Tag: national team

15Jan By MosesianNo Comments

Sport

AFCON 2021: How we’ll approach Nigeria clash – Sudan coach, Burhan Tia

Sudan national team head coach, Burhan Tia has said that his team will approach their 2021 Africa Cup of Nations, AFCON, tie against Nigeria with a balance between defense and attack. Sudan will face the Super Eagles in their second AFCON fixture at the Roumdé Adjia Stadium, Garoua, on Saturday evening. The Falcons of Jediane head to the game after playing a 0-0 draw against Guinea-Bissau in their first game on Tuesday. Nigeria, meanwhile, defeated Egypt 1-0, thanks to Kelechi Iheanacho’s first-half goal. “We play with a great team [Nigeria] with high-level stars, but we will play with a balance between defense and attack,” Tia told CAF’s official website. “The absence of Mohamed Abdel Rahman is impressive, but we have a number of young players waiting for an opportunity t...

Read More

15Jan By MosesianNo Comments

Sport

Nigeria vs Sudan: Super Eagles Could suffer Rude shock

Nothing gives every Nigerian joy like football. Not food. Not politics. Not even religion. Football is what pulls every ethnic division in this country together. And so we stood as one on Tuesday, when the Super Eagles defeated Egypt 1-0 in their 2021 Africa Cup of Nations opener. Online and offline, we sang, we hugged, we tweeted, we predicted, we drank, we laughed. One would have thought the national team would return on the next available flight with the trophy. But the tournament only began. On Saturday, Augustine Eguavoen’s men take on Sudan in their second group fixture. I don’t mean to be a joykiller. But the Eagles have let down the nation before. Remember when we lost out on qualification for the 2006 World Cup on home soil against Angola. Both nations ended...

Read More

12Jan By MosesianNo Comments

Sport

AFCON: Sudan coach, Tia makes honest confession ahead of Nigeria clash

Sudan national team head coach, Burhan Tia, has made an honest confession ahead of his side’s 2021 Africa Cup of Nations, AFCON, tie with Nigeria on Saturday. Sudan will take on Nigeria in their second Group D fixture at the Roumdé Adjia Stadium in Garoua, this weekend. The Falcons of Jediane head to the game following a 0-0 draw against Guinea-Bissau in their first game on Tuesday, while the Super Eagles defeated Egypt 1-0. Asked about facing Nigeria in their next group game, Tia said it would not be easy. “It will not be easy, as well as facing Egypt, but these are matches that we have put in our minds and our program before the tournament,” Tia was quoted by Filgoal as saying. Meanwhile, Nigeria are on top of Group D with 3 points from one game, while Sudan are in the t...

Read More

12Jan By MosesianNo Comments

Sport

AFCON 2021: Real reason Akpeyi lost his place in Super Eagles – Rohr

Former head coach of the Super Eagles, Gernot Rohr has revealed why Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper, Daniel Akpeyi lost his starting spot in the national team. Since 2019, Akpeyi has been a reserve keeper, falling behind Maduka Okoye and Francis Uzoho. He was on the bench for six of Nigeria’s 2022 World Cup qualifiers. Akpeyi was again overlooked for the 1-0 win over Egypt in the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations opener, with Okoye given the nod. “He never lost his place in the national team as one of our three goalkeepers,” Rohr told iDiski Times. “He lost the number one because he had some injuries and was ill at times, giving the others a chance to play and play well. “Francis Uzoho also came back, who was the youngest goalkeeper at the 2018 World Cup with 18 years. Maduka also pl...

Read More

9Jan By MosesianNo Comments

Sport

AFCON 2021: Ex-Chelsea star names 7 players to watch out for during tournament

Former Chelsea star, Geremi Njitap has named the seven football players to watch out for at the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations, AFCON, in Cameroon. The 2021 AFCON will begin today (Sunday) with host nation Cameroon, taking on Burkina Faso. Speaking to Metro UK on behalf of Genting Casino, Geremi has named the players he expects to do well during the competition. He said, “From the Ivory Coast, Sebastian Haller is one to watch. “He’s scoring a lot of goals for Ajax this season and for me, has a very good chance to win the Golden Boot at AFCON if he continues with his current form. “In the Senegal national team, you have to look at Ismaila Sarr, he is going to do a lot of good things. “He has been very good for Watford in the past few years and he is an exciting young talent....

Read More

7Jan By MosesianNo Comments

Sport

Lionel Messi, Mohamed Salah and Robert Lewandowski shortlisted as final three for FIFA Best Awards men’s player of the year.

Lionel Messi, Mohamed Salah, and Robert Lewandowski have been announced as the final three nominees for the FIFA Best Awards men’s player of the year. The award is voted for by a jury made up of current men's national team coaches and captains, one specialist journalist from each territory represented by a national team, and fans registered on FIFA.com. Paris St Germain's superstar, Lionel Messi finally ended his wait for major international silverware in 2021 as he helped Argentina to win the Copa America. Liverpool striker, Salah is the Premier League's top goalscorer so far this season, with 16 to his name, and is arguably in the best form of his life. Bayern Munich striker, Lewandowski enjoyed another spectacular year at club level for Bayern, scoring a Bundesliga record ...

Read More

5Jan By BobbyNo Comments

Sport

Liverpool prepared to sell Neco Williams

Liverpool are prepared to sell Neco Williams this month. Sky Sports says Liverpool could allow Neco Williams to leave in this transfer window. As in the summer, the player is very conscious of his place in the Wales national team set up with World Cup qualifiers coming up in March. He therefore would like options considered this month to allow him to move for regular first team football.  

Read More

3Jan By BobbyNo Comments

Sport

Should Nigeria be worried by Troost-Ekong’s defensive failings?

The Hornets defender has struggled of late and there are fears regarding his form ahead of a major tournament 2021 was something of a breakthrough year for William Troost-Ekong, after winning promotion with Watford and making his Premier League debut - seven years after leaving Tottenham Hotspur’s academy. The Nigerian also reached some memorable milestones for the national team. The defender hit 50 caps for the Super Eagles and was named captain ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations in Cameroon. However, the final months of last year were not as rosy on the pitch.  

Read More

3Jan By BobbyNo Comments

Sport

Man Utd boss Rangnick makes clear to Van de Beek transfer stand

Manchester United boss Ralf Rangnick has announced he doesn't want to lose Donny van de Beek. The midfielder was blocked from joining Everton in August, but has remained on the outer despite a change of manager. Ahead of Monday night's clash with Wolves, Rangnick had a message for Van de Beek: "Just work hard. So far, as I have got to know him, he has got a top mentality. He works hard in every training session. "He is a team player through and through. There will be games where he will get his chance to play, I am sure. I also had a long conversation with him last week about that and again, of course it is difficult for him right now because he also wants to play for the Dutch national team, he wants to qualify for himself and play in the World Cup in Qatar and in order to do tha...

Read More

30Dec By MosesianNo Comments

Sport

Jose Peseiro: 5 things to know about new Super Eagles’ head coach

On Wednesday, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) announced Jose Peseiro as the new head coach of the national team. The Portuguese comes highly recommended by his compatriot, Jose Mourinho, according to NFF President, Amaju Pinnick. Peseiro replaces Gernot Rohr and will be at next month’s Africa Cup of Nations tournament, although Augustine Eguavoen will be in charge of the Super Eagles. What are some of the things you need to know about the new man? 1. Peseiro is 61 years old and began his coaching career in 1991 as a player-coach with Union Santarem in the Portuguese fourth tier. 2. His big break came in 2003, when he was named as an assistant to Carlos Queiroz at Real Madrid. 3. Peseiro has coached clubs in Portugal, Spain, Saudi Arabia, Greece, Romania, United Ar...

Read More

29Dec By MosesianNo Comments

Sport

Emmanuel Dennis may not play at AFCON 2021 over NFF blunder

Watford manager, Claudio Ranieri, has said he may not release Emmanuel Dennis for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations in Cameroon, because the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) sent his invitation letter late. Despite the Hornets’ poor form, Dennis has been impressive, scoring eight goals and assisting five. He is only second to Liverpool winger, Mohamed Salah, in terms of Premier League goal involvements this season. Dennis’ outstanding displays earned him a Super Eagles call-up for the 2021 AFCON. However, there is a possibility that the 24-year-old could miss the tournament. I’m not so sure I will miss him now, I don’t know if he will go,” Ranieri told Watford Observer. “Let’s think about it this week, and then I will tell you. “The national team has time to send t...

Read More

26Dec By MosesianNo Comments

Sport

Ralf Rangnick Identifies Player Manchester Utd should sign

Manchester United manager, Ralf Rangnick, has identified Bayer Leverkusen midfielder, Florian Wirtz, as a transfer target the Red Devils should sign. According to The Sun, Manchester United are’ leading the chase for the £60million-rated German youngster Wirtz’. Wirtz is regarded by many as a generational talent and made his Bundesliga debut for his club just after his 17th birthday. The 18-year-old has played for the Germany national team. Man United will no doubt face competition for Wirtz, with a number of Europe’s elite sides interested in signing him. Wirtz is an attacking midfielder and it would be interesting to see where he would fit in Rangnick’s squad that has the likes of Bruno Fernandes already nailing down that role. His current contract with Bayer Leverkus...

Read More

23Dec By MosesianNo Comments

Sport

FIFA rankings: Nigeria finish 2021 in 36th position, Belgium, Brazil occupy top 10 [Full list]

Nigeria’s senior national team has ended this year as the 36th best team in the world. The Super Eagles remain unmoved in December’s ranking published by FIFA on Thursday. The three-time African champions amassed a total of 1478.78 points to stay as the fifth-best team on the continent behind Senegal, Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia. Belgium finished number one in the world, followed by Brazil, France, England, Argentina, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Denmark, and the Netherlands, making the top 10. Others that made the list from 11-20 positions are the USA, Germany, Switzerland, Mexico, Croatia, Colombia, Uruguay, Sweden, Wales, and Senegal. The likes of Iran, Peru, Serbia, Chile, Ukraine, Japan, Poland, Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Austria, Czech Republic, Korea Republic, Russia, ...

Read More

23Dec By MosesianNo Comments

Sport

Pinnick confirms NFF met Mourinho for Super Eagles job

President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Amaju Pinnick has confirmed that they held talks with Roma manager, Jose Mourinho, as they search for a new Super Eagles head coach. Pinnick revealed this during a media parley with sports journalists in Lagos on Wednesday. The NFF boss also said the national team would get a new coach “within the next week or so”. Austin Eguavoen was appointed on an interim basis, after Gernot Rohr was sacked earlier this month. But the federation is in advanced negotiations for a permanent replacement for Rohr. “We have spoken to three top coaches. Peseiro, whose name has been going around, is one of them and I can tell you he is a top coach. “We also talked to Mladen (Krstajic). But after talking to him, he got a job with a top club...

Read More

21Dec By MosesianNo Comments

Sport

Cesar Azpilicueta’s new club revealed as Chelsea captain set to leave Stamford Bridge

Chelsea captain Cesar Azpilicueta’s possible new club has been revealed as the defender is set to leave Stamford Bridge. Azpilicueta’s current contract with Chelsea will expire at the end of the season. Despite his status as Chelsea skipper, Azpilicueta has seen his contract at the west London club run down to its final six months. Chelsea are currently preoccupied with sorting out the contract situations of Antonio Rudiger, Thiago Silva and Andreas Christensen. That has left Azpilicueta at risk of Chelsea, with the two parties currently a distance apart in negotiations. According to The Athletic, Azpilicueta is hoping to be offered the security of a multi-year contract by Chelsea, but such an offer would go against the Blues’ traditional contract structure, with the Premi...

Read More

19Dec By MosesianNo Comments

Sport

Lacazette names players to replace Aubameyang as Arsenal captain

Arsenal star, Alexandre Lacazette has named four teammates he believes will take over from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang as the next captain of the team. He said the players possess the credentials needed to lead the club through the next few weeks without a permanent captain. Aubameyang was kicked out of the position last week following a ‘disciplinary breach.’ The Gabon international striker has also been banished from the senior team and Lacazette was the captain for their trip to Elland Road where they defeated Leeds United. The frenchman named Gabriel, Albert Sambi Lokonga, Ben White and Kieran Tierney as potential captain’s. “Yes there are quite a few,” Lacazette told reporters. “Big Gabi [Gabriel] has got a huge presence and leadership at the back for example. “I ...

Read More

17Dec By MosesianNo Comments

Sport

Aguero agrees to forfeit one year wages as Barcelona terminates his contract

Barcelona are said to be grateful to Sergio Aguero for his attitude during negotiations to terminate his contract, according to Diario Sport. Aguero announced his retirement from football this week due to a heart problem. However, the Argentina striker only moved to Spain this summer and signed a two-year deal with Barca. Being aware of the financial challenges at the Nou Camp, Aguero decided to forfeit the second year of his contract. The former Manchester City player will also only collect part of his wages for this season. Aguero was able to make only five appearances for Barcelona and scored once against Real Madrid. The 32-year-old however scored 260 goals in 390 games for City, 100 in 230 for Atletico Madrid, 18 in 38 for Independiente and 41 in 101 for the Argent...

Read More

17Dec By MosesianNo Comments

Sport

Khabib Nurmagomedov names player who should’ve won Ballon d’ Or ahead of Messi

Russian mixed martial artist, Khabib Nurmagomedov, has named a player who should have won the 2021 Ballon d’Or award ahead of Paris Saint-Germain star, Lionel Messi. Last month, Messi won the 2021 Ballon d’ Or for a record-extending seventh time, beating Bayern Munich’s Robert Lewandowski and Chelsea’s Jorginho to the prize. But Nurmagomedov is convinced that Lewandowski deserved the 2021 Ballon d’Or award more than Messi. “I would give it [Ballon d’ Or] to Lewandowski or Benzema. One of them. Lewandowski. I think. Last three years, he has been the best football player,” Nurmagomedov was quoted by Sportskeeda as saying. “We can just look at his results, what he does. He has won the Champions League. He has scored more than 120 goals in the last two years for the national team...

Read More

16Dec By MosesianNo Comments

Sport

I was Surprised by my Appointment as Eagles Interim coach – Austin Eguavoen

Interim Super Eagles boss, Augustine Eguavoen said he was shocked when his name was announced as the next coach of the national team. Franco-German gaffer, Gernot Rohr was sacked by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) over the weekend after a series of not-too-good results during the World Cup qualifying series. Eguavoen said he never expected that the former Burkina Faso coach would be sacked despite a cloud hanging over his future. Technical Director of the Federation, Eguavoen was appointed to take over the managerial reins for the time being. “I would say I was shocked, I was surprised when my name was announced after a brief discussion but I thought Gernot Rohr will continue because it has always been is he going to continue is he not going to continue, w...

Read More

16Dec By MosesianNo Comments

Sport

Super Eagles: Why I turned down Advice from NFF Officials – Rohr

Former Super Eagles head coach, Gernot Rohr has insisted that he rejected advice from officials of the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, when he was in charge of the Nigeria national team. The NFF sacked Rohr from his role last Sunday and appointed former Eagles captain, Augustine Eguavoen, on interim basis pending the appointment of a permanent boss. Speaking with ESPN, Rohr revealed he didn’t follow some of the suggestions of the officials because he wanted to make players’ selection with his technical staff and not with people from outside the team. “I know Nigerians are passionate about football and everyone has their own favorites and I understand that everybody wants to see some players and we discussed it,” Rohr said. “Perhaps I didn’t follow some of the ...

Read More

15Dec By MosesianNo Comments

News

You’ve not been fair to Aubameyang – Haibeh Slams Arsenal manager, Arteta

Somali national team manager, Said Abdi Haibeh has hit out at Arsenal boss, Mikel Arteta. According to Haibeh, Arteta is showing that he is in charge of Arsenal but has not been fair to Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. On Tuesday, Aubameyang was stripped of the captaincy armband due to a ‘disciplinary breach.’ Prior to the latest development, the Gabonese international was dropped from the Arsenal’s squad that defeated Southampton 3-0 last weekend. “Aubameyang took over as captain in November 2019 and he is by far the best player that Arsenal has. His form has dropped dramatically after he signed the new deal,” Haibeh told GOAL. “However, it’s difficult when your captain is struggling to lead the team. The best interest for the team could have been supporting their...

Read More

6Dec By MosesianNo Comments

Sport

‘I am Where I am Today because of Roberto Martinez’-Belgium scout Shadab Iftikhar

Shadab Iftikhar says he owes so much to Belgium manager Roberto Martinez for a rise in the game which has just seen him make Scottish football history. British-Pakistani Ifthikar has just landed the manager's job at Highland League side Fort William in a move that will see him become the first British South Asian ever to manage in senior Scottish Football. Preston-born Ifthikar has coached all over the world after deciding when he was a teenager that he would do whatever it took to become a manager. He worked as an opposition scout for Martinez at both Wigan and Everton and was also part of Belgium's backroom staff during Euro 2020. Speaking about his relationship with Belgium boss Martinez, Ifthikar told Sky Sports News: "I don't have enough hours in the day to talk about wha...

Read More

5Dec By MosesianNo Comments

Sport

Rohr Wants Outstanding Salaries, Bonuses before Quitting Super Eagles

Under-fire Super Eagles coach Gernot Rohr has reportedly demanded the Nigeria Football Federation pay him his outstanding salaries of two months and an additional four months pay before he quits the team. Rohr, who has 12 months left on his deal with the NFF,  also asked to be paid bonuses for qualifying the Eagles for the forthcoming Africa Cup of Nations in Cameroon and World Cup playoffs a close source told PUNCH Sports Extra. The NFF and the sports ministry are said to be finalizing details concerning Rohr’s disengagement as well as the new coach to lead the national team but are yet to agree with the Franco-German over his severance pay. “The federation is broke and cannot afford to meet his (Rohr) demands of disengagement,” a close source told PUNCH Sports Extra. Mean...

Read More

4Dec By MosesianNo Comments

Sport

Ballon d’ Or: Why Lionel Messi is not world’s greatest player of all time – Rivaldo

Barcelona icon, Rivaldo has insisted that Paris Saint-Germain’s Lionel Messi is not the world’s greatest player of all time because he is yet to win a World Cup with Argentina national team. Rivaldo, who is Barcelona’s sixth top goalscorer of all time, believes Messi is behind football legend, Pele, in the world’s greatest player top three rankings. The former Brazilian international also said that Messi deserved his record seventh Ballon d’Or. DAILY POST reports that France Football named Messi as the winner of this year’s Ballon d’Or award ahead of Bayern Munich striker, Robert Lewandowski and Chelsea midfielder, Jorginho. “He [Lionel Messi] deserved the award based on his performances for Argentina as they won the Copa America – a trophy they’ve coveted for many years – an...

Read More

3Dec By MosesianNo Comments

Sport

NFF to Ratify Rohr Sacking next Week, Rules Out Nigerian coach as Replacement

Amaju Pinnick, the President of Nigeria Football Federation has reportedly briefed the Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Chief Sunday Dare on the situation regarding the sacking of Super Eagles coach, Gernot Rohr, and the hiring of his replacement. Informed sources close to the ministry revealed to Complete Sports that the NFF briefed the minister of sports on Thursday, December 2, on how Rohr will be paid off and progress made to hire a new coach even as they (NFF) promised to return next week to brief the minister further on the new coach to be hired. The Nigerian Sports site also claimed that an undisclosed Belgian coach is atop the list of coaches the NFF are considering replacing Gernot Rohr as Super Eagles coach. It was claim...

Read More

29Nov By MosesianNo Comments

Sport

Ex-Super Eagles coach, Jo Bonfrère may replace Gernot Rohr – Colin Udoh

Jo Bonfrère could make a shock return to the Super Eagles after he formally submitted his application to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF). This was revealed by the Eagles’ former media officer, Colin Udoh. Udoh also claimed current handler, Gernot Rohr, is close to being fired by the NFF. Rohr’s job has come under scrutiny following a string of poor performances and results by the national team. The NFF is currently negotiating a pay-off with the German tactician, while they interview potential candidates. “The NFF is currently in the process of paying off current coach Gernot Rohr to terminate his contract while interviewing candidates for the job,” Udoh tweeted. Bonfrere is familiar with the Super Eagles, having served as the team’s coach on two occasions and as ...

Read More

28Nov By BobbyNo Comments

News

Ballon d’ Or: Muller names player to win award this year

Bayern Munich star, Thomas Muller has backed teammate, Robert Lewandowski to win the 2021 Ballon d’ Or. Muller believes Lewandowski absolutely deserved the Ballon d’ Or this year. Lewandowski has been impressive for both Bayern Munich and the Poland national team so far this year. The striker will battle Paris Saint-Germain’s Lionel Messi to Chelsea’s Jorginho, Manchester United’s Cristiano Ronaldo, among others for the Ballon d’ Or this year. The winner of this year’s Ballon d’ Or will be announced on Monday, 29 November. “Lewy has to win it [2021 Ballon d’ Or],” Muller told Sky Deutschland. “He’s absolutely deserved it. Lewy won everything with us. Then the award was cancelled, then he went on and broke the goal-scoring record in Germany this season. “When you see wh...

Read More

24Nov By MosesianNo Comments

Sport

Luis Enrique picked as next Man United manager

Former Barcelona manager, Luis Enrique has been identified as the best option for the vacant seat at Manchester United. Former Manchester United midfielder, Owen Hargreaves, pointed out Enrique, who is currently with the national team of Spain for the position. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was sacked on Sunday after a disappointing run of results including a 4-0 loss to Watford on Saturday. Michael Carrick was installed as caretaker boss until either an interim manager, or permanent head coach, has been appointed.. Asked about the main contenders to take over at United, Hargreaves told BT Sport: “I think [Pochettino] commands respect, I think he demands work from the players. But all these names are great names. “Brendan has great experience in the league. Zidane, surely the langu...

Read More

23Nov By MosesianNo Comments

Sport

Zlatan Ibrahimovic admits brutal shoulder charge on Cesar Azpilicueta in World Cup qualifying clash was a deliberate act and that he would do it again

Zlatan Ibrahimovic has admitted his brutal shoulder charge on Cesar Azpilicueta in a World Cup qualifier last week was a deliberate act and that he would do it all over again. The 40-year-old AC Milan striker sent the Chelsea captain flying after slamming his shoulder into the back of Azpilicueta in the closing stages of Sweden's 1-0 defeat against Spain in the World Cup qualifier on Sunday. As a corner was swung into the box, Ibrahimovic smashed Spain's right back, flooring him on the spot. Speaking to The Guardian, Ibrahimovic explained the brutal shoulder charge was entirely deliberate to put the Chelsea defender in his place for 'acting big' against a younger Sweden player earlier in the game. 'The other day in the national team, I gave a tackle to [Cesar Azpilicueta]...

Read More

23Nov By BobbyNo Comments

Sport

Ex-Juventus striker Mandzukic named Croatia assistant coach

Former Juventus and AC Milan striker Mario Mandzukic has been named assistant coach of Croatia. Mandzukic kicks off his coaching career as No2 at Zlatko Dalic at the national team. Mandzukic, who retired after a six-month stint at Milan towards the end of 2020-21, has been appointed as the new assistant of Dalic at Croatia. The 35-year-old was capped 89 times by the national team, scoring 33 goals in the process. He helped Croatia to the Final of the 2018 World Cup, when they finished runners-up behind France in Russia. Mandzukic spent five years at Juventus between 2015 and 2020, before moving to Qatar and Al-Duhail.  

Read More

20Nov By MosesianNo Comments

Sport

Suarez, Cavani react to sack of Oscar Tabárez as Uruguay coach after 15 years in charge

Uruguay strikers, Luis Suarez and Edinson Cavani, have reacted to the sack of the country’s head coach, Óscar Tabárez. The Uruguayan Football Association (AUF) had on Saturday announced the departure of Tabárez from the command of his national team after 15 years. The AUF sacked Tabárez following Uruguay’s FIFA World Cup qualifying 3-0 defeat to Bolivia earlier this week. Uruguay are now in danger of missing the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar following their latest defeat to Bolivia as they are currently in seventh place. Reacting, Suarez, in a post via his Instagram account, left a heartfelt message to the Uruguayan tactician, who has been the only national team manager Suárez has known while playing for Uruguay. The Atletico Madrid forward wrote, “Thank you for making the ...

Read More

20Nov By BobbyNo Comments

Sport

Agent admits West Ham defender Alves Ibsen could leave Sunderland

West Ham defender Frederik Alves Ibsen could be on the move from loan club Sunderland. Ibsen has found himself on the bench at Sunderland in recent weeks. His agent, Christian Bysted, told bold: "It's not perfect that he does not start in League One. He plays all the cup matches, and it would have been an insanely good place to be if he played regularly in League 1. But he should preferably play more from the start. "We have a dialogue with West Ham and Sunderland in relation to what the scenario is. Alves came to the club four games into the season where they had not conceded goals. "They have a young midfielder from Manchester City who has been outstanding and the other is a Northern Irish national team player. They have done well, but for Frederik's development he should pre...

Read More

19Nov By MosesianNo Comments

Sport

I won’t interfere in Hudson-Odoi’s England snub – Chelsea coach, Tuchel

Chelsea manager, Thomas Tuchel, has reacted to Callum Hudson-Odoi’s decision to snub the call up to the England U21 team. Tuchel said he would not interfere, adding that it was Hudson-Odoi’s decision to reject the chance to play for England. DAILY POST reports that the winger recently turned down the opportunity to represent England’s Under-21 side. The 20-year-old was rather expecting a call-up to the senior national team. Speaking on the development ahead of Chelsea’s Premier League clash with Leicester City on Saturday afternoon, Tuchel said at his pre-match press conference on Friday: “It is Callum’s choice and I will not interfere. If there is something to decide, then he needs to decide. “The next chance is tomorrow, if he gets minutes, he needs to take...

Read More

19Nov By MosesianNo Comments

Sport

Rohr has Damaged Nigerian football – Ex-NFF board member, Green

A former board member of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Christopher Green, has claimed head coach of the national team, Gernot Rohr, has done a lot of damage to the country’s football. Rohr remains under pressure, despite qualifying the Super Eagles for the 2022 World Cup playoffs. Nigeria played out an uninspiring 1-1 draw with Cape Verde at home to progress into the third round of qualifying. Fans and pundits have been left unimpressed by the team’s performances lately under Rohr and Green says it has given them “a lot of heartache. He told ESPN: “To most Nigerians, to continue to see the Eagles perform this way gives a lot of heartache. “Our football is suffering. Rohr has done a lot of damage to our game because the Super Eagles is Nigeria’s flags...

Read More

17Nov By MosesianNo Comments

Sport

‘I’m a woman – Iranian women’s goalkeeper debunks claim she’s a man and threatens to sue Jordanian for demanding a ‘gender verification check’

Iranian goalkeeper, Zohreh Koudaei has denied claims she's a man after Jordanian FA accused her of not being a woman. Koudaei, 32, saved two penalties in a 4-2 shoot-out victory over Jordan in Uzbekistan on September 25, helping the Iranian women's team qualified for its first-ever Women's Asia Cup. But after the game, Jordan's FA demanded 'a gender verification check' on Koudaei from the Asian Football Federation (AFC) over her performance. Reacting to the claims, Koudaei today said emphatically: 'I am a woman. This is bullying from Jordan.' 'I will sue the Jordan FA,' she added, according to Turkish newspaper Hurriyet. The Jordan FA's letter, dated November 5, cited doubts over the 'eligibility of a participating player.' It also alleged that the Iranian women's t...

Read More

15Nov By BobbyNo Comments

Sport

Andre Ayew revels over special Ghana achievement in World Cup qualifiers

The 31-year-old reflects on his big feat against Bafana Bafana in the 2022 World Cup qualifiers on Sunday Ghana captain Andre Ayew has called it an honour to reach 100 caps for the national team. The Al Sadd attacker reached the big landmark on Sunday as the Black Stars beat South Africa 1-0 in the 2022 World Cup Africa zone group stage qualifiers to secure a ticket for the third and final round. It was indeed a special day for the 31-year-old, who received a specially framed Ghana jersey in a presentation before the match, as he registered the decisive goal from the spot to send the Black Stars through. “It’s been an honour of a lifetime to play for my country and a blessing to be able to get 100 caps. Thanks to all players and coaches who have helped me all the way. Thanks al...

Read More

15Nov By MosesianNo Comments

Sport

Manchester United goal-keeper given one condition to leave Old Trafford in January

Manchester United goalkeeper Dean Henderson has been given only one condition to make an exit from the club in January, according to The Sun, UK. The 24-year-old will only be allowed to leave if he agrees to an 18-month loan move away from Old Trafford. The goalkeeper only returned from a two-year loan spell with Sheffield United in 2020. David De Gea has improved his form sharply this season and Henderson has started just once in all competitions after the England international was almost taking over the number one spot last season. However, Manchester United still believe Henderson could be the long-term first choice at Old Trafford. The Red Devils feel a loan spell would benefit both the goalkeeper and the club but the newspaper claimed Henderson must agree to an 18-mon...

Read More

13Nov By MosesianNo Comments

Sport

Ahmed Musa overtakes Enyeama, Yobo to become most-capped Super Eagles player

Nigeria captain, Ahmed Musa, now holds the record for most appearances made for the national team. The 29-year-old has eclipsed Joseph Yobo and Vincent Enyeama. Musa reached this milestone after coming on to replace Kelechi Iheanacho in the 86th minute of a 2022 World Cup qualifier against Liberia on Saturday. The winger had equalled Yobo and Enyeama’s record having earned his 101st cap in the 2-0 win over the Central African Republic on October 10. Musa made his senior debut on August 5, 2010, in the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Madagascar. He scored his first goal for the Super Eagles in an international friendly against Kenya in March 2011 and has played at two AFCON tournaments as well as two FIFA World Cups

Read More

12Nov By MosesianNo Comments

Sport

Why I chose to play for Germany over Nigeria, England – Ex-Man City forward, Nmecha

Former Manchester City forward, Lucas Nmecha, has said that he chose to represent Germany ahead of Nigeria and England because he was born in the country. Nmecha, who currently plays for Wolfsburg, was born in Hamburg to a Nigerian father before moving to England at the age of seven. The 22-year-old is eligible to play for any of the three countries as a result of this. Nmecha represented England at the youth level before he decided to switch international allegiance to Germany. He recently received his first call-up to the Germany national team in the latest international break. “I was born here, I just have more of a connection with the German national team,” Nmecha told the Bundesliga media channel. He added, “Also, at the time, the coach Stefan Kuntz really convin...

Read More

12Nov By BobbyNo Comments

Sport

USMNT coach Berhalter questions lack of Mexico respect ahead of World Cup qualifier

The CONCACAF rivals will clash on Friday night following two exciting summer duels United States men's national team head coach Gregg Berhalter has questioned the level of respect from Mexico as the sides approach their World Cup qualifying clash on Friday night. Berhalter said he's heard that El Tri believes the USMNT still wants to be like them despite wins in the Nations League and Gold Cup finals over the summer. He hopes his players can earn more admiration from their peers with a standout performance in their upcoming game.

Read More

12Nov By MosesianNo Comments

Sport

Liberia vs Nigeria: Real reason Ighalo returned to Super Eagles

Odion Ighalo has returned to the Nigerian national team after talks with head coach Gernot Rohr. The 32-year-old had announced his retirement in July 2019, after finishing as top scorer at the Africa Cup of Nations that year. Ighalo had initially threatened to retire after Nigerians blamed him for the Super Eagles’ exit from the 2018 World Cup in Russia. The former Watford and Manchester United star missed some chances in the final group match against Argentina, which later cost the team as they lost 2-1. Following the game, he received threats and insults on his Instagram page, which forced him to lock his comments section. However, he was talked out of quitting by Rohr and President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Amaju Pinnick. Rohr had been in talks with I...

Read More

11Nov By BobbyNo Comments

Sport

World Cup qualifiers: ‘Big brother’ Ighalo’s return is good for Super Eagles – Osimhen

The former Manchester United star was recalled to the national team, over two years after he announced his retirement Napoli talisman Victor Osimhen has described Odion Ighalo’s return to the Super Eagles’ fold as a good development for the team ahead of their 2022 World Cup qualifiers against Liberia and Cape Verde. Ighalo initially decided not to play for Nigeria again after the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt where he clinched the Golden Boot with five goals in seven matches. The Al Shabab striker is the seventh-highest goalscorer in Super Eagles history with a tally of 16 goals after playing 35 international matches and he was surprisingly recalled for their qualifying games in November.  

Read More

11Nov By MosesianNo Comments

Sport

Liberia vs Nigeria: Osimhen speaks on Ighalo’s return to Super Eagles

Napoli striker, Victor Osimhen has opened up on how he feels about the return of Odion Ighalo to the national team. Handlers of the Super Eagles recalled Ighalo to the national team for the World Cup qualifying matches against Liberia and Cape Verde citing the need for experienced players in the squad. The former Manchester United striker retired from the Super Eagles more than two years ago. Other young strikers such as Taiwo Awuniyi, who is making waves in Germany, Paul Onuachu, among other are taking Europe by storm yet Nigerian coach recalled Ighalo from retirement. Asked about the return of the striker, Osimhen told the Super Eagles media team that he is looking forward to playing with him, adding, “It’s good for the team and of course the coaches and the Federation know...

Read More

10Nov By BobbyNo Comments

Sport

Spain boss Luis Enrique doesn’t have an anti-Madrid agenda – Carvajal

The Blancos star spoke highly of his national team coach and ruled out any prospect of bias against players from Barca's arch-rivals Real Madrid star Dani Carvajal has dismissed the notion that Spain boss Luis Enrique holds something against players from his club, while admitting that a World Cup without the Roja would be hard for him to take. Luis Enrique famously crossed the Clasico divide from Madrid to Barcelona as a player, becoming a hero at the latter club while the Santiago Bernabeu turned its wrath on him at every opportunity. He then coached the Blaugrana to a pair of La Liga titles. That rivalry has now crossed over into the international game, with accusations that the coach is less willing to pick Blancos stars past and present such as centre-back Sergio Ramos, who wa...

Read More

10Nov By BobbyNo Comments

Sport

World Cup Qualifiers: Rookie Ouma named in Harambee Stars final squad for Uganda match

The Turkish tactician has named his final squad for the fixture against the Cranes at St Mary’s Kitende Stadium on Thursday Harambee Stars coach Engin Firat has named rookie Nairobi City Stars midfielder Timothy “Babu” Ouma in the final squad for Thursday’s 2022 Fifa World Cup qualifier against Uganda. The national team left for Kampala on Wednesday in readiness for their fifth Group E match against the Cranes at St Mary’s Kitende Stadium in Kampala.  

Read More

8Nov By MosesianNo Comments

Sport

Wenger reveals why he rejected Man Utd job

Legendary Arsenal manager, Arsene Wenger, has claimed Manchester United were one of the clubs he turned down. When the club’s new owner, Stan Kroenke, bought a majority share in the club, Wenger revealed he questioned whether he made the right decision to sign a three-year extension. “I still today wonder if I did the right thing, because life was never exactly the same after [Dein’s departure]. “I thought I had to go to the end of this project, but I could’ve gone to the French national team, England national team twice or three times. I could’ve gone to Real Madrid twice, Juventus, Paris Saint-Germain, even to Manchester United. “My fatal flaw is I loved too much where I am… where I was.” Wenger eventually left Arsenal in 2018 after 22 years at the helm. Since his exi...

Read More

5Nov By MosesianNo Comments

Sport

W/Cup qualifiers: You’ve missed an opportunity – Southgate reacts as Hudson-Odoi turns down England call-up

Chelsea winger, Callum Hudson-Odoi has rejected call-up to the England Under-21 national team. The 20-year-old Chelsea star has been in excellent form for Thomas Tuchel’s side in recent weeks. But his recent performance for the west London side could not secure a place in the Gareth Southgate’s England senior squad for their World Cup qualifiers against Albania and San Marino. Hudson-Odoi, who is still eligible to represent Ghana rejected the chance to play for the Under-21 side. This did not go down well with Southgate, who believes that the player has missed an opportunity by turning down the call-up. Southgate has revealed that the winger is keen to force his way into the senior squad by impressing at Chelsea. “…So by not being in the Under-21s he[Callum]misses a bit...

Read More

4Nov By MosesianNo Comments

Sport

Crystal Palace star Wilfried Zaha rejects call-up to the Ivory Coast national team due to homesickness

Crystal Palace star, Wilfried Zaha has turned down a call-up to the Ivory Coast national team this month and is considering retiring from international football. Ivory Coast national team boss Patrice Beaumelle revealed on Thursday that he 28-year-old attacker gets homesick during each international break, and that is the reason why he did not name him in his 25-man squad for their World Cup qualifiers against Mozambique and Cameroon. Zaha has played just three matches for the Elephants in 2021 and did not feature for his country in the June and September international breaks. 'He asked not to come because he becomes home sick at each break,' said Beaumelle after announcing his squad without Zaha in it. 'He wants to reflect on the rest of his international career.' Zaha has m...

Read More

2Nov By MosesianNo Comments

Sport

Ballon d’ Or: Why I don’t think about winning award – Messi

Paris Saint-Germain star, Lionel Messi has said that he doesn’t think about winning his 7th Ballon d’ Or because his biggest prize was to achieve success with the Argentine national team. Messi was last month nominated among a 30-man shortlist for the 2021 Ballon d’ Or. The former Barcelona captain won the Copa America with Argentina this year. When asked about his thoughts on potentially winning his 7th Ballon d’Or award this year, Messi told Sport: “Achieving a Seventh Ballon D’Or would be an extraordinary madness. “If I am honest with you, I don’t think about the Ballon d’Or. My biggest prize was to achieve success with the national team. “Having fought and fought so hard for that achievement was the ultimate goal. A seventh would be crazy. But if not, no problem.” M...

Read More

2Nov By BobbyNo Comments

Sport

Bale in line for 100th Wales cap after call up for World Cup qualifiers

The 32-year-old has not featured since early September but Wales boss Robert Page says he is fit and ready to return for the national team Gareth Bale is in line to earn his 100th cap for Wales after being recalled to the squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifying matches. Robert Page's team will face Belarus and Belgium this month in their final matches of the qualifying round. Bale, who has made 99 appearances for his country, has played only three times for Real Madrid this season, having been kept out of action with a knee injury since early September.  

Read More