Sports

Chelsea’s Silva targets another World Cup, Premier League success

Published

4 years ago

September 22, 2020

London, Sept. 22, 2020 (Reuters/Nigerian News 24) Chelsea’s new Brazilian defender, Thiago Silva said the desire to play at another World Cup and win trophies in England had prompted him to seek a fresh challenge in his mid-30s.

The former Paris St Germain centre back, who is 36 on Tuesday, signed a year-long deal plus the option of a further 12 months at Chelsea and said he could not wait to get started.

“Normally, at 35-36… players leave the Premier League but I’m doing things the other way around,” he told Chelsea’s website.

“It helps when you’re welcomed so warmly, particularly by a coach (Frank Lampard) who played until relatively recently, because in football there are strong preconceptions regarding the age of players.”

Silva, who has 89 caps for Brazil and has played in three World Cups, will be 38 when Qatar hosts the next edition in 2022.

“The prospect of playing at the next World Cup is another thing that really drives me. I’ll be more or less 38 by the time and I’m hugely motivated to be in good shape for it,” Silva said.

“What motivates me, day by day, is the hunger to win… everything within my reach.

“Coming to the Premier League, my main goal is to win the league title and I’m certain we’ll be fighting for that every step of the way,“he said.

Silva missed Chelsea’s opening two league games, including Sunday’s 2-0 defeat by champions Liverpool. They visit promoted West Bromwich Albion on Saturday.

Sports

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

Published

5 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

5 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

5 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.