SPORTS

Yakubu Ayegbeni On His Pride Representing Nigeria And Dealing With Infamous World Cup Miss

Published

2 months ago

October 24, 2024

Yakubu Ayegbeni on representing Nigeria; World Cup miss | fab.ng

FIFA legend Yakubu Ayegbeni reflects on his illustrious career, expressing no remorse for representing Nigeria despite enduring relentless bullying over a missed goal during the 2010 World Cup.

The 41-year-old striker’s journey with the Super Eagles began at the tender age of 17. Making his debut in April 2000 against Eritrea, he quickly established himself as a prolific goal-scorer.

Over the next decade, Yakubu’s contributions were instrumental in Nigeria’s success, including securing a bronze medal at the 2002 AFCON.

However, the 2010 World Cup match against South Korea greatly shaded his career. A missed goal in that match became a defining moment in Nigerian football history, often overshadowing his numerous achievements.

Despite the negative attention, Yakubu Ayegbeni remains proud of his international career. He considers it a privilege to have represented Nigeria at the highest level, participating in the AFCON, World Cup, and Olympics. Yet, he laments that his positive contributions are frequently overlooked, overshadowed by the infamous missed goal.

“Me, regret playing for Nigeria? No chance. It is an honour for me playing for Nigeria, every player wants to play for his country. I was born in Nigeria, grew up in Benin, Edo state Nigeria. It is an honour to wear Nigeria’s green and white jersey of Nigeria,” Yakubu told Flashscore in a no-holds-barred interview.

“Being at the World Cup in South Africa is (another) great (opportunity) representing my country. We should all forget the miss and remember the good ones. It is funny when people still talk about it – it is almost 14 years already – and people still talk about the miss and not the good ones.

EXCLUSIVE: Yakubu tells he has no regrets playing for Nigeria 🇳🇬 and coping with infamous World Cup miss. 📌 pic.twitter.com/kd3UEwJCAa

— Shina Oludare 🇳🇬 (@sportingshina) October 24, 2024

“They did (not talk) about when I qualified Nigeria for the World Cup in South Korea and Japan but was dropped; they never spoke about that. I still had the courage to take the penalty after 10 minutes and people still send me message about it missing that goal.

“I don’t think we would still win the 2010 World Cup. We have been to other World Cups plus the ones we did not qualify for but people never talked about it.

“We all watch Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, they all miss chances, but people still talk about my own miss – I think people just love me for that.”

Lars Lagerback’s Super Eagles faced a daunting task at the 2010 World Cup, having suffered defeats to Argentina and Greece. A victory against South Korea was imperative to keep their hopes of reaching the knockout stage alive.

Nigeria made a promising start at the Moses Mabhida Stadium, with Kalu Uche netting an early goal. However, South Korea fought back, taking the lead with two goals.

Yakubu Ayegbeni, renowned for his spectacular goals, had a golden opportunity to equalize but missed from close range, a moment that became a defining point in the match.

Despite the missed chance, Yakubu redeemed himself with a penalty goal later in the game. However, Nigeria ultimately failed to secure a win and exited the tournament at the bottom of Group B.

Yakubu continues to endure bullying over the missed goal but refuses to apologize. He believes football is a game of highs and lows, where even the greatest players can make mistakes.

“They always try to bring it back and say ‘How I wish you scored, we should have been to the next stage’. Are you sure we could have still won the World Cup?

“Regret missing that chance? Of course, as a football player but we move on from that. I keep getting messages upon messages like ‘we will never forgive you’, ‘we will not forget about the miss’.

“It is good they will never forget about the miss; it is one of the bad misses of the World Cup even me, I will never forget about it, it is part of football.

“They said I was smiling, yes, I was smiling but inside me, do you know how I feel? Do you think you are happy about missing chances? Ronaldo, Messi, (Daniel) Amokachi, Jay Jay (Okocha), (Nwankwo) Kanu and other great players also miss chances but we all move on.”

The former Portsmouth star continued when asked how his girls respond to the hurtful remarks made about him: “They don’t even care about it. They say ‘how come they never moved on?'”

Interestingly, Yakubu Ayegbeni’s legacy extends beyond his own playing career. His daughter, Katriel, is following in his footsteps, pursuing a professional netball career and aiming for a spot on the English national team.

Yakubu Ayegbeni made history in 2002 when he became the first African to score a hat-trick in the UEFA Champions League. This accomplishment, achieved while playing for Maccabi Haifa against Olympiacos, solidified his status as a football legend. To this day, he remains the only Nigerian to have achieved such a feat.

Did you know that Yakubu Ayegbeni is the first African and the only Nigerian to score a hat-trick in the Champions League? Show some respect for that achievement biko! #UCL ⚽️⚽️⚽️💕🫡 pic.twitter.com/8A2mATMx0F

— Shina Oludare 🇳🇬 (@sportingshina) October 23, 2024

“To apologise to Nigerians? Never! I will never. They should focus on the situation in the country and stop talking about my chance. No one ever talked about the World Cup I was never taken to; they talk only about the bad ones – that is Nigerians for you,” he continued.

“They don’t talk about the good things you’ve done for the country, sacrificing one’s life for the country. You travel to where there is war to play for your country.

“We did not qualify for the Qatar 2022 World Cup). Did they speak about it? No. Let’s move on and think about the present and not the past. It is not arrogance, but people have to understand the fact that have to understand.

“I know I have served Nigeria and I am happy to wear the (green and white jersey). Ten years playing for Nigeria is great.”

Yakubu Ayegbeni’s career extended beyond his playing days. Following his departure from Coventry City in 2017, he transitioned into a new role as a FIFA legend and football ambassador, dedicated to developing the future of the sport.

Beyond his football-related endeavours, Yakubu has also established a successful business empire. He is the owner of a chain of businesses. He is the CEO of Yak Sports Academy, a renowned institution that has produced talented players for European teams.

Check out more sports news here.

Up Next

Victor Olatunji Thrilled To Achieve Manchester City Dream Despite Sparta Prague Loss

Don't Miss

New Zealand’s Kane Williamson Out Of Second Test Against India In Pune

SPORTS

Referees To Explain VAR Decisions To Crowd In EFL Cup Semi-Finals Trial

Published

1 week ago

December 30, 2024

Reporter

Referees to explain VAR decisions in League Cup trial | fab.ng

The English Football League (EFL) announced on Monday that referees will explain Video Assistant Referee (VAR) decisions to the crowd during a trial period.

This trial will be implemented in the upcoming League Cup semi-final matches.

During the trial, referees will utilise the stadium’s public address system to communicate the final decision to the spectators.

This communication will occur after reviewing the situation on the VAR pitchside monitor. It could also be after making decisions on matters such as accidental handball by a goal scorer or offside judgments.

“The new pilot forms part of PGMOL’s broader commitment to transparency and embracing technological advancements for the benefit of Match Officials and fans,” the EFL said in a statement.

BREAKING: VAR will be in place for this season’s Carabao Cup semi-finals which will also see a trial of in-stadium decision announcements 🚨 pic.twitter.com/N4rjTU7xqL

— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) December 30, 2024

In-stadium VAR announcements have already been successfully implemented in trial runs at prestigious FIFA tournaments. This includes the Women’s World Cup last year and the 2023 Club World Cup.

It is important to note that VAR is exclusively utilised in the League Cup at the semi-final stage. This trial will encompass both legs of the highly anticipated matches between Arsenal and Newcastle United. Also, Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool will play as well.

The first-leg matches will take place at Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium on January 7th and at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on the following day.

Check out more sports updates here.

SPORTS

Amad Diallo Determined To “Make History” With Struggling Manchester United

Published

1 week ago

December 28, 2024

Reporter

Amad Diallo to 'make history' with Manchester United | fab.ng

Amad Diallo, 22, has boldly declared his intention to “make history” with Manchester United, despite the club’s ongoing struggles in the Premier League.

Under new manager Ruben Amorim, who replaced the sacked Erik ten Hag after arriving from Sporting Lisbon, United have faced a tough start.

The team has lost five of Amorim’s 10 matches across all competitions. This includes disappointing defeats to Wolves, Bournemouth, and Tottenham in their last three outings.

United are under mounting pressure as they prepare to face Newcastle at Old Trafford on Monday. Currently, they’re sitting in 14th place in the Premier League and only eight points above the relegation zone.

Looking ahead to our final game of 2024 👊#MUFC || #PL

— Manchester United (@ManUtd) December 27, 2024

Despite these challenges, Diallo has emerged as a rare bright spot for the club.

The Ivory Coast forward recently secured a dramatic late winner in the Manchester derby against City. He has also delivered an impressive two goals and six assists in the league this season.

With his sights set on helping Manchester United rise back to the top, Diallo has joined forces with the club’s other young talents to lead the way forward.

“We are part of the project, we have so many young players for this club, especially Garna (Alejandro Garnacho), Kobbie (Mainoo), Joshua (Zirkzee), Rasmus (Hojlund), me, we are young players who want to make history for this club,” Diallo told MUTV.

“We want to do our best every game. Sometimes it cannot work, but you can see in the pitch we are very focused to do our best for this club, because we want to bring back this club to the level it was before.

“So, for the young lads, we just have to keep going, work hard and the most important thing is to listen to the old men, the old players, learn every day.

“We have now a new manager, he likes to work with young players, and he brings a new system, so we just have to follow it and try to do our best every game.”

Back at home for the final time in 2024 🏠#MUFC || #PL pic.twitter.com/pMXAG2A10p

— Manchester United (@ManUtd) December 28, 2024

Amad Diallo has showcased his versatility during the early stages of Ruben Amorim’s tenure.

They excelled in both the right wing-back position and more advanced attacking roles.

“In football this can happen,” he added. “Don’t be focused in only one position. Sometimes you can play as a defender, sometimes as a striker. Wherever the manager puts me I’m ready to fight for the team.

“I just want to play, right wing, number 10, anywhere. I say to the manager if you need me as a ‘keeper I’m ready to do my best, I will fight for the team and for my team-mates; I want to make history for this club.”

Check out more sports news here.

SPORTS

Ex-Arsenal Star Ahmed Mohammed On Katsina Academy & Partnership With Mbappe’s AS Bondy

Published

1 week ago

December 28, 2024

Reporter

Ex-Arsenal star Ahmed Mohammed on Katsina Academy... | fab.ng

Ahmed Mohammed, a former Arsenal Academy and West Ham United youth prodigy, has passionately shared the inspiration behind founding the fast-growing Katsina Football Academy.

During an in-depth interview with Flashscore at their London office, he also detailed the academy’s ambitious vision.

Though established less than 13 months ago, Katsina Football Academy has already emerged as one of Africa’s most prominent and internationally recognised football nurseries.

The academy has rapidly gained a reputation for nurturing talent. Several of its players now feature in Nigerian youth teams.

Located in northern Nigeria, Katsina Football Academy has also become a prime destination for European clubs eager to scout the exceptional talent within its ranks.

Meet the quintessential Ahmed Mohammed, the London-based former youth star of Arsenal and West Ham United, who also had stints at Dagenham & Redbridge FC. Today, he’s using football as a tool for social change and development through his Katsina Football Academy, with some of his… pic.twitter.com/RJomNIYMKf

— Shina Oludare 🇳🇬 (@sportingshina) December 27, 2024

Ahmed Mohammed explained that his decision to create the academy stemmed from a personal vision to nurture grassroots talent in Africa, even with numerous other academies across the continent.

“Growing up in London, football was more than a game – it was a lifeline. It provided purpose and a positive outlet during a time when negative influences surrounded me, “ said Mohammed.

“Football instilled discipline, teamwork, and focus, keeping me grounded and guiding me away from trouble. It helped me build resilience, determination, and a vision for a better future, and I wanted to offer those same opportunities to others.

“The inspiration for Katsina Football Academy came from a desire to use football to transform lives. During a visit to Katsina, I saw untapped potential in young people – raw talent and ambition, but also a lack of structure.

“My vision was to create a platform where youth could develop athletic skills, life skills, education, and direction. Football teaches discipline, leadership, and teamwork – values for life.

“The academy offers a safe space to dream big, stay away from negative influences, and develop self-worth, empowering youth to succeed on and off the field.”

What Makes Katsina Stand Out

Like many other young football enthusiasts in London, Mohammed aspired to greatness in the sport. He showcased his talent at the youth level, representing Arsenal, West Ham United, and Dagenham & Redbridge.

Unfortunately, injuries and personal challenges cut his football journey short, forcing him to abandon his dream.

Katsina Football Academy coaches, alongside Belgium scouts, participated in the 5th Edition of the Global Football Scouting Tournament held in Lagos, in partnership with KVC Westerlo Belgium. pic.twitter.com/sH9KwfqsrE

— KATSINA FOOTBALL ACADEMY (@ktf_academy) December 22, 2024

Determined to turn his setbacks into an opportunity, Mohammed drew from the lessons of his brief career and his keen observations of African football.

This combination of experience and insight allowed Ahmed Mohammed to create something truly unique with Katsina Football Academy.

He continued,

“Katsina Football Academy stands out for its holistic approach to player development, focusing on both athletic and personal growth.

“As Chairman, I bring experience from playing for top UK academies like Arsenal, West Ham, and Dagenham & Redbridge, and working with Tottenham Hotspur to transform young lives.

“The academy goes beyond football by offering life-skills training, mentorship, and educational support. We also provide pathways for players to showcase their talents internationally and ensure inclusivity by making the academy accessible to underprivileged youth.

“Our qualified coaching staff, modern facilities, and emphasis on character building create a strong foundation for success both on and off the field.

“Additionally, we integrate education with football through structured schedules, partnerships with schools, on-site programs, and vocational training, empowering players for future careers beyond football. Our mission is to develop well-rounded individuals ready to thrive in all aspects of life.”

Collaboration with Mbappe’s Academy

Katsina Football Academy achieved a major milestone by forming a football development partnership with AS Bondy. This is the French club famous for discovering Real Madrid and French star Kylian Mbappe.

In October 2024, the partnership was formalised in Paris, opening doors for young, talented footballers from Katsina State.

Alhamdulillah its a done deal🙏🏿🎉
Partnership secured with a club in France with ⁦@ktf_academy⁩.
Putting Katsina on the 🌎
Thank you for believing in me My Excellency ⁦@dikko_radda⁩
⁦@fatimatukr⁩ ⁦@Miqdad_Jnr⁩ ⁦@BashirAhmaad⁩ ⁦@gambomanzo⁩ pic.twitter.com/KTtTPGepCk

— Ahmed Mohammed (@youvsyoultd) October 24, 2024

This collaboration allows these players to travel to France. There, they showcase their skills and pursue opportunities to secure professional contracts with European clubs.

Mohammed added,

“The partnership with Bondy Academy was driven by a shared vision to empower young football talents and offer global opportunities.

“Bondy’s proven track record in developing players aligns with Katsina Football Academy’s mission. This collaboration aims to provide exposure to international scouts, emphasise holistic development, and offer world-class coaching.

“Bondy’s success with players like Kylian Mbappe inspired Katsina to follow suit, creating a pathway for Nigerian talent. The partnership also strengthens our position as a key hub for football development in Africa, ensuring grassroots talent has the resources to succeed.

“Ultimately, this agreement marks a milestone in building a brighter future for young players, offering both football and life opportunities.”

Katsina Football Academy was launched in September 2023. It has already produced exceptional talents like Umar Yusuf, Ahmad Nasir, and Usman Abdullahi.

The academy actively strives to establish itself as a premier institution for football development and youth empowerment in Nigeria and beyond.

Check out more sports news here.