₦airaland Forum

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/you-failed-as-delta-fa-chiarman-nigerians-blast-okocha-for-npfl-comments-2023090311305810537

Okocha played in the Nigerian League with Enugu Rangers in 1990.

Nigerians have blasted former Super Eagles captain Austin 'Jay Jay' Okocha over his comments on the Nigerian League.

The African star revealed on Friday in Nairobi, Kenya during English Premier League Trophy Tour that he would rather watch European football than a live Nigerian football league.

Okocha played in the Nigerian League with Enugu Rangers in 1990.

Okocha's statement
The former PSG and Bolton Wanderers’ midfielder added that Nigeria need to upgrade its organization standard to attract quality talents and more sponsors for the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) and other Leagues in the country.

Nigerians blasts Okocha
NPFL expert, Tobi Adepoju revealed how the 1994 African Cup of Nations AFCON winner was forced to resign as Delta State FA chairman after he was impeached.

Tobi Adepoju on his Twitter (X) said, "Okocha was supported by Amaju Pinnick & he was elected as Delta State Football Association Chairman which automatically made him a Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Congress Member.

"He ruined Delta State FA & he was judged to be the most incompetent Delta FA Boss in history. He was forced to resign before the Delta FA Congress impeached him, they were pissed and disappointed.

"When football fans call for Ex-Players to lead football administration in the country, I laugh at it. Let's leave them to honour invitations from politicians and play novelty matches."

Abidoun Ibrahim added, "Someone that should be an ambassador for the league is saying this. To say he was once the FA chairman in Delta state. So sad."

Meanwhile, the NPFL will kick off on Saturday 9th with Shooting Stars hosting Plateau United at the Lekan Salami Stadium in Ibadan.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/you-failed-as-delta-fa-chiarman-nigerians-blast-okocha-for-npfl-comments-2023090311305810537

Nigeria Super Eagles icon Austine Jay Jay Okocha has been reminded of his time as an administrator after his comments on the NPFL in Kenya.

Nigerian football legend Austin Jay Jay Okocha has come under the storm following comments he made about the Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL.

According to Pulse Sports, Jay Jay Okocha has revealed that he will not watch the NPFL if there is a Premier League match.

The 50-year-old made the statement during a Premier League trophy tour in Kenya recently.

Okocha on the NPFL
Speaking to Kenya-based Capital Sports, the former midfield maestro was honest and brutal with his assessment of the NPFL.

According to him, the Nigeria domestic league is not well-packaged enough to attract followers like him to ditch European leagues.

“I don’t think I’d watch the Nigerian league if there is a Premier League match on the television, that is if I am being honest because the Premier League is more attractive,” Okocha stated.

Our people will fall in love with something that is attractive and well-packaged. I can take the example of South Africa, the locals there attend matches in the stadium because the league is attractive,” he added.

Journalist replies Okocha
The comments from Okocha have not gone down well with some NPFL enthusiasts who have taken to social media to respond.

Led by Photojournalist Tobi Adepoju, the former Bolton Wanderers skipper has been criticised for his comments.

In a long-form reply posted on the social media platform, X.com, formerly Twitter, Adepoju went down memory lane to remind Okocha of his in-famous time as Chairman of the Delta State Football Association.

“Okocha was supported by Amaju Pinnick & he was elected as Delta State Football Association Chairman which automatically made him a Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Congress Member,” Adepoju posted.


“He ruined Delta State FA & he was judged to be the most incompetent Delta FA Boss in history. He was forced to resign before the Delta FA Congress impeached him, they were pissed and disappointed.


When football fans call for Ex-Players to lead football administration in the country, I laugh at it. Let's leave them to honour invitations from politicians and play novelty matches.”

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria


https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/jay-jay-okocha-npfl-expert-blasts-super-eagles-legend-after-comments-nigerian-league-2023090311255925336

The African star revealed this on Friday in Nairobi, Kenya during English Premier League Trophy Tour.

Ex-Super Eagles captain Austin 'Jay Jay' Okocha has admitted that because of the professionalism, presentation, and quality, he would rather watch European football than a live Nigerian football league.

The African star revealed this on Friday in Nairobi, Kenya, during the English Premier League Trophy Tour.

The former PSG and Bolton Wanderers’ midfielder added that Nigeria need to upgrade its organization standard to attract quality talents and more sponsors for the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) and other Leagues in the country.

Okocha, was part of the Nigeria side that won the African Cup of Nations AFCON title in 1994, cited South Africa's Premier Soccer League, PSL, and leagues in North Africa as proof that African countries can evolve into more professional and appealing leagues.

He said, “I don’t think I’d watch the Nigerian league if there is a Premier League match on the television, that is if I am being honest, because the Premier League is more attractive.

“We need to go back to the drawing board and give ourselves time and put something together that will make our leagues attractive," he told Kenyan-based, Capital Sports


“Our people will fall in love with something that is attractive and well-packaged. I can take the example of South Africa, the locals there attend matches in the stadium because the league is attractive.

“There are also the North African countries where the locals go out and watch the matches. I think sometimes we need to copy the leagues abroad, forget our ego and humble ourselves and start from scratch again.

“We need a long-term plan to organize our leagues and make them attractive, it is not rocket science."

NPFL will kick off on Saturday 9th with Shooting Stars hosting Plateau United at the Lekan Salami Stadium in Ibadan.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria


https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/i-dont-think-id-watch-the-nigerian-league-ex-super-eagles-captain-jay-jay-okocha-2023090211582760877

As Dani Alves awaits his fate in a sexual assault case, the Brazilian footballer who is currently in jail reportedly sent a romantic message to his estranged wife who weeks ago, declared her intentions to divorce the former Barcelona defender.

Dani Alves remains in prison and is currently awaiting trial over allegations that he raped a 23-year-old woman at the Sutton nightclub in Barcelona in late December 2022.

The Brazilian footballer has been in temporary detention since January 20.

Alves has also seen his appeals for his release on bail denied by the Barcelona court after giving a statement before the judge, who understood that there was a risk of flight and ordered his internment.

However, since Alves’ arrest his marriage with Joana Sanz has continued to make the headlines as the 29-year-old Tenerife model had publicly denied and also admitted her intention to divorce the former Barcelona, PSG, and Juventus defender.

Dani Alves reportedly pens love note to estranged wife Joana Sanz amid plans to divorce him

During Dani Alves’ first days, he had the unconditional support of Joana Sanz, but as weeks turned to months, the model was seemingly distancing herself from the footballer until she publicly confirmed that she was going to divorce the Brazilian.

Despite initially denying the reports, Sanz later revealed through her social networks that she had begun the process to divorce her imprisoned husband, although, Alves was reportedly refusing to sign the papers.

However Dani Alves has returned to write a love letter for Joana and this was shared on her Instagram profile along with a few words from popular Carribean singer Rauw Alejandro, specifically the song that the Puerto Rican recently dedicated to Spanish popstar Rosalía after their breakup.

Though Joana Sanz did not reveals that the letter was from Alves, but there have already been comparisons in Brazil between the latest letter and the letter that the player wrote last March and with the text that Joana shared to announce their separation and there is no doubt that it is written by the former player of Seville and Barcelona, among others.

As translated by AS Tikitakas, the letter reads:

"I learned in all this madness that two is better than one... When one falls the other lifts him, when he is cold the other warms him. That's us.

"Thank you for your endurance, thank you for your resilience, thank you for not giving up on me. I always said that you were what I always dreamed of, but now I say that you are more than I could dream of," the text continues.

"I know you don't like solitude and I know how hard it is for you all that, but everything will pass and we will become stronger together. It's amazing that I still have when I go to see you, it's amazing that I feel so much love for you after so long... But even more incredible is knowing that you are there to reciprocate all that. Whatever, wherever, whatever, but always with you. I love you forever," concludes Dani Alves' letter.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria


https://www.pulsesports.ng/sports-gist/story/dani-alves-joana-sanz-letter-from-prison-2023090208254138259

Luis Rubiales, president of the Spanish Football Association, has said that attempts to suspend him have been made against him and that he is actually the victim of a political and media decapitation.

After Spain's 1-0 victory in the Women's World Cup final, Rubiales caused controversy when he kissed Hermoso on the mouth as she stood to receive her medal.

According to reports, FIFA imposed a 90-day suspension on Rubiales after learning and reviewing the incident.

After several days of being silent about the kissing scandal, the Spanish FA president has finally opened up.

Luis Rubiales comment
Rubiales has spoken up about the kissing incident after learning that a case has been opened regarding the incident in Spain.

According to Daily Mail, Rubiales immediately responded by saying, “I am the victim of an unprecedented political and media lynching.

“I have been deliberately sidelined but I have presented all the relevant images that show the facts. That evidence will ignore opinions and clear my name.”

He further explained that he was "advancing the feminist cause" and that "genuine victims of aggression" would benefit from his case.

According to Marca, as reported by Daily Mail, he said “What I did is unjustifiable. What I'm trying to expose is the context. I was overwhelmed, I didn't know how to live up to it and I couldn't control my emotions.

“When you later reflect and see yourself on cameras... I don't recognize myself. Inside the forest one sees nothing but branches and when one separates from the forest one sees the true situation.'

“Almost all of us RFEF workers went thinking that we were going to see the dismissal of a president and we found something completely different. It was not easy to digest, it was a situation that overwhelmed me.”

Key RFEF figures initially backed Rubiales and the president has declared that he wouldn't be stepping down from his position.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/kiss-gate-spanish-fa-president-luis-rubiales-breaks-silence-on-kissing-scandal-2023090207525738453

Al Nassr star Cristiano Ronaldo has been hit with a community note on twitter after running propaganda for a herbal drink

Portuguese legend Cristiano Ronaldo was the victim of the infamous community notes on X formerly known as Twitter, after the Al Nassr forward was called out for advertising a suspicious herbal drink with his account.

Ronaldo hit with a community note

The former Real Madrid and Juventus forward is one of the most followed personalities on social media, and earns a fortune with advertising engagements on his accounts, however, one of his recent clients has put him in trouble with X users after he got lambasted for his advertisement.

The Manchester United icon was hit with a correction on his post, with the community calling out his choice to advertise the herbal drink, saying, “Herbalife operates a multilevel marketing scheme, and its products have been linked to serious negative health effects.”

Despite the community note, Ronaldo has not deleted or amended the post, leaving it up for the general public to keep interacting with.

Ronaldo wins Player of the Month award

Ronaldo is the latest among popular football personalities to get “community noted” in recent days, with transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano also falling prey to X’s new method of fact-checking tweets.

The Al Nassr forward is unlikely to pay too much attention to the ongoing drama surrounding his post, after winning the Saudi Pro League Player of the Month for August.

Ronaldo scored five goals and provided two assists during August in the Saudi Pro League and was the deserving winner of the first monthly award of the season.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria


https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/cristiano-ronaldo-called-out-on-twitter-for-hawking-herbal-drink-2023090116435162335

Brazilian football legend Ronaldinho appeared before a congressional commission this Thursday over a fraud investigation.

Brazilian footballing legend Ronaldinho Gaucho is once again in the cross hairs of the law over a cryptocurrency scam.

Ronaldinho appeared before a congressional commission investigating the fraud with financial pyramids that his name was improperly used by two partners accused of ‘Yahoo Yahoo’ and with whom he only had a contract to promote a watch brand.

The 43-year-old former PSG, Barcelona and AC Milan star had reportedly failed to attend on the two previous occasions in which he was summoned to testify by the parliamentary commission.

Ronaldinho, who was threatened with being forcibly taken away by the police, denied all the accusations against him in more than two hours of interrogation this Thursday.

Ronaldinho alleges his name was wrongly used in fraud case

According to a report from AS Tikitakas, the commission of the Chamber of Deputies that investigates fraud with financial pyramids decided to summon the former Ballon d’Or winner for questioning because his name and image were used by the owners of the company “18K Ronaldinho” to attract resources from investors to whom they promised enormous interests.

The owners of the said company are said to have convinced investors with the purchase of cryptocurrencies, most of whom they ended up scamming.

The former Brazil international told legislators that he signed a contract with the owners of the company "18K Ronaldinho" exclusively to promote a watch brand.

Ronaldinho added that the contract was negotiated by his brother and representative, Roberto de Assis Moreira , and that he was only twice with one of the partners of that company when he was filming a commercial to promote the watches.

The Brazilian legend reportedly affirmed that he never authorized the said company to use his name or his image to promote financial businesses or to offer cryptocurrencies, and that he only found out that the partners had been using both improperly when the Prosecutor's Office opened an investigation into the scam. .

“They used my name without authorization to create another company . I was even heard by the Prosecutor's Office and the Police as a witness for the investigations into the fraud.

"I was also a victim . I never participated in that company and I never authorized the use of my name or my image,” he was quoted to have said as per the aforementioned outlet.

Ronaldinho reportedly took no action when he learned his name had been used in a Cryptocurrency scam

According to the report via AS Tikitakas, when Ronaldinho was questioned by the parliamentary commission's instructor, deputy Ricardo Silva, about what he did when he learned that his name had been used to promote the sale of cryptocurrencies, the former PSG attacker admitted that he did not report it to the Police or file any lawsuit against his partners.

The report adds that the former footballer clarified that, just as they manage his businesses and his finances, his brother and his lawyers were the ones in charge of responding to the complaints.

However, despite his denials, Ronaldinho Gaúcho appears as a defendant in a process opened by hundreds of investors who are asking for compensation of 300 million reais (about $61.5 million USD) for the losses they suffered for trusting in a financial product promoted with the image of the former soccer player.


Despite his alleged intention to clarify the accusations against him, the former Barcelona star refused to answer most of the legislators' questions, although, Ronaldinho is reportedly protected by a ruling in which Justice authorized him not to answer questions that could incriminate him.

In addition to having been threatened with being forcibly taken to Congress , the former footballers has reportedly been seized upon the order of the parliament.


Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/ronaldinho-scam-case-2023083118522320911

FIFA are reportedly pushing for Luis Rubiales to be banned from football for 15 years after his alleged sexual harassment.

FIFA will reportedly push for disgraced Spanish FA president Luis Rubiales to be banned from all football for 15 years after the Spanish federation withdrew their support for him.

Rubiales could be banned for up to 15 years
Rubiales was asked to resign after the Spanish FA made a U-Turn, saying his ‘unacceptable’ behaviour had caused ‘grave harm to the image of Spanish football. The behaviour in question is the alleged kiss between Rubiales and Jenni Hermoso.

According to the Daily Mail, FIFA are pushing for a ban for Rubiales of up to 15 years which is the maximum permitted by their statutes.

In the wake of Spain's World Cup victory over England, Rubiales was given a 90-day interim suspension by FIFA but retained the backing of the Spanish Football Association.

Regardless of the outcome, FIFA are likely to impose a lengthy ban on Rubiales.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria


https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/luis-rubiales-disgraced-spanish-fa-president-facing-15-year-ban-from-football-for-jenni-hermoso-kiss-2023082910272258040

FIFA have opened disciplinary proceedings against Luis Rubiales for his shocking behaviour at Sunday's Women's World Cup final.

Rubiales forcefully kissed Spain's Jennifer Hermoso at the medal presentation, after the Women's World Cup final.

He will now be investigated by FIFA for violations of the fair play and offensive behavior provisions of article 13 in its disciplinary code

FIFA to inestigate Rubiales
"Fifa reiterates its unwavering commitment to respecting the integrity of all individuals and strongly condemns any behaviour to the contrary," it said in a statement.

In accordance with the disciplinary code, officials must adhere to the principles of fair play, loyalty, and integrity.

The article further states that Anyone who violates basic conduct rules, insults a natural or legal person in any way, especially through offensive gestures, signs, or language, or behaves in a manner that tarnishes the sport of football and Fifa, can face disciplinary measures.

Despite Rubiales' apology on Monday, Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said it wasn't enough, and second deputy prime minister Yolanda Diaz joined those calling for his resignation.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/luis-rubiales-fifa-to-investigate-spanish-fa-president-over-world-cup-final-kiss-2023082414061458735

Former Arsenal midfielder Emmanuel Petit slams Caicedo and Lavia for rejecting Liverpool for Chelsea.

Retired footballer Emmanuel Petit has criticised the decision of Romeo Lavia and Moises Caicedo to join Chelsea over Liverpool, claiming that a transfer to the Reds was wiser in a sporting sense.

Petit played a similar position to the duo in his playing days and was a Chelsea player from 2001-2004.

What happened
Jurgen Klopp's side lost out on two of their key transfer targets, Caicedo and Lavia, in their bid to sign a defensive midfielder following the departure of Jordan Henderson and Fabinho to the Saudi Professional League.

The Blues themselves were keen on bringing in a player in the position and were successful in signing the duo, brushing off interest from the Merseysiders.

What Petit said
The former Arsenal midfielder believes that Liverpool have a better sporting project than Chelsea and hinted that a superior financial offer was why the duo opted for the move to West London.

He went on to state that if the decision had been his, he would have joined Liverpool and that there is less pressure to deal with at Anfield.

"Caicedo signed for Chelsea when he was linked with Liverpool, just like Romeo Lavia. I'm not going to say anything stupid, but we all know why they went to Chelsea,” He said, per Liverpool Echo.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/if-i-am-caicedo-or-lavia-im-going-to-liverpool-chelsea-legend-blasts-duo-2023082318410252703

Spanish World Cup Winning forward, Jenni Hermoso has decided to pursue action against Luis Rubiales after she was forcefully kissed.

Spain football chief, Rubiales, triggered widespread outrage after appearing to grab Hermoso by the head and kissing her on the lips.

Hermoso later revealed she did not like the kiss and is now set to pursue legal action.

Hermoso to take legal action against Rubiales
There have been calls for Rubiales, 46, to be removed from his position as head of the RFEF.

The Spanish Women’s League, Liga F, has already filed a complaint with the National Sports Council, CSD, calling for his immediate removal.

In a statement on Wednesday evening via FUTPRO, a union for female footballers in Spain, Jenni confirmed she would be pursuing action against Rubiales.

Hermoso’s statement was brief and read, “My FUTPRO union, in coordination with my TMJ agency, are taking charge of defending my interests and being the interlocutors on this matter.”

FUTPRO described the behavior of Rubiales as "acts that should never go unpunished" and said it would work to "sanction and adopt measures to protect the players against actions we believe are unacceptable."

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/jenni-hermoso-to-take-legal-action-against-rubiales-after-forced-kiss-2023082406414097022

According to FIFA, the Super Falcons of Nigeria finished 10th out of 32 teams at the 2023 Women's World Cup.

The 2023 Women's World Cup tournament came to an end on Sunday, August 20, 2023.

Spain recorded a 1-0 victory against the Lionesses of England in the final to lift their first title.


It was a history-making moment for Spain, as they became the second country to win the Men's and Women's World Cups.

FIFA ranks Super Falcons 10th at Women's World Cup
World Football governing body FIFA, after the conclusion of the tournament, has now ranked the teams.

The teams are ranked based on their performance at the tournament, but there is a twist.

Teams that were eliminated at the same stage are ranked based on the way they were knocked out.

The Super Falcons, according to the list provided by Fox Soccer, are ranked in 10th place.

It is a stunning accomplishment, as they are behind the United States of America (USA) and the highest among the African participants.

The Super Falcons played four games at the World Cup, starting off with a goalless draw against Olympic Champions Canada.

They then shocked tournament co-hosts Australia 3-2 in their second game before another goalless draw against the Republic of Ireland.

In the round of 16, the Super Falcons proved to be the toughest opponent for the Lionesses on their way to the final.

They stifled the reigning European champions to a goalless affair after 120 minutes of football, only to lose on penalties.

The Super Falcons and the USA both crashed out in the round of 16, but the former champions are ranked ahead of Nigeria based on their goal difference and missed just one of their spot kicks in the loss to Sweden.

The top 10 teams in the World Cup include Spain at one, England at two, Sweden at three, and Australia at four.

To complete the list of the best teams, Japan is fifth, France is sixth, the Netherlands is seventh, and Colombia is eighth.

The USA are ninth, and the Super Falcons of Nigeria complete the top 10.

The Super Falcons are the highest-ranked team from Africa in the tournament.

Morocco are ranked 12th, reigning African champion South Africa are 16th, and Zambia are 25th.

Some members of the Super Falcons have returned to the country, while others, such as Michelle Alozie and Uchenna Kanu, have returned to their respective clubs.


Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/super-falcons-fifa-ranks-nigeria-10th-best-team-at-2023-womens-world-cup-2023082106021969759

Nigerians have reacted to the recent comment made by the Athletics Integrity Unit about Tobi Amusan being cleared of doping charges.

Tobi Amusan was cleared of doping charges yesterday after finding out that she did not commit an Anti-Doping Rule Violation according to the Disciplinary Tribunal.

The Athletics Integrity Unit were disappointed by the decision made by the Disciplinary Tribunal and insisted that the decision will be reviewed.

A statement was released by the AIU Head Brett Clothier saying, “Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) is disappointed by this decision and will review the reasoning in detail before deciding whether to exercise its right of appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) within the applicable deadline.”

Nigerians have taken to social media about the comment and have asked the AIU to let Tobi Amusan breathe.

Nigerians social media reaction
Several comments were made under the tweet shared on Twitter by the Athletics Integrity Unit yesterday.

The Athletics Integrity Unit have said that they will review the decision made by the Disciplinary Tribunal after they cleared Tobi of her doping charges.

A popular Twitter personality and media personal Rinu Oduala said, “Let her breathe, please. If the tribunal said she hasn’t committed a violation. What’s Brett Clothier’s own?”

Nigerians have reacted on social media and defended Tobi Amusan saying that Brett Clothier and AIU should let her be.

Another Nigerian replied to Rinu, “This is how they witch hunt black Athletes. They did the same with a black tennis player, @MikaelYmer over this same whereabouts rule.

“The disciplinary Committee absolved him but this AIU appealed and got him suspended for 18 months. The Brett Clothier fellow is clearly a racist.

Tobi Amusan will now participate in the upcoming Athletic tournament in Budapest after her provisional suspension was lifted with immediate effect.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/athletics/story/please-let-her-breathe-nigerians-tell-athletics-unit-to-stop-persecuting-tobi-amusan-2023081813045198833

The trophy tour is slated for August 29 and 30 in Lagos and Abuja.

Nigeria has been selected as one of the three African nations for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup trophy tour, which will take place on August 29 and 30, before this year's competition in India.

The trophy will be received by the board of the Nigeria Cricket Federation (NCF) before being handed to the newly appointed Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Enoh in Abuja on Tuesday, August 29.

The trophy will be received by Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu and will also be on public display at the Tafawa Balewa Cricket Oval on Wednesday, August 30.

ICC Men’s T20 World Cup trophy tour in Nigeria is a huge win - NCF
NCF president, Uyi Akpata, claimed that the ICC Men's T20 World Cup trophy's second visit to the nation is evidence of Nigerian cricket's advancements over the previous five years.

He said, “Nigeria will be a major stop for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Trophy that is presently on tour of 18 countries globally, and that is major for us. Being the second successive time in Nigeria is a huge win for our developmental effort.

“I believe the back-to-back trophy tour of Nigeria, first in 2019 and now in 2023, shows how Nigeria, as an emerging cricket development hotbed, is key for the continent. And this is an appreciation to those who have, and are still sacrificing to see the game attain an enviable height in the country."

Nigeria qualified for its first World Cup in 2019 by winning four international development prizes between 2019 and 2023.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria


https://www.pulsesports.ng/cricket/story/nigeria-to-host-icc-mens-t20-world-cup-trophy-2023081813125227125

Emmanuel Adebayor was in Nigeria to celebrate Nigeria Super Eagles legend Austin Jay Jay Okocha at 50.

Former Arsenal and Manchester City striker Emmanuel Adebayor has revealed that he is indeed a son of the soil from Nigeria.

Adebayor said this during a novelty match put together by BetKing to celebrate Nigerian football legend Austin Jay Jay Okocha.

Adebayor at BetKing match for Okocha
The Togolese superstar was one of the special guests at the event organised by BetKing in honour of their ambassador, Okocha, on the occasion of his 50th birthday.

With former Nigeria Super Eagles skipper Okocha celebrating his 50th birthday last Monday, BetKing hosted his former Super Eagles teammates and colleagues from the continent.

Adebayor led the African contigent alongside Ghana’s Asamoah Gyang to the match held at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan Stadium, last Sunday.

The former Manchester City forward and Asamoah were some of the players who put on a show in the well-attended event which left Okocha overwhelmed.

In the end, Okocha’s Dynamo, with Adebayor and Gyang, lifted the title following a 8-5 win over Nigeria’s Dribbler which included some of his former colleagues in the Super Eagles led by Emmanuel Amokachi,Taribo West, Joseph Yobo, and Ifeanyi Udeze amongst others.

On his Nigerian roots
After the game which saw him dazzle alongside Jay Jay, Adebayor spoke to the media where he revealed his Nigerian roots.

According to a video on social media, while he was born and raised in Togo, he is a ‘pure’ Yoruba boy and Nigerian.

“My father’s name is Adeyi Adebayo and my mother’s name is Alice Semiola Adekani,” he stated.

“So, i am a pure Yoruba man. I was just born in Togo, grew up in Togo and being raised by Nigerian parents.”

“I am fully from Nigeria,” he added.

The former Arsenal, Real Madrid, and Manchester City forward enjoyed an illustrious career before he announced his retirement from football at the age of 39 earlier this year.

He was capped 88 times for Togo, scored 2 times, and helped his country reach its first and only FIFA World Cup in 2006.


Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/ex-arsenal-star-adebayor-declares-after-honouring-jay-jay-okocha-2023081714213981306

The top three candidates for the 2022–23 UEFA Men's Player of the Year award have been revealed by UEFA with Vinicius Jr. missing from the list.


The players on the original shortlist were chosen by the UEFA technical study group based on how well they performed for their clubs and national teams in the 2022–23 season.

The list, which consists of the best players for the 2022/2023 season, was cut down to three names, with two different names making the list.

World Cup winner Lionel Messi, Premier League top scorer Erling Haaland and treble winner Kelvin De Bruyne are the three nominees for the award.

Vinicus Jr., who had a remarkable season with Real Madrid was left out of the list for the top three players released by UEFA.

Vinicius, snub by UEFA
The UEFA shortlist for the 2022–2023 season, which includes the names of the top three players in Europe was released today, with Vinicius not making the list.

The Brazilian, who had an exceptional campaign, made 33 appearances, scoring 10 goals and providing 10 assists for Real Madrid in LaLiga.

He also had a good performance in the Champions League, scoring seven goals and providing five assists in 12 games.

Haaland on the other hand, made 35 Premier League appearances, scored 36 goals and provided eight assists for Man City. He also clinched the top scorer award in the Champions League with 12 goals.

De Bruyne who was influential in Man City's treble win made 32 appearances, scored seven goals and provided 18 assists. He also scored two goals and made seven assists in the Champions League.

Lionel Messi also had a spectacular season, helping Argentina lift the World Cup trophy by scoring seven goals and providing three assists in the tournament.

The Argentine also made 32 appearances, scoring 16 goals and providing 16 assists for PSG in Ligue 1, including four goals and four assists in the Champions League.

Vinicius Junior had an impressive stat last season but despite his performance, compared to the top three nominees, UEFA does not see the Brazilian as a worthy candidate for the award.

UEFA top three nominees

In a statement released by UEFA on Twitter, “NOMINEES of the UEFA Men's Player of the Year 2022/23 are Kevin De Bruyne, Erling Haaland and Lionel Messi.

“All #UEFAawards winners will be announced at the #UCLdraw on 31 August.”

According to the official website of UEFA, “For the men’s player award, an initial shortlist of players was selected by the UEFA technical study group based on their performance during the 2022/23 season at both club and national team level.

“The top three nominees were then voted for by a jury composed of the coaches of the clubs which played in the group stages of the 2022/23 UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa League and UEFA Europa Conference League, together with the coaches of the men’s senior national teams of UEFA’s member associations.

“A group of journalists selected by the European Sports Media (ESM) were also part of the jury.

“Coaches and journalists were asked to select their top three players from the shortlist by allocating them five points, three points and one point respectively.

“The final result was based on the total number of votes cast by the coaches and journalists. The coaches were not allowed to vote for players from their own team.”

List of the top three players in alphabetical order:

Kevin DE BRUYNE (Belgium – Manchester City FC)
Erling HAALAND (Norway – Manchester City FC)
Lionel MESSI (Argentina – Paris Saint-Germain, now at Inter Miami CF)
The winner of the award will be revealed at the 2023–24 UEFA Champions League group stage draw event, which will be held on Thursday, August 31, at the Grimaldi Forum in Monaco.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/controversy-as-uefa-snubs-vinicius-for-messi-haaland-and-de-bruyne-for-mens-player-of-the-year-award-2023081713525138875

Neymar joins the list of highest-paid players worldwide after agreeing to a mega contract with Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal.

The Brazilian recently completed his move to Al-Hilal after agreeing to a £69m offer rising to £86m with PSG.

The former PSG star signed a deal until 2025 and will earn a £138 million-a-YEAR salary at his new club.

Despite entering the list of highest earners in the world, Neymar’s salary can still not be compared to Cristiano Ronaldo’s salary.

However, we take a look at how much Ronaldo and Neymar earn and give a breakdown of their salary.

Stephen Oladehinde • 11:47 - 16.08.2023
Neymar joins the list of highest-paid players worldwide after agreeing to a mega contract with Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal.
The Brazilian recently completed his move to Al-Hilal after agreeing to a £69m offer rising to £86m with PSG.

Below Ronaldo, above Kante, Neymar set to join top-5 highest paid Saudi League players
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Below Ronaldo, above Kante, Neymar set to join top-5 highest paid Saudi League players
The former PSG star signed a deal until 2025 and will earn a £138 million-a-YEAR salary at his new club.

Despite entering the list of highest earners in the world, Neymar’s salary can still not be compared to Cristiano Ronaldo’s salary.

However, we take a look at how much Ronaldo and Neymar earn and give a breakdown of their salary.

Neymar joins Al-Hilal || Photo Credit - @Al Hilal on Twitter
Neymar joins Al-Hilal || Photo Credit - @Al Hilal on Twitter
Salary breakdown of Ronaldo and Neymar
Neymar will receive £276 million after his two-year stint in the Middle East, according to L'Equipe, as reported by Talks Sport.

The breakdown of the former Barcelona and PSG attacker is £138 million a year, £11.5 million per month, £2.65 million per week, £378k per day, £15.7k per hour and £262 every minute.

However, his salary is still far below the pay of Cristiano Ronaldo who signed for Al Nassr during the winter transfer window

The five-time Ballon d'Or winner earns £177 million annually, the biggest in a sports contract ever.

Ronaldo’s salary breakdown is £177 million yearly, £14.75 million monthly, £3.4 million weekly, £485k daily, £20k every hour and £337 every minute.

Neymar’s salary in his new club is also up there with the rest of the top earners but it still can't be compared to the Portuguese wages.

With the recent signings made by Al-Hilal including Neymar the Saudi Arabian side will be looking to win the league title.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria


https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/explained-how-neymars-huge-al-hilal-salary-compares-to-that-of-ronaldo-2023081610473186925

Sylvester will serve as the first team assistant coach of Fleetwood United FC in the second level of football in Dubai.

Ayere Sylvester, a Nigerian coach, has agreed to a one-year contract with Fleetwood United Football Club in Dubai as his first professional coaching contract.

While continuing to work with United FC U-15, Sylvester will lead the U-23 Pathway to Professional football squad and serve as the first-team assistant coach of Fleetwood United FC in the second level of football in Dubai.

In his first season at the club, he served as head coach of United FC U-14 team in Dubai, guiding them to the semi-finals of the DOFA Cup, the Super Four Semi-Final of the DOFA League, and the United Summer League.

Sylvester coaching career
From his early days with Freiburgerweg FA in Nigeria to his time with Oasis Ladies FC and Ranieri Ladies FC, Sylvester has come a long way as a coach.

Sylvester has accomplished many significant milestones along the way, including leading Rainieri Ladies FC to the Social Liga final, the first Lagos Championship title for Oasis Ladies, and an unbeaten streak with Freiburgerweg FA throughout his two years with the academy team from 2019 to 2021.

Coach Sylvester also worked as the Nationwide League One's Gbagada FC's Head of Opposition Analysis and, on a two-year contract, as an ambassador for major Nigerian sportswear company Winon Sports.

The highly regarded coach, who is credited with developing the "Proactive Protagonist" style of play, obtained his FA Level 3 Uefa B coaching license through the England FA in March 2023.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/ayere-sylvester-nigerian-coach-sign-first-professional-contract-in-dubai-2023081605572756275

Former Manchester United striker Odion Ighalo signs for his third consecutive Saudi Professional League club.
Nigerian striker Odion Ighalo has completed his signing for Saudi Arabian club Al-Wehda on a free transfer.

The 34-year-old forward had an incredible season with Al-Hilal in the Saudi Professional League last season, making the team of the season; however, he did not continue beyond that season, leaving him without a club.

The former Manchester United striker has since been without a club, but he has now put pen to paper with another Gulf club and will turn up for Al-Wehda next season.

Ighalo's Saudi League journey
The former Granada striker with a different team is set for his third stint at a Saudi Arabian club.

He first played in the league with Al-Shabab, and after an impressive goal-scoring campaign, he secured a move to one of the biggest clubs in the land, Al-Hilal.

Last season with Hilal, the striker scored 21 goals in all competitions, leading the Blue Waves to the finals of the AFC Champions League and Club World Cup.

He will now continue his exploits in the league, having the chance to extend his current over 50 goals tally.

Al-Wehda announce Ighalo with fun video
The striker's new club turned on the creative juices in their unveiling of one of the best strikers in Saudi League history.

The announcement video showed two kids playing FIFA on a console and attempting to pick an SPL team. One of the players picked Al-Wehda, and Ighalo popped up as a player for the Knights of Mecca.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/ighalo-continues-to-chase-saudi-bag-signs-for-new-club-2023081522454766461#:~:text=Former%20Manchester%20United%20striker%20Odion,Wehda%20on%20a%20free%20transfer.

Neymar Jr has reportedly agreed to join Al-Hilal from PSG, and will expectedly become one of the highest earning players in the league, but how high?

According to reports from multiple sources, Brazilian superstar Neymar is set to join Saudi Professional League side Al-Hilal on a permanent transfer from Paris Saint-Germain.

The 31-year-old joined the French side in the summer of 2017 and was heralded as the star of a dominant PSG in European competitions.

Although he did manage to reach the Champions League semi-final and final with the Parisians, injuries blighted his career at the club, and he never managed to reach the lofty heights his talents promised.

The French champions are seemingly going in a new direction, and according to reports, this did not include Neymar; hence, they put him on the transfer list. Al-Hilal are said to have matched PSG's ask, and the player will now ply his trade in the Saudi Professional League.

How much will Neymar earn in Saudi Arabia
The Saudi League have gained fame this year for the lucrative contracts they hand out to players, and a player of Neymar's talent is not left behind.

According to reports, he has agreed to a two-year deal that will reportedly pay him £1.7 million weekly, making an annual salary of £86.4 million, according to InsideSport. This immediately makes him a top-five earner in the Saudi Professional League.

This is a significant increase from his reported over £30 million salary, and according to reports, his Saudi deal includes a number of incentives.

Top 5 earners in Saudi Professional League
Al-Nassr star Cristiano Ronaldo remains the top earner in the league despite the influx of highly rated players into the league.

Neymar only comes in third, behind another ex-Real Madrid star Karim Benzema. N'golo Kante and Riyad Mahrez make up the rest of the top

List of top 5 earners in the Saudi Pro League per InsideSport (approximated)

Player Annual Wage
Cristiano Ronaldo £173 million
Karim Benzema £172 million
Neymar jr £86.4 million
N'golo Kante £86.2 million
Riyad Mahrez £45 million'

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/below-ronaldo-above-kante-neymar-set-to-join-top-5-highest-paid-saudi-league-players-2023081420581172917

For the first time in history, the Super Falcons went through the group stage unbeaten and kept three clean sheets out of four games.

On Monday, three members of Nigeria's senior women's national team were guests of First Lady Oluremi Tinubu in the Aso Villa after other players failed to show up.

Goalkeeper Tochukwu Oluehi, midfield maestro Christy Ucheibe, and captain Onome Ebi were the players in attendance as the first lady welcomed the valiant Super Falcons.

Five members of the team’s backroom and technical staffs also attended the meeting with the First Lady.

They were joined by three officials of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) comprising of President, Alhaji Musa Gusau, First Vice President, Felix Anyasi Agwu, and the General Secretary, Dr Mohammed Sanusi

The First Lady organized the event to recognize the players' incredible skill, artistry, and tenacity throughout the competition in Australia, where they advanced to the Round of 16.

Super Falcons at the World Cup
The Super Falcons were eliminated from the FIFA Women's World Cup co-hosted by Australia and New Zealand after losing to the Lioness of England on penalties.

For the first time in history, the Super Falcons went through the group stage unbeaten and kept three clean sheets out of four games.

Football fans respect and admire the team for their valiant performance.

Recall that the First Lady hosted D'tigress, the country's women's basketball team last week after wining the AFRO Women's basketball championship for fourth consecutive time.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/super-falcons-some-star-players-absent-as-first-lady-hosts-just-returning-heroines-2023081413450848295

Chelsea have announced the signing of Moises Caicedo from Brighton after beating off competition from Liverpool

After fighting off a late challenge from Liverpool, Chelsea have finally landed the signing of Ecuadorian midfielder Moises Caicedo from Brighton.

Chelsea seal Caicedo signing

The Blues broke the British transfer record for a second time, to bring Caicedo to Stamford Bridge, eclipsing the £106 million they paid Benfica for the Argentine with a £115 million bid to convince Brighton to sell their Ecuadorian midfielder.


Caicedo joins the Blues on an eight-year contract, with an option for an additional year after rejecting a move to Liverpool this summer despite the Reds having an agreement with Brighton.

The move brings an end to the transfer Saga involving Caicedo, which has seen him as a target for Chelsea, Liverpool, and Arsenal since he made his intention to leave the Seagulls open in January 2023.

Caicedo finally gets big move
Caicedo joined the Seagulls in 2021 from Independiente in Ecuador for €5 million before going on loan to Beerschot V.A. in his first season with Brighton.

He later joined the first team at the start of the 2022/2023 season and his performances in the first half of the season made him a target for many Premier League clubs in the January transfer window when the midfielder dramatically tweeted about wanting to earn more money with a big move.

His dream of moving to a bigger club has finally come to pass after Chelsea beat off competition from Liverpool this summer to land the 21-year-old midfielder.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria


https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/official-chelsea-announce-caicedo-signing-with-brilliant-video-2023081411570021961

Nigeria's D'Tigers suffer defeat to Senegal in opening game of FIBA pre-Olympic qualifier
Nigeria's senior men's national team known as D'Tigers started their journey to qualify for the 2024 Olympic Games on Monday, August 14, 2023.

D'Tigers playing in front of a packed crowd at the Eko convention center started off hot.

However, the Senegalese were able to go on a run late closing the first quarter trailing 25-26.

In the second quarter, D'Tigers Head Coach Oga Odaudu rang the changes and Senegal went on a run.

D'Tigers were however able to reduce the deficit but were trailing 46-44 going to the halftime break.

In the third quarter it was end to end stuff as D'Tigers were able to claw their way back to take a 68-67 lead.

To start the fourth quarter, Senegal went on a run that changed the game to take a seven point advantage.

D'Tigers responded but were unable to get on level terms as Senegal who were on fire from three point range

Anosike and Metu made late three point shots to cut a double digit lead to three.

Senegal made clutch free throws to hold for a six point win. D'Tigers would now have to defeat Mali in their second group game to stand a chance of progressing to the knock out stages.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/basketball/story/dtigers-senegal-defeats-nigeria-93-87-in-fiba-pre-olympic-qualifier-2023081418580802687

Victor Osimhen is reportedly set to extend his contract at Napoli by one more year, increasing his current wages in return.

Victor Osimhen's contract renewal with Napoli is reportedly imminent and will be a lucrative deal that effectively makes him the highest-earning player for the Naples-based club.

The 24-year-old led Napoli to the Scudetto last season, winning the Capocannoniere for his efforts. This has made him the subject of interest from a number of clubs, including a reported lucrative bid from Saudi Arabia.

However, Napoli president Aurelio de Laurentiis has expressed his desire to keep the Super Eagles striker, warding off interest.

He is now set to offer him a bumper contract, which reportedly includes a release clause that opens the possibility of the former Wolfsburg striker getting his dream move to the Premier League.

Details of the contract
According to Italian transfer journalist Gianluca Di Marzio, Osimhen's contract, which expires in 2025, is close to renewal, extending the expiry date till 2026.

Per the report, the details and figures have been ironed out, with only the appropriate signatures remaining for the renewal to be confirmed.

He is expected to get a significant pay bump from his current wages. His new salary, according to the report, will be around €10 million, effectively making him the highest-paid player in the squad.

Also, there would be a release clause in the contract of €150 million; however, Italian teams will be unable to trigger this option until at least the summer of 2025.

The contract, as has been reported, allows I Partenopei to keep their best player from a title-winning campaign for at least one more season while giving the player a chance to get a well-earned career step up.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/osimhen-set-to-become-highest-paid-player-in-napoli-with-new-contract-2023081322213163726

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu leaves Lagos to watch favorite player Bukayo Saka

On Saturday, August 12, 2023, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu attended Arsenal's opening-day match at the Emirates Stadium.

At the Emirates Stadium, the Gunners defeated Nottingham Forest 2-1 to begin their 2023–24 Premier League season.

Before Super Eagles of Nigeria, striker Taiwo Awoniyi scored a late consolation goal at the Emirates Stadium, Eddie Nketiah and Bukayo Saka both scored goals for Arsenal in the first half.

Governor Sanwo-Olu watches Bukayo Saka play for Arsenal in London
According to a video that has gone viral on social media, the Governor was in attendance to watch the Gunners.

In June, Sanwo-Olu received Arsenal star Bukayo Saka when he visited Lagos.

He revealed that Saka was his favorite player while stating that he supports Arsenal in the Premier League.

The statement by Sanwo-Olu said, "Exciting day at the State House, Marina today as I had the pleasure of hosting my favorite @Arsenal player, Star Boy Bukayo Saka. @BukayoSaka87.

"I also enjoyed receiving my own signed Saka Jersey.

"As a proud #Gunner, I'm incredibly proud of their inspiring run in the Premier League with such a young team.

"Their determination has motivated many and shown us the power of youth. We're committed to bringing that same spirit to grassroots football in Lagos.

"Together, let's create opportunities for our talented young players.

"Thank you for visiting me Bukayo and I look forward to next season."

Sanwo-Olu has now gone to see Saka play live and was also able to see a Nigerian Awoniyi find the back of the net.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/sports-gist/story/sanwo-olu-to-arsenal-governor-leaves-lagos-to-watch-favorite-player-bukayo-saka-2023081318371026956

Liverpool secured a draw against Chelsea in their first Premier League game of the season.

New manager Mauricio Pochettino played his first Premier League match as a Chelsea manager against Klopp's side Liverpool.

Both teams could not get a win to begin their Premier League campaign as they played a 1-1 draw at full time.

Liverpool took the lead when Salah released a pass into the path of Luiz Dias who slotted home from close range.

Chelsea got the equaliser late on in the game after Liverpool failed to clear their lines and the ball fell into the path of Disasi who poked the ball into the back of the net.

As it happened
Chelsea's new manager Mauricio Pochettino played a 3-4-2-1 with Nicolas Jackson making his Premier League debut.


Jurgen Klopp on the other hand played a 4-3-3 with Mohamed Salah, Diogo Jota and Luis Díaz leading the attack for Liverpool.

Both teams started the game cautiously and made several mistakes in the first 10 minutes of the game.

However, it was Liverpool that got the first chance of the game from Salah who could only see his curl scrape the crossbar.

Shortly after, in the 18th minute, Liverpool worked the ball to Mohamed Salah on the right in three or four passes and then Salah weighed a fantastic pass for Luis Diaz to slide in and score at the far post to make it 1-0 to Liverpool.



Chelsea later had a penalty appeal when Ben Chilwell went down inside the box after a challenge by Ibrahima Konaté but it was waved away by the referee.

Liverpool doubled their lead when Mohamed Salah pulled away from the defence to run onto a pass and he kept his cool to slot beyond Robert Sanchez but was ruled out for offside after being checked by VAR.

Chelsea got the equaliser in the 37th minute. Liverpool failed to clear a corner as the ball was sent back in, another header away is only as far as Ben Chilwell, who nods on for Disasi to stretch out a boot and fire in the equaliser.

Three minutes later Chelsea took the lead when Ben Chilwell broke clear of the Liverpool defence and rounded Alisson to score but the goal was checked by VAR and was ruled out for offside.

The referee blew the half-time whistle with what was an interesting first half which ended 1-1.

The second half started and Chelsea took most of the possession and pushed Liverpool back to their half.

Both teams were unable to create many chances in the second half but Chelsea had the better chance.

Chelsea break through Mykhailo Mudryk in the 94th minute of injury time but the Liverpool defence just about manages to deal with the danger from the pacey substitute.

The referee blew the final whistle as the game ended in a 1-1 draw in their first Premier League game of the season.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/var-wins-as-chelsea-and-liverpool-game-end-in-a-draw-2023081317434745145

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

Super Eagles star Taiwo Awoniyi welcomes baby after goal for Nottingham Forest against Arsenal

Super Eagles of Nigeria star Taiwo Awoniyi has reason to celebrate

The 26-year-old Awoniyi added a new member to his family on Saturday, August 12, 2023.

Awoniyi and his wife Taiwo Jesudun welcomed a new baby, according to several posts on social media.

In viral photos on social media, Awoniyi wears a Nottingham Forest training kit as he holds his son.

Taiwo Awoniyi scores for Nottingham Forest
It was a remarkable day for Awoniyi as he featured for Nottingham Forest in their first Premier League game against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium.

Awoniyi started the game on the bench as the Gunners cruised to a comfortable 2-0 lead.

In the 71st minute, Awoniyi was introduced for Danilo to help spark Nottingham back into the game.

In the 82nd minute, Awoniyi pulled one back for Nottingham Forest from a ball by Anthony Elnaga for their first goal of the season.

Nottingham, however, was unable to get a late equalizer as they lost the game.

Awoniyi returns to action when Nottingham Forest play their first home game of the season against Sheffield United on Friday, August 18, 2023.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/sports-gist/story/taiwo-awoniyi-super-eagles-star-welcomes-baby-boy-after-goal-for-nottingham-forest-against-arsenal-2023081308582276287

Undefeated Super Falcons arrive in Lagos, Nigeria without Waldrum, set to be received by First Lady Tinubu.

After finishing in the second round of the FIFA Women's World Cup taking place in New Zealand and Australia, the Super Falcons of Nigeria have arrived in Lagos.

The Super Falcons landed in Lagos from Australia on Wednesday, August 10 at the Murtala Muhammed Airport.

The Super Falcons team was incomplete upon its arrival, as some other players left Australia for their respective bases.

Waldrum is not part of Super Falcons arrival in Nigeria
Super Falcons Head Coach Randy Waldrum, left the camp on Tuesday and flew back to his headquarters in the United States.

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has not yet commented on whether to renew the American manager's contract, which ended after the World Cup.

The American team's coach had a financial disagreement with the NFF prior to the competition.

Waldrum has remained loyal, expressing his delight in the team's accomplishments and a burning desire to lead them to the next Olympic Games.

Despite the group including strong women's footballing nations such as Canada and Australia, the Super Falcons did not lose a single game during the competition's group stage for the first time.

On Monday, they lost to the European champions England in a penalty shootout, but their effort was praised all around the world.

First Lady Tinubu to host Super Falcons
After witnessing the FIFA Women's World Cup round of 16 match, First Lady of Nigeria Senator Oluremi Tinubu CON, together with the wives of Vice President Hajia Nana Shettima and Senate President Mrs. Ekaette Akpabio, praised the Super Falcons and expressed their pride in them.

Remi Tinubu charged the Super Falcons to win the World Cup but was satisfactory in her analysis after their exit.

In a video by Busola Kukoyi, Remi Tinubu assured that the team did Nigeria proud and would receive a warm welcome.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/super-falcons-arrive-in-nigeria-set-to-be-received-by-first-lady-tinubu-2023081008363058494

William Gallas, a former defender for both Chelsea and Arsenal, has provided his opinion on Kai Havertz signing for the Gunners.

German international Havertz left Stamford Bridge after three seasons in the summer transfer window for £62 million.

The former Chelsea player joins the list of players who made a switch from Stamford Bridge to the Emirates.

After a strong performance in Sunday's Community Shield victory over Pep Guardiola's team, Havertz has already made an impression at the Emirates. Gallas, though, is less convinced with his former team's most recent addition.

Gallas condemns Havertz's signing
The 45-year-old told Gambling Zone that he didn't think Havertz would rise to the challenge when asked about the player's potential to excel in his new team.

Speaking in an interview with Gambling Zone as reported by Daily Mail, Gallas said, “I don't believe that Havertz was a player that Arsenal needed to sign this summer. For me, even when he was at Chelsea, he was never consistent enough.

“He scored some important goals for the club, and he played well in flashes. (But) he didn’t put in enough good performances during his Chelsea career in my opinion.

“When I saw Arsenal were signing him, I didn’t really understand it. I was surprised that they signed him.”

Arsenal still lacks a winning mindset says Gallas
Gallas thinks Arsenal still lack a particular winning mindset necessary to challenge Man City in the league.

Gallas continued, “I’m sure Arsenal will get very close to winning the title this season, but I don’t think they will be crowned champions in May.

“I think Arsenal are missing the character and the personality to become champions - these are the qualities that they needed to show at the end of last season, and they couldn’t.'

I want to see Arsenal adapt a soldier mentality this season. I want to see players ready to communicate much on the pitch - demanding more of each other.

“I want to see experienced players taking responsibility when things are not going well on the pitch for Arsenal.

“I still think that Arsenal are missing this type of win-at-all-costs mentality and that is why I don’t think they will win the title this season.”

Arsenal kicks off their Premier League campaign against Nottingham Forest at the Emirate stadium after recently winning the Community Shield.

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/william-gallas-slams-arsenals-new-signing-kai-havertz-insists-he-will-struggle-at-the-emirate-2023080913514768538

Referee, Lee Mason, who quit after making a huge VAR error last season, has been rehired, but this time to educate new referees.

The referee was criticised for a blunder he made in a Premier League match between Brentford and Arsenal.

The Gunners were in a title race with Man City when they welcomed Brentford to the Emirates but the Bees went home with a point after a VAR error was made by the officials.

Lee Mason failed to draw the offside line for Brentford's equaliser with the Bees earning a point at full-time.

He was later asked to quit his position by the PGMOL after evidence showed that he failed to do his VAR duties.

However, according to reports Mason is set to return as a trainer after being hired by the PGMOL.

Lee Mason set for Premier League return
According to Mail Sport, PGMOL, the organisation that oversees referees, has hired the official who abruptly resigned after failing to see an offside in the moments leading up to Brentford's equaliser against Arsenal in February.

Mason, a Bolton native, has been reinstated and will collaborate with referees in the Premier League, EFL, and Women's Super League while focusing mostly on Leagues One and Two.

Mason has officiated 287 matches in the Premier League's top division during his 15 years as a referee until his retirement.

PGMOL has taken a number of actions to strengthen support for officials under new leader Howard Webb, including the rehiring of Mason.

They have also hired "football insights coaches" for the first time, including former Ipswich player Chris Kiwomya and former FA development coach Ifran Kawri. Andre Marriner, a former official, will also lend assistance.

Former referee Keith Hackett expressed his displeasure with the move, saying, “The guy who did not set the world alight in the middle but was a survivor and an abject failure in the VAR role will be advising and passing on his skill sets to others.”

Source: Pulse Sports Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/lee-mason-premier-league-rehire-referee-who-made-shocking-var-error-last-season-2023080912530552563

Nigerian players react on social media after Liz Cambage denies calling D'Tigress monkeys.

Following Australia's Liz Cambage's explosive interview with Taylor Rooks of Bleacher Report the Nigerian basketball social media space has been on fire.

In a lengthy interview with Taylor Rooks of Bleacher Report, Cambage addressed claims that she racially disparaged Nigerian players during a warm-up game for the Opals' 2021 Olympic campaign.

Cambage confirmed she had been involved in a physical incident during the warm-up game and that there "were words exchanged" before withdrawing from the Tokyo Games due to mental health issues.

The interview has brought back memories of the situation that a lot of people put in the past.

Liz Cambage's initial response to monkey speculation
When the accusation was first made was a statement by Liz CXamage that apologized to the Nigerian team.

She said, "The incident that took place in the pre-Olympic scrimmage with the Nigerian national team was handled privately almost a year ago,

"I am very disappointed and hurt by the events and accusations that have unfolded in the Australian media.

"The account of what took place is inaccurate and misleading. I did not use the racial slur toward the Nigerian team that has been circulating.

"After I unintentionally fouled a Nigerian player on court, I was then physically assaulted by this player on the sideline of my bench.

"I was hit in the face and pushed to the ground, but I walked away. ... We did not have professional referees to manage and prioritize both teams' safety during this highly physical scrimmage.

"This is not an excuse of justification to the events that unfolded or my actions, however, I feel that a full picture of the environment that led to this outcome must be shared.

" I have taken responsibility and accountability for my involvement in what occurred. I genuinely apologized to the Nigerian team and I once again am sorry that these events are being rehashed.

"I truly hope that I can move forward from this incident and apply actionable effort to be my best self."

Liz Cambage explains D'Tigress monkey chants from her perspective
Cambage spoke on her hesitation to compete at the Tokyo Olympics when asked about the claims and why her side of the story is so different.

She said, “A lot of girls don’t like me and a lot of times I say no to something, people really want to make me look like the issue.

“I never wanted to go into that Olympics. I spent the whole week going into that bubble saying I don’t want to be in the bubble.

"I’ll show you text messages between me and Sandy Brondello [saying] I do not want to go to this Olympics, I do not want to be a part of this Olympics, I do not believe in this Olympics.

“I feel like the Tokyo Olympics is everything against what the true Olympics is. Like the Olympics is about nations coming together, not weird bubbles.

"I’m not a bubble girl. I have anxiety and I need to be able to leave situations like that [snaps fingers]... there is so much pressure.

“This is the pinnacle of sport. This is the Olympics. I’m already struggling mentally and physically. I’m open and honest about everything...

“This one girl that has been saying I called them monkeys... I’ll call you a b***h. I’ll call you a dumb b***h. That’s what I say to people I get angry with,” Cambage said.

“I don’t really lean towards racial insults. That’s not how I go. I’m very pro-Black. I did not say these things. This girl that is saying all these things had a lot to say about me.

“Leak the tapes. I’ve never owned the tapes. Leak the tapes. Y’all want to see the truth, leak the tapes. Everyone in Australia that has seen the tapes, still lying about what is on these tapes, leak the tapes.”

Liz Cambage issues statement after new tape
A section of the tapes has now been revealed on social media which has sparked more wild reactions on social media.

Liz Cambage has issued a statement following the release of an additional video showing their confrontation at a pre-Tokyo Olympics scrimmage.

She denied racist slurs, though, and added that she was "pretty annoyed at all the fake news and lies.

A opposing player was elbowed in the head by Cambage during a practice match in Las Vegas that was played behind closed doors, as seen in the footage

After the altercation, the newly released video shows Cambage leaving in the direction of the Australia bench while also appearing to speak with Nigerian players nearby.

In response to what Cambage stated, a Nigerian player then rushes toward her and appears to punch her as the two teams converge.

The statement by the 31-year-old said, “In light of the circulating footage from the 2021 scrimmage between the Opals and D’Tigress, I want to provide clarity on my recollection of the events.

“Before the scrimmage, I had expressed concerns to Opals staff about the unacceptable playing conditions within the COVID ‘Bubble’ they were imposing.

"The circulating video portrays a highly physical game with no officiating, resulting in me being attacked and sustaining a concussion.

"Contrary to false claims, I did not use racial slurs or refer to anyone as a monkey, which is evident from the footage.

“To set the record straight, I never stated that I had officially joined the Nigerian national team. Instead, I expres

"I had discussions with staff members about the necessary steps to become eligible, and thought I was doing them. I extend my best wishes to all players on D’Tigress.

“My dedication to fostering positive change in the sport I love remains unwavering. I have always taken pride in representing the game throughout my career.

“I kindly urge the media and fans to fact-check before publishing and to avoid spreading unverified claims. I also send well wishes to all my former teammates. Looking forward to seeing you all on the court.

“Love and light.”

Liz Cambage claims Nigeria wants her
In the interview, a statement by Cambage that went viral was her saying the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) want her to dump Australia.

She said, “Like, why does Nigeria want me to leave Australia and represent them? We’re filing for me to leave the Australian team so I can represent Nigeria. I’ve been in cahoots, I’ve been talking with them since all of this happened.

“This is what I mean, people don’t know the truth. I honestly haven’t had one journalist that has written all these lies actually come to me and want my side of the story. There’s a whole tape with the truth out there.

D'Tigress react to Liz Cambage
Nigerian basketball players have taken to social media to debunk the statements by Cambage about the incident and her international allegiance switch.

Promise Amukamara on Twitter said, “She called us Monkeys & told us to go back to our country. Yes she said that!” wrote Amukamara.

“Literally everyone from both teams have the same story BUT her, so y’all do the math! & the only person she has been in “cahoots” w/ was the former coach of our National team & he’s no longer the coach, so there’s that!”

Sarah Ogoke a key player as D'Tigress beat Senegal to win the 2023 FIBA Women's Afrobasket also added, “We are not recruiting you and you definitely spewed racist profanities against us during our scrimmage”.

There are claims that the negotiations for Cambage to switch were made by the former coach but have been shit down since the appointment of Rena Wakama.

The saga involving Cambage is not expected to end soon as many stakeholders are expected to give their opinion going forward.

Source: Pulse Sport Nigeria

https://www.pulsesports.ng/basketball/story/liz-cambage-denies-calling-dtigress-monkeys-nigerian-players-react-on-social-media-2023080906081884237