Graeme Souness has issued a stern warning to Liverpool and Chelsea that may fail to make the top four of the Premier League if they continue to lose points.

Recall that both Chelsea and Liverpool are currently outside the top four places on the table.

The Blues have drawn their last two fixtures to slip to fifth, while the Reds are just eighth after winning just four of their 11 league matches.

Meanwhile, Newcastle United climbed into fourth spot, after beating third-placed Tottenham on Sunday.

Souness has claimed the Magpies could “easily” claim a top-four spot ahead of Chelsea and Liverpool.

“The normal order of things is changing. You have to say that Liverpool are in danger, you have to say maybe Chelsea are in danger – so there is an opening there for Newcastle.

“The teams I’m watching right now, and you can’t guarantee it, but I fancy Newcastle in terms of performances and attitude.

“They don’t suffer a load of injuries either and they could easily end up in the top four,” Souness said on talkSPORT.


Source:https://www.completesports.com/epl-chelsea-liverpool-may-struggle-to-make-top-four-souness-warns/

William Troost-Ekong is in buoyant mood after scoring his first goal for Sky Bet Championship club Watford this season.

Troost-Ekong was on target in the Hornets 4-0 drubbing of rivals, Luton Town on Sunday at the Vicarage Road.

The centre-back poked the ball in from close range just before half-time after Keinan Davis had opened scoring for the Hornets.

Joao Pedro and Senegal forward, Ismaila scored the other goals for Slaven Bilic’s side.

”I’m still buzzing to be honest; the adrenaline is still going and it’s everything we wanted from the game today,” Troost-Ekong told the club’s official website.

“It’s a party in the dressing room at the moment. We spoke about a lot of things this morning when we all got together. We said, guys, there’s no more time to talk, it’s time for action.

“It was amazing [to score]. I felt a bit lost when it went in and I didn’t know what to do with the celebration, but I was just buzzing. All goals count, I think I was about half a meter away and put it into the roof of the net – I almost put it over!”

The 29-year-old has made six league appearances for Watford.


Source:https://www.completesports.com/it-was-amazing-to-score-troost-ekong-thrilled-to-open-goal-account-for-watford/

Manchester United will allow Cristiano Ronaldo to leave in the January transfer window, the Sun reports.

But first Ronaldo will sit down for crunch talks with Erik ten Hag on Monday.

The 37-year-old caused fury last Wednesday when he refused to come on as a late substitute against Tottenham.

He then walked down the tunnel and left Old Trafford before the full-time whistle blew.

He was slapped with a ban by Ten Hag – forcing him to sit out of yesterday’s 1-1 draw with Chelsea – and fined £720,000.

SunSport revealed Ronaldo may well have played his last game for the Red Devils after burning bridges with any remaining allies at the club.

Ronaldo is under contract until the end of the season, but the Mirror report United are keen to get him off the books as soon as possible.

However, that relies on the Red Devils finding a club who want to stump up the money for the five-time Ballon d’Or winner – although Chelsea are reportedly considering a swoop.

SunSport revealed it would cost the Old Trafford side £10million to rip up his contract early due to his mammoth £360,000-a-week wages.

Ten Hag wants to see evidence of genuine remorse and an apology before allowing Ronaldo to rejoin first-team training.

The pair are set to sit down for a meeting to discuss the next steps.


Source:https://www.completesports.com/man-united-to-allow-ronaldo-leave-in-january/

Former Arsenal defender Martin Keown has declared that Man United star, Casemiro is the real defensive brain of the team after his brilliant performance against Chelsea.

Recall that Chelsea took the lead after Jorginho’s second half penalty, but United got level through a terrific late Casemiro’s header.

In a chat with BBC Match of the Day, Keown stated that Casemiro is an absolute class who knows when to sniff out danger.

“Absolute class. I think he’s a player they’ve been missing for years. Conducts everything in that midfield. The real defensive brain of the team, and he can pass as well.

“He’s never ruffled. He sniffs out danger. He senses things really well, he anticipates. If you give it to him in a tricky situation he can find a pass. You see people doing that in front of you, it’s brilliant. His positioning is first class.

“He’s always in the right place for his team. When they need him most he comes to the fore, takes responsibility, That is a wonderful header, his first goal for United. Look what it means to him.”


Source:https://www.completesports.com/casemiro-is-the-real-defensive-brain-of-man-united-keown/

Tottenham Hotspur manager, Antonio Conte, has warned fans not to expect miracles from him due to the number of players that are injured.

He made this known on the backdrop of his team”s 2-1 loss to Newcastle United in Sunday’s Premier League game.

The Italian tactician also stated that he needs time because he has just started the process of building a strong squad.

“The fans have to understand we are doing our best in every moment. The commitment was really high. It is a difficult moment for us as we don’t have three or four players in the squad; then you are in trouble. We have to try to manage and overcome this situation together. This squad can’t allow us to lose four players.

“You see the title contenders in these periods when you play every three days because you need to have depth in your squad. A strong squad with great quality. We have only just started our process. From the Conference League, we are now playing Champions League. We are trying to improve step-by-step, but you need time and patience. With my experience, we are doing well, not the best, but we need time and patience. And to understand ways we can overcome problems in the future.

“If we play one game every six or seven days, we can fight for something important. To play a lot of games every three days, we need to build our path and patience. We can’t invent wins or do a miracle.

“We have just started the process. If someone doesn’t want to listen, it’s not my problem. From my experience we have to have patience. These players want to work a lot but it’s not enough. If we have many injuries it affects our season,” Conte said.


Source:https://www.completesports.com/dont-always-expect-miracles-conte-warns-spurs-fans/

Cristiano Ronaldo has been dropped for Manchester United’s trip to Chelsea on Saturday.

The move to drop Ronaldo is punishment for refusing to go on as a late substitute and for leaving early in Wednesday’s 2-0 win over Tottenham.

Ronaldo was named among the substitutes against Spurs as United earned an impressive victory over Spurs thanks to goals from Fred and Bruno Fernandes.

Erik ten Hag’s decision not to bring Ronaldo on prompted a public display of frustration as the 37-year-old walked down the Old Trafford touchline and up the tunnel before the full-time whistle.

Ronaldo is now expected to train away from the first-team squad.

Speaking after the game, Ten Hag insisted he would “deal with” Ronaldo on Thursday, where it was confirmed he would not feature in Saturday’s trip to Stamford Bridge.

A club statement read: “Cristiano will not be part of the Manchester United squad for this Saturday’s game against Chelsea. The rest of the squad is fully focused on preparing for that fixture.”


Source:https://www.completesports.com/ronaldo-dropped-for-man-uniteds-trip-to-chelsea/

Olympic Eagles head coach Salisu Yusuf has unveiled an 18-man squad for the team’s U-23 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Tanzania.

Yusuf named a number of unknown foreign-based players in the squad.

Former Flying Eagles striker, Success Makanjuola, Promise David, who plays for Sirens FC of Malta and FC Vizela of Portugal’s Adeyemo Emmanuel are some of the foreign-based stars, who make the cut.

The players and their officials will travel to Dar es Salaam for the first leg today.

The first leg will take place on Saturday, while the reverse fixture is billed for the Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, Ibadan a week later.

THE FULL LIST

1. isaiah Ejeh – Mjallby, Sweden.

2. Promise David – Sirens FC, Malta.

3. Michael Ologo Inainfe – Istanbulspor, Turkey.

4. Ogunniyi Oluwatimileyin Abiodun – Fk Auda, Latvia.

5. Adeyemo Oluwapelumi Emmanuel – FC Vizela, Portugal.

6. Success Makanjuola – CD Diocesano, Spain.

7. Hezekiah Okirikpo – Dundalk FC, Ireland.

8. Naziru Auwalu Ibrahim – Rangers Int’l.

9. Munir Idris – Niger Tornadoes.

10. Edidiong Enobong Ezekiel – Remo Stars.

11. Daniel Wotlai – Abia Warriors.

12. Christopher Nwaeze – Plateau United.

13. Evans Ogbonda – Akwa United.

14. Qudus Olamilekan Akanni – Remo Stars

15. Nathaniel Nwosu- Water FC Abuja.

16. Dominion Ohaka – Water FC Abuja.

17. Amah John – Box-to-Box FC.

18. Bamayi Calocho – Yum-Yum FC


Source:https://www.completesports.com/u-23-afcon-qualifier-salisu-unveils-18-man-squad-for-tanzania-clash/

Former Arsenal winger Jermaine Pennant has revealed that the Gunners will fail to maintain the momentum for the title race when the Premier League returns after the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

Recall that Arsenal are still top of the league table after 10 matches.

During an appearance on talkSPORT, Pennant said: “I think that Arsenal, after Christmas, will cookie crumble like they did the year before to drop out of the Champions League spots.

“I’m gonna get criticised and battered by Arsenal fans being an ex-Gooner!”

He added: “What [Mikel] Arteta has done at Arsenal, where they were two, three seasons ago and what they are doing now, is absolutely amazing.

“We are giving Arsenal a lot of praise about where they are going and how they have conducted themselves in the first ten games. But it is all about will they maintain that, will they continue that after Christmas?

“We have seen a lot of teams come flying out the blocks and then as soon as the Christmas period comes and the games come thick and fast, they slip over easily.”

Personal life

In February 2004, Pennant was given a 16-month driving ban after being caught drink-driving in Paddington, West London. On 23 January 2005, he was arrested and again charged with drink-driving, and driving while uninsured, after crashing his Mercedes into a lamp-post in Aylesbury while still serving the ban for the first offence.

During questioning, Pennant initially identified himself as his friend Ashley Cole. Pennant pleaded guilty to drink-driving and driving while disqualified, and was sentenced to 90 days in prison on 1 March. He was released on parole after 30 days and immediately returned to playing for Birmingham City, although he had to wear an electronic tag at all times, including while on the pitch. It emerged during the trial that he was illiterate.


Source:https://www.completesports.com/pennant-arsenals-epl-title-challenge-will-collapse-after-2022-world-cup/

Asisat Oshoala was voted Player of the Match in Barcelona’s 9-0 home win against Benfica on match day one of the UEFA women’s Champions League on Wednesday, Completesports.com reports.

Oshoala was announced as the best player on UEFA’s women’s Champions League Twitter handle.

The Super Falcons star scored two goals and provided two assists as Barcelona got their campaign in Group D off to a perfect start.

Oshoala set up Barca’s first and second goals before scoring her side’s third and eight goals.

She has now scored three goals in all competitions for the former European champions this season.

The reigning Africa women’s Player of the Year was the top scorer in the Spanish topflight with 20 goals term.


Source:https://www.completesports.com/uefa-oshoala-named-player-of-the-match-in-barcas-9-0-win-vs-benfica/

Super Falcons striker Asisat Oshoala scored two goals and provided two assists, as Barcelona hammered visiting Benfica 9-0 on match day one in Group D of the UEFA women’s Champions League, Completesports.com reports.

Oshoala’s brace took her goals to three in all competitions this season.

Barcelona got off to the perfect start as Oshoala set up Patri Guijarro for the opener just one minute into the game.

Oshoala then provided her second assist for Barcelona’s second goal scored by Aitana Bonmati on 14 minutes.

In the 34th minute Oshoala made it 3-0 and got her second goal and Barcelona’s eight with six minutes left.

On Monday, Oshoala placed 16th in the 2022 women’s Ballon d’Or award which was won by her Barcelona teammate Alexia Putellas.

The award which was held in Paris, France, also saw Barcelona youngster Gavi claim the KOPA trophy (best young player award).


Source:https://www.completesports.com/uefa-wcl-oshoala-bags-brace-provides-two-assists-as-barcelona-hammer-benfica-9-0/

Super Eagles goalkeeper Francis Uzoho’s head coach at Omonia Nicosia Neil Lennon has been sacked by the Cypriot club side after seven months in charge.

Omonia Nicosia made the announcement soon after a 1-0 home defeat by Nea Salamis that leaves them seventh in the Division One table.

Former Celtic boss Lennon led Omonia to Cypriot Cup success in May.

Last week Lennon almost guided Omonia to a shock 0-0 draw against Manchester United in the Europa League but eventually fell to a 1-0 loss thanks to a Scot McTominay late strike.

The statement from Omonia read: “We inform you that we have agreed with Neil Lennon to stop our collaboration,” the club said in a statement on their website.

“Unfortunately, the ongoing competitive instability and the significant losses of points in the championship are the main reasons that made us decide to end our partnership.

“Mr Lennon has written his name in the history of Omonia and deserves the respect and recognition of all of us. Our paths separate, but the memories of our collaboration will unite us forever.

“We sincerely thank Mr Lennon for his contribution and wish him every success in his future career.”

Lennon signed a deal to take him up to the end of the 2023-24 campaign when he was appointed by Omonia in March.

He had been out of management since stepping down from his second managerial spell at Celtic Park just over a year before that.

Lennon led Celtic to 10 major trophies across his two stints as manager, winning two league titles, two Scottish Cups and a League Cup having returned to the club in February 2019 following the departure of Brendan Rodgers.


Source:https://www.completesports.com/uzohos-coach-at-omonia-nicosia-lennon-sacked/

Abia Warriors have completed the signing of four new players ahead of the 2022/23 Nigeria Professional Football League season.

The four players are; Femi Thomas, Iwu Emmanuel, Aniekwe Ugonna and Isah Saidu.

Veteran goalkeeper Thomas swapped Heartland for the Promise Keepers after just one season with the Naze Millionaires.

Thomas is one of the most experienced shot stoppers in the NPFL .

The former home-based Super Eagles goalkeeper once had stint with Nasarawa United, Ocean Boys, Rivers United, Enyimba and Enugu Rangers.

Emmanuel, Ugonna and Saidu linked up with Abia Warriors from Kwara United, MFM and Ottasolo FC respectively.


Source:https://www.completesports.com/npfl-abia-warriors-sign-four-new-players/

Manchester United’s former striker, Louis Saha has expressed disappointment with the way Erik Ten Hag has disrespected Cristiano Ronaldo.

Recall that Ronaldo led the line for the Red Devils at Old Trafford and after seeing two efforts ruled out, the Portuguese was replaced by Marcus Rashford with 18 minutes left on the clock against Newcastle United.

In an interview with Boyle Sports, Saha said that the former Real Madrid star has not declined in any way, adding there is ‘no indication’ he is slowing down.

“Ronaldo has been disrespected,’’ Saha told Boyle Sports.

“I have not fully agreed with the management of Ten Hag.

“I can understand why Ronaldo was upset after the Newcastle game because he trusts himself to score, lately, he has not been as lucky and efficient, it happens, and people need to realise he is not a robot.

“When people are tired, Ronaldo is a killer, there is no one better than him when you are under pressure to score important goals, he did it last year and there is no reason for him not to continue that this season.

“I have not seen any indication physically that shows he’s slowing down.”

Style of play

A versatile attacker, Ronaldo is capable of playing on either wing as well as through the centre of the pitch, and, while ostensibly right-footed, is very strong with both feet. Tactically, Ronaldo has undergone several evolutions throughout his career. While at Sporting and during his first season at Manchester United, he was typically deployed as a traditional winger on the right side of midfield, where he regularly looked to deliver crosses into the penalty area. In this position, he was able to use his pace and acceleration, agility and technical skills to take on opponents in one-on-one situations. Ronaldo became noted for his dribbling and flair, often displaying an array of tricks and feints, such as the step overs and so-called ‘chops’ that became his trademark; he has also been known to use the flip–flap.


Source:https://www.completesports.com/youve-completely-disrespected-ronaldo-saha-slams-ten-hag/

Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea has disclosed that Erik Ten Hag has made a positive impact since joining Old Trafford.

De Gea in an interview with the Club’s official website said that manager Erik ten Hag has influenced the players’ mentality.

De Gea told United’s official website: “Of course, of course. I think we’re playing better.

“We are winning some difficult games, keeping some good clean sheets as well. That’s super important for us and I feel it.

“The players want it more, we are hungry and that’s a good signal, so let’s keep doing well and keep fighting together”

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.

His unorthodox, yet effective, goalkeeping style of making saves with his feet accredited with changing goalkeeping. An elegant and athletic keeper, De Gea is known in particular for his outstanding reflexes, agility, and shot-stopping ability between the posts, as well as his penchant for saving the ball with his feet, which enable him to produce acrobatic dives and spectacular saves. Former goalkeeper Shay Given labelled De Gea as the best shot-stopper in the world in 2018.

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/ten-hag-has-influenced-man-uniteds-game-positively-de-gea/

Flamingos forward Opeyemi Ajakaye has celebrated her Player of the Match award and the team’s qualification to the knockout stage of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in India.

The 16-year-old was picked as the best player for the second consecutive game in Flamingos’ 2-1 win against Chile on Monday afternoon.

Ajakaye set up Blessing Emmanuel for the opening goal, while Bisola Mosaku scored the second.

Bankole Olowookere’s side also secured their passage to the quarter-finals following the win.

“Happy to have received the player of the match award against Chile! Even happier to have qualified for the knockout stage!!
OPE LO YEMI! ��❤️��⚽️⭐️,”she wrote on her Twitter handle.

The Nigerian girls will take on United States of America in Mumbai on Friday.


Source:https://www.completesports.com/2022-u-17-wwc-flamingos-ajakaye-celebrates-potm-victory-over-chile/

Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga has revealed that the Blues’ winning mentality is back and they are ready to maintain the momentum.

On the back of a Champions League win at AC Milan, Chelsea won at Leeds United.

“I’m really happy because of the win and because I helped the team,” said Kepa.

“It’s a really tough stadium to play. We started the game very well, we controlled, we scored first, but after scoring we dropped a little bit our performance with the ball. We lost the control and we struggled in the last 20, 25 minutes of the first half.

“In half-time we changed a little bit and in the second half we managed the game much better. After a big win away in the Champions League, it’s not easy coming again to the Premier League, be focused, go away, travel.

“We are winning at big stadiums. Winning here is not easy, winning in Milan is not easy. We are getting the manager’s ideas better and better.”

Style of play

As a prospect and young player, Arrizabalaga was regarded as one of the most promising young goalkeepers in Europe, known for his consistency, speed, agility, shot-stopping ability, and quick reflexes, which enables him to produce “brilliant saves.”] Arrizabalaga was also known for his footwork, distribution, and skill with the ball at his feet, as well as his ability to rush off his line, which allowed him to act as a sweeper keeper and play the ball out of the back in Maurizio Sarri’s possession-based system that relied on a high back-line.

Former goalkeeper Manuel Almunia praised Arrizabalaga in 2017 as a goalkeeper with “good, strong feet” and “good movement,” who was capable saving the ball with his feet, and also described him as a keeper who possessed “presence and character,” also adding: “I’m sure he’ll make a great keeper.” In 2018, former Athletic Bilbao defender Andoni Goikoetxea described Arrizabalaga as being “good in the air,” noting that “he jumps and catches the ball very well,” while Richard Fitzpatrick of Bleacher Report described him as being “good at marshalling a defence.”

Following a strong start to the first part of his debut season with Chelsea, Arrizabalaga came under criticism for his inconsistency and poor performances, as well as his low save-percentage. He ended the season strongly with a series of excellent performances, in particular en route to his club’s Europa League victory. During his second season with Chelsea, he once again drew criticism over his shot-stopping ability and mistakes, which led him to be dropped by his Chelsea manager Frank Lampard for six matches. Arrizabalaga regained his starting position during the FA Cup tie against Liverpool later in the season. However, following more goalkeeping mistakes he was once again dropped for the final league match of the season and the FA Cup Final. He finished the season with the worst save percentage in Premier League history.


Source:https://www.completesports.com/kepa-chelseas-winning-mentality-is-back/

Marrakech and Rabat have been confirmed as the two venues that will host the second edition of the CAF Women’s Champions League from 30 October to 13 November 2022.

The matches will be played at Prince Héritier Moulay El Hassan Stadium (Rabat) and Grand Stade in Marrakech.

The final of the tournament will take place in the mythical Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, the same venue that hosted the final of the TotalEnergies Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, Morocco 2022 on 23 July in Rabat.

Eight clubs will take part in Africa’s biggest women club football competition.

The group A includes hosts ASFAR (Morocco), Simba Queens SC (Tanzania), Green Buffaloes (Zambia) and Determine Girls (Liberia) while the group B comprises Mamelodi Sundowns (South Africa), Bayelsa Queens (Nigeria), Wadi Degla (Egypt) and TP Mazembe (DR Congo).


Source:https://www.completesports.com/marrakech-rabat-to-host-caf-womens-champions-league/

Former Portugal star, Luis Figo has revealed that he would have joined Liverpool in 2005.

Recall that the Portugal legend was seeking a new challenge in 2005 following a successful five-year spell at Real Madrid, with the Reds among the clubs interested.

It was Inter who ultimately secured Figo’s signature, however, leaving the forward’s Anfield wish tantalisingly unfulfilled.

He told The Guardian: “I would have liked to go. We talked a lot.

“One week they say, ‘No, wait, we can’t do it just now’ and then they sign a player. Then, ‘Wait a few more days, we need to sort this first’ and they sign another. I think: ‘Are you messing with me, or what?’

“Inter appear, I go to Milan, meet [club president Massimo] Moratti and take the decision. I loved Inter, it was exactly what I needed.”

Personal life

Figo is married to Swedish model Helen Svedin. They have three daughters – Daniela (born in 1999), Martina (born in 2002), and Stella (born in 2004).

Along with his countryman, former Portugal national team manager and former youth team coach Carlos Queiroz, Figo was briefly joint seat holder for A1 Team Portugal, in A1 Grand Prix, during the 2005–06 season. He owns an upscale bar in the Algarve region of Portugal.

Figo is an ambassador for the Stop TB Partnership in the fight against tuberculosis. He works closely with Inter Milan, serving as an ambassador for the club at functions across Europe. He is also a board member of the Inter Campus charity project run by Inter Milan.

Figo is the founder of Network90, a private members’ networking site for the Professional Football Industry. Figo is fluent in five languages: Portuguese, Spanish, English, Italian and French. He has also congratulated his wife on her birthday on Instagram in Swedish, although he has never spoken the language in media appearances.


Source:https://www.completesports.com/how-i-almost-joined-liverpool-in-2005-figo/

Paris Saint-Germain forward, Kylian Mbappe has debunked reports circulating in the social media that he has plans to leave the club in January.

It was claimed Mbappe felt ‘betrayed’ by PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi and wanted to leave the Ligue 1 champions as soon as possible.

According to the 24-year-old, he was surprised by the news.

“I never asked for my departure in January.

“The information that came out on the day of the [Champions League match against Benfica], I did not understand it. I am not involved in this information neither directly nor indirectly,” Mbappe told reporters after PSG’s 1-0 win over Marseille in Ligue 1 on Sunday.

“I was as shocked by this news as everyone else. People may think I’m involved, I’m not at all.

“I was taking a nap, my entourage was at my little brother’s game. We were stunned when we found out.

“Afterwards, we had to deal with it, we had a match to play. I just wanted to say that it’s completely false, I’m very happy here,” Mbappe added.

Outside football

In a 2018 interview with Time, Mbappé spoke about the sacrifices he made as a teenager to focus on his football development: “I did not have the moments of so-called normal people during adolescence, like going out with friends, enjoying good times.” But despite missing out on a “normal” life, Mbappé states he is “living the life he always dreamed of”. Just over four years after making his professional debut he had gotten over 50 million Instagram followers. While he admits his “life has been totally turned upside down” since he first entered the spotlight, he says he is “happy”.

On 25 June 2021, Kylian’s brother Ethan signed an “aspiring” contract with Paris Saint-Germain in a deal lasting until 2024.


Source:https://www.completesports.com/mbappe-ive-no-plans-to-quit-psg/

Napoli head coach Luciano Spalletti has explained why Victor Osimhen is a different kind of striker from his fellow forward Giacomo Raspadori at the Serie A leaders.

Osimhen netted the winning goal as Napoli edged Bologna 3-2 to reclaim top spot.

He was also on target in the 4-2 win against Ajax in the Champions League last week after returning from a long injury layoff.

Amd speaking after the hard fought win, Spalletti explained Osimhen’s impact after coming on, what makes him standout and his team’s performance.

“What became fundamental was managing to change the inertia of the game,” Spalletti told DAZN.

“We always approached it the same way, trying to get the ball into the penalty area, to chase it down in numbers, and these are very important matches to take home, as there is the risk the team can relax and try to play in a ‘normal’ fashion.

“It was good to see that after mistakes, the players would try to hunt the ball back down immediately. That made me think it is wonderful to be the coach of these lads.

“Once again, the players who came off the bench proved decisive in the end, so that can be more important than starting the match. Everyone is involved.

“It allows you to make changes that don’t need to be rushed, because you know there are other options at your disposal.

“Victor (Osimhen)is a different type of striker to Giacomo Raspadori, he attacks the space, and Jack was also tired after a lot of games.”

He added:“The team plays great football, I see them involved and we want to keep adding more options to our approach. I see they are interested in training and want to do their best for their teammates.”


Source:https://www.completesports.com/why-osimhen-is-a-different-kind-of-striker-napoli-coach-spalletti/

Nigeria’s U-23 Eagles lost 3-0 to VIA Football Academy in a friendly game played inside the Lekan Salami stadium, Adamasingba, Ibadan
on Thursday.

The game was part of preparations for the Salisu Yusuf-led side ahead of their 2023 U-23 AFCON second round qualifier against Tanzania.

The first leg will see Tanzania host the U-23 Eagles on Saturday, 22 October while the reverse fixture comes up on Saturday, 29 October, 2022.

To get to the second round Tanzania edged South Sudan on away goals. After playing a goalless draw at home, Tanzania held South Sudan to a 3-3 draw away to advance.

On their part the U-23 Eagles had a bye into the second round of the qualifiers.

The 2023 Africa U-23 AFCON is the fourth edition which will take place in Morocco in June next year.

Same as previous editions, the tournament will served as African qualifying for the Olympic football tournament, with the top three teams of the tournament qualifying for the 2024 Summer Olympic men’s football tournament in Paris.


Source:https://www.completesports.com/via-football-academy-thrash-u-23-eagles-3-0-in-friendly-game/

Nigeria’s Super Sand Eagles will not compete at the 2022 Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations.

This is as a result of the country’s withdrawal from the competition to be hosted by Mozambique.

Meanwhile, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has released a revised fixture for the competition.

The withdrawal of Nigeria will see seven teams now compete for the ultimate prize at the fifth edition tournament.

Hosts Mozambique, Malawi and Morocco are the three (3) teams in Group A.

Meanwhile four teams make up Group B. These are Senegal, Uganda, Madagascar, and Egypt.

The Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations will kick off on 21 October at Vilankulos Arena with a match between hosts Mozambique, 2021 AFCON runners-up, and Malawi whose participation is the first time.

The Beach Soccer AFCON final will take place on 28 October.


Source:https://www.completesports.com/nigeria-withdraw-from-beach-soccer-afcon/

Arsenal boss, Mikel Arteta has revealed that he won’t criticised Chelsra striker, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang for attacking his management style.

Recall that in an interview with Jewellers on their YouTube channel shortly after leaving Arsenal for Barcelona, Aubameyang aimed several digs at Arteta, which included that the Spaniard cannot manage big players.

Aubameyang was forced to leave Arsenal in February 2022 after falling out with Arteta, who stripped him of the captaincy and banished him from the Gunners’ first team.

And addressing the media on Wednesday, ahead of their Thursday Europa League clash, Arteta said Aubameyang was free to say whatever he likes.

“People are free to discuss what they want,” the former Manchester City assistant coach said when asked what he makes of Aubameyang’s comments and handling big players.

Talking about the atmosphere in his squad this season, he added, “Phenomenal, I’ve never been in a better dressing room.

“It’s an absolute pleasure to be in this group.”


Source:https://www.completesports.com/aubameyang-is-free-to-criticise-me-arteta/

Nigeria legend Austin Okocha has showered encomium on Alex Iwobi for turning his Everton career around.

The 26-year-old arrived Everton from Arsenal in 2019 but took time to settle down at the club.

The versatile midfielder struggled under managers Carlo Ancelotti and Rafa Benitez failing to feature regularly for the Toffees.

Iwobi is however enjoying a new lease of life under Frank Lampard, who has played him different positions since his arrival in January.

The player has scored one goal and provided four assists in nine league appearances for the Merseysiders this season.

He has also played every minutes of the club’s league matches.

”It’s great to see him playing to his potential,” Okocha told Everton Live.

“We all knew that he’s got something special, but it’s taken him a little while to settle down and I also think playing under a great manager, who really wants to improve his game and has been playing him in his right position has made a big difference.

“Alex is down to earth. You can’t expect a player to give any more than he does. Whether it’s going well for him or not, you can guarantee he’ll put sweat on his jersey, and that’s what you want from a player – to give 100 per cent at any given time. That, for me, is the minimum requirement for a player and Alex gives that every time.

“I’ve always said to him that he can be too honest! But [playing in different positions] shows he is willing to sacrifice for the team, even if that affects his personal goals and performances.

“I’m glad to see him playing regularly in his natural position, where he can get on the ball and make things happen.

“I think Everton are enjoying the best of Alex now and we’re all delighted that he’s playing well.”


Source:https://www.completesports.com/okocha-lavishes-praise-on-special-talent-iwobi/

Barcelona head coach Xavi says the Catalans do not deserve to progress to the knockout stage of this season’s Champions League following their disappointing 3-3 draw at the Nou Camp.

Barcelona’s hopes of making it to the round of 16 suffered a setback after the six-goal thriller with Inter.

All Inter need now is a win against Viktoria Plzen to guarantee qualification for the Round of 16, whereas Barcelona are heading for the Europa League for the second year in a row.

“There are two ways to read the game,” said Xavi in his press conference.

“The first half was excellent, we attacked well and made Inter suffer, working well in midfield with Pedri and Gavi. In the second half, we made too many mistakes, starting from the one of their first goal that made our heads drop.

“There was an error on the second goal too and that cannot happen in this type of match. Mistakes are expensive in the Champions League.

“We tried to fight back with character, but if you can’t beat Inter at home, you don’t deserve to progress in the Champions League.”

“We know that it is no longer in our hands, we don’t deserve to carry on in the Champions League. There isn’t much hope left, you pay a heavy price for these errors. It was an excellent first half and we made two fatal errors.

“I am the coach and must take responsibility when my players make mistakes. We should’ve been more concentrated, but came out for the second half with the wrong attitude.”

“It is a tough blow for us, the right word would be cruel.

“We’ve got to focus on the Liga, where we want to remain top. It’s a long season, we didn’t give our best due to our own errors and this competition has been cruel to us. We must carry on.”


Source:https://www.completesports.com/we-dont-deserve-to-carry-on-in-the-champions-league-xavi-reacts-after-barcas-disappointing-draw-vs-inter/

Former Flamingos head coach, Bala Nikyu, has explained what the current team should do to recover from their loss to Germany on Tuesday at the ongoing U-17 women’s World Cup in India.

Despite going into the break 1-0 ahead, the Flamingos fell to a 2-1 defeat in their Group B opener.

The team will hope to bounce back from the setback when they face New Zealand in their second group game on Friday.

New Zealand also suffered defeat in their group opener following a 3-1 loss to Chile also on Tuesday.

And reacting to the defeat Nikyu, who led the Flamingos to the 2014 and 2016 U-17 women’s World Cup, urged the current team to have confidence they can bounce back.

“For the German team to equalise and even go ahead to go ahead and win, if care is not taken they may be become jittery,” Nikyu said on Brila FM.

“And the next match they will be calculating if we don’t win our next match what will happen to us which might create fear.

“But I think the only thing that can save them is to tell themselves they can do it.“


Source:https://www.completesports.com/2022-u-17-wwc-how-nigeria-can-recover-from-defeat-to-germany-ex-flamingos-coach-nikyu/

Super Eagles forward Cyriel Dessers has promised to score more goals for Cremonese after opening his account for the Serie A club.

Dessers was on target in the club’s 4-1 defeat to league leaders Napoli on Sunday night.

“First goal in Serie A, scoring under our curve was a great emotion. We continue to grow, to the next! Force Cremo,” he wrote on his Twitter handle.

Cremonese will hope for more goals from the 27-year-old so that they escape relegation.

They are second from bottom on the table with four points.

Dessers teamed up with the Italian club this past summer from Belgian club Genk.

David Okereke is the other Nigeria star at Cremonese.


Source:https://www.completesports.com/serie-a-dessers-promises-cremonese-more-goals/

Shakhtar Donetsk coach Igor Jovićević says he’s optimistic his team can cause a major upset against Real Madrid in today’s Champions League clash.

Recall that Shakhtar will host the tie tonight in Warsaw, Poland and not in Ukraine due to the ongoing Russia invasion.

However, in an interview with TribalFootball, Jovićević stated that he’s confident his team can beat Real Madrid

Jovićević said: “In football anything can happen but if you play this match 10 times, Real will win 9. We need our best night.

“We know that teams weaker than Shakhtar have beaten Real Madrid, so everything It’s possible.

“In the first leg we did a lot of good things and that would have been enough to beat many teams, but it didn’t happen with Real.”

Playing career

After being labeled as the new Zvonimir Boban while playing in the youth team of the most successful Croatian club, Dinamo Zagreb, with only 17 years he signed, in summer of 1991, a contract with Real Madrid. His transfer cost was one million dollars, however, the contract was based on the fact that the Merengues, in case of lining him in the first team, would have to pay a total of five million, being that the probable cause of having him playing in the B squad. There, he was trained by Rafael Benítez, among others, and had an opportunity of playing along some youngsters, like Raúl and Guti.

On 11 June 1995, he gets injured while playing against Ukraine with the Croatia national under-21 team. After having a one-year pause due to injury, he returned to Croatia to play with another club from the Croatian capital, NK Zagreb.

Personal life

His father, Čedomir “Čedo” Jovićević (1952–2020) born in Žabljak, Montenegro, was the famous defender of Dinamo Zagreb, playing ten years with the most successful Croatian club. His mother, Sanja, is from Zagreb.

Igor is married and has two sons: Filip and Marcos, both players of the Dinamo Zagreb Academy.


Source:https://www.completesports.com/ucl-impossible-is-nothing-jovicevic-speaks-ahead-of-shakhtar-donetsk-vs-real-madrid/

Former Liverpool and Manchester United striker, Michael Owen, has tipped Arsenal to battle Man City tooth and nail for this season’s Premier League title.

Owen made this known on the backdrop of the Gunners impressive 3-2 win over Liverpool at the weekend.

Recall that Arsenal are currently on top of the Premier League table with a point ahead of Manchester City after beating Liverpool over the weekend.

According to him, he cannot believe that Arsenal will be on top of the Premier League table after nine matches, adding that their current form is not a fluke.

“I never thought I would say this, but yes, I do. The way they are. There is no fluke about it, at the moment. They have got very, very good players. They are playing in a very good way. Confidence throughout the team and confidence at the club,” Owen told Premier League Productions.

“Some of the main protagonists are struggling, at the moment. So, yes, I do think they could be the biggest challengers [for the Premier League title]. I never thought I would say that. I can’t believe it.”

He added, “There is no question Arsenal deserved to win [against Liverpool]. I thought they played really well. Lots of energy. There is a great vibe throughout the stadium. Liverpool contributed; they didn’t play badly at all.

“But what I think you are seeing, which is what we expected actually before the game. And that Liverpool have dropped 5-10% on last season and Arsenal have picked things up on about 20% from last season. The tide is turning slightly. I thought Arsenal deserved it.”

Personal life

Owen met Louise Bonsall at primary school in 1984. The couple bought Lower Soughton Manor in Flintshire, North Wales, where they keep his cars and her horses. They were engaged on 14 February 2004, and married on 24 June 2005,] at the Carden Park Hotel in Chester, Cheshire.

The couple had initially planned to get married at their home, but changed plans when they were informed that if a licence was granted for a marriage ceremony the venue must be made available for other weddings for three years, so opted to marry in a register office in informal clothing and have a lavish reception the next day in the grounds of their home.


Source:https://www.completesports.com/arsenal-will-challenge-man-city-for-epl-title-owen/

Liverpool Colombian forward Luis Diaz is expected to be sidelined until December after suffering a knee injury in Sunday’s 3-2 Premier League defeat at Arsenal, BBC Sport reports.

Diaz, 25, had a scan on Monday and does not require surgery but will not play for Liverpool again until after the World Cup.

Jurgen Klopp’s side are due to play 10 matches before the Premier League will go on break for the World Cup which will kickoff 20 November.
Liverpool return to action with a trip to Aston Villa on 26 December.

Diaz, who has been one of Liverpool’s better performers in a disappointing start to the campaign, left Emirates Stadium on crutches wearing a knee brace having limped off shortly before the break after Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey landed on his knee.

Trent Alexander-Arnold was also withdrawn at half-time after sustaining an ankle problem with manager Jurgen Klopp saying that it did not “look good for both”.

Meanwhile, Liverpool will be guests to Scottish giants Rangers on Wednesday in the Champions League and then host Manchester City at Anfield in the Premier League on Sunday.


Source:https://www.completesports.com/liverpool-forward-diaz-out-for-two-months-with-injury/

Ex-Real Madrid goalkeeper, Jerzy Dudek, has claimed Lionel Messi insulted Pepe and Sergio Ramos during El Clasico encounters.

Dudek joined the LaLiga giants in 2007, where he mainly occupied a place on the bench.

The Polish goalkeeper played second-fiddle to Iker Casillas, but was involved in a few heated Clasico matches during his spell.

Speaking to Marca, Dudek said: “He was very provocative, as were Barcelona and their manager Pep Guardiola.

“They were always ready to annoy you and many times they managed it perfectly. I’ve seen and listened to Messi saying very rude things to Pepe and Ramos that you can’t even think about.

“Imagine what can come out of the mouth of a person who seems so calm and friendly.”

Style of play

Due to his short stature, Messi has a lower centre of gravity than taller players, which gives him greater agility, allowing him to change direction more quickly and evade opposing tackles; this has led the Spanish media to dub him La Pulga Atómica (“The Atomic Flea”). Despite being physically unimposing, he possesses significant upper-body strength, which, combined with his low centre of gravity and resulting balance, aids him in withstanding physical challenges from opponents; he has consequently been noted for his lack of diving in a sport rife with playacting.

His short, strong legs allow him to excel in short bursts of acceleration while his quick feet enable him to retain control of the ball when dribbling at speed. His former Barcelona manager Pep Guardiola once stated, “Messi is the only player that runs faster with the ball than he does without it.” Although he has improved his ability with his weaker foot since his mid-20s, Messi is predominantly a left-footed player; with the outside of his left foot, he usually begins dribbling runs, while he uses the inside of his foot to finish and provide passes and assists.


Source:https://www.completesports.com/dudek-how-messi-insulted-pepe-ramos-at-el-clasico/

Enyimba have announced the signing of five new players ahead of the 2022/33 season, reports Completesports.com.

The quartet of Chibuike Nwaiwu, Nonso Nzediegwu, Murphy Ndukwu and Chijoke Mbaoma were all signed from Heartland Football Club of Owerri.

Defensive midfielder James Oransaya linked up with the People’s Elephant from Nigeria National League outfit, Gateway United.

Nwaiwu, a combative midfielder has joined on a two years deal and serves as a direct replacement for Farouk Mohammed who has left the club after five years.

Wing forwards Nzediegwu and Ndukwu will bring the pace and explosiveness that headline their marauding styles on the flanks.

Mbaoma arrives with versatility, possessing the impressive ability to play across the attack line. The power-and-pace forward penned a two years deal and will be handed the number 15 shirt.


Source:https://www.completesports.com/npfl-enyimba-unveil-five-new-players/