AFCON Final: Ways To Ensure Personal Safety While Watching Nigeria Vs Cote d’Ivoire

Published

2 years ago

February 10, 2024

Not less than four persons were reported dead while watching the Nigeria vs South Africa semi-final match.

While one of those confirmed dead was reportedly hypertensive, the cause of death remains undetermined for others.

The Super Eagles of Nigeria will again battle the Elephants of Ivory Coast in the final of the ongoing African Cup of Nations in Abidjan on Sunday.

In this report, The PUNCH highlights some ways to ensure personal safety and prevent health complications while watching the match on Sunday evening:

1. Monitor Your Blood Pressure: Keep track of your blood pressure before, during, and after the match, and take necessary actions if you notice any significant increase.

2. Stay Hydrated with Water: Drink plenty of water throughout the game to stay hydrated and maintain optimal blood circulation.

3. Avoid Heavy Meals: Opt for light, nutritious snacks instead of heavy or greasy foods to avoid putting extra strain on your cardiovascular system.

4. Prioritise Sleep: Ensure you get adequate rest before and after the match, as lack of sleep can contribute to elevated blood pressure levels.

5. Stay Active: Incorporate light physical activity during breaks, like stretching or gentle yoga, to promote blood circulation and reduce tension.

6. Have a Support and Emergency Plan: Watch the game with supportive friends or family, and keep important phone numbers handy in case of emergencies.

7. Limit Alcohol Consumption: Avoid excessive alcohol to prevent dehydration and worsening of hypertension.

8. Monitor Temperature and Humidity: Be aware of environmental factors like heat and humidity, which can increase stress on the body.

9. Use Relaxation Techniques: Practice techniques like progressive muscle relaxation or guided imagery to lower stress levels during intense moments.

10. Stay Informed About Health Conditions: Understand how pre-existing health conditions may interact with the excitement of the game and take appropriate precautions.

11. Communicate with Healthcare Providers: Consult with your healthcare provider beforehand to plan for managing hypertension during the match.

12. Take Breaks When Needed: Step away from the game if feeling overwhelmed, and engage in calming activities until you feel more relaxed.

13. Engage In Light Exercise: Use halftime for light physical activities like walking or stretching to promote relaxation and improve circulation.

14. Use Stress Balls Or Fidget Toys: Keep stress-relief tools on hand to help lower stress levels during intense moments.

15. Stay Mindful of Body Signals: Pay attention to your body’s signals and respond promptly to symptoms of increased blood pressure or discomfort.

16. Plan Relaxing Activities After The Game: Schedule calming activities for after the match to unwind and decompress.

By following these safety tips, you can enjoy Nigeria vs Cote d’Ivoire final while prioritising your health and well-being.

PUNCH

JUST IN: Full Draw For 2026 World Cup Group Stages Confirmed

Published

2 hours ago

December 5, 2025

Editor

The draw for the group stage of the 2026 World Cup has been conducted.

It took place at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., with US President Donald Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino in charge.

There will be 48 teams at next year’s tournament, to be played across the United States, Mexico and Canada.

All the participating countries were grouped into 12 groups of four.

Here is the full draw:

Group A: Mexico, South Africa, South Korea, Winner Play-off D
Group B: Canada, Winner Play-off A, Qatar, Switzerland
Group C: Brazil, Morocco, Haiti, Scotland
Group D: United States, Paraguay, Australia, Winner Play-off C
Group E: Germany, Curaçao, Ivory Coast, Ecuador
Group F: Netherlands, Japan, Winner Play-off B, Tunisia
Group G: Belgium, Egypt, Iran, New Zealand
Group H: Spain, Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia, Uruguay
Group I: France, Senegal, Winner Play-off 2, Norway
Group J: Argentina, Algeria, Austria, Jordan
Group K: Portugal, Winner Play-off 1, Colombia, Uzbekistan
Group L: England, Croatia, Panama, Ghana

Sports

EPL: Mikel Obi Reveals Why Chelsea Failed To Beat Arsenal in 1-1 Draw

Published

3 days ago

December 2, 2025

Editor

Former Super Eagles midfielder, John Mikel Obi, has claimed Chelsea failed to defeat Arsenal in the Premier League on Sunday, because of an early red card to Moises Caicedo.

The two London rivals played out a pulsating 1-1 draw at Stamford Bridge.

Caicedo was sent off in the 38th minute following a VAR check.

But it was Chelsea who took the lead after the break, thanks to Trevor Chalobah’s header.

But the Gunners equalized through Mikel Merino.

So far this season, Chelsea have received seven red cards in 20 games across all competitions this season.

“That’s four red cards this season; it’s not good enough. I’ve spoken about it; the manager needs to talk with the players, because it’s costing us games as well,” Mikel Obi said on his podcast.

“If you look at that game, if we finished with eleven men, I think we could’ve won. Maybe not easily, but comfortably, we could’ve secured a win.”

Sports

EPL: Slot Reveals When Salah Will Leave For AFCON

Published

3 days ago

December 2, 2025

Editor

Liverpool manager, Arne Slot, has revealed that Mohamed Salah was “not happy” to be dropped for their 2-0 win at West Ham on Sunday.

Salah was named on the bench at the London Stadium for the Premier League fixture.

Slot took the bold decision, as he looked to arrest a poor run of form, that saw the Reds lose nine of 12 matches.

Salah was not summoned from the bench for the entire 90 minutes, as goals from Alexander Isak and Cody Gakpo sealed victory.

“It was a normal reaction for a player who is good enough to play for us,” Slot said.

“I say that mildly as he’s been so outstanding for this club and will be in the future. He wasn’t happy he wasn’t starting but he wasn’t the only one.”

Salah could yet return to the starting line-up as Liverpool host Sunderland in the Premier League on Wednesday night.

The 33-year-old will remain available for the next four matches, before he leaves to join Egypt’s squad for the African Cup of Nations.

“It’s 15 December,” Slot confirmed.

“But always in these situations there is the player and the national team involved and there are always talks about what is best for all three of us.”