Paradise News

Category: Sports

  • Akwa United shock Enyimba as Rivers United snatch late winner in NPFL match day 23  

    Akwa United pulled off the biggest upset of the Nigeria Premier football League(NPFL) matchday 23 with a 2-1 victory over Enyimba in Uyo, while Rivers United left it late to edge past Lobi Stars.

    Coach Kennedy Boboye finally picked up his first NPFL win on his second return to Akwa United after failing in the last 3 games.

    Olayemi Ogunleye opened the scoring for the hosts in the 28th minute, but Enyimba hit back through Issah Mohammed in the 40th minute.

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    Uche Sebastian, however, struck the winner in the 75th minute to hand The Promise Keepers all three points.

    The victory lifted Akwa United to 18th place with 23 points from 23 matches, leaving them just two points from safety.

    Akwa United team photo during an NPFL match.

    Meanwhile the nine time champions Enyimba stay 8th as their inconsistent NPFL season continues.

    Rivers United Leave It Late, Lobi Stars Drop to Bottom

    Rivers United returned to winning ways with a hard-fought 1-0 home win over Lobi Stars, thanks to Timothy Zachariah’s 88th-minute strike.

    The result moves Findi George’s boys up to third on the table with 38 points from 23 matches, though they remain 10 points behind leaders Remo Stars.

    Lobi Stars, led by Former Nigeria International Daniel Amokachi slipped to the bottom of the NPFL standings following their defeat with 21 points.

    Other NPFL Match day 23 Results

    Abia Warriors cruised to a commanding 3-0 home win over Sunshine Stars, while Niger Tornadoes and Bayelsa United were both held to draws.

    The warriors move to 4th on the table as the dream of continental places led by former NPFL winner Coach Imama Amapakabo.

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    Niger Tornadoes played out a 1-1 stalemate with Plateau United, while Bayelsa United and defending champions Enugu Rangers settled for a goalless draw.

    The flying Antelopes with their first point away from home in the second stanza of the NPFL 2024/2025 season in Yenagoa over Ladan Bosso’s boys, stay 5th on the log with 36 points while Bayelsa United remaining 12th on 29 points.

    Source: The Athletic NG

  • Manchester United set to compete for 20-year-old Bundesliga star

    Manchester United’s midfield has been one of the most inconsistent areas of their squad this season, with constant rotations and a lack of a settled starting few.

    Despite flashes of brilliance from individual players, the midfield has struggled to dominate games, contributing to United’s underwhelming campaign.

    Ruben Amorim has tried different combinations, but the balance of physicality, creativity, and defensive solidity has yet to be fully established.

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    Bruno Fernandes remains the team’s attacking focal point, but the players around him have rotated frequently due to injuries, poor form, and tactical changes.

    Manuel Ugarte, a key signing, has shown promise, but his performances have fluctuated as he adapts to the Premier League’s intensity.

    Kobbie Mainoo has been one of the few bright spots, emerging as a reliable young midfielder, but he lacks an experienced and consistent partner alongside him.

    Christian Eriksen and Casemiro, once integral to United’s midfield, have fallen out of favor under Amorim, with the manager preferring younger, more dynamic options.

    With United looking to reshape their squad and move on from aging or underperforming players, the club is expected to prioritize midfield reinforcements in the summer transfer window.

    Amorim has identified the need for a young, athletic, and technically gifted midfielder to complement his evolving system at Old Trafford.

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    One name that has emerged as a primary target is Bundesliga talent Hugo Larsson, with United set to compete with several Premier League clubs for his signature according to CaughtOffside.

    The 20-year-old Swedish midfielder has impressed in Germany, catching the attention of top European sides due to his composure, passing ability, and work rate.

    United are aware of the growing competition for Larsson, with clubs across the Premier League and beyond monitoring his progress closely.

    With key midfielders set to depart or be phased out, United see Larsson as a long-term investment to help reshape their engine room.

    While talks are still in the early stages, United’s interest is serious, and they could make a move in the summer as they look to reinforce their midfield options.

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    Source: Centred Devils

  • Dele-Bashiru hails Lazio boss Baroni after ending goal drought

    Super Eagles midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru has credited Lazio head coach Marco Baroni for his trust in the squad after ending his seven-game goal drought in Lazio’s emphatic 5-1 victory over Monza.

    The 24-year-old was introduced in the 65th minute, replacing Gustav Isaksen, and made an immediate impact by scoring Lazio’s fifth goal just before full-time.

    Racing onto a through ball down the left, he unleashed a powerful left-footed shot into the roof of the net from a tight angle, sealing a dominant performance for the home side at the Stadio Olimpico.

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    After the match, Dele-Bashiru reflected on Lazio’s 14th Serie A win of the season and praised the unity within the team under Baroni’s leadership.

     “A perfect week for me. I gave myself a wonderful moment, but the team’s victory is even more important.

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    There is a great group here, it’s the ideal environment. The coach believes in everyone,” he told Lazio’s official media, as quoted by Solo La Lazio.  

    He also shared the story behind his goal celebration.

    “My celebration? It started with Noslin while playing FIFA. The song the fans dedicated to me? It’s something I really enjoy. The coach and the team help me a lot; I’ve improved physically and tactically.”  

    Photo by Getty images

    With three goals in 15 Serie A appearances this season, Dele-Bashiru will be eager to build on his momentum as Lazio continue their pursuit of a top-four finish.

    Source: The Athletic NG

  • Barcelona wonderkid REJECTED Manchester United project

    Manchester United were active in the January transfer window, making crucial squad adjustments as they attempted to reshape their team for the second half of the season.

    With a difficult campaign unfolding, Ruben Amorim and his staff focused on both additions and departures to improve squad balance and reduce the wage bill.

    The club saw high-profile exits, with Marcus Rashford joining Aston Villa on loan and Antony moving to Real Betis in search of more regular game time.

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    United also strengthened their squad, bringing in Patrick Dorgu from Lecce for £29.9 million, while young defender Ayden Heaven arrived from Arsenal’s U21s setup.

    However, despite making key moves, United were unable to secure one of their top midfield targets, with their approach ultimately falling short.

    The club has been looking to refresh its midfield options, especially with Christian Eriksen expected to leave as a free agent this summer and Casemiro no longer a regular starter.

    Roma were interested in Casemiro in January, and there is a strong possibility he will be loaned out in June as United plan for a long-term midfield rebuild.

    With an emphasis on younger, high-potential talents, United identified a key target from Barcelona’s ranks and attempted to lure him to Old Trafford.

    United were reportedly willing to submit a significant offer, but their approach was swiftly turned down by the player himself.

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    Fermin Lopez rejected the chance to join United in January, despite their strong interest and a potential £58 million bid according to The Mail.

    The 21-year-old midfielder made it clear that he had no interest in a move, prioritizing his future at Barcelona instead.

    Lopez recently signed a contract extension keeping him at the club until 2029, with a massive £416.5 million release clause.

    He is determined to fight for his place under new manager Hansi Flick, even as he faces stiff competition in a crowded midfield.

    Despite this setback, United could revisit their interest in Lopez in the summer, though prying him away from Barcelona will not be easy.

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    Source: Centred Devils

  • Manchester United receive massive boost in elite wonderkids signing

    Manchester United’s summer transfer strategy is taking shape, with the club prioritizing young, high-potential talents as part of a long-term squad rebuild.

    With Ruben Amorim now leading the club’s vision, United’s recruitment team is focused on signing players who fit the manager’s high-intensity, tactical system.

    Amorim has made it clear that his squad needs a refresh, and that means bringing in young, energetic players who can adapt to his demanding style of play.

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    United’s financial situation means they must be strategic in their transfer dealings, identifying future stars rather than splashing out on expensive, aging signings.

    The club’s inability to land big-money targets in the January window was a clear indicator that smart investments will be key this summer.

    With several first-team stars potentially leaving, including Christian Eriksen, Casemiro, and Marcus Rashford, United are preparing for a major reshaping of the squad.

    The focus will be on young players with high resale value and long-term potential—exactly the type of signings that can help build a sustainable future.

    United’s strategy has already seen them linked with emerging talents across Europe, and now, the club has received a major boost in the race for one of England’s most promising prospects.

    The Red Devils have been monitoring this player for some time, and new developments could make his signing more realistic than ever.

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    The wonderkid in question is Sunderland’s Chris Rigg, who is now expected to be available for a transfer this summer.

    The highly-rated 17-year-old attacking midfielder is drawing interest from top clubs, including Liverpool and Arsenal, but United are firmly in the race.

    CaughtOffside sources indicate that Sunderland are prepared to let Rigg leave, with a price tag set at around £25 million.

    United see Rigg as a potential long-term midfield asset, especially as the club prepares to overhaul its squad under Amorim’s leadership.

    With competition from multiple Premier League and European clubs, United will need to act fast if they want to secure one of the brightest young talents in English football.

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    Source: Centred Devils

  • Super Eagles forward Emmanuel Dennis names Nigerian Legend as his inspiration at Blackburn

    Super Eagles forward Emmanuel Dennis has expressed his admiration for Nigerian football legend Yakubu Aiyegbeni and hopes to emulate his success at Blackburn Rovers.

    Dennis, 27, joined Blackburn on loan from Nottingham Forest and made his debut in their 2-0 FA Cup loss to Wolverhampton Wanderers.

    It was his first appearance for club or country since April 2024, when he last featured for Watford.

    Photo by Getty images

    Despite the disappointing result, the Nigerian striker is eager to make his mark at Ewood Park and help the team achieve success.

     “I am very hungry. I really want to play football and hope that we are going to have great moments together,” Dennis told *RoversTV.

     “I am really excited to be back (playing). I will give my all to the club and I really appreciate them bringing me here. I am going to give them everything. It is a good time (to join) because we are in a very good position in the table and playing good football.  

    “Before coming here, I analysed how they play and I like it. I hope I can add something to the team and we can have good times together.”  

    Emmanuel Dennis has expressed his admiration for Nigerian football legend Yakubu Aiyegbeni and hopes to emulate his success at Blackburn.

    Yakubu is the third highest scorer in the history of the Super Eagles

    Dennis grew up watching Yakubu, who had an impressive spell at Blackburn during the 2010/11 season, scoring 17 goals in 30 appearances.

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    The former Club Brugge forward is thrilled to follow in the footsteps of one of Nigeria’s most prolific strikers.

     “Yakubu played here and growing up, I watched him play. It is a club I am very familiar with from growing up in Nigeria. I was really pleased they wanted me, I wanted to come.  

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     “He scored a lot of goals, so many! Yakubu is really big in Nigeria and African football. His contribution, playing in the Premier League, what a guy! He inspired me in some ways because I watched games and he was a really good player.”  

    Dennis played 66 minutes at Ewood Park but couldn’t prevent Blackburn’s exit from the FA Cup, as first-half goals from João Gomes and Matheus Cunha secured Wolves’ spot in the next round.

    Source: The Athletic NG

  • Manchester United set to evaluate exciting Portuguese wonderkid

    Manchester United’s transfer strategy is evolving under Ruben Amorim, with a renewed emphasis on scouting young talent that fits the manager’s high-intensity system.

    Since taking charge, Amorim has worked closely with United’s recruitment team to identify players who can thrive in his tactical setup, prioritizing youth, versatility, and work rate.

    The club’s approach has shifted from targeting marquee signings to securing promising talents who can develop into long-term assets at Old Trafford.

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    With a squad overhaul in motion, United are actively assessing potential additions while also working to streamline their roster for the future.

    One area of focus has been the wing positions, where the club has an excess of options but lacks consistency and end product.

    The departures of Marcus Rashford and Antony on loan have already opened space in the squad, while additional changes could be made in the summer window.

    With several wingers potentially making way, United have turned their attention to identifying young, high-potential attackers who fit Amorim’s vision.

    The club’s scouting efforts have naturally led them back to Sporting CP, where Amorim previously managed and built one of Portugal’s most exciting squads.

    United have already been linked with several players from the Portuguese league, and now, a new name has emerged on their radar.

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    United officials were present at Sporting’s game against Porto on Friday to watch Geovany Quenda according to @Record_Portugal via X.

    The 17-year-old winger is regarded as one of Sporting’s most exciting young prospects, drawing comparisons to top Portuguese attackers from past generations.

    United are not rushing a decision but will continue to monitor Quenda closely in the coming weeks.

    The club is set to evaluate the youngster again in a high-profile test when Sporting face Borussia Dortmund on Tuesday.

    As United plan for the future, Quenda’s performances could determine whether he becomes a serious target in the upcoming transfer windows.

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    Source: Centred Devils

  • Lille coach hails Nigerian striker after Scoring on Ligue 1 debut 

    Lille head coach Bruno Genesio has commended Nigerian striker Chuba Akpom following his goal against Le Havre on his Ligue 1 debut.

    Despite the Nigerian striker’s late strike, Lille fell short, losing 2-1 at the Decathlon Arena.

    Akpom, 29, struggled for game time during his spell at Ajax and opted for a January loan move to Lille in search of regular football.

    READ MORE:akwa-united-shock-enyimba-as-rivers-united-snatch-late-winner-in-npfl-match-day-23

    He first featured for the club in a Coupé de France match against Dunkerque before making his league debut.

    Introduced at halftime, Akpom found the net deep into stoppage time in the 97th minute. However, his effort came too late to alter the outcome, as Lille had already conceded twice before his introduction.

    Akpom born in London to Nigerian parents becomes the 3rd Nigerian to play in the Ligue 1 for Lille after Victor Osimhen and Vincent Enyeama.

    Akpom celebrating his debut goal

    Following the match, Genesio expressed his satisfaction with Akpom’s performance while highlighting the need for him to adapt to the team’s playing style.

    “Scoring is always important for a striker, and Chuba showed great awareness to take his chance,” Genesio told Le Petit Lillois.

    “He still needs to adjust to our system and integrate certain tactical aspects, but this goal will help his confidence and add depth to our attacking options for the rest of the season.”  

    The Lille boss also acknowledged the contributions of Ethan Mbappé and Ayyoub Bouaddi, who came off the bench alongside Akpom but admitted that it was a difficult situation to influence the game.

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    Currently, Lille sit fifth in the Ligue 1 standings, five points behind second-placed Marseille, while Paris Saint-Germain maintain a commanding 13-point lead at the top.

    Source: The Athletic NG

  • “I never wanted to leave – Dessers opens up on Rangers future

    Super Eagles striker Cyriel Dessers has dismissed speculations about a potential exit from Rangers, insisting he was never looking to leave but only wanted more game time.

    At the start of the year, Dessers found himself struggling for minutes as Hamza Igamane took over as Rangers’ first-choice striker. This led to transfer rumors, with clubs from Serie A and Ligue 1 reportedly making inquiries about his availability.

    The Nigerian forward, who had been linked with a move last summer, once again attracted interest in January. However, despite the speculation, he remained focused on proving his worth at Ibrox.

    Dessers: “I Never Wanted to Leave – I Just Wanted to Play”

    Speaking to Daily Record, Dessers admitted that while offers came in, his goal was always to stay and fight for his place in the team.

    “At the start of the month, I wasn’t playing much, and as a striker who had already hit double figures, naturally, there was interest.”

    “Some clubs reached out to my agent asking if a move was possible. But I spoke with Nils Koppen a few times, and we had good conversations about the situation. Three weeks later, I’m still here, and I’m very happy. I never wanted to leave—I just wanted to play.”

    January Goal of the Month Winner

    Dessers’ resurgence has not gone unnoticed. The Nigerian forward has been in red-hot form, contributing six goals and one assist in his last five games.

    His efforts were recently recognized as he won Rangers’ January Goal of the Month award for his stunning strike against Manchester United in the UEFA Europa League.

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    In that game at Old Trafford, Dessers used his strength to outmuscle Harry Maguire, controlled the ball brilliantly on his left side, and then swept a clinical finish into the bottom corner.

    Despite Rangers losing 2-1, his goal stood out as a moment of brilliance, earning him the club’s top individual accolade for January.

    Back in Form and Looking Ahead

    Since the close of the transfer window, Dessers has rediscovered his best form, and his performances have helped him regain the trust of coach Philippe Clement.

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    With 29 months left on his contract, Dessers looks set to stay at Ibrox unless unforeseen circumstances arise. If he continues his fine form and helps Rangers secure silverware, he could even earn a contract extension.

    Source: The Athletic NG

  • Ruben Amorim holds “full training session” after Leicester City game


    Image Credits: Getty Images

    Despite Manchester United getting through to the next round of the FA Cup with a 2-1 win over Leicester, Ruben Amorim was not happy with the performance that got them the result.

    Leicester grabbed the the first goal of the game as Bobby De Cordova-Reid connected with a rebound and headed home the loose ball.

    Joshua Zirkzee managed to score an equaliser only four minutes after taking to the pitch, with Harry Maguire grabbing the winner in the 93rd minute.

    However, speaking after the game, Amorim commented: “I cannot focus just on saving the season or the momentum with a cup. It’s not the way I see football, it’s not the way I see Manchester United.”

    He continued: “I’m not thinking about the end of the season because the final is at the end of the season. I don’t care about that, I care about the moment and the moment is not good enough.

    “A good result. We move forward to the next stage. We have a week to prepare, but today was not a good day.”

    The sentiments were also echoed by United legend Roy Keane, who said: “United got out of jail. Don’t be fooled by it.”

    He continued: “You have to praise them – Manchester United are in the next round of the cup – but if they keep performing like that… the performance itself was nowhere near good enough.

    “From United’s point of view, is this what it’s come to? Nowhere near good enough. United aren’t even doing the basics right.”

    Now, in a bid to improve on their recent showing, the club have confirmed that some of their stars took part in a full training session at Old Trafford after the game finished.

    Ruben Amorim holds post-game training session

    Taking to X, Manchester United posted photos looking across the pitch towards the Sir Alex Ferguson stand, showing some of the players engaging in the session.

    Players like Rasmus Hojlund and Toby Collyer appear to be some of the stars taking part with the club captioning it “Working for the badge” adding: “Some of the United squad completed a full training session at Old Trafford following the full-time whistle on Friday.”

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    Source: Centred Devils