Paradise News

Tag: General Sports

  • Galatasaray eyes Chinese investment to secure Osimhen

    Galatasaray quest to keep Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen beyond his loan spell has taken an ambitious turn, with reports indicating the club is seeking financial backing from Chinese investors to fund a permanent transfer.

    Currently on loan from Napoli, Osimhen has become a key figure for the Turkish champions, winning over fans with his stellar performances. However, securing his services permanently presents a significant challenge, as European giants Arsenal, Manchester United, Paris Saint-Germain, and Chelsea are closely monitoring his situation.

    According to Fanatik via Tutto Napoli, Galatasaray is formulating a financial strategy to activate Osimhen’s €75 million release clause—a clause valid outside Italy. This would allow the Süper Lig leaders to negotiate a permanent transfer at the end of the season.

    The club has reportedly partnered with Chinese investors to generate the necessary funds. Two Chinese companies have already pledged significant sponsorships to support this ambitious plan.

    Despite mounting interest from top European clubs, Osimhen has reiterated his commitment to Galatasaray for the current campaign. “I’m at Galatasaray until the end of the season,” he said, shutting down rumors of a potential January transfer.

    Galatasaray president Dursun Özbek and his management team are leaving no stone unturned in their efforts to retain the 26-year-old striker. With the Süper Lig title and Europa League glory in sight, Osimhen’s contributions remain crucial to the club’s aspirations.

    READ MORE:Bruno Onyemaechi set for role change in Boavista

    Meanwhile, Manchester United reportedly engaged Napoli in discussions for a January move. While the Italian side showed willingness to negotiate, Osimhen’s focus on finishing the season with Galatasaray has stalled those plans.

    As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on Galatasaray’s financial maneuvering and whether the club can pull off this bold move to secure one of the most sought-after strikers in world football.



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  • Chukwu Ndukwe to NFF: Keep Eguavoen for world cup dreams

    Former Super Eagles striker Chukwu Ndukwe has called on the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to keep Augustine Eguavoen as head coach ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers set to resume in March.

    The Super Eagles currently lack a permanent head coach, with Eguavoen serving as an interim manager during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.

    The year 2024 saw significant upheaval in Nigeria’s coaching setup. José Peseiro guided the team to the 2023 AFCON, while Finidi George managed the World Cup qualifiers in June. The NFF briefly pursued German coach Bruno Labbadia in August before entrusting Eguavoen with the AFCON qualifiers.

    READ MORE:Nwabali caught in controversy after Kaizer Chiefs defeat

    Under Eguavoen’s guidance, alongside assistants Daniel Ogunmodede (Remo Stars) and Fidelis Ilechukwu (Rangers), Nigeria secured their spot at the 2025 AFCON with a game to spare. While Eguavoen has expressed his desire to continue, he has also urged the NFF to make a definitive decision on appointing a permanent head coach.

    Chukwu Ndukwe, a former Bari and Çaykur Rizespor forward, believes hiring a new coach—whether local or foreign—would disrupt the team’s progress. Instead, he advocates for continuity and full support for the current technical crew.

    “Our priority should be qualifying for the World Cup, and for that, we need stability in the team,” Ndukwe told Brila FM.

    “Sometimes, the coach needs time to understand the squad, experiment with players, and build a solid team. I think Eguavoen and his technical crew should continue instead of bringing in a new coach and starting afresh.”

    Nigeria faces a daunting challenge in their World Cup qualifying campaign. The Super Eagles are currently fifth in Group C with three points, trailing Rwanda, South Africa, and Benin, each on seven points, and Lesotho, with five points.

    The team’s campaign began with three consecutive draws against Zimbabwe, Lesotho, and South Africa, followed by a 2-1 loss to Benin.

    Their quest to secure a World Cup spot resumes on March 17 with an away match against Rwanda in Kigali, followed by a home game against Zimbabwe on March 24.

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  • Ideye reveals foreign-based Nigerian stars eyeing NPFL return

    Former West Bromwich Albion forward Brown Ideye has revealed that several Nigerian players currently abroad are considering a return to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).

    Eighteen years after leaving Ocean Boys for Europe in 2006, Ideye has made a homecoming, signing with nine-time NPFL champions Enyimba FC. This move mirrors that of Super Eagles captain Ahmed Musa, who also returned to the NPFL to conclude his illustrious career.

    After making his debut for Enyimba, the former Olympiacos striker expressed his delight in rejoining the league where his professional journey began.

    “It was good. I was expecting to come in earlier in the game, but the coach knows best,” said Ideye, reflecting on his first match.

    Ideye also disclosed that his return has inspired interest among other foreign-based Nigerian players.

    “I’ve received a lot of messages from players abroad who are keen to be part of what’s happening—this movement of foreign-based players coming back to play. It’s a positive development,” he shared.

    Ideye’s debut for Enyimba came during a league encounter against Bendel Insurance, which ended in a goalless draw. The 35-year-old was substituted in during the 85th minute, replacing Chinedu Ufere.

    READ MORE:Nwabali caught in controversy after Kaizer Chiefs defeat

    As Enyimba gears up to resume their campaign in the second half of the season on January 19, Ideye will be aiming for more game time and a chance to make a significant impact on the team.



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  • Carragher selects Aina in EPL Team of the season

    Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher has included Nigerian defender Ola Aina in his English Premier League Team of the Season after the first 19 matches, highlighting the Super Eagles star’s stellar performances for Nottingham Forest.

    Aina has been instrumental in Nottingham Forest’s surprising campaign, helping the club transition from last season’s relegation battle to genuine contenders for a top four finish.

    The Tricky Trees have secured 11 wins, 4 draws, and just 4 losses, boasting the league’s third-best defense with only 19 goals conceded. This defensive record is bettered only by Liverpool (17) and Arsenal (16).

    The 28-year-old right-back has been a key figure in Forest’s success, starting all 19 league games and contributing two goals. His defensive stats are equally impressive: averaging 1.3 interceptions, 2.1 tackles, 5.7 ball recoveries, and 2.6 clearances per game.

    Aina’s performances have not gone unnoticed, with Manchester City reportedly considering a move for him in the upcoming transfer windows.

    READ MORE:Iwobi reveals Silva’s secret to Fulham’s success

    Carragher’s selection places Aina alongside elite names in his best XI of the seasons so far. The lineup includes Nikola Milenkovic, Virgil Van Dijk, Antonee Robinson, Ryan Gravenberch, Moises Caicedo, Mohamed Salah, Cole Palmer, Matheus Cunha, and Chris Wood. Aina’s teammate Milenkovic also features, reflecting Forest’s solid defensive setup.

    With six months remaining on his current contract, Aina’s consistent form could prompt Nottingham Forest to offer him an extension.



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  • Nwabali caught in controversy after Kaizer Chiefs defeat

    Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has become the focal point of a swirling controversy following Chippa United’s narrow 1-0 loss to Kaizer Chiefs at the Moses Mabhida Stadium.

    The decisive moment of the match came from Mduduzi Shabalala, who scored the game’s only goal after an impressive solo run. Shabalala skillfully navigated past three Chippa United defenders before firing a shot that slipped past Nwabali into the net.

    However, the incident has sparked intense debate within South Africa’s football circles. Reports from Goal.com have fueled speculation, with some suggesting that Nwabali may have intentionally allowed the goal to stand to facilitate a potential transfer to Kaizer Chiefs.

    Critics have pointed out that Shabalala’s shot appeared savable, raising questions about Nwabali’s role in the play. Allegations have emerged that the Nigerian goalkeeper may have been influenced by his rumored desire to join Kaizer Chiefs, one of South Africa’s most prestigious clubs.

    READ MORE:Carragher selects Aina in EPL Team of the season

    Nwabali has been linked with a move away from Chippa United, and sources claim he is on the radar of Kaizer Chiefs’ head coach Nasreddine Nabi.

    Despite the rumors, neither Nwabali nor his representatives have issued any official statements addressing the allegations.

    While some believe the incident casts doubt on Nwabali’s intentions, others argue it was simply an unfortunate error—one that even the best goalkeepers occasionally make. Critics caution against prematurely connecting the goal to the goalkeeper’s potential transfer ambitions.

    For now, the controversy leaves a cloud over Nwabali’s future at Chippa United as fans and pundits alike await further developments.



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  • Bruno Onyemaechi set for role change in Boavista

    Boavista defender Bruno Onyemaechi is set to make a pivotal positional shift, moving from his customary left-back role to center-back for the team’s upcoming Portuguese League clash against Arouca in Round 17.

    The change comes in response to the suspension of Uruguayan center-back Rodrigo Abascal, who earned his fifth yellow card during the derby against FC Porto, ruling him out of the crucial encounter.

    With Abascal unavailable and no suitable alternative in the squad, Boavista head coach Petit is expected to rely on Onyemaechi to anchor the defense.

    While Onyemaechi has predominantly played as a left-back for Boavista and Nigeria’s Super Eagles, he is no stranger to the center-back position, having made 34 professional appearances in the role. His adaptability makes him a natural choice to plug the gap in Boavista’s backline.

    READ MORE:Nwabali caught in controversy after Kaizer Chiefs defeat

    This tactical adjustment creates a new challenge for Coach Petit, as Onyemaechi’s absence on the left flank leaves a void. The team may struggle to find a replacement, especially with Joel Silva nursing a muscle injury and doubtful for the match.

    Boavista hopes Onyemaechi’s defensive versatility will bring much-needed stability to their reshuffled backline. The team is eager to break a winless streak that has persisted since November and secure a vital victory.

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    The match is scheduled for Saturday at Estádio do Bessa Seculo XXI and is critical for Boavista as they aim to close the first half of the season on a high note.

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  • NPFL declares mid-season break, opens transfer window

    The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has announced a three-week mid-season break following the conclusion of the first round of matches.

    The break, which runs from January 6 to January 25, 2025, coincides with the opening of the NPFL transfer window, scheduled from January 6 to February 5, 2025.

    The league is set to resume on January 25, 2025, with the commencement of the second round of fixtures. Remo Stars currently lead the NPFL standings with 36 points, closely trailed by Rivers United, who occupy second place with 34 points.

    READ MORE:NPFL Drama: late goal, red card galore in Port Harcourt

    During the break, clubs have given their players time off to rest and spend time with their families. This pause also allows teams to strengthen their squads during the transfer window as they prepare for the second half of the season.

    In the first-round standings, 3SC, Rangers International, and El Kanemi secured the third, fourth, and fifth positions with 33, 31, and 29 points respectively.

    At the bottom of the table, Nasarawa United sit in 20th place with 19 points, alongside Akwa United, who are also on 19 points in 19th place. Lobi Stars and Bendel Insurance are in 18th and 17th positions, both with 20 points.

    The second half of the season promises intense competition as teams battle for the championship title and struggle to avoid relegation.



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  • Boniface set to return from injury against Dortmund

    Super Eagles striker Victor Boniface is poised to make his comeback on January 10 when Bayer Leverkusen face Borussia Dortmund in their first Bundesliga match of the year.

    Boniface has been sidelined since late November after sustaining a thigh injury but has now completed his recovery and is ready to rejoin the squad.

    In his absence, Bayer Leverkusen performed impressively, with Czech forward Patrik Schick stepping up to score ten goals in his last ten games. Despite Schick’s form, Boniface will be eager to reclaim his spot in the starting lineup.

    According to Kicker, the 24-year-old is expected to be available for selection against Dortmund.

    Before his injury, Boniface had an impressive start to the season, netting six goals in ten Bundesliga appearances. Leverkusen coach Xabi Alonso will be counting on the Nigerian striker to regain his sharpness quickly as the team enters a critical phase of the campaign.

    With fixtures coming thick and fast, Leverkusen will need all hands-on deck to maintain their title challenge. Currently second in the Bundesliga, they trail leaders Bayern Munich by five points.

    READ MORE:El-Kanemi warriors coach sets top five target for the season

    Dortmund, however, present a formidable challenge, as Leverkusen have not beaten them since 2022. The match will be crucial for Die Werkself’s pursuit of Bundesliga glory as they aim to close the gap on Bayern.



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  • NFF President promises thrilling year for Nigerian football

    President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau, has assured Nigerians of top-quality performances from the national teams in upcoming tournaments, pledging thorough preparation and a commitment to excellence.

    Since assuming office in 2022, the 60-year-old has overseen significant progress in Nigerian football. Highlights of his tenure include the Super Falcons’ return to the Olympics and the Super Eagles’ commendable run to the final of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Côte d’Ivoire.

    Looking ahead to a packed 2025 calendar, Gusau emphasized a shift in focus from mere participation to active contention for titles.

    “The era of Nigerian teams arriving at major championships just to participate is gone,” Gusau stated in comments reported by Complete Sports. “Our objective is to ensure our teams can contend for honors anywhere. This requires preparing the teams well ahead of qualifiers and competitions.

    “I personally insisted on early camping for the Super Eagles B team, and their performance against Ghana speaks for itself. With just a month to the CHAN tournament, the team must go into camp immediately, and we’ll ensure that.”

    Gusau also highlighted the importance of sustaining the momentum of the Super Eagles’ AFCON success. “We aim to recreate the squad that came so close to lifting the trophy in Côte d’Ivoire. Achieving automatic qualification for the FIFA World Cup by winning the six remaining qualifiers is our target, and success there will set the tone for a stellar outing at the AFCON in Morocco later in the year.”

    READ MORE:Boniface set to return from injury against Dortmund

    The NFF President further revealed plans to bolster the Super Falcons through additional friendlies, ensuring a seamless blend of experienced players and emerging talents.

    “We are organizing more friendly matches for the Falcons to build a formidable team capable of conquering Africa in style. It’s a very busy year for us, and the NFF is committed to working closely with the National Sports Commission and securing greater corporate support for our programs and events.”

    Nigeria’s busy schedule kicks off with the CHAN 2024 tournament starting February 1, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting year for Nigerian football.



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  • Osimhen rejects transfer offers, commits to Galatasaray

    Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has reportedly declined multiple offers that could have seen him leave Galatasaray, where he is currently thriving on loan from Napoli.

    Osimhen joined the Turkish Süper Lig giants on a loan deal that includes a clause allowing him to transfer to another club in January, provided an agreement is reached with Napoli. However, the Nigerian international has made it clear he intends to stay with Galatasaray.

    Since arriving in Turkey, Osimhen has been in outstanding form, scoring 12 goals and providing five assists in just 15 appearances. His performances have drawn attention from Premier League heavyweights Chelsea, Arsenal, and Manchester United, the latter showing particular interest in securing a January deal to bolster their struggling campaign.

    According to Nigerian journalist Buchi Laba, who is close to Osimhen’s camp, the striker has turned down all offers, including one from Manchester United, to remain with Galatasaray.

    Galatasaray currently leads the Süper Lig standings by eight points and is on the verge of securing their 25th league title. Despite sitting sixth in their Europa League group, the team remains competitive, and Osimhen is focused on contributing to their success.

    Reports indicate that the Nigerian star is determined to complete the season in Turkey, prioritizing silverware with Galatasaray over a midseason exit. With Mauro Icardi sidelined due to injury, Osimhen’s role as the team’s primary striker has become even more critical.

    READ MORE:NFF President promises thrilling year for Nigerian football

    As the January transfer window approaches, Osimhen is expected to remain with Galatasaray, reaffirming his commitment to the club and his desire to see the season through to its conclusion.



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