Nigerian striker Rinsola Babajide has voiced her opinion that the 2023 AFCON tournament was superior to the 2024 Euros after England’s lackluster draw against Slovenia. The Super Falcons star, currently with Tenerife, boldly asserted her preference for the Africa Cup of Nations over the European Championship following England’s goalless stalemate in their final Group C match. Although the draw secured England’s top spot in the group and progression to the next round, the match epitomized the underwhelming trend of this year’s Euros, disappointing many fans, including Babajide. “After witnessing England’s disappointing performance,” Babajide remarked, “it’s clear to me that the…
Author: Oluwaseun samuel
Fans have voiced their discontent regarding two England players following the Three Lions’ disappointing draw against Slovenia. On Tuesday night, England entered the RheinEnergieSTADION knowing a win would secure their spot in the round of 16 as Group C winners. However, Gareth Southgate’s squad delivered yet another subpar performance, failing to break down Slovenia’s resilient defense. Early in the second half, Manchester United youngster Kobbie Mainoo was substituted in as England searched for a breakthrough. Ultimately, the match concluded in a lackluster 0-0 draw, and England secured the group’s top spot thanks to Denmark and Serbia also drawing. Throughout the…
Oleksandr Usyk, the Pound for Pound King, has relinquished the IBF heavyweight title to two British opponents he previously defeated convincingly. Usyk opted to surrender the championship despite requesting an exception to retain it for a rematch with Tyson Fury. Consequently, their upcoming December 21 bout will no longer be for undisputed status. The accomplished Ukrainian held all four belts for just 38 days, following Lennox Lewis’ achievement 25 years ago. While fans had waited a quarter-century for another undisputed champion, they acknowledge Usyk’s standing even after his decision to relinquish the belt. Anthony Joshua, whom Usyk defeated twice convincingly,…
Euro 2024 has entered its advanced stages with ten national teams securing spots in the knockout stage. Six more teams are expected to join them before the week concludes. Germany became the first team to qualify, topping Group A with 7 points, followed by Switzerland. In Group D, Spain clinched first place with 9 points, followed by Italy. England managed to top Group C despite a single win, with Denmark in second and Slovenia hoping to advance as one of the best third-placed teams. Austria surprisingly topped Group D ahead of France and the Netherlands, with France securing second place…
According to PUNCH Sports Extra, Nigerian football fans are urging the Nigeria Football Federation to appoint Hervé Renard as the next coach of the Super Eagles. Renard, currently coaching the French women’s team, has announced his intention to step down after the Paris 2024 Olympics, leading to speculation about his next career move. Renard’s impressive track record in African football, having guided Zambia and Ivory Coast to Africa Cup of Nations triumphs, has garnered strong support among Nigerian fans. While NFF Director of Communications, Ademola Olajire, stated on Monday that he was not aware of any developments regarding Renard, fans…
Following Finidi George’s abrupt departure after just 47 days, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is actively seeking a new manager for the Super Eagles. Jose Peseiro, who had been considered a potential successor, has reportedly withdrawn from contention. Peseiro previously coached the Super Eagles to a silver medal at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations but has decided against returning due to strained relations with NFF leadership during his previous stint. According to Sport Brief, Peseiro’s decision stems from unresolved issues and failed contract negotiations with the NFF. His departure appears to be final, leaving the NFF to explore other…
Napoli are reportedly prepared to reduce Victor Osimhen’s asking price, according to DAILY POST. There is uncertainty surrounding the future of the Nigerian international, who currently has a €150 million release clause in his contract. This high valuation has deterred potential suitors. Calciomercato suggests that Napoli may now be willing to lower their initial asking price to €100 million. This adjustment aims to free up essential transfer funds for new manager Antonio Conte, who is reportedly eager to secure the signing of Belgian striker Romelu Lukaku this summer. Despite interest from clubs like Chelsea, Arsenal, and Paris Saint-Germain appearing lukewarm…
Chelsea will aim to secure a victory against Scottish side Celtic in a friendly match set to take place in the United States. CHE vs CEL: Preview, Date, and Kickoff Time for Club Friendly Fixture Stamford Bridge’s team enters the match on the back of an impressive finish to the previous season’s second phase, clinching 5 wins and 2 clean sheets in their final 6 matches. Celtic also enjoyed a strong finish to their season, claiming victory in all 5 of their last Scottish Premier League games. They capped off their campaign with a 1-0 win over rivals Rangers in…
Brazil forward Neymar Jr. expressed visible disappointment when Vinicius Junior was substituted during their 0-0 draw with Costa Rica in the 2024 Copa America opener on Monday night. Despite being one of the tournament favorites, Brazil failed to score despite dominating the game with 19 attempts on goal. Manager Dorival Junior attempted to change the game in the final 20 minutes by replacing Vinicius with the promising young talent Endrick. Neymar, Brazil’s all-time leading scorer, appeared perplexed and raised his arms in disbelief at this decision. The 32-year-old Neymar, who had suffered an unfortunate ACL injury during World Cup qualifying…
Arsenal has officially announced that goalkeeper Karl Hein has signed a new contract with the club. The Gunners shared the news via their website on Monday evening, stating, “We’re delighted to confirm Karl Hein has signed a new contract with the club.” Hein, who originally joined Arsenal in 2018 from Nõmme United and began as a scholar, turned professional the following year. The Estonia international made his first-team squad debut in a Europa League match and later spent the second half of the 2021/22 season on loan at Championship side Reading. “I’m delighted to extend my contract and continue my…
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.
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…