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Former Chelsea star John Obi Mikel, who has at times been critical of Nicolas Jackson's performances, expressed his approval of the Senegalese forward's involvement in the Blues’ opening goal of the FIFA Club World Cup.

It was Jackson who provided the assist for Neto's strike, after receiving a pass from Cole Palmer, showcasing a promising connection between the two.

Chelsea begin Club World Cup with a win

Chelsea kicked off their FIFA Club World Cup campaign in impressive fashion, picking up right where they left off after their UEFA Conference League triumph.

Under the guidance of Enzo Maresca, the Blues secured a comfortable 2-0 victory over Los Angeles FC in their opening match on Monday, with goals from Pedro Neto and Enzo Fernandez sealing the win.

The opening goal, netted by Pedro Neto, drew particular praise from former Premier League midfielder Michael Brown, who highlighted the skill displayed by Neto just before finding the back of the net.

What Mikel said

Mikel, a legend at Stamford Bridge, believes that Maresca's side is capable of playing "really well" once this duo consistently links up effectively.

He said, "You can see Cole Palmer getting more involved in the game and like I said before the game, I think the combination between Cole and Nicolas Jackson, that’s what makes us play really well.

Source: https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/fifa-club-world-cup-palmer-and-jackson-combination-make-chelsea-play-well-mikel-obi-2025061706265117721

Former UFC Heavyweight Champion Francis Ngannou took to social media to celebrate the impressive victory of his fellow African fighter, Kamaru Usman, over Joaquin Buckley at UFC Fight Night in Atlanta, Georgia.

The post featured a picture of Usman raising his fist in victory after a grueling five-round battle that ended in a unanimous decision.

Nigerian Nightmare overcame personal challenges and a string of tough fights to reclaim his footing in the welterweight division.

Ngannou on Usman

The victory showcased Usman’s strategic dominance, reinforcing his status as a top contender despite recent setbacks.

Along with photos was a message that said, "Congrats to my brother @USMAN84kg for his amazing victory last night.

"It's inspiring to see him do that after all he's been through lately.

"Congrats to @Newmansa94 on his impressive performance. That round 5!"

Usman celebrated the victory, thanking his team.

In a statement, he said, "It truly took a village to build back.

"I’m so incredibly thankful to my family, team, and friends.

"Back to the drawing board and on to the next. Thank you."

Usman is now expected to return to action before the end of the year.

Source: https://www.pulsesports.ng/mma-and-combat-sports/story/kamaru-usman-nigerian-nightmare-thanks-village-for-victory-against-joaquin-buckley-2025061616465094353

Nigerian football sensation Odion Jude Ighalo marked his 36th birthday by captivating fans and fashion enthusiasts on social media.

Born on June 16, in 1989 Ighalo has carved an illustrious career that spans continents.

Ighalo showcasing his impeccable sense of style across three striking images on his social media platforms.

Ighalo celebrates birthday

Ighalo’s choice of attire underscores his status as a trendsetter both on and off the pitch.

The first two depict him in a sophisticated suit paired with a crisp shirt.

There were rumours of him and a UK-based podcaster, Esther, being together in Saudi Arabia, sparking a social media drama.

The podcaster alleged a romantic link-up, sharing photos and messages suggesting she stayed at Ighalo’s mansion, though he denied any deep connection.

Source: https://www.pulsesports.ng/sports-gist/story/super-eagles-legend-odion-ighalo-celebrates-36th-birthday-in-style-2025061615401426625

Twenty-two-year-old world number one Mohamed El-Sayed of Egypt is among the elite fencers set to compete in the 23rd African Fencing Championships, scheduled in Lagos from June 25 to 29.

El-Sayed, who recently clinched a silver medal at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, will be joined by his brother, Mahmoud El-Sayed, the 2025 Junior World Champion.

Speaking at a press briefing ahead of the tournament—the third ever to be hosted in sub-Saharan Africa after previous editions in Senegal (2002, 2009) and Mali (2019)—President of the Nigeria Fencing Federation, Adeyinka Samuel, announced that 26 countries and over 200 fencers are expected to participate in this prestigious continental event.

“A total of 26 African nations have confirmed their participation, bringing with them more than 200 athletes,” Samuel stated. “We are committed to delivering a world-class experience.


Full Gist; https://www.pulsesports.ng/other-sports/story/world-no-1-heads-to-lagos-for-23rd-african-fencing-championships-2025061522585826402

Renowned sports broadcaster and analyst Segun Agbede has declared former Super Eagles captain Sunday Oliseh as his pick for the greatest Nigerian footballer of all time.

The veteran sports broadcaster named Oliseh ahead of iconic players like Rashidi Yekini, Jay-Jay Okocha, and Stephen Keshi.

What Agbede said

In an interview with Punch, he reflected on Nigeria’s footballing golden era, Agbede praised Oliseh’s versatility, tactical intelligence, and influence on the pitch.

“For me, it’s Sunday Oliseh. I watched the 1998 World Cup and Oliseh could play anywhere. He played as a striker in his early years, but also as a defensive midfielder, a number six, a number eight, and a number ten. He was exceptionally talented,” Agbede said.

Source: https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/not-yekini-okocha-or-keshi-sports-oap-names-best-super-eagles-player-2025061411351428979

The State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Georgia, is set to host one of the most anticipated UFC Fight Nights of the year.

The main event features a titanic clash between former UFC Welterweight Champion Kamaru Usman and the rising star Joaquin Buckley.

Kamaru Usman vs Joaquin Buckley preview

Kamaru Usman, known as "The Nigerian Nightmare," returns to the octagon after a period of reflection and recovery.

This comes following monster losses against Leon Edwards and Khamzat Chimaev.

With a record of 20-4, Usman's legacy as a dominant force in the welterweight division is well-established, despite these setbacks.

His wrestling prowess, combined with his improved striking, has made him a formidable opponent.

Facing Buckley, Usman has superior wrestling to control the fight and wear down his opponent and his experience and championship pedigree make him a slight favorite.

Usman was gifted an Atlanta United jersey ahead of the fight setting the stage for his return.

Joaquin Buckley, dubbed "New Mansa," has been on a tear, boasting a record of 19-6.

Buckley's recent victories, including a stunning knockout of Stephen Thompson and a technical knockout win over Colby Covington, have solidified his status as a dangerous contender.

Adding an extra layer of intrigue to the event is the unexpected appearance of former UFC Heavyweight Champion Francis Ngannou at the ceremonial weigh-ins.

Ngannou's presence has sparked speculation about his potential return to the UFC, especially given the current state of the heavyweight division.

Kamaru Usman vs Joaquin Buckley Time

The fight will be a statement of intent from both fighters.

It is an opportunity for Buckley to announce himself as a future champion.

For Usman, it's a chance to reaffirm his place among the elite after significant losses.

The fight will take place on Sunday, June 15 2025 at 3 AM Nigerian time.

Source: https://www.pulsesports.ng/mma-and-combat-sports/story/time-and-where-to-watch-nigerian-nightmare-return-to-the-ufc-2025061405454841621

Fresh off his historic CAF Player of the Year win, Ademola Lookman continues to collect accolades like loose change in a vending machine.

The Atalanta winger has now been nominated for the club’s Goal of the Season award, recognising two spectacular strikes that lit up an already electric campaign.

Real Madrid and Empoli screamers earn Lookman double nomination

Super Eagles star Ademola Lookman is up for Atalanta’s Goal of the Season after delivering two moments of sheer magic: one against Spanish giants Real Madrid and another in a Serie A masterclass versus Empoli.

In the clash with Real Madrid, Lookman buried a powerful strike past Thibaut Courtois, adding to Atalanta’s tally in an intense 3-2 showdown.

But it was his elegant solo effort against Empoli that truly turned heads. Picking up a pass from Mateo Retegui, Lookman danced around the keeper and coolly slotted the ball into an open net.

Both goals earned him Man of the Match honours, and with two highlight-reel finishes to his name and a Goal of the Season trophy in his sights, Lookman is showing his quality for La Dea.

Source: https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/caf-player-of-the-year-lookman-nominated-for-prestigious-atalanta-award-2025061314305671370

Mikel and Ronaldo are part of an ensemble squad for the FIFA Club World Cup, set to kick off this weekend.

Super Eagles legend John Obi Mikel will link up with Brazilian World Cup winner Ronaldo when the FIFA Club World Cup kicks off in the United States this weekend.

As per Daily Mail, Mikel and Ronaldo are part of the DAZN squad that will provide extensive analysis for all the games.

DAZN, who have the global rights to air the Club World Cup, announced Mikel and Ronaldo alongside other analysts like Newcastle’s Callum Wilson and Germany’s World Cup winner Sami Khedira.

These four will provide analysis for all the games, while the likes of Andros Townsend and Brad Friedel will be on co-commentary duty.

Full details: https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/fifa-club-world-cup-super-eagles-legend-john-obi-mikel-teams-up-with-ronaldo-2025061305433552301

Napoli striker Victor Osimhen treated fans in Lagos to a spectacular display of skill, scoring a breathtaking goal with his weaker left foot during a local training session.

The 26-year-old Nigerian international is currently on holiday in his home country after an outstanding season with Turkish giants Galatasaray, where he led the club to a domestic double.

Despite ongoing speculation about his future, Osimhen’s recent performance in Lagos showed he remains at the top of his game.

Osimhen’s moment of brilliance on home soil

During the training session, Osimhen showed why he’s one of Africa’s best at the moment with his incredible technique and composure.

After a clever feint and dribble with his right foot to create space, leaving his marker for dead, he unleashed a powerful left-footed strike that soared into the roof of the net, leaving the goalkeeper helpless.

The goal was met with enthusiastic cheers and shouts of “professional” from a fan, as captured in a viral video shared by Pulse Sports Nigeria.

Source: https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/professional-victor-osimhen-scores-stunning-goal-with-weaker-foot-in-lagos-2025061213141152454

France Football is stirring up the football world once again, this time by teasing the return of the ultra-rare Super Ballon d’Or, an award that hasn’t been handed out since 1989.

And with the whispers growing louder, there’s one name towering above the rest for this special honour: Lionel Messi.

Ballon d’Or organisers tease new award

Only one player in football history has ever laid hands on the Super Ballon d’Or, Real Madrid icon Alfredo Di Stefano, back in 1989.

[url]

A Ballon d’Or unlike any other.
In 1989, one player received a trophy no one else ever has: the Super Ballon d’Or.
But who was it?
And if it were awarded again today… Who would deserve it?#ballondor #superballondor #footballhistory pic.twitter.com/GGbieTEsLK

— Ballon d'Or (@ballondor) June 11, 2025

]

But now, France Football’s social media tease has sparked speculation that this one-of-a-kind award could make a sensational comeback at the 2025 ceremony.

The criteria remains a player who has dominated global football for the past 30 years and stacked up multiple Ballon d’Or wins.

That certainly sounds like Lionel Messi, who holds a staggering eight Ballon d'Or trophies, most earned during his legendary run with Barcelona.

While Cristiano Ronaldo’s five awards put him in the conversation, his recent dismissals of the Ballon d'Or’s relevance may have hurt his chances.

Source: https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/ballon-dor-organisers-tease-giving-messi-award-in-2025-ceremony-2025061122074248921

Manchester City's rebuild is well and truly underway, and the dethroned Premier League champions have added 4 new players to their squad ahead of the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States.

They have completed the signing of Netherlands midfielder Tijjani Reijnders for £46.3m from AC Milan.

Reijnders had the most goals and assists of any midfielder in Serie A last season and was named midfielder of the year in the league.

The midfielder's addition follows the arrival of Rayan Cherki, Rayan Ait-Nouri, and goalkeeper Marcus Bettinelli, who has joined to replace Scott Carson.

Full details: https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/man-city-complete-reijnders-signing-after-adding-cherki-ait-nouri-ahead-of-club-world-cup-2025061109405705773

Olympic champion Mobi Oparaku has called on fans to show understanding and restraint toward Super Eagles striker Victor Boniface following the player's suggestion of stepping away from international football.

What happened

Boniface sparked controversy last Friday when he appeared to announce his retirement from the national team shortly after Nigeria’s international friendly against Russia.

The Bayer Leverkusen forward made the statement via a social media post, which was deleted a few hours later but not before it ignited widespread speculation and debate among fans.

What Oparaku said

The Former Nigerian international urged Nigerians to exercise empathy and consider the physical and emotional toll of a demanding football season.

Oparaku who is a member of Nigeria’s 1996 Olympic gold-winning squad, believes the situation is being blown out of proportion.

Speaking to Brila FM, Oparaku was also quick to defend Boniface’s dedication to the Super Eagles, despite the forward’s struggles to replicate his club form on the international stage.

Source: https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/boniface-is-a-good-player-olympic-champion-begs-for-patience-with-leverkusen-star-2025061107125804517

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qegw675adk8?si=CKCxkaPLIaJt6JpJ

Celebrated Nigerian footballer for Galatasaray and the Nigeria national team, Victor Osimhen, was spotted in Magodo, Lagos.

The sought-after striker joined in the festivities of Eid al-Adha, commonly referred to as Sallah in Nigeria.

This occasion, a significant event in the Islamic calendar, is marked as a time of feasting, prayer, and community gatherings.

Osimhen celebrates Sallah in Magodo

Osimhen's presence in Magodo of Lagos went viral as despite his fame he still has deep connection to his roots.

The video on Osimhen went viral on social media, where Osimhen, dressed casually engages with friends.

His request for 10 wraps of Amala was the highlight of the video as he emphasized his preference for traditional foods during festive occasions.

This comes at a time when Osimhen's professional future remains uncertain.

His future with Napoli, where he previously played a pivotal role in their Serie A triumph, is also unclear, with tensions rising with the club’s management.

Despite these uncertainties, Osimhen was spotted having fun and celebrating Sallah in Magodo.

Source: https://www.pulsesports.ng/sports-gist/story/victor-osimhen-in-magodo-super-eagles-star-orders-amala-to-celebrate-sallah-2025061013013354811

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is once again facing scrutiny over alleged unpaid allowances and bonuses to Super Eagles players.

The payment is meant for three international friendly matches played against West African rival Ghana, Jamaica, and Russia.

The Super Eagles faced Ghana in London, securing a 2-1 victory. They then drew 2-2 with Jamaica but won the Unity Cup via a penalty shootout.

Days after lifting the first trophy of Eric Chelle's tenure, the Super Eagles then came from a goal down to draw 1-1 with Russia in Moscow on June 6, 2025.

BBC Journalist, Oluwashina Okeleji stated that Super Eagles players have not received their camp allowances or appearance bonuses for these high-profile encounters held in London and Moscow.

He said, “The #Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) didn’t pay the Super Eagles players camp allowance or appearance bonus for three friendly games vs #Ghana, Jamaica, and Russia in London and Moscow.”

The Nigeria Football Federation is yet to comment on the issue, and no Super Eagles player has ascertained the claims made by Oluwashina Okeleji.

Source: https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/report-nff-yet-to-pay-super-eagles-bonus-or-allowance-for-international-friendlies-2025060919512269842

Nigerian football sensation Asisat Oshoala made a striking impression both on and off the pitch as Bay FC secured a 1-0 victory over the Portland Thorns FC.

The match, part of Bay FC's Pride Night celebration was an opportunity for Oshoala to show off her cultural roots with a traditional Nigerian attire before the game.

Oshoala showcased her versatility by appearing in an agbada and trousers fitted snugly at the ankle.

As a Muslim, Oshoala's decision to wear the traditional outfit was also a celebration of the Salah holidays, adding a layer of personal and religious significance to her appearance.

Full gist: https://www.pulsesports.ng/sports-gist/story/oshoala-turns-up-in-style-as-bay-fc-defeat-portland-thorns-2025060818553355533

Ajibade says goodbye to Atletico Madrid

Ajibade, who started the game after scoring both goals for Nigeria's Super Falcons in a 2-0 win against Cameroon in an international friendly just days earlier, was a focal point for Atlético's attack.

However, after Pina's second goal, Ajibade was substituted for Luany in the 75th minute.

Ajibade's performance in the final was marked by a powerful long-range effort in the 63rd minute, brilliantly saved by Barcelona goalkeeper.

This match, her last game for Atlético Madrid, saw her leave the pitch to a standing ovation.

For Barcelona, the victory completed a domestic treble, adding the Copa de la Reina to their Liga F and Supercopa de España titles.

FC Barcelona Femení delivered a commanding performance to clinch the Copa de la Reina title with a 2-0 victory over Atlético Madrid at La Romareda Stadium.

The triumph marked Barcelona's record-extending ninth Copa de la Reina title and also served as a poignant end to Super Falcons captain Rasheedat Ajibade's tenure with Atlético Madrid, as the Nigerian forward prepares to depart the club at the season's end.

The match showcased Barcelona's dominance, with Claudia Pina emerging as the hero of the night.


Pina gave Barcelona the lead in the 24th minute with a precise low strike from the edge of the box.

She grabbed her second goal in the 74th minute, sealing the victory with a composed finish that underscored her clinical form.

Nigeria’s Super Eagles wrapped up their European tour with a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Russia at the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow, thanks to a crucial goal from Toluwase Arokodare.

The match witnessed another challenging outing for Victor Boniface, who struggled to make an impact in the absence of key forwards Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Cyriel Dessers.

Russia dominated the first half and took the lead through an unfortunate own goal by Nigeria’s defender Semi Ajayi.

The home side’s intensity and technical quality put the Eagles under constant pressure, testing their defensive resolve.

However, Nigeria capitalised on a costly mistake from Russia’s goalkeeper in the second half.

A sloppy back pass was seized upon by Arokodare, who came off the bench to replace Boniface.

The striker showed great pressing and composure to slot home his first goal for the Super Eagles in the 71st minute, earning Nigeria a valuable draw and ending Russia’s impressive winning streak.

Despite Boniface’s subdued performance, Nigeria’s resilience and tactical adjustments under coach Eric Chelle helped them secure a positive result against a formidable Russian side.

source: https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/super-sub-arokodare-shows-boniface-the-way-as-nigeria-super-eagles-end-russias-winning-run-2025060619000520113

Raphael Dias Belloli, better known as Raphinha, has been named LaLiga's Player of the Year for 2024/25, capping off an exceptional season with Barcelona.

He helped the team secure the national title with 88 points, scoring 18 goals and providing nine assists.

Former Benfica goalkeeper Jan Oblak was awarded Best Goalkeeper, while Barcelona manager Hansi Flick received the Best Coach award.

Mbappé claimed the Golden Boot and the league's top scorer title with 31 goals, finishing ahead of Sporting CP's Viktor Gyokeres.

Read more: https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/european-dream-turns-into-a-nightmare-english-club-faces-major-problem-2025060616183871458

5 Super Eagles players that needs to convince Eric Chelle against Russia

Victor Boniface
Tolu Arokodare
Olakunle Olusegun
Sodiq Ismaila
Chrisantus Uche

Fresh from winning the Unity Cup, several players that participated in the competition will not feature in this friendly, leaving room for a new set that will wear the Nigerian colours.


But first, here is a list of the squad for the game against Russia

Goalkeepers: Maduka Okoye (Udinese FC, Italy) and Amas Obasogie (Singida Blackstars, Tanzania)

Defenders: Bright Osayi-Samuel (Fenerbahce SK, Turkey), Bruno Onyemaechi (Olympiacos FC, Greece), Oluwasemilogo Ajayi (West Bromwich Albion, England), Igoh Ogbu (SK Slavia Prague, Czech Republic), William Troost-Ekong (Al-Kholood FC, Saudi Arabia), Sodiq Ismaila (Remo Stars, Nigeria), Benjamin Fredericks (Brentford FC, England), Olakunle Olusegun (Krasnodar FC, Russia)

Midfielders: Saviour Isaac (Enugu Rangers, Nigeria), Raphael Onyedika (Club Brugge, Belgium), Fisayo Dele-Bashiru (Lazio FC, Italy), Chrisantus Uche (Getafe CF, Spain), Frank Onyeka (Augsburg FC, Germany), Papa Daniel Mustapha (Niger Tornadoes, Nigeria)

Forwards: Victor Boniface (Bayer Leverkusen, Germany), Simon Moses (FC Nantes, France), Tolu Arokodare (KRC Genk, Belgium).

Source: https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/russia-vs-nigeria-5-super-eagles-players-that-needs-to-convince-eric-chelle-2025060612391263471

Victor Osimhen is at the heart of one of this summer’s biggest transfer sagas, with Galatasaray and Al Hilal locked in a financial tug-of-war for the Nigerian striker.

While Saudi riches loom large, Galatasaray boss Okan Buruk believes the odds still slightly favour the Turkish giants.

Galatasaray hang on to hope over Osimhen’s behaviour

Galatasaray’s head coach, Okan Buruk, has not given up just yet despite a recent bid for Osimhen from Al Hilal.

In a recent interview with beIN SPORTS, the coach revealed a telling sign, saying, “If he had intentions to leave, his behaviour would have been different. I see a 51% chance of him staying.”

That small gesture is now being clung to by fans as a symbol of hope. Osimhen’s record-breaking 37 goals and 7 assists in 41 appearances have made him a fan favourite and one of the club’s most iconic players.

Galatasaray are reportedly ready to trigger a €60–65 million offer and are dangling a four-year, €15 million-per-season contract in front of him, the most lucrative in club history.

Source: https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/51percent-chance-of-him-staying-galatasaray-optimistic-of-keeping-osimhen-despite-al-hilal-bid-2025060518253552111

Real Madrid have made a move to beat French side PSG to the signing of Argentine youngster Franco Mastantuono.

The Spanish side have been drawn to the player and are ready to spend the cash to bring him to Santiago Bernabeu.

His form has unsurprisingly attracted the attention of several European giants, including AC Milan, Manchester United, Chelsea, and PSG.

Full details: https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/real-madrid-looks-to-beat-psg-to-footballs-new-lionel-messi-2025060413433944202

According to Transfer Market, Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Victor Boniface are currently the most valuable Nigerian footballers.

Pulse Sports Nigeria reports that the trio lead the Super Eagles’ market value rankings with multimillion-euro valuations.

Galatasaray icon Victor Osimhen remains Nigeria’s most valuable player with a market value of €70 million, despite Napoli placing his release clause at €75 million.

Close behind Osimhen is Atalanta’s Ademola Lookman, Africa’s current Player of the Year.

The 27-year-old forward has seen his market value soar to €60 million following an impressive 2024/25 season, where he scored 22 goals and assisted seven times in 44 appearances.

Full details: https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/super-eagles-money-bags-victor-osimhen-lookman-and-boniface-named-most-valuable-nigerian-players-2025060408404939808

Little-known former youth international Olakunle Olusegun, the promising winger currently playing for FC Krasnodar in Russia, has opened up about the pride and responsibility he feels after receiving his first call-up to the Nigerian Super Eagles.

Pulse Sports Nigeria reports that the youngster is the latest addition to the Super Eagles following a revised squad by new coach Eric Chelle after the Unity Cup success.

The 23-year-old’s inclusion marks a fresh injection of talent into the squad as Nigeria prepares for their upcoming friendly against Russia.

Olusegun’s rise from the Russian Premier League to the international stage highlights the growing diversity of the Super Eagles squad, which also features young talents like Benjamin Fredricks, who earned his spot following an impressive showing at the Unity Cup final.

Full details: https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/i-can-do-better-new-super-eagles-star-olusegun-ready-to-prove-himself-after-dream-call-up-2025060409244066531

Source: https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/this-chapter-is-over-ronaldo-signals-al-nassr-exit-amid-club-world-cup-rumours-2025052622165685369

Portugal international Cristiano Ronaldo shared a major hint about his future.

Cristiano Ronaldo has seemingly confirmed that he will leave Al Nassr amid rumours that he is in conversation to join a team participating at the Club World Cup.

Ronaldo joined Faris Najd in January 2023 with a record-setting financial package. He is the face of the Saudi Pro League project; however, after two and a half years in the Gulf, he is rumoured to be gearing up for an exit.

What happened

Al Nassr played their last game of the Saudi Pro League season today and despite a goal from Cristiano, they suffered a 3-2 defeat to Al Fateh.

Ronaldo’s goal took his tally to 25 for the season, two more than the next best, Al Ahli’s Ivan Toney, making him the Golden Boot winner for the second consecutive season.

Despite the individual accolade, collective success in terms of a major trophy remains elusive for the Portuguese international, which has led to speculations that he is unhappy at the club and wants to leave.

The 40-year-old’s contract expires next month, and he has stalled on renewing. After the game against Al Fateh, he put out the following statement on his Instagram: “This chapter is over. The story? Still being written. Grateful to all.”

Read complete story:
https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/russia-vs-nigeria-31-players-set-to-face-super-eagles-in-friendly-2025052617504815321

The international friendly between Russia against Nigeria is starting to take shape.

Russia, despite being banned from FIFA and UEFA competitions since the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, has continued to organize friendlies against nations willing to play them, such as Belarus, Kazakhstan, and now Nigeria.

The Russian squad includes notable names like Matvey Safonov, now a goalkeeper for Paris Saint-Germain.

The 31-man roster for the forthcoming June training camp, which includes international friendlies against Belarus and Nigeria, has been confirmed by Russia's head coach, Valery Karpin.

Russia, the hosts of the 2018 FIFA World Cup, will play three-time African champions Nigeria in the match's highlight match on June 6 at Moscow's famous Luzhniki Stadium. The game is set to begin at 18:00 Nigerian time.

Read more:
https://www.pulsesports.ng/football/story/ronaldo-missing-from-real-madrids-top-5-most-decorated-players-2025052608553161733

In a surprising twist to Real Madrid’s legacy, Cristiano Ronaldo, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in football history, does not feature among the club’s top five most decorated players following Luka Modric’s emotional farewell and record-breaking 28th title.

Ronaldo, who spent nine prolific years at Real Madrid (2009–2018), was instrumental in transforming the club into a dominant European force.

He remains Real Madrid’s all-time top scorer with 450 goals in just 438 appearances and won numerous individual accolades, including four Ballon d’Or during his time at the Bernabéu.

According to Madrid Universal, here are Real Madrid’s top 5 most decorated players by titles: Luka Modric with 28 titles, followed by Dani Carvajal with 27 titles.

Others in the top five include Nacho Fernandez with 26 titles, Marcelo with 25 titles and Karim Benzema with 25 titles.

Despite being a central figure in four UEFA Champions League victories during his time, Ronaldo’s Real Madrid trophy count stands at 16, including 4 UEFA Champions League titles, and 2 La Liga titles.