🇳🇬NigeriaWest Africa
Nigeria's 1998 World Cup record for lowest-ranked team to advance from group stage remains unbroken
via Punch Nigeria2 min read
Nigeria's 1998 FIFA World Cup record for the lowest-ranked nation to advance from the group stage in the modern FIFA ranking era has been maintained, despite Cape Verde's recent performance. Cape Verde, ranked 64th, reached the Round of 32 in their first World Cup appearance, securing three draws in Group H against Spain, Uruguay, and Saudi Arabia. This made them the third-lowest ranked nation to reach the knockout rounds since FIFA introduced its ranking system in 1994. However, Nigeria, ranked 74th in the 1998 World Cup, not only qualified from their group but topped Group D, defeating Spain 3-2 and finishing ahead of Paraguay and Bulgaria. Nigeria's ranking at the time was influenced by a two-year suspension from the Confederation of African Football. In other World Cup news, the Round of 32 begins with South Africa playing Canada at SoFi Stadium. South Africa, the first South African side to reach the knockout rounds of a World Cup, finished second in Group A with four points. Canada also finished second with four points in their group. The winner of this match will face either the Netherlands or Morocco in the Round of 16.
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Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen caused a near stampede in Ojota, Lagos, as videos of his visit spread online, attracting a large crowd of fans. Supporters surrounded his car, preventing it from moving, and Osimhen had to exit his Lamborghini to calm them. The scenes highlighted the strong support Nigerians have for the footballer. Osimhen, 27, is currently the subject of transfer speculation, with several European clubs reportedly interested. Galatasaray, his current club, has stated they have no intention of selling him this summer and has set a minimum asking price of €150m, having rejected a €120m offer from an unnamed club. Galatasaray president Dursun Ozbek confirmed the club would only sanction a sale if their valuation is met and Osimhen wishes to leave.
The seventh edition of the Tour D'Afrique, a cross-border cycling expedition, has concluded successfully in Lagos, Nigeria. A 30-person contingent, including 20 professional cyclists, completed a 1,110km journey across four West African countries: Nigeria, Benin Republic, Togo, and Ghana. The seven-day ride, themed "Ride Against Climate Change," saw its final stage cover 145km from Cotonou, Benin Republic, to Lagos. The returning group was welcomed by Lagos State's incoming Deputy Governor, Princess Damilola Sonayan James. Participants highlighted Benin Republic for its public support and police escort. The organizing committee acknowledged the physical demands on the 20 professionals who completed the ride. The tour received support from Pocari Sweat, ibis Styles Hotels, and the ECOWAS Commission, and was an initiative of FT Cycle Care in partnership with the Cycling Federation of Nigeria and the Velo NG Community.
South Africa's national football team, Bafana Bafana, will face Canada in the 2026 World Cup round of 32 without midfielder Themba Zwane. FIFA rejected the South Africa Football Association's appeal against his three-match suspension, which was issued after a red card in their opening match against Mexico. SAFA expressed disappointment, stating they believe the punishment is disproportionate. Zwane will serve the final match of his ban during the Canada fixture. However, midfielder Teboho Mokoena returns after serving his own suspension, providing a boost to the team. Coach Hugo Broos highlighted the strong bond he shares with his players as a key factor in their success. South Africa's advancement to the knockout rounds is historic, as they had not progressed beyond the group stage in previous World Cup appearances. A victory against Canada would further cement their place in the country's football history. Canada, who also advanced with four points from Group B, are considered favorites for the match in Los Angeles. This game also marks the first time a World Cup co-host will play a match outside its own borders.