Sports
Nigeria Rugby Football Federation Unveils 2020 Calendar
By Modupe Gbadeyanka
The Nigeria Rugby Football Federation (NRFF) has announced its schedule of international and local events for the year 2020.
Technical Director of the federation, Mr Abubakar Yaro, while addressing newsmen in Lagos, disclosed that, “The year will kick off with training course for our coaches, referees and administrators followed by a return to the National Sports Festival in Edo after a 10-year absence.
“We will then take a break due to Ramadan fast. The President’s Cup between Police and Barewa will usher in the 2020 League Season after which Nigeria will host the West African Rugby Series in Lagos.”
Mr Yaro further said the Black Stallion Men’s Sevens will engage in the Africa Cup 7s later in the year, noting that, “As you know, we will not play in the Africa Cup 15s this year having lost the pre-qualifying match in Madagascar last year.”
He further explained that Nigeria could have avoided Madagascar, the highest ranked team in the preliminary rounds, saying, “If we didn’t get the ban in 2017, we would have easily avoided Madagascar because we fell behind to the lower regional league and had to play our way back up in Niger Republic and Ivory Coast in 2017.
“We then emerged the last ranked team after readmission into the 15s World Cup pre-qualifiers and Africa 7s in 2019. It was an avoidable pairing; however, we have to work towards ensuring we don’t find ourselves in such situation ever again.”
“We are also looking at our Women’s Sevens competing on the continent this year after another 10-year absence.
“Recall our Women’s Sevens team last participated in the year 2009 in Ghana where they finished runners up to Tunisia. They were sponsored by Mr Kelechukwu Mbagwu who was Chairman of Friend’s of Rugby at the time and now that he is President, he is working hard to ensure our Women’s team feature on the Continent again.
“We have identified a number of them playing in Canada and the USA. They converged and participated at the Las Vegas 7s International Open Tournament in March, 2019 where they reached the Cup quarter finals. We look forward to having them come home and mix with our home-based girls to represent Nigeria this year.”
“We’re very much looking forward to starting 2020 with some capacity building programs and we will pay more attention to schools Rugby.
“The President’s Cup between Police and Barewa is pending so it is imminent that we conclude it. The Board agreed to start a Cup competition alongside the League this year to give the players more playing time as well as include a Sevens circuit and Women’s Sevens League towards September.
“We enjoin corporate Nigeria, Individuals and foundations to partner with us to grow Rugby in Nigeria. Our doors are open to discuss,” NRFF President, Mr Kelechukwu Mbagwu, stated.
NRFF Program of Activities 2020
NRFF CALENDAR 2020 |
|
February | Board Meeting |
March | Coaches & Match Officials Training course |
March 22 – April 1 | National Sports Festival |
March | Annual General Meeting |
April | Easter Sandie Beach Rugby |
April 23 – May 23 | Ramadan Fast Break |
June | President’s Cup (Police Lagos Rfc vs Barewa Rfc) |
June | Northern & Southern League Season |
June | Northern & Southern League Season |
July | Camping for West Africa Regional Series (WARS) |
August | West African Regional Series Tournament |
August | Lilleker Tournament Zaria |
August | Northern 7s |
August | National 7s Circuit Tournament |
Sept | National 7s Circuit Tournament |
Sept | Camping for Safari Sevens |
Sept | Safari Sevens Invitational Tournament, Kenya |
Sept | National Youth Games |
Sept | National Womens 7s Camp |
October | Nigeria International Sevens (Independence 7s) / State Schools 7s / Womens 7s |
October | Africa Cup Sevens (Women’s) |
November | Africa Cup Sevens (Men’s)/ HSBC 2021 World Sevens Series Qualifiers |
November | iTry |
November | Rock ‘N’ Rugby Beach Tournament |
November | Sandie Beach November Edition |
Sports
Unveiling the Thrill of Online Casinos: Slots, Games, and More
The innovation of online casinos has transformed how people enjoy leisure and gaming activities. From anywhere and at any time, online casinos have opened their doors to literally everyone, ensuring that the most convenient and exciting kinds of entertainment are within reach.
Whether spinning the reels in popular slot games or plotting out the next move in poker, online casinos bring a virtual get-away like none other. For a deeper understanding of strategies, tips, and insights, one can look to resources such as blog.20bet.com, which provides very valuable information to make your gaming experience even better. Now, let’s get a closer look at the fascinating world of online casinos.
Online Casino Evolution
The journey of online casinos began in the mid-1990s with the advent of the Internet. Fast forward to today, and the industry has mushroomed into a multi-billion-dollar global phenomenon. But to what can its phenomenal popularity be attributed?
Ease of Access and Convenience
One of the major reasons why online casinos have prospered is the convenience they offer. It means that with a smartphone, tablet, or computer, players can play any time, anywhere.
Multitude of Games
Unlike land-based casinos, online casinos offer a plethora of games on their roster. From classic table games like blackjack and roulette, to creative slots with engaging themes, there’s something for every gamer’s taste.
Slot Games: Entertainment for All
Slot games are the most enjoyed amusement in the world of online casinos. The simplicity of the game, combined with appealing graphics and lucrative bonuses, has made it a favorite both for amateur and professional players.
Why Slots Are a Favorite Among People
Easy to Play: Slots are the easiest casino game to play, and there is absolutely no need for experience or strategies.
Creative Themes: Starting from mythology to adventure, slot games are designed with various themes that attract players.
Jackpots: Progressive slots boast of life-altering jackpots which grow with each new spin.
Features of the Best Slots
High RTP: Games with high RTP percentages offer a very good chance of winning.
Bonus Rounds: Look out for slots offering free spins, multipliers, and more.
Mobile Compatibility: Make sure it works on your device.
Table Games: Where Strategy and Entertainment Meet
Table games will satisfy those who want to feel some strategy with their luck. In these games, players will need more engagement and are particularly rewarding when well played.
Popular Table Games
Blackjack: A game of skill and strategy, players try to outdo the dealer without going over 21. Roulette: A very exciting game of chance in which gamblers bet on where the ball will land on a spinning wheel. Poker: From Texas Hold’em to Omaha, poker is all about bluffing, strategy, and calculated risks. Tips for Table Games Success Understand the Rules: First, understand the rules and strategies of the game.
Free Games to Practice: Many sites offer free versions to hone your skills.
Bankroll Management: Set limits and stick to them to avoid overspending.
Live Casino Games: Bringing Realism to Your Screen
The introduction of live dealer games has narrowed the gap between traditional casinos and online casino games. In these games, real dealers host the games, and it is broadcast in real-time for an authentic experience right in your living room.
Advantages of Live Dealer Games
Real-Time Interaction: Chat with dealers and other players to create a social atmosphere.
High Stakes: Many live games cater to high rollers looking for more intense gaming sessions.
Variety: Enjoy games like live blackjack, baccarat, and game show-inspired titles like “Crazy Time.”
Bonuses and Promotions: Maximizing Your Experience
Online casinos often attract players with enticing bonuses and promotions. These offers can significantly enhance your gameplay if used wisely.
Common Types of Bonuses
Welcome Bonus: A reward for signing up, often including deposit matches and free spins.
No Deposit Bonus: Get a small bonus without making an initial deposit.
Loyalty Programs: Earn points with every wager and redeem them for rewards.
How to Choose the Best Bonus
Read the Terms and Conditions: Understand the wagering requirements beforehand.
Check the Validity Period: Make sure that the time given by the bonus is sufficient enough to meet its requirements.
Focus on Your Favorite Games: Some bonuses are game-specific. Choose ones that suit your interests.
Responsible Gaming: A Key Aspect of Enjoyment
While online casinos are a source of entertainment, it’s essential to practice responsible gaming to ensure a positive experience.
Tips for Responsible Gaming
Set a Budget: Decide on a spending limit before you start playing.
Take Breaks: Avoid long gaming sessions to maintain a healthy balance.
Know your Limits: Don’t chase losses; it’s better to walk away and try another day.
Tools at the Player’s Aid
Most online casinos include features for self-exclusion, setting deposit limits, and reality checks that may enable responsible gaming.
Future of Online Casinos
With technology Burke, the online casino industry is bound to reach newer heights. Following are a few trends that are going to shape its future:
Virtual Reality Casinos
Just imagine being inside a virtual casino playing games and communicating with other players, as if you were sitting across from each other. This is the reality that VR technology is bringing into being.
Cryptocurrency and Blockchain
Cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin, are becoming increasingly popular. They provide quicker transactions with added security. Fairness in gaming is ensured through the transparency provided by blockchain technology.
Sports
NFF Appoints Former Mali’s Manager Eric Chelle as Super Eagles Coach
By Dipo Olowookere
The former manager of Mali’s national football team, Mr Eric Chelle, has been appointed as the new head coach of Nigeria’s Super Eagles.
The appointment of Mr Chelle was announced on Tuesday night by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).
The first job of the new coach will be to guide the home-base Super Eagles team to victory at the 2024 CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) co-hosted by the trio of Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania from February 1–28, 2025.
He will work with the current Super Eagles B coaching staff, which includes Daniel Ogunmodede, Fidelis Ilechukwu, and Olatunji Baruwa, who successfully guided the team through CHAN qualifiers.
The biennial football tournament is organised by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and sponsored by an oil giant, TotalEnergies.
Mr Chelle would be expected to deploy his tactics to ensure a successful outing of the home-based Super Eagles at the competition and also revive the main team, according to the president of the NFF, Mr Ibrahim Gusau.
“We want whoever takes charge of the team to begin immediately, which is why the same coach will manage the CHAN Eagles.
“This allows us to identify promising home-based players who can contribute to the senior national team,” he stated.
Business Post reports that the new coach was favoured for the new job by the Technical and Development Sub-Committee of the federation and endorsed by the executive committee.
One of his biggest tasks will be to qualify the Super Eagles for the 2026 FIFA World Cup to be hosted by Canada, Mexico and the United States of America (USA).
At the moment, Nigeria occupies fifth position and will play the next qualifiers in two months’ time.
Mr Chelle led the Mali national team to quarterfinals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. He is the latest foreign coach appointed by the NFF to manage the country’s national team.
Sports
Arsenal, Liverpool in Carabao Cup Semifinal Action Live on GOtv
The race for the first silverware of the 2024/25 season intensifies as Premier League leaders Liverpool and second-placed Arsenal will be in Carabao Cup semifinal action this midweek.
Arsenal will host Newcastle United in the first leg at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday, while Liverpool travel to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Wednesday. Both matches will be broadcast live on GOtv Channel 65 at 9 PM.
Fresh from their impressive 2-1 victory over Tottenham on Saturday, Newcastle will aim to build on their momentum and secure a favorable result ahead of the second leg at St. James’ Park. The Magpies have already defeated Arsenal 1-0 earlier this season, and another strong performance could leave the Gunners with a steep hill to climb in the second leg.
Newcastle will be without their influential captain, Bruno Guimarāes due to suspension, while Arsenal battle with illness issues in the squad which has seen Kai Havertz miss the last two matches.
Arsenal, who haven’t lifted the Carabao Cup in 31 years, view this competition as a vital chance for silverware, especially with their league title hopes fading.
On the other side of North London, Tottenham Hotspur face defending champions Liverpool, hoping to avoid a repeat of their 6-3 thrashing by their visitors just 17 days ago. Spurs have managed just one win in their last eight matches at home in all competitions—a narrow 4-3 victory over Manchester United in the quarterfinal. Their last taste of silverware came 17 years ago when they won this competition.
Meanwhile, Liverpool, who have lost just one match all season, are chasing an ambitious quadruple. A victory over Spurs on Wednesday would put them on the brink of securing a spot in the final at Wembley.
Football fans can enjoy all Carabao Cup matches, Premier League, Serie A, Laliga and Champions League action live by reconnecting or upgrading to the GOtv Super Plus package. Simply dial *288# to renew or upgrade your subscription.
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