At least six teams have secured spots in the Round of 16 at Euro 2024, including Italy and England, who recently advanced to the knockout stages. Italy secured their place with a dramatic 1-1 draw against Croatia, thanks to Mattia Zaccagni’s late equalizer. Luciano Spalletti’s team will finish second in Group B behind Spain, who topped the group with a 1-0 win over Albania. Italy’s next challenge is Switzerland in the knockout round. England also qualified early, benefiting from Spain’s victory. Germany, Spain, and Portugal have also confirmed their places in the Round of 16.
Author: Oluwaseun samuel
Inter Miami superstar Lionel Messi revealed that he believes he was divinely chosen for his footballing talent. Speaking to Argentina podcaster Juan Pablo Varsky, Messi expressed his conviction that his abilities were a gift from God. He emphasized that from a young age, he felt he was born with this talent and did everything possible to maximize it. Messi, who currently plays for Argentina at the Copa América in the US, acknowledged that despite his efforts, he considers his talent innate rather than something he achieved through his own actions. Starting his career at Newell’s Old Boys and joining Barcelona’s…
Croatia captain Luka Modric expressed his belief that football can be unforgiving during Euro 2024. Modric shared his thoughts with reporters following Croatia’s 1-1 draw against Italy on Monday. Despite initially giving Croatia the lead with a penalty that he himself won, Italy’s Mattia Zaccagni scored a last-minute equalizer, dashing Croatia’s hopes. The result ensured Italy’s progression to the Round of 16 of Euro 2024, leaving Modric reflective on the unpredictable nature of the sport. “Football can be very cruel,” Modric remarked. “I would love to play football forever, but I know that’s impossible. Someday, I will have to announce…
Who is Hungary striker Martin Adam? The powerful forward has become a social media meme following his Euro 2024 appearance as a substitute against Switzerland. Standing at 6ft 3in with a bushy ginger beard and a no-nonsense buzz-cut, the 29-year-old’s appearance contrasts sharply with that of a typical established international player, resembling more of a seasoned non-league player.
Real Madrid youngster Vinicius Tobias has announced his departure from the club via social media, with Vinicius Junior reacting to the news, as reported by Sportskeeda. The 20-year-old right-back is leaving Santiago Bernabeu as his contract expires at the end of June, having made only one senior appearance for the team. Tobias took to Instagram to express gratitude to the club and its staff, stating, “It was two rewarding years of learning, experience, and growth. To the technical staff, directors, and teammates, my heartfelt thanks. I’m grateful for the opportunity to wear this shirt.” Vinicius Junior, who trained alongside Tobias,…
Scotland captain Andy Robertson expressed remorse to the nation after their elimination from Euro 2024 on Sunday night. The Tartan Army entered their crucial group stage match against Hungary knowing that a victory was crucial for both teams’ hopes of advancing to the round of 16. Despite the possibility of qualification with a draw, Scotland’s subdued performance in Stuttgart, marked by only four shots, none on target until stoppage time, ended with Kevin Csoboth scoring Hungary’s decisive goal in the 100th minute, sealing their fate. Much scrutiny has been directed at manager Steve Clarke’s tactics, particularly his adherence to a…
Luke Shaw has returned to full England training a day before their crucial match against Slovenia in the final group stage of Euro 2024. The Three Lions, who have secured four points from their first two games, need a victory on Tuesday to secure the top spot in Group C. England’s performances in Euro 2024 have faced heavy criticism, particularly regarding head coach Gareth Southgate’s tactics and squad selection. After a disappointing 1-1 draw with Denmark, questions were raised about Southgate’s decision to include Shaw, who has been sidelined since February due to injury. However, Shaw’s reintroduction for England’s third…
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially unveiled the dates for the Total Energies Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025, set to be held in Morocco. The tournament is scheduled to run from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026, marking a return to a nation celebrated for its passionate football culture and excellent facilities. This announcement was made during a press conference held on June 17, 2024. Morocco’s selection underscores its proven track record in hosting major football competitions and its dedication to advancing the sport throughout Africa. The announcement has ignited enthusiasm among football enthusiasts across Africa,…
Manchester United have approached former star Ruud van Nistelrooy to join their coaching staff. Van Nistelrooy has been out of a coaching role for over a year since leaving his managerial position at PSV Eindhoven. Known for his coaching experience and progression at PSV, he is now being considered to join Erik ten Hag’s coaching team, as reported by Italian journalist and transfer expert Fabrizio Romano via the Sun. However, Burnley also seeks Van Nistelrooy as a potential replacement for Vincent Kompany, who recently moved to Bayern Munich. Van Nistelrooy gained recognition during his tenure at PSV for fostering talents…
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has chosen a new captain following Nacho Fernandez’s departure from the club as a free agent this summer. Nacho is expected to join newly-promoted Saudi Pro League team Al-Qadsia. According to COPE, Ancelotti has appointed veteran midfielder Luka Modric as the new captain of Real Madrid. Dani Carvajal and Lucas Vazquez will assume the roles of vice-captains. Despite losing key players like Nacho and the retired Toni Kroos, Real Madrid still boasts considerable experience within their squad. This marks the fourth consecutive year that Real Madrid will see a change in their captaincy, following the…
Chelsea are nearing the acquisition of Barcelona youngster Marc Guiu, as reported by Marca. The 18-year-old emerged in the first team during the 2023/2024 season, scoring two goals in seven appearances across all competitions. Despite interest from Bayern Munich, Chelsea have activated Guiu’s £5 million release clause. New Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has engaged in multiple discussions with Guiu and plans to integrate him into the first team for the upcoming season.
Adelowo Gbolagade, a player from Shooting Stars Sports Club, has been honored as the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) Player of the Season. He shared the news on X social media platform alongside a photo with his mother holding his award plaque. Expressing his gratitude, he stated, “I owe everything to God. His grace and mercy have been instrumental in my career. I’m deeply thankful to my teammates and the fans of Shooting Stars for their unwavering love, support, and encouragement. You all are amazing.”
Chelsea FC is reportedly set to activate Nico Williams’ €55m release clause, according to DiMarzio. The Athletic Bilbao winger has emerged as a prime target for the Blues, with Todd Boehly showing keen interest in the specifics of the clause. Nico Williams has enjoyed a standout season at Athletic Bilbao, contributing six goals and 12 assists. His impressive performances have garnered attention from several top European clubs, including Arsenal, Real Madrid, and Liverpool. Nevertheless, Chelsea appears determined to secure the services of the 21-year-old talent. Chelsea’s move to trigger Williams’ release clause underscores their ambition to bolster their attacking options.…
Manchester United’s management is infuriated with Erik Ten Hag for divulging details of their Ibiza meeting. Several weeks ago, Ten Hag’s position was in jeopardy following the team’s disappointing performance last season. However, after internal deliberations, the club’s owners decided to retain the Dutch manager. While on vacation, Ten Hag was surprised by a visit from club executives at his door, urging him to continue as manager. The owners of Manchester United are reportedly displeased that Ten Hag discussed on Dutch television last week the private meeting in Ibiza where they informed him of their decision to retain him as…
Arsenal is reportedly eyeing a major transfer coup by targeting Bayern Munich’s versatile midfielder Joshua Kimmich. According to Sky Germany journalist Florian Plettenberg, the North London club is keen on securing the services of the 29-year-old German international this summer. Joshua Kimmich has earned acclaim as one of Europe’s most complete midfielders, renowned for his exceptional passing, vision, and defensive abilities. His capability to excel in both midfield and at right-back adds a valuable dimension to any squad. Currently focused on representing Germany at the European Championships, Kimmich’s club future has sparked intense speculation. Arsenal’s interest in Kimmich aligns with…
Chelsea fans are astounded by Cole Palmer’s weekly earnings since joining Stamford Bridge. Following Clearlake Capital and Todd Boehly’s acquisition of the club two years ago, Chelsea has engaged in some questionable transfer dealings, surpassing £1 billion in spending on transfers and lavish contracts. While many signings have underperformed, Cole Palmer has been a standout exception. The 22-year-old moved from Manchester City to Chelsea last summer and excelled in his debut season in London, scoring 22 goals and providing 11 assists in 34 league appearances in the 2023-24 season. He capped off the year by winning the Premier League Young…
Born on May 13, 1993, Romelu Lukaku is a professional footballer currently on loan at Roma from Chelsea, and a key player for the Belgium national team. Despite facing criticism, Lukaku has achieved outstanding feats that often go unnoticed. Here are seven impressive football records set by Romelu Lukaku: 1. Lukaku is the first black player to score double-digit goals in eleven consecutive seasons across Europe’s top five leagues, starting from the 2012-2013 EPL season with West Bromwich Albion and continuing through stints at Everton, Manchester United, Inter Milan, Chelsea, and AS Roma. 2. He is Belgium’s all-time top scorer…
Portugal’s captain Cristiano Ronaldo responded to his team’s Euro 2024 victory over Turkey, expressing pride in Portugal as they secured a 3-0 win on Saturday. The Al Nassr forward also conveyed his joy as Portugal clinched the top spot in Group F with 6 points from two matches. Goals from Bernardo Silva, an own goal by Samet Akaydin, and Bruno Fernandes secured the victory for Portugal. Ronaldo took to Instagram to share his reaction, stating, “In a hurry and first place guaranteed. Proud of this team. We are Portugal.” Portugal’s upcoming final group match will be against Georgia.
Antonio Conte, the new Napoli manager, is keen to arrange a face-to-face meeting with Victor Osimhen to discuss his future amidst uncertainty about a potential departure from the club. Conte aims to persuade the Super Eagles striker to stay with Napoli, especially since no club is currently willing to meet his €130m release clause. Meanwhile, Chelsea and Manchester United have redirected their attention to younger forwards such as Samuel Omorodion and Joshua Zirkzee. Arsenal, on the other hand, reportedly initiated talks with Viktor Gyökeres. PSG has not yet submitted a bid, leaving Al Ahli and Al Hilal as the only…
At least three teams have secured their places in the Round of 16 at Euro 2024. Portugal secured their spot by defeating Turkey 3-0 on Saturday. Bernardo Silva opened the scoring in the 21st minute, followed by an own goal from Samet Akaydin seven minutes later. Cristiano Ronaldo assisted Bruno Fernandes for Portugal’s third goal. With this victory, Portugal joins Spain and Germany in the next round, all three teams having collected the maximum six points from two matches.