Sports
[OPINION] Senegal’s February Juju Hits Soccer Gold
One football concept that has continued to elicit confusion and debate is this: is there juju in football? Put differently, does juju work in football?
To comprehensively disect this discourse, I travelled from Lagos to Ibadan to have a chat with one of Africa’s most recognizable faces in football, particularly in coaching, Adegboye Onigbinde. I put the question to him: Is there juju in football? Onigbinde retorted in an emphatic yes. He gave examples but added that “juju does not take you far. What sees you through is your understanding of your opponent and then the ability of a coach to select the players who can interpret his match plan well”. He added, no matter the measure of drugs a non athlete took, it could only have taken a Ben Johnson to beat him”.
Two other former Nigerian players, Taribo West and Emeka Ezeugo equally confirmed in two separate interviews that there was juju in football. In fact, Taribo revealed how he used to travel to Mali and Senegal for football juju.
Indeed, Senegalese authorities never practically understood the working of February hence they agreed with CAF to stage the 1992 Nations Cup Finals in January. Had that Competition be held in February, the story would have been different.
Take a close look at this. Senegal almost caused a soccer sensation on February 7, 2000 in the Nations Cup cohosted by Ghana and Nigeria. It was a quarter final encounter and the National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos, was the theatre of hostility. The more than 60, 000 Nigerian cheering fans were roundly awed when Khalilou Fadiga got the curtain raiser in the seventh minute. It was unthinkable.
There was pin -drop – silence in the stadium. The goal was scored by Fadiga on the seventh minute on February 7! Senegal fought like lions as they are called and held tenaciously to the lead till the 80th minute when substitute Julius Aghaghowa levelled for Nigeria. The game was dragged into extra time and it was still Aghoghowa who gave Nigeria victory. Senegal lost but registered her February wonder with a roar.
Meanwhile the game produced a hilarious but hypertensive drama. A Nigerian coach who also was an NFF and CAF member, Kashimao Laloko shouted over and again from his VIP stand, pointing that there was a juju in form of an egg right behind the Senegalese goalkeeper. When nobody cared to listen to him, Laloko broke protocol, went straight to the Senegal’s goal area and picked what looked like an egg. Minutes later, Aghaghowa got the leveller.
Few days later, I chased Laloko to his Pepsi Academy base at Agege Stadium. I asked him he had to go to field during play – an action abhorrent to football rules? He said: “I saw something and I did something. What I did saved my country. I have no question to answer”. CAF suspended Laloko but later lifted it.
Exactly two years after, in Mali 2002, Nigeria again faced Senegal in a Nations Cup semi final pairing on February 7! Just like the Lagos duel two years earlier, Senegal went up in Bamako through Papa Bouba Diop. Since their seventh minute lead in Lagos never produced any good result, Senegal changed style, played a barren first half draw and later moved on in the ninth minute of the second half (54th minute) for their goal. Seconds flew. Minutes passed. Just two minutes to go, Aghoghowa again, equalized. It was extra time and Senegal had the winner through Salif Diao. Nigeria had a penalty after Nwankwo Kanu was hacked down but Wilson Oruma who was coming from the bench hit the up right and Super Eagles lost 1- 2 to Senegal.
For the first time in their history, Senegal made it to the final of the African Nations Cup. It was a big achievement. They lost to Cameroon.
Senegal qualified for the Nations Cup final for the second time in Egypt and lost to Algeria. That game was played in July 2019, not February.
And this year, the final of the 2021 Nations Cup played in Cameroon in 2022 was played on February 6, a Sunday. Senegal truly masters the magic of February championships. Not surprisingly, Senegal inspired by Sadio Mane, struck African soccer gold.
If you consider that Senegal avenged her February 7, 2000 defeat by Nigeria also on February 7, 2002 in Mali., and now emerged the new African champions in Cameroon that denied her victory in 2002 on February 6, 2022 just as she punished Egypt on whose land she lost the diadem two years ago on same date, then you will appreciate the country’s bound with February. It is the same way Nigeria hardly loses on October 8!
By Ori Martins
Sports
Mbah Receives EPL Trophy, Seeks Guinness’ Partnership to Grow Sports in Enugu
…Why we choose Enugu- Guinness, reports SANDRA ANI
The Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, has expressed his eagerness to partner with Guinness Nigeria PLC to accelerate his administration’s sports development effort, describing the state as the home of sporting legends, who have ruled the world of sports as well as home of abundant talents for the future.
Mbah spoke when a team of Guinness Nigeria’s management showcased the English Premier League, EPL, trophy, to him at Government House, Enugu, on Friday.
It is recalled that Guinness Nigeria and the Premier League partnered to bring the iconic silverware for display in Enugu on Friday, May 16 and in Lagos on Saturday May 17 and Sunday, 18 to give EPL’s teeming fans in Nigeria the rare opportunity to experience the trophy.
Speaking during the presentation of the trophy at the Lion Building, Enugu State Government House, Mbah noted that beside putting in place legislative frameworks for sports development, his administration was also embarking on a massive reconstruction of the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium and Awgu Games Village preparatory to hosting the 2026 edition of the National Sports Festival.
“Like Guinness, we regard sports as a positive force in Enugu. We are not surprised that the Guinness flagship event is being held here in Enugu. Just like Guinness, we also see sports as a platform to foster social cohesion. We are not just paying lip service to sports; we actually have our skin in the game.
“We believe that the EPL is quite a spectacle with audiences across the world and you couldn’t have chosen a better city for the flagship event than Enugu.
“Again, since here is the home of Rangers and since we have also recognised that this is where it all happens, let us begin to think about more collaboration with Guinness to see how we can secure endorsement with the Guinness corporate brand. This should be on the table because Rangers also won the 2023/2024 Nigerian Premier League title.
“We are just about giving the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium and Awgu Games Village a new lease of life, making sure they meet FIFA and World Athletics standards ahead of the National Sports Festival. So, we look forward to more strategic collaboration with Guinness. We are quite a business-friendly state,” he stated.
Earlier, the leader of the delegation and the Corporate Relations Director at Guinness Nigeria PLC, Rotimi Odusola, described Enugu State as the spiritual home of sports in Nigeria, noting the exploits of Rangers.
He said it was only natural to choose Enugu for the display of the EPL silverware, given its history and the great job Governor Mbah had done in repositioning the state.
“Some may wonder why Enugu. There is a reason for us to choose Enugu as the first place in Nigeria since this trophy arrived yesterday. It is because we know that Enugu State is the spiritual home of football in Nigeria. As a young football lover, I can’t forget all of the stories around Enugu Rangers football team.
“I want to also appreciate you for the work you are doing. The last time I was in Enugu was in 2022 and I have seen remarkable improvements in Enugu State since my last visit.
“This presentation of the EPL trophy is an opportunity for us to reinforce Guinness Nigeria being a business that has been intricate in the fabric of Nigeria for 75 years. We also want to use this opportunity to create magical moments for our consumers and members of the public through the collaboration between Guinness globally and the English Premier League,” he added.
The event was witnessed by the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Enugu State, Barr. Lloyd Ekweremadu; Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dame Ugochi Madueke; Director, Marketing and Innovations, Guinness Nigeria, Yinka Bakare; Director, Corporate Relations, Guinness Nigeria, Rotimi Odusola; Head of Marketing, Guinness Nigeria, Ramanathan Sollayepan; Head of Division, South-East Region, Guinness Nigeria, Adesoji Opeyemi; General Manager, Rangers International Football Club of Enugu, Barr. Amobi Ezeaku; and the Chairman, Enugu State Football Association, Barr. Tony Ugwu, among others.
MTN Nigeria, the official sponsor of the English Premier League (EPL) on SuperSport, successfully hosted an electrifying Manchester Derby watch party at Bay Lounge, Lekki, on April 6, 2025. Football fans gathered for a superb night of live-action football, engaging discussions, and exciting giveaways.
Building on the success of its previous Arsenal vs. Manchester United watch party, MTN Nigeria once again provided a premium viewing experience that brought fans together to celebrate their shared passion for football.
These fans enjoyed their match on a big screen among other football lovers. The Derby ended in a tense goalless draw that, while lacking in goals, was full of drama.
Fans erupted at every near-miss, debated tactical battles, and rode the emotional rollercoaster of a match that left City’s Champions League hopes hanging and reflected Manchester United’s season frustrations.
Looking ahead, this draw presents an opportunity for Newcastle United, as they could overtake City for fifth place if they secure a victory against Leicester City, who are battling relegation, on Monday; highlighting the competitive nature of the league and the dynamic possibilities for all teams involved.
Nwadinma Gregory, one lucky attendee who walked away with an MTN broadband MiFi, said “The energy at the MTN Nigeria watch party was absolutely incredible! Watching the Manchester Derby with fellow fans, experiencing every goal, every near miss and every thrilling moment together made it unforgettable. MTN really knows how to bring football lovers together for an amazing experience!”
One of the biggest talking points was Kevin De Bruyne, who recently announced this would be his final season at Manchester City.
Fans took the opportunity to reflect on his remarkable legacy. Mickhael Ehi, an attendee, shared his thoughts on De Bruyne’s impact and contribution to the team, highlighting the significance of his career at the club: “Seeing De Bruyne in what might be his last Manchester Derby was bittersweet. He’s been a Premier League legend: the assists, the vision, the leadership. Even if he wasn’t at his peak today, you could feel the respect from the crowd. Players like him don’t come around often.”
Lakinbofa Goodluck, MTN Nigeria’s PR Manager, highlighted the brand’s dedication to enhancing football experiences:
“At MTN Nigeria, we are committed to enriching the experiences of our customers and football lovers. The Premier League is more than just football; it’s about community, passion, and unforgettable moments, and we are proud to bring that to our fans.”
With the EPL season still in full swing, MTN Nigeria will continue to create unique engagement opportunities for fans, ensuring they stay connected to the game they love.
…reaffirms MTN Nigeria’s support following ‘draw’ with Zimbabwe.
MTN Nigeria, the official telecommunications partner of the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF), has reiterated its unwavering support for the Super Eagles following their spirited draw with Zimbabwe in the World Cup qualifier match at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, Akwa Ibom.
Building on the momentum from their recent victory against Rwanda, MTN Nigeria had expressed strong backing for the national team ahead of the crucial fixture. Tobe Okigbo, MTN Nigeria’s Chief Corporate Services & Sustainability Officer, stated before the game, “We are confident in the team’s ability to make Nigeria proud and qualify for the World Cup.”
Despite the draw, MTN Nigeria’s CEO, Karl Toriola, maintained a positive outlook. “While tonight’s outcome wasn’t what we hoped for, we remain steadfast in our support for the Super Eagles. This result is just part of the journey towards World Cup qualification, and we believe in the team’s resilience and ability to succeed,” Toriola said.
The match showcased the Super Eagles’ grit and determination as they found their rhythm against the Zimbabwean side. Nigeria scored the first goal, demonstrating their prowess and fighting spirit, although the match ultimately ended in a draw. This result has added to the excitement of Nigeria’s path to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
MTN Nigeria, which signed a deal with the NFF in 2021 as the Official Telecoms Partner, has been a constant pillar of support for Nigerian football for over two decades. The company’s commitment extends from grassroots to national levels, investing significantly in the development of local football.
“Our support for the Super Eagles and all national teams is part of our long-standing tradition,” Toriola added. “We are building a sustainable legacy of collaboration, growth, and development in the football space. Tonight’s result doesn’t change our belief in the team’s potential to make all Nigerians proud on the global stage. We believe in our Eagles.”
As the Super Eagles regroup and prepare for their next qualifier, MTN Nigeria has called on all Nigerians to rally behind the team. The company emphasized that this is a crucial time for unity and continued support, expressing confidence that the Super Eagles will overcome this challenge and strive towards securing a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
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