Chelsea Gains Iwobi’s Boost Ahead of Poland and Portugal Friendlies

Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi has given both Fulham and Nigeria a significant boost after being cleared to return to action following a hamstring injury.

Fulham manager Marco Silva confirmed that the Nigerian has resumed full training and is now in contention for the Premier League match against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Sunday.

Iwobi missed the last three league games—against Aston Villa, Arsenal and Bournemouth—after suffering a hamstring strain during the first half of Fulham’s 0‑0 draw with Brentford at the Gtech Community Stadium.

During his pre‑match press conference, Silva expressed his pleasure at the midfielder’s recovery and highlighted his importance to the team.

“Alex is back in contention for the game,” Silva said. “Last week, he had some training sessions with us. This week, throughout the week, he’s been working with us. It’s been a good week for him.”

Silva also praised Iwobi’s versatility and technical skill, calling him “a big player for us.”

“He’s a player who’s very versatile, who can play in many different positions. He’s also a player that can add extra quality in the decision‑making,” the coach added. “In all aspects of the game he’s a key player for us and he’s shown it again this season. It’s a boost. Definitely, it’s a boost.”

Iwobi’s return comes at a timely moment for Nigeria’s new coach Eric Chelle, as the Super Eagles prepare for friendly matches against Portugal and Poland.

Since taking charge, Chelle has relied on Iwobi in midfield, valuing his creativity, composure and tactical flexibility. The midfielder’s availability is expected to strengthen Nigeria’s squad ahead of these high‑profile European opponents and could help improve the country’s FIFA ranking.

Okpekpe Road Race Appoints Dr Bojuwoye, Unveils Partners for 11th Edition

The organisers of the Okpekpe International 10km Road Race have announced that Dr Adebukola Bojuwoye will serve as head of the medical unit for the 11th edition, scheduled for Saturday, 30 May, in Okpekpe, Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State.

Bojuwoye, a seasoned medical professional with extensive experience in road‑running events across Nigeria, will oversee emergency medical response, coordinate first‑aid stations along the course, ensure athlete safety, and supervise medical volunteers and paramedics.

His role is critical for safeguarding the health of elite and recreational runners alike, as well as spectators.

In addition to appointing a new medical director, the organisers revealed five corporate partners for the 2026 edition: Development Bank of Nigeria, Petralon Energy, Razzl Drink, Dan Oil and Carloha Motors.

The race, organised by Pamodzi Sports Marketing Company, has grown steadily since becoming the first road race in Nigeria to earn World Athletics label status in 2015, and has since advanced to Gold Label Race status, attracting elite athletes from around the world and cementing its reputation as one of Africa’s benchmark road‑running competitions.

Edo State, under Governor Monday Okpebolo, has reaffirmed its support for the event, citing its role in promoting tourism, community pride and international recognition for the region.

Race Director Zack Amodu said the new partnerships underscore the event’s stature and its impact beyond sport.

“We are delighted to welcome DBN, Petralon, Razzl and Carloha Motors as partners for the 11th edition. Their support, alongside the backing of Edo State, not only strengthens the race but also reinforces its role as a platform for promoting excellence, youth empowerment and community development,” Amodu said.

Beyond its sporting significance, the Okpekpe International 10km Road Race serves as a catalyst for social, health and economic benefits. It encourages fitness and healthy lifestyles, fosters social cohesion by bringing communities together, and generates economic activity through tourism, hospitality and local commerce.

The event also showcases Edo State’s cultural vibrancy while contributing to Nigeria’s growing reputation in global athletics.

The 11th edition is expected to attract elite athletes, local participants and international attention, further consolidating Nigeria’s place on the global athletics calendar.