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Plateau United head coach, Kennedy Boboye, says his side now head into next Wednesday’s CAF Champions League first round, first leg fixture against Etoile du Sahel of Tunisia in boisterous mood after Wednesday’s 1-0 win home against Enugu Rangers, [url]Completesportsnigeria.com[/url] reports.

Chizoba Amaefule scored a 77th minute header to hand the champions maximum points in the Nigeria Professional Football League rescheduled matchday-nine encounter at the New Jos Stadium.

The Jos club moved to top position in the table with the win despite still having a game in hand.

They now face a more daunting task against Tunisian giants, Etoile du Sahel, in Sousse for a place in the group stages of the CAF Champions League (CAFCL).

Boboye praises Rangers for their effort in the game and states that moving to the top position in the NPFL table will enhance his side’s confidence ahead of Etoile’s clash.

“It was a tough game against a highly tactical team that came here to play for a draw, but we are happy that we got our three points at the end of the day,”Boboye told reporters after the game.

” The win is very important to us even as we go into the next round of our continental matches knowing that we are at the top of the league.”

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/boboye-plateaus-win-rangers-morale-booster-cafcl-clash-vs-etoile-du-sahel/

Nigeria defender Leon Balogun hopes to sort oit his future with German club FSV Mainz before start of the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, reports [url]Completesportsnigeria.com[/url].

Balogun joined Mainz from another Bundesliga outfit Darmstadt 98 on a three-year deal in the summer of 2015 and has established himself as a key member of the side.

He has established himself on the international scene with Nigeria and will be one of the key men for the Super Eagles in Russia.

A good performance at the Mundial could open up another opportunity for the big centre-back to move to another club but he is not prepared to wait until the end of the global soccer fiesta to sort out his future.

“I want to have clarity in any case first. I’m going to be 30 years old in the summer, so it would be ideal to clarify my future before the tournament,” Balogun stated in an interview with German online news outlet t-online.de

“I am already in talks with those responsible here in Mainz and can definitely imagine staying.”

Balogun has previously featured for German clubs Hannover 98, Werder Bremen and Fortuna Dusserdolf.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/balogun-keen-new-mainz-contract-world-cup/

Super Eagles goalkeeper, Ikechukwu Ezenwa, is back to training after the injury he sustained during the 2018 CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) in Morocco, [url]Completesportsnigeria.com[/url] reports.‎

Ezenwa who captained Nigeria to the tournament got injured in the semi-final against Sudan and could not be part of the final match against host nation Morocco which the home-based Super Eagles lost 4-0.

The FC Ifeanyi Ubah first choice goalkeeper posted a message on his facebook wall in the early hours of Thursday, thanking God for healing him, and also thankful to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) for the support given to him during his trying time.

“Special thanks to God almighty for healing me, Ezenwa is back to the field of play with joy,” the Super Eagles goalkeeper stated.

“And also thanks to my beloved fans all over the world for their prayers and concern they showed to me during the recovery process. God bless you all and I love you all.

“️️ also thanks to the NFF for their care and support throughout my stay in Abuja. God bless them.”‎

Ezenwa’s return will serve as a big boost to the Super Eagles preparation for the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.

Nigeria will play both Poland and Serbia in international friendly games this month as part of the preparations towards the World Cup in Russia.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/ezenwa-returns-training-injury-setback-thankful-god/

Real Madrid rested key players like Cristiano Ronaldo, Luka Modric and Toni Kroos and dearly paid for it as Gerard Moreno’s stoppage-time goal gave Espanyol a shock 1-0 LaLiga win against the champions at the RCDE Stadium on Tuesday night.

Espanyol condemned Real Madrid to their fifth league defeat of the season and ended their four-game winning run in the Spanish top flight.

On the other hand, Espanyol ended an 11-game losing streak against Real Madrid in all competitions.

Despite the weakened side, Madrid were the dominant side but the hosts also created chances on the break.

The breakthrough finally arrived for Espanyol when Moreno struck home in the third minute of added time.

The defeat left Real Madrid in third place in the table with 51 points from 26 games, 14 points adrift of leaders Barcelona who have a game in hand.

Espanyol are up to 13th with 31 points.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/ronaldo-modric-rested-espanyol-shock-real-madrid/

Neymar Senior, the father of Brazil superstar, Neymar da Silva Santos Junior, has disclosed that his son need an operation to repair his broken foot, despite Paris Saint-Germain boss, Unai Emery insisting on Tuesday that his star man would not go under the knife.

The 26-year-old suffered a broken metatarsal and sprained ankle during Sunday’s 3-0 Ligue 1 win over their arch-rivals Marseille and was in tears as he was carried off at the Parc de Princes.

Emery alleged Neymar could have a ‘small chance’ of playing against Real Madrid in their Champions League last 16 second leg next Tuesday, but the Brazilian’s father has labelled that assertion ‘absurd’.

‘Yes, of course, he is is out against Real Madrid,’ Neymar Snr told ESPN Brazil .

‘It is absurd if anybody thinks otherwise. At the end of April, Neymar will be able to play football.

‘We are waiting for the (Brazilian national team’s) doctor to arrive, he will have a meeting with the club.

‘PSG already know that they will not be able to count on Neymar for at least six weeks because of this treatment.’

The latest development is in complete contrast to what PSG manager Emery had to say on Tuesday after he quashed rumours that his star man required surgery.

‘The information that Neymar will be operated is false,’ Emery told a news conference ahead of Wednesday’s French Cup quarter-final against Marseille.

‘I spoke with the doctor on Tuesday morning and he explained to me what the exams revealed. I also talked about it with (PSG sports director) Antero Henrique, the president and the player.

‘Neymar is the first who wants to play every game, for Real Madrid, he is very focused. I think there is a small chance for him to be ready for the match.’

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/neymar-senior-my-son-needs-surgery-to-fix-broken-foot/

President of the Nigeria Football Federation Amaju Pinnick on Tuesday inaugurated the body’s new Audit Committee and the Technical Study Group at the NFF Secretariat, Abuja, the NFF announced in a press release.

Members of the TSG include ex-Super Eagles star Taribo West, Austin Okocha and Victor Agali.

“The Audit Committee will complement the efforts of our external auditors, PriceWaterHouse Coopers, and much is expected of them,” Pinnick said.

Pinnick also declared that the Technical Study Group would function as a committee, collating, analysing and putting at the disposal of the Federation, data and new thinking that can enhance the rapid development of the Nigeria game.

“The Chairman, Alhaji Abba Yola, needs no introduction. He is someone who has seen it all in sports administration and we thank him immensely for accepting to serve Nigerian Football in this capacity. In due course, members of the Technical Study Group will be attached to the various National Teams to impact on those teams.”

On his part, Yola said: “I commend the NFF for coming up with a panel like the Technical Study Group. We will work as a group and with the Technical Committee, and in the interest of all the National Teams, including the U-13.”

NFF General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, urged the committees to route their reports through the proper channels without making public their recommendations, while also thanking them for accepting to serve the nation.

Audit Committee: Sunday Dele-Ajayi (Chairman); Mohammed Alkali (Vice Chairman); Shariff Abdullahi (Member); Abubakar Ladan (Member); Yahuza Adamu (Member); Ayodeji Alabi (Member); Ezra Godit (Member); Ogheneochuko Ambakederemo (Member); Imama Tukur (Member); Isa Matori (Member); Suleiman Tegina (Secretary)

Technical Study Group: Abba Yola (Chairman); Taribo West (Vice Chairman); Bernard Ogbe (Member); Augustine ‘Jay Jay’ Okocha (Member); Tijjani Babangida (Member); Victor Agali (Member); Tunde Adelakun (Member); Adegoke Adelabu (Member); James Peters (Member); Clement Nwankpa (Member); Ibikunle Solaja (Member); Yusuf Dauda (Member); Ubale Yusuf (Member); Sule Gwagwarja (Member); Godwin Enakhena (Member); Mike Idoko (Member); Chukwumah Ubah (Member); Bitrus Bewarang (Secretary)

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/nff-inaugurate-okocha-taribo-agali-technical-study-group/

Beginner golf players can often feel like they’re being plunged into a world where they have a lot to learn! If you’re a beginner player then we’re here to help you with some helpful steps to start you off…

Learning the Rules

The rules of golf really aren’t that tricky to get started with, but there are a few subtleties that you want to be aware of too. There’s also an element of etiquette to get to grips with, if you miss out on this then you might end up offending someone or even getting thrown off the green!

Take the time to understand the rules and regulations around the game is essential, there’s a bit more to learn than just taking your turn at the right time! Treat your caddies with respect and other players too, then you’ll get a good name for yourself around the courses

Some courses will also have local rules that will be displayed on their scorecard. Take a quick check and you’ll make sure you’re playing the way they want you to. If you travel to quite a few golf courses then this is a must!

Keep up the Pace

If you’re playing with others, then it’s only polite to keep up the pace. This is not only an etiquette thing, it’s also better for your own game. The more games you can fit in on a regular basis, the better you’ll get and you can’t always spend a long time at each hole.

You don’t need to rush though! You can still take your time and line up your shots the way you want, if you fall behind then you can allow the previous party to go ahead of you.

Pick your Equipment Wisely

Just because equipment is expensive, this doesn’t mean it’s good quality. If you’re new to buying golf equipment then use a trusted online dealer like The Golf Warehouse who will give you all the information you need to make a decision. New players might feel like they’ve got a lot of equipment and clothes to buy, but if you use deals and online stores like TGW you can make it a lot easier for yourself.

Staying up to Date

There are changes within the golf world that you’ll want to stay abreast of. The rules do change slightly over time, with play times and certain official rules changed. This doesn’t change the game in its entirety, but you may find that a play you were using prior becomes illegal after the change.

While courses don’t tend to caution their players, if you wanted to take part in a competitive game or tournament than you would need to know about this. Plus you can even educate your fellow golfers if you notice them doing something that has since been outlawed. Most golfers will be happy to hear from someone in the loop!

Golf is a really rewarding sport, so it’s great to get involved. If you love the outdoors and sports, then why not find a course near you?

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/essential-tips-beginner-golfers-need-know/

Nigerian striker Peter Olayinka has been nominated for Belgian Jupiler (top division) club Zulte-Waregem’s February Player of the Month award.
Zulte-Waregem announced Olayinka’s nomination on their official website on Tuesday.

Olayinka, 22, was shortlisted alongside three other players Hamdi Harbaoui (Tunisia), Sammy Bossut (Belgium) and Johan Bjordal (Norway).

Zulte-Waregem fans are expected to cast their votes for the February Player to the Month from the four shortlisted players.

The Nigerian played all four league games of Zulte-Waregem in February, scoring one goal.

He was the first player to win Zulte-Waregem’s Player of the Month award this season when he won the award in August, 2017.

He has scored seven goals in 22 league appearances for Zulte-Waregem this season.

Read more:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/nigerian-striker-olayinka-zulte-waregems-february-best-player-shortlist/

D’Tigers captain, Ike Diogu, is looking forward to Nigeria hosting the Second Round of the 2019 FIBA World Cup qualifiers this summer, [url]Completesportsnigeria.com[/url] reports.‎

Nigeria’s D’Tigers have never played a competitive game in front of their home fans in over two decades.

Diogu led the Nigerian team to resounding victories over Uganda 102-86, Rwanda 108-53 and Mali 82-59.

He told FIBA.com that playing in front of the passionate Nigerian fans will be a great motivation for the team and an opportunity to be around their families.

“I can’t imagine what the atmosphere would be like playing before our home fans. Diogu told FIBA.com.

“It would be exciting for me and others as well.Most of the time we’ve played for Nigeria, it’s been outside of the country, but the idea that the third window of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2019 African Qualifiers could be at home thrills me and I would look forward to it,” Diogu reiterated.

“It’s always great when you know you’re going to be among family members. Their presence is reassuring and playing in Nigeria would give the fans an opportunity to see their players at close range.”

Meanwhile, the Nigerian Basketball Federation have stated that they are prepared to host the Second Round of the qualifiers in June/July.

Source:[url]https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/diogu-eager-dtigers-fiba-world-cup-qualifiers%e2%80%8e-nigeria/[/url]

Superstar sprinter Usain Bolt has announced that he will make his football debut at Old Trafford in June.

The Manchester United fan and world record holder in 100m and 200m will appear in a charity match along with other celebrities and former footballers.

Bolt, 31, will captain a team of international celebrities for the Soccer Aid match on 10 June.

“It’s my dream to make it as a professional footballer. To play against some of football’s biggest legends is going to be remarkable,” the Jamaican multiple Olympic and world champion, who is regarded as the best sprinter in history, told the BBC.

Singer Robbie Williams will captain rivals England for the UNICEF charity match.

Bolt, who retired from track and field last year, has often said he would love to play football professionally.

He has trained with South African Premier League leaders Mamelodi Sundowns and even cheekily tweeted on Sunday that he was going to announce the new club he would be playing for.

“I’ve signed for a football team! Find out which one this Tuesday at 8am GMT �,” Bolt had tweeted.

Sundowns, who won the CAF Champions League in 2016, mischievously made a follow-up tweet, sparking speculation that Bolt would be joining them.

“Football will never be the same. Find out tomorrow 8am GMT! �� #Sundowns,” the club tweeted on Monday along with a photo of Bolt in their training gear.

“Robbie and his England team better watch out as I won’t be going easy on them,” said Usain, adding that he’s got a “special celebration” planned should his team win.

Bolt once even made a surprise call to MUTV, United’s TV channel.

Soccer Aid has raised £24 million to help children since its launch in 2006, according to the BBC.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/usain-bolt-make-old-trafford-debut-june/

Brazil and Paris St-Germain forward, Neymar, is set to miss the Champions League last-16 second-leg tie against Real Madrid next week after being diagnosed with a fractured metatarsal and a sprained ankle.

Neymar, 26, was injured and had to be stretchered off during PSG’s Sunday’s Ligue 1 win over Marseille.

According the BBC, PSG said Neymar suffered “a sprain of the right ankle and fissure of the fifth metatarsal”.

They however did not indicate how long he would be out.

The former Barcelona star joined PSG for a world record £200m fee from Barcelona last August and has scored 29 goals in 30 games.

PSG are 14 points clear of second-placed Monaco in the league and will host Champions League holders Real Madrid on March 6, trailing 3-1 from the first leg.

during PSG’s Sunday’s Ligue 1 win over Marseille.

According the BBC, PSG said Neymar suffered “a sprain of the right ankle and fissure of the fifth metatarsal”.

They however did not indicate how long he would be out.

The former Barcelona star joined PSG for a world record £200m fee from Barcelona last August and has scored 29 goals in 30 games.

PSG are 14 points clear of second-placed Monaco in the league and will host Champions League holders Real Madrid on March 6, trailing 3-1 from the first leg.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/ucl-psg-set-miss-neymar-madrid-clash-ankle-injury/

The much awaited presidential reception for members of the home-based Super Eagles earlier scheduled to hold this Wednesday has now been put off until further notice, [url]Completesportsnigeria.com[/url] reports.

The Salisu Yusuf’s team came second at the 2018 African Nations Championship in Morocco earlier in the month after losing 4-0 to hosts Morocco in the final.

It was the Nigeria’s best ever placing in the history of the CHAN, having won bronze at the 2014 edition in South Africa.

The planned reception for the players and their officials has been postponed twice.

“We have been informed that the reception by the President (Muhammadu Buhari) will not hold again tomorrow,” Dayo Ojo a key member of the team informed [url]Completesportsnigeria. com[/url].

“They said the President has a busy schedule at the moment and there is no way the reception can hold now.

“We don’t know the new date yet, as they only told us it has been put off till further notice. We can only hope it will not be too long.”

Also the planned reception by the Lagos State government for the team has also been shelved and will only be staged after the presidential reception.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/presidential-reception-home-eagles-put-off/

Nigeria goalkeeper Francis Uzoho conceded twice while in action for Real Deportivo Fabril who lost 2-1 to Real Valladolid II in Sunday’s Segunda Division B league game, [url]Completesportsnigeria.com[/url] reports.

Goals from Mario Robles and Luis Javier Suárez denied the Nigerian international his 11th clean sheet of the season in the Spanish third tier.

The 19-year-old who will be named in Nigeria’s squad for next month’s friendlies against Poland and Serbia has now conceded nine goals this season in 15 league games for Real Deportivo Fabril.

Despite losing their 13th game this season, Real Deportivo Fabril are still third in the table with 47 points from 27 games.

Real Deportivo Fabril will face 14th-placed Coruxo F.C in their next game.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/uzoho-denied-11th-clean-sheet-valladolid-beat-real-deportivo-fabril/

‎Free agent, Chinedu Obasi, is expected to feature for Bolton Wanderers’ U-23s against Crew Alexandra tonight (Monday) as he hopes to secure a deal with the Championship club.

According to The Bolton News, Obasi, 31, who scored in his first trial game against Burnley last week which ended 1-0, is on the lookout for a new club after leaving Swedish side, AIK.

If he eventually gets signed up by Bolton, Obasi will become teammates with former Newcastle forward, Sammy Ameobi.

Bolton’s U-23s are looking to consolidate their position at the top of the Professional Development League North table.

While in Germany, he played for Schalke and Hoffenheim before joining Chinese club, ShenzhenSh

Obasi whose career has been affected by injury, was a member of the Flying Eagles squad that won silver at the 2005 FIFA U-20 World Cup in the Netherlands.

He was also part of the U-23 Eagles that won silver at the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games.

He also made the Super Eagles squad to both the 2010 Africa Cup of Nations in Angola and the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa.

Source:[url]https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/obasi-undergo-second-trial-bolton-wanderers-%e2%80%8e/[/url]

Nigerian striker Taiwo Awoniyi, who is on loan from Liverpool, was on target for Mouscron who lost 5-3 away to Anderlecht in the Belgian Jupiler on Sunday.

Awoniyi scored in the 70th minute to make it 4-1 for Mouscron.

The goal was Awoniyi’s seventh in 26 league appearances for Mouscron so far this season.

Mouscron are 13th on 30 points in the 16-club league table.

In the Spanish LaLiga, Brown Ideye featured for struggling Malaga whose poor run continued as they lost 2-1 away to Athletic Bilbao.

While Ideye played for 90 minutes, Isaac Success was an unused substitute.

It was Malala’s fourth straight league defeat which leaves them bottom on 13 points, seven points away from safety in the league table.

And in the Danish first division, Nigerian midfielder Frank Onyeka was sent off for Midtjylland who still went on to beat Hobro 2-1.

The 20-year-old midfielder was sent off after receiving his second yellow card in the 62nd minute.

Onyeka had scored in his last two league games for Midtjylland.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/awoniyi-nets-7th-league-goal-mouscron-defeat-ideye-success-lose-malaga/

Super Eagles head coach Gernot Rohr says next month’s friendly fixtures against Poland and Serbia present a big opportunity for players to stake claims for spots in his final squad ahead of the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, [url]Completesportsnigeria.com[/url] reports.

The three-time time African champions will face Poland in Warsaw on March 23rd and take on Serbia four days later in London.

Three other build-up games against Congo, England and Czech Republic are also lined up for May 28, June 2nd and June 6th respectively.

Rohr stated that he has pencilled down a list of 28 players for two friendlies and hopes the players push hard to make the final list for the mundial.

“In the next couple of weeks we will release a list of 28 players for the friendly games against Poland and Serbia. We still have one or two players that we want to check on before coming out with the list,” the German coach told CSN at the Agege Stadium, Lagos on Wednesday.

“Moses Simon has been injured a couple of weeks now and we expect that he will be back in action for his club (Gent of Belgium) this weekend.

“There is also Ezenwa who is injured at the moment but is working hard to be fit.

“The games against Poland and Serbia is a big chance for the new players to show they have what it takes to play for us. As you know the next game will be in May so now is time for everyone who want to go to Russia to prove their quality.

“The two games are also important for us because the last time we played together was in November against Argentina. So, it will be an opportunity to work together again before the World Cup.

“In May, we will release another 30-man list for the other friendly games from which we will draw the final list for the World Cup.”

The Super Eagles will open their campaign at the 2018 FIFA World Cup on June 16 against Croatia at the Kaliningrad Stadium.

They will also face Iceland on June 22 at the Volgograd Arena. Their final group game is against Argentina on June 26 at the Krestovsky Stadium, St Petersburg.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/rohr-update-world-cup-list-poland-serbia-friendlies-monitors-ezenwa-simon/

[url]Completesportsnigeria.com[/url]’s JAMES AGBEREBI profiles Argentina hard man Nicolas Otamendi as we continue to run the rule over the Super Eagles’ Russia 2018 World Cup group opponents and their key players…

NICOLAS OTAMENDI

At five feet 10 inches, Nicolas Otamendi is not the tallest of defenders but what he lacks in height, he more than makes up in his aggressive style of play.

Since joining Manchester City from Spanish LaLiga club Valencia in 2015, Otamendi, 30, has remained a regular feature for the current Premier League leaders.

Otamendi has made 83 appearances, scoring six goals so far for the Premier League leaders.

This season, he has been a part of the City side that has stream rolled all before them and are on the verge of being crowned league champions.

He has played 26 of City’s 27 league games this current campaign, scoring four goals.

On the international stage, Otamendi made his debut for Argentina and was in Diego Maradona’s squad for the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa but missed the 2014 edition in Brazil.

He made the Argentina squad for the 2015 and 2016 Copa America where they lost both finals to Chile.

otamendi-completesportsnigeria.com

BEST POSITION: Otamendi plays mainly in the central of defence but can also slot into the right-back position.

STRENGTHS: Otamendi is very solid in aerial duels, ball interception and has a keen eye for goals just like his strike against Manchester United showed, which secured a 2-1 win for City.

WEAKNESSES: Like earlier mentioned, Otamendi is a hard tackler but can get into trouble as he can be rash when going into tackles.

STYLE: Though hard as nails, Otamendi is also adept when it comes to playing short passes as seen with Manchester City under Pep Guardiola.

He has the ability to initiate attack from defence by simply driving the ball forward.

He is also known for his tackling ability which is the hallmark of his play.

NATIONAL TEAM STATS: Since his debut in 2009, Otamendi has made 53 appearances for Argentina and has scored three goals for the national team.

DID YOU KNOW:

-Argentina were the first country to lose in the final of the FIFA World Cup. They lost 4-2 to Uruguay in the maiden edition in 1930.

-Pedro Monzon of Argentina is the first player ever to be sent off in a World Cup final. He was shown a straight red card against then West Germany in the 1990 final in Italy which Argentina lost 1-0.

-Argentina were the first team to lose a FIFA World Cup final match without scoring. They lost 1-0 to West Germany in 1990 final while previous finals dating back to the maiden edition in 1930 saw the losers scoring at least one goal.

-Argentina hold the record as the only country who had two players sent off in a FIFA World Cup final. Pedro Monzon and Gustavo Dezotti were both sent off in the 1-0 loss to West Germany in the 1990 World Cup final.

-Argentina’s only loss to an African team at the FIFA World Cup was against Cameroon at the 1990 edition in Italy. The Diego Maradona-led side were stunned 1-0 by a Francois Oman-Biyik header.

OPINION:

Do you feel the Super Eagles possess the strike force that can cause an Argentine defence led by Otamendi problems at the 2018 FIFA World Cup?

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/spotlight-nigerias-world-cup-foes-argentinas-tough-guy-otamendi/

Ugandan point guard Joshua Johnson insists the East Africans have what it takes to qualify for the 2019 FIBA World Cup.

The Scoprions of Uganda are drawn in Group D alongside hosts, Mail, Rwanda and Nigeria for the qualifying tournament which takes place from February 23 to February 25.

They will begin their campaign against 2015 African champions Nigeria on February 23 before taking on hosts Mali and finally arch-rivals Rwanda.

“We (Uganda) have a chance to sneak in a couple of wins against Nigeria, Mali and Rwanda,” the 25-year-old Johnson told FIBA.com.

“These are world class teams (Nigeria, Mali and Rwanda) that have been doing this for a long time but one thing I can say is that, we have to respect our opponents but we should not fear them.

“As a team I think that we have to go to Mali knowing that we deserve to be here and that we did not come here by wild card or as a replacement but we got here because we deserve to.

Joshua has been included in the final 12-man Ugandan roster that will make their debut at the World Cup Qualifiers stage this weekend in the Malian capital of Bamako.

Meanwhile, the D’Tigers are yet to name their squad for the 2019 FIBA AfroBasket World Cup qualifiers despite arriving in Bamako, Mali in batches.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/fiba-world-cup-qualifiers-uganda-star-eyes-upset-dtigers/

Chelsea manager, Antonio Conte, says the Blues will try to do the unimaginable by knocking Barcelona out of the Champions League after the Catalan giants forced them to a 1-1 draw in the first leg Round of 16 clash at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday.

Willian put the Blues ahead but, Lionel Messi equalised 15 minutes from full-time after Andreas Christensen’s erro, and Conte was quick to praise the young Danish defender as one of his best players on the night despite the setback.

“We were close to playing the perfect performance,” Conte said during his post match interview.

“We made one mistake, it is a pity and we are disappointed with the final result.”

It was an incredible performance,” said the Italian.

“We are talking about a very young player. It is great that he is able to play this game with maturity and personality. He was one of the best players tonight.

“It is very difficult to mention one player but I think Christensen played a top game and I was very pleased with his performance.

“We made one mistake, but we know against these opponents and players like Messi, Iniesta and (Luis) Suarez, if you make a mistake you pay.”

Conte also revealed that the second leg in Spain billed for the 14th of March won’t be easy despite trailing by away goals.

“It won’t be easy. We must be realistic because we are talking about Barcelona and they showed they are a really strong and fantastic team.

“But we also showed we are ready to work really hard in defence and have the right feeling when we get the ball to create the chances to score.

“We have to respect the opponent and when you play against Barcelona, you know very well that if you go box-to-box that is crazy. The game could not only be 1-0 but 2-0, or 4-0, 5-0, 6-0.

“We can try to do something incredible in the Nou Camp and we must play an intelligent game – we are not stupid.”

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/ucl-conte-hopes-chelsea-beat-barca-incredible-showing-camp-nou/

Last Updated: 13:40
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FT; Chelsea 1-1 Barcelona

The battle will shift to the Camp Nou for the decisive second leg on March 14.

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90+1 Iniesta goes off, the Barcelona captain having been massive for his side again with, most tellingly, the vital assits for Messi's goal.

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89' Busquets is booked for a cynical foul on Hazard. The clock winds down gradually.

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87' Chelsea are determined to get more than a draw from this game and they go in search of the winning goal but Morata is booked for dissent.

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85' Chelsea 1-1 Barcelona

Five minutes of regulation time left. No gainsaying that this tie won't be decided until the second leg at the Camp Nou

13:34
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83' -

Alvaro Morata comes on for Pedro to add a little in attack while a tiring Cesc Fabregas is replaced by Danny Drinkwater to shore up midfield.

13:22
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76' Suarez is yellow carded but this last 15 minutes will be very important for both side.

13:20
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GOAL - Chelsea 1-1 Barcelona

The first Chelsea mistake in defence and it is punished by who else but Lionel Messi.

13:13
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65' Barcelona make an immediate sub as Valverde throws on Aleix Vidal in place of Paulinho.

13:11
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62' GOAL - Chelsea 1-0 Barcelona

Willian rattled the upright twice but this time he finds the bottom corner with the sharpshooter.

Advantage Chelsea.

13:11
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GOAL!!!! Chelsea 1-0 Barcelona

13:05
completesportsnigeria
55' - Barcelona relentlessly probe in search of a weak spot and they almost find one as Luisw Suarez gets to a ball and nearly gets the better of Courtois but the big goalkeeper gets down to divert it behind the post.

12:58
completesportsnigeria
50' Barcelona are back on the ball and in control, trying to take the momentum back from Chelsea side who had built up confidence gradually.

12:54
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48' Sergi Roberto squanders a great position out on the right wing with a horribly over-hit cross for Barcelona early in the second half.

12:49
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46' Second half underway.

12:35
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HT: Chelsea 0-0 Barcelona

12:32
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45' Its almost halftime and this game is destined to enter the interval at 0-0. Barcelona had the better possession but the best chance so far had come to Chelsea.

12:29
completesportsnigeria
40' Chelsea 0-0 Barcelona

The quality of the game has ramped up tremendously. Everyone on the pitch playing with amazing awareness as Victor Moses has to be alive to knock the ball behind with Jordi Alba threatens to get beyond him and to the byeline.

12:24
completesportsnigeria
35' Chelsea 0-0 Barcelona.

Less than 10 minutes to the end of the first half and it's still goalless at Stamford Bridge.


12:20
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32' Barcelona cop first yellow for Rakitic's foul on Willian, the Brazilian being one of Chelsea's brightest spot so far this evening.


12:19
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28' Chelsea with a dazzling one-touch passing as Willian flicks one round the corner and Eden Hazard's reverse ball is only just cut out.

Pedro was through if a defender hadn't got a touch...

12:17
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25' Chelsea 0-0 Barcelona

It has been one long passing game with chance at a premium but Barcelona appear the more threatening.

12:13
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23' Barcelona are suffocating the supply lines to the Chelsea attack, having a massive possession over 75%.

12:09
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18' - Lionel Messi serves up a delicious cross, chipping over Cesar Azpilicueta for Paulinho but the Brazilian cannot direct his header on target.

12:07
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14' It is Hazard's turn to shine as he skins Paulinho and gets to the byline but his cross is blocked

Still 0-0.

12:04
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12' - Lionel Messi breezes through the centre of the park with N'Golo Kante chasing after him.

Paulinho's cross cannot find anyone in the middle after the Argentine's lay-off.

11:57
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10' Chelsea 0-0 Barcelona.

11:55
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3' - Barcelona trying to lay down an early marker in the game with Lionel Messi latching on to a loose bit of Chelsea build-up play and stutters towards Cesar Azpilicueta on the edge of the box but the Chelsea captain slides in with a timely tackle.

11:50
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1' - Game gets underway from Stamford Bridge.

11:45
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Chelsea name Giroud & Morata on bench but Barcelona are unchanged with Ousmane Dembele on bench.

Chelsea unbeaten in last seven Champions League games with Barcelona.

11:45
completesportsnigeria
The line-up for both sides are out already.



Chelsea

13 Courtois

15 Moses

28 Azpilicueta

27 Christensen

2 Rüdiger

3 Alonso

22 Willian

7 Kanté

4 Fàbregas

11 Pedro

10 E Hazard

Substitutes

1 Caballero

6 Drinkwater

9 Morata

18 Giroud

21 Zappacosta

24 Cahill

70 Hudson-Odoi





Barcelona

1 Ter Stegen

20 Sergi

3 Piqué

23 Umtiti

18 Alba

5 Busquets

4 Rakitic

8 Iniesta

15 Paulinho

9 L Suárez

10 Messi



Substitutes

6 D Suárez

11 Dembélé

13 Cillessen

19 Digne

21 André Gomes

22 Vidal

25 Vermaelen

11:43
completesportsnigeria
Chelsea and Barcelona face each other for the 13th time in the Champions League and both sides are eager to have a headstart ahead of the second leg in Spain next month.

11:42
completesportsnigeria
Good evening and welcome to www.completesportsnigeria.com's liveblogging of the Champions League Round of 16 clash between Chelsea and Barcelona from Stamford Bridge in London.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/live-chelsea-vs-barcelona-uefa-champions-league/

Nigeria’s bobsled team of Seun Adigun and Akuoma Omeoga finished 20th in official Heats 1 and 2 on Tuesday at the 2018 Winter Olympics Games in Pyeongchang, South Korea, [url]Completesportsnigeria.com[/url] reports.

The pair (Adigun and Omeoga), making their official debut at the Winter Olympics, improved on their timing from the official training heats despite finishing bottom in the standings in heat 1 and 2 respectively.

The pair finished with a time of 52.21second in Heat 1 and 52.55 in Heat 2 as against the time of 52.96 and 53.60 seconds recorded in Sunday’s training Heats 3 and 4.

Elana Taylor and Lauren Gibbs came first with a time of 50.52 in Heat 1 while the pair of Mariana Jamaka and Lisa Buckwitz from Germany came second with a time of 50.54.

Jamie Poser and Aja Evans from USA came third with a 50.59 seconds.

In Heat 2, Mariana Jamaka and Lisa Buckwitz from Germany topped with a time of 50.72.Elana Taylor and Lauren Gibbs came second with a time of 50.81

Kallie Humphries and Phylicia George from Canada came third with a time of 50.88.

The Nigerian duo will take part in Heats 3 and 4 on Wednesday.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/winter-olympics-nigeria-bobsled-duo-improve-timing-official-heats/

Nigeria striker Victor Osimhen’s Bundesliga club Wolfsburg have appointed 52-year-old Bruno Labbadia as their new coach.

Wolfsburg confirmed the appointment of Labbadia on their verified Twitter handle on Tuesday.

Labbadia who is German-born but has Italian heritage, replaces Swiss coach Martin Schmidt who resigned on Monday.

“Bruno Labbadia is the new head-coach of the Wolves. The 52-year-old has signed on until summer 2019 and will host his first training session today (Tuesday),” Wolfsburg wrote on Twitter.

Labbadia’s first game will be an away trip against Mainz 05 in a league clash on Friday.

During his playing career, Labbadia featured for Bayern Munich, FC Cologne, Werder Bremen and Hamburger.

And as a coach, he has handled Bayer Leverkusen, Hamburger, Stuttgart and Darmstadt.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/osimhen-gets-ex-bayern-star-labbadia-new-coach-wolfsburg/

Akwa United head coach Abdu Maikaba insists his side will overturn their first leg deficit against Banjul Hawks of Gambia when both teams clash in the second leg of their CAF Confederation Cup tie in Bakau on Wednesday, [url]Completesportsnigeria.com[/url] reports.

The Promise Keepers who have enjoyed a fine start to their campaign in the Nigeria Professional Football League this term went down to a shocking 2-1 defeat to their opponents in the first leg clash at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo.

Maikaba is however confident his team can still make it through to the next round, stating that his charges are not under any form of pressure going into the game.

“I have been in football for many years and in all those years, I have worked with different sets of players under different managements. But there is something special about Akwa United. Everyone is fully committed and dedicated towards the success of the team at all times,” the former Wikki Tourists coach told Akwa United’s official website.

“We were surprised with the result in Uyo, but we know that no two matches are the same. The game will be decided after the second leg on Wednesday, so the tie is still alive and we have 90 minutes to decide our fate.”

“We all know the importance of this match, we have been well motivated and the fans back home have given us their support and they are also expecting something from us, so we have to reciprocate by redeeming ourselves and giving them what they deserve.”

The match will kick off at the Independence Stadium in Bakau at 6pm local time, 7pm Nigerian time.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/maikaba-akwa-united-will-advance-cafcc-despite-home-defeat-banjul-hawks/

MFM FC forward, Sikiru Olatunbosun, has assured that he and teammates will not to get carried away by the result of their fist leg fixture against Real Bamako when they face the Malians in Wednesday’s CAF Champions League Preliminary Round second leg fixture, reports [url]Completesportsnigeria.com[/url] (CSN).

The Olukoya Boys were held to a 1-1 away draw by their opponent in the first leg tie and are in a good position to make it to the first round in what is their debut appearance in the competition.

A goalless draw or a win at the Agege Stadium will see them scale through the hurdle.

Olatunbosun has however issued a rallying call to his teammates to forget the result of the first leg and focus on the task at hand.

“It’s easier to believe the game is going to be an easy one because of the first leg result but that will be a great mistake on our part,” he opened up in a chat with CSN.

“We have only played the first leg and it’s important to get the job done by going all out for a win against them tomorrow (Wednesday).

“They (Real Bamako) gave us a good fight in the first leg, and we are expecting another tough game from them, but we will surely be equal to the task.

“Now, we will be playing at home and we have to make the advantage count.”

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/mfm-forward-olatunbosun-must-avoid-complacency-vs-real-bamako-cafcc-prelim-2nd-leg/

Super Eagles and Chelsea star, Victor Moses, has been named Player of the Year for Men while Asisat Oshoala won Player of the Year for Women in the maiden edition of the 2018 Aiteo/Nigeria Football Federation awards, [url]Completesportsnigeria.com[/url] reports.

The award was held inside the Grand Ballroom of the Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos on Monday.

Present at the award included NFF President Amaju Pinnick, First Vice President Seyi Akinwunmi, FIFA President Gianni Infantino, FIFA Secretary General Fatma Samoura, CAF President Ahmad Ahmad and Lagos State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode.

Former Nigeria internationals Segun Odegbami, Austin Okocha, Friday Ekpo, Christian Chukwu, Mutiu Adepoju, Daniel Amokachi, Garba Lawal, Emmanuel Okala, Felix Owolabi, Wilson Oruma, Femi Opabunmi, Ann Chiejine, Rita Nwadike were present at the awards, with some of them presenting awards.

The award for the Young Player of the Year for Men went to 2018 CHAN defender Ikouwem Udoh while the Young Player of the Year for Women went to Super Falcons forward Rasheedat Ajibade.

Plateau United coach Kennedy Boboye was presented with the Men’s Coach of the Year award, while former Super Falcons goalkeeper and assistant coach Ann Chiejine went home with the Women’s Coach of the Year award.

MFM FC forward Sikiru Olatunbosun got the award for the Goal of the Year for his wonder strike against Rangers last season.

In other categories, the Fair Play award went to Nigeria National League club Remo Stars, the Fans of the Year award was presented to El-Kanemi Warriors.

Channel Sports got Sports Station of the Year, Infantino was presented with the Platinum award and also awards were given to a selected Nigerian Legends both men and women.

Also, top Nigerian artistes like Simi, Tiwa Savage, Kiss Daniel, Reekado Banks, Pato Ranking and Falz were on hand to thrill audience a tthe awards.

Winners at the 2018 Aiteo/NFF Awards

Player of the Year (Men):
Victor Moses

Player of the Year (Women):
Asisat Oshoala

Coach of the Year (Men):
Kennedy Boboye

Coach of the Year (Women):
Ann Chiejine

Young Player of the Year (Men):
Ikouwem Udoh

Young Player of the Year (Women):
Rasheedat Ajibade

Fairplay Award:
Remo Stars FC

Goal of the Season:
Sikiru Olatunbosun

Fans of the Season:
El-Kanemi Warriors

Platinum Award categories:
Gianni Infantino

Sports Station of the Year:
Channels Sport

Legends Eleven:

Ann Chiejine
Austin Eguavoen
Okechukwu Uche
Christian Chukwu
Segun Odegbami
Nwankwo Kanu
Felix Oowlabi
Thompson Usiyen
Mercy Akide
Adokiye Amiesimaka
Austin Okocha

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/moses-oshoala-win-big-aiteo-nff-awards-okocha-kanu-odegbami-legends-xi/

Nigeria striker, Brown Ideye, was voted Malaga Man of the Match in their 2-1 home defeat to Valencia on Saturday.

Malaga made the announcement on their official website on Monday after the club fans chose the Tianjin Teda on-loan striker as their best player for the game.

Ideye opened his goals account for struggling Malaga when he gave them the lead in the 27th minute.

Former Arsenal midfielder Francis Coquelin drew Valencia level on 80 minutes before Daniel Parejo scored the winner from the penalty spot with five minutes remaining in the game.

Prior to Parejo’s goal, Ignasi Miquel was sent off for Malaga after receiving a straight red card.

The defeat left Malaga bottom of the table on 13 points, seven points away from safety.

“It’s very upsetting to lose a match like this. It’s very difficult, as the team isn’t in a situation to be able to lose a match in this way,” Ideye told the media in Spain.

“On the one hand I’m happy, but on the other, sad. It’s positive for me to have scored my first goal for my team, but unfortunately we were defeated.”

The 2013 Africa Cup of Nations winner however expressed confidence that Malaga can still escape relegation.

He added: “I say to the fans that we’ll never give up and hope they will continue supporting us and spurring us on. I understand that these are tough times for us, but I think everything will get better. There are 15 matches remaining and it’s possible to move up.”

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/ideye-voted-malaga-mvp-vs-valencia-upset-defeat/

Real Madrid survived a scare, coming from a 2-1 half time deficit to beat Real Betis 5-3 in Sunday’s thrilling La Liga Santander clash that produced eight yellow cards.

Real Madrid’s win comes days after the Los Blancos defeated Paris Saint-Germain 3-1 in the first leg of the round of 16 in the UEFA Champions League.

Marco Asensio gave visitors Real Madrid the lead in the 11th minute but Aissa Mandi restored parity for the hosts with a lovely header 22 minutes later.

An own goal from Nacho Fernandez eight minutes from half time gave Real Betis a deserved lead into the break.

At the restart, Real Madrid took the initiative starving Betis of possession and five minutes later, captain Sergio Ramos made it 2-2 with a thumping header from a Lucas Vazquez corner.

The goal was Ramos’ second this season for Real Madrid.

Asensio made it 3-2 with a cool finish. The goal was the 6000th Madrid strike in LaLiga. Real Madrid are the first side in the league’s history to reach that tally.

Cristiano Ronaldo put the game beyond reach for the hosts, scoring Real’s fourth before Sergio Leon scored a late goal for Betis to make it 4-3.
Substitute Karim Benzema’s made it 5-3 for Zinedine Zidane’s side.

The victory lifted Madrid to fourth place, one point adrift of Valencia, with a game in hand while Betis stay in ninth place.
Real Madrid travel to face Leganes in their next game on Wednesday.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/real-madrid-edge-real-betis-laliga-thriller/

Nigeria’s Bobsled team began their quest for a place on podium at the ongoing 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, South Korea, Saturday evening, finishing 19th in the official training Heats 1 and 2, [url]Completesportsnigeria.com[/url] reports.

Seun Adigun and Akuoma Omeoga competed in the race and finished with a time of 54.18 seconds in Heat 1.

The Nigerian pair finished 3:07 seconds later than first-placed Canadian duo of Kallie Humphries and Phylicia George who completed Heat 1 with a time of 51:11 seconds.

Jamie Poser and Aja Evans came second with a time of 51: 32 seconds while Mariana Jamaka and Lisa Buckwitz finished third with a time of 51:33.

In Heat 2, the Nigerian duo of Adigun and Omeoga finished with a time of 53:49 seconds, 2:23 seconds off first placed duo of Kallie Humphries and Phylicia George from Canada who completed Heat 2 with a time of 51:26 seconds.

Jamie Poser and Aja Evans from USA came second in Heat 2 with a time of 51:27 while Mariana Jamaka and Lisa Buckwitz finished third with a time of 51:43.

They are expected to take part in Heat 3 and 4 on Sunday, 18th February, 2018.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/winter-olympics-nigerian-bobled-pair-place-19th-heats/

Chelsea’s Eden Hazard has lashed out at persistent speculations linking him with a move to either Real Madrid, Barcelona or Paris Saint-Germain with the Belgian insisting that he’s commited to staying at Stamford Bridge.

The Belgium star, the key man in Antonio Conte’s squad and is the Blues’ top-scorer this season with 15 strikes to his name in all competitions, has reportedly drawn interest from some of Europe’s biggest sides.

However, Hazard is increasingly getting weary of being linked elsewhere which could affect his ability to focus fully on affairs at his current club.

“Yes, but they are interested in me for several years,” Hazard told Telefoot. “We talk about it for a long time. When it is not Paris, it is Real. And when it is not Real, it is Paris.

“Today, I am good where I am. If one day I have to move, I will move. But for now, I am good here. I am well-rounded and I will give my best for Chelsea.

“For now, I am here. There are still games to play. There are competitions we are trying to win. And then, there is the World Cup.

“I am here. I still have two and a half years on my contract at Chelsea. I am good here. I play every game. And I manage to play well in every game.

“The fans like me. My family is good here. We will see what will happen. In football, everything can happen, but also nothing can happen.”

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/hazard-blasts-im-happy-chelsea-stop-linking-real-madrid-psg/

The Nigeria Football Federation(NFF) have expressed deep shock following the sudden demise of Kano Pillars defender Chinedu Udoji in a road accident on Sunday, reports [url]Completesportsnigeria.com[/url].

Udoji was on his way back to the Kano Pillars club house after he visited his former Enyimba teammates at their hotel when the incident happened on Sunday night.

“The demise of @pillarsfc defender Chinedu Udoji comes as a rude shock to us this morning. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and club. May his soul rest in peace. #RIPUdoji,” the NFF tweeted on Monday morning.

Similarly, Udoji’s former club, Enyimba Football Club of Aba have commiserated with the centre-back’s family following his untimely death.

“We are distraught at the news of the passing of club legend and former captain, Chinedu Udoji. Our commiserations are with his family at this time,” the seven-time Nigeria Professional Football League champions wrote on their official Twitter handle on Monday.

Enugu Rangers, Rivers United and other NPFL clubs also expressed their sadness over the 28-year-old defender’s death.

“What can we say? Rest In Peace Chinedu Udoji,” Rangers tweeted, while Rivers United posted a picture of Udoji with his young family.

The late Udoji featured in Pillars’ NPFL match day nine clash against Enyimba on Sunday at the Sani Abacha Stadium which ended in a 1-1 draw.

He was adjudged man of the match after the highly entertaining encounter.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/nff-enyimba-rangers-rivers-united-mourn-chinedu-udojis-untimely-death/

Paris Saint-Germain superstar Neymar Jr has been persistently linked with Real Madrid and, as he leads his team to the Santiago Bernabeu on Wednesday evening, he’ll handle the pressure excellently according to team-mate Marquinhos.

In the lead up to the blockbuster clash, the Brazil international has been linked with a shock switch to Madrid, despite only joining PSG last year.

But Marquinhos said his team-mate, who has scored 28 goals this season, would ignore all the speculation.

“Neymar is a player who controls his emotions and the pressure well, and demonstrates it on the pitch,” he told a news conference.

“He’s a player with personality. He does his talking on the pitch. He’s doing great stuff in Paris.”

PSG come up against a Madrid side that have been unable to live up to their own lofty expectations this season, including sitting 17 points behind Barcelona in LaLiga.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/psgs-marquinhos-real-madrid-links-will-not-affect-neymars-game-bernabeu/

Much of the hard work of forward Roberto Firmino have often gone unnoticed but that is changing with the departure of Philippe Coutinho to Barcelona, Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp has said.

Firmino, 26, has enjoyed a fine campaign, scoring 20 goals in all competitions this season and Klopp feels Coutinho’s move to Barcelona in January has allowed his fellow Brazilian – who has netted seven times in eight Champions League games – to take more of the limelight.

“When I came in I said immediately that I was happy Roberto was here,” the German said ahead of his side’s last-16 tie against Porto.

“I don’t think he has stepped up recently but maybe it is more obvious because his situations are not overshadowed by Phil Coutinho’s situations. That’s how it is.

“He’s a very important player and he doesn’t always have to be the standout player. As often as he can be, that’s good.

“Is he underrated? I don’t think so, not anymore. I don’t know what other people think about Roberto Firmino. But people with a football brain judge him right.”

Along with his 20 goals in 36 games, Firmino has also provided 11 assists in all competitions.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/klopp-underrated-firmino-now-getting-credit-coutinho-exit/