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Siasia Sues FIFA Over Ban, Demands Refund Of $54k Fine

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Samson Siasia, a former Super Eagles player and coach, has sued FIFA over the federation’s earlier decision to hand him a life ban from all football-related activities.

In 2019, FIFA had found Siasia “guilty of having accepted that he would receive bribes in relation to the manipulation of matches”.

The world football governing body had said the offense violated its code of ethics while the ban was also accompanied by a 50,000 Swiss francs ($54,000) fine.

On June 21, the sanction was however reduced to a five-year ban at the Court of Arbitration for Sports (CAS).

The court had also ruled that the life ban handed to the Nigerian was “disproportionate” to the offense he was said to have committed.

But in a dramatic twist, Siasia filed a suit at a federal court in New York on Monday, challenging his initial conviction by FIFA.

In the suit filed through Nitor V. Egbarin, his counsel, the coach, who is also a US citizen, claimed his conviction by FIFA was a breach of his constitutional rights.

The football gaffer also contended that the federation lacked the powers to sanction him, adding that only the United States has the legal backing to charge him for the bribery offense.

Buttressing his point in the suit, Siasia argued that FIFA had relied on the Swiss bribery law to effect his conviction, adding that “Georgia does not criminalize commercial bribery.”

“In convicting Siasia of bribery, FIFA relied on Swiss bribery law. If any crime was committed, only the FBI or Georgia State Police could investigate and bring charges of commercial bribery,” the suit partly read.

Siasia also claimed that FIFA did not follow due process in its investigation into the allegations against him before his eventual conviction for bribery.

“Siasia was not aware of the bribery charge for which that FIFA indicted him until FIFA published to the whole world in or around Aug. 16, 2019, FIFA’s conviction and imposition of a life ban on Siasia from using the coach license issued under the laws of the United States,” the suit added.

He said that FIFA’s fine and the decision to revoke his license constituted “cruel and unusual punishment” which, he claimed, “violated provisions of the eighth amendment of the US law.”

In the suit, Siasia demanded among others, the overturning of his earlier conviction, a refund of the 50,000 Swiss francs ($54,000) fine handed to him, and a reversal of his five-year coaching ban.

The former Nigerian international also demanded that FIFA pays him damages for allegedly violating his civil rights and bringing his reputation into disrepute.

BIG STORY

As WAFCON Kicks Off Today, The Falcons Of Nigeria Will Win Their 10th Title — By Seun Oloketuyi

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The energy in Morocco is electric. From the bustling streets of Rabat to the buzzing stadium corridors in Casablanca, a continental celebration of football has begun. The 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, delayed until 2025, kicks off today — and as the anthem rings out to open the tournament, one team walks into the spotlight with more than just ambition. The Super Falcons of Nigeria are here to reclaim what they’ve long considered theirs: the WAFCON crown.

Nine-time champions, decorated with decades of dominance, Nigeria’s women’s team has been the pride of African football. But this time, there’s something different. It’s not just about titles or rankings. It’s about redemption. Two years ago, the Falcons fell short, narrowly edged out of the final by host nation Morocco and forced to watch South Africa take the throne. That sting hasn’t faded — it’s fuel.

The players know what’s at stake. Asisat Oshoala, now playing for Bay FC in the U.S. after an illustrious run with Barcelona, returns with fire in her eyes and form in her boots. Alongside her, a younger generation is rising — bold, unshaken, hungry. In training, the tempo has been sharp. In their voices, confidence. In their hearts, belief,She is expected to inspire the younger generation lead by the team Captain Rasheedat and the new blood of Alozie,Ashley,Esther and Toni Payne plus Ayinde a lot is expected.

Now led by new head coach Justine Madugu, following the departure of Randy Waldrum, the Falcons are embracing a refreshed style of play — blending tactical discipline with expressive, fearless attacking football. Madugu has not only brought structure but also instilled belief, trust, and a renewed fighting spirit,Many including me are still stunned Monday Gift is not in this team but yet we are behind them.

The road won’t be easy. Morocco is loud and proud on home soil. South Africa still glows from their 2022 triumph. Zambia arrives with momentum. But even in the shadows of rising stars, Nigeria still stands tallest. When the Super Falcons walk out tomorrow against Tunisia for their opening match, they’ll carry more than just jerseys on their backs. They’ll carry history. Legacy. And expectation.

This is a team that has shaped the narrative of African women’s football for decades. Their dominance isn’t luck. It’s culture. Discipline. Passion. Every touch of the ball, every sprint, every tackle will be driven by the memory of past glories — and the desire to write a new chapter.

As the tournament kicks off today, the message from Nigeria is clear: the Falcons are flying again. Not with arrogance, but with assurance. And by the time the final whistle blows in Rabat on July 26, they believe they’ll be right where they belong — lifting the trophy for a record 10th time.

Africa is watching. Nigeria is ready.

I Totally believe Falcons will come home with the 10th Wafcon

  • Seun Oloketuyi the producer of Flying with the Falcons

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BIG STORY

JUST IN: Super Eagles Legendary Goalkeeper Peter Rufai Dies At 60

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The Super Eagles have honoured former Nigerian goalkeeper and 1994 Africa Cup of Nations winner, Peter Rufai, following reports of his passing.

In a statement posted on Thursday via X, the national team referred to Rufai, popularly called “Dodo Mayana,” as an iconic figure in Nigerian football whose impact will always be remembered.

“Forever in our hearts, Dodo Mayana. We mourn the passing of legendary Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai, a giant of Nigerian football and a 1994 AFCON champion,” the statement said.

The statement praised Rufai’s outstanding career, highlighting his remarkable performances and influence beyond football.

“Your legacy lives on between the sticks and beyond. Rest well, Peter Rufai,” it added.

Rufai was a key member of the celebrated Nigerian team that won the 1994 AFCON and qualified for the country’s first-ever FIFA World Cup in the same year.

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BIG STORY

BREAKING: Liverpool Star Diogo Jota Dies In Car Crash At 28

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Liverpool and Portugal forward Diogo Jota has passed away at the age of 28 after a fatal road accident in Spain.

The accident took place on the A-52 motorway, at kilometre 65, close to the municipality of Palacios de Sanabria in Zamora province.

Born in 1996, Jota was an important player for both Liverpool FC and the Portuguese national team. News of his sudden death has caused shock and grief across the football community and beyond.

Spanish sports newspaper MARCA reported the crash on Thursday, confirming that Jota died at the scene.

“Liverpool footballer Diogo Jota dies in a traffic accident in the province of Zamora,” the publication stated in a short report, expressing sorrow over the loss of the talented footballer.

Jota was known for his determination, sharp goal-scoring ability, and flexibility on the field.

As of the time of this report, additional information about the crash and funeral plans has not been released.

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