Sportscout

By Balikis Hamzat

Ahmed Ibrahim, who plays as a defensive midfielder (DMF) talks about his motivation to become a footballer.

He stated that nothing specifically motivated him; he just simply loves playing the football game, which is why he dedicates all his time to it.

He also shared how football has positively impacted his life by allowing him to meet many people and build numerous connections. He noted that he has compete at both local and international levels.

Ibrahim identified his strength in football as his ability to play well, driven by his passion for the sport. However, he mentioned that his weakness arises when the team faces challenges in overcoming their opponents.

When asked about his greatest achievement in football, he highlighted playing alongside foreign players in Egypt, an experience that will always remain in his memory.

He talks about the difficulties of analyzing an opponent’s defense, emphasizing that being a coach is not an easy task. Some of the teams he has played for, including Sunshine Football Team and TB Joshua Team in Akure, Super 11 Team in Ibadan, and currently, he plays for Lens Polytechnic School Team in Offa, where he serves as the captain and is considered one of the team’s strongest pillars.

Ibrahim talked about the ups and downs of being a player, noting how frustrating it can be when facing an opponent team that they are eager to defeat.
He also emphasized the importance of peaceful communication with his teammates during challenging moments, stating that the key to keeping the team united is love and harmony.

By Balikis Hamzat

Idowu Micheal Oluwatobiloba, who plays for the Lens Polytechnic school team, was interviewed about his motivation to become a footballer. He expressed that football is his passion and sees it as a pathway to a better future, as it offers him opportunities to travel around the world.

When asked about how football has positively impacted his life,Oluwatobiloba shared that it keeps him engaged and away from negative habits like smoking and drinking, as he focuses his energy on the field.

He mentioned his challenges, such as the inability to afford football kits like soccer boots and the transport fare to training sessions. However, he also noted that one of his strengths is the recognition he receives from fans who were previously unaware of him. He discussed the difficulties he faces at home, particularly from his parents, who are concerned about him pursuing football instead of more traditional, stable jobs.

Regarding his greatest achievement in football, he highlighted his opportunities to travel to South Africa and Qatar through the sport. Looking ahead, he believes that within the next 5 to 10 years, he could be part of an international squad in Europe, possibly playing for a team like Chelsea.

Oluwatobiloba also mentioned his leadership role, having led his school team to victory against other teams, which is one of his proudest accomplishments in football.

By Hezekiah Ojo

The Lens Polytechnic Offa has commenced its 2024 end-of-the-year party with sport events.

Lens Polytechnic Offa, located in Kwara State which organized a vibrant End-of-Year Sports Day at the ZEEMS Sport Arena on December 18, 2024 was a testament to the institution’s commitment to fostering teamwork and companionship among its staff members.

The day’s activities began with womens’ football match, which ended with a narrow victory of 1-0.

Following this, the management and staff also kick off, demonstrating their competitive spirit and teamwork.

Dr. Yisa Azeez actively participated in the sports festivities, took on the role of goalkeeper for the management team. His match against the staff concluded in a stalemate, with a score of 0-0.

Additionally, a friendly match was held between the Polytechnic team and the staffers further enhancing the spirit of unity.

In addition to this, other sports were enjoyed at the fun-filled day. The highlight was the table tennis match between Mr. Ojo Adeolu and Mr. Lukman Alani, where Mr. Lukman emerged victorious.

The event also featured Snooker, Ludo game, WOT game, with staff members showcasing their skills, reinforcing the idea that “the pain you feel today will be the strength you feel tomorrow.”

The End-of-Year Sports Day at Lens Polytechnic Offa not only provided an opportunity for physical activity but also celebrated the capabilities of the staff, representing the notion that “exercise is a celebration of what your body can do, not a punishment for what you ate.”

The event was a resounding success, leaving participants with cherished memories and a strengthened sense of community.

Notable attendees included the proprietor of the Polytechnic; Dr. Yisa Azeez, alongside key figures, Mr. Hammed (Registrar), Mr. Femi, Mr. Abdulakeem, Mr. Nafif, Mr. Banuso, and many others.

By Hamzat Balikis

Barcelona and Real Betis produced yet another remarkable spectacle as the two sides battled to a wild 2-2 draw at the Benito Villamarín today in one of the best games of the La Liga season so far.

Barça dominated the first half, Betis dominated the second half, and each team scored a dramatic late goal to share the points and continue their history of playing nothing but incredibly entertaining games.

The first two minutes of the game were absolutely terrifying for Barça as Betis launched an early blitz looking to catch the visitors off guard, and it almost worked twice as the hosts created two monster chances to take the lead.

Betis did a good job blocking passing lanes through the middle and forced Barça to play plenty of sideways and backward balls, but Hansi Flick’s side kept their composure and didn’t get desperate.

In 3 minutes to end the match, BETIS has a brilliant chance and make use of it to draw the match, and Barcelona drop points.

By Hamzat Balikis

Manchester city at Salhurst Park today, facing Crystal palace at their home.

It is a draw (1-1) in the half time of the game, an early goal from Crystal palace player D Munoz at 4 minutes of the game.

Manchester city strives and struggles to equalise the game, In the 31 minute of the match Erling Haaland (goal machine) as called by the fans get an assist from M. Nunez and head it at the back of the net and make it (1-1) in the half time of the game.

At the second half game, W. Hughes have another assist with the set piece and M. Lacroix heads it at the back of the net in 57 minutes of the game, while R. Lewis equalised again to make it 2-2.

Gardiola again escape a loose at Salhurst park and draw 2 points in the premier league counting points.

It’s an interesting and well performed match from both teams, and the crystal palace with the high spirits to win the match after Lewis (Manchester city player) received a red card on the pitch.

By Balikis Hamzat

Chelsea defeated Southampton at their home with 5 goals to 1, it was an interesting match for Chelsea.

Chelsea with much of potential in the game makes them secure another three points to day and reach second in the premier league table.

Disasi, Nkuku, Madueke, Palmer and Sancho crowns it to make 5 goals for Chelsea.

It’s a well deserved match for them (Chelsea), and the Chelsea coach Enzo Maresca is really doing great job in the team.

It is a first goal for Jodan Sancho in Chelsea since he joined the team, a well assist from Malo Gusto and brilliant finish from Sancho in 87 minutes of the match.

By Balikis Hamzat

Manchester United at Emirates stadium today cost them 2-0 today.

The North London team(Arsenal) played and dominated the peach from Manchester United, it was a tough game at the start match.

But Arsenal are in the best form to defeat Manchester United today, Arsenal manager ( Mikel Arteta) really has the quality players to defeat Manchester United.

It was a draw (0-0) in half
time of the game,
J.Timber at 54 minutes of the game head the ball to the back of the net and assist from Declan Rice from the corner kick.

At the 73 minute of the match, another corner for Arsenal, Declan Rice took the corner but was headed by Thomas Partey and scored by Saliba.

Manchester United has no corner kick record of the game today while Arsenal with 13 corners kick today.

Roben Amorin (Manchester United head coach), still need to do alot in the team, and Onana (Manchester United goalkeeper) with 4 saves today and Raya ( Arsenal goalkeeper) with 2 saves.

By Hamzat Balikis

Guehi wrote over the Rainbow armband he wore for Palace’s draw against Newcastle on Saturday. As the FA opened him up for potential charges.

Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi, could face charges after he wrote “I love Jesus” on his rainbow captain’s harm band.

Marc Guehi, he is one of the key players in the crystal palace team in the premier league.

He plays as center back for the team and left foot, his national team is England, he has been a wonderful player for the team.

Marc Guehi has featured in so many games in Europe.

But, recently he wrote words on his captain harms band (I love Jesus), if we all know premier leagues have been one of the leagues in Europe that have lots of rules and regulations for each team to abide by and also the players, either on the pitch or off the pitch.

By Hamzat Balikis

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola remains optimistic despite the team’s alarming slump, losing six of their last seven games. The defending Premier League champions have fallen 11 points behind leaders Liverpool. Guardiola attributes the decline to injury woes, citing key players’ absences, including Rodri, Kyle Walker and Kevin De Bruyne.

Guardiola expressed confidence in his team’s ability to rebound once fully fit. “With all the squad this season, we’ll be close to the level that we reached last season,” he stated. Despite a 2-0 defeat to Liverpool, Guardiola praised City’s performance as “magnificent.” He emphasized consistency and performance in key areas as crucial for success.

Guardiola hinted at potential squad reinforcements in the January transfer window, pending internal discussions. He clarified Ederson’s status as primary goalkeeper and appealed to City fans for support against Nottingham Forest. Guardiola acknowledged the team’s human element, emphasizing the need for collective motivation to overcome their slump. With key players returning and fan support, Guardiola aims to revive Manchester City’s title challenge.

By Hamzat Balikis

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca is confident the team can dominate English football in the next decade. Despite an impressive start, sitting third in the Premier League with 25 points, Maresca downplays title chances, citing Arsenal and Liverpool’s established superiority. Chelsea trails Liverpool by nine points, and Maresca acknowledges the gap.

Maresca emphasized Chelsea’s progress under his management has exceeded expectations but urged caution. He noted Arsenal’s consistency and Liverpool’s dominance as reasons for restraint. Chelsea faces Southampton next, while Liverpool and Arsenal encounter tougher opponents. Maresca prioritizes gradual growth over immediate title aspirations.

Maresca’s long-term vision includes establishing a strong squad foundation, developing young talent, and gradual performance improvement. Chelsea aims to challenge for domestic and international honors. With Maresca’s leadership and vision, Chelsea is poised for future success. The team’s focus remains on steady improvement, with hopes of closing the gap on top teams in the coming seasons.