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90 Minutes Plus

90 Minutes Plus

By Rotimi Daramola

Starting conversations around the hottest (or often ignored) topics in football. If you're looking for robust discussions around football ecosystems, the history of the sport, football marketing as well as in-depth tactical analysis, then you've come to the right place.

Follow the exciting conversations as Rotimi Daramola talks to fans, journalists, policy shapers and decision makers in the beautiful game of football. Follow and subscribe to this feed so you don't miss an episode.
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Ep. 104: Africa's Mixed Response to Digital Media, Social Media Optimization and A Jersey Signed by the Juventus Squad

90 Minutes PlusJul 28, 2020

00:00
01:03:18
Unveiling the Mystery of Women's Football in Nigeria (Ep. 232)
Mar 14, 202401:00:22
How Far Away is Arteta from a Premier League Title This Season? (Ep. 231)
Mar 06, 202411:08
Leverkusen's Schadenfraude and Barcelona's 'Surprising' Jersey Sales (Ep. 230)
Feb 20, 202417:27
Triumphant Eagles, Comparing AFCON's Lions & Ghana's Unique Problem (Ep. 229)

Triumphant Eagles, Comparing AFCON's Lions & Ghana's Unique Problem (Ep. 229)

It's been an eventful first round of AFCON games. In this episode, Papi the Great is joined by Tosin, Tolu and Adedeji to discuss the results so far.

They touch on the surprise packages, predict the 'Final Four' and rate Nigeria's Super Eagles. Follow us on Twitter @The90MinsPlus


  • 00:00 - 05:18 - Intros and Final Predictions
  • 05:18 - 16:30 - Round 1's Best and Worst
  • 16:30 - 26:30 - Understanding what is Wrong with Ghana
  • 26:30 - 31:00 - Super Eagles Scorecard (after two games)
  • 31:00 - 33:50 - More Intros and Predictions
  • 33:50 - 38:40 - Is the Stock of African Football Rising
  • 38:40 - 44:20 - The Battle between Pace, Power and Technicality
  • 44:20 - 49:20 - Comparing Senegal and Cameroon
  • 49:20 - 53:15 - The Mystery Surrounding Nigerian Football
  • 53:15 - 58:15 - Informed Projections for the Rest of the Tournament
  • 58:15 - 1:01:10 - Discussing North Africans
  • 1:01:10 - End - More Predictions
Jan 20, 202401:03:56
AFCON '23 - Fan Complaints and Shock Results (Ep. 228)
Jan 15, 202420:53
Ep. 227: End-of-the-Year Football Marketing & an Unforgettable 2023
Dec 29, 202316:29
Ep. 226: All Arguments Around Jose Peseiro's List are Valid
Dec 22, 202316:29
Ep. 225: Victor Osimhen is CAF POTY: Counter-opinions Should not be Derogatory

Ep. 225: Victor Osimhen is CAF POTY: Counter-opinions Should not be Derogatory

The Nigerian striker was on course to be announced as CAF Player of the Year. What seemed to be a general consensus kicked up a bit of dust just hours before the award winner was announced.


And again, the ugly head of 'My Opinion vs. Your Opinion' again reared its ugly head in football. Here we are, again asking: Are some comments in football more important than others?

Dec 12, 202319:48
Ep. 224: When Was the Last Time Manchester City Conceded Four?

Ep. 224: When Was the Last Time Manchester City Conceded Four?

Stamford Bridge served football fans a classic when Chelsea and Manchester City played out an enthralling 4-4 draw. Now that the dust has settled, it's time to ask questions about both teams and Erling Haaland.


Nov 13, 202320:15
Ep. 223: How Much are Apologies in Football Worth?

Ep. 223: How Much are Apologies in Football Worth?

In the Premier League this season, poor refereeing decisions have largely been accompanied by apologies. The PGMOL have been seen expressing regret to clubs who have been affected by the errors of their officials.


But to what end? Are these apologies supposed to mean anything? Are they even necessary if the officials keep making these errors?

Oct 31, 202320:24
Ep. 222: Ballon d'Or - Making a Case for Julian Alvarez

Ep. 222: Ballon d'Or - Making a Case for Julian Alvarez

It's that time of the year when the initial Ballon d'Or shortlist surfaces and various fanbases make their argument.

After what was a mind-blowing debut season as a Manchester City player in which he won The Treble, Erling Haaland has been nominated for the award. Same as Lionel Messi who, for the umpteenth time, has made the shortlist.

But this time, the argument for him to win an eighth award is a different one: He has (finally) won the FIFA World Cup.

But what argument should be made for a player who won both The Treble and the FIFA World Cup?

Sep 07, 202315:37
Ep. 221: Serie A Returns and (the Uncomfortable) Early Referee Apologies

Ep. 221: Serie A Returns and (the Uncomfortable) Early Referee Apologies

The third weekend in August was one like no other. It had the World Cup final, more Premier League games and, of course, the return of Serie A football - featuring a handful of sumptuous goals.


But what's a weekend of football without questionable refereeing calls? That they're coming early in the season, should fans be worried?

Aug 21, 202316:15
Ep. 220: An Unforgettable FIFA Women's World Cup

Ep. 220: An Unforgettable FIFA Women's World Cup

Three African countries qualifying for the knockout stages is a rarity on the world stage when it comes to soccer.

But it has happened, being one of the many firsts, that the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup has served since it began on the 20th of July.

Aug 03, 202310:20
Ep. 219: Europa League final: An unstoppable force v An immovable object

Ep. 219: Europa League final: An unstoppable force v An immovable object

It's football heritage like football fans would rarely see. On on hand, a Sevilla side that needed extra-time to get past Juventus in the semi-finals. On the other, an AS Roma side that needed extra-time to get past Feyenoord in the quarter-finals. The goal: To win the Europa League.

Legacy, history, experience are all at stake as another continental title is decided.

May 31, 202320:55
Ep. 218: Bellissimo! - Italian Beauty in the Champions League

Ep. 218: Bellissimo! - Italian Beauty in the Champions League

And then they were EIGHT!

As things get heated up in the UCL, the Italians have stolen the headlines. From the teams to the gaffers, it seems like Operation Resucitate Calcio in the Champions League this season. Also, as we countdown to the draws, Real Madrid seem to be the only side flying the Spain colors. Are they the team to beat (again) this season)


Mar 16, 202315:29
Ep. 217: Why is the Tight(le) Race in the German Bundesliga Not As Popular?

Ep. 217: Why is the Tight(le) Race in the German Bundesliga Not As Popular?

In the German Bundesliga, Bayern Munich (in 1st place) and SC Freiburg (in 5th place) are separated by just five points. These two sides, including the three sandwiched in-between are still technically alive in Europe. Add to that the 12 rounds of league games still to be played, and a lot can still happen in this race.

However, this does not take anything away from what has been interestingly tight race at the summit of Germany's premier club football league. So, why is this neck-to-neck tussle in Germany not as popular? Why is the 'most competitive' of Europe's top 5 leagues this season not being deservedly discussed as it should?


Mar 01, 202315:35
Ep. 216: No Longer Lonely at the Top for Arsenal as They Get Unfriendly Company

Ep. 216: No Longer Lonely at the Top for Arsenal as They Get Unfriendly Company

Arsenal's loss to Manchester City was their first at the Emirates this season. Now joint-top of the Premier League table (second no thanks to goals difference), Arteta's got company in a position that was once lonely. Can the Gunners go the distance this season?
Feb 16, 202314:15
Ep. 215: 4 Factors That Can Stop Arsenal from Winning the Premier League Title

Ep. 215: 4 Factors That Can Stop Arsenal from Winning the Premier League Title

With the second-best offense and second-best defense in the league, Arsenal are cruising at the top of the Premier League table. As the second half of the season kicks off, the conversation has shifted to whether or not they can win a first Premier League title since 2004.

They've shown how strong they are as title contenders. But can they overcome these four hurdles on their way to being champions of England? 

Jan 25, 202316:09
Ep. 214: Arsenal Fans Can't Wait for Man. United & the Abrupt End to a 9-game Winning Run
Jan 19, 202310:49
Ep. 213: Juventus' Water-tight Defense Another Reason to Love the Serie A this Season
Jan 10, 202307:49
Ep. 212: Chelsea's 1st Half vs. Man. City's 2nd Half

Ep. 212: Chelsea's 1st Half vs. Man. City's 2nd Half

Chelsea's first half performance had us thinking about why the Blues fans were skeptical about facing Man. City. Their second half display, however, proved that the fears were true.

On the other hand, champions Manchester City, showed the world why they're back-to-back Premier League champions, especially with Pep Guardiola's 2nd half subs and the general performance.

Thursday night was a tale about two different sides. But there are only a few things that separates both teams.

Kindly rate, cheer and like wherever you get this podcast episode.

Jan 06, 202306:17
Ep. 211: Playing Second Fiddle in a World Cup Year & Mendy's Benteke-Haaland Comparison

Ep. 211: Playing Second Fiddle in a World Cup Year & Mendy's Benteke-Haaland Comparison

Who wants to be second choice in their football club? Maybe former Liverpool super-sub, Divock Origi. But you won't find a lot of other players happy to be unsure of a starting berth in their clubs. With a World Cup tournament in the offing, players are looking for more playing time. And that's affecting a lot of other things.

In other news, Edouard Mendy has made a 'strange' comparison between Christian Benteke and Erling Haaland. Sets us up for a tasty Chelsea-Manchester City clash this season, not so?

Jul 15, 202210:21
Ep. 210: Bayana Bayana's Statement Win & a Botswana to Worry About

Ep. 210: Bayana Bayana's Statement Win & a Botswana to Worry About

The Super Falcons' #GoingFor10th mission had a false start in Morocco on the 4th of July.

Unlike in a 100m dash and similar to a Mario Kart game, they have a handful of lives left. If they must get La Decima, they must defeat Botswana - at least to start with; one of the only two sides that scored 4 goals in their opening game.

In other news, was that a preview of the Africa Women Cup of Nations final this year? Also, is women football on the continent so bad that it can't attract fans to the stadium?

Reach out to us on Twitter @OneForTheGoals
Jul 05, 202209:01
Ep. 209: Paolo's Revelations & the Premier League's Advantage

Ep. 209: Paolo's Revelations & the Premier League's Advantage

The gap between the Serie A and the Premier League is widening. And one man is not only complaining about it, but shedding more light on the differences that most are not paying attention to.

On the other hand, the AC Milan chairman has highlighted some of the advantages of the Premier League.

Has the Premier League become 'uncatchable'? Is it about era, availability or star-power?

Find more podcast content on Twitter @OneForTheGoals

Jun 30, 202213:58
Ep. 208: NPFL Takes Extra Time to Another Level and the 'Mysterious' Exodus at Chelsea

Ep. 208: NPFL Takes Extra Time to Another Level and the 'Mysterious' Exodus at Chelsea

There was drama again in the Nigerian Professional Football League as 'extra time' was given another kind of meaning in the game between Katsina United and Remo Stars.

Then there's the exodus at Chelsea as another big name exits the Chelsea hierarchy. Is this the part where Chelsea fans start getting worried? Are these the side effects of the change of ownership at a football club?

Jun 27, 202211:17
Ep. 207: A Transfer Window Of Bargaining Power and Player

Ep. 207: A Transfer Window Of Bargaining Power and Player

The World Cup in November means teams are trying to get their business done as quickly as possible. As such, we have a 'strange' summer transfer window on our hands, with the elephant in the room getting even bigger!
Jun 22, 202214:00
Ep. 206: "Something died inside me": Enduring the Off-Season in Club Football

Ep. 206: "Something died inside me": Enduring the Off-Season in Club Football

With the FIFA World Cup set for November, the football calendar has been a bit strange. It has featured strange anomalies like an international break in June, an off-season version of the Ronaldo-Messi debate and strange quotes from Robert.
Jun 07, 202212:36
Ep. 205: "An Eloquent Summation of Their Fall From Grace": Man. Utd's AmEx Fall-out

Ep. 205: "An Eloquent Summation of Their Fall From Grace": Man. Utd's AmEx Fall-out

The Red Devils are on course to finish with their lowest-ever points tally in a Premier League season. And their shambolic display against Brighton will be one of those losses that won't be forgotten in a hurry. Some'd say, they travelled 4 nothing!
May 09, 202208:39
Ep. 204: Jollof in the West & the UWCL Numbers in the North

Ep. 204: Jollof in the West & the UWCL Numbers in the North

While men rested, the ladies of Europe put on a show. And it was one to remember! We also take a look at the rice-ing situation in Africa as the CAF WCQ Play-offs get underway
Mar 24, 202211:33
Ep. 203: The 'Original Ronaldo' Headache, Reviewing AFCON & Chelsea's Faulty System

Ep. 203: The 'Original Ronaldo' Headache, Reviewing AFCON & Chelsea's Faulty System

In this episode, Tunde Young joins us to discuss what's wrong at Chelsea and also talks about his best performing side in the AFCON tournament. He had more surprises in his kitty as he demystified the 'Original Ronaldo' headache.
Feb 18, 202248:45
Ep. 202: Foxes in the (African) Box and a 97th Minute Winner

Ep. 202: Foxes in the (African) Box and a 97th Minute Winner

Profligacy: reckless extravagance or wastefulness in the use of resources. By the way, are African referees using VAR the right way?
Jan 20, 202219:34
Ep. 201: Once Upon A Time: Arguments About AFCON, Guardiola and The Team of the Year

Ep. 201: Once Upon A Time: Arguments About AFCON, Guardiola and The Team of the Year

Welcome to Season II of the First X Minutes podcast. In the 50th episode of the year, I relive my experience at the Lekan Salami Stadium, while also countering the Pep-Guardiola-spent-money arguments making the waves. Reach out to us on Twitter @OneForTheGoals
Dec 30, 202121:40
Ep. 200: Football Awards Season: Aesthetics or the Truth?

Ep. 200: Football Awards Season: Aesthetics or the Truth?

Lionel Messi was given his 7th Balon d'Or award at the Chatelet Theatre in Paris on the 29th of November, 2021. While that number is weapon enough in the Arsenal for those who engage in the GOAT debate, what about these awards? Have they become aesthetics, rather than a true reflection of what's happening on the pitch? Celebrate our 200th episode with us by subscribing wherever you get your podcast episode while also leaving us a comment/review.
Nov 30, 202114:02
Ep. 199: Lewandowski and Haller: The 9-ce Guys of the Champions League

Ep. 199: Lewandowski and Haller: The 9-ce Guys of the Champions League

From cancelled goals at the Camp Nou, to the goal-line clearances at the Etihad and Stamford Bridge, Round 5 of the UEFA Champions League group stage games was one to remember. And ehile the boys are being separated from the men, a huge winner-takes-all scramble looms ahead in the final round of games. Follow us on Twitter @OneForTheGoals
Nov 26, 202115:15
Ep. 198: Dilly Ding, Dilly Gone: #OleOut and the Goal Rush in Italy

Ep. 198: Dilly Ding, Dilly Gone: #OleOut and the Goal Rush in Italy

Ole's no more at the wheels. What next now for Man. Utd, especially with almost evwry jobless manager being linked to the job? And what's going on in the Serie A? Why are so many goals being scored? Follow us on Twitter @OneForTheGoals
Nov 22, 202115:51
Ep. 197: Eyes on the Ball, Arguing for Equal Pay and the Female Coach Handed a Relegated Men's Team

Ep. 197: Eyes on the Ball, Arguing for Equal Pay and the Female Coach Handed a Relegated Men's Team

In this episode of the podcast, Deborah joins us to talk about her journey as a football player thus far. She also weighs in on some of the challenges she faces as she continues to chase her dreams of becoming a professional footballer. There was time enough to talk about a record-breaker and also make a few comparisons. Follow us on Twitter @OmeForTheGoals
Nov 15, 202141:23
Ep. 196: Guilty United Players, Red Party for Serie A Managers & Le Classique of Canceled Goals

Ep. 196: Guilty United Players, Red Party for Serie A Managers & Le Classique of Canceled Goals

#OleOut is not going anywhere soon, unlike the goalless draw at Marseille. However, absolving the Manchester United players of any wrong in that dismantling at Old Trafford is to be one-sided. Follow us on Twitter @OneForTheGoals
Oct 25, 202120:50
Ep. 195. Devils Massacred by the Foxes & End-to-End Stuff at the Capitale

Ep. 195. Devils Massacred by the Foxes & End-to-End Stuff at the Capitale

Club football definitely returned with a BIG BANG. There was no time for theories as the practicality dawned on fans per game, over the weekend. Barcelona's win over Valencia was probably the most-surprising result, after the King Power Massacre, of course. Follow us on Twitter @OneForTheGoals
Oct 18, 202124:07
Ep. 194: The Unforgiving and Fast-Paced Copa Libertadores Semi-final Games

Ep. 194: The Unforgiving and Fast-Paced Copa Libertadores Semi-final Games

Featuring three Brasil Serie A sides and one from Ecuador, the Copa Libertadores semi-final featured two games lf contrasting nature. While one was cagey, the other was filled with goals and red cards. But none was a quiet game. Follow us on Twitter @OneForTheGoals
Sep 24, 202122:42
Ep. 193: Luis Diáz, Caputo & (Spaghetti) Bolognese: Another Perspective on Time

Ep. 193: Luis Diáz, Caputo & (Spaghetti) Bolognese: Another Perspective on Time

How much time is enough time for a player to develop? How much time is enough to give to a player that's past his prime? How much time is enough time to settle into a team? Follow us on Twitter @OneForTheGoals
Sep 21, 202120:56
Ep. 192: Football's Inevitables & a Super Sunday in September

Ep. 192: Football's Inevitables & a Super Sunday in September

Cristiano Ronaldo, Erling Haaland, Romelu Lukaku and Robert Lewandowski have been firing on all cylinders in their last two games. And it seems they're here to stay, at least till the year ends. Follow us on Twitter @OneForTheGoals
Sep 17, 202119:15
Ep. 191: Bavarian Bullies, Ligue 1's Anger(s) and the Hammers With a Gaping Hole at the Back

Ep. 191: Bavarian Bullies, Ligue 1's Anger(s) and the Hammers With a Gaping Hole at the Back

Club football takes a backseat as international football gets underway. While we enjoy the race for Qatar 2022, we review the little club football action that we've enjoyed so far. Follow us on Twitter @OneForTheGoals
Aug 31, 202118:58
Ep. 190: Atalanta's Title Charge, a Very Open Season Ahead and Why the Serie A is the Best in Europe

Ep. 190: Atalanta's Title Charge, a Very Open Season Ahead and Why the Serie A is the Best in Europe

As a new Serie A season kicks in, Adeyemi Adesanya joins us to preview what's to come. We touch on the not-so-new managers, players to look out for and how the league can improve on its latest achievements.

Follow us on Twitter @OneForTheGoals

Time Stamp

  • 00:00 - 05:35 - Introduction
  • 05:35 - 13:20 - Italian Football in the 90's and Now: What Has Changed?
  • 13:20 - 16:10 - Analyzing the 2020/2021 Italian Serie A Season
  • 16:10 - 20:55 - Summer Transfer Window: Biggest Winners and Losers
  • 20:55 - 28:00 - What to Expect from the Managerial Merry-Go-Round Season
  • 28:00 - 31:05 - Simy Nwankwo: A Nigerian Star Holding His Own
  • 31:05 - 37:00 - The Biggest Names to Watch Out For This Season
  • 37:00 - 40:30 - Will Torino Survive?
  • 40:30 - 44:55 - Why Atalanta Will Win the Serie A Title This Season
  • 44:55 - 49:00 - Italian Teams That Will Go the Furthest in the UCL and UEL
  • 49:00 - End - Which Team Should I Support in the Serie A


Aug 20, 202155:18
Ep. 189: Season Predictions: Why Barcelona Won't Fall Apart, Handicapped Man. Utd and AS Roma to Fall Short

Ep. 189: Season Predictions: Why Barcelona Won't Fall Apart, Handicapped Man. Utd and AS Roma to Fall Short

In this episode of the podcast, Chioma aka Neymar and Angela, aka Messi, join us to preview the Premier League season.

The also chip in on happenings in Barcelona and which teams they expect to come out on top in the Italian Serie A.

Follow @OneForTheGoals for more podcast content.

Time Stamp

  • 00:00 - 05:00 - Introduction
  • 05:00 - 14:55 - Being Real vs. Being Positive: Can Man. Utd Go One Step Further This Season? Can Ole Do it?
  • 14:55 - 17:00 - The Naming Ceremony
  • 17:00 - 21:30 - The Biggest Winners and Losers of the Transfer Window
  • 21:30 - 26:30 -  My Top Four for the Season
  • 26:30 - 30:00 - Can Burnley and Brighton Escape Again?
  • 30:00 - 33:00 - Spare a Thought for a Struggling Side
  • 33:00 - 40:00 - Can Everybody Shine in PSG? Will Messi's Absense Affect Barcelona?
  • 40:00 - 51:45 - PL Top Scorers and the Italian Serie A
  • 51:45 - 55:30 Team to Go the Furthest in the UEFA Champions League


Aug 14, 202156:03
Ep. 188: New Premier League Season: How Difficult is It to Predict MatchDay 1 Games?

Ep. 188: New Premier League Season: How Difficult is It to Predict MatchDay 1 Games?

Premier League football is back! And with fans able to make their voices heard across stadia again, it's safe to say the PL returns with a bang! But which teams will start their season with a win? Which games will feature the goals? Follow @OneForTheGoals for more podcast content.
Aug 13, 202112:46
Ep. 187: Ligue 1 101 (Episode II): Jorge's Marseille, Nantes' Survival and the Team(s) to Support

Ep. 187: Ligue 1 101 (Episode II): Jorge's Marseille, Nantes' Survival and the Team(s) to Support

In the second edition of TFXM's Ligue 1 101, Cerebrone and Powerful are, once again, our tour guides.

Papi the Great speaks to them about the Trophees des Champions, the winners and losers of the summer transfer window, and, of course, name pronunciations.

Listen and leave a rating. Follow us on Twitter @OneForTheGoals

Time Stamp

  • 00:00 - 04:00: Introduction
  • 04:00 - 15:00: Trophees des Champion Review
  • 16:20 - 31:25: Ligue 1's Biggest Winners and Losers of the Summer Transfer Window
  • 31:25 - 38:00: Ligue 1 101: Player Pronunciation
  • 38:00 - 47:25: Which Ligue 1 Team Should I Support This Season?
  • 47:25 - 52:50: Can Nantes Survive Another Season?
  • 52:50 -  1:01:45: Predictions for the 2021/2022 Ligue 1 Season
  • 1:01:45 - : Teams to Finish 13th and 8th on the Log


Aug 05, 202101:07:08
Ep. 186: Olympic Football Players In Red and Predictions for the Quarter-finals

Ep. 186: Olympic Football Players In Red and Predictions for the Quarter-finals

Time for knockout football in the Olympics as teams have been separated. Will the Red Card party continue? Will the girls continue scoring? Which games will feature both sides scoring? Follow us on Twitter @OneForTheGoals
Jul 28, 202116:23
Ep. 185: Goals Galore for the Girls as Gold Rush Continues in Tokyo

Ep. 185: Goals Galore for the Girls as Gold Rush Continues in Tokyo

Press, Ludmila, Banda, and Miedema all shone like a million stars at the Tokyo Olympics. 31 goals after, here's a short summary of how things played out bwtween the teams.
Jul 24, 202120:50
Ep. 184: Football at the Olympics: Round 1's Biggest Winners

Ep. 184: Football at the Olympics: Round 1's Biggest Winners

Sweden upsetting the USA Women's Football Team, Richarlison's 30-minute hattrick and the Dutch scoring 10 (TEN), football got off to a blistering start in the Tokyo Olympics. In this episode, I discuss some of the biggest winners from that round of games. Follow us on Twitter @OneForTheGoals
Jul 23, 202127:20
Ep. 183: What I Learnt From Watching Sergio Ramos' First Training Session at PSG

Ep. 183: What I Learnt From Watching Sergio Ramos' First Training Session at PSG

With little live football to watch, I turned to the internet and watched Sergio Ramos' first training session. And while watching, I noticed a few things that'll be the trend before the new football season in Europe kicks in. Follow @OneForTheGoals for more podcast content.
Jul 15, 202113:02