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Kennedy Boboye Files Lawsuit Against Heartland For N19 Million In Unpaid Wages

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Kennedy Boboye Files Lawsuit Against Heartland | fab.ng

Sunshine Stars coach Kennedy Boboye, aged 50, has taken legal action against his former club, Heartland. He is seeking to recover an outstanding debt of 19 million naira (₦19,000,000) owed to him.

The Naze Millionaires appointed Boboye, a two-time Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) champion, as their head coach in November 2023. This followed the dismissal of Christian Obi due to the team’s poor performance. At his appointment, Heartland had endured a nine-game winless streak.

Under Boboye’s leadership, the Owerri-based club made significant progress. They secured three wins and one draw in seven matches. Despite this improvement, Kennedy Boboye was later dismissed. This was after Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma ordered the reinstatement of Christian Obi as head coach.

“A month after I was appointed as Heartland coach, I was asked to leave under strange circumstances, despite having turned the club’s fortunes around. The Imo State government wanted the reinstatement of the late Christian Obi—may his soul rest in peace,” Boboye said.

“I left without any issues, but they have refused to pay my outstanding wages after terminating my contract. It’s been almost a year now, and they seem unwilling to resolve it.

“I have reliable information that they have settled the debts owed to former players and coaches, but mine remains an exception.

“Coach Emmanuel Amuneke reached out to me, suggesting I hold off for a while. Meanwhile, Nigeria Football Federation President Ibrahim Musa Gusau mentioned that he would be granting Heartland a two to three-month waiver.

“I’ve lost my patience, and I believe the best course of action is to proceed with my original plan to take legal action against Heartland, as this is clearly a breach of contract.

“It’s unfair that I’ve been unable to support my family and manage my medical bills, as my former employers have effectively put my life on hold for the past 11 months.”

What’s more, at the time of publishing this article, Heartland management has not responded.

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SPORTS

Olunga’s Return From Injury Can Spur Kenya To Beat Cameroon In AFCON Qualifiers

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Michael Olunga returns to spur Kenya to beat Cameroon | fab.ng

The return to fitness of Michael Olunga, Kenya’s 30-year-old star striker, has ignited a national debate. Many fans believe his comeback will boost the Harambee Stars as they prepare to face Cameroon in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

Olunga was sidelined during Kenya’s opening matches of the qualifying campaign, which saw them draw against Zimbabwe and defeat Namibia. His absence was keenly felt, particularly in the match against Zimbabwe. There, the team struggled to create scoring opportunities. In his stead, coach Engin Firat opted for a midfield-heavy approach, but it proved ineffective.

However, introducing two strikers, Jonah Ayunga and John Avire, in the match against Namibia, yielded positive results. This is with Avire scoring the opening goal and Abuya adding the second.

Since recovering from his injury, Michael Olunga has made a strong impact for his club, Al Duhail SC. In the Qatar Stars League, he scored two goals in three matches. His performances fueled optimism among Kenyan fans that he could contribute significantly to the national team’s success in the upcoming qualifiers.

Michael Olunga return a big boost for Kenya vs Cameroon

Kenya’s Harambee Stars will resume their Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with a double-header against Cameroon’s Indomitable Lions. The first match will take place on October 11th at Japoma Stadium in Douala, Cameroon, followed by the return fixture at Mandela Stadium in Uganda on October 14th.

Red card scare for Olunga as 10-man Al Duhail secure victory

Both teams are currently tied for the lead in their group with four points each. Positive results from these matches will significantly enhance Kenya’s chances of qualifying for the AFCON finals in Morocco.

The return of star striker Michael Olunga is expected to provide a major boost to the Harambee Stars, according to former Gor Mahia CEO Omondi Aduda. Olunga’s presence will undoubtedly strengthen Kenya’s attacking options and improve their chances of success in the qualifiers.

“With Olunga in the starting XI, Cameroon goalkeeper Andre (Onana) will feel the heat. Olunga is a very powerful player, you saw how the team struggled minus him when they played Zimbabwe and Namibia,” Aduda said.

“Without Olunga, we already knew the results in the opening matches. Though it was an opportunity for others (the strikers in the team) to show what they could offer without Olunga, you could still feel his absence, you could see the body language of the players before the two games.

“Remember apart from being our lead striker, he is also the captain of the side, so you can imagine what he brings to the team, leadership qualities and goals. He is a threat whenever he plays, and for Olunga to score, he doesn’t need clearance from anywhere, he can score anytime, and that is why his return for the Cameroon double-header will be a big boost for Kenya.”

Aduda urged coach Firat to deploy Olunga and Ayunga as the starting strikers against Cameroon. He believes their partnership could pose a significant threat to the Indomitable Lions’ defence.

“The coach should use a formation whereby he can pair him (Olunga) with Sottish Premier League-based striker Ayunga to put more pressure on Cameroon’s defence. Their combination could prove a threat because they play in almost a similar way and with Olunga a threat from aerial balls, it will give Cameroon defenders a headache on whom to mark.

“Olunga’s agility to take on the defenders head-on could give Ayunga the opportunity and much-needed space to run behind him for any loose balls, it could help give Kenya the space to attack them (Cameroon). I would like to see the two paired together.”

Aduda cautioned Kenya’s defenders to be mindful of the danger posed by Carlos Baleba, a defensive midfielder for Brighton in the Premier League.

“Cameroon has a young sensation who plays for Brighton. He is on fire and Kenya defenders must work out ways to stop him, otherwise, he is the engine for the team, every good thing comes from him, he is a threat and it is good for Kenya players to stay alert.”

Aduda concluded, “Kenya needs creative midfielders to progress the ball from defence to attack quickly and create clear-cut chances for the strikers to finish the job.”

In a recent interview, Olunga expressed his disappointment at missing Kenya’s opening two qualifying matches.

“It was definitely tough for me watching from the sidelines because I always want to help my team as much as I can,” Olunga said.

“We had worked so hard with the medical team to try and see if I could make it even for one game, but it was impossible. However, I am glad we had some good results which put us in a good place heading to next month.”

On facing Cameroon, the former Girona forward said, “It’s going to be a big challenge, but I think we are capable of achieving something special. I’ve seen the work that the boys put in during the first two games, and we are in a strong position. With the right mentality, we can fight for positive results.”

Olunga made his Harambee Stars debut in a friendly against Seychelles in 2015. He scored his first goal for Kenya in a 2-0 victory over South Sudan.

During the 2019 AFCON, Olunga scored two goals to lead Kenya to a comeback win against Tanzania.

Olunga has represented Kenya on 60 occasions, scoring 29 goals. He has played for clubs in Japan, China, and Sweden, including Kashiwa Reysol, Guizhou Zhicheng, and IF Djurgarden.

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NBA Confirms Shot-blocking Dikembe Mutombo Dies At 58

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Dikembe Mutombo Dies At 58 | fab.ng

The National Basketball Association has announced the death of legendary centre Dikembe Mutombo. He succumbed to brain cancer at 58 years old on Monday.

Mutombo stood at an imposing seven feet and two inches tall. He used his exceptional height and defensive prowess to establish himself as one of basketball’s most intimidating shot-blockers during his illustrious career.

The Congolese-born athlete earned eight NBA All-Star selections throughout his time in the league. This demonstrates remarkable consistency and skill. Mutombo’s defensive excellence earned him the NBA Defensive Player of the Year award an impressive four times. With this, his legacy as one of basketball’s greatest defensive players is established.

Basketball fans across the globe adored Mutombo for his on-court achievements and also for his distinctive personality and contributions to the sport. His untimely passing marks the end of an era for basketball enthusiasts who witnessed his remarkable career and impact on the game.

Basketball Hall of Famer Dikembe Mutombo dies at age 58

“Dikembe Mutombo was simply larger than life. On the court, he was one of the greatest shot blockers and defensive players in the history of the NBA. Off the floor, he poured his heart and soul into helping others,” NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said in a statement.

Mutombo’s exuberant personality, characterized by his iconic finger-wag celebration, endeared him to fans throughout his 18-season career. This took him took him to six different teams in the NBA. He averaged 9.8 points and 10.3 rebounds per game and reached the NBA Finals twice.

Upon retiring in 2009, Dikembe Mutombo became the NBA’s inaugural global ambassador, actively promoting the sport in Africa.

“He loved what the game of basketball could do to make a positive impact on communities, especially in his native Democratic Republic of the Congo and across the continent of Africa,” said Silver.

“He was always accessible at NBA events over the years – with his infectious smile, deep booming voice and signature finger wag that endeared him to basketball fans of every generation.”

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Who Are The Best Fantasy Premier League Players Going Into Gameweek 6?

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Premier League Players: See best players for Gameweek 6 | fab.ng

Now, the highly anticipated showdown between Manchester City and Arsenal has concluded. And Fantasy Football is poised to return to its usual rhythm, so as you strategize for Gameweek 6, consider these best-performing Premier League players, carefully selected for you below.

To assist you in making informed decisions, we’ve identified one standout player in each position for the upcoming fixtures, along with a promising hidden gem.

Our Identified Best Premier League Players for Gameweek 6

Defender: Gabriel vs Leicester City (H) – 5.9 points

Arsenal’s defence has been a formidable force this season, maintaining three clean sheets in five game weeks and conceding only three goals, with two of those goals occurring while they were playing with a numerical disadvantage.

Managers who remained patient with centre-back Gabriel during a challenging stretch of away fixtures against Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City have been rewarded with his impressive performances. He has accumulated 22 points across those two matches, highlighted by a clean sheet and consecutive goals.

Gabriel stands out as one of the most attacking defenders in the Premier League, renowned for his aerial prowess from set pieces. His three big chances on goal this season, supported by Bukayo Saka‘s exceptional dead-ball deliveries, underscore the Gunners’ proficiency in scoring from set pieces.

The only potential concern for those considering investing in the Arsenal defence is the fitness of goalkeeper David Raya, who is uncertain for this game due to a muscular injury.

His presence has been instrumental, as evidenced by his 16 clean sheets last season and his current ranking as the third-best goalkeeper in terms of saves this campaign with 23. If Raya is unavailable, his absence will undoubtedly be a significant loss.

Gabriel and Saliba; Premier League Players: See best players for Gameweek 6 | fab.ng
Gabriel vs Saliba

Midfielder: Mohamed Salah vs Wolves (A) – 7.8 points

Mohamed Salah continues to be the standout midfielder in the game, having contributed seven goal involvements in the first five gameweeks. Despite the trend of selling Salah on wildcards in favour of Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka to capitalize on the Gunners’ favourable fixture swing, our predictions suggest that this decision may be premature.

Salah travels to Wolves this week, a team that has struggled significantly from a defensive standpoint at the beginning of the season. With only one point on the board and 14 goals conceded from 15 big chances, Wolves have defensive vulnerabilities that Salah can exploit. The absence of defender Yerson Mosquera due to a season-ending injury further compounds their defensive challenges.

This fixture presents an ideal opportunity for Salah to excel. His impressive performances in away games, including double-digit hauls with a goal and an assist at Ipswich in Gameweek 1 and a goal and two assists against Manchester United at Old Trafford in Gameweek 3, highlight his ability to thrive on the road.

Salah’s track record against Wolves is also noteworthy, with four goals and five assists from 11 Premier League appearances. His versatility and goal-scoring threat make him a valuable asset, as evidenced by his league-leading 12 shots on target, 12 key passes, and status as the team’s primary penalty-taker among midfielders.

Mohamed Salah stats

Forward: Erling Haaland vs Newcastle United (A) – 8.1 points

With just five game weeks completed, we are rapidly exhausting our vocabulary of superlatives to describe the extraordinary performances of Erling Haaland, who has captivated us in the Premier League with his remarkable 10-goal tally. Haaland has surpassed even his own lofty standards, and it’s evident that the summer break and a full preseason have significantly contributed to his exceptional form.

He is one of only two players to have recorded an attacking return in every single game this season, with four of his 10 goals coming away from home. Notably, Haaland is projected to outscore his rival Mohamed Salah in each of the next four game weeks, providing compelling justification for many to consider selling the Egyptian.

Haaland’s underlying statistics remain impressive. He leads the league in shots on target with 19, has had 10 big chances on goal, and boasts an unmatched expected goals metric. Additionally, his penalty-taking ability serves as an extra boost to his points potential.

The injury to Rodri is a significant setback for Manchester City and their aspirations for a fifth consecutive Premier League title. However, his absence at the beginning of the season has had minimal impact on Haaland’s output. This week, Haaland faces Newcastle United, a team that has struggled defensively, conceding six goals and recording only one clean sheet this season.

Erling Haaland: Premier League Players: See best players for Gameweek 6 | fab.ng
Erling Haaland points

Hidden Gem: Chris Wood vs Fulham (H) – 5.8 points

Nottingham Forest’s Chris Wood has quietly amassed an impressive start to the season, scoring three goals in five games. His recent conversion of a penalty against Brighton has further solidified his potential as a reliable penalty taker.

This form builds upon his strong goal-scoring record from the latter part of the previous season, as the team has experienced a resurgence under the guidance of manager Nuno Espirito Santo. Given the club’s decision not to sign another forward during the summer transfer window, Wood is expected to secure consistent starts, although he may be prone to early substitutions.

Nottingham Forest’s upcoming fixtures remain favorable for the next six gameweeks, with Fulham being the next team to visit the City Ground. Wood has a history of success against Fulham, having scored in their previous encounter last season, which resulted in a 3-1 victory for Forest.

Fulham has struggled defensively, conceding five goals in five games this season, making them a potential target for Wood’s goal-scoring prowess.

Chris Wood: Premier League Players: See best players for Gameweek 6 | fab.ng
Chris Wood’s upcoming fixtures

As Gameweek 6 approaches, the Fantasy Premier League landscape continues to evolve. The best performers highlighted in this analysis offer valuable insights for making informed transfer decisions and optimizing your team’s potential.

Remember to carefully consider each player’s individual attributes, team dynamics, and upcoming fixtures before making your final selections. By analyzing player performance trends, you can position your Fantasy Premier League players for success in the weeks to come.

If you would like to read more on sports news, check here.

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