Sport

12May By MosesianNo Comments

Sport

UFC star, Conor McGregor Beats Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo to be Named World’s Richest Athlete

Conor McGregor has been ranked as Forbes' highest-paid athlete, beating out competition from the likes of Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and Lewis Hamilton to claim the number one spot. The majority of his revenue has come from ventures which include an array of endorsement deals. According to Forbes, the Irish UFC star made a total of $180 million over the last 12 months. Most of the money came from his recent sale of his majority stake in whiskey brand Proper No. Twelve to Proximo Spirits for $150 million McGregors also made money from product endorsements after adding DraftKings, the video game Dystopia: Contest of Heroes and the lifestyle brand Roots of Fight to his portfolio that has included campaigns with Burger King in the past, and a lucrative deal to wear Monster En...

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12May By MosesianNo Comments

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Champions League final between Manchester City and Chelsea moved to Portugal from Turkey

The Champions League final between Chelsea and Manchester City will now be played in Portugal after the UK government and UEFA could not reach an agreement over quarantine exemptions for more than 2,000 VIPs, staff, and media for the match to be played at Wembley. The all-English final between the Premier League clubs was originally scheduled for the Ataturk Stadium in Istanbul on May 29, but the devastating Covid outbreak in Turkey forced UEFA to look at alternative venues. The Wembley stadium in England was considered as one of the possible venues, but the UK government has placed the country on its red list for travel, and banned English fans from going. According to Sports Mail, the 50,000-capacity Estadio do Dragao in Porto has now been lined up as the venue for the final...

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12May By MosesianNo Comments

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Brown Assist as Celtic Beat St Johnstone in Final Home Game

Scott Brown produced an impressive assist as Celtic beat a Covid-hit St Johnstone 4-0 in his final home match. Brown's long diagonal ball set up Odsonne Edouard to double Celtic's lead in the 24th minute. David Turnbull had netted the opener 60 seconds earlier after loan goalkeeper Zdenek Zlamal had been controversially penalised for picking up a passback. Zlamal had been pitched in for an unexpected Saints debut with the visitors without more players amid what manager Callum Davidson termed an ongoing issue with Covid. The Hearts goalkeeper was also beaten by Kristoffer Ajer's deflected strike and Karamoko Dembele's first goal for Celtic. Aberdeen-bound Brown arrived to a welcoming party of fans outside the main entrance and there were several banners in his honour in t...

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12May By MosesianNo Comments

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Rangers Close in on Invincible Season with Livi Win

Rangers' quest for an Invincible league campaign will go down to the final day of the season after a 3-0 win at Livingston saw them clear the penultimate hurdle. James Tavernier tucked home his 19th goal of the season from the penalty spot before Ryan Kent and Ianis Hagi sealed a 3-0 win at the Tony Macaroni Arena. The new kings of Scotland have survived 37 fixtures without defeat so far, racking up 99 points in the process. They also notched their 25th shut-out of an astonishing league season, setting a new benchmark as they beat the Scottish clean-sheet record for a 38-game schedule set by Celtic back in 2014/15. They now need only a draw to complete a blemish-free season and also smash through the century barrier when they host Aberdeen ahead of Saturday's long-awaited trop...

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12May By MosesianNo Comments

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Jorginho Howler Hands Arsenal Win at Chelsea

Emile Smith Rowe denied Chelsea the chance to cement their top-four status as he took advantage of Jorginho's howler to give Arsenal a 1-0 win at Stamford Bridge. The Blues would have all-but secured their Champions League qualification with a victory which would have taken them 10 points clear of Liverpool, who have four games left to play, but after making seven changes ahead of Saturday's FA Cup final, struggled to create clear-cut chances. Kai Havertz should have put them ahead 10 minutes in when he intercepted Gabriel's loose pass for Pablo Mari and raced clean through, but then fired over Bernd Leno's bar with only his compatriot to beat. Moments later Jorginho's equally poor back-pass was kept out by Kepa Arrizabalaga at full stretch, but Smith Rowe was on hand to bundle h...

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12May By MosesianNo Comments

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Hibernian Secure Third with Narrow Aberdeen Win

Christian Doidge's first-half goal ensured Hibernian will finish the Scottish Premiership season in third place after they beat Aberdeen 1-0. Doidge's powerful strike on the half-volley just before the interval at Pittodrie means Aberdeen can no longer catch their Edinburgh rivals, who also have the Scottish Cup final to look forward to. Welshman Doidge's goal was the highlight of a first half in which both sides played neat football but the goalkeepers were rarely tested. The home side could have been in front after 39 minutes as Ryan Hedges' mis-kick presented Callum Hendry with an excellent opportunity 15 yards out, but the on-loan St Johnstone striker fluffed his lines and sent his effort well over the crossbar. His profligacy was quickly punished, as Hibs w...

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12May By Ajiboye IfeoluwaNo Comments

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Mikel and Africans who missed major tournaments like Van Dijk

The Dutch captain has ruled himself out of the upcoming European tournament and Goal takes a look at African stars who also missed major tournaments Mikel was not part of Nigeria’s 2010 World Cup squad in South Africa after suffering a knee injury before the start of the tournament. The midfielder was at the peak of his career at the time, playing week-in-week-out with Premier League giants Chelsea and his absence was a big blow to the Super Eagles. Nigeria managed to reach the Round of 16 of the tournament and fans felt the West African side could have done better with the addition of Mikel. The midfielder had 91 caps before he finally retired from international duty in 2019 after helping the country clinch a number of trophies, including the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations tit...

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12May By Ajiboye IfeoluwaNo Comments

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Vandereycken wants Genk star to take ‘a step higher’ to Premier League or Bundesliga

The Nigeria international has proven his worth in the Belgian top-flight and has been advised to embrace a bigger challenge Former Belgium coach Rene Vandereycken has encouraged Paul Onuachu to take a step higher by signing for a Premier League or Bundesliga club. The 26-year-old has been with Belgian side Genk since the summer of 2019 after teaming up with the club from Danish side FC Midtjylland. The Nigeria international starred for the Wolves for seven years, scoring more than 50 league goals, and again proved his worth with the Blue and White.

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12May By Ajiboye IfeoluwaNo Comments

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Manchester United and Ajax target Kamaldeen named in Ghana squad for Morocco and Cote d’Ivoire friendlies

The Nordsjaelland winger features in a 30-man squad for matches against the Atlas Lions and the Elephants in June Manchester United and Ajax target Kamaldeen Sulemana and Leicester City centre-back Daniel Amartey are back in Ghana’s squad ahead of the team’s upcoming friendly fixtures against Morocco and Cote d’Ivoire. The two players are among the most conspicuous returnees as Black Stars head coach CK Akonnor announced a 30-man roster for the upcoming matches. Ghana are set to face Morrocco away in Rabat on June 8 before hosting Cote d’Ivoire four days later in Cape Coast.

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12May By Ajiboye IfeoluwaNo Comments

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Marcelo dropped from Real Madrid squad after argument with Zidane

The Brazilian has grown increasingly frustrated with his manager after being relegated to a back-up role behind Ferland Mendy Real Madrid defender Marcelo was left off the squad list for Thursday's match against Granada due to an argument with manager Zinedine Zidane, Goal can confirm. With Ferland Mendy out for the remainder of the season, Marcelo appeared to be in line to start the crucial match at the Nuevo Estadio de Los Carmenes. Instead, the Brazilian, who turned 33 on Wednesday, saw himself axed entirely when Madrid announced their matchday squad on Wednesday.

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12May By Ajiboye IfeoluwaNo Comments

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Bikini clad female fans rub oil on Tyson Fury’s body as he vacations in Miami

WBC, Lineal and Ring Magazine Heavyweight boxing champion, Tyson Fury was pictured allowing some female fans to rub oil on his body during a break at the Fountain Blue Resort, Miami, as he enjoyed some time in the sun ahead of his summer heavyweight clash against Anthony Joshua   The Manchester born fighter has been in Las Vegas to train with SugarHill Steward as the 32-year-old prepares to take on Joshua for a unifying heavyweight bout but it's clear Fury has been enjoying some female attention.   The Gypsy King as he is fondly called was seen speaking to two bikini-clad women before one of them took a bottle of suntan oil and rubbed it on the 6ft 9in boxer’s legs while Fury had a cheeky grin across his face.   Upon publication of the i...

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12May By Ajiboye IfeoluwaNo Comments

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Ghana reacts as Akonnor announce 30-man squad for Morocco and Cote d’Ivoire friendlies

Many have taken to social media to share their thoughts on the squad which is set to face the Atlas Lions and The Elephants There were certainly a lot of questions as Ghana head coach CK Akonnor announced his squad for upcoming friendly matches against Morocco and Cote d’Ivoire. The 30-man Black Stars squad features Ajax and Manchester United target Kamaldeen Sulemana and while Leicester City centre-back makes a return for the first time since 2018. Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey, Ajax midfielder Mohammed Kudus, Crystal Palace striker Jordan Ayew and Swansea City forward Andre Ayew have all been recalled.

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12May By Ajiboye IfeoluwaNo Comments

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UEFA confirms Lahoz as referee for Champions League final between Chelsea and Man City

The Spaniard has clashed with his compatriot Pep Guardiola on multiple occasions in the competition UEFA has announced that Antonio Miguel Mateu Lahoz will referee the Champions League final between Manchester City and Chelsea. The 44-year-old Spaniard will take charge of his first Champions League final, having officiated six games in the competition this season. UEFA also announced that Clement Turpin will referee the Europa League final between Villarreal and Manchester United.

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12May By MosesianNo Comments

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UEFA Open Disciplinary Investigation against Real Madrid, Barcelona and Juventus

UEFA has opened disciplinary proceedings against Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Juventus for their involvement with the European Super League project. The three clubs are the only teams of the original 12 Super League clubs who signed up for the breakaway competition not to have formally renounced the competition and renewed their commitments to UEFA. The trio could be expelled from the Champions League for two years as a consequence. UEFA released a statement on Wednesday which read: 'In accordance with Article 31(4) of the UEFA Disciplinary Regulations, UEFA Ethics, and Disciplinary Inspectors have today been appointed to conduct a disciplinary investigation regarding a potential violation of UEFA's legal framework by Real Madrid CF, FC Barcelona and Juventus FC in connection w...

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12May By Ajiboye IfeoluwaNo Comments

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James Balagizi: Liverpool wonderkid who left Man City behind

The 17-year-old has starred for the Reds in their run to the FA Youth Cup semi-finals, with his displays likely to have caught Jurgen Klopp's eye He may have grown up in the shadow of the Etihad Stadium, but James Balagizi’s eyes are firmly fixed on a career at Anfield. And Liverpool’s loss could well be Manchester City’s gain, in that regard. At 17, the gifted attacking midfielder already has plenty going for him. Tall and strong, creative and classy, hopes are growing that the Reds may have found another player capable of following the likes of Trent Alexander-Arnold and Curtis Jones from the academy into Jurgen Klopp’s first-team setup.

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12May By Ajiboye IfeoluwaNo Comments

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We have parked our rivalry’ – Rangers boss Gerrard reveals ‘secret’ phone calls with Sir Alex Ferguson

The Liverpool legend says he has been in regular contact with the former Manchester United manager during his time at Ibrox Rangers boss Steven Gerrard has revealed he has held "secret" phone calls with Sir Alex Ferguson, admitting that "since I retired we have parked our rivalry up". For the best part of 15 years, Gerrard and Ferguson were in direct competition in the Premier League as the former became Liverpool's club captain and the latter sought to knock the Reds off their perch and turn Manchester United into the most successful club in England. Ferguson succeeded before retiring in 2013, while Gerrard left Liverpool two years later as an Anfield icon and moved into management after a brief stint in MLS with LA Galaxy. 09048258930

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12May By MosesianNo Comments

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Chelsea Loanee, Fikayo Tomori Breaks Cristiano Ronaldo’s Serie A Record to Make History against Juventus 

Chelsea loanee, Fikayo Tomori has set a new Serie A record for himself after he scored for AC Milan in their 3 - 0 victory against Juventus at the weekend. The England defender nodded in a third goal as Stefano Pioli's side clinched all three points over Juventus, placing a major dent in their hopes of qualifying for next season's Champions League. The on-loan Chelsea defender, 23, jumped a staggering eight feet and seven inches inside the Allianz Stadium to surpass Ronaldo's record, set last season against Sampdoria. Ronaldo achieved the 'greatest leap' crown when he soared up to 8ft 5inches against Sampdoria at the Luigi Ferraris Stadium in 2019-20. Tomori's goal against Juventus also saw him become the first Englishman since David Beckham to score for the Rossoneri. A...

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12May By Ajiboye IfeoluwaNo Comments

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‘I want to play with Ronaldo’ – Neymar eager to link up with Juventus star amid PSG rumours

The Brazilian says he would like to add the Portuguese star to his list of illustrious team-mates at some point in the future Neymar has revealed that he wants to play with Cristiano Ronaldo, who has been strongly linked with a move to Paris Saint-Germain in recent months. PSG paid a world-record fee of €222 million (£190m/$269m) to sign Neymar in 2017 from Barcelona, where he had established himself among the best players of his generation. The Brazilian shone alongside the likes of Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez at Camp Nou, and has also thrived in a world-class squad at Parc des Princes, but still harbours ambitions to play alongside a five-time Ballon d'Or winner currently plying his trade in Italy with Juventus.

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12May By Ajiboye IfeoluwaNo Comments

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Zidane ready to bet big on Real Madrid youngster compared to Sergio Ramos

Los Blancos worked hard to sign the young defender from Mallorca in 2019, and he is now set to step up to the first team With Real Madrid enduring an injury crisis in defence, manager Zinedine Zidane is preparing to gamble on youngster Pablo Ramon, who has impressed for Castilla, the Liga giants' reserve team. The losses of Sergio Ramos, Raphael Varane, Nacho and Ferland Mendy have left Real with shoestring options at the back - which could provide an opportunity for Mallorca-born Ramon, a favourite player of Blancos legend Raul, who is currently Castilla manager. Ramon was first called into the Real first team for the Liga clash with Getafe last month and was an unused substitute in a goalless draw - but could make his senior debut in the final three games of the league season....

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12May By Ajiboye IfeoluwaNo Comments

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Cote d’Ivoire and Crystal Palace star Zaha reveals inspiration

The 28-year-old disclosed that he looks up to his kids as they help him scale new heights Cote d’Ivoire and Crystal Palace star Wilfried Zaha has admitted taking inspiration from his kids. Following his inability to tie down a regular place at Manchester United under Alex Fergusson, the 28-year-old was loaned twice to Crystal Palace and then made the move permanent when he signed a five-and-a-half-year contract for an undisclosed fee on February 2, 2015. Since then, he has been a constant figure in the Palace squad with his impressive performances earning him the club’s Player of the Year prize on three occasions. Zaha, who is known for her audacious displays of skill and finishing, accentuated the importance of family to his professional career – claiming his kids inspire hi...

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12May By Ajiboye IfeoluwaNo Comments

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Van Dijk rules himself out of Euro 2020 as Netherlands defender targets pre-season Liverpool comeback

The Dutch captain says he is "at peace" with his decision as he looks to return from a serious knee injury in time for the start of next season Virgil van Dijk has ruled himself out of this summer's European Championship, and is instead targeting a return to club action with Liverpool in time for the 2021-22 campaign. The Netherlands captain has been sidelined since October after suffering a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament in a challenge with Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford. The 29-year-old has, however, been progressing well in his rehabilitation, and has been pictured working with a ball at Liverpool's Kirkby training ground, as well as posting videos of himself running outside.

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12May By Ajiboye IfeoluwaNo Comments

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Ismaila Sarr: Senegal striker scoops Watford awards

The 23-year-old walked home with two prizes during the Hornets’ end-of-the-season awards held on Tuesday evening Ismaila Sarr has been announced as Watford’s Player of the Season and Players’ Player of the Season. In his second season at the Vicarage Road, the Senegal international played a crucial role in the Hornets’ return to the English Premier League. For the Player of the Season accolade, he beat Kiko Femenia and Francisco Sierralta to second and third place respectively.

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12May By Ajiboye IfeoluwaNo Comments

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Camavinga agent claims there have been ‘a lot of offers from top clubs’ for Rennes star

The midfielder has been linked with several leading sides, and his representative says he will have his pick of the best European clubs Eduardo Camavinga's agent, Jonathan Barnett, says they have had "a lot of offers from top clubs" for the Rennes star. The midfielder, who finished second in Goal's NXGN list of the best young footballers in 2021, has been linked with several top European sides including Bayern Munich and Real Madrid. Barnett says the 18-year-old, who already has three senior international caps for France, is swimming in offers and will have his pick of clubs this summer, should he decide to move on.

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12May By MosesianNo Comments

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Barcelona’s title Hopes are Over – Busquets Reacts to 3-3 Draw with Levante

  Barcelona midfielder, Sergio Busquets, has admitted that their hopes of winning the title are over, following the 3-3 draw at Levante on Tuesday night. Ronald Koeman’s men led 2-0 and 3-2, before conceding a late equaliser. Barca have now picked up just five points from their last four games. In addition to winning their two fixtures left, Barcelona need Atletico Madrid to drop at least five points from their last three matches and Real Madrid to lose one or draw two of their last three games. Busquets told Movistar: “We don’t have much of a chance now. It will depend on our rivals, but this is our own fault, [bad] decisions, a lack of concentration. We concede goals too easily. “We don’t feel good because it was always going to be difficult, but we wanted to p...

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12May By MosesianNo Comments

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LaLiga: Why Barcelona Drew 3-3 With Levante – Koeman

  Barcelona manager, Ronald Koeman, has claimed their intensity dropped and his team switched off defensively in the second half of their 3-3 draw with Levante on Tuesday night. Lionel Messi gave Barca the lead, before Pedri doubled their advantage before the break. However, quick-fire goals from Gonzalo Melero and Jose Luis Morales in the second half, saw Levante level for the first time in the game. The Catalans went in front again through Ousmane Dembele and looked to have gone provisionally top of the table. But they conceded again with seven minutes left. “Analysing the game, in the first half we were good, there was a good rhythm with the ball, good intensity. We created chances to score and we went in 2-0 up. “At the start of the second half, we lost the b...

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12May By MosesianNo Comments

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Neymar Opens up on Playing with Cristiano Ronaldo

  Paris Saint-Germain forward, Neymar, has revealed his plans to play Juventus star, Cristiano Ronaldo, in the future. Neymar, having spent a considerable portion at PSG trying to orchestrate a way to play with Barcelona captain Lionel Messi again, now wants to play alongside Ronaldo at the French Ligue 1 champions. Ronaldo’s future at Juventus is currently unclear, and his stay in Turin could end this summer, particularly if the Old Lady failed to qualify for next season’s UEFA Champions League. “I want to play with Cristiano Ronaldo,” Neymar told GQ France. “I have already played with great players like Messi and [Kylian] Mbappe, but I haven’t played with Cristiano Ronaldo yet.” Neymar added, “I want to win the World Cup. “This has always been my biggest dream,...

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12May By MosesianNo Comments

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EPL: Thomas Tuchel Confirms Players that will miss Chelsea vs Arsenal Game

  Chelsea boss, Thomas Tuchel, has confirmed the players expected to miss his side’s Premier League clash against Arsenal on Wednesday night. Tuchel said Mateo Kovacic and Andreas Christensen remain sidelined through injury and will miss Chelsea’s home Premier League tie against Arsenal at Stamford Bridge. Tuchel said this on Tuesday during his pre-match press conference. Chelsea head to the game after beating Manchester City 2-1 in their last Premier League fixture. “He [Kovacic] is not ready for tomorrow [Chelsea vs Arsenal game], we have to postpone it to Wembley. “His personal race is on to make it to the squad for Wembley.” On Christensen, Tuchel added, “We hope that he can come back in one of the two Leicester games. “It will also be a tough one, but ...

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12May By MosesianNo Comments

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Chelsea vs Arsenal: Abramovich takes Decision on Tuchel’s Future at Stamford Bridge

  Chelsea owner, Roman Abramovich, will approve a new contract for manager Thomas Tuchel at the end of this season, Sportsmail reports. It will be reward for his impressive first months at Stamford Bridge. Tuchel had led the Blues to the Champions League and FA Cup finals, as well as putting them in a strong position to finish in the Premier League’s top four. There are clauses in the 18-month contract Tuchel signed in January, which will trigger an extension if he meets certain targets. But Chelsea want to tie him down to a new two-year deal with the option for a third year. Tuchel is keen to sign the new deal, will also come with an increase on his current £7million salary. The impetus for the new contract talks has come from the club, however, with the German ...

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12May By MosesianNo Comments

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Chelsea vs Arsenal: Why I Lied to Aubameyang – Tuchel

  Chelsea manager, Thomas Tuchel, has revealed he used to lie to Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang about team meetings at Borussia Dortmund, to help the striker with his timekeeping. Tuchel joined Dortmund in 2015 and worked with Aubameyang for two years. They won the DFB-Pokal together in 2017, with the Gabon international also topping the Bundesliga goal-scoring charts. Aubameyang was dropped for the north London derby win over Tottenham Hotspur in March, having reported late to Arsenal’s training ground before the match. Ahead of their reunion on Wednesday when Arsenal visit Stamford Bridge, Tuchel claimed the 31-year-old had issues with punctuality. “That’s not his strength, to be absolutely on time. “He was pretty much the only one so when we wanted him to be on ...

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12May By MosesianNo Comments

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Cristiano Ronaldo Buys £1.4m Customized Supercar after Skipping Juventus Training to visit Ferrari Garage

Cristiano Ronaldo skipped training with his Juventus mates to visit Ferrari's factory in Maranello and then treated himself to a £1.4m Ferrari super car according to reports. Ronaldo, 36, decided to give himself Monday off just a day after the crushing 3-0 defeat against AC Milan that leaves their Champions League dreams in tatters as they sit in fifth spot with just three games to go. And instead of taking part in a recovery session ahead of Wednesday's away trip to Sassuolo, Ronaldo showed up at Maranello home of Ferrari's F1 headquarters in Italy. He was accompanied by club chairman Andrea Agnelli and the 45-year-old's cousin John Elkann, who is the CEO of Exor and Ferrari. Whilst at Ferrari's HQ, Ronaldo posed for a photo with F1 drivers Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz...

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12May By MosesianNo Comments

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Confusion Grips Sports Sector as COVID-19 Restrictions Return

The Nigerian sports sector has been thrown into confusion following the Federal Government’s announcement of new COVID-19 restrictions on Monday, The PUNCH reports. The FG re-introduced a nationwide 12am to 4am curfew as part of efforts to curtail further spread of COVID-19, while mass gatherings in public spaces have been restricted to 50 people at any given time. A member of the Presidential Steering Committee on COVID-19, Dr Mukhtar Mohammed, added that “indoor recreational facilities and gyms remained closed until June 11, when the situation will be reviewed while non-contact outdoor sports such as golf, polo and tennis among others are not affected.” Last year, sporting activities were grounded to a halt globally during the lockdown occasioned by COVID-19, with sports in ...

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12May By MosesianNo Comments

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I Was Written Off but never Gave up – Iheanacho

Leicester City’s in-form striker, Kelechi Iheanacho, says he never lost faith in himself while going through a rough patch in his career, adding that he was confident that he would return to form. Iheanacho had his worst ever scoring run of his professional career in 2019, failing to score in over 365 days, with trio Jamie Vardy, Ayoze Perez and James Maddison all ahead of him in the pecking order. The 24-year-old’s lack of goals at Leicester during this period also saw him lose his place in the Super Eagles, and was left out of the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations. However, the former Manchester City striker has returned to form for The Foxes and was named March’s Premier League Player of The Month and is on course for a double award for April. Speaking with BBC Sport on his res...

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12May By MosesianNo Comments

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Heartland, Katsina Clash Over Nnoshiri

Nigeria Professional Football League sides Heartland FC and Katsina United are both laying claim to the ownership of Samuel Nnoshiri, who left the Owerri-based side during the NPFL mid-season break. Heartland had raised the alarm that Nnoshiri, who now plays for Katsina United, was still the club’s property. The club had in a statement signed by its media officer, Solomon Onu, on Monday, alleged that Katsina illegally acquired the services of Nnoshiri. Nnoshiri made his debut for Katsina on Sunday, scoring in their 5-1 drubbing of Wikki Tourists. Speaking with our correspondent on Tuesday, the media officer of Katsina United, Nuhu Shaiskawa, said they followed all legal process in the acquisition of Nnoshiri. “Samuel Nnoshiri already terminated his contract with Heartlan...

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12May By MosesianNo Comments

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NWFL: Pelican, Angels Survive, Ibom, Dreamstar Relegated

Pelican Stars and Abia Angels both survived relegation, while Ibom Angels and Dreamstar Ladies went down as the 2020/21 Nigeria Women Football League play-offs came to an end at the University of Benin Sports Complex, Benin City on Tuesday. Former champions Pelican Stars, Abia Angels, Ibom Angels and DreamStar Ladies were the four teams involved in the play-offs, which were played on a round-robin basis from May 7 to 11. Heading into the final game, Calabar-based Pelican Stars needed a draw against Ibom Angels to ensure topflight safety, having drawn 1-1 with Abia Angels, before beating Dreamstar 4-2 in their first and second fixtures respectively. Pelican Stars finished tops with five points after the 0-0 stalemate against Ibom Angels in their last play-off game Tuesday. W...

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12May By MosesianNo Comments

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Ex-Ronaldo’s Club Sporting Lisbon Clinch First Portuguese Title

Sporting Lisbon were crowned champions of Portugal for the first in almost two decades on Tuesday. A 1-0 win over Boavista at their Jose Alvalade Stadium clinched Sporting’s 19th title with the last coming back in 2002. Paulinho’s 36th minute goal put ‘the Lions’ out of reach of outgoing champions Porto at a game played behind closed doors due to the coronavirus pandemic. The Lisbon side’s celebrations were delayed 24 hours after Porto kept their chances alive, at least for 24 hours, with a 5-1 rout of lowly Farense on Monday. They took the title in style, with an eight point cushion over the ‘Dragons’ from the north of the country, and boasting an unbeaten record. Despite calls by local authorities to respect social distancing restrictions thousands of fans had begun to...

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12May By MosesianNo Comments

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La Liga: Messi Scores as Barca, Levante Draw

Lionel Messi scored a brilliant volley but Barcelona’s title hopes could be over, with a 3-3 draw away at Levante on Tuesday giving Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid the chance to pull away at the top of La Liga. Another slip could prove decisive given Atletico will move four points clear of Barca with two games left if they can win away at Real Sociedad on Wednesday. Real Madrid will edge two points ahead of Ronald Koeman’s side if they win away on Thursday at Granada. There are certainly no guarantees in what has been a frenetic and thrilling title race in recent weeks, with all of Spain’s four contenders stumbling down the final stretch. But with only two games left now and potentially two teams to catch, Barcelona’s chances of taking the title off Real Madrid this season wou...

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12May By MosesianNo Comments

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Super Falcons Will Overcome Ghana -Pinnick Assures

The President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Amaju Pinnick is confident that the Super Falcons would emerge victorious in the Qualifier match against Ghana. Super Falcons of Nigeria have been drawn to face Ghana in the first round of the 2022 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (AWCON) qualifiers. Falcons, known to be the most successful team with nine titles in eleven editions, will once again compete for the first round of the coveted women’s AFCON title. Pinnick who spoke during an interview on Channels Television’s Sports admitted that although the Ghanaian side is tough to beat; the Super Falcons would, however, scale through going by their level of preparedness. “We are not going to joke with the Qualifiers because we are playing Ghana. We are going to take it ve...

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11May By MosesianNo Comments

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Guardiola Hails Man City After ‘Hardest’ Title Triumph

Pep Guardiola saluted “relentless” Manchester City on Tuesday after they clinched the “hardest” of his three Premier League titles. Guardiola’s side were crowned English champions for the third time in four seasons thanks to Manchester United’s 2-1 defeat against Leicester. City have claimed the trophy with three games to spare, capping a remarkable surge to the silverware in the second half of the season. Guardiola endured the worst start to his managerial career as City won only five of their first 12 league games this term. They were hit by injuries to club record goalscorer Sergio Aguero and influential midfielder Kevin De Bruyne, as well as a Covid-19 outbreak in the squad in December. But Guardiola refused to let those problems derail City, leading them to his 10th...

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11May By MosesianNo Comments

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Ings Back with a Bang as Saints Beat Crystal Palace

Danny Ings scored twice on his return from injury as Southampton came out on top 3-1 in an exciting end-of-season encounter with Crystal Palace. With both teams free of the shackles of relegation it resulted in a pulsating encounter full of chances, sparked by an early Christian Benteke opener (2). But Ings - on his first start since limping off against Tottenham - skilfully equalised with Southampton's first effort on goal (19). Palace squandered a perfect opportunity to take the lead but Luka Milivojevic's penalty was saved by Fraser Forster (41). Southampton made them pay as Che Adams slid home at the back post (48) and Ings neatly finished off a flowing move (75) to wrap up the points. It was a timely reminder of his qualities with only two weeks until Gareth Southgate nam...

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11May By Ajiboye IfeoluwaNo Comments

Sport

Pochettino addresses Ramos to PSG transfer rumours, saying: We want to improve in all positions

The Argentine has not ruled out a swoop for the Real Madrid defender in the summer window Mauricio Pochettino has addressed the rumours linking Sergio Ramos with a move to Paris Saint-Germain, admitting "we want to improve in all positions". Ramos' future is the subject of much debate heading into the summer transfer window, with his current contract at Real Madrid set to expire at the end of June. The Blancos have yet to reach an agreement with their club captain over an extension, and PSG are one of several clubs reportedly keeping a close eye on the situation.

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11May By Ajiboye IfeoluwaNo Comments

Sport

Lewandowski reacts to talk of Serie A switch as Bayern Munich future is questioned

The prolific Polish striker has seen a move away from the Allianz Arena mooted, but he claims to be fully committed to his contract Robert Lewandowski admits to being a fan of Italian football, but the Bayern Munich striker has suggested that no move to Serie A will be made any time soon. The prolific Polish striker has seen a switch speculated on heading towards the summer transfer window, with it reported that the 32-year-old may be open to taking on a new challenge. He has, however, shut down that gossip for now, with a man tied to a contract at the Allianz Arena through to 2023 claiming to have no intention of leaving Germany.

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11May By Ajiboye IfeoluwaNo Comments

Sport

Laporte set to switch to Spain in time for European Championship after being ignored by France

The Man City defender played for Les Bleus at youth level but has not won a single senior cap after being snubbed by Didier Deschamps Manchester City defender Aymeric Laporte it set to play for Spain at the European Championship, sources have confirmed to Goal. The Spanish Football Federation has lodged paperwork with FIFA and is awaiting the final approval from the world governing body, and he could play at this summer's tournament alongside team-mate Eric Garcia. Laporte, 26, was born in the south-western French town of Agen but, despite playing for France at youth levels, has never appeared for the national team.

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11May By Ajiboye IfeoluwaNo Comments

Sport

How Man Utd’s Cavani deal could pave the way for Sancho signing

The 34-year-old forward has committed to another year at Old Trafford, which is likely to shift their priorities in the transfer market this summer Manchester United are unlikely to pursue a summer move for a superstar striker such as Erling Haaland or Harry Kane after Edinson Cavani committed to another year at Old Trafford. It could, however, open the door to United again going after Borussia Dortmund star Jadon Sancho after their failure to land the England international in the summer of 2020. United have been lacking a an established No.9 in recent times, and are admirers of both Haaland and Kane.

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11May By Ajiboye IfeoluwaNo Comments

Sport

Solskjaer maintains hope Maguire can play in Europa League final after suffering ankle injury

The defender has suffered an ankle injury and could be out for the remainder of the campaign Ole Gunnar Solskjaer hopes Manchester United captain Harry Maguire can still play in the Europa League final despite sustaining ligament damage in his ankle. The centre-back limped off in his side's 3-1 win at Aston Villa on Sunday, raising fears he could miss the rest of the season. Solskjaer has suggested Maguire will miss the rest of the Red Devils' Premier League campaign, but believes he could feature against Villarreal in the European decider on May 26.  

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11May By Ajiboye IfeoluwaNo Comments

Sport

Crystal Palace’s Zaha ‘not really a stats player’ – Ivorian reflects on contribution

Notwithstanding his efforts for the Eagles this term, the Ivory Coast international hopes to make a more meaningful impact for his side Wilfried Zaha has reflected on his contribution for Crystal Palace in the 2020-21 season and hopes to score more goals and assists for the club. The forward has been playing a significant role to help Palace maintain their Premier League status over the years, scoring a number of decisive goals. In the current campaign, he has found the back of the net 10 times and provided two assists, amid other dazzling displays.

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11May By Ajiboye IfeoluwaNo Comments

Sport

Spanaird, Blaugrana, Signing, Official, Manchester City, Defender, Eric Garcia, La Masia, Season, Camp Nou

The midfielder has been dogged by fitness issues throughout the season, and may now be unavailable to play for his country in the summer Marco Verratti is likely to be a doubt for Italy at the European Championship after being ruled out of Paris Saint-Germain's remaining 2020-21 fixtures through injury. Verratti has missed 21 games already this season due to a combination of injuries and positive coronavirus tests, and he has been dealt a fresh fitness blow ahead of Euro 2020. The tournament is due to kick off with Italy playing Turkey on June 11, but PSG have confirmed that the midfielder will spend at least a month on the sidelines due to a knee issue, which means he may be unavailable to Azzurri head coach Roberto Mancini.

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11May By MosesianNo Comments

Sport

Man City Crowned Premier League Champions for Fifth time

Manchester City have been crowned 2020-21 Premier League champions after Manchester United's defeat to Leicester. Pep Guardiola's side have had to wait to rubberstamp their latest triumph, following changes to the fixture schedule and their own slip-up. A late defeat to Chelsea last weekend as closest rivals United won at Aston Villa kept City's champagne on ice but they finally reclaimed the Premier League title from Liverpool before kicking a ball again as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side were beaten 2-1 on Tuesday after making 10 changes to their starting line-up. City have now won three Premier League titles and eight major trophies under Guardiola, who last year signed a new two-year contract to remain at the club until 2023. Manchester City crowned 2020-21 Premier ...

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11May By Ajiboye IfeoluwaNo Comments

Sport

Barcelona reach agreement to sign Manchester City defender Eric Garcia

The Spaniard will become the Blaugrana's first summer signing, with an official announcement expected in the coming weeks Barcelona have reached an agreement to sign Manchester City defender Eric Garcia, Goal can confirm. Garcia will move to Camp Nou on a free transfer when his current contract at City expires at the end of June. The 20-year-old rose through the youth ranks at La Masia before moving to Manchester in 2017, but will return to Barcelona ahead of the 2021-22 season.

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11May By MosesianNo Comments

Sport

Leicester Beat Man Utd to hand Man City Title

Leicester breathed life into their Champions League qualification bid with a 2-1 victory at Manchester United which confirmed Manchester City as Premier League champions. Luke Thomas' sumptuous first Premier League goal saw Leicester strike first against a much-changed United, who were playing the second of three games in a congested five-day period. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer had made 10 changes, but his makeshift United side hit back five minutes later as Mason Greenwood continued his red-hot form with an instinctive equaliser. Leicester improved drastically in the second half and deservedly regained the lead through Caglar Soyuncu's towering header, and, despite introducing Edinson Cavani, Marcus Rashford and Bruno Fernandes, there was no way back for United. United's defeat c...

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11May By Ajiboye IfeoluwaNo Comments

Sport

Eze has had a good season – Crystal Palace manager Hodgson

The Eagles boss has lauded the way the Anglo-Nigerian quickly settled in at Selhurst Park following his summer arrival Crystal Palace manager Roy Hodgson believed Eberechi Eze has had a good debut season with his side. The 22-year-old teamed up with the Eagles last summer from Queens Park Rangers following his fine showings for the Championship club. Eze has quickly settled in at Selhurst Park, making 34 appearances across all competitions, including 32 in the Premier League and bagged four goals with five assists.

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