Super Eagles head coach Jose Peseiro is sweating over the fitness of Emmanuel Dennis and Innocent Bonke ahead of his side’s 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against the Leone Stars of Sierra Leone, reports Completesports.com.

The duo sat out Monday’s training at the practice pitch of the Moshood Abiola Stadium, Abuja.
Dennis recently recovered from the injury he picked up while in action for his club, Watford.

The versatile forward missed the Hornets last three games of the campaign as a result of the setback.
Dennis however featured as a second half substitute in Nigeria’s friendly defeat to Ecuador last week.

Bonke is yet to fully shake off the injury he picked up in the first half of Nigeria’s
friendly defeat against Mexico .

The team has enough cover in midfield and attack should both players fail to recover before the game on Thursday.

The Super Eagles will host the Leone Stars at the Moshood Abiola Stadium, Abuja on Thursday.

Source: https://www.completesports.com/2023-afconq-dennis-bonke-doubtful-for-sierra-leone-clash/

Vice-Chairman and President of NBA side Toronto Raptors and co-founder Giants of Africa, Masai Ujiri, has written an open letter to the Ministry of Sports and the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) over the two-year self-imposed ban on the country’s national teams from all international basketball competitions.

Following the crises bedeviling leadership of the NBBF, in a statement from the Ministry of Sports in May, President Muhammadu Buhari approved the withdrawal of Nigeria’s immediate withdrawal from all international basketball tournaments for two years.


Due to the ban, world basketball body, FIBA, announced that Mali will replace Nigeria’s senior women’s team, D’Tigress, at this year’s World Cup in Australia which will begin in September.

And reacting to the two-year ban and the exclusion of D’Tigress from this year’s Women’s basketball World Cup, Ujiri in his open letter published on giantsofafrica.org wrote: “Enough is enough,” Ujiri began.

“From the Ministry of Sports to the Nigerian Basketball Federation (NBBF), the leaders of the basketball ecosystem in Nigeria continue to rob our youth of their present and future while tearing the entire basketball community apart – this needs to stop.

“The ongoing senseless power struggle involving the NBBF has resulted in a two year selfimposed ban by the Minister of Sports (an outgoing Minister imposing a ban that in reality would have a four year destructive implication) that prohibits Nigerian basketball teams from entering international competitions.

“This is a symptom of an issue that has permeated the sports ecosystem for years. When leaders put self interest over national interest, the innocent suffer. It’s time for them to step aside, for the good of the game, the nation, and the athletes.

“The women’s team will be unable to compete in September’s World Cup. The men’s chances to qualify for the Paris Olympics are in peril. Nigeria’s basketball community is left feeling profoundly disappointed and deflated. This is a national shame.

“We all know Nigeria is teeming with talent. The country has made leaps and bounds in basketball and has risen to the top. The opening of an NBA office in Nigeria further signifies the country’s importance in the global basketball ecosystem.

“Even international governing sports body, FIBA has openly acknowledged its importance on the global sports scene, but yet at times, they have stood on the sidelines making a mockery of the situation. FIBA Africa has also contributed to this drama.

“Now, instead of being able to watch D’Tigress compete on the world stage, or cheer the first ever Nigerian head coach to lead a team in the NBA Finals, the headlines blare that our young athletes have been banned from international competition – competitions they have trained and worked tirelessly for – because of the acts of individuals who don’t understand what it means to play for the team. It’s not right. It’s not fair. This will drive patriotic Nigerian athletes to play for other countries.

“We know how we got here. Nigeria has traditionally treated sports as purely recreational, not for what it is, a serious business and a tool for nation building and economic transformation. But we all know the drill. A tournament is coming. We hear there is no money. People scramble to put money together. Tournament commences and athletes are treated carelessly. Tournament ends. Athletes are angry. Government releases money at a later date. No accountability or transparency on how much was released and how it was spent. And the truth is that we’re not just speaking about basketball here.

“When is this going to change? In other parts of Africa, we’re seeing the impact of sports and infrastructure development in the advancement of the national agenda, while the Giant of Africa stands idly, engrained with decision makers that lack the vision and expertise required to nurture the talent and abilities the country presents. When will a leader actually change this cycle?

“The time for change is now. I know all athletes, leaders and stakeholders in African sport will not give up on Nigerian basketball, and we will not give up on the youth. It’s time for us to move forward. We need a new slate and a new narrative. To do this, all of the leaders that have held on to the realms of the Nigerian Basketball Federation for the past several years must all step down.

Source: https://www.completesports.com/masai-ujiri-open-letter-to-nigerias-sports-ministry-nbbf-on-ban-of-basketball/

Ex-Nigeria international, Ifeanyi Udeze, has suggested that Super Eagles technical adviser Jose Peseiro is under pressure to lead the team to victory in the first 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Sierra Leone on Thursday.

Peseiro has lost the two matches he has been in charge of since his appointment in May. The Eagles lost to 2-1 Mexico in an international friendly in Texas, United States of America, last week, and another 1-0 defeat in the hands of Ecuador a few days later in New Jersey.

Four home-based players got the chance to make their debut for the Eagles in the friendlies. However, Peseiro did not include any of them in his 27-man squad invited for the clashes against Sierra Leone and Sao Tome and Principe.

Speaking with Complete Sports on Sunday, as the attention now shifts towards Nigeria’s game against the Leone Stars at the Moshood Abiola national stadium in Abuja on June 9, the former left-back states that the Portuguese is now desperate for his first win as the head coach of the national team.

The ex-West Bromwich Albion defender notesthat the 62-year-old tactician wants to make do with the foreign players to get the desired outcome, adding that it does not mean he lacks confidence in the home-based players.

“I think for now, he just want to do with foreign-based players for now, and see, it does not mean he does not have confidence in the home-based players, but I think for now, he is under pressure, he put himself under pressure because he wants to get his first win, which will be very, very important to him,” Udeze started.

“The home-based players should just calm down, I think they will have their own opportunity also to play some games.”

Nigeria has not got the better of the Leone Stars in the last two competitive meetings. The qualifiers for the 2021 AFCON between the two countries ended 4-4 in Benin City and goalless in the reverse fixture in Freetown.

Udeze, however, expects the team to show character and hunger, particularly coming on the heels of the defeats in the friendly matches.

“I want to see character, I want to see a different approach, I want to see a situation whereby they have a different mentality; mentality to win games. That is what I’m looking forward to,” he explained.

Source;' https://www.completesports.com/peseiro-now-under-pressure-to-win-first-match-as-eagles-coach-vs-sierra-leone-udeze/

Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi has reacted to the team’s defeat to Ecuador and second consecutive friendly game loss.



The Eagles lost to the South Americans 1-0 in New Jersey days after going down 2-1 to Mexico in Dallas, Texas, in coach Jose Peseiro’s first game in charge of the national team.

Iwobi, who had a very impressive second half of the 2021/22 Premier League season for Everton, played for 90 minutes in both games.



The 26-year-old had missed the 2022 World Cup playoff against the Black Stars of Ghana due suspension, after he was sent off in Nigeria’s Round of 16 clash at the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) against Tunisia in Cameroon.

His commendable run for the Toffees in the last 12 league matches of last season saw him return to the national team set-up since January.



In a post on Twitter, the former Arsenal winger noted that there is still a long way to go in Peseiro’s team building process. He, however, urged that faith must be shown in the process.

Source: https://www.completesports.com/iwobi-appeals-to-fans-on-super-eagles-rebuilding-trust-the-process/

The Super Eagles’ preparations for Thursday’s 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match against the Leone Stars of Sierra Leone got a boost on Sunday as Victor Osimhen, Sadiq Umar and Ademola Lookman trained with the rest of the team in Abuja.

Nigeria’s Friendly matches against Mexico and against Ecuador in the United States kick-started the preparations as the country’s race to make her 20th appearance at the continental football showpiece holding in Ivory Coast next year gets underway.

Only three of the 27 invited players; Calvin Bassey, Joseph Ayodele-Aribo, both of whom featured in the friendly games in the US, and Abdullahi Shehu, who returned to the country last week from his base in Cyprus, were not part of Sunday’s training.

Technical Adviser José Santos Peseiro took charge of the training and captain Ahmed Musa led the playing body that included goalkeepers; Francis Uzoho, Adewale Adeyinka and Adebayo Adeleye, and defenders Olaoluwa Aina, William Ekong, Zaidu Sanusi, Chidozie Awaziem, Oluwasemilogo Ajayi, Leon Balogun, Sani Faisal and Kenneth Omeruo were also in the training session.

There were also midfielders; Alex Iwobi, Oghenekaro Etebo, Innocent Bonke and Frank Onyeka, and forwards Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon, Victor Osimhen, Cyriel Dessers, Ademola Lookman, Sadiq Umar, Terem Moffi and Emmanuel Dennis in action.

Peseiro also used the opportunity to meet and familiarize with players who were unable to make it to the United States for the friendlies. They are: skipper Musa, Sanusi Balogun, Etebo, Chukwueze, Umar and Lookman, Onyeka, Osimhen and Adeleye all of whom who were not invited to the friendlies in America but have been called for the AFCON qualifiers.

The Eagles will face the Leone Stars at the Moshood Abiola national stadium on Thursday in their first Group A game of the qualifiers, before flying to Marrakech, Morocco,

Source: https://www.completesports.com/osimhen-sadiq-lookman-lead-24-eagles-in-training-ahead-afcon-qualifier-vs-sierra-leone/

Tennis superstar Rafael Nadal has revealed that he could call time on his illustrious 21-year career as soon as the end of the French Open due to a flare up of his foot injury.

The world No.5 put on an inspirational display to defeat fierce rival Novak Djokovic in the quarter finals despite the chronic injury that has plagued him since 2005.

The Spaniard toppled the highest seeded men’s player, 6-2, 4-6, 6-2, 7-6(4) on his favourite clay surface in a four set epic battle that lasted more than four hours in Paris.

Nadal was forced to comeback from a 5-2 deficit in the fourth set to land himself a spot in the semi-finals where he will play world No.3 Alexander Zverev

The 35-year-old, who will celebrate his 36th birthday on Friday, remained tight-lipped about playing future Grand Slams in his post-match courtside interview.

“To win against Novak there’s only one way — to play at your best since the first point until the last,” the 13-time French Open champion, said in front of a Nadal-favoured crowd.

“And tonight it was one of this magic nights for me. Unexpected level.

“Without a doubt there’s no other place like this one for me. It’s the most important court of my career, the most special one.

“And as I said, for me to feel the love of everyone here in Paris means everything to me.”
Meanwhile, Djokovic has played down Rafael Nadal’s injury issues, saying he looked ‘100% physically fit’ in Tuesday night’s French Open quarter-final, while he claims almost the entire crowd were on the Spaniard’s side.

But Djokovic appeared to play down the severity of Nadal’s injury issues, saying he did not see any signs of discomfort out on court, and suggested the Spaniard always finds a way to raise his game when it matters.

‘I think the crowd contributed a lot to the turnaround in the fourth set,’ said the Serb. ‘They were 99.9% by his side and they lifted him up in crucial moments. They helped him to find his energy.’

Source: https://www.completesports.com/french-open-nadal-doubles-down-on-retirement-after-knocking-out-djokovic/
.

Kenneth Omeruo has bemoaned Leganes’ failure to secure promotion to Laliga Santander in the just concluded Laliga SmartBank season.

Leganes had aimed to return to the Spanish top flight league last season after they were relegated in 2020. However, they finished 12th on the log.
While Almeria striker and compatriot Sadiq Umar is relishing a great time in the top division next campaign or a move to a bigger club after helping his side to win Laliga 2 championship and securing promotion, Omeruo, who scored two goals last season in 17 league games, including against Almeria on the final day, will have to spend another season in the division one.

In a post he made on social media to reflect on the season, the 28-year-old found something to cheer, and noted that the team will “go again”.
He wrote: “Great way to finish the league…unfortunately, our goal wasn’t achieved…we go again…vamos Lega.”

Omeruo played 19 games in all competitions for CD Leganes in the 2021/22 campaign. The centre-back played 17 Laliga2 games and scored two goals as Leganes finished 12th in the Spanish second tier league. He also played two Copa del Rey matches, and made one goal assist.

Source: https://www.completesports.com/omeruo-regrets-leganes-failure-to-secure-laliga-promotion/

Valentine Ozornwafor has been called up for Nigeria’s 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against the Leone Stars of Sierra Leone and the Dodos of Mauritius.

Ozornwafor, 22, will link up with the team in Abuja when they return from the United States of America.

Belgian Pro League club Sporting Charleroi confirmed the centre-back’s Invitation for the qualifiers.

“Our African internationals will play several qualifying matches for the next African Cup of Nations,” reads a statement on the club’s official website.

“Valentine Ozornwafor, selected with Nigeria, will face Sierra Leone before traveling to Mauritius.”

The defender has been capped once at the senior level by Nigeria.

The former Enyimba player was first called up to the full side in March 2019, for a friendly game against Seychelles and Egypt, but was only an unused substitute.

Ozornwafor debuted with Nigeria in a 1–0 friendly loss to the Indomitable Lions of Cameroon in June 2021.

The former Almeria star has also represented Nigeria at the U-20 level. He featured at the 2019 Africa U-20 Cup of Nations and the 2019 FIFA U-20 World Cup.

Ozornwafor has also played for the Nigeria U-23 team in the past.

The Super Eagles will open their AFCON 2023 qualifying campaign against Sierra Leone at the Moshood Abiola Stadium, Abuja on June 9.

Jose Peseiro’s side will face Mauritius four days later in St Pierre.

Source: https://www.completesports.com/ozornwafor-gets-invitation-for-super-eagles-afcon-qualifiers/

Everton striker Richarlison has revealed that he has not decided his future with the club.

Richarlison has confirmed he is considering his future amid interest from Tottenham, Chelsea and Arsena

The 25-year-old has become a cult hero at Goodison Park since his transfer from Watford for an initial £35million in 2018 and played a pivotal role during the club’s relegation battle this season, with six goals in nine games to help them to safety.

However, asked about his next move while on international duty, he said: “I’ve already made it clear to the board. I’ve already talked to (manager Frank) Lampard too, with my agents and they know what I want. Let’s wait for June.



“Now I can’t talk, because when we talk about leaving a club I’m kind of like this, because of the history I have at Everton, the affection that the fans have for me. When we talk about leaving I’m a little speechless.”



It remains to be seen if Everton will entertain letting Richarlison leave given his importance to the team – he has two years to run on his existing deal so Everton are under no immediate pressure to make a decision on his future.



But given the club’s well-documented financial situation, Everton could consider selling Richarlison this summer to help balance the books while any revenue generated could be used to reinvest into Lampard’s squad ahead of next season.



Similarly, it is likely Richarlison would consider a move away from Goodison Park this summer, particularly if he has the opportunity to join a team that could offer him with a chance of challenging for major trophies.

Source: https://www.completesports.com/ive-not-decided-my-future-at-everton-richarlison/[b][/b]

Chidozie Awaziem has assured Nigerians to expect nothing but the best from the Super Eagles, when they face Ecuador in their next friendly game in New Jersey, USA.

The Eagles will take on Ecuador in the early hours of Friday in the second of two friendlies lined up for them.

In the first friendly against Mexico, the Eagles lost 2-1 with Cyriel Dessers opening his international goal account

And ahead of the next fixture against Ecuador, Awaziem explained what makes new head coach Jose Peseiro different.

“We are all prepared for the second game against Ecuador and training session went well,” he said on NFF TV.

“Everyone was ready in training and it was really a tough one. But I hope we will all be ready for the game against Ecuador and everyone is really in a good shape.

“The coach is someone who likes to play football, who likes his team to enjoy themselves in the game and also have control of the game. He is a coach that pushes a lot to the players and right now he push us a lot and he tries to possess the game as much as possible.

“Nigerians should expect nothing but the best. We always giving our best to come out with victory. As we know Super Eagles, we always want to win and this is our culture and we always want to give our best even if it is a friendly or in competitions.”

Awaziem added:”Right now we are just focused on the game game against Ecuador to make sure we come out with a good one.”

The Eagles will be targeting a first win since defeating Guinea-Bissau 2-0 in their final group game at the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations in Cameroon in January.

Since the win against Guinea-Bissau, the Eagles have gone four consecutive games without emerging victors, losing two and drawing two.

After the friendly against Ecuador, their next assignment will be the 2023 AFCON qualifiers against Sierra Leone and Mauritius.

They will host Sierra Leone on June 9 before going away to face Mauritius on June 13.

[b]Source: https://www.completesports.com/nigerians-should-expect-the-best-from-us-awaziem-speaks-ahead-super-eagles-vs-ecuador-friendly/

Super Eagles head coach Jose Peseiro has expressed his love for attacking football, reports Completesports.com.

The Super Eagles are noted for their attacking brand of football.
The West Africans exhibited that in their 2-1 defeat to the El Tri of Mexico on Sunday.

Peseiro hinted that he is not willing to jettison that in subsequent outings.

My philosophy as a coach is to play attacking football,” Peseiro after the game against Mexico.

“I love my team to score and pressure the opponent, this is the best way to unsettle your opponent and win games.

“That is how we played in the second half against Mexico.

“And we will work more ahead of the Ecuador game.”

Source: https://www.completesports.com/i-love-attacking-football-peseiro-unveils-plans-for-super-eagles/

Ecuador head coach Gustavo Alfaro has released his 25-man squad for the friendly against the Super Eagles of Nigeria, reports Completesports.com.

La Tri will take on the Super Eagles in a friendly at the Red Bull Arena Harrison, New Jersey on June 2nd.

The South Americans have also lined up friendlies against Mexico and another African side Cape Verde.

Ecuador will also take on Mexico and Cape Verde on June 5 and June 11 respectively.

Brighton & Hove Albion star Moises Caicedo, Villarreal defender, Pervis Estupian and veteran forward Enner Valencia are some of the big stars named in the squad by Alfaro.

THE FULL SQUAD

Goalkeepers
Hernan Galindez, Moises Ramirez, Alexander Dominguez

Defenders
Robert Arboleda, Piero Hincapie, Felix Tores, Xavier Arreaga, Diego Palacios, Bryon Castillo, Jackson Corozo, Pervis Estupian

Midfielders
Alexander Alvarado, Alan Franco, Gonzalo Plata, Dixon Arroyo, Romario Ibarra, Jeremy Sarmiento, Moises Caicedo, Angel Mena, Jose Cifuentes, Jhegson Mendez,

Forwards
Leonardo Campana, Michael Estrada, Djorkaeff Reasco, Enner Valencia

Source" https://www.completesports.com/friendly-ecuador-coach-unleashes-villarreal-brighton-fenerbahce-stars-on-super-eagles/

The United Kingdom government on Wednesday approved the £4.25bn takeover of Premier League club Chelsea by a consortium led by LA Dodgers co-owner Todd Boehly.Chelsea was put up for sale in March in the aftermath of Russia invasion of Ukraine
Russian businessman Roman Abramovich put up the club for sale before he was sanctioned by the government over his claimed links to Russian president Vladimir Putin.

On Tuesday, the Premier League said the consortium had passed its owners’ and directors’ test.
“Late last night the UK government reached a position where we could issue a licence that permits the sale of Chelsea,” a government spokesperson said in a statement on Wednesday.

“The government does not want Abramovich to receive any of the proceeds from the sale, which will instead go into a frozen bank account to be donated to charity.

The statement added: “Following the sanctioning of Roman Abramovich, the government has worked hard to ensure Chelsea has been able to continue to play football. But we have always been clear that the long-term future of the club could only be secured under a new owner.
“Following extensive work, we are now satisfied that the full proceeds of the sale will not benefit Roman Abramovich or any other sanctioned individual. We will now begin the process of ensuring the proceeds of the sale are used for humanitarian causes in Ukraine, supporting victims of the war.

“The steps today will secure the future of this important cultural asset and protect fans and the wider football community. We have been in discussions with relevant international partners for necessary licences required and we thank them for all their cooperation.”

Sourcehttps://www.completesports.com/uk-government-approves-boehlys-4-25bn-takeover-of-chelsea/

Super Eagles striker Cyriel Dessers says he is the kind of player who enjoys featuring in pressure games.

Dessers is expected to feature for Feyenoord in the final of the maiden Europa Conference League against AS Roma today (Wednesday).

This is Feyenoord’s first appearance in a major UEFA club competition since 2002.

Dessers played a key role in Feyenoord’s run to the final after contributing 10 goals in 11 games.

And looking forward to the final with Jose Mourinho’s side, the Belgian-born Nigerian in an interview with Het Nieuwsblad said:”I’ve been lucky enough to have played quite a few finals: Play-Offs and European football finals.

“I’ve also played important promotions (NAC Breda) but that’s a different kind of pressure. But as a footballer you have to be able to put that off on the pitch.

“I am a player who likes pressure and can handle it very well. Until now I have almost always scored in semi-finals and finals, that gives confidence for this match. I want to be standing with the cup in my hands.”

This would be Mourinho’s fifth appearance in the final of a European competition.

He won the Europa Cup with Porto and Manchester United (2003, 2017) and the Champions League during his time at Porto and Inter Milan (2004, 2010).

But Dessers believes the Portuguese will be wary of the threat Feyenoord pose.

He added:”I respect Mourinho, but we should not be afraid: this is a game with two other teams that stands alone. He will also look at us with respect and be wary of us.

“We know how they play and what we can expect. Now it’s up to us to put something in return. I look forward to the final with confidence.”

Source: https://www.completesports.com/im-a-player-who-likes-pressure-dessers-speaks-ahead-feyenoord-vs-roma-uecl-final/

Alex Iwobi has described the 2021/22 campaign as the “most mentally challenging of his career, reports Completesports.com.

The Toffees managed to escape the drop in a tough campaign which saw Rafa Benitez lost his job.
Iwobi barely featured under the Spaniard, with his inconsistent displays a source of worry.\

The Nigerian international however became a key member of the squad under Frank Lampard.

The versatile winger was handed a starting shirt in the 3-1 home win against Leeds United in February and took the opportunity with both hands.

Iwobi became a regular afterwards and won over the fans, most of whom had criticised him for his inconsistent performances since his arrival from Arsenal in 2019.

Everton’s Premier League status was confirmed after a dramatic 3-2 comeback win against Crystal Palace in the penultimate game of the season.

An elated Iwobi took to the social media to describe his feeling after a tough campaign with Everton.

“The Most Mentally Challenging Season Of My Career So Far Is Over And I’m Proud To Have Come Out Of The Other Side Stronger, Sharper And Hungrier Than Ever!,Iwobi wrote on his Twitter handle.

He featured in 28 league games for the Toffees during the 2021/22 campaign, with two goals to his name.

Source: https://www.completesports.com/iwobi-thankful-after-most-mentally-challenging-season-with-everton/

Mexico have arrived Dallas, United States of America ahead of their international friendly against the Super Eagles of Nigeria, reports Completesports.com.

The players and their officials arrived Dallas on Tuesday morning.

The El Tri will take on the Super Eagles at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, USA on Saturday

Gerardo Martino’s men are expected to train later in the day as they continue their preparations ahead of the highly anticipated friendly.

As part of their US tour, the North Americans will also tackle Uruguay and Ecuador.

Mexico will also face Suriname and Jamaica in the Nations League next month.

The Super Eagles have another friendly against Ecuador at the Red Bull Arena, Harrison on June 2.

Mexico and Nigeria have met seven times in the past, four of which have ended in draws.

The most recent game was a resounding 4-0 mauling of Nigeria by El Tri at the Memorial Coliseum Stadium in Los Angeles, California, in July 2021.

Source: https://www.completesports.com/mexico-hit-us-for-super-eagles-friendly/

Feyenoord striker Cyriel Dessers says he is ready to give over 100% on Wednesday when his club, Feyernoord face Jose Mourinho’s AS Roma in the final of the UEFA Europa Conference League at the Arena Kombetare in Tirana, Albania.

“I hope it’s going to be the greatest game of my life,” ten-goal UEFA Europa Conference League top scorer told Uefa.com as Feyenoord gear up for the final against Jose Mourinho’s Roma. in

Going into the Wednesday Europa Conference League final, the Super Eagles of Nigeria striker leads the competitions top scorers’ chat with an imperious10 goals and two assists from 12 games, one more than Roma’s Tammy Abraham who has nine goals.

The 27 year old who joined Feyenoord as a loanee from KRC Genk in August 2021, also has nine Eredivisie goals and two assists to his name this season.

Dessers told Uefa.com in an interview ahead of time the UEFA Conference League final that he was grateful to his teammates for the collective team performances that got him scoring and rising to the top of the competitions top scorers’ list. And he is ready to play “the greatest game of my life” as a “top sportsman”.

“I’m really looking forward to it. Playing finals is all you care about when you’re a top sportsman and especially special matches like these against Roma; that goes without saying. I’m really looking forward to it and I hope it’s going to be the greatest game of my life,” Dessers told Uefa.com.

“We are confident. We’re not afraid of the big name of Roma. We are aware of our qualities; we know what we can do. We will have to be at our best, that’s for sure, but we also know that if we are, we can beat almost every team.”

“We know what to expect. We are well prepared. If we just do our thing and play our best, everything is possible.”

Dessers says he enjoys fantastic feeling being the Ruropa Conference League top scorer so far with ten goals.

“It’s a fantastic feeling. To get into double figures as a striker is something you work towards in pre-season. When you can do that in a European competition, that’s very special. I realise it puts me in a special list of players for this season, [not just] at the European level, but also for the club. At Feyenoord, I am moving up the list, which is very rewarding,” he said.

“It’s because of the team that I can be in that position and score those goals. I don’t just mean assists or passes I get from the team, but also defensive [work]. We want to press so high, which means our defenders are often in one-on-one situations or play with a lot of space behind. I might be the one cheering after the goal, but it really is the entire team that makes that possible, as clichéd as that may sound. I have to be the focal point and be in the right place.”

On his playing style, Dessers added: “I think I’m an all-round striker. Many strikers are really tall, or really fast, or [have] other extremes. I don’t have that. I can play with my back towards the goal, I can hold the ball up, I can run deep towards the goal, I can score with my left and right foot; when I’m in front of the goal, I don’t have any doubts about scoring with my left foot, for example.

“I’ve also scored some nice goals with my head this season, so I think I am quite an all-round player without being extreme in anything. But I can always do better, of course, and that’s something I work on very hard every day.”

Asked about Feyenoord’s passionate supporters, Dessers recalls that as a kid, he dreamt playing in front that that of vociferous fans.

“I grew up watching the Eredivisie and, whenever I saw Feyenoord play, I always thought, “Wow, that’s an amazing stadium. I would like to play there sometime.” And the fans, they’re one of a kind,” he recalled.

“They definitely live up to their reputation. Already from the start, I had this feeling we might have a connection. They are so loving, and I love them back, so it goes both ways.
To have such a connection with the fans at a club like Feyenoord, I will never forget that when I look back on my career later.

“The Feyenoord fans really wanted to keep me here for another season, so they started a crowdfunding campaign. We will have to wait to see if they succeed.”

Source: https://www.completesports.com/roma-vs-feyenoord-dessers-raring-for-game-of-my-life-in-europa-conference-league-final/

Former Super Eagles defender and coach, Austin Eguavoen has congratulated Premier League club, Manchester City for winning the 2021/22 Premier League title.

City rallied back from two goals down to beat Aston Villa 3-2 in a thrilling final day clash at the Etihad Stadium.

City were just one point ahead of Liverpool going into the final game of the season.

Matty Cash gave Steven Gerrard’s Aston Villa the lead in the 37th minute and former Liverpool player, Phillipe Coutinho doubled the lead in the 69th minute to put City’s title hopes in serious doubt.

However Manchester City went on a five minute rampage to make the scores 3-2 in the 81st minute.

Rodrigo Hernandez’s 78th minute goal was sandwiched between two IIkay Gundogan goals to give City the Premiership title after Liverpool defeated Wolves 3-1.
.
Eguavoen took to his Twitter handle to congratulate Pep Guardiola and Manchester City for the win.

“Congratulations Manchester City. Pep Guardiola , head and shoulders above everyone else. Champions of England,”he Tweeted.\

Manchester City won the title after amassing a total of 93 points from 38 games.

The club had a total of 29 wins ,six draws and three losses.

This is Manchester City’s fourth Premier League win in five years and their eighth win overall since 1937.

Source: https://www.completesports.com/eguavoen-congratulates-manchester-city-on-title-win/

Manchester United goalkeeper, David De Gea has told Cristiano Ronaldo, Paul Pogba, Edinson Cavani, Jesse Lingard and the rest of the team who do not wish to stay at Old Trafford to find their ways.



Manchester United lost their final game of the season to Crystal Palace and only managed to finish 6th in the Premier League table and will play in the Europa League next season.

New manager, Erik ten Hag watched from the stand at Selhurst Park and will have a first time meeting with the squad next week, before his work really gets started at the Theatre of Dreams.



De Gea has been one of the few outstanding players for the Red Devils this season.
The Spaniard advised any player that does not want to be at the club to exit in the transfer window.



“[The] ones [Manchester stars] who want to stay, stay at the club. Ones that don’t want to stay go out. You don’t have to stay here,” De Gea told Sky Sports.



“I want to forget this season and be 100% ready for the next season and be positive,” De Gea told Sky Sports after Manchester United’s 1-0 loss to Crystal Palace on the final day of the season.
Style of play


Regarded as a highly promising prospect in his youth, De Gea soon developed into one of the best goalkeepers in the world, with some in the sport even labelling him as the current best keeper in the world. De Gea grew up playing futsal as an outfield player until the age of 14, which has helped with his footwork; he has also incorporated various futsal goalkeeping techniques in his play style which shows in his ability to make athletic saves with his feet.



Personal life


In January 2012, De Gea was confirmed as farsighted, although this is not thought to have affected his performances. De Gea has stated that he is a fan of heavy metal music, with Avenged Sevenfold being one of his favourite bands. He is married to Spanish singer Edurne. On 4 March 2021, the couple had their first child, a daughter named Yanay. He also founded an eSports team under the name ‘”Rebels Gaming” in 2021.

Source: https://www.completesports.com/leave-man-united-if-you-dont-want-to-stay-de-gea-warns-ronaldo-pogba-others/[b][/b]

Maduka Okoye hopes he will get the chance to play for Nigeria at the world cup in future, while lamenting Super Eagles failure to qualify for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

The Super Eagles lost out to eternal rivals Ghana in the playoff round of the qualifiers in March.

Okoye missed both legs of the qualifiers after contracting coronavirus.

Despite the disappointment of missing out on what could have been his first world cup appearance for the three-time appearance, Okoye believes he still has a chance of playing at the mundial in future.

“Unfortunately, the World Cup dream has burst for now,” Okoye told Transfermarkt.

“But if I calculate correctly, I can still qualify for at least three world championships with the team given my age. That’s why I don’t stress about it at all.

“It’s a shame, of course, because it’s a huge opportunity that you’re missing out on. But I don’t see that as a problem, but as a reason to work even harder because it wasn’t enough now.

“I am very sure that we will do it again.”

Okoye made his international debut for Nigeria as a substitute in a friendly encounter against the Selecao of Brazil in October 2019.

The 22-year-old was part of the Super Eagles squad to the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations in Cameroon.

Okoye is expected to move to Watford this summer after extending his stay with Eredivisie club Sparta Rotterdam.

Source:-https://www.completesports.com/okoye-wants-to-play-at-the-three-world-cups-with-super-eagles/

Liverpool manager, Jurgen Klopp has revealed that it would be a brilliant end to their season if the team wins the Champions League.



The Reds lifted their second trophy of the season last Saturday after beating Chelsea on penalties in the FA Cup final.

Klopp’s men play Real Madrid in the Champions League final and on Tuesday, they can close the gap between themselves and Manchester City to one point with one game left.



Speaking ahead of Liverpool’s trip to Southampton on Tuesday, Klopp said: “If we play a season like we play and we win the Carabao and fight for the title until the end, I think it’s a good season,” Klopp told TribalFootball

“The FA Cup is a massive competition. It felt great. It takes pressure off and that’s what makes it more enjoyable.

“It would be massive if we win in a few weeks’ time in the Champions League. But we play the most experienced Champions League team on this planet.



“We aren’t massive favourites. It’s an open game and every little advantage we can get is good. They have already won the league already. Between now and then, two massive games.”

Klopp is a notable proponent of Gegenpressing, a tactic in which the team, after losing possession of the ball, immediately attempts to win back possession, rather than falling back to regroup. Klopp has stated that a well-executed counter-pressing system can be more effective than any playmaker when it comes to creating chances.



Commenting on his pressing tactics, Klopp said that “The best moment to win the ball is immediately after your team just lost it. The opponent is still looking for orientation where to pass the ball. He will have taken his eyes off the game to make his tackle or interception and he will have expended energy. Both make him vulnerable”. The tactic requires great amounts of speed, organisation and stamina, with the idea of regaining possession of the ball as far up the pitch as possible in order to counter possible counter-attacks. It also requires high levels of discipline: T

Source:https://www.completesports.com/it-would-be-massive-if-liverpool-win-champions-league-klopp/

Allsportspredictions.com, one of our expert tipster partners, to view more of our Preview, and Prediction, Go here.
Southampton vs. Liverpool – Liverpool‘s Premier League game on Tuesday at Southampton is the next step in their quest for the quadruple. They already have a domestic cup to show for it.

The hosts have had 10 days to think about their 3-0 loss to Brentford, while the Reds won the FA Cup at the weekend for the first time in 16 years.

Southampton’s and their fans’ disappointing season is coming to an end, but they can take some comfort in the fact that their team has been officially declared safe from relegation before the last couple of game weeks.

At the Brentford Community Stadium, the Saints’ troubles on the road continued. Pontus Jansson and Yoane Wissa scored in quick succession in the first half, and then Kristoffer Ajer dribbled through a crowd of people and scored in the second half.

Everton and Burnley could still pass the 15th-placed Saints, but Leeds United’s tie with Brighton & Hove Albion means that Ralph Hasenhuttl’s team will finish above the dotted line and can start getting ready for next season in the Premier League.
Before playing Liverpool, they won only one of their last 11 Premier League games, which is not a good sign. This is especially true since the Reds are coming down south with possibly new hopes of doing the impossible.

Southampton vs Liverpool – Betting Analysis

Liverpool has a good chance of winning the Premier League and the Champions League now that they have won both domestic cups. If they win, they will close the gap to Manchester City to one point, since the champions could only tie with West Ham United, but it is still out of their hands.

Last time out, Liverpool beat Aston Villa 2-1 despite a shaky start on defense. Klopp now has to deal with a lot of injuries as he tries to lead the Reds to their seventh win in a row away from home in the Premier League.
Hasenhuttl famously fell to his knees when Southampton beat Liverpool 1-0 at St. Mary’s last season. However, Liverpool won the Saints 4-0 at Anfield without a response earlier this season, and they won’t be willing to let lightning strike twice on the South Coast.

Southampton vs Liverpool: Head -to-Head

southampton-vs-liverpool-premier-league-st-marys-betting-the-saints-the-reds
Our Prediction: Away To Win

For more of our Preview and Prediction, Go here.

Source: https://www.completesports.com/southampton-vs-liverpool-preview-and-predictions/

Jake Daniels has become the first active British male footballer to come out publicly as gay since Justin Fashanu.



Jake,17 plays for Blackpool FC and he says he hopes that his decision to go public about his sexuality will encourage others to do same.

“Now is the right time to do it. I feel like I am ready to tell people my story. I want people to know the real me,” Daniels told Sky Sports News.



“I have been thinking for a long time about how I want to do it, when I want to do it. I know now is the time. I am ready to be myself, be free and be confident with it all.

“I can’t really put a date on it, but I was probably five or six years old when I knew I was gay. So it’s been a long time that I have been living with the lie.

“At that age you don’t really think that football and being gay doesn’t mix. You just think, one day, when I’m older I’ll get a girlfriend and I will change and it will be fine.



“But as you get older you realise you can’t just change. It doesn’t work like that.”



Daniels last season scored 30 goals for the under-19 team of Blackpool FC and scored against Chelsea and Newcastle in the FA Youth Cup.

“For a long time I’ve thought I would have to hide my truth because I wanted to be, and now I am, a professional footballer,” Daniels added.



“I asked myself if I should wait until I’ve retired to come out. No other player in the professional game here is out.




“However, I knew that would lead to a long time of lying and not being able to be myself or lead the life that I want to.”



“Since I’ve come out to my family, my club and my team-mates, that period of overthinking everything and the stress it created has gone. It was impacting my mental heath. Now I am just confident and happy to be myself finally,” he said.



“I first told my mum and my sister, who I live with. ‘Yeah, we already knew,’ was how they reacted.


“Then we told my whole family and at this point I was quite scared because I didn’t know how the older generation might react.



“I needn’t have worried. I’ve had so many messages saying, ‘we are proud and we are supportive.’ It’s been amazing. I couldn’t have wished for it to go better.



“The day after I told my mum and sister, we played Accrington [in an under-18s fixture] and I scored four goals, so it just shows how much of a weight off the shoulders and what a massive relief it was.”



In a statement the club said: “Blackpool Football Club has worked closely with Stonewall and the relevant footballing organisations to support Jake and is incredibly proud that he has reached a stage where he is empowered to express himself both on-and-off the pitch.



“It is vital that we all promote an environment where people feel comfortable to be themselves, and that football leads the way in removing any form of discrimination and prejudice.”



The Professional Footballers’ Association also celebrated Daniels’ bravery.



They said: “We are extremely proud of Jake and have been working with him and his club. He has the complete support of everyone at the PFA.”

Source: https://www.completesports.com/i-knew-i-was-gay-at-six-blackpool-player-daniels/

World football governing body, FIFA, has celebrated Asisat Oshoala for finishing as top scorer in the Primera Iberdrola (Spanish women’s first division).

Oshoala concluded the season with 20 goals and three assists in 19 games despite a three month injury-induced layoff.

Geyse Ferreira of Real Madrid also scored 20 goals but did it in 27 appearances and recorded one assist.

And reacting to Oshoala’s top scorer’s award, FIFA described her performance for Barcelona this term as perfect.

“20 goals and a perfect club season.

“@AsisatOshoala has always been unstoppable! �“ FIFA wrote on their Women’s World Cup Twitter handle.

Barcelona Femeni won the 2021/2022 Primera Iberdrola with a perfect record of 30 wins from 30 matches, scoring 159 goals and conceding 11 in the process.

The Catalan club are aiming to win the treble like the previous season, as they are in the final of the Women’s Champions League – to clash with Lyon at the Juventus Stadium in Turin on May 21.

Oshoala’s team will also play Real Madrid in the semi-final of the Copa La Reina.

Meanwhile, Oshoala is among 32 players invited by Super Falcons coach Randy Waldrum, for a two-week camp in Morocco ahead of this year’s CAF Women’s Cup of Nations.

Oshoala was the highest goal scorer at the 2014 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup and was named best player at the tournament.

She was also named best player and second top goalscorer with the Super Falcons team who won the 2014 African Women’s Championship.

On 8 June 2015, Oshoala scored her first 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup goal when she scored the team’s second goal in a 3–3 draw with Sweden in Winnipeg.

After the team was defeated 2–0 by Australia and 1–0 by the United States, they did not advance to the knockout stages.

Oshoala was also a member of the Super Falcons team who won the African Women’s Championship in 2016 and 2018. She scored three goals in the 2018 Edition in Ghana.

Source: https://www.completesports.com/fifa-celebrates-oshoalas-pichichi-award/

The Super Eagles of Nigeria will now face Mauritius instead of São Tomé and Principe in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, Completesports.com reports.

The confirmation of Mauritius as one of the teams placed in Group A alongside Nigeria, Guinea-Bissau and Sierra Leone was published on the Super Eagles verifies Twitter handle on Monday.

Confederation of African Football (CAF) disqualified São Tomé and Principe, from the qualifiers for fielding an ineligible player against Mauritius during their preliminary round fixture.

Following the development, the Eagles will now face Mauritius in their second game in the qualifiers.

“We will now play Mauritius in our 2nd match of the AFCON 2023 qualifiers,” it was written on the Eagles Twitter handle.

Two teams from the group will qualify for the 2023 AFCON edition to be hosted by Côte d’Ivoire.

The first time Côte d’Ivoire hosted the AFCON was in 1984 which was won by Cameroon.

The qualifiers will run between 30 May 2022 and March 2023.

Meanwhile, newly-appointed coach of Nigeria’s Super Eagles, Jose Peseiro, has been handed a one-year short term contract, as he begins his reign as the head coach of Nigeria’s Senior Men’s National team.

Contrary to speculations, the Portuguese coach was only handed a 12 months deal, which is subject to renewal based on performance-related clauses.

With the NFF facing a legal battle on payments for erstwhile coach of the team, Gernot Rohr, all pointers are the Federation are weary of allowing thunder strike in the same spot.

Peseiro will lead the Eagles in the United States when the team faces Mexico and Ecuador in international friendly games. He will be assisted by Ex-Eagles winger Finidi George, Salisu Yusuf and Usman Abdallah.

The former Venezuela and Saudi Arabia national team coach comes in as the substantive replacement for Franco-German coach, Gernot Rohr, whose contract was terminated by the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, after five and half years of handling the three-time African champions.
Source: https://www.completesports.com/2023-afcon-qualifiers-super-eagles-to-now-face-mauritius/

Super Eagles defender Olisa Ndah was in action as South African giants Orlando Pirates qualified for the CAF Confederation Cup final at the expense of Al Ahli Tripoli of Libya on Sunday, Completesports.com reports.

Pirates progressed 2-1 on aggregate despite losing the second leg 1-0 at home.

Ali Arqoub got the only goal of the game in the 89th minute but Ndah and his Orlando Pirates teammates managed to hold on to advance.

Ndah, who was not in the squad in the first leg which Pirates won 2-0, featured for 90 minutes in the reverse fixture.

Pirates will now take on RSB Berkane of Morocco in the final billed for the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria.

It is Pirates’ second appearance in the Confederation Cup final after facing Tunisia’s Etoile du Sahel, whom they lost to.

After a 1-1 draw in South Africa, Pirates fell 1-0 to the North Africans in the second leg in Tunisia.

Meanwhile, it will be a home coming for Ndah who use to play inside the Godswill Akpabio Stadium during his time with Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) side Akwa United.

The 24-year-old spent two seasons at Akwa United from 2019 to 2021 and won the Nigerian league title with them.

He has represented Nigeria U23 at the 2019 Africa U-23 Cup of Nations in Egypt.

Also, he was part of the Eagles squad that featured at the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations in Cameroon.

In 2004, the CAF Confederation Cup was founded as the merger of CAF Cup and African Cup Winners’ Cup.

Accra Hearts of Oak became the first club to win the cup in 2004. In 2013, CS Sfaxien became the first club to win three trophies after defeating TP Mazembe in the final.

Akin to the CAF Champions League since 21st century, the competition has also been dominated by North African sides, with 13 titles went to the region.

Source: https://www.completesports.com/caf-confed-cup-ndah-helps-orlando-pirates-seal-final-ticket/

Newly-appointed coach of Nigeria’s Super Eagles, Jose Peseiro, has been handed a one-year short term contract, as he begins his reign as the head coach of Nigeria’s Senior Men’s National team.

Contrary to speculations, the Portuguese coach was only handed a 12 months deal, which is subject to renewal based on performance-related clauses.

With the NFF facing a legal battle on payments for erstwhile coach of the team, Gernot Rohr, all pointers are the Federation are weary of allowing thunder strike in the same spot.

Peseiro will lead the Eagles in the United States when the team faces Mexico and Ecuador in international friendly games. He will be assisted by Ex-Eagles winger Finidi George, Salisu Yusuf and Usman Abdallah.

The former Venezuela and Saudi Arabia national team coach comes in as the substantive replacement for Franco-German coach, Gernot Rohr, whose contract was terminated by the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, after five and half years of handling the three-time African champions.

The NFF Technical Director, Austine Eguavoen, last handled the Super Eagles as Interim Technical Adviser. He led the team to the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations in Cameroun where the team failed to go beyond the Second Round. With Emmanuel Amuneke as his assistant, he led the Eagles through the 2022 World Cup African qualifiers playoffs, and failed to go past the Black Stars of Ghana.

Source: https://www.completesports.com/super-eagles-new-coach-peseiro-gets-one-year-short-term-contract/

Super Falcons and Barcelona Femeni striker, Asisat Oshoala has celebrated her Pichichi win as the Primera Iberdrola was concluded on Sunday, Completesports.com reports.

Barcelona Femeni defeated Atletico Madrid 2-1 on the final of the season with the goals scored by Irene Paredes and Aitina Bonmati. Amanda Sampedro scored the consolation goal for Atletico Madrid.

Atletico Madrid’s Merel Van Dongen was red carded while the aforementioned Bonmati also saw red late in the second half.

Oshoala finished the season with 20 goals and three assists in 19 games despite a three month injury-induced layoff.0

Geyse Ferreira of Real Madrid also scored 20 goals but did it in 27 Applearances and recorded one assist.

Oshoala shared a Tweet from FC Barcelona Femeni.

“PICHICHI @Asisat Oshoala,” FC Barcelona Femeni Tweeted.

Oshoala moved to Barcelona Femeni from Chinese club Dalian Quinjan in 2019.


Barcelona Femeni won the 2021/2022 Primera Iberdrola with a perfect record of 30 wins from 30 matches, scoring 159 goals and conceding 11 in the process.

The Catalan club are aiming to win the treble like the previous season, as they are in the final of the Women’s Champions League – to clash with Lyon at the Juventus Stadium in Turin on May 21.

Oshoala’s team will also play Real Madrid in the semi-final of the Copa La Reina.

Source: https://www.completesports.com/oshoala-celebrates-pichichi-award/

Former Nigeria international, Benedict Akwuegbu, has exclusively told Completesports.com about his intention to vie for the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, President position in the forthcoming general elections of the nation’s football ruling body.

The 47-year-old who is capped 30 times with eight ( goals told Completesports.com Monday night from his base in the United Kingdom that he possesses the vital credentials a top quality that the NFF boss should possess in order to develop the game.

Former Nigeria international, Benedict Akwuegbu, has exclusively told Completesports.com about his intention to vie for the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, President position in the forthcoming general elections of the nation’s football ruling body.

The 47-year-old who is capped 30 times with eight ( goals told Completesports.com Monday night from his base in the United Kingdom that he possesses the vital credentials a top quality that the NFF boss should possess in order to develop the game.

“Experience-wise, yes, I have it. Don’t forget that I’ve worked as Heartland FC Assistant General Manager [2012-2013],” starts the onetime bully forward nicknamed Austrian Bomber.

“I stepped down from that role when things were no longer going the real professional way they should.

“Equally of note is the fact that I was once the Manager of FC Gratkorn Austria [2015-2016 – a second division league club].

“After that, I was appointed Technical Director of Mighty Jets of Jos.

“So, in terms of experience, I believe I have it which will help me to open a new positive chapter in Nigerian football”.

Winner of Austrian Cup with Grazer AK in 2000 and 2002 and AFCON silver medalist in 2000, Akwuegbu also won the Austrian Bundesliga League title in 2003/2004 season.

Currently, Akwuegbu is a Mental Health undergraduate of Anglia Ruskin University, ARU, London.

“Aside playing the game at the top level – because playing in the World Cup is the utmost career height of every player – I have to equip myself academically for the coming years,” explains the former Mbaise United FC proprietor.

“When I was playing, I knew that one day, it might get to a point where one would have to think of life after football as a player.

“In that case, I decided to upgrade my academic status which I believe, will come handy if I’m entrusted with the leadership of the NFF”.

Elections into the leadership and Executive Board of the NFF is billed to hold in September when the tenure of the current board led by Amaju Melvin Pinnick is expected to run out.

“If I become NFF President, I must make sure that Nigeria did not only qualify for the World Cup but also win it,” Akwuegbu said of his major objectives if he emerges as Amaju Pinnick successor

“Yes, Nigeria can win the World Cup and I will resign if we fail.

“We will do everything, including appointment of coaches purely on merit.

“As NFF President, I will not collect any salary.”

Akwuegbu had an illustrious playing career which spanned through the domestic scene to Austria, France, China, Belgium and later England.

After calling time on his playing career, he has ventured into management, coaching and business as well his current push into academics.

Part of his business concerns, is the newly completed Big Ben Hotel in Abuja [inset in the photo above].

“Hopefully, we’ll open the hotel next month [June]”, Akwuegbu disclosed.

Completesports.com checks reveal that aside the Big Ben Hotel in Abuja, Akwuegbu also has hostel project in Jos and an Apartment in Austria.

Source: https://www.completesports.com/akwuegbu-eager-for-nff-presidency-aims-win-world-cup/

Allsportspredictions.com, one of our expert tipster partners, to view more of our Preview, and Prediction, Go here.
Wolves vs Man City – Wolverhampton Wanderers welcome Manchester City to The Molineux on Wednesday night. The table-toppers thrashed Newcastle United 5-1, while Bruno Lage’s team drew 2-2 with Chelsea. Chelsea has lost points this season when they should havee won. Wolves were still in it even after Romelu Lukaku scored twice in two minutes at Stamford Bridge, and the Blues’ new owners lost in London.

Wolves made a stunning comeback after Chiquinho came on. The 22-year-perfect old’s cross hit Conor Coady’s head in the seventh minute of stoppage time in the second half. The point keeps Lage’s team in contention for a European place, as they sit eighth in the rankings, five points behind West Ham United, who have played one more game.

A strong finish might see Wolves overtake Manchester United, but Lage’s team must still face City and Liverpool before the season ends, with a home game against bottom club Norwich City wedged between the two championship contenders.

Despite scoring or drawing in West London for the first time in three games, Lage’s once-solid defence has now been breached six times in a row. Their home record of winning one and losing the next may not matter much against the Citizens. The first team to face Manchester City after being eliminated from Europe should expect a thrashing, and Pep Guardiola’s side delivered against Newcastle United to extend their advantage at the top

Raheem Sterling scored twice at the Etihad, while Phil Foden, Rodri, and Aymeric Laporte also scored, City now leads by three points, although Liverpool can reclaim the top spot if they beat Aston Villa on Tuesday.

Guardiola criticized unfair favoritism towards Liverpool over the weekend. On the field, the Catalans have excelled with four straight Premier League victories, scoring 17 goals and conceding just one, and a 16-game unbeaten run in the top division, a new club record.

Wolves vs Man City- Betting Analysis

City defeated Wolves 1-0 at the Etihad Stadium in December, thanks to a Sterling penalty. It was the champions’ third consecutive win against the Molineux side, and a fourth would solidify their position atop the table. However, the Wolves are not the same defensive force who nearly shut out the champions at the Etihad,His squad is chasing the Premier League title this season. So they should be able to beat Wolves, whose inconsistency at Molineux should cost them again.

Wolves vs Man City: Head-to-Head

wolves-vs-man-city-betting-premier-league-wolverhampton-wanderers-manchester-city-the-molineux-pep-guardiola
Our Predictions: Away To Win & Over 2.5 Goals

For more of our Preview and Prediction, Go here.

Data Analysis

With a probability of 76.62 percent, our analysis of all available data, including recent performances and player metrics, says that Manchester City will win this match. A draw has a 15% chance of happening, while a Wolverhampton Wanderers win has an 8.36% chance of happening.

Wolverhampton Wanderers 0-2 Manchester City is the most likely scoreline, with a chance of 12.72 percent. 0-3 (10.6 percent), 0-1 (10.18 percent), and 1-2 are the next most likely scorelines (8.92 percent).


S[b]ource:https://www.completesports.com/wolves-vs-man-city-preview-and-predictions/[/b]

Paul Onuachu took his goal tally in the Belgian topflight to 21, after scoring for Genk in their 3-2 home win against Sporting Charleroi in the European qualification playoffs for next season, Completesports.com reports.

Onuachu has now scored in back-to-back games and has also netted six goals in his last six games.

Onuachu scored in the 55th minute to draw Genk level after Sporting Charleroi took the lead on 34 minutes through Marco Ilaimaharitra.

In the 59th minute Genk went 2-1 up following an own goal by Sporting Charleroi’s player Ken Nkuba.

Carlos Cuesta also got on the score sheet in the 65th minute to put Genk 3-1 ahead before Daan Heymans pulled a goal back for Sporting Charleroi on 72 minutes.

And after four rounds of games played among the four teams in the playoffs, Gent still top on 40 points with Genk in second place on 36 points.

KV Mechelen on 29 points are third while Sporting Charleroi are in fourth place on 28 points with two games left to play for each teams.

Genk next fixture in the playoffs is an home game against Gent on May 15.

In their first meeting in the playoffs, Genk triumped 1-0 thanks to a 91st minute strike.

They will round off with a trip to Mechelen on May 21 and will hope to make it a double, after recording a 4-2 win in their first meeting.

The Belgian European Qualification Playoffs

Until 2016, the teams ranked 7 to 14 after the regular season in the Belgian topflight enter the playoffs 2, with teams ranked 7th, 9th, 12th, and 14th entering group A and teams ranked 8th, 10th, 11th, and 13th entering group B.

In each group, each team plays each of its three opponents twice. The winner of each group played the final game in two legs to determine the winner of the playoffs 2.

The winner of the playoffs 2 then plays a home and away game against either the fourth-place or fifth-place team from the playoffs 1 for the final Europa League ticket, with the opponent depending on whether the Belgian Cup winner ended in the top four of the playoff 1 or not.

Source: https://www.completesports.com/onuachu-bags-21st-league-goal-of-the-season-in-genk-home-win/[b][/b]

Nigeria winger Victor Moses has revealed he can play in five different positions, reports Completesports.com.

Moses was named Man of the Match in Spartak Moscow’s 3-1 win against Ural Yekaterinburg in their Russian Premer League clash last Saturday.

The 31-year-old, who has operated as a left midfielder under Paolo Vanoli scored and grabbed an assist in the encounter.

Moses has proven his versatility in the past as he was deployed as a winger and right wing-back at English giants Chelsea FC and wing-back at Italian champions Inter Milan.

Right from the very first time I came to Spartak I’m down to play in any position. I can play left-back, right-back, 10, right wing, left wing,” Moses told the club’s official Youtube channel

“The most important thing is to help the team and I am very pleased to do that today. It’s about the team effort, we all came here today to get the three points so we worked very hard collectively and individually as well.

“We played for the three points, now we can move from here now. “I’m happy with the manager getting the three points today, he’s someone that I know very well.

“Inter Milan we worked together, he’s a manager that can rotate to any formation and he’s very good at that.”

Moses has netted three times and provided four assists across all competitions for Spartak Moscow this season.

The former Wigan Star joined Spartak Moscow on permanent deal in July 2021 after impressing while on loan at the club. The move ended his nine year association with Chelsea.

Moses extended his contract with Spartak to 2024 last February.

The player retired from international duty at the end of 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.

Source: https://www.completesports.com/mr-versatile-moses-reveals-he-can-play-in-five-positions/