Sports

Key Players at Risk of Suspension Ahead of AFCON Qualifiers

Published

6 days ago

October 11, 2024

The Nigerian national team is facing the potential loss of four crucial players for their upcoming second leg of the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Libya. Star forwards Ademola Lookman and Samuel Chukwueze, alongside defenders Calvin Bassey and Ola Aina, are in jeopardy of suspension due to the accumulation of yellow cards.

According to CAF regulations, players who receive two yellow cards in different matches during the AFCON tournament or CAF Champions League face a one-match suspension. This rule extends to their qualifying matches as well. If any of the aforementioned players receive a yellow card during the match against Libya at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, they will be sidelined for the second leg of the double-header clash.

It’s important to note that Lookman and Bassey both received yellow cards during Nigeria’s 3-0 victory over Benin last month, while Aina and Chukwueze were cautioned in the 0-0 draw against Rwanda in Kigali.

Despite having a squad of 23 players to choose from, the absence of these four could significantly impact Nigeria’s quest for three points in this crucial match as they aim to secure a spot in the 2025 AFCON tournament. The Super Eagles are keen to avoid any further disciplinary issues as they prepare for this pivotal encounter.

Sports

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

Published

7 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

7 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

7 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.