Sport Archives - Page 10 of 15

JUST IN: Super Eagles Legendary Goalkeeper Peter Rufai Dies At 61

July 3, 2025 by admin

LAGOS – The Super Eagles have paid tribute to former Nigerian goalkeeper and 1994 Africa Cup of Nations champion, Peter Rufai, following news of his death. In a statement released on Thursday via X, the national team described Rufai, fondly known as “Dodo Mayana,” as a towering figure in Nigerian football history whose contributions would never be forgotten. “Forever in our hearts, Dodo Mayana. We mourn the passing of legendary Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai, a giant of Nigerian football and a 1994 AFCON champion,” the statement read. Related News Six Nigerian topscorers in WAFCON history Osayi-Samuel denies father’s demand in failed Besiktas move Eagles star Chukwueze pledges to assist local talents The statement lauded Rufai’s legacy, particularly his heroics between the posts and his influence beyond the pitch. “Your legacy lives on between the sticks and beyond. Rest well, Peter Rufai,” it added. Rufai was part of the historic Nigerian squad that won the 1994 AFCON and qualified for the country’s first FIFA World Cup the same year.

Man City Fined £1m After Delayed Premier League Kick-Offs

June 19, 2025 by admin

Manchester City have been fined more than £1 million by the Premier League over delayed kick-offs in nine matches last season. Premier League officials announced on Thursday that Pep Guardiola’s side had breached rules around kick-off and restart times between October and February. The longest delay was two minutes and 24 seconds before the resumption of the Manchester derby at Old Trafford in December. The Premier League said City had accepted the breaches and apologised for the incidents. The fines total £1.08 million ($1.45 million). “Rules relating to kick-offs and restarts help ensure the organisation of the competition is set at the highest possible professional standard and provides certainty to fans and participating clubs,” a Premier League statement said. “It also ensures the broadcast of every Premier League match is kept to schedule.” It is not the first time City have been in trouble for their tardy kick-offs. The club were fined more than £2 million last year for 22 breaches of the kick-off and restart rules. Guardiola’s men finished third in the Premier League last season as their four-year reign as champions came to an end. City, who also suffered a shock FA Cup final defeat against Crystal Palace, are currently playing in the Club World Cup in the United States. AFP

Five Stars Missing At FIFA Club World Cup

June 12, 2025 by admin

FIFA’s inaugural expanded Club World Cup in the United States has one billion dollars of prize money on the line but will be missing some of the game’s star names. AFP Sport highlights five players who will not be lighting up stadiums across the United States once it gets underway this weekend: Mohamed Salah (Liverpool) Liverpool finished as English champions, but like Spain’s Barcelona and Italy’s Napoli, will not be at the Club World Cup, because of the convoluted qualification process. That means Egyptian winger Salah, who broke the Premier League record for goal involvements, with 29 strikes and 18 assists, misses out. After a tiring season in which he faded in the latter months Salah might not be too upset about having a summer off. The winger posted a photo of himself sunbathing by the beach on Instagram. However it will be a shame that African football icon Salah, captain Virgil van Dijk and others miss out on the chance of a potential rematch against their Champions League conquerors Paris Saint-Germain. Liverpool transfer target Florian Wirtz will also be absent, as his side Bayer Leverkusen did not qualify. Lamine Yamal (Barcelona) No player in world football this season has offered more excitement than Barcelona’s 17-year-old star Lamine Yamal. The Spain winger has been in sensational form for his club this season and is one of the candidates to win the Ballon d’Or. Yamal’s thrilling dribbling and penchant for the spectacular make him one of the biggest draws in world football at the moment. He is often compared to former Barcelona great Lionel Messi, but because of the Spanish champions’ absence, may have missed out on his only chance to face the Argentina star, who will be there with Inter Miami. Barcelona’s Raphinha, midfield maestro Pedri and veteran striker Robert Lewandowski are others who will be missed. Cristiano Ronaldo (Al Nassr) Messi will also not go up against his long-time rival Ronaldo in the US. The Portuguese striker, 40, was reported to be looking for a way to play in the tournament. FIFA president Gianni Infantino had suggested Ronaldo might move from Saudi Arabian side Al Nassr to a team who had reached the event, saying that “discussions” were being held over it. Five-time Ballon d’Or winner Ronaldo, who won the Nations League with Portugal last weekend, indicated after the game however he was set to stay at Al Nassr. “Some teams reached out to me,” the former Manchester United and Real Madrid star revealed last Saturday on the eve of the Nations League final. “Some made sense and others did not, but you can’t try and do everything. You can’t catch every ball.” Bukayo Saka (Arsenal) Champions League semi-finalists Arsenal are another team to miss out and after finishing the season trophyless, the Club World Cup would have been a chance to win some silverware. England international Saka’s only club trophy, excluding the FA Community Shield, was an FA Cup win with Arsenal in 2020. Mikel Arteta’s side showed this season they have improved to the point where they are in contention for major honours, including knocking out Real Madrid in the Champions League, but came up just short. For a player of his quality, who has spent six seasons playing regularly at the top level, Saka could do with expanding his medal collection. Arsenal will be disappointed to miss out on the prize money too, as they try to overhaul Liverpool and Manchester City, who have dominated the English game in recent seasons. Neymar (Santos) Brazilian icon Neymar struggled with injury at Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia and returned to Santos in January 2025, hoping to get fit and firing ahead of next summer’s World Cup. The 33-year-old forward, despite fading with age, is still one of the biggest names in the game and his absence is also a blow in a commercial sense. “Neymar, what can I say about him? He’s an outstanding player, who, for me, in my football cycle, is in the top three, with Cristiano and Messi,” said Brazil midfielder Casemiro. With organisers struggling to sell tickets, Neymar’s presence would have been a boon. AFP

JUST IN: Osimhen Rejects €75m Saudi Arabia’s Al Hilal Move

June 8, 2025 by admin

Super Eagles striker, Victor Osimhen, has rejected a €75m offer to join Saudi Arabia side, Al Hilal. According to a post by Fabrizio Romano on his X account on Sunday, “Despite agreement between club to club with Napoli for €75m fee, Osimhen says no to the Saudi Pro League club. Galatasaray will insist on signing him with the race now open again.” Recall that, throughout his loan spell at Galatasaray, Osimhen has been instrumental in the team’s success, scoring 37 goals in 41 appearances. His impressive performance has made him a fan favorite, and the club is optimistic about retaining him. Al-Hilal were inching towards signing Osimhen after increasing their offer to €75m to meet Napoli’s demands, and are looking to have the player’s medical soon, but with the latest development, Osimhen is yet to decide on his future. More details later….

Man Utd raises profit forecast between £180m, £190m

June 6, 2025 by admin

Manchester United on Friday raised its estimate for annual core profit to between £180 million ($244 million) and £190 million after a run to the final of the Europa League boosted club coffers. The adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortisation figures, which exclude items such as profits on player sales and finance costs, are up from an earlier projection of between £145 million and £160 million. Ruben Amorim’s side reached the Europa League final, where they lost 1-0 to Tottenham. But United endured their worst top-flight campaign in more than 50 years, finishing an embarrassing 15th in the table. Nevertheless, driven by the Europa League run, United’s total revenue increased 17.4 percent to £160.5 million in the quarter to March 31 from a year previously. Matchday revenue for the third quarter of fiscal 2025 was £44.5 million, an increase of more than 50 percent, due to more home games. Total operating costs were down 20.4 percent, sparked by a reduction in the wage bill due to United’s involvement in the Europa League instead of the Champions League, plus the January loan exits of Marcus Rashford and Antony. A redundancy programme affecting non-playing staff, which began last year under minority owner Jim Ratcliffe, also helped cut costs. Chief executive Omar Berrada said in a statement that there was a “clear expectation of improvement” next season. “We were proud to reach the final of the UEFA Europa League but ultimately we were disappointed to finish as runner-up in Bilbao,” he said. “We had a difficult season in the Premier League, which we all know fell below our standards and we have a clear expectation of improvement next season.” Amorim has started what is expected to be a significant squad rebuild at Old Trafford that will likely involve several high-profile arrivals and the exits of some key players. United have acted quickly during this month’s transfer window. They agreed the £62.5 million signing of Wolves forward Matheus Cunha and are reported to have a firm interest in Brentford winger Bryan Mbeumo. Punch

BREAKING: Alexander-Arnold Joins Real Madrid On Six-Year Deal

May 30, 2025 by admin

Real Madrid have officially announced the signing of England international Trent Alexander-Arnold from Liverpool on a six-year contract. The agreement, reached between both clubs, will see the 26-year-old defender remain with the Spanish side from June 1, 2025, to June 30, 2031. In an official statement released by the club on Frivia via its site, Real Madrid confirmed, “Real Madrid C.F. and Liverpool FC have reached an agreement for Trent Alexander-Arnold, who will be linked to our club for the next six seasons.” Alexander-Arnold arrives at the Santiago Bernabéu after a highly successful spell with Liverpool, where he won nine major trophies. His honours with the Reds include one UEFA Champions League, one FIFA Club World Cup, one UEFA Super Cup, two Premier League titles, one FA Cup, two EFL Cups, and one FA Community Shield. A product of Liverpool’s academy, Alexander-Arnold has spent his entire professional career at Anfield. He made his senior debut for the England national team in 2018 and has represented the Three Lions at the 2018 and 2022 FIFA World Cups, as well as the UEFA Euro 2024 tournament. On the individual front, he has been recognised globally for his performances. He was named in the FIFA FIFPro World 11 in 2020, included twice in the UEFA Champions League Team of the Season (2018/19 and 2021/22), and selected three times in the Premier League Team of the Season (2018/19, 2019/20, and 2021/22). In addition, he was voted the Premier League’s Young Player of the Season for 2019/20. Alexander-Arnold is expected to feature for Real Madrid in the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup, which will be held in the United States beginning June 14. Punch

I’m Prepared To Lead Madrid To Success, Says Xabi Alonso

May 26, 2025 by admin

New Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso declared on Monday that he possesses the energy and enthusiasm to deliver success befitting the Spanish giants as he was officially presented as Carlo Ancelotti’s successor. Alonso, who has signed a three-year contract until June 2028, will lead the team at the Club World Cup this summer, following Ancelotti’s departure to manage the Brazil national team. Madrid endured a trophyless season, losing their La Liga title to rivals Barcelona, who also defeated them in the Copa del Rey and Spanish Super Cup finals. The club’s European ambitions were also dashed by a heavy Champions League quarter-final defeat to Arsenal. “We have fantastic players and a team brimming with potential, capable of both a strong present and a promising future,” Alonso said at Real Madrid’s training ground. “That gives me every reason to come here full of energy and hope, aiming to bring out the best in every player and build a great team. “I am convinced that we can achieve great things, worthy of Real Madrid and all the European Cups and accomplishments amassed over so many years.” Alonso, a technically gifted central midfielder during his playing career, made 236 appearances for Madrid between 2009 and 2014, winning six trophies including the Champions League in his final season. That triumph marked Madrid’s 10th European Cup — La Décima — and the club has since added five more for a record 15 Champions League titles. The 43-year-old coach led Bayer Leverkusen to an unbeaten Bundesliga and German Cup double in the 2023-24 season, attracting attention from Europe’s elite clubs. Having been coached by managerial legends such as Ancelotti, Pep Guardiola, and José Mourinho, Alonso described the day as “special.” “It’s a day I will mark in my calendar for life,” he said. “Though I have been away for a few years, my connection with Madrid and the fans has never faded. “When I arrived at Valdebebas an hour and a half ago, it felt like a rebirth. I have the sense this is the start of a new era, as the president said.” ‘One of Our Own’ Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez welcomed Alonso back to the Spanish capital in an introductory speech. “This is a very special day for all who love Real Madrid. It marks the beginning of a new era filled with excitement and deep emotions,” Pérez said. “A coach has arrived who is among the best in the world and who understands what this badge and shirt represent. “Today, we welcome one of our own — Xabi Alonso. Welcome back home, Real Madrid.” Alonso, who also won the 2010 World Cup and two European Championships with Spain, began his coaching career after retiring from playing. Real Madrid’s Club World Cup campaign begins against Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal in Miami on 18 June, offering the first glimpse of Alonso’s project. AFP

Arsenal Edged Out Of Champions League After 2-1 Defeat In Their Second Leg Against PSG

May 7, 2025 by admin

Arsenal has been kicked out of Champions League semi-final after a 2-1 defeat in their second leg against Paris Saint-Germain. The Gunners started 1-0 down after being edged out at the Emirates in the first leg last week. They went into the match hoping for a comeback against the team many rate as the best in Europe at the moment – and made a strong start. PSG keeper Gianluigi Donnarumma was forced to make some remarkable early saves to deny Gabriel Martinelli and Martin Odegaard. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia hit the post for the hosts in the 17th minute, before Fabian Ruiz’s strike found the back of the net 11 minutes later. It came against the run of play and left the visitors with an even more daunting task – two goals just to get level on aggregate. Saka’s shot mid-way through the second half looked to be curling into the top corner but was also kept out by PSG’s Italian keeper. Moments later, Arsenal looked to have been dealt a killer blow when a VAR check showed the hand of Myles Lewis-Skelly had brushed the ball in the box. It appeared a harsh decision, but a strange run-up and weak penalty by Vitinha was kept out by David Raya. The reprieve lasted only a few moments for the Gunners – Thomas Partey failing to clear a loose ball and right-back Achraf Hakimi whipping a lovely finish into the corner in the 73rd minute. Home fans celebrated what seemed like an untouchable three-goal lead, but three minutes later, Bukayo Saka put Arsenal back in it when he knocked in a cross from Leandro Trossard. Saka then had a huge chance in the 80th minute to make it 2-2 and set up a grandstand finish, but blazed the ball over from close range with the goal at his mercy

JUST IN: Virgil Van Dijk Signs New Two-Year Deal With Liverpool

April 17, 2025 by admin

Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has signed a new two-year contract that has now put an end to the questions about his future after months of speculation. The 33-year-old Dutch centre-back had been inside the final season of his previous deal, which was due to expire in the summer of 2025. But he has now penned a seven years extension after arriving from Southampton in a $95m (£75m/€90m) switch. Van Dijk, who was named Liverpool captain when Jordan Henderson moved to Saudi Arabia in 2023, has played almost 300 games for the Reds. He has already won the Premier League and the Champions League. “There wasn’t any doubt in my head that this is the place to be for me and my family. I’m of Liverpool. Someone called me the other day an adopted Scouser – I’m really proud to hear these things, it gives me a great feeling.” “What the future will bring I have no idea at the moment. I can only tell you that discussions have been started up and we will see. I feel very good, physically, mentally and I am having fun. “Discussions are ongoing with the right people and when it’s time to make a decision or whatever, I think you guys [the media] will know it as well. But now full commitment and focus is on Liverpool and to be successful this season. So we will see.”

Football Mourns As Gabon Striker Boupendza Dies At 28

April 16, 2025 by admin

Gabon international striker Aaron Boupendza died on Wednesday at the age of 28 when he fell from the 11th floor of a building in China, according to the national football federation (Fegafoot). “The Gabonese international died following a fall from the 11th floor of his building in China, where he was playing for Zhejiang FC,” the federation said in a statement on X. “Aged 28, Boupendza leaves us with the memory of a great striker who left his mark on the CAN (Africa Cup of Nations) in Cameroon.” In 2022, the Panthers were eliminated in the last 16 of the AFCON by Burkina Faso. “Fegafoot and the entire Gabonese football family offer their sincere condolences to his biological family,” the federation added. Gabonese president-elect Brice Oligui Nguema also took to X to add his condolences. “It is with immense sadness that I learn of the tragic death of Aaron Boupendza, a talented centre-forward who brought honour to Gabonese football,” he posted. Broadcaster Gabon 24 said that while “the exact circumstances of this tragedy are still unclear,” an investigation is underway to establish the facts. Born in Moanda, Boupendza joined French side Bordeaux in 2016, spending most of his time on loan at other French clubs. In 2020 he signed for Turkish side Hatayspor, and was top scorer in the Super Lig in 2020–21 before moving on to Al Arabi, with whom he won the Qatar FA Cup, and Al Shabab in the Saudi Pro League. Spells in the USA with FC Cincinnati and Romania’s Rapid Bucharest followed ahead of his move to China in January. Gabon international striker Aaron Boupendza died on Wednesday at the age of 28 when he fell from the 11th floor of a building in China, according to the national football federation (Fegafoot). “The Gabonese international died following a fall from the 11th floor of his building in China, where he was playing for Zhejiang FC,” the federation said in a statement on X. “Aged 28, Boupendza leaves us with the memory of a great striker who left his mark on the CAN (Africa Cup of Nations) in Cameroon.” In 2022, the Panthers were eliminated in the last 16 of the AFCON by Burkina Faso. “Fegafoot and the entire Gabonese football family offer their sincere condolences to his biological family,” the federation added. Gabonese president-elect Brice Oligui Nguema also took to X to add his condolences. “It is with immense sadness that I learn of the tragic death of Aaron Boupendza, a talented centre-forward who brought honour to Gabonese football,” he posted. Broadcaster Gabon 24 said that while “the exact circumstances of this tragedy are still unclear,” an investigation is underway to establish the facts. Born in Moanda, Boupendza joined French side Bordeaux in 2016, spending most of his time on loan at other French clubs. In 2020 he signed for Turkish side Hatayspor, and was top scorer in the Super Lig in 2020–21 before moving on to Al Arabi, with whom he won the Qatar FA Cup, and Al Shabab in the Saudi Pro League. Spells in the USA with FC Cincinnati and Romania’s Rapid Bucharest followed ahead of his move to China in January.