800 Meter World Record Holder David Rudisha, Up Against the Youth Movements in the Prefontaine Classics. | INFORMATION NIGERIA

800 Meter World Record Holder David Rudisha, Up Against the Youth Movements in the Prefontaine Classics.

Posted by: Omaku Cephas on April 15, 2013

David Rudisha, the World Record holder will be leading a world-class 800 meter field at the Prefontaine Classics.Rudisha who shattered the 1.41 barrier in London is no stranger when it comes to racing the best in the world. The 39th edition of the Prefontaine Classic on June 1 2013 will be his first opportunity to display his incredible talent at historic Hayward Field.Meanwhile the Kenyan superstar recognizes the significance of the event.“I’ve heard about the great crowd at Eugene. Bernard Lagat tells me it’s where they have a special interest in middle distances,” says the 24- year- old Rudisha. “So I’m so excited to go and run there for the first time. I hope to run well and give the crowd something to enjoy.”Rudisha is an amazing talent when it comes to the 800 meters. He now owns 6 of the 8 fastest times in history, including his world record of 1:40.91 set on his way to winning an Olympic Gold in London 2012. He was named men’s Athlete of the Year by Track Field News magazine for his stellar 2012 season.Every 2012 Olympic finalist are all in the race, however, Rudisha’s confirmation makes for a phenomenal Pre Classic field. It also makes the men 800m the 5th of 5 events announced by the Prefontaine Classic that will include every medalist from the London Olympics.The silver and bronze medalist from London may not only be teenagers but record setters in their own right. Nigel Amos of Botswana who won silver in London is one of the only 5 men to have completed the race under 1:42, and the World Junior champion and record holder (1:41.73) is the fastest of any 18- year- old ever. His personal record equals that of legendary Sebastian Coe, whose 1981 world record was set more than a decade before Amos was born. Timothy Kitum of Kenya who won bronze in London extends the youth movement, as his PB of 1:42.53 is the fastest ever by a 17- year- old. Amos and Kitum were ranked No. 3 and 5 in the world last year by Track and Field News (TFN.)Mohammed Aman of Ethiopia, the only man to have defeated Rudisha, not once but twice in the last 3 years will also be in contention. Aman, the 2012 World Indoor champion defeated Rudisha in 2011 and 2012 and also a finalist in both the 2011 World Championship and 2012 Olympics. Aman’s aim is set on this summer’s World Championships in Moscow. Aman was ranked No.2 in the world last year by TFN.Two more world- class teenagers grace the Pre Classic field, Leonard Kosencha and Abraham Rotich, both from Kenya, ranked Nos. 4 and 6 in the world last year by TFN. Kosencha won the 2011 World Youth Championship over Aman, Kitum and Amos. Rotich, 19, is the only teenager in the field not eligible for junior records this year, as he turn 20 before the end of the year.The Prefontaine Classics will include the duo of Duane Solomon and Nick Symmonds both from America, Abubakar Kaki of Sudan, Andrew Osagie of Team GB, Adam Kszczcot of Poland and Job Kinyor of Kenya.The Prefontaine Classic is the longest- running outdoor invitational track and field meet in America and is part of the IAAF Diamond League of meets held worldwide annually. Last year edition, presented the most 2012 Olympic gold medalists (20) of any invitational meet in the world.

“We Did Not See This Coming At All” – Ghana Coach Surprised After Eaglets Run Riot | INFORMATION NIGERIA

“We Did Not See This Coming At All” – Ghana Coach Surprised After Eaglets Run Riot

Posted by: Deolu on April 16, 2013

Paa Kwesi Fabin, coach of the Ghanaian U-17 has confessed that his side were outplayed by the Flying Eaglets from Nigeria after they lost 6-1 in their opening game of the CAF U-17 Championship.

Isaac Success scored four times, while Bernard Bulbwa and Kelechi Iheanacho added one goal each, as the Eaglets thrashed their neighbours.

“Nigeria surprised us tonight, they were far better than we had expected and outplayed us. We did not see this heavy defeat coming at all and not only were the Nigerians good but they were stronger too.“

The Ghanaians will now be hoping to get their competition back on track, when they face Congo in their second game.

“We have to regroup and try to salvage our campaign to reach semi-finals but now we can only look ahead to one game at a time,” he said.

“So we need to have a look at how we approached this game because our tactics and set–up did not work today.

“Our focus shifts to the next game against Congo and not the one beyond that and little by little we see if we can recover from today’s set back.”

Arsenal Host Everton at Emirate Stadium as the Battle for a Top Four Finish Intensifies. | INFORMATION NIGERIA

Arsenal Host Everton at Emirate Stadium as the Battle for a Top Four Finish Intensifies.

Posted by: Omaku Cephas on April 16, 2013

The match between Arsenal FC and Everton FC has come at a time when both clubs are nursing the prospect of appearing in European competitions next season. With the struggle for a top four finish- doomed to proceed until the last day of the season- on both managers’ mind, neither club will be willing to drop points in tonight’s fixture; guess Emirate staffers will be lighting up the flood lights for a crunch tie.

Evertons Deadly Weapon Marouane Fellaini.

In the last five meetings between the two clubs at Emirate stadium, Arsenal had won four of those fixtures and drawn one, notably is the December 2011 match when a Robin van Persie’s 70th minute goal clinched the winner for the North Londoners. Everton are yet to defeat Arsenal in their last ten encounters in the League making it seven out of ten wins for the gunners, plus three draws.However, tonight’s meeting is likely to be the defining moment of the season for two clubs with a recent good run of form in the Premier League. Arsenal has won five out of their last six fixtures, with the 2- 1 loss to Tottenham at White Hart Lane being their most recent shortfall. Everton’s 2- 2 draw at White Hart Lane on April 7 and their loss, away to Norwich makes it four wins out of six for the Toffees. Most worthy of praise is the manner with which they outclassed relegation threatened Rangers in the 2- 0 win at Goodison Park last Saturday.Arsenal FC are 3rd on the Premier League log with 59 points, having played one match more than the fourth placed team, Chelsea. Everton are 6th on the log with 55 points and they’ve scored 49 goals less than Arsenal presently on 82 goals.Everton manager, David Moyes believes tonight’s fixture wouldn’t deter the club’s resolution to be in Europe next season.“We feel that no matter what happens, we are still in with a fight for European spot and think for Everton to be saying this at this time of the year is a positive thing and something we should be pleased with.”One player who has been linked with a move away from Emirate this summer, is the club’s captain, Thomas Vermaelen, due to lack of playing time. The Belgian international may have to start from the bench as Per Mertesacker returns from a one- match suspension against Norwich. Nacho Monreal is expected to start at left- back after been rested against Norwich. Theo Walcott and Lucas Podolski will both be relishing a recall after coming off the bench against Norwich. Midfielder Tomas Rosicky, Goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski and a long time absentee Abou Diaby are the major injury doubt for the gunners, with hamstring, rib and knee injuries respectively.Moyes will be assessing a few knocks and bruises ahead of the trip to London. The squad was lucky to have come through Saturday’s victory over QPR without any significant injuries.Referee for this match will be Neil Swarbrick.

Cavani May Leave Napoli this summer. | INFORMATION NIGERIA

Cavani May Leave Napoli this summer.

Posted by: Omaku Cephas on April 16, 2013

Edinson Cavani.

Edinson Cavani has hinted he may leave Napoli at the end of the season. The Napoli striker has attracted interest from a host to European clubs including, Barcelona, Real Madrid, Manchester City and Paris St German.Aurelio De Laurentiis, Napoli president has slapped a £60 million price tag on the player in an attempt to ward off potential bidders.Cavani latest comment suggests he may well be considering a move away from Walter Mazzarri’s men.“I feel good at Napoli, but in football there are many things to be put in consideration,” said the Uruguay international.“I can only say I will give the best for this jersey until the last day I’ll wear it.”Edinson Cavani has scored 29 times in 36 appearances for Napoli this season. Napoli currently sits second in the Serie A with 63 points having played a match more than League leaders Juventus.

Football transfer: Nani and Wayne Rooney to leave Man U for PSG | INFORMATION NIGERIA

Football transfer: Nani and Wayne Rooney to leave Man U for PSG

Posted by: Deolu on April 16, 2013

The Mill has changed, man. It was not all that long ago that a trawl through the day’s tabloid tittle-tattle might bring news of a new transfer target for Burton Albion or who Gillingham could be looking at bringing in. Wondering about Morecambe’s summer spending plans? This was the place to be. Well, sometimes. OK, once. But not now. These days it’s all about the big boys. Indeed it’s all about the biggest boys.

And today’s red-top rumours are a case in point. If you’re not at the top of the football food-chain then you’re not getting a look in. PSG, for example are confident of sealing a £25m move for Wayne Rooney in the summer. And they also want Nani to take their Old Trafford spending up to £40m. Former PSG director Michel Moulin said: “I announce to you from trusted sources: Rooney to PSG is done. He will be there next season.”

Next up, the big beasts of Chelsea and Manchester City. They’re both keeping tabs on Mario Gómez, just in case they miss out on Edinson Cavani. In unrelated news the Mill is keeping tabs on a washboard and pail just in case it misses out on the Super Turbo Washer-Dryer Deluxe with built-in teasmaid

André Villas-Boas is ready for a long-term relationship with a full-back and Benoît Assou-Ekotto doesn’t fit the bill. Internazionale’s Alvaro Pereira currently tops the shopping list, just ahead of Real Madrid’s Fábio Coentrão. Tottenham are also taking a look at Napoli central defender Federico Fernández, who has been on loan at Getafe.

In Premier League talent drain news Borussia Dortmund and Bayer Leverkusen are to go toe-to-toe over Chelsea midfielder Kevin De Bruyne and Barcelona want Swansea’s Michel Vorm.

And in not-too-subtle-angling-for-a-move news, Senegal and Anderlecht defender Cheikhou Kouyaté says he’d be happy to join Arsenal.

Toulouse Midfielder Capoue Considers a Move to Paris Saint- Germain. | INFORMATION NIGERIA

Toulouse Midfielder Capoue Considers a Move to Paris Saint- Germain.

Posted by: Omaku Cephas on April 16, 2013

Etiene Capoue the Toulouse Midfielder.

Toulouse and France midfielder Etiene Capoue has told beIN Sport he hopes to seal a transfer to Paris Saint- Germain this summer.The 24- year- old has been closely monitored by English clubs including top names Arsenal and Everton in recent times, but admitted that a move to the French capital would be ‘a dream.’ He claimed that there had been contact between his agent Mino Raiola and PSG.“There was contact this winter with PSG and there still is today,” the midfielder told beIN Sport on Monday night. “I hope there will be plenty more contact between us. We are undoubtedly very close.”On the eventuality of a transfer abroad if the switch to the Parc des Princes falls through, Capoue has this to say: “I have no problem staying in France, but there are fewer competitive clubs than there are elsewhere in Europe.“I am a big PSG fan so to play for them would be a dream. I want to play in the Champions League, and whatever happens it will be a personal choice. For me, a top club is one that is playing in the Champions League.”Capoue has scored seven goals in 29 league games for Toulouse this season after making his international debut for Didier Deschamp’s first game in charge of Les Bleus against Uruguay last August.

Five NPFL Clubs Sign Shirt Branding Contract with Harp Lager. | INFORMATION NIGERIA

Five NPFL Clubs Sign Shirt Branding Contract with Harp Lager.

Posted by: Omaku Cephas on April 16, 2013

Five Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) clubs on Tuesday benefitted from the area of corporate sponsorship. Dolphin FC, Lobi Stars, Heartland, Enugu Rangers, and Sunshine Stars signed a shirt branding contract with Harp Premium Lager in Lagos.

Harp Premium Lager.

Harp Premium Lager is a one of the many brands of Guinness Nigeria Plc. The Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer, Guinness Nigeria Plc, Seni Adetu, said that the financial term of the contracts stays undisclosed.“The financial terms remain exclusive and at the clubs disposition to disclose. We’ve chosen these clubs because they are among the best and are the traditional clubs in the country,” Adetu said.The clubs representatives also spoke about the deals at the unveiling ceremony.“I’m proud of what Guinness have done here today. I’m happy that they’ve partnered with us not by popularity. It’s like I’m in Europe with this kind of event,” the vice chairman of Lobi Star, Dominic Iorfa said.“This is the first of its kind since I came back from the USA. This is good for the clubs as the sport cannot be backed by government alone,” said Ozor Paul Chibuzor, CEO of Enugu Rangers.“This is unique because most times corporate bodies only identifies with successful teams at the end of international competitions. But Guinness Harp has proven to be different. We are hopeful that after this contract, we will renew it next year,” Fan Ndubuoke, Heartland general manager said.“I am excited with this and I’m sure that our fans will be excited as I am. We will make sure Port Harcourt becomes home to your brand,” Dolphins general manager, Dumbo Awanen said.

Harp Lager T- Shirt.

3SC and Enyimba signed shirt branding deals with Dubic Lager last year.

Arsenal FC Held to a Goalless Draw by Everton. | INFORMATION NIGERIA

Arsenal FC Held to a Goalless Draw by Everton.

Posted by: Omaku Cephas on April 17, 2013

Arsenal vs. Everton

English team Arsenal’s prospects of securing a Champions League place was dealt a blow after a goalless draw with fellow European hopefuls Everton.The Londoners, who won four matches in a row to move up to third place and are chasing a qualification for the continent’s elite competition for the 16th straight season, had the better openings but French striker Olivier Giroud’s inability to finish up two rare opportunities complicated matters.The result means Arsenal have 60 points from 33 games followed by Chelsea on 58 points from 31 games, Tottenham Hotspur on 58 points from 32 games and Everton with 56 points from 33 games.Wednesday fixtures involve leaders Manchester United versus West Ham, Manchester City playing host to fellow FA Cup finalists Wigan Athletic and Londons Chelsea visiting Fulham.

Golden Eaglets Tackle Ivory Coast for FIFA Under- 17 World Cup Slot. | INFORMATION NIGERIA

Golden Eaglets Tackle Ivory Coast for FIFA Under- 17 World Cup Slot.

Posted by: Omaku Cephas on April 17, 2013

Nigeria Forward Isaac Success.

The Nigeria Under- 17 team will play the Young Elephants of Ivory Coast in the Matchday 2 fixture of the African Youth championship in Morocco. The Golden Eaglets, who trounced rivals Ghana 6- 1 in their opening match, are looking forward to qualifying for the semi final of the competition.The team will be aiming be at the FIFA Under- 17 World Cup in UAE alongside host Morocco and Tunisia who defeated Botswana and Gabon on Tuesday to proceed to the AYC semifinal.All eyes will be on the ever blazing striker, Success Isaac who helped himself to four goals against Ghana on Matchday 1.The young forward explained that successful strikers like the late Rashidi Yekini, Samuel Eto’o were crucial in his development as a striker.“Growing up my hero was Rashidi Yekini. His scoring abilities and determination to take Nigeria football to the highest level impressed me and I want to break his Nigeria senior team goal- scoring record and also take my country to the World Cup.“I have watched Yekini’s DVD and saw his great goals and that inspires me to do the same. I also admire Samuel Eto’o too, he is a great striker and I have always loved him wherever he plays and he proved at every club he played for that he can score goals and that for me is a striker.“I would like to be a striker like him in that respect and want to prove in this under- 17 tournament that I am a striker,” he told cafonline.com.Ivory Coast drew 1- 1with Congo in their first match. Anything short of a win would send the Elephants out of this years tournament.

Manchester City Host Relegation Threatened Wigan. | INFORMATION NIGERIA

Manchester City Host Relegation Threatened Wigan.

Posted by: Omaku Cephas on April 17, 2013

The last corresponding meeting between Manchester City and Wigan ended 3- 0 in favour of City who were playing at the Etihad stadium. A hat- trick from Sergio Aguero in front of the 46,509 fans helped the home team edge their opponent. The two clubs will have to get use to each other very soon as not only tonight’s fixture stands in-between them but another clash on May 11th, the later been the Final match of the FA Cup.Manchester City go into this fixture knowing the long expected title defense might have eluded them, however finishing the season as strong as possible can’t be toiled with as the defending champions currently trail the champions elect by15 points (with one outstanding match).“It’s about finishing the season as strong as we possibly can,” said David Platt, assistant manager Manchester City.Roberto Martinez’s men will have to be at their best if they must get out of the drop zone. Occupying the 18th place in the log does not justify the strength of a team that are in the FA Cup final for the first time. A win tonight would see them climb out of the relegation zone and also sound as a note of warning to the Manchester City fans ahead of the FA Cup final clash.

Wigan Manager, Roberto Martinez.

“We have proved it last season that when we are at our best we can compete against anyone,” Roberto Martinez, the Wigan Athletic manager reiterated.City are likely to be without their playmaker David Silva and fellow midfielder Jack Rodwell, both out due to a hamstring injury. Micah Richards and Maicon are both up for contention after a knee injury forced the two right- backs out of action. Roberto Mancini might be making some changes to the squad that defeated Chelsea at the weekend so as to give room for some fresh legs.Wigan last Premier League outing was the draw at QPR and they haven’t lost a game since the March 2nd home loss to Liverpool. Against bigger clubs, Wigan has not being at their best so far this season, meanwhile, this fixture serves as an opportunity to prove a point knowing that a loss will keep them among the bottom three. City’s impressive performance at Old Trafford and their FA Cup semifinal triumph over Chelsea means they come into this match upbeat and motivated.Referee Anthony Taylor will be at the centre of the proceedings tonight, kick off time 08:45 (GMT +1).