Kicking off!

On Thursday, most Nigerian football fans suffered a huge disappointment because of the ranking of football playing nations released on that day by the World football governing body FIFA. By the latest ranking, Nigeria slipped down to 36th position from the previous 33rd back in October. Although Nigeria dropped in world ranking, the Super Eagles are still fourth in Africa with Elephants of Cote d’Ivoire retaining the number one position.

It is an understatement to say that Nigerians are shocked at the latest downward movement of the Super Eagles in FIFA ranking. This is because of the high expectations following the team’s recent performances.

Consequently, this week’s cover of SHOT! brings to our teeming readers the mixed reactions that trailed the ranking that violently dashed the expectations of most Nigerians. Read our cover story for the divergent views expressed by sports personalities on the highly ‘ disappointing ranking’ from FIFA.

In the interview section, we have for your reading delight the exclusive interview we had with one of the most talented Nigerian goalkeepers, Dami Paul. The former Golden Eaglets and Flying Eagles goalie who has his eyes on the National U- 23 said even as he is not a very tall man, he does great things that taller goalkeepers cannot do.

At 40, Giggs has reached an age when most outfield players are either long retired, or knocking about at a far lower level than Europe’s premier club competition but he is still dazzling in the colours of United. What is the secret behind the success of this Manchester United’s legend? Surely mindfulness is the answer.

And in our Euro Round Up we bring to you Arsene Wenger’s candid assessment of his goalkeeper, Wojciech Szczesny and how he believes the man from Poland can become an Arsenal legend. Meanwhile, Bayern Munichen’s striker Thomas Muller believes there is nothing standing in the way of a Bayern Munich player winning the Ballon d’Or this year.

We believe you will find this package as captivating as the ones that preceded it. If so, please keep a date with us.

Thanks and have a splendid weekend!