Naija Football Extra

The Confederation of African Football, has banned referee Joseph Ogabor for a year for "attempted match manipulation". Caf says the incident concerned a Confederation Cup match between Nigeria's Plateau United and USM Alger of Algeria's on 7 April in Lagos. "The decision follows investigations conducted and evidence submitted by the South African match officials of the said match, who were contacted by Ogabor to provide "technical assistance" to the Nigerian team," a Caf statement read. Plateau United were also '"cautioned to refrain from the practice of hospitality gifts which tend to create wrong impression." "In a related development, the South African Football Association have been ordered to render an apology to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) after investigations proved there was no evidence of whatsoever of any official of the NFF regarding an allegation of US$30,000 bribe," the statement concluded.

Enyimba weathered a second half onslaught to come away with a 1-1 draw against Bidvest Wits on Friday in Johannesburg. The CAF Confederation Cup 1/16th Round tie pitted Nigeria’s most successful club and two-time African champions against the reigning South African PSL champions at the Milpark Stadium; a draw that promised to be absorbing. It certainly lived up to the billing, right from the kick-off, and even though the scoring was done inside the opening five minutes, the tempo of proceedings did not let up until the very end. Paul Aigbogun made one change from the side that beat MFM FC in league action nine days prior. Benjamin Francis returned to the starting lineup following a spell out with injury, although his comeback would eventually be cut short in the second half. The hosts were keen to make a statement from the get-go, but for all their bravery, they were handed an early lead almost on a platter. A clearance by Nelson Ogbonnaya was inadvertently headed...

Enyimba Football Club arrived Johannesburg in the early hours of Thursday for Friday's CAF Confederation Cup encounter with Bidvest Wits.   A strong contingent of 36 made the flight over from Lagos to the O.R Tambo International Airport, led by club chairman, Chief Felix Anyansi Agwu.   Anyansi, in a brief welcome address, stressed the need to focus on the business of the trip. The seasoned administrator enjoined the team to maintain a strong group ethic, and for each individual to eschew all possible distractions. The players noted that they are ready for the game as a good first leg result will help them in the second leg in Calabar.    The People's Elephant is camped at the Sierra On Main Hotel in Randburg, and the contingent was treated to a lavish breakfast before being committed to rest and recovery. Later in the day, Enyimba will limber up and get a feel of the Milpark Stadium, which is the venue of Friday's 1/16th final First Leg.