Bayer Leverkusen striker Victor Boniface has expressed his readiness to fill in for the injured Victor Osimhen in Nigeria’s upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Libya.

With Osimhen sidelined, Boniface is expected to lead the attack for the Super Eagles. Despite this, the 23-year-old insists he feels no pressure taking on the goal-scoring responsibility. “It’s not just about me. We have Kelechi, Awoniyi, and myself. Whoever plays will aim for the win,” Boniface told Football Fans Tribe. He emphasized that team success is his priority, stating, “As long as we’re winning, I have no issue, even if I’m not scoring.”

The Ogun State Government is renovating the MKO Abiola International Stadium and Alake Sports Centre in Abeokuta for the 2024 Gateway Games, scheduled for January 12-26, 2025.

Commissioner for Sports Development, Wasiu Isiaka, inspected the facilities and confirmed that the upgrades will be completed on time. The renovation includes removing the stadium’s pitch, tartan tracks, and indoor hall roofs. The project will also expand the VIP section and add an Olympic-sized swimming pool, tennis courts, and handball courts. Isiaka highlighted the state’s focus on developing local athletes and its readiness to host the event.

Chelsea midfielder, Cole Palmer, has been crowned the England Men’s Player of the Year for the 2023-24 season, an honor that recognizes his remarkable rise in both club and international football.

The award, officially announced by the English Football Association on Tuesday, highlights Palmer’s impressive achievements over the past year, particularly his contributions to England’s national team.

Palmer secured this prestigious title ahead of two major football stars, Real Madrid’s Jude Bellingham and Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka, who placed second and third, respectively.

Both players had outstanding seasons, with Bellingham making waves in La Liga and Saka continuing to shine in the Premier League, but Palmer’s impact on the national stage proved to be a decisive factor in his victory.

The 22-year-old midfielder made his senior debut for the Three Lions in November 2023 and has since made a notable impression.

Although he didn’t start in most matches, Palmer’s ability to influence games off the bench made him one of England’s standout performers in Euro 2024.

During the final against Spain, despite the team’s 2-1 loss, Palmer scored his first international goal, showcasing his composure in high-pressure moments.

In the semi-final clash against the Netherlands, Palmer was pivotal once again, delivering a crucial assist for Ollie Watkins, whose goal secured England’s place in the final.

At the club level, Palmer has been equally outstanding. His performances for Chelsea during the 2023-24 Premier League season were nothing short of spectacular.

Palmer netted 22 goals in the league, cementing himself as a key player for the Blues.

His fine form has carried into the current season, where he has already scored six goals in seven matches, proving that his consistency on the field is no fluke.

Palmer’s ability to perform on both domestic and international stages has made him one of the most talked-about young talents in English football.

His success reflects not only his skill and work ethic but also his versatility, as he continues to deliver in various roles for Chelsea and England.

Many football fans and pundits alike believe that Palmer’s star is only beginning to rise, and he could become a cornerstone of both his club and national teams in the years to come.