Paradise News

Category: Sports

  • FIFA suspends FECOFOOT indefinitely—World Cup hopes in jeopardy

    FIFA has officially suspended the Congolese Football Federation (FECOFOOT) with immediate effect due to what it describes as “a particularly serious situation of undue interference by third parties” in the federation’s affairs.

    This, according to FIFA, is a clear violation of FECOFOOT’s obligations under the FIFA Statutes.

    The decision, taken in consultation with the Confederation of African Football (CAF), follows two FIFA/CAF missions to Brazzaville, which assessed the crisis within the Congolese football governing body.

    Congo’s World Cup Campaign at Risk

    Congo’s national team, the Red Devils, are part of Group E in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers alongside Morocco, Tanzania, Zambia, Niger Republic, and Eritrea. Their next scheduled match is an away fixture against Tanzania, but it may not take place unless FIFA lifts the suspension before then.

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    The Red Devils’ qualification campaign had already suffered a blow after their humiliating 6-0 defeat at home to Morocco last June, and this latest development puts their World Cup hopes in serious doubt.

    What the Suspension Means for Congolese Football

    With immediate effect, FECOFOOT loses all its membership rights as defined in Article 13 of FIFA’s statutes. This means:

    • The Congolese national team and club sides are banned from participating in international competitions.
    • FECOFOOT representatives are barred from FIFA-related events and decision-making processes.
    • Congolese clubs are ineligible to compete in CAF inter-club competitions, though none had reached this season’s quarter-finals.

    Conditions for Lifting the Suspension

    FIFA has outlined specific conditions that must be met before the suspension can be lifted:

    1. Full control of FECOFOOT headquarters, the Ignié Technical Centre, and all other facilities must be returned to the federation.
    2. Any attempts to alter the signatories of FECOFOOT’s bank accounts must cease, and control must be restored to the signatories recognized by FIFA and CAF.
    3. Any legal or administrative decisions granting an ad hoc committee control over FECOFOOT must be declared invalid or set aside.
    4. The Congolese authorities must ensure FECOFOOT can manage its affairs independently, without undue influence from third parties.

    READ MORE: Aruna Quadri crashes out of Singapore Smash 2025 after tough battle with Calderano

    Congo had already failed to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, and with this suspension in place, their future in international football remains uncertain. Unless FIFA’s conditions are met, the nation’s footballing activities will remain on hold indefinitely.

    Source: The Athletic NG

  • Manchester United defender gets national call up


    Image Credits: Getty Images

    A Manchester United defender might be on the brink of their first international call-up as they’re approached with an interesting opportunity.

    United have a wealth of teenage talent in their ranks at the moment, especially in defence.

    Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven have joined the club this year at only 18 years old, with Yoro already called a “generational talent” and Heaven looking likely to be handed his debut tonight against Leicester.

    However outside of this duo, Ruben Amorim has the likes of Harry Amass, Godwill Kukonki and James Overy at his disposal too.

    Now, 17-year-old Godwill Kukonki has been approached with the opportunity to make his international debut.

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    Godwill Kukonki approached for international duty

    Godwill Kukonki
    Image Credits: Getty Images

    Manchester Evening News has reported that despite being born in England, the centre-back has been approached by DR Congo’s national team about his future on the international stage.

    The youngster hasn’t yet been called up to any England youth squad, and would be eligible to play for Congo, hence the approach, however it’s unknown how he will respond.

    Kukonki has already impressed Amorim, making his way into the senior team’s bench for Premier League fixture with Arsenal, Newcastle and Southampton, however is yet to make his senior debut.

    Speaking about the defender back in November, Amorim commented: “He’s 16, but he impressed me a lot, so it’s also a sign to the youth players that they can be here.”

    He continued: “If something happened with the first-team, they have to step up and I think he’s ready, he’s very adult to handle the Premier League’s demands.”

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    Source: Centred Devils

  • Sir Jim Ratcliffe hits new low since becoming Manchester United owner


    Image Credits: Getty Images

    Sir Jim Ratcliffe has had a rough time of it since buying 27.7% of Manchester United to control the football operations at the club.

    With the club in financial difficulties, the INEOS owner has been carrying out a huge range of cost-cutting exercises to try and ease the pressures.

    Whilst these plans have been praised by financial institutions like UBS who run the New York Stock Exchange, they have been heavily criticised as controversial by United fans.

    Ratcliffe has sanctioned the removal of concessions from ticket prices, ended Sir Alex Ferguson’s multi-million-pound role as the club’s global ambassador and looked at cutting funding to several affiliated groups.

    However, now INEOS have suffered yet another low, thankfully for United fans, unrelated to The Red Devils.

    Unfortunately for Sir Jim Ratcliffe, this disappointment was thanks to one of his other clubs OGC Nice.

    On Wednesday, the French side were knocked out of the Coupe de France by fourth-tier club Stade Briochin.

    Despite holding fifth place in Ligue 1, the French side were recently eliminated from the Europa League as they finished 35th of 36 in the group phase of the competition.

    Now, they’ve been knocked out of yet another tournament, unfortunately being the second time the club have been knocked out of the Coupe de France by a non-Ligue 1 team since INEOS took over in 2019.

    Nice only have Ligue 1 to concentrate on now, with the side only a point behind Lille and three behind third-place Monaco, with the top four heading to the Champions League.

    However, frustrations have previously been brewing within the club about the INEOS ownership.

    Back in 2023, then club captain Dante who was on the bench for the most recent loss, commented: “I think at some point you have to be clear in what you’re saying.”

    He continued: “To maintain a project, maybe you need to speak less about objectives and work in silence to create an environment of competitors.

    “Because the expectation is even bigger, and then after, people are frustrated.”

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    Source: Centred Devils

  • Aruna Quadri crashes out of Singapore Smash 2025 after tough battle with Calderano

    Nigeria’s Aruna Quadri suffered a disappointing 3-1 defeat to Brazil’s Hugo Calderano in the second round of the Men’s Singles at the Singapore Smash 2025, ending his tournament hopes earlier than expected.

    Quadri started strong, taking the first game 11-8, but Calderano mounted a comeback, winning the next three games 11-8, 11-9, and 11-6 to secure his place in the third round. With this win, Calderano now leads their last four encounters 3-1.

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    Speaking after the match, Calderano acknowledged the Nigerian’s dangerous playing style.

    “I always knew Aruna was a very dangerous player. He can come back from 2-0 down, and he showed that again today. Everyone knows how capable he is of winning these kinds of matches. It was another valuable experience playing against him,” Calderano said.

    In the Women’s Singles, Egypt’s Hana Goda also exited the tournament in the second round after a tough 3-1 loss to China’s Man Kuai (11-1, 5-11, 11-1, 12-10).

    READ MORE:Alex Iwobi snubs Messi and Ronaldo, names unbelievable Super Eagles legend as his GOAT

    Other Egyptian players, including Omar Assar, Youssef Abdelaziz, Mohamed El-Beiali, Dina Meshref, and Mariam Alhodaby, also suffered early eliminations, failing to advance past the first round of the $1.5 million event.

    Despite his early exit, Quadri isn’t dwelling on the loss. He is set to compete at the WTT Champions in China next month but will first focus on defending his title at the 2025 African Cup in Tunisia later this month.

    Source: The Athletic NG

  • Manchester United given huge opportunity to sign legendary striker


    Image Credits: GETTY IMAGES

    Manchester United are in desperate need of a reliable striker.

    Their investment in youthful duo Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee has not paid off.

    Hojlund arrived with high expectations but has struggled physically and lacks sharpness.

    The 22-year-old has only netted two goals in the Premier League this season, with talks circulating that he could leave the club.

    Zirkzee has also failed to make an impact, leaving United short of firepower.

    Step forward Harry Kane, a proven world-class striker.

    The 31-year-old is in incredible form for Bayern Munich this season.

    He has 33 goals and seven assists in 40 appearances for club and country.

    United have been linked with Kane for years, dating back to the Haaland saga.

    Manchester City moved for Erling Haaland, while United failed to land Kane.

    Now, an opportunity has emerged that could change everything.

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    The Telegraph reports Harry Kane will soon have a £54m release clause.

    That price for a player of Kane’s caliber is simply too good to turn down.

    He is a striker who transforms a team single-handedly with his goals and creativity.

    Kane has shown no signs of decline and could still dominate for years.

    Like Cristiano Ronaldo and Zlatan Ibrahimovic, he has the ability to thrive into his late 30s.

    However, there are concerns that United fans may not be fully on board.

    If Kane suffers a major injury, it could mark the start of his decline.

    At 31, United would be taking a gamble on his long-term durability.

    Despite this, his incredible goalscoring knack makes him an elite option.

    Kane’s spell in Germany makes a Premier League return more feasible.

    United’s lack of quality up front makes this a deal worth serious consideration.

    If they want a striker who guarantees goals, Kane is the obvious choice.

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    Source: Centred Devils

  • “Jay-Jay Okocha will always be my GOAT” – Alex Iwobi

    Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi has once again hailed his uncle, Nigerian football legend Jay-Jay Okocha, as the greatest footballer of all time.

    Iwobi, who currently plays for Fulham, has never hidden his admiration for Okocha, whose dazzling dribbling and creativity left a lasting mark on African and European football.

    Speaking on the Is This Seat Taken podcast, Iwobi expressed his deep respect for his uncle, emphasizing Okocha’s influence both on and off the pitch.

    “In sports? Forever my uncle, Jay-Jay Okocha. I have to shout him out all the time—on and off the field,” Iwobi said.

    Okocha, renowned for his exceptional dribbling and playmaking, is widely regarded as one of Africa’s greatest footballers. His career included unforgettable stints with Nigeria’s Super Eagles, Paris Saint-Germain, and Bolton Wanderers.

    READ MORE:Kpaboro Arierhri explains why he Chose Lillestrøm SK over offers from top European clubs

    Okocha had 73 caps for the Nigeria national team between 1993 and 2006, scoring 14 goals, and was a member of three FIFA World Cup squads and five AFCON team (1994,2000,2002, 2004 and 2006)

    Jay Jay playing for the Super Eagles during the 1994 FIFA World Cup.

    He won the AFCON title in 1994 and helped the dream team to Olympic gold medal in 1996.

    Having grown up watching Okocha, Iwobi credits him as a major influence on his playing style and professional attitude.

    “I used to watch his matches and training sessions. He’s the one who really taught me how to express myself,” Iwobi shared.

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    “And off the pitch, he’s always advising me—how to be professional, manage my money, stay humble, and remain grounded. He will always be my idol,” the former Arsenal star added.

    Iwobi started his professional career at Arsenal before moving to Everton in 2019. In 2023, he joined Fulham, where he continues to impress under manager Marco Silva.

    Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi has once again hailed his uncle, legendary Jay-Jay Okocha, as the greatest footballer of all time.

    Iwobi playing for the Super Eagles during AFCON 2024

    Since making his international debut in 2015, Iwobi has earned over 80 caps and scored 10 goals for Nigeria, cementing his role as a key player for the Super Eagles.

    Source: The Athletic NG

  • Manchester United confirm extent of Lisandro Martinez injury


    Image Credits: GETTY IMAGES

    Ruben Amorim has just received a massive blow to his squad selection in the form of Lisandro Martinez and his recent injury scare.

    The Argentine defender was stretchered off in the 82nd minute of Manchester United’s loss to Crystal Palace last weekend.

    Initially looking like an issue with his knee, the centre-back was seen crying as he was supported off the pitch by the medical team.

    Speaking after the game, Amorim commented: “Licha is really important for us.”

    He continued: “Not just as a football player but as a character, especially in this hard moment. Now it’s time to help Licha like he’s doing for so long.

    “I think it’s a bad situation. Let’s wait to assess things with the doctor but I think it’s a serious situation.”

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    It has now been confirmed by the club on X that Lisandro Martinez will be out for remaining of the season after injury to his cruciate ligament.

    Which only comes as a huge loss to United, who are currently struggling for performances and results.

    It was initially reported by Argentine reporter Gaston Edul that Martinez would be out for rest of the season.

    But having received official club confirmation, fans will undoubtedly fear the worst as to how United will look without the ‘Butcher.’

    Martinez’ ability to play comfortably out the back was a huge tool for United in initiating attacks.

    The Red Devils don’t necessarily have a like-for-like replacement, either.

    Luke Shaw may well fill in at left centre-back, once the Englishman comes back to full fitness.

    However, no other player can currently fill Martinez’s void.

    Huge loss for the Reds.

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    Source: Centred Devils

  • Ayden Heaven Manchester United debut details revealed


    Image Credits: Manchester United

    Manchester United’s defensive crisis could see new signing Ayden Heaven make his first-team debut sooner than expected.

    Lisandro Martinez has suffered a torn ACL, a devastating blow for United as they push for a strong finish this season.

    The Argentine defender sustained the injury during the 2-0 defeat to Crystal Palace on Sunday.

    This leaves Ruben Amorim with limited options at the back, increasing the likelihood of Heaven stepping in.

    According to The Athletic, Heaven may now feature in the first team earlier than initially planned.

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    The 18-year-old joined United from Arsenal in February, becoming the club’s first signing under Amorim.

    Manchester United confirmed the deal on February 1, bringing in the highly-rated central defender.

    Heaven had previously made his Arsenal debut in October 2024, appearing in the EFL Cup against Preston.

    United moved swiftly after he rejected a contract offer from Arsenal in December.

    The young centre-back spoke of his excitement after completing his move to Old Trafford.

    “I am incredibly proud to join Manchester United,” said Heaven.

    “I’ll be giving everything to continue my development and become the best player that I can be.”

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    Technical director Jason Wilcox also praised the defender upon his arrival.

    “He is already an extremely talented defender who is ready to join our first-team squad,” Wilcox stated.

    With Martinez now ruled out for the season, Heaven could soon make his senior debut.

    His path to the first team may come even quicker than initially anticipated.

    United’s squad is already thin, and Amorim may turn to the teenager to bolster his defensive options.

    After swapping Arsenal for Manchester, Heaven could now have the perfect opportunity to shine.

    The Red Devils will want to ensure that young players aren’t thrown into the deep end, in the long-term.

    Young talents need the right environment to thrive, surrounded by top experienced players which United are in the process of building.

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    Source: Centred Devils

  • Manchester United defenders to make debut against Leicester City


    Image Credits: Getty Images

    Manchester United are all set to face Leicester City in the FA Cup Round of 16 tomorrow night, Friday 7th February 2025.

    United are the current FA Cup title holders, having won the tournament last season, securing the club a spot in the Europa League.

    Now, they’re set to face off with The Foxes, who are now manager by Manchester United legend and former interim coach Ruud van Nistelrooy.

    Ruben Amorim arrived at Old Trafford in November, leading to van Nistelrooy and the rest of Erik ten Hag’s coaching staff getting the boot.

    Now, the pair will face off, hoping to seal a spot in the next round.

    However, the fixture might not be focused on the pair of managers, but rather on a pair of debuts for the United squad.

    During the winter transfer window, The Red Devils signed Ayden Heaven and Patrick Dorgu, who could both take to the pitch this week.

    Dorgu was recruited to fill the whole on the left flank thank had been left open by Luke Shaw’s continuous injuries, with Diogo Dalot covering the position.

    As such it’s expected that Dorgu can hit the ground running and assert himself as the primary left-wing-back at the club.

    However, with Lisandro Martinez now ruled out for most of the year with a cruciate ligament tear, Amorim could call on Heaven to take his place or we may see the 18-year-old take to the field off the bench.

    As such, both of United’s new signings could have their experience of walking out at Old Trafford extremely soon.

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    Source: Centred Devils

  • Juventus reject Manchester United bid for star player


    Image Credits: getty images

    During the winter transfer window, Manchester United managed to secure two signings despite being allocated no transfer funds going into the window.

    The Red Devils finally secured a left-back signing in Patrick Dorgu, bringing the Danish international from Lecce in Serie A

    Dorgu has been playing on the right wing for Lecce despite being a defender, showing off his versatility, especially in both attack and defence, making him perfect for Amorim’s system.

    Alongside him, United signed Arsenal youngster Ayden Heaven, who may get his debut much sooner than planned thanks to Lisandro Martinez’s ACL tear.

    However, it’s now emerged that United nearly made another signing as the market came to a close.

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    Juventus reject bid for Douglas Luiz

    Sports journalist Nicolò Schira has reported that United actually made a last-minute bid to Juventus for midfielder Douglas Luiz.

    Whilst the full details of the bid are still unknown, it was reportedly for a loan move for the rest of the season, including an option to buy.

    However, The Old Lady ultimately rejected the bid, leaving United without their target midfielder.

    Luiz arrived at Juve from Aston Villa last summer, however since then has been primarily used off the bench.

    Unfortunately, the Brazilian has missed 11 games between October and December due to muscular fatigue, making 19 appearances so far this season averaging at 34 minutes per game.

    This is a massive step back for the 26-year-old who was a relied-upon member of Villa’s first team, grabbing ten goals and ten assists in 53 games the year before.

    Now, Luiz will be continuing his season with Juve rather than at Old Trafford, but it’s an interesting thought for fans to consider what might have been.

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    Source: Centred Devils