in Africa is limitless, and I can’t wait to be part of this journey.”

Ogwumike’s appointment marks a significant step in elevating women’s representation within the BAL and expanding the league’s influence across the continent.

Since its inception, the BAL has been a driving force for basketball development across the continent, providing meaningful opportunities for communities to engage with the sport. With Ogwumike’s leadership and advocacy, the BAL aims to expand its reach and impact, further inspiring the next generation of players and fans across Africa.

 

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Sport

Historic Victory: Nigeria’s U-19 Women’s Cricket Team Claims First ICC T20 World Cup Win

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Nigeria’s U-19 Women’s Cricket Team achieved a historic milestone by securing their first-ever ICC Women’s T20 World Cup win in Malaysia against New Zealand.

After batting first and managing a score of 65 for 6 in 13 overs, the Nigerian team’s bowlers and fielders put on a stellar performance, restricting New Zealand to 63 for 6 in their 13 overs.

Key players like Rukayat Abdul-Azeez and Esther Sandy excelled, both with the bat and ball, contributing significantly to this victory. This win is not just a game result; it’s a beacon of inspiration for Nigerian women in sports, showcasing the potential for cricket in a football-dominated country. It brings global attention to Nigerian women’s cricket, likely fostering more investment, training, and opportunities for young talents.

This success could lead to more international exposure and participation in future tournaments, marking a pivotal moment in the narrative of sports in Nigeria.

 

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Sport

Black Tito, Olowu, Iwatt to Headline GOtv Boxing Night 30

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The 30th edition of the premier boxing event, GOtv Boxing Night, will take place on Tuesday, December 26, at the Tafawa Balewa Square, Victoria Island, Lagos, with a sub-regional and national title bouts listed among the six scheduled for the night.  

 

In the big bouts of the night, national female cruiserweight champion, Bolatito “Black Tito” Oluwole, will square up against Blessing Abisoye in a national challenge bout. The fierce ‘Black Tito’ won the Mojisola Ogunsanya Memorial Trophy awarded to the best boxer at GOtv Boxing 29 in September.

 

Another big name in action on the night is Taiwo “Gentle Boy” Olowu, who will be defending his West African Boxing Union (WABU) super welterweight title against top Ghanaian boxer, Michael Ansah. In the other title fight, swift puncher, Sifon “Best” Iwatt, will battle Saheed Azeez, for the national super flyweight title.

 

According to the event organisers, Flykite Productions, the festive edition will also feature live music performances by A-list Afrobeats artists. “The December editions of GOtv Boxing Night have always been a carnival of music and Boxing. This year won’t be an exception, as we will be having musical performances by some top afrobeats artists at the venue. The artists will be announced once the deals are sealed,” said the Chief Executive Officer of Flykite Productions, Jenkins Alumona.

 

Also scheduled for the night is a national bantamweight challenge bout between Arabambi Ojo and Ibrahim “Golden Boy” Opeyemi. In the national light welterweight category, Ayanfe Adeoye will face Ahmed Ganiyu, while Abdulafeez “Big Name” Osoba and Christopher Ucheji, will trade punches in a national super welterweight challenge fight.

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Sport

FIFA Women’s World Cup™ Trophy Tour is ‘Going Beyond’ to Inspire Global Excitement

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The FIFA (www.FIFA.com) Women’s World Cup™ Trophy Tour begins this month and will visit all 32 of the tournament’s participating nations – more countries than ever before; The tour is ‘Going Beyond’ to inspire people of all ages to get excited about the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023™; The tour’s Skills Drills will encourage women and girls worldwide to join the celebration by showcasing their footballing ability and creativity

The biggest-ever FIFA Women’s World Cup™ Trophy Tour will embark on a game-changing global journey this month, stoking excitement across the planet ahead of the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023™.

The tour will take the iconic Trophy to all 32 of the tournament’s participating nations – more countries than ever before – and will inspire people of all ages by ‘Going Beyond’ to celebrate the rocketing popularity of the women’s game. At the heart of this mission will be a unique opportunity for members of the public to get creative and showcase their footballing ability to a global audience.

Skills Drills will give willing participants worldwide the chance to try out fun football challenges that become tougher over time and then share their imaginative efforts on TikTok.

As the Trophy travels from stop to stop, selected women and girls who have participated in Skills Drills will join FIFA Legends, local national team stars and other famous faces to highlight the game’s emerging talent and increase the buzz around the Women’s World Cup.

As the campaign’s dedicated skills coach, Female Football Freestyle world champion Lia Lewis will set the challenges to her more than 3.9 million followers on TikTok, as well as across FIFA’s social media and FIFA+. She will also pass on her tips to youngsters at a send-off event on 18 February in Melbourne / Naarm, Australia before the tour’s first official stop in Japan on 25-26 February.

The Trophy will crisscross the globe by visiting Asia, Africa, South America, North America and Europe before landing in all nine Women’s World Cup host cities in the final weeks before the start of a tournament on 20 July that promises to go Beyond Greatness™.

Key dates on the tour schedule include stops in China PR on 9-11 March, South Africa on 22-23 March, Brazil on 29-30 March, USA on 10-14 April, Canada on 19-20 April, Germany on 2-3 May, England on 13-14 May and France on 20-21 May.

Several countries will also be part of the tour for the first time ever, including Colombia, Costa Rica, Denmark, Morocco, the Philippines, the Republic of Ireland, Switzerland, Vietnam and Zambia.

“The FIFA Women’s World Cup Trophy Tour is a spectacular global celebration of the women’s game, giving fans, families and future football enthusiasts an opportunity to be inspired and become part of a truly special journey,” FIFA Secretary General Fatma Samoura says.

“It is a fantastic opportunity to experience the most coveted prize in women’s football in person and hear from the game’s legends. The tour will inspire people worldwide by shining a spotlight on the skills and creativity that demonstrate why women’s football has such a bright future.”

The full route of the FIFA Women’s World Cup™ Trophy Tour is as follows:

*schedule subject to change

Dates  Member Association  Dates  Member Association 
25-26 Feb Japan 4 May Denmark
27 Feb Korea Republic 6-7 May Sweden
1-2 Mar Philippines 8 May Norway
4-5 Mar Vietnam 10 May Republic of Ireland
9-11 Mar China PR 13-14 May England
20 Mar Morocco 16 May Italy
22-23 Mar South Africa 18 May Netherlands
24 Mar Zambia 20-21 May France
26 Mar Nigeria 22 May Spain
29-30 Mar Brazil 2-4 June Auckland, NZ
31 Mar Argentina 7-12 June Sydney, AUS
3 Apr Colombia 14-16 June Melbourne, AUS
7 Apr Costa Rica 17-20 June Hamilton, NZ
10-14 Apr USA 22-25 June Dunedin, NZ
16 Apr Jamaica 28-1 Jun/Jul Brisbane, AUS
19-20 Apr Canada 2-4 July Adelaide, AUS
29-1 Apr/May Switzerland 7-10 July Perth, AUS
2-3 May Germany 12-14 July Wellington, NZ

The dates of the stops in the final three countries to qualify via the Play-off tournament will be integrated following their confirmation.

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Sport

Kwara Falcons, First Bank Win Bullet b’ball Tourney

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The second Bullet Basketball Tournament ended in Lagos on Sunday with Kwara Falcons and First Bank emerging the winners of the men and women’s categories respectively.

The Falcons, who were trailing with eight points with less than two minutes to go, recovered well to beat War Lords 69-67.

First Bank had to bend backwards to overcome MFM Ladies 52-50. Both games gave the spectators first-class entertainment, with both winners emerging just before the final buzzer.

The Elephant Girls took the first quarter 13-4, but the praying ladies from the MFM mountain recovered to win the second quarter 22-14. National champions First Bank took the third 13-8, but MFM rallied to win the last 16-12 but their poor start meant they could not catch up with the bankers at the end.

A day before the match MFM coach Ochuko Owolabi said her team could beat First Bank if only they were able to overcome fear tied around the historical achievements of First Bank.

In the men’s event, Falcons had to throw in all they had in their reserves to beat a younger War Lords side. They rounded off the Bullet Tournament powered by the Sam Oguche Foundation with the trophy to start the NBBF Final-8 playoffs in Lagos on Monday.

War Lords coach Akindele Peter said the inexperience of his players took a toll on them.

Credit: Punch

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