Tag: Champions

16Sep By BobbyNo Comments

Sport

EPL: Solskjaer reveals Man Utd’s decision on Lingard’s future

Manchester United manager, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, has said the club is determined to keep Jesse Lingard. Lingard’s contract expires at the end of the season. This means the 28-year-old will be free to talk to clubs abroad as early as January. The United academy product impressed on loan at West Ham last season and returns to the London Stadium with United on Sunday. However, he has fallen down Solskjaer’s pecking order and was at fault for the late goal the Red Devils conceded in their 2-1 defeat to Young Boys in the Champions League on Tuesday. But Solskjaer said: “He’s got this season left of his contract and the club is talking to him and his dad, and we see him as a United player in the future as well. “We really want to see the best of Jesse this season and we hope to se...

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15Sep By BobbyNo Comments

Sport

Finidi George: Enyimba hire former Nigeria international

  The 50-year-old has been named as the new Peoples' Elephant handler after they parted ways with coach Fatai Osho Ajax legend Finidi George has been named as the new coach of two-time African champions Enyimba. The former Nigeria international was announced as the Peoples’ Elephant's new handler on Wednesday afternoon in an event held at the Enyimba International Stadium. The club had parted ways with coach Fatai Osho following his failure to win the Nigeria Professional Football League diadem.      

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15Sep By BobbyNo Comments

Sport

Man City had considerable chance of signing Ronaldo’ – Man Utd star came close to joining arch-rivals, claims Fernandinho

The midfielder has confirmed that the five-time Ballon d'Or winner's agent Jorge Mendes held talks with the Premier League champions Manchester City had a "considerable chance" of signing Cristiano Ronaldo ahead of arch-rivals Manchester United in the summer transfer window, according to Fernandinho. Ronaldo completed a sensational £20 million ($28m) move to United from Juventus on deadline day, returning to the club where he initially emerged as one of the top players of his generation between 2003 and 2009. However, there was plenty of speculation that the 36-year-old might head to the blue half of Manchester before the Red Devils finalised a deal, and Fernandinho has now confirmed that his agent Jorge Mendes was present at Etihad Stadium to hold initial talks.

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11Sep By BobbyNo Comments

Sport

Tau: Potter reveals Brighton players who were ahead of Al Ahly star

The 27-year-old Bafana Bafana star left the Seagulls to sign for the African champions on a four-year contract Brighton & Hove Albion manager Graham Potter has opened up on why South Africa player Percy Tau left the Premier League club to sign for Al Ahly. The 27-year-old finally ended transfer speculation on August 27, 2021, by sealing a move to the Egyptian giants on a four-year deal becoming the second South African to play for Al Ahly after Phakamani Mahlambi. Though he still had a year left on his contract at Brighton, the Bafana Bafana star was forced to leave as he struggled to get playing time in England.

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8Sep By BobbyNo Comments

Sport

Look at PSG & Mbappe!’ – Muller defends Bayern transfers & tells rivals they weren’t forced to sell

The Bundesliga champions launched a double raid on coach Julian Nagelsmann's former club RB Leipzig this year, leaving them struggling this term Thomas Muller has defended Bayern Munich's summer transfer raids on their rivals, pointing to Paris Saint-Germain and their retention of Kylian Mbappe as proof that teams are under no obligation to sell. The Bundesliga champions launched a double raid on coach Julian Nagelsmann's former club RB Leipzig, drafting both Dayot Upamecano and Marcel Sabitzer into their ranks at the Allianz Arena. While Bayern have begun the season unbeaten, Leipzig have won just one of their first three games - but Muller says that any accusation of sabotaging rivals is preposterous.

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8Sep By BobbyNo Comments

Sport

Look at PSG & Mbappe!’ – Muller defends Bayern transfers & tells rivals they weren’t forced to sell

The Bundesliga champions launched a double raid on coach Julian Nagelsmann's former club RB Leipzig this year, leaving them struggling this term Thomas Muller has defended Bayern Munich's summer transfer raids on their rivals, pointing to Paris Saint-Germain and their retention of Kylian Mbappe as proof that teams are under no obligation to sell. The Bundesliga champions launched a double raid on coach Julian Nagelsmann's former club RB Leipzig, drafting both Dayot Upamecano and Marcel Sabitzer into their ranks at the Allianz Arena. While Bayern have begun the season unbeaten, Leipzig have won just one of their first three games - but Muller says that any accusation of sabotaging rivals is preposterous.

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3Sep By BobbyNo Comments

News

Nigeria 2-0 Liberia: Super Eagles begin 2022 World Cup qualifiers with home win

The three-time African champions started their qualifying campaign with a commanding win in Lagos on Friday Kelechi Iheanacho’s brace guided Nigeria to a 2-0 victory over Liberia in their opening fixture in the 2022 Fifa World Cup qualifiers in Lagos on Friday. Iheanacho's efforts at the Teslim Balogun Stadium took his international tally to 11 goals as he closes in on Jay-Jay Okocha and Julius Aghahowa's mark of 14 goals in the national team colours. The Super Eagles started the encounter on a stronger foot with the most attempts on goal and greater possession that paid off with two goals in the first 45 minutes.

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3Sep By BobbyNo Comments

Sport

‘We don’t have to feel sorry for Hudson-Odoi’ – Chelsea manager Tuchel

  The Ghana prospect has seen limited playing time at the club but the German insists the player has to work for his position Chelsea FC manager Thomas Tuchel insists Callum Hudson-Odoi must patiently wait for his chance to play for the team and there is no need to feel sorry for him. The attacker has been used sparingly at Stamford Bridge of late and was at one point a target of German champions Bayern Munich. However, the deal did not materialise as the Uefa Champions League champions did not want to let him leave especially after failing to land Sevilla's Jules Kounde.      

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3Sep By BobbyNo Comments

Sport

Bakayoko eager to avoid Chelsea return after sealing another AC Milan loan

The French midfielder is back at San Siro for a second stint with the Serie A champions, with a desire to remain in Italy Tiemoue Bakayoko hopes his association with Chelsea has come to a close, with the French midfielder eager to avoid returning to Stamford Bridge after securing a second loan at AC Milan. The 27-year-old midfielder spent the 2018-19 campaign at San Siro, having failed to convince during a testing debut season in England following his £40 million move. Bakayoko has since spent time with Monaco and Napoli, keeping him on 43 appearances for his parent club, and is now back in Italy on a two-year loan that includes an option to buy.        

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29Aug By MosesianNo Comments

News

Ricardo Reveals why Ronaldo Rejoined Man Utd, Warns Portugal captain

Former Manchester United player, Ricardo Lopez, has said his ex-teammate, Cristiano Ronaldo has returned to the club to make them champions. Pep Guardiola’s side interest cooled on Friday, paving the way for an Old Trafford return for the football star. “I was surprised that Cristiano Ronaldo went to United,” Ricardo told Radio MARCA. “He surprised me. “United are a great team, one of the European greats, but they’re not at their best now. He’ll have thought that he can go there and make them champions.” However, Ricardo warned Ronaldo, saying, “The weather is very bad. But he knows it. “It’s clear that he wants to keep growing his legendary status. “Cristiano’s arrival should inject positivity. Now they’re a candidate to win everything. ...

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29Aug By Ajiboye IfeoluwaNo Comments

Sport

Balogun and Aribo inspire Rangers to victory over Celtic in Old Firm Derby

The duo played the entire game to ensure the Gers maintained their recent good run over their bitter rivals Super Eagles stars Leon Balogun and Joe Aribo were involved as Rangers defeated Celtic by a solitary goal in the Scottish Old Firm derby played at Ibrox Stadium on Sunday. Both players were involved for the entire game as the hosts recorded back-to-back wins for the first time this season. Prior to the meeting with the league champions, Celtic had not tasted defeat and they had scored 12 goals in their last two matches against Dundee and St Mirren respectively, conceding none in the process.

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27Aug By Ajiboye IfeoluwaNo Comments

Sport

Guardiola expects no new signings at Man City as transfer deadline approaches

The £100 million British transfer record signing of Jack Grealish is set to be the Premier League champions only major deal of the summer Pep Guardiola doesn't expect any more incomings or outgoings at Manchester City as the transfer deadline approaches. City are short of a striker after missing out on top target Harry Kane, who will remain at Tottenham, while they also pulled the plug on a move for Juventus forward Cristiano Ronaldo. Several players, including Bernardo Silva and Aymeric Laporte, have been linked with moves away from the Etihad Stadium, but Guardiola is expecting to have the same squad after the transfer window shuts on Tuesday.

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27Aug By Ajiboye IfeoluwaNo Comments

Sport

Mamelodi Sundowns coach Mokwena reveals ‘emotional discussion’ with Tau over Al Ahly move

The ex-Brighton & Hove Albion player sought the opinion of his former Masandawana coach before making up his mind Mamelodi Sundowns co-coach Rhulani Mokwena has revealed Bafana Bafana attacker Percy Tau consulted him first before the player decided to join Al Ahly. Mokwena says he had an “emotional” two-hour conversation with Tau who was unveiled as Al Ahly's new player on Thursday. The Bafana star left Premier League side Brighton to join the reigning African champions coached by former Sundowns coach Pitso Mosimane.  

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26Aug By MosesianNo Comments

Sport

Man United boss, Solskjaer reacts to Ronaldo’s ‘move’ to Man City

Manchester United boss, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has waved aside speculation linking Cristiano Ronaldo with a move to Manchester City, describing it as ‘nonsense’. Ronaldo is said to be pushing his way out of Juventus, seeking a return to the Premier League, amid interest from Pep Guardiola’s reigning champions. Man City failed in their bid to sign Harry Kane from Tottenham after the England star officially announced his desire to remain at north London. Ronaldo spent 6 trophy-laden years at Manchester United before joining Real Madrid earlier in his career. Many Man United fans have suggested the 36-year-old would tarnish his legacy by joining United rivals, Man City, and Solskjaer cannot envisage his former teammate making a highly contentious move. ...

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24Aug By Ajiboye IfeoluwaNo Comments

Sport

Bayern Munich agree terms with Sabitzer but no deal yet as RB Leipzig demand €15m – and target Barca tearaway Moriba

The Bundesliga champions are debating whether to make an offer for the Austrian star, while their league rivals have lined up a replacement Bayern Munich have a verbal agreement with RB Leipzig star Marcel Sabitzer over a contract but the Bavarians have not decided whether to make a transfer bid, Goal and Spox can confirm. Sabitzer has entered the final season of his contract with Leipzig and would like to join Bayern, whose sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic has been in close contact with Sabitzer's agent. However, Bayern have not yet decided whether they will meet Leipzig's €15 million (£13m/$18m) asking price for the Austrian midfielder.  

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23Aug By Ajiboye IfeoluwaNo Comments

Sport

Bayern Munich star Kimmich signs new four-year contract at Allianz Arena

The Germany international has committed his future to the Bundesliga champions through to 2025 Bayern Munich star Joshua Kimmich has signed a new four-year contract at Allianz Arena. Kimmich initially joined Bayern from RB Leipzig as a teenager back in 2015, and has since established himself as one of the top midfielders in Germany. The 26-year-old had just entered the final two years of his previous deal, but the Bundesliga champions have moved to tie him down to fresh terms which will see him stay put until at least 2025.

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21Aug By Ajiboye IfeoluwaNo Comments

Sport

‘It will be a step back’ – Khanye against Brighton’s Percy Tau move to Al Ahly

The former Kaizer Chiefs player feels the proposed move to the African champions would be a huge step backwards for the Bafana Bafana forward Junior Khanye has revealed the reason he does not want to see South Africa international Percy Tau leave Brighton & Hove Albion for Al Ahly. The 27-year-old forward has been a transfer subject for the Egyptian giants in the current window and reports have indicated he could seal the move next week. Khanye, who formerly played for Kaizer Chiefs, Platinum Stars, and Maritzburg United in the PSL, believes a transfer to the African champions will be a step backward for the Bafana Bafana star and insists a stay in England will be good for his career.

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19Aug By Ajiboye IfeoluwaNo Comments

Sport

Kane and Man City running out of time to complete record-breaking transfer

Pep Guardiola has made not secret of his desire to sign the Tottenham forward but the Premier League champions are yet to make a breakthrough Harry Kane has seemingly run out of manoeuvres to try to force through the move to Manchester City that he desperately wants. With three years remaining on his current contract, Tottenham cannot be strong-armed into an end-of-window sale for anything less than the £160 million ($220m) they are understood to be demanding. The England striker had few bargaining chips to begin with and the ones he has played have seemingly had no impact on the stance of Spurs chairman Daniel Levy.  

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19Aug By Ajiboye IfeoluwaNo Comments

Sport

Manchester City introduce ‘edible coffee cups’ as part of food and beverage overhaul

The Premier League champions announced a new catering range ahead of their first home game of the 2021-22 season - with one detail catching the eye Manchester City fans will have an unusual new snack option when they return to Etihad Stadium for their first Premier League home game of the 2021-22 season, with the club announcing the introduction of "edible coffee cups". The champions unveiled a host of new food and drink options ahead of the game against Norwich City this weekend, saying it was part of a drive to increase the amount of locally sourced catering at their home ground, and to cut down on environmental waste. In among the promise of local food and artisan beer, however, was the striking announcement of a suggested new way to cut down on rubbish - "just eat your cup!" -...

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18Aug By Ajiboye IfeoluwaNo Comments

Sport

Europa League: Nabouhane propels Red Star Belgrade past CFR Cluj

The Comoros international got a goal and two assists as the Red-Whites strolled past the reigning Romanian champions Red Star Belgrade defeated CFR Cluj 4-0 in Tuesday’s Europa League first leg play-off round, with El Fardou Ben Nabouhane finding the net. The Comoros international got a second-half goal as the Red-Whites saw off the Romanians, who have failed to win any of their last four games in the tournament. Having crashed out of the Champions League following a 2-1 aggregate loss to FC Sheriff, the Serbian Super Liga side were demoted to the Europa League.

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17Aug By Ajiboye IfeoluwaNo Comments

Sport

Villarreal’s Chukwueze still missing but Dia makes La Liga debut against Granada

The Yellow Submarine have handed the Senegal striker his Spanish topflight bow but will be without their Nigerian star Samuel Chukwueze remains unavailable to Villarreal, as he sits out of his team’s La Liga opener against Granada. The Nigeria international has been out of action since picking an injury during the Yellow Submarine’s Europa League semi-final fixture against Arsenal on May 6. Before his injury nightmare, the Super Eagles was a threat to the Gunners’ backline, very nearly giving the Spaniards an early lead after four minutes. Sadly, his contributions in the competition came to an end, however he still picked up a winner's medal after his Spanish topflight side beat Manchester United in the final to emerge as champions. Despite returning to personal training, the ...

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16Aug By Ajiboye IfeoluwaNo Comments

Sport

Bayern Munich cannot keep Kimmich and Goretzka ‘at any cost’, admits president Hainer

The Allianz Arena chief has insisted that the club won't be held to ransom in contract negotiations with two key players Bayern Munich president Herbert Hainer has admitted that the club cannot keep Joshua Kimmich and Leon Goretzka "at any cost". Kimmich has just entered the final two years of his current contract at Allianz Arena, while Goretzka only has 11 months left to run on his agreement, and has been strongly linked with Manchester United. Bayern are reportedly working to tie both players down to new long-term deals, but Hainer insists that the German champions won't be held to ransom when it comes to their wage demands.  

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16Aug By Ajiboye IfeoluwaNo Comments

News

Man City star Gundogan to undergo tests on shoulder injury, confirms Guardiola

The Germany midfielder was hurt in the closing stages of the Premier League champions' 1-0 defeat away at Tottenham Manchester City star Ilkay Gundogan is set to undergo tests on a shoulder injury, Pep Guardiola has confirmed. Gundogan played the full 90 minutes of City's 1-0 loss away at Tottenham on Sunday afternoon, but was seen heading down the tunnel with strapping on his shoulder. The Germany international appeared to pick up the injury during a collision with a Spurs player late on, and Guardiola provided an update on his condition.

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16Aug By Ajiboye IfeoluwaNo Comments

Sport

Get Kane done! Man City show why Guardiola desperately needs Tottenham’s striker

The reigning champions lost 1-0 at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in their opening game and look short of a goalscoring threat Pep Guardiola paced his technical area frantically as his Manchester City side desperately pushed for an equaliser against Tottenham. But you don't have to be the most innovative coach in world football to see what was wrong with his side. City need a goalscorer and the answer to his problems was sitting high in the stands of the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, with his future still in London rather than with the champions.

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15Aug By MosesianNo Comments

Sport

BREAKING: Bayern Munich legend, Muller is dead

Bayern Munich legend, Gerd Muller, is dead. Muller passed away at the age of 75 on Sunday morning. Bayern Munich disclosed this in a statement via their website. “Today the world of FC Bayern stands still. The German record champions and its entire fan base mourn Gerd Müller, who died early Sunday morning at the age of 75,” the statement read in part. Müller made history with Bayern Munich and the German national team during his playing days. The former striker scored an unbelievable 566 goals in 607 competitive games for Bayern and set the unprecedented record of 365 goals in the Bundesliga. Muller also secured the top scorer award seven times. For the DFB selection, he scored 68 times in 62 appearances.

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14Aug By Ajiboye IfeoluwaNo Comments

Sport

‘I am afraid for Lukaku’, mistake to return to Chelsea – Mohammed

The Belgian made a return to the Blues hoping to have a better spell as opposed to the initial one where he struggled to leave a mark Ex-Ghana attacker Yahaya Mohammed believes Romelu Lukaku has made a mistake to return to Chelsea. The Blues completed the signing of the Belgian from Inter for £98 million ($136m), with the striker returning to Stamford Bridge for a second spell after two years in Italy. The 28-year-old who took in his first stint with the Blues between 2011 and 2014, signed a five-year deal with the European champions that will see him remain in West London until 2026.

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10Aug By Ajiboye IfeoluwaNo Comments

News

Champions League: Jack Grealish predicts club to win trophy this season

New Manchester City signing, Jack Grealish, has backed Pep Guardiola’s side to win the UEFA Champions League this season. Man City failed to win the Champions League last season after losing 1-0 in the final to Premier League rivals Chelsea. But Grealish, who joined Man City from Aston Villa for £100million this summer, believes the Premier League champions can win the Europe top-flight league this term. The England international said this at a press conference on Monday. “I look around the changing room and there is so much talent and so much depth, I fully believe we can win it [UEFA Champions League] this year. “We have so much talent in the Premier League and the depth is crazy – that is something we will be looking to win along with every other trophy,” Grealish was quo...

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4Aug By Ajiboye IfeoluwaNo Comments

Sport

Manchester City set to complete £100m move for Aston Villa star Grealish

The Premier League champions will finalise the transfer in the next few days, breaking the British record Manchester City are set to complete a record-breaking £100m ($139m) deal for Aston Villa midfielder Jack Grealish in the coming days, Goal can confirm. The Premier League champions put in a bid for the England international at the end of July, with reports indicating he is already in Manchester to sign a deal. City declined to comment on the move but it is understood that the deal could be completed before City's Community Shield clash against Leicester City on Saturday.

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4Aug By Ajiboye IfeoluwaNo Comments

Sport

Sabitzer tells RB Leipzig he doesn’t want to renew his contract amid Bayern Munich transfer links

The Austrian has been heavily linked with the Bundesliga champions and has now told his club that he isn't interested in extending his contract RB Leipzig midfielder Marcel Sabitzer has told the club that he doesn't want to extend his contract, Goal and SPOX has learned, amid reported interest from Bayern Munich. Austria international Sabitzer's deal with the Bundesliga side ends in 2022 although, as it stands, he does not want to extend his contract beyond that point. German champions Bayern have been the side most consistently linked with Sabitzer, although it is understood that no official bid has been made yet.

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2Aug By MosesianNo Comments

Sport

Akwa United Crowned Champions after MFM Win

Akwa United have been crowned champions of the 2020/2021 Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) season, following their 5-2 win over MFM FC on Sunday. The Promise Keepers have secured the title with one round of fixture left. Charles Atshimene netted a hat-trick as the hosts crushed the Olukoya Boys, who have failed to win in eight games away from home. The thrilling game sealed Akwa United’s position at the top of the NPFL table with 71 points after 37 matches. They are now nine points ahead of second-placed Nasarawa United, who take on Enugu Rangers on Monday. The triumph secured the Promise Keepers’ first-ever top-flight crown in their 25-year history and it is added to their trophy cabinet which has two FA Cups (2015 and 2017) and the Nigeria Super Cup (2016)....

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19Jul By MosesianNo Comments

Sport

Messi Breaks Ronaldo’s record after winning Copa America

  Argentina captain, Lionel Messi has broken an Instagram record previously held by his biggest rival, Cristiano Ronaldo, after winning the Copa America earlier this month. Messi finally won on the international stage, as Albiceleste beat hosts Brazil 1-0 in the final of the competition. Following that victory on July 10, Messi took to Instagram to celebrate their triumph, with a post. It was a picture of him in the dressing room, holding the trophy alongside the caption: “What a beautiful madness! This is unbelievable! Thank you, God! We are the champions!” As things stand, the photo has been liked more than 20 million times, thus making the image the most popular Instagram post ever posted by an athlete. Ronaldo’s record lasted just under a year. The Juventus s...

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17Jul By Ajiboye IfeoluwaNo Comments

Sport

Bayern boss Nagelsmann won’t panic over transfer activity

The Bundesliga champions are obliged to replace a number of key first-teamers who have left the club over the summer Bayern Munich coach Julian Nagelsmann is relaxed over the slow rate of transfer activity around the Allianz Arena, despite a disappointing start to his first pre-season at the club. The Bundesliga champions, fielding a side largely consisting of reserve and youth players, went down 3-2 to Koln in Saturday's friendly, Nagelsmann's unofficial debut in the post. But despite losing stars like David Alaba, Javier Martinez and Jerome Boateng over the summer, the former RB Leipzig chief is happy to see things develop at their own pace.

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16Jul By Ajiboye IfeoluwaNo Comments

Sport

Africa’s greatest teams #2: SC Zamalek

The penultimate episode in Goal's series to celebrate the continent's finest Caf Champions League winners, we remember the White Knights Coming in second in our rankings of Africa's greatest teams are SC Zamalek, and their sublime side at the turn of the century who - for a time at least - were Africa's most successful club side in the continent's premier competition. SC Zamalek entered the 1996 edition of the African Cup of Champions Clubs with what is known by the club’s fans as the ‘Dream Team’, composed of the likes of Khaled Ghandour, Hazem Emam, Ismail Youssef or Medhat Abdelhadi.

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16Jul By Ajiboye IfeoluwaNo Comments

Sport

Caf Champions League: Al Ahly won’t sit back, not Mosimane’s style – Arendse warns Kaizer Chiefs

The 36-year-old former Mamelodi Sundowns defender believes any team can be crowned champions when Amakhosi face the Red Devils Wayne Arendse has warned Kaizer Chiefs that they can expect Al Ahly to attack them in search of an early goal. The Soweto heavyweights will be playing the Red Devils in the Caf Champions League final on Saturday in Casablanca, Morocco. While the defending champions will be targeting their 10th crown, Chiefs will be aiming at landing their first. It is for the aforementioned reason the ex-Bafana Bafana defender has given Amakhosi a piece of advice on what to expect from his former coach Pitso Mosimane.

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15Jul By MosesianNo Comments

Sport

Euro 2020: UEFA announces winner of Goal of the Tournament

  Czech Republic’s Patrik Schick has won the UEFA Euro 2020 Goal of the Tournament. Schick’s sensational long-range effort for the Czech Republic against Scotland has been named Goal of the Tournament. He won the award ahead of France’s Paul Pogba’s strike against Switzerland. Cristiano Ronaldo awarded Euro 2020 Golden Boot as Italy are crowned champions Full list of UEFA’s Goals of the tournament below; Patrik Schick, Scotland 0-2 Czech Republic (14/06, Matchday 1) Paul Pogba, France 3-3 Switzerland, 4-5 pens (28/06, round of 16) Luka Modrić, Croatia 3-1 Scotland (22/06, Matchday 3) Lorenzo Insigne, Belgium 1-2 Italy (02/07, quarter-finals) Kevin De Bruyne, Denmark 1-2 Belgium (17/06, Matchday 2) Cristiano Ronaldo, Hungary 0-3 Portugal (15/06, Mat...

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11Jul By Ajiboye IfeoluwaNo Comments

Sport

Former Germany star Kroos ‘no longer fits in today’s football’, claims ex-Bayern Munich supremo Hoeness

The old president of the Bundesliga champions has singled out the midfielder for criticism after the national team's early exit from Euro 2020 Former Bayern Munich president Uli Hoeness has launched a stinging attack on Toni Kroos, saying the Real Madrid midfielder “no longer fits with today’s football”. The 2014 World Cup-winner announced his retirement from internationals after Germany’s Euro 2020 elimination at the hands of England last month, bringing the curtain down on a glittering international career that saw him earn 106 caps over 11 years. Hoeness was particularly critical of Kroos’ display against the Three Lions at Wembley and felt his inclusion contributed to their downfall – but Kroos himself has since responded.

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2Jul By Ajiboye IfeoluwaNo Comments

Sport

Messi has made up his mind’ – Uganda’s Express FC ‘sign ex-Barcelona star’

The newly crowned champions have left their fans in stiches after posting a picture of the Argentine in the team’s uniform Newly crowned Uganda Premier League champions Express FC have left their fans guessing after claiming former Barcelona star Lionel Messi was headed to the club. The Argentine star became a free agent after his contract at the Catalans giants expired at the end of June. Although Barcelona were hopeful of Messi signing a renewal before the June 30 deadline, the 34-year-old is now officially unattached.

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30Jun By Ajiboye IfeoluwaNo Comments

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‘We are at the final stages’ – Hakimi transfer to PSG will be completed in 24 hours, says Inter CEO Marotta

The Moroccan star will leave the Serie A champions after spending just one season with the club Inter CEO Giuseppe Marotta has confirmed wing-back Achraf Hakimi will be a PSG player within the next 24 hours. Hakimi only joined Inter last summer from Real Madrid, and the Moroccan helped the club lift the 2020-21 Serie A title in his first season with the club. However, amid Inter's financial difficulties, the club has been forced to sell Hakimi to raise funds.

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30Jun By MosesianNo Comments

Sport

Barcelona vs Real Madrid Clasico dates confirmed as LaLiga Announces 2021/22 fixtures

  Real Madrid and Barcelona will clash in the El Clasico on October 24 and March 20 next season. This was confirmed on Wednesday, as LaLiga unveiled their 2021/2022 fixtures. The two rivals finished behind champions Atletico Madrid last term and will be looking to reclaim their place at the top of the Spanish top flight. The first LaLiga weekend will be on August 15, while the season finishes on May 22, 2022. Real Madrid is away to Alaves on August 15 to kick off the season, while Barcelona welcomes Real Sociedad on the same day. Atletico begins their title defence with a trip to Celta Vigo. Espanyol, Mallorca and Rayo Vallecano meanwhile will all join LaLiga in 2021-22 as newly-promoted sides.

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29Jun By Ajiboye IfeoluwaNo Comments

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Kaizer Chiefs will be Al Ahly’s easiest opponents – Mido pokes Amakhosi

The ex-Tottenham Hotspur and Ajax forward has made remarks which could provoke the Soweto giants' fans Former Egypt international striker, Ahmed Hossam Hussein, more popularly known as Mido, has stoked the flames ahead of the July 17 Caf Champions League final, saying Kaizer Chiefs are way inferior to Al Ahly, whom he tips to win comfortably. It is the Chiefs’ first-ever appearance in the Champions League final and they come up against nine-time African champions Al Ahly, who are also the titleholders. In remarks which might not be well-received by some Chiefs fans, Mido suggests the South Africans will be at the mercy of the Cairo giants as he gives them no chance against Africa's club of the century.

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28Jun By MosesianNo Comments

Sport

Euro 2020: Roy Keane Blames two Players for Portugal’s 1-0 Defeat to Belgium

Manchester United legend, Roy Keane has blamed Joao Felix and Bruno Fernandes for Portugal’s exit from the ongoing Euro 2020 on Sunday night. Portugal was eliminated from the European Championship against Belgium in Seville, following a first-half goal from Thorgan Hazard. There were plenty of chances for Portugal to equalize against Belgium, but Felix and Fernandes both missed their opportunities to score for Fernando Santos’s side. “I get really annoyed with it, particularly when they are quality players,” Keane said on ITV. “There is no excuse for it, seeing players leaning back and just missing the target, at least test the goalkeeper, these are top players no getting away from that. “Felix, when he came on, that guy was an imposter, he is an imposter. “He comes o...

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28Jun By MosesianNo Comments

Sport

Euro 2020: Ronaldo, Portugal Stars in Tears after Losing to Belgium

  The coach of the Portugal national team, Fernando Santos, has revealed his players were in tears, following their exit from Euro 2020 on Sunday. The defending champions lost 1-0 to the top-ranked country in the world Belgium in the last-16 of the tournament. Santos feels his side were hard done by, as they had four times the number of shots their opponents mustered. “There are players crying in the changing room. They gave everything. Belgium had 6 shots, we had 29. Sincerely I don’t have many words. “We believed if we won this one, we would have gone on to win the next one. They scored, we didn’t. It’s football,” Santos said. Belgium will now face another favourites Italy in the quarter-finals.

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27Jun By Ajiboye IfeoluwaNo Comments

News

Leipzig, Southampton and Brighton join Villa and Milan in the race for Chelsea’s Livramento

The exciting Blues youngster has yet more clubs queuing at the door for his services RB Leipzig, Southampton and Brighton have joined the likes of Aston Villa and Milan in the race for Tino Livramento, Chelsea's Academy Player of the Year. The 18-year-old attacking full-back has just one year left on his contract at Stamford Bridge and the European champions are trying to convince him to sign a new deal amid the interest. However, the Blues' attempts to sign Inter's Achraf Hakimi could lead the homegrown star to explore alternative options, even if Paris Saint-Germain are strong favourites to win the race for the Morocco international.

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26Jun By MosesianNo Comments

Sport

Bath and Lightning to duel in Superleague Grand Final

Team Bath Netball will face Loughborough Lightning in the 2021 Vitality Netball Superleague Grand Final on Sunday. Anna Stembridge's Bath side, who are going in search of their first title in eight years, overcame the defending champions Manchester Thunder 41-38 at the Copper Box Arena on Saturday afternoon. Lightning, who have never won the title, showed their firepower with an impressive 58-38 victory against Leeds Rhinos Netball. Bath and Lightning will duel for the crown on Sunday afternoon. The season-defining contest has a 5pm first centre pass and it will be shown live on Sky Sports Main Event, Action and Mix. For the beaten finalists, third place remains on the line and they will take to court for a 3pm start. Both matches will also be streamed on the Sky Sports You...

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26Jun By Ajiboye IfeoluwaNo Comments

Sport

Chukwueze: It is surprising Villarreal want to let him go – Boudet

The Super Eagle has made 92 appearances for the Yellow Submarines, scoring 12 goals in the process Football expert Francois Miguel Boudet is surprised Europa League champions Villarreal are willing to let Samuel Chukwueze leave in the ongoing transfer window. The 22-year-old attacker joined the Spanish outfit in 2018 and has since made 92 appearances, scoring 12 goals in the process. He played a crucial role in helping the team lift the Europa League last season but Unai Emery sees him as surplus to requirements. French side Olympique Marseille have been linked with the player.

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22Jun By MosesianNo Comments

Sport

Nigerian MMA Fighter, Israel Adesanya Emerges Top Earner with $500,000 payday following recent Victory Over Marvin Vettori

Nigerian-born New Zealand MMA fighter, Israel Adesanya has emerged as the top earner following his recent victory against Italy's Marvin Vettori The salaries of UFC 263 fighters which were made public shows that the middleweight champion pocketed $500,000 for his unanimous decision win over Marvin Vettori, as revealed to MMAJunkie. Adesanya was the main attraction in Glendale, Arizona, on Saturday, June 12, 2021.Vettori himself earned $350,000 for his role in the main event. Nate Diaz, who was making his comeback to the octagon, earned $250,000 in his defeat to Leon Edwards. The British fighter earned $220,000, which includes a $110,000 win bonus, for his unanimous decision victory.

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19Jun By Ajiboye IfeoluwaNo Comments

Sport

Euro 2020: Hungary 1-1 France full match reaction and quotes: Dembele injury blow but Griezmann still buoyant

Les Bleus remain favourites for continental glory but have struggled to find a spark and were held in their latest outing France remain world champions and favourites for Euro 2020 glory, but Didier Deschamps' side are still searching for a spark after being held to a 1-1 draw by Hungary in Budapest. Antoine Griezmann cancelled out Attila Fiola's opener in that contest, which was played out in front of a lively full house in Budapest, but Les Bleus were unable to find a winner despite boasting an enviable array of attacking options. They also required an own goal from Mats Hummels to edge them past Germany in their European Championship opener, and suffered an attacking blow at the Puskas Arena as Ousmane Dembele - who was only introduced as a second-half substitute - was forced off...

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18Jun By MosesianNo Comments

Sport

Euro 2020: Ronaldo not the most valuable player in Portugal team – Bruno Fernandes

  Portugal playmaker, Bruno Fernandes, has said captain of the team, Cristiano Ronaldo, is not the most valuable player. Ronaldo netted a brace, as the defending champions beat Hungary 3-0 in their first Euro 2020 game on Tuesday. Yet while he may be nearing the all-time record goalscoring tally at international level, Fernandes feels his contribution to the group as a whole is what takes precedence. Discussing his captain, Fernandes told reporters: “Ronaldo is influential, as always. He is another one who wants to do his best and is making a difference.” Before adding: “The most valuable player in the national team is the ‘we’. The ‘we’ is the most important, there are many Is, but the ‘us’ is what counts.”

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17Jun By Ajiboye IfeoluwaNo Comments

Sport

Bafana Bafana avoid guests Senegal as Cosafa Cup groups are revealed

The new South Africa technical team will start planning for their opponents at the regional football competition Bafana Bafana have been drawn in a Cosafa Cup group which includes Lesotho, Botswana and Eswatini. This year’s tournament will be staged in Gqeberha from July 7 to 18 in what would be the 20th edition of the competition which has Senegal as guest participants this time. None of Bafana’s Group A opponents has ever won the Cosafa Cup before while the hosts are four-time champions.

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17Jun By Ajiboye IfeoluwaNo Comments

Sport

There are less than 30 Africans fighters in the UFC, yet 3 of us are Champions” – Israel Adesanya writes as he heaps praises on Usman, Ngannou and himself

Nigerian-New Zealand professional mixed martial artist, Israel Adesanya has praised the amazing performances of other African fighters, Kamaru Usman and Francis Ngannou including himself as they keep dominating  the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC).     In a post on his official Instagram page, the 31 years old noted that the numbers of African fighters are relatively low compared to fighters from other parts of the world. He disclosed that there are over 600 fighters who are currently signed to the Ultimate Fighting Championship but less than 30 of them are of African origin.   Despite the low numbers of African fighters in UFC, Adesanya is proud of himself alongside Kamaru Usman and Francis Ngannou who are currently champions.   He wrote: ...

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