₦airaland Forum

Super Eagles defender Kevin Akpoguma, is certainly enjoying the summer of his life.

The 29-year-old Hoffenheim defender has been spotted living it up in Ibiza alongside his equally stunning girlfriend, Nima Benati.

The couple, known for their low-profile relationship, decided to unwind in the beautiful Balearic Islands, the same location they spent last summer together.

While Akpoguma's appearances for the Super Eagles may have dwindled in recent years, it’s clear that he's making the most of his off-field time.

Benati, a renowned Italian fashion photographer and model, posted several pictures of their holiday on her Instagram page.

The pair looked relaxed as they enjoyed their vacation, with Akpoguma sporting trendy braids and a cool pair of shades.

Benati, ever the style icon, radiated elegance as she so often does.

Source: https://www.pulsesports.ng/lifestyle/story/forgotten-super-eagles-star-enjoys-summer-vacation-with-stunning-girlfriend-in-ibiza-2025070111522037139

Veteran Super Eagles defender Kenneth Omeruo praised Victor Osimhen in a recent interview, testifying that no defender in the Turkish Super Lig can stop the Nigerian striker.

Omeruo, 31, is well-versed in Turkish football, having had multiple stints at Kasimpasa and a season at Alyanspor. Reviewing Osimhen's season in Turkey, the former Leganes man gave him an excellent eulogy, listing the attributes that make him indefensible, as he squared up against him during the season, conceding twice.

What Omeruo said

Osimhen spent last season on loan at Galatasaray. He led the Cim-Bom to their 25th league title, which earned them a fifth star on their jersey. They also won the Turkish cup to boot.

In a recent interview, Omeruo praised his success and broke down the qualities that make Osimhen such a tough adversary for defenders like himself.

"He is a great player for Türkiye,” Omeruo said, per GsGazette. “He has a very good character and makes a serious difference. Do you know the bars? Agility, quickness, speed. Osimhen has all of these.

“There is not a single defender in Türkiye who can hold him back. His first and second steps are very quick. His acceleration is very fast."

Source: https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/victor-osimhen-super-eagles-defender-explains-why-turkish-league-defenders-cannot-mark-nigerian-ace-2025063017143847312

Kwara United's trophy parade after winning the Nigerian FA Cup has sparked varied reactions in Nigerian football.

The Harmony boys ended a 60-year wait for an FA Cup title on Sunday with a penalty shootout victory over underdogs Abakaliki FC in the 2025 President Federation Cup final, but their landmark triumph was overshadowed by awkward post-match moments and safety concerns during their celebratory parade.

The Ilorin-based club, favourites ahead of the final, had to work hard against the resilient third-tier Abakaliki FC, who had earned a reputation as giant killers throughout the competition.

Despite a goalless draw in regulation time, Kwara United held their nerves in the shootout, winning 4-3 to clinch the club’s first FA Cup crown since 1965.

The trailer trophy parade fiasco

However, the victory celebration took an odd turn during the trailer trophy parade in Ilorin.

The parade commenced from Eyenkorin, snaking through various routes in the Ilorin Metropolis before culminating at the Banquet Hall, Government House, where the state governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, hosted the victorious teams.

Photos and videos circulating on social media show the players perched precariously on the edge of the trailer, with no visible safety measures in place. Some fans expressed shock at the apparent lack of planning and concern for the players’ well-being.

Source: https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/watch-nigerian-fa-cup-champions-trailer-trophy-parade-2025070106562745303

Nigeria’s women’s epee team celebrated a historic milestone at the 23rd African Fencing Championships, securing their first-ever win in the competition to finish in the top five.

The five-day tournament hosted at Charterhouse, Lagos, concluded with Egypt emerging as the overall champion, amassing the highest number of gold medals.

After a quarterfinal loss to Algeria, the Nigerian team—comprising Somtochukwu Eribenne, Sara Idongesit, and Adebodunirin Thomas rallied to end their campaign on a high. In the classification match for fifth place, they displayed resilience and teamwork to defeat the Benin Republic 45 40, giving the home crowd something to cheer about.

An elated Thomas described the victory as a morale booster: “We are excited to win our first game and also finish in the top five in the event. We worked together as a team, and our coach helped us to put up a good fight against our opponents. This will surely help our confidence going into the next competition.”

Source: Pulse Sports

https://www.pulsesports.ng/other-sports/story/nigeria-records-first-win-as-egypt-rules-23rd-african-fencing-championships-2025062922285189057

Nigerian track fan has urged everyone to plead with Favour Ofili, saying losing her to Turkey is like losing Tobi Amusan.

Following Favour Ofili's brilliant performances at the ATX Classic in Texas, a Nigerian fan has clamoured for the 'Turkey bound' sprint star to forgive the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) and return to represent her fatherland.

The 22-year-old track queen who's currently in a switch of allegiance saga to Turkey, blazed to a famous victory in a blistering time of 10.87s (1.9 ), to win her 100m qualifying heat at the meet in Texas.

With her winning time, Ofili broke her previous PB of 10.93s set in 2022, becoming the joint sixth fastest woman in the world this year.

Not resting on her oars, Ofili came back to win the final in a windy 10.78s (3.1), defeating Olympic 200m champion Gabby Thomas, who clocked 10.95s, while Kayla White was third in 10.97s.

Source: Pulse Sport

https://www.pulsesports.ng/athletics/story/if-youre-that-good-you-dont-need-to-dip-kishane-thompson-shades-noah-lyles-winning-style-at-the-olympics-in-paris-2025062818291953162

Father O’Connell Science College of Niger State and Government Secondary School, Karu (FCT) have emerged as the new champions of the 25th MILO National Secondary Schools Basketball Championship.

Niger and Abuja made history as Nigeria’s worthy representatives for the inaugural African School Sports Games in Algeria next month.

Thrilling Finals at National Stadium, Surulere

The 2025 MILO National Secondary Schools Basketball Championship finale, held at the National Stadium in Surulere, Lagos, ended in dramatic fashion with Niger State’s Father O’Connell Science College clinching the boys’ title and FCT’s Government Secondary School, Karu, securing the girls’ crown.

Father O’Connell edged out Bishop Dimeari Grammar School, Yenagoa, Bayelsa, in a nail-biting 66-64 overtime victory, finally claiming their first national title after consecutive near misses in 2023 and 2024.

Strong Contenders and Historic Representation

Beyond the champions, the competition saw fierce battles for podium finishes. In the boys’ category, Government Secondary School, Gwarinpa, Abuja secured third place, followed by Government Secondary School, Adamawa in fourth, David Hall International College, Ikoyi, Lagos in fifth, and Ahmadiyya College, Kano rounding out the top six.

In the girls’ division, Government Secondary School, Yola, Adamawa finished third, with St. Jude’s Girls Secondary School, Bayelsa in fourth, Onireke High School, Oyo in fifth, and Ahmadiyya College, Kano in sixth place.

Source: Pulse Sports https://www.pulsesports.ng/basketball/story/history-made-nigerian-reps-for-first-ever-african-school-sports-games-emerge-after-dramatic-25th-basketball-final-2025062810533559794

The former England midfielder, who celebrated his 50th birthday in May, was pictured with his right arm in a brace after undergoing wrist surgery.

British media revealed that the surgery had been planned for some time by the former England captain. He had been complaining of increasing pain in his right wrist, which he fractured 22 years ago.

The injury occurred during a friendly match played by the England national team on May 22, 2003 (a 2-1 victory, with goals scored by Gareth Southgate and Emile Heskey).

Source: https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/get-well-soon-man-united-legend-david-beckham-hospitalized-after-undergoing-surgery-2025062713425807890

In a heartwarming gesture, Odion Jude Ighalo extended his charitable endeavours to Abuja, creating a moment of sheer joy for dozens of widows at an exclusive Meet and Greet hosted by the striker himself.

The Super Eagles star known as much for his goal scoring prowess on the pitch as his generosity off it, delighted fans and beneficiaries alike by sharing snapshots from the event on his verified Snapchat account.

The gathering saw Ighalo personally handing out envelopes of cash to widows—a moment that social media users have described as both emotional and uplifting.

Widows who attended the gathering were visibly touched by the heartfelt interaction and financial support.

Source: https://www.pulsesports.ng/lifestyle/story/joy-flows-as-odion-ighalo-blesses-widows-with-love-and-support-at-abuja-meet-and-greet-2025062712082536363

Israel Adesanya has been acknowledged for taking his first chance to win UFC gold.

When then-current champion Robert Whittaker was sidelined, Adesanya and American Kelvin Gastelum fought for the interim middleweight title at UFC 236 in Atlanta in 2019.

Adesanya won his first UFC title belt at the moment and now both competitors now have a spot in the UFC Hall of Fame's fight wing.

Adesanya in Hall of Fame

The pair were inducted during a ceremony in Las Vegas, part of the UFC’s International Fight Week celebrations.

The fight between the Nigerian-New Zealander was his sixth encounter under the UFC banner, after joining the organization in 2018 as a highly hyped prospect.

Source: https://www.pulsesports.ng/mma-and-combat-sports/story/israel-adesanya-nigerian-stylebender-inducted-into-ufc-hall-of-fame-2025062803154168280

@ Pulse Sport

The FIFA Club World Cup 2025 has been a stage for both established stars and breakout talents to shine.

With Lionel Messi not in the spotlight for this list, here are the top seven players who have impressed so far in the tournament, ranked based on their performances, impact, and potential.

From goal-scoring heroics to all-around brilliance, these players have stolen the show in the first phase of the competition.

1. Michael Olise (Bayern Munich)

Olise has been a revelation, sitting joint-top of the goalscoring charts with three goals and adding two assists.

His explosive pace, silky dribbling, and clinical finishing have made him a nightmare for defenders, particularly in Bayern’s rout of Auckland City.

2. Kenan Yildiz (Juventus)

The 20-year-old Turkish star has been a bright spark in Juventus’ campaign, also netting three goals.

His trademark long-range rockets and creative playmaking have turned heads, with a standout strike against Wydad that no goalkeeper could’ve stopped.

Full gist at Pulse Sports: https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/no-messi-ranking-the-top-7-best-players-in-the-fifa-club-world-cup-2025-2025062712241723228

Joseph Olowu has made a significant move joining Stockport County by signing on a three-year deal.

The defender, whose contract with Doncaster Rovers expired following the 2024-25 season, brings a wealth of experience to Edgeley Park/

Olowu, a 25-year-old defender of Nigerian descent helped the Doncaster Rovers’ to League Two title-winning campaign.

Born in Ibadan, Nigeria, before moving to England as a child, Olowu is eligible to represent the Super Eagles, Nigeria’s national team.

Stockport announced the deal with massive photos that went viral on social media.

Joseph Olowu on Stockport County

Along with the photos was a message that said, "We are delighted to announce that we have agreed terms for the signing of League Two title-winner, Joseph Olowu.

"The defender will sign a three-year deal at Edgeley Park following the expiration of his contract at Doncaster Rovers.

"Welcome to County, Joseph!"

Source: Pulse Sports

https://www.pulsesports.ng/super-eagles/story/joseph-olowu-nigerian-born-star-joins-stockport-county-2025062620032770438

In a heartfelt tribute that has touched football fans across Nigeria and beyond, Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen took to Instagram to honour his mentor and former Manchester United forward, Odion Ighalo.

Sharing a throwback photo of the two together, Osimhen wrote, “One of the few people I will forever hold in high esteem.”

A Throwback That Tells a Story

The photo Osimhen shared dates back to their time together on holiday in Nigeria - a memorable moment from a cruise last season.

Beyond a simple snapshot, it symbolises Ighalo’s role as a trailblazer who paved the way for younger Nigerian talents like Osimhen.

Ighalo, known for his diverse career across Europe, China, and the Middle East, made history as the first Nigerian to score for Manchester United during his 2020 loan spell.

Full gist: https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/i-will-forever-hold-you-in-high-esteem-osimhen-tell-ex-super-eagles-striker-ighalo-in-emotional-tribute-2025062619060079778

Nigeria Super Falcons captain Rasheedat Ajibade has expressed strong confidence that the team is ready to win a historic 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title.

This assurance came after Nigeria’s solid goalless draw against world number 22 Portugal in a recent friendly match as the Falcons stepped up preparation for the 13th WAFCON in Morocco.

Ajibade’s rallying cry for Mission X

Known as “the girl with the blue hair,” former Atletico Madrid forward Ajibade led the Super Falcons in a hard-fought match that saw a slow start but an improved second half.

Ajibade and her Falcons teammates weathered the storm in Portugal, helped by the brilliance of Africa’s number one goalkeeper, Chiamaka Nnadozie, to maintain their good form in the build-up to the tournament proper.

Speaking about the team’s mindset ahead of WAFCON 2024, she stated, “We are focused on Mission X. For us, effort is everything,” as shared on the team’s official X account.

Ajibade impressed recently when she scored both goals to fire the Super Falcons to a deserved 2-0 win against neighbours Cameroon’s Indomitable Lionesses.

Source: https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/effort-is-everything-ajibade-declares-nigeria-super-falcons-ready-to-win-10th-wafcon-title-2025062603315816294

Former Arsenal and Togo striker Emmanuel Adebayor has shared his profound respect for Nigerian football legend Nwankwo Kanu.

Adebayor was reportedly addressing claims comparing the two icons by promptly dismissing any such debate in a heartfelt social media post.

“I beg you people, Kanu [Nwankwo] is my idol and my god of football. So please, no comparison needed here. Thank you for understanding,” Adebayor stated, as quoted by Brila.

His words have since gone viral, earning admiration from Nigerian football fans who praised his humility and reverence for Kanu, fondly known as Papilo.

Full gist: https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/kanu-nwankwo-is-my-idol-ex-manchester-city-star-makes-humble-admission-2025062511103135275

Liverpool has reportedly launched a significant offer for Napoli striker Victor Osimhen, indicating their intent to further strengthen the squad under Arne Slot.

Osimhen is understood to be available, having spent last season on loan at Galatasaray and seemingly not featuring in Antonio Conte's long-term plans at Napoli.

The Reds’ pursuit of the Nigerian suggests a shift from the Merseyside club’s previous interest in Alexander Isak, who was reportedly Slot's "dream" signing.

However, Newcastle United have consistently shown zero intention of selling Isak, who still has three years on his contract and can offer Champions League football.

Liverpool’s Osimhen ambition

The proposed deal for Osimhen, as per journalist Sebastien Vidal via TEAMtalk, involves a cash payment along with Darwin Nunez and Federico Chiesa, aiming to meet Napoli's reported €75 million valuation.

The reported transfer structure comes as Slot prioritises an elite No. 9 to defend the Premier League title, which the Merseyside club won last season.

The potentially world-record £200 million asking price for Isak appears to be directing Liverpool's focus towards alternatives such as Osimhen; however, it remains to be seen if Napoli budge on the Reds’ rumoured offer.

Source: https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/victor-osimhen-liverpool-prepare-ambitious-bid-to-lure-wantaway-napoli-forward-2025062412184742475

Pulse Sports details some untold facts about Lionel Messi who turns 38 today.

Football’s greatest just hit another milestone as Lionel Messi turns 38 today.

From Rosario to Camp Nou to global football royalty, Messi’s journey has been nothing short of epic.

But even with all the Ballon d'Ors, World Cup glory, and record-smashing performances, there’s a side to Messi many fans have never seen.

Messi owns the most expensive car ever among footballers

Forget modesty for a second, because among his jaw-dropping car collection sits the Ferrari 335 S Spider Scaglietti, a rare 1957 model that he reportedly purchased at an auction for a whopping ₦60.4 billion ($37 million).

He is a Record-smashing, Trophy-lifting machine

Let’s talk numbers. Messi has amassed:

44 major career trophies — the most in football history

8 Ballon d'Or titles — the most in football history, including one in 2023 after his heroic World Cup win

866 career goals and counting — 68 of those came from free-kicks alone

106 goals for Argentina — the country’s all-time top scorer

From Olympic gold to Copa América to the World Cup in Qatar, Messi has done it all.

Source: https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/lionel-messi-7-things-you-dont-know-about-the-barcelona-legend-who-completed-football-2025062407431219377

The most iconic picture you'll see in football history.

https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/lionel-messi-7-things-you-dont-know-about-the-barcelona-legend-who-completed-football-2025062407431219377

🇦🇷 1104 Games
⚽️ 865 Goals
🎯 384 Assists
🏅 8 Ballon d'Ors
🏆 46 Trophies

Happy Birthday to the GREATEST OF ALL TIME, Lionel Messi, who turns 38 today. 🐐

Ahead of the 2025 WTT Contender Lagos, a star-studded lineup has been unveiled, thus promising to be an exciting tournament to anticipate.

The star-studded line-up for the 2025 WTT Contender Lagos has been officially unveiled, with the tournament set to take place from July 22 to 26 in Nigeria’s bustling commercial capital.

Widely regarded as one of the most thrilling events in the WTT Contender Series, this year’s edition promises a showcase of elite talent from across the globe. Among the headline acts are women’s world No. 9 Hina Hayata of Japan, African champion Hana Goda of Egypt, and rising French sensation Prithika Pavade.

Making her debut in Lagos, the 24-year-old Hayata is seen as a formidable challenger to China’s dominance in women’s table tennis.

Ranked as the fourth-highest Japanese player in women’s singles, she is a key figure in Japan’s golden generation. A silver and bronze Olympic medallist, Hayata has consistently delivered top-tier performances, earning multiple podium finishes at both the World and Asian Championships.

Full gist: https://www.pulsesports.ng/other-sports/story/2025-wtt-contender-lagos-stellar-lineup-unveiled-as-players-fight-for-dollar100000-winning-prize-money-2025062406324661780

Gift Monday, the in-form Washington Spirit forward, has openly addressed her surprising exclusion from Nigeria's 24-player squad for the upcoming 2024 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.

Despite the disappointment, the former FC Robo Queens star has publicly thrown her support behind the Super Falcons.

Head coach Justine Madugu's squad list, released on Friday, raised eyebrows among fans and pundits with Monday's omission, especially considering her impressive form in the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL).

Since linking up with Washington Spirit in March, the 23-year-old has registered four goals and one assist in nine league appearances, showcasing her attacking prowess.

What Monday said

In a heartfelt message shared on her official X (formerly Twitter) account, Monday reflected on the difficult news with remarkable grace.

"Sometimes the hardest moments reveal the strength of our hearts," she wrote.

She continued, "I have seen the official squad list for the upcoming WAFCON tournament and yes, my name isn’t on it. While it hurts and is a tough pill to swallow, I want to make it clear that I hold no grudges, no resentment. I am hale and hearty, fully fit, and still deeply in love with the game and the green white green."

SOurce: https://www.pulsesports.ng/super-falconsng/story/its-hurt-monday-gift-reacts-after-omission-from-wafcon-list-2025062206251315360

No Nigerian-themed wedding for England star Dominic Solanke.

Tottenham Hotspur striker of Nigerian descent Dominic Solanke celebrated a significant personal milestone by marrying his partner in a stunning ceremony near Lake Como, Italy.

The wedding, which has captured the attention of football fans worldwide following a triumphant 2024-2025 season with Spurs.

Born Dominic Ayodele Solanke-Mitchell on September 14, 1997, in Reading, England, to Nigerian parents, his roots are noticeable with his last name.

Solanke gets married

Despite his Nigerian roots, he represents England internationally, having earned caps at various youth levels and the senior team.

There were reports of Solanke representing Nigeria in the past before he committed to England.

The wedding, highlighted in a post on his social media account, showcased a breathtaking lakeside setting.

Solanke opted for a traditional white wedding, unlike Eberechi Eze, another England player of Nigerian descent who celebrated his heritage with an Igbo-themed wedding in London.

Footballers are increasingly getting married during the off-season, and Solanke’s nuptials align with this trend.

An example is Cyriel Dessers, the Rangers forward, who wed his partner, Rosalie De Ruysscher, in a stunning ceremony in Montalbano, southern Italy.

Source: https://www.pulsesports.ng/sports-gist/story/dominic-solanke-nigerian-born-player-gets-married-2025062108351425055

Super Falcons forward Rinsola Babajide couldn't contain her excitement after earning her first senior call-up to Nigeria's Women's Africa Cup of Nations squad.

Former Liverpool forward Rinsola Babajide has expressed immense joy and gratitude after earning her first senior call-up to Nigeria’s Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) squad.

The Super Falcons forward took to social media with an emotional all-caps message, celebrating the opportunity to represent her country at Africa’s premier women’s football tournament.

Strong and Balanced Super Falcons Squad Announced

Super Falcons head coach Justine Madugu announced a strong 24-player squad for the 13th edition of WAFCON, with Babajide among 11 debutants.

The squad blends experienced stars like Michelle Alozie, Ashleigh Plumptre, and Osinachi Ohale with promising talents including Jennifer Echegini, Deborah Abiodun, and the returning Halimatu Ayinde.

Three home-based players, goalkeeper Rachael Unachukwu and defenders Sikiratu Isah and Miracle Usani also earned their spots.

Babajide’s Emotional Response and Milestone Moment

After the squad announcement on Friday, Babajide, who recently impressed in a friendly against Cameroon, shared her excitement on social media:

“GUYSSSS, I’M GOING TO MY FIRST SENIOR MAJOR TOURNAMENT!!! IT’S THE GREATEST HONOUR KNOWING I’LL BE REPRESENTING MY COUNTRY AT THE AFRICAN CUP OF NATIONS !! THANK YOU FOR ALL THE LOVE & SUPPORT UP UNTIL THIS POINT! GOD DID.”

This call-up signals a major milestone in Babajide’s career, which has seen steady progress through Nigeria’s youth ranks.

Source; https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/greatest-honour-rinsola-babajide-excited-about-first-major-tournament-for-nigeria-celebrates-best-birthday-gift-2025062013454824391

Former Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel, a vocal critic of Jackson since his move to Stamford Bridge, did not hold back in his assessment after the striker received a direct red card.

What happened

Chelsea's FIFA Club World Cup campaign hit a big snag with a 3-1 loss to Flamengo, a defeat that saw much of the criticism directed at striker Nicolas Jackson following his ill-advised red card.

The incident, which occurred just minutes after Jackson entered the field as a substitute, reduced Chelsea to ten men and effectively extinguished their hopes of a comeback.

Jackson received a straight red for a dangerous challenge, reportedly a studs-up tackle on Flamengo's Ayrton Lucas.

What Mikel said

Mikel, on punditry duty for DAZN, who had previously criticised Noni Madueke in Chelsea's opening win against LAFC, expressed his dismay at Jackson's actions.

"Unbelievable. Stupid, stupid, stupid mistake. I don’t know what is going through his head. Your team needs you and you do that," Mikel lamented.

He drew a parallel to Jackson's previous sending off, "He did that at Newcastle. Now he’s done this. I don’t care what his frustration his…"

Source: https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/jackson-cost-his-team-mikel-obi-blast-chelseas-senegalese-striker-2025062105291135996

A 9th Ballon d'Or could be on the cards for Lionel Messi after his brilliant performance for Inter Miami against Porto at the Club World Cup

Lionel Messi continues to sprinkle magic dust wherever he goes, and this time, it was on Club World Cup soil.

The Argentine maestro delivered yet another unforgettable moment as Inter Miami came from behind to beat Portuguese powerhouse FC Porto 2-1, securing a historic first win for an MLS club over a European side.

Messi’s masterclass lifts Miami to landmark victory

Things did not start well for Inter Miami, who fell behind in the eighth minute after a

Porto looked ready to dominate the Group A clash, nearly doubling their lead through Rodrigo Mora and Alan Varela, only for goal-line heroics and the post to deny them.

But Inter Miami came out roaring after halftime. Just two minutes into the second half, Telasco Segovia rifled Marcelo Weigandt’s cross into the roof of the net.

Messi doing Messi things - unreal free-kick! ⚽️

Enjoy it from every angle 👏👀

Watch the @fifacwc | June 14 - July 13 | Every Game | Free | https://t.co/i0K4eUtwwb | #FIFACWC #TakeItToTheWorld #MIAFCP pic.twitter.com/3qCHOEzF1d

— DAZN Football (@DAZNFootball) June 19, 2025

The equaliser rattled Porto, and before they could regroup, Messi stepped up with a jaw-dropping freekick from just outside the box. And just like that, the comeback was complete.

Another record for the GOAT

The goal didn’t just win the match for Inter Miami, it also made history. It was Messi’s 50th goal in just 61 appearances for Inter Miami, making him the fastest player to hit that milestone for the club.


It also marked Inter Miami’s first-ever victory over European opposition and the first time any MLS team has beaten a UEFA club in a competitive fixture.

Compared to his international tally, 50 goals in 107 games for Argentina, Messi’s record with Inter Miami is a testament to how the former Barcelona star’s magic remains undimmed. For Inter Miami fans, it’s another chapter in the legend’s already glittering legacy.

Source: https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/messi-makes-history-again-as-sensational-freekick-gives-inter-miami-club-world-cup-win-over-porto-2025061922593681172

Ruben Amorim's desperate search for a striker is set to continue, even after the arrival of Matheus Cunha from Wolves.

The Red Devils reportedly have a long list of options that have been narrowed down to Sporting's Viktor Gyokeres, Nigeria's Victor Osimhen, and Frankfurt star Hugo Ekitike.

However, a move for the aforementioned trio appears unlikely due to financial constraints, pushing Amorim in a different direction.

According to reports, Genk's Nigerian striker Tolu Arokodare has emerged as a potential alternative to become United's new Centre forward.

Arokodare, valued at 18 million euros by Transfermarkt, finished as the top goalscorer in the Belgian Pro League last season with 17 goals in 30 games, and finished with 23 goals and 7 assists across all competitions.

The 24-year-old previously had spells in Germany, France and Latvia before making the move to Genk for just £3.5 million in January 2023.

A move to Old Trafford could be a more cost-effective transfer, allowing for the club to push through their move for Brentford star Bryan Mbeumo, who is expected to leave this summer.

Source: https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/manchester-united-dump-victor-osimhen-for-naira31-billion-super-eagles-striker-2025061913420724001

After four influential seasons with FC Nantes, Moses Simon is reportedly set to join newly promoted Ligue 1 side Paris FC in a deal reportedly worth around €7 million.

The move not only marks a fresh start for the 29-year-old winger but also shows the ambitions of a club backed by one of the wealthiest families on the planet.

Paris FC set to land top target as Nantes accept improved offer

Paris FC, making a return to Ligue 1 for the first time in 46 years, have wasted no time in flexing their financial muscle.

After an initial €5 million bid for Moses Simon fell short of Nantes’ expectations, the capital club returned with an improved proposal that appears to have sealed the deal.

Simon has been a mainstay at Nantes since joining permanently in 2020, playing a crucial role in keeping the club in the top flight and spearheading their run to back-to-back Coupe de France finals.

He was instrumental in Nantes' 2022 Cup triumph and topped the club’s goal contributions in the 2024/25 season with 18, scoring eight and assisting 10.

Losing him will be a major blow for Nantes, but Paris FC are getting a dynamic attacker ready to make an immediate impact.

New billionaire-backed era begins at Paris FC

The signing of Moses Simon is a statement move by Paris FC’s powerful new backers as they begin their journey in Ligue 1.

With the Arnault family, one of the richest families in the world, owning a 52.4% stake through Agache Sport, and global brand Red Bull holding another 10.6%, Paris FC’s financial muscle is unprecedented for a newly promoted side.

Bernard Arnault, CEO of LVMH, is no stranger to building empires, and his involvement opened up a bold new chapter for the Parisian outfit.

Source: https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/moses-simon-on-the-move-as-nantes-agree-deal-with-new-billionaires-2025061817361542025

After a heated incident at the 2023 AFCON, the former Chelsea and Real Madrid defender received a lengthy ban from football

Geremi Njitap, once a commanding presence in midfield and defence for Chelsea and Real Madrid, has been hit with a five-year ban from all football-related activity following a heated fallout with Samuel Eto’o.

The sanction, announced by the Cameroonian Football Federation (Fecafoot), includes a £13,000 fine and is tied to a dispute during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.

AFCON clash with Eto’o’s staff sparks dramatic fallout

The controversy began in the dressing room during the 2023 AFCON, where Geremi, now president of Cameroon’s players' union Synafoc, clashed with a member of Eto’o’s entourage.

Reports suggest the disagreement escalated quickly, amidst growing tension between two of Cameroon’s most iconic football figures. Eto’o, who now serves as Fecafoot president, has been at odds with Geremi over several footballing matters.

The ethics committee reviewed the incident and ruled that Geremi had violated the federation’s code of ethics, resulting in a suspension that will keep him out of the sport until 2030.

His assistant, Daniel Blaise Ngos, was also handed a two-year ban and fined £6,500 for his involvement in the fracas.

Source: https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/former-chelsea-and-real-madrid-star-banned-from-football-after-spat-with-etoo-2025061821023740915

Ahead of the 2024 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco, Super Falcons Head coach Justin Madugu has already submitted his selection, with the announcement anticipated before the team departs for Portugal for their final pre-tournament preparations.

The list is expected to be officially released by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) in the coming days.

The Super Falcons, nine-time continental champions, are aiming for their record-extending 10th WAFCON title at the tournament, which will run from July 5 to July 26, 2025.

They are drawn in Group B alongside Tunisia, Algeria, and Botswana. Their campaign will kick off on July 6 with an opening Group B match against Tunisia at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca.

Before heading to Morocco, Madugu's side will undergo a final phase of preparations in Portugal.

What Madugu said

A key part of this camp will be a friendly match against their Portuguese counterparts on Monday, June 23, 2025, in Lisbon.

"The list has been submitted and it will be made public in the coming days by the federation. That is definitely going to be before our friendly against Portugal on Monday,” Madugu confirmed to PUNCH Sports Extra

He added, "We know the procedure, we have submitted the list and it will be made official by the federation. Maybe after it has been released, if there are questions for me to answer, I will attend to them."

Source: https://www.pulsesports.ng/super-falconsng/story/i-have-submitted-wafcon-squad-list-super-falcons-coach-2025061810555826556

During the January transfer window, the Brazilian left Al Hilal and returned to Brazil to play for his boyhood club, Santos.

The forward struggled to get back to his best and has been hit with several injuries that have affected his performance.

Neymar Sr defends son

Neymar's father gave an interview to L'Équipe, via Abola, in which he defended his son's professionalism against constant associations with parties and an active nightlife.

"On the pitch, in training, he's irreproachable. But he's Neymar. And that comes as a complete package [laughs]," he began, referring to the Brazilian international's personality. He then used irony to discredit his son's critics.

"People need to stop believing it's Carnival every night. On the field, he's a professional. Off it, it's his life. He goes out when he's on vacation or when he has time off. His injuries didn't happen because he went out with girls. Do you think he tore his cruciate ligaments because he was playing poker?" he questioned.

"It's impossible for an elite player to completely avoid injuries. At the moment, he's doing well, he's recovered his mental balance and physical form. He's lacking a bit of speed, but that's part of the recovery plan," he added.

Source: https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/injuries-didnt-happen-because-he-went-out-with-girls-neymars-father-defends-his-son-2025061710161464370

Victor Osimhen remains the topic of debate across Europe, with fans eagerly anticipating the next destination of the Nigerian striker.

The 26-year-old rejected a move to Al Hilal last week, reportedly holding out for a move to a European club with Champions League participation.

Chelsea, Arsenal, Manchester United, and Galatasaray are believed to retain an interest, but it remains to be seen if any of the aforementioned clubs can raise the required funds.

Speaking on Osimhen's future in a chat with Habersarikirmizi, Turkish commentator Murat Ozbostan said,

“Osimhen is not closing the door to Galatasaray either, but he has not made a clear decision. He is still confused.

“Osimhen’s family is not keen on Arabia. I think his chances of staying at Galatasaray are around 60%.

“Galatasaray made their offer and then waited. I think the Galatasaray management is being very generous.”

Osimhen scored 37 goals during a fruitful loan spell at Galatasaray last season, helping the club win the league and domestic cup, as well as UEFA Champions League football for next season.

Source: https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/they-dont-want-it-turkish-pundit-reveals-main-factor-stopping-osimhen-transfer-2025061707415718556