As the countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup begins, fans worldwide are gearing up to watch their favorite teams compete. Yet, there are nations with passionate football lovers who can’t even dream of participating in the tournament. FIFA’s strict membership criteria exclude several countries from the global football stage. Here’s a look at eight such nations and why they’re missing out: 1. Micronesia A Pacific island group with a population of 115,000, Micronesia faces significant challenges like financial constraints and travel limitations. Despite local enthusiasm for football, the lack of FIFA-standard stadiums and the high costs of international competition…
Author: Oluwaseun samuel
Portugal coach Roberto Martínez has showered Cristiano Ronaldo with praise for his remarkable work ethic and dedication to training. According to a tweet from Fabrizio Romano, Martínez commended Ronaldo’s mentality and attitude, saying, “We see Cristiano scoring goals, but the way he trains… that’s fantastic.” Martínez emphasized that Ronaldo’s approach to training sets a high standard for the entire team, highlighting his commitment to excellence. “The mentality, the attitude, his training sessions are showing the way. He’s been great as usual. We’re happy,” Martínez added. Ronaldo’s relentless dedication and tireless work ethic have been crucial to his ongoing success, and…
Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye has revealed that Chelsea is his dream destination in the Premier League. Speaking to SportyTV, Okoye shared that he has always supported the West London club, although he is not a die-hard fan. “Playing in the Premier League is a dream for me,” Okoye said. “For me, in the Premier League, it’s Chelsea. I’m not a Chelsea fan, but I’ve always supported them. I wouldn’t say Chelsea is my team because my clubs are in Germany, but in England, Chelsea is my team.” The Udinese goalkeeper is currently with the Nigerian national team as they…
YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul triumphed over former world heavyweight champion Mike Tyson in a controversial fight on Friday night. Paul secured the win on points, with the judges scoring the bout 80-72, 79-73, and 79-73 in his favor, despite being 31 years younger than Tyson. The fight was streamed live on Netflix. Tyson, struggling with his movement throughout the fight, landed just 18 punches out of 97 thrown over the course of 16 minutes. In contrast, Paul was far more active, landing 78 of his 278 punches. While Paul appeared hesitant to pursue a knockout in the final rounds, his dominance…
Atalanta has set a €50m price tag for their star player, Ademola Lookman, according to Il Corriere dello Sport. The Nigeria international was courted by Ligue 1 giants Paris Saint-Germain during the summer transfer window but ultimately chose to stay at Atalanta. Lookman has been in superb form this season, contributing eight goals and five assists in 14 appearances across all competitions. Interest in the 27-year-old is expected to grow, with more clubs likely to target him next summer. Despite having a contract running until 2026, Atalanta holds the option to extend it by another year. Lookman joined Bergamo from…
Super Eagles to Face Rwanda in Final AFCON Qualifier After Securing 2025 Spot The Super Eagles are set to face Rwanda in their final AFCON Qualifiers match, having already sealed their place in the 2025 tournament on Monday. Nigeria’s qualification was confirmed before their 1-1 draw against Benin Republic, courtesy of Libya’s victory over Rwanda. However, following some lackluster performances, head coach Augustine Eguavoen is expected to make changes to his lineup. Key adjustments could see Kelechi Iheanacho and Gabriel Osho relegated to the bench. In goal, Stanley Nwabali may be rested due to personal reasons, providing an opportunity for…
Former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain star Neymar previously named four Premier League clubs he admired, fueling speculation about a potential move to England. Currently playing for Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia, the Brazilian winger faces uncertainty after injury setbacks and reports suggesting his contract could be terminated. After joining Al-Hilal in 2023 as one of the highest-paid players in the Middle East, Neymar’s appearances have been limited. The 32-year-old, who had just recovered from a serious ACL injury, suffered a hamstring tear during his second game back. The setback could sideline him for up to six weeks, prompting Al-Hilal to reconsider…
Benin Republic head coach Gernot Rohr has expressed hope that Nigeria can assist his team’s chances of qualifying for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Rohr’s side played to a 1-1 draw against the Super Eagles on Thursday in Abidjan. Mohamed Tijani opened the scoring for Benin in the 16th minute, but Victor Osimhen equalized for Nigeria in the 81st minute. The draw leaves the Squirrels needing a strong result in their final qualifying match against Libya in Benghazi. To secure qualification, Benin must win or lose by a narrow margin, provided Nigeria defeats Rwanda in Uyo on Monday.…
Galatasaray is making significant progress in its bid to sign Nigerian forward Victor Osimhen on a permanent deal from Napoli. Turkish reports reveal that the club has secured a sponsor willing to cover 70% of the transfer fee, marking a major breakthrough in negotiations. According to Milliyet, Galatasaray is contemplating a slight adjustment to the proposed €75 million fee, reducing it to €70 million, factoring in previous payments. The club has also partnered with two prominent Turkish companies, one of which has committed to funding 30% of the transfer cost in exchange for a share in the deal. Napoli has…
Ruben Amorim has arrived at Old Trafford with a burning desire to restore Manchester United to its former glory and a firm belief that he is the right person to lead the team to success. The former Sporting CP coach was swiftly appointed as Erik ten Hag’s permanent successor just days after the Dutchman’s departure, signing a contract that will keep him at Manchester United until 2027. His tactical acumen and past achievements have already sparked excitement among fans, and now they can begin to understand the vision he plans to implement at the club. In his first interview as…
Super Eagles Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali Mourns the Loss of His Father Tragedy struck the Super Eagles camp as goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali lost his father on Friday morning, just hours after playing in Nigeria’s AFCON qualifier against Benin Republic in Abidjan on Thursday. The heartbreaking news comes after Nwabali’s stellar performances had recently captured the hearts of many Nigerians. Earlier this year, his heroics during the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) semi-final against South Africa, where he shone in a penalty shootout, earned him widespread acclaim. Following that memorable match, fans even visited his father’s house to celebrate his success. Nwabali…
Toni Kroos has hinted at the possibility of returning to Real Madrid in some capacity in the future. The legendary German midfielder retired at the end of last season, following a remarkable 10-year career at the Spanish club. Kroos’ final match for Madrid was a Champions League final victory over Borussia Dortmund at Wembley, marking his 465th and last appearance for the club. Since Germany’s exit from Euro 2024 in May, Kroos has not been involved in competitive football. However, during a recent episode of the podcast he co-hosts with his brother Felix, Einfach mal Luppen, Kroos left the door…
Swiss midfielder Silvan Wallner has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 22, citing his decision to “follow Jesus Christ” and observe the Sabbath as his primary reasons. Wallner, who began his professional career with FC Zurich in 2020, has made over 100 appearances, playing for clubs including Wil and BW Linz. He signed a two-year contract with BW Linz in September. In a statement released by Blau-Weiß Linz, Wallner shared: “I am a devout Christian and I read the Bible. I make my own decisions about my life. I wish to follow Jesus Christ, and as…
Mohamed Salah has shared the valuable advice he received from former Arsenal manager Arsène Wenger, which has had a lasting impact on his career. The Egyptian forward, who has become one of the Premier League’s most prolific players during his seven years at Liverpool, revealed a conversation with Wenger that left a lasting impression. With over 200 goals in 366 appearances for the Reds, Salah has solidified his place as one of the world’s top wingers, trailing only Bukayo Saka in assists so far this season. While Salah has played under iconic managers like Jürgen Klopp, it was Wenger’s words…
Nigeria’s Super Eagles secured their spot in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after Rwanda’s 1-0 defeat to Libya on Thursday. Libya triumphed over Rwanda at the Amahoro Stadium in Kigali, with Fahd Saad Mohamed scoring the decisive goal in the 84th minute to silence the home crowd. This result came just ahead of Nigeria’s upcoming AFCON qualifier against Benin Republic at the Stade de Houphouet Boigny in Abidjan. Nigeria leads Group D with 10 points from four games, while Benin follows with 6 points from the same number of matches. Rwanda now has 5 points from five games,…
Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez has reportedly been advised to sell star forward Vinicius Jr. despite his impressive performances on the field. The Brazilian winger has been a prominent figure in Madrid, but speculation about his future continues to swirl, especially following the controversy surrounding the club’s absence at the Ballon d’Or event, a decision reportedly made by Pérez. Reports that surfaced over the summer suggested that Vinicius could earn up to €1 billion over five years if he moved to Saudi Arabia, further fueling rumors about his departure. However, the 24-year-old has expressed his desire to “stay at Real…
Barcelona striker Robert Lewandowski has reportedly received an enticing offer from Saudi Pro League club Al-Hilal ahead of the January transfer window. According to El Nacional, Lewandowski’s representatives have not dismissed the possibility of a move to Saudi Arabia. With just 18 months remaining on his contract at Barcelona, the club is also facing decisions about the future of the Polish forward. Lewandowski has been in excellent form this season, scoring 19 goals in 17 appearances across all competitions under manager Hansi Flick.
Ballon d’Or winner Rodri has named Mohamed Salah as his toughest opponent in the Premier League, drawing a comparison to Lionel Messi. The Manchester City midfielder described Salah as the most challenging rival he has faced in the English top flight. Rodri, who became the first Spanish player to win the Ballon d’Or since Luis Suarez in 1960, spoke about his admiration for both Messi and Salah. Messi is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in football history, while Salah has been a standout performer in the Premier League for Liverpool. In an interview with The Mirror on…
Benin Republic coach Gernot Rohr has backed Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman to win the 2024 African Footballer of the Year award. The 71-year-old German praised Lookman as “a fantastic player” ahead of Benin’s 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Nigeria in Abidjan on Thursday. “For me, Lookman is the best in Africa to win the prestigious award,” Rohr told The Nation. “He’s an outstanding player.” He went on to add, “But I hope he won’t score against us, like he did in the last match in Uyo.” Rohr also commented on the upcoming qualifier, saying, “Rwanda is our…
Liverpool’s Egyptian forward Mohamed Salah has revealed that his favorite goal celebration is Cristiano Ronaldo’s iconic “siu.” Both players are considered among the most prolific goal-scorers in football history, with impressive careers filled with goals and accolades. Since joining Liverpool in 2017, Salah has become one of Europe’s deadliest finishers, scoring 221 goals and providing 99 assists in 366 appearances. This season, he continues to impress, with 10 goals and 10 assists in 17 matches across all competitions. Ronaldo, now 39, is football’s all-time top scorer, with over 900 goals for club and country. Despite his age, he remains in…