Sports

Osimhen Faces Mask Ban Ahead of Turkish Super Lig Derby

Published

4 weeks ago

September 19, 2024

Victor Osimhen may have to remove his protective face mask for Galatasaray’s upcoming Turkish Super Lig derby against Fenerbahçe, managed by José Mourinho. The match, a major highlight in Turkey’s football calendar, sees both teams battling for top position.

Osimhen, who joined Galatasaray amid high expectations, has worn the mask since a serious facial injury sustained while at Napoli. The injury, caused by a collision with Inter Milan’s Milan Skriniar, required surgery involving six plates and 18 screws.

Recent reports suggest Fenerbahçe fans are urging the Turkish Football Federation to ban Osimhen’s mask, citing potential risks to opponents. This controversy intensified following Galatasaray’s 4-1 win over Çaykur Rizespor, where Osimhen’s mask was implicated in a collision that resulted in Rizespor’s Khusniddin Alikulov suffering a concussion.

Former referee Fırat Aydınus commented that if an accessory endangers players’ health, referees can mandate its removal. The debate centers around whether the mask’s metal parts contributed to Alikulov’s injury.

Despite the controversy, Osimhen remains a key player for Galatasaray. His previous record against Mourinho includes three goals in six matches. As the derby approaches, Osimhen’s availability and impact will be closely watched by fans and pundits alike.

Sports

CAF Confirms Morocco as Host for 2024 Women’s Champions League

Published

12 hours ago

October 16, 2024

Online Editor

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially designated Morocco as the host for the 2024 CAF Women’s Champions League finals. The tournament will take place from November 9 to November 23, as announced on CAF’s official website.

Morocco previously hosted the last edition of this prestigious competition. Among the eight teams competing this year is Nigeria’s champions, Edo Queens. The current title holders are Mamelodi Sundowns from South Africa.

The tournament offers significant financial incentives, with winners receiving $400,000 and runners-up taking home $250,000.

Sports

Messi Matches Ronaldo’s Record with Hat-Trick Against Bolivia

Published

12 hours ago

October 16, 2024

Online Editor

Argentina captain Lionel Messi has equaled Cristiano Ronaldo’s record of 10 international hat-tricks after scoring three times in a dominant 6-0 victory against Bolivia in a 2026 World Cup qualifier.

In addition to his goals, the 37-year-old forward also provided two assists, showcasing his playmaking abilities. With this win, Argentina solidifies its position in the South American qualifiers, currently leading the table three points ahead of second-placed Colombia and six points clear of their arch-rivals Brazil.

On the same evening, Ronaldo’s Portugal faced Scotland in the UEFA Nations League but was held to a frustrating 0-0 draw, leaving the superstar visibly upset post-match.

Sports

Mourinho Targets Barcelona’s Ansu Fati for January Transfer to Fenerbahce

Published

12 hours ago

October 16, 2024

Online Editor

Fenerbahce manager, Jose Mourinho, is reportedly planning a January transfer move for Barcelona forward Ansu Fati. After spending last season on loan at Brighton in the Premier League, Fati, now 21, returned to Barcelona but has struggled for game time under new coach Hansi Flick.

Once considered a potential successor to Lionel Messi, Fati’s limited opportunities at Barça have fueled speculation about a possible departure. According to *AS*, Mourinho is keen to bring the Spain international to the Turkish league, offering him the chance for regular football at Fenerbahce.

Fenerbahce’s sporting director, Mario Branco, is expected to initiate discussions with Fati’s representatives soon, confident that the promise of consistent playing time will help secure the forward’s move.