SPORTS

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

Published

3 months ago

October 2, 2024

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.”

Maximum points
+3p
+1⚽️

Keep working pic.twitter.com/okozgzoClu

— MICHAEL OLUNGA (@OgadaOlunga) September 21, 2024

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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SPORTS

Cleveland Cavaliers’ Forward Isaac Okoro Out For Two Weeks With Shoulder Injury

Published

2 days ago

December 20, 2024

Reporter

Forward Isaac Okoro out with shoulder injury | fab.ng

The Cleveland Cavaliers will be without forward Isaac Okoro for at least two weeks after he sustained a shoulder injury during Monday’s dominant 130-101 victory over the Brooklyn Nets.

The 23-year-old was diagnosed with a sprained AC joint in his right shoulder. This is an injury that will be re-evaluated in a couple of weeks to assess his readiness to return.

Okoro, now in his fifth year with the Cavaliers, has been a reliable contributor this season. He averaged 6.6 points, 2.3 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game.

Notably, he is shooting with exceptional efficiency, achieving career-high percentages in both field goal accuracy (49.5%) and three-point success (49.2%).

Isaac Okoro 3 pt % by season:

2020-21: 29%
2021-22: 35%
2022-23: 36.3%
2023-24: 39.1%
2024-25: 49.2% (#2 in NBA) pic.twitter.com/FWYbbWy63i

— Across The Cavs (@AcrossCavs) December 19, 2024

His performance reflects a steady improvement in offensive consistency while maintaining his reputation as a strong defender.

Selected as the fifth overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft, Okoro built his career on stellar perimeter defence.

This season, opposing players have struggled to score against him from beyond the arc, shooting just 35.7% when he is the primary defender.

This defensive mark is the second-lowest of his career, following the 35.5% he held opponents to during the 2021-2022 season.

Okoro’s value to the Cavaliers was underscored when he signed a three-year, $38 million contract extension in the offseason. This secures his place on the team through 2027.

His blend of defensive prowess and improving offensive contributions has made him a key piece of Cleveland’s lineup.

Currently, the Cavaliers boast the best record in the NBA at 23-4, thanks to their well-rounded roster and consistent performance.

Despite Okoro’s absence, the team will aim to maintain its winning momentum while he recovers and prepares for a return to action.

Check out more sports news here.

SPORTS

Africa’s Best Player Ademola Lookman Credits Atalanta for His Rise to African Football’s Pinnacle

Published

3 days ago

December 19, 2024

Adaeze Okechi

Lookman credits Atalanta for his football development | fab.ng

Ademola Lookman, the reigning African Player of the Year, has acknowledged the significant role that Serie A club Atalanta has played in his footballing journey.

The 27-year-old Nigerian international outshone Achraf Hakimi, Ronwen Williams, Serhou Guirassy, and Simon Adingra to claim the prestigious 2024 CAF Awards in Marrakech.

Before this achievement, Lookman secured a remarkable 14th position in the 2024 Men’s Ballon d’Or rankings.

His exceptional season with Atalanta, culminating in a hat-trick during the Europa League final victory over Bayer Leverkusen, undoubtedly contributed to this recognition.

When enquired about the impact of his career transitions from the English Premier League to the Bundesliga and subsequently to Serie A, Lookman shared his insights:

“I think the environment that the club (Atalanta) gave me has been very key to obviously my growth as a player.

“And also, just timing, you know, I’ve always believed in myself and to be able to achieve great things. But, yeah, the time has come and, you know, just blessed to be here.”

Five different winners? make that 6️⃣.

Ademola extends Naija’s lead with the most Men’s Player of the Year winners. 🇳🇬🏆#CAFAwards2024 pic.twitter.com/KmbGUGlYyC

— CAF_Online (@CAF_Online) December 18, 2024

Lookman’s Journey from Waterloo to African Football’s Elite

Ademola Lookman’s footballing journey began at Waterloo, where he ascended through the youth ranks.

His talent caught the eye of Charlton Athletic, who offered him his first professional contract. In 2017, he made a significant move to Everton, signing a four-and-a-half-year deal.

However, limited opportunities at Goodison Park led him to seek a fresh start at RB Leipzig. A series of loan spells to Fulham and Leicester City followed.

This is where he showcased his abilities, scoring eight goals and providing eight assists in various competitions.

In 2021, Lookman made a pivotal decision by signing a four-year contract with Atalanta, joining fellow Africans Jeremie Boga and Moustapha Cisse.

This move proved to be a turning point. He flourished in Serie A and earned a more prominent role in the Nigerian national team.

Reflecting on his career, Lookman acknowledged the impact of his infamous Panenka penalty miss during his time at Fulham.

He emphasised how he transformed this setback into a source of strength. Also, he expressed his hope that his recent achievements would inspire future generations of footballers.

“Yes, they were not very happy with me, but, you know, they gave me a lot of love and support after especially the coach, Scott Parker,” he continued.

“He helped me a lot to overcome that time but like I said on the stage it’s about turning your pain into power.

“I’ve managed to do that over the past couple of years and continue to do so. To the kids out there aspiring to improve and achieve in life: life may knock you down, and it may not deal you the best cards.”

2024 African Player of the Year 💫 pic.twitter.com/a7K0l0r5Hh

— Ademola Lookman (@Alookman_) December 17, 2024

Lookman Joins Nigeria’s Elite Footballers

Ademola Lookman’s triumph as African Player of the Year marks a significant milestone in Nigerian football history.

He becomes the sixth Nigerian to claim this prestigious honour. This follows in the footsteps of football legends Rasheed Yekini, Emmanuel Amuneke, Nwankwo Kanu, Victor Ikpeba, and Victor Osimhen.

Despite representing England at various youth levels, Lookman pledged his allegiance to Nigeria. This includes the victorious 2017 FIFA U17 World Cup campaign.

He made his Super Eagles debut in March 2022, contributing to their 2022 FIFA World Cup qualification bid.

Lookman played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s impressive performance at the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire.

His brace against Cameroon in the Round of 16 and match-winning goal against Angola in the quarterfinals highlighted his impact on the team.

As Lookman continues his stellar form, he is set to feature for Atalanta in their upcoming Coppa Italia clash against Cesena. Just four days later, they will host Empoli in a Serie A encounter.

Atalanta, led by manager Gian Piero Gasperini, currently occupies the top spot in the Italian Serie A table with 37 points from 16 matches. They hold a two-point advantage over their closest rivals, Napoli.

SPORTS

Everton Confirm Majority Takeover By Friedkin Group To End Moshiri Tenure

Published

3 days ago

December 19, 2024

Reporter

Everton confirm majority takeover by Friedkin Group | fab.ng

The Friedkin Group has acquired a 94.1% stake in Everton, becoming the Premier League club’s new majority owner. The American group paid over £400 million to end Farhad Moshiri’s turbulent tenure.

The Premier League has approved the agreement reached in September. This makes Everton the 10th club that Americans own in the division.

“Today marks a momentous and proud occasion for The Friedkin Group as we become custodians of this iconic football club,” said incoming Executive Chairman Marc Watts.

“We are committed to leading Everton into an exciting new era both on and off the pitch. Providing immediate financial stability to the Club has been a key priority, and we are delighted to have achieved this.

“While restoring Everton to its rightful place in the Premier League table will take time, today is the first step in that journey.”

Club Statement: Everton Football Club acquired by Roundhouse Capital Holdings Limited, part of The Friedkin Group. 🔵

— Everton (@Everton) December 19, 2024

Dan Friedkin leads the Texas-based Friedkin Group and owns Serie A club Roma. The club has a reported net worth of £6.16 billion. Friedkin will serve as Everton’s board chairman, while Watts will manage the club’s operations.

The American group put forward a list of priorities for Everton. They aim to strengthen the first team, develop the academy, improve the women’s side, and enhance the club’s global reputation.

Dan Friedkin wrote an open letter expressing his pride about becoming Everton’s new majority owner.

Dan Friedkin writes to Evertonians following our takeover completion. ✍️🔵

— Everton (@Everton) December 19, 2024

“I take immense pride in welcoming one of England’s most historic football clubs to our global family, The Friedkin Group,” the 59-year-old said.

“Everton represents a proud legacy, and we are honoured to become custodians of this great institution.

“Whilst we are new to the Club, we fully understand the vital role Everton plays in local culture, history, and the lives of Evertonians here and around the world.

“We are deeply committed to honouring this legacy while contributing positively to the community, economy, and people of this remarkable city.”

Everton’s first match under new ownership will take place against Chelsea on Sunday, December 22nd. Members of the new ownership group are expected to attend the match.

Check out more sports updates here.