🏆 9jazic Sports: Eagles Soar, Stars Rise, and Naija’s Passion Shines – May 14, 2025
📅 Date: Wednesday, May 14, 2025
⏱️ Last Updated: 11:55 AM (WAT)
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🇳🇬 Flying Eagles Seal World Cup Ticket in Nerve-Wracking Shootout
Nigeria’s U-20 men’s national team, the Flying Eagles, delivered a heroic performance in the quarterfinals of the CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations, defeating defending champions Senegal 3–1 on penalties after a 0–0 draw in regulation.
The game was a tense battle of tactics and resilience, with both sides creating chances but unable to break the deadlock. It was goalkeeper Ebenezer Harcourt who became the national hero, saving two crucial penalties and securing Nigeria’s passage to the semifinals. With this victory, Nigeria not only moves closer to lifting the continental title but has also officially qualified for the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile.
The Flying Eagles now face South Africa in the semifinal clash on Thursday, May 15, and fans are eagerly anticipating another standout performance.
🎯 Did you know? Nigeria is now unbeaten in *all U-20 AFCON quarterfinals since 2005.
💔 Taiwo Awoniyi’s Brave Battle: In Coma but Fighting Strong
Nigerian striker Taiwo Awoniyi remains in an induced coma after undergoing emergency abdominal surgery, following a traumatic injury during a Premier League clash between Nottingham Forest and Leicester City. The forward reportedly crashed into the goalpost in the second half and collapsed minutes later.
According to medical sources and Forest club officials, the coma was medically induced to help Awoniyi recover smoothly from the surgery. As of this morning, reports indicate he is showing signs of progress, but doctors continue to monitor him closely.
The Nigerian Sports Commission (NSC) and thousands of fans have poured in prayers and solidarity across social media, trending hashtags like #PrayForAwoniyi and #StrongTaiwo.
🗣️ NSC statement: “Taiwo is a fighter. We’re confident in his recovery. Nigeria is behind him.”
🏟️ Gateway 2025 National Sports Festival: Unity, Glory & Talent on Display
Ogun State will play host to the 22nd edition of the National Sports Festival, branded as “Gateway 2025,” scheduled to run from May 16 to May 30. This nationwide event is often dubbed the ‘Nigerian Olympics’, and it offers a platform for discovering and nurturing local talents across various sporting disciplines.
More than 10,000 athletes from all 36 states and the FCT are expected to participate, competing in over 30 sports including athletics, boxing, basketball, swimming, wrestling, and traditional sports like Dambe and Ayo.
The state government has promised world-class facilities and security to ensure the event runs smoothly. For 9jazic readers and sports lovers, this is a festival worth tracking—some of Nigeria’s greatest sports legends, like Chioma Ajunwa and Blessing Okagbare, were discovered at this very event.
⚽ Remo Stars Crowned NPFL Champions in Historic Win
Remo Stars have made history by clinching their first-ever Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) title, finishing the season with 68 points from 36 matches. Their rise to the top is a testament to solid club management, tactical brilliance, and youth development.
This triumph also marks the first time since 2000 that a club from Nigeria’s South-West has lifted the trophy, ending the dominance of clubs from the North and South-East. Remo’s high-flying form was powered by striker Sikiru Alimi, who ended the season with 14 goals.
The club will now fly Nigeria’s flag in the CAF Champions League next season, alongside Rivers United, who secured second place.
🎉 9jazic Shoutout: Remo Stars’ success is proof that local clubs can build legacies with proper investment and grassroots support.
🌍 Visa Scandal: Chinese Embassy Apologizes to Nigerian Athletes
In a diplomatic twist, the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria has formally apologized for denying visas to several Nigerian athletes who were scheduled to compete in the 2025 World Athletics Relays.
The incident caused a national stir last week after the athletes were stranded and missed the event. In a statement, the embassy blamed a “technical processing error” and described the outcome as “unfortunate and accidental.”
The affected athletes have received apologies from both the Chinese consulate and World Athletics, with discussions underway to prevent a recurrence in future competitions.
✊ Athletes deserve better. Visa challenges continue to hinder African participation in global sports events.
🏀 NBA Playoffs: Thunder & Pacers Take Big Steps Forward
Western Conference Semifinals:
- Oklahoma City Thunder 112–105 Denver Nuggets
– Shai Gilgeous-Alexander exploded for 31 points, leading the Thunder to a 3–2 series lead and energizing their title hopes.
Eastern Conference Semifinals:
- Indiana Pacers 114–105 Cleveland Cavaliers
– The Pacers bounced back strong, fueled by a dominant third-quarter run, putting them ahead 4–1 in the series.
NBA fans are buzzing with playoff fever, and Naija fans are keeping an eye on African talents rising in the league.
⚽ La Liga Showdowns: Girona & Celta Edge Out Rivals
- Celta Vigo 1–0 Real Sociedad
– Celta’s gritty win against Sociedad tightened the battle for mid-table survival, with local fans celebrating a hard-fought three points. - Girona 1–0 Real Valladolid
– Girona continued their solid home form with a late winner, pushing Valladolid closer to the relegation zone.
⚽ Championship Playoff Thriller: Sunderland Book Wembley Final
Sunderland advanced to the EFL Championship playoff final after a gripping two-legged tie against Coventry City. Last night’s game ended 1–1, but Sunderland’s earlier 2–1 win saw them progress with a 3–2 aggregate victory.
A dramatic 123rd-minute header by Daniel Ballard sent the Stadium of Light into a frenzy and booked their place at Wembley, where they will face Sheffield United for a coveted spot in next season’s Premier League.
🕒 Verification & Timestamp
- Date Verified: Wednesday, May 14, 2025
- Compiled & Reviewed by 9jazic Sports Team
- Time of Post: 11:55 AM (WAT)
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