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

Published

2 years ago

February 10, 2024

Editor

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

EPL: Rooney Names Team To Win Title

Published

18 hours ago

May 5, 2026

Editor

Former Manchester United striker, Wayne Rooney, has said Arsenal will go on to win the Premier League title, after Manchester City dropped points against Everton.

City were held to a 3-3 draw at the Hill Dickinson Stadium on Monday night.

The result means Pep Guardiola’s men are now five points behind Arsenal, but they have one game in hand.

Rooney believes the Gunners will beat West Ham this weekend and go on to be champions.

He said on BBC Sport: “No, I’m concerned for West Ham. I just think Arsenal are efficient and professional.

“I just think they will win every game. So obviously, with the result tonight, that means they will win the league.”

UCL, EPL: Petr Cech Advises Chelsea On How To Win Trophies

Published

2 days ago

May 4, 2026

Editor

Chelsea legend, Petr Cech, has advised his old club on how to win the UEFA Champions League or the English Premier League.

Chelsea are already out of the Premier League title race this season, and they are at risk of missing out on UEFA Champions League qualification for next season because they are currently not in the ninth position on the Premier League table.

Speaking to The Athletic about Chelsea, Cech said that the Blues need to change their philosophy of signing only young players if they want to win the Premier League or Champions League.

According to the former goalkeeper, the Premier League west London club needs to add experienced players to mentor the young players in the squad.

“You have to look at what you want to achieve. You can have young, talented players, and you can win, but it’s very rare that you manage to do that,” he said.

“If you want to win every season and compete every season, that does not go together.

“You have to change your philosophy. Certain things don’t go together because, in order to win a Champions League or a Premier League… these are really tough competitions, and you have to be consistent.

“You need to have a strong core of the team. And then you can bring young, talented players who will grow faster and then will be held by the experienced players to help navigate them through difficult times when they come.”

Currently, Chelsea have just one player, Tosin Adarabioyo, who is over 28 this season, and the defender has not been playing regularly.

Sports

Enabulele Lauds Okpebholo’s Bold Reforms As Edo Sports Witnesses Revival

Published

6 days ago

April 30, 2026

Editor

The Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Hon. Amadin Desmond Enabulele, has commended Governor Monday Okpebholo for what he described as a bold and transformative approach to sports development.

Speaking on efforts to reposition sports in the state, Enabulele noted that with Okpebholo’s visionary leadership, the sector has witnessed renewed growth.

In a statement issued by his Media Officer, Edoko Wilson Edoko, the Edo Sports Commission boss attributed the progress to the governor’s strategic policies and sustained commitment to youth development, which he said have laid the foundation for a more structured and results-driven system.

“His Excellency has demonstrated clear vision and genuine commitment to sports development. The level of support we are receiving has significantly repositioned Edo as a competitive force in national sporting events,” he said.

He explained that targeted investments in grassroots development are already producing results, with a growing number of young talents being identified and nurtured across multiple disciplines.

“We are deliberately building from the grassroots. A large percentage of our athletes today are homegrown, which speaks to the sustainability of our development model,” Enabulele added.

The Commission, he noted, is also shifting away from an over-reliance on football to a broader multi-sport focus.

Edo State, he said, is now recording improved performances in athletics, combat sports, and other emerging areas.

“Our goal is to strengthen all sports. The results are beginning to show across different disciplines, and this is only the start,” he said.

Enabulele further pointed to ongoing improvements in sports infrastructure and athlete welfare as critical factors in sustaining performance and encouraging wider participation among young people.

“We are building a system that will endure. With the continued support of the governor, Edo is on course to becoming a dominant force in sports at both national and international levels,” he stated.

He expressed confidence that the current momentum would translate into greater achievements for Edo athletes, reaffirming the Commission’s commitment to excellence, discipline, and long-term development.