Paradise News

Tag: General Sports

  • Akwa United’s relegation battle intensifies with tricky tie against Heartland

    Akwa United’s relegation battle intensifies as the club faces tricky tie against Heartland Nigeria Premier Football league Match day 18.

    After a tough debut match under acting Technical Adviser Ime Uko, the club faces a pivotal clash against Heartland FC on Monday, December 23, at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.

    The match, which was initially scheduled for Sunday, December 22, was rescheduled to accommodate the Jehovah’s Witnesses Regional Convention, which is being held at the stadium.

    A Tough Start for Uko

    Ime Uko, who was appointed as Akwa United’s acting Technical Adviser after the resignation of Mohammed Babaganaru, faced a difficult start to his tenure.

    In his first match in charge, Akwa United fell 2-1 to Bayelsa United in Yenagoa, adding to their growing list of disappointing results this season.

    The club’s struggles have placed them at the bottom of the NPFL table, with just 16 points from 17 matches.

    READ MORE:Pogba jailed for €13 million extortion scheme

    Despite his background as the team’s psychologist, Uko’s challenge is not just about technical adjustments but also about boosting the morale of a squad that has lacked confidence and consistency.

    With relegation looming, Uko’s immediate goal is to secure a win against Heartland to provide a much-needed lift for both the players and the fans.

    Heartland FC: A Mid-Table Team with Own Challenges

    On the other hand, Heartland FC are facing their own set of challenges, though they have been more stable than their counterparts. Under the management of Emmanuel Amuneke, the Naze Millionaires sit 11th in the league standings with 21 points.

    While not in immediate danger of relegation, they have been inconsistent, highlighted by their 1-1 draw at home against Insurance in match day 17.

    Heartland will approach the game against Akwa United with the aim of picking up crucial points to solidify their mid-table position.

    The Crucial Showdown

    For Akwa United, the stakes couldn’t be higher. A loss to Heartland would make their survival prospects even more difficult, while a victory could inject fresh optimism into their campaign.

    The team’s confidence is at rock bottom, but with a change in leadership and a home game ahead, Uko has a chance to make a significant impact.

    Conversely, Heartland FC will be eager to take advantage of Akwa United’s poor form. While they are not in the immediate relegation fight, a win would help ensure that they do not become entangled in a mid-season crisis of their own.



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  • Flamingos reach U17 WAFU-B Women’s Cup Final

    Flamingos, Nigeria’s U17 women’s national team are through to the final of the U17 WAFU-B Women’s Cup after securing a 2-0 victory over Benin in the semifinals on Friday. The win sets up a thrilling showdown with hosts Ghana for the inaugural tournament title on Sunday.

    The Flamingos were clinical in their execution, with Mary Nkpa converting a penalty in the 70th minute and Peace Effiong pouncing on a defensive error to seal the victory with a late goal.

    Nkpa’s Composed Penalty

    The game remained tightly contested for much of the first half, with both teams creating few clear-cut chances up until the 70th minute

    The Benin defense was caught handling the ball inside the box, and Nkpa stepped up to take the responsibility. With nerves of steel, the young striker calmly slotted the ball into the bottom corner, giving Nigeria a crucial 1-0 advantage.

    Effiong’s Late Strike

    As Benin pushed for an equalizer in the closing stages, a defensive mix-up in the Benin backline presented Nigeria with a golden opportunity. Peace Effiong was in the right place at the right time, seizing on the miscommunication between the Benin defenders to score into an empty net in the dying moments of the match.

    Nigeria vs Ghana: A Mouth-Watering Final

    With the victory, Nigeria’s Flamingos will now face hosts Ghana in the final, the black maidens slam Ivory coast 5-0 to set a date with the flamingos.

    READ MORE:Pogba jailed for €13 million extortion scheme

    The two teams have impressed throughout the tournament, and Sunday’s match promises to be an exciting encounter.



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  • Pogba jailed for €13 million extortion scheme

    Paul Pogba’s older brother Mathias Pogba, has been sentenced to three years in prison, two of which will be suspended, after being convicted in an extortion case that targeted the World Cup-winning midfielder.

    The verdict was handed down on Thursday afternoon at the Paris Court of Justice.

    Pogba, 35, was found guilty of organized extortion and attempted extortion as part of a scheme that allegedly involved him and a group of accomplices attempting to extort €13 million (£10.98 million) from his famous brother.

    The court also ruled that Mathias Pogba could serve the one-year portion of his sentence under house arrest, wearing an electronic bracelet, rather than being incarcerated.

    In addition to Mathias Pogba, five other men were found guilty in the case and received custodial sentences ranging from four to eight years for their roles in the plot. The charges stemmed from a series of incidents in which Paul Pogba was allegedly targeted by a group of individuals close to him.

    Kidnapping and Extortion Plot

    The extortion case began in March 2022, when Paul Pogba, 31, filed a formal complaint after being kidnapped and robbed by two masked and armed men. The perpetrators allegedly demanded a staggering €13 million for “protection services.”

    Reports suggested that the plot was carefully orchestrated by people in Pogba’s inner circle, including his brother Mathias.

    After the initial threat, the group reportedly continued to intimidate Pogba, pressuring him to pay the ransom, claiming he had abandoned them after achieving international fame.

    They also allegedly attempted to tarnish the footballer’s reputation by spreading false and damaging accusations, such as claiming he had hired a witch doctor to cast a spell on his France teammate, Kylian Mbappé.

    During the investigation, it emerged that Paul Pogba’s brother had not been directly involved in the kidnapping but was linked to the broader extortion operation.

    Financial Demands and False Allegations

    According to French media outlets, including Le Parisien, Paul Pogba had also been coerced into paying €100,000 (£84,423) to the extortionists.

    As the investigation unfolded, Pogba revealed that the group had also attempted to blackmail him by making further wild claims, including alleging that he had abandoned his family.

    One of the most sensational accusations was made by Mathias, who claimed that his brother had consulted a witch doctor to cast a spell on Mbappé. Pogba vehemently denied these allegations, describing them as “completely false.”

    The Trial

    After a two-year investigation, the Paris prosecutor’s office confirmed that Mathias Pogba, along with five other men, would stand trial for their involvement in the extortion scheme.

    The trial took place over the course of a week, with the court ultimately concluding that Mathias Pogba had been involved in organized extortion but not in the kidnapping itself. The charge of kidnapping was not retained after the trial.

    READ MORE:Real Madrid clinch Intercontinental Cup with dominant victory

    In addition to his prison sentence, Mathias has been ordered to pay a €20,000 (£16,500) fine. His lawyer has indicated that they will appeal the decision, which could delay the final resolution of the case.

    Impact on Paul Pogba’s Career

    The case has had significant personal and professional ramifications for Paul Pogba. The Frenchman, who has been embroiled in legal and sporting controversies, including a doping ban that was reduced earlier this year, now faces the challenge of rebuilding his career.

    Pogba had been sidelined for a lengthy period after failing a doping test in 2022, but with his ban reduced, he is set to return to football in 2025.

    The ongoing legal saga involving his brother Mathias has only added to the turbulent period for the Pogba family. Despite the public nature of the case, Paul has largely kept a low profile throughout the legal proceedings.

    As Mathias Pogba prepares to appeal the court’s decision, the case serves as a reminder of the darker side of fame and fortune, where even family ties can be exploited for financial gain.



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  • Paul Pogba’s brother jailed for €13 million extortion scheme against the footballer

    Paul Pogba’s, older brother of French football Mathias, has been sentenced to three years in prison, two of which will be suspended, after being convicted in an extortion case that targeted the World Cup-winning midfielder.

    The verdict was handed down on Thursday afternoon at the Paris Court of Justice.

    Pogba, 35, was found guilty of organized extortion and attempted extortion as part of a scheme that allegedly involved him and a group of accomplices attempting to extort €13 million (£10.98 million) from his famous brother.

    The court also ruled that Mathias Pogba could serve the one-year portion of his sentence under house arrest, wearing an electronic bracelet, rather than being incarcerated.

    In addition to Mathias Pogba, five other men were found guilty in the case and received custodial sentences ranging from four to eight years for their roles in the plot. The charges stemmed from a series of incidents in which Paul Pogba was allegedly targeted by a group of individuals close to him.

    Kidnapping and Extortion Plot

    The extortion case began in March 2022, when Paul Pogba, 31, filed a formal complaint after being kidnapped and robbed by two masked and armed men. The perpetrators allegedly demanded a staggering €13 million for “protection services.”

    Reports suggested that the plot was carefully orchestrated by people in Pogba’s inner circle, including his brother Mathias.

    After the initial threat, the group reportedly continued to intimidate Pogba, pressuring him to pay the ransom, claiming he had abandoned them after achieving international fame.

    They also allegedly attempted to tarnish the footballer’s reputation by spreading false and damaging accusations, such as claiming he had hired a witch doctor to cast a spell on his France teammate, Kylian Mbappé.

    During the investigation, it emerged that Paul Pogba’s brother had not been directly involved in the kidnapping but was linked to the broader extortion operation.

    Financial Demands and False Allegations

    According to French media outlets, including Le Parisien, Paul Pogba had also been coerced into paying €100,000 (£84,423) to the extortionists.

    As the investigation unfolded, Pogba revealed that the group had also attempted to blackmail him by making further wild claims, including alleging that he had abandoned his family.

    One of the most sensational accusations was made by Mathias, who claimed that his brother had consulted a witch doctor to cast a spell on Mbappé. Pogba vehemently denied these allegations, describing them as “completely false.”

    The Trial

    After a two-year investigation, the Paris prosecutor’s office confirmed that Mathias Pogba, along with five other men, would stand trial for their involvement in the extortion scheme.

    The trial took place over the course of a week, with the court ultimately concluding that Mathias Pogba had been involved in organized extortion but not in the kidnapping itself. The charge of kidnapping was not retained after the trial.

    READ MORE:Real Madrid clinch Intercontinental Cup with dominant victory

    In addition to his prison sentence, Mathias has been ordered to pay a €20,000 (£16,500) fine. His lawyer has indicated that they will appeal the decision, which could delay the final resolution of the case.

    Impact on Paul Pogba’s Career

    The case has had significant personal and professional ramifications for Paul Pogba. The Frenchman, who has been embroiled in legal and sporting controversies, including a doping ban that was reduced earlier this year, now faces the challenge of rebuilding his career.

    Pogba had been sidelined for a lengthy period after failing a doping test in 2022, but with his ban reduced, he is set to return to football in 2025.

    The ongoing legal saga involving his brother Mathias has only added to the turbulent period for the Pogba family. Despite the public nature of the case, Paul has largely kept a low profile throughout the legal proceedings.

    As Mathias Pogba prepares to appeal the court’s decision, the case serves as a reminder of the darker side of fame and fortune, where even family ties can be exploited for financial gain.



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  • Super Eagles B edge Remo stars as CHAN qualifiers looms

    The Super Eagles B team secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over NPFL side Remo Stars in a friendly match at the Remo Stars Complex in Ikenne, Ogun State, on Wednesday.

    This win was an important part of their preparations for the upcoming 2024 CHAN qualifiers against Ghana’s Black Galaxies.

    Super Eagles B XI vs Remo Stars:

    • Goalkeeper: Henry
    • Defenders: Sodiq, Nduka, Onyebuchi, Imoh
    • Midfielders: Jide, Zayaad, Isaac
    • Forwards: Anas, Sodiq, Alimi

    Isaac Saviour and Samuel Ayarinde scored for the Eagles, with experienced midfielder Rabiu Ali providing a key assist. The match started brightly, with Saviour putting the Eagles ahead in the 2nd minute, firing home a well-controlled shot after a smart assist from Sikiru Alimi.

    In the 75th minute, Ayarinde doubled the lead, finishing off a precise pass from Rabiu Ali. Although Remo Stars pulled one back in the 90th minute through Iboro Victory, Super Eagles B held firm to secure the 2-1 win.

    READ MORE:Ghana ready to battle Nigeria in 2024 CHAN Qualifier

    All 29 players are still in camp, but Coach Augustine Eguavoen, assisted by Daniel Ogunmodede and Fidelis Illechukwu, will trim the squad to the final 22-man list this week.

    The first leg of the CHAN qualifiers between Ghana and Nigeria will take place in Accra at 5 PM on Sunday, 22 December.



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  • Emmanuel Uchenna completes record transfer from Baník Ostrava to Sparta Prague

    Nigerian centre-back Emmanuel Uchenna has officially completed a high-profile transfer from Baník Ostrava to Sparta Prague, with the clubs agreeing to a record-breaking transfer fee of €2 million (approximately 50 million Czech koruna).

    Uchenna,  21, joined Baník’s A-team in the summer and quickly established himself as a key player, made 14 starts in the Czech Chance League. He started his career in Nigeria with Ikorodu city of Lagos before leaving for Czech Republic in 2023.

    A Record Move

    The transfer marks a significant step in Uchenna’s career and sets a new benchmark for Baník Ostrava. According to the club’s executive director, Michal Bělák, the transfer fee was set at a “record level” based on a pre-established exit clause in Uchenna’s contract. This clause ensured that Baník would receive a substantial fee should the young defender leave, and the final deal now stands as the club’s highest severance pay in recent times.

    “This is a significant transfer for both parties,” Bělák commented.

    Interest from Other Clubs

    While Sparta was the club that ultimately secured Uchenna’s services, sources close to the player revealed that there was significant interest from other Czech top-flight clubs, including arch-rivals Slavia Prague. However, Uchenna had his heart set on moving to Sparta from the outset.

    “In the early stages, we were aware that other clubs, including Slavia, had inquired about the player,” said Bělák. “However, Emmanuel made it clear through his agent that he preferred a move to Sparta, and that was a key factor in the negotiations.”

    Uchenna’s Development at Baník

    Since making the leap to Baník’s senior squad in the summer, Uchenna has impressed both fans and coaching staff alike with his composure at the back and his physicality in aerial duels.

    READ MORE:Cyriel Dessers set for shock January exit

    Despite his young age, the Nigerian has shown maturity beyond his years and has quickly become one of the most sought-after defenders in the Czech league.



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  • CAF President to visit Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda ahead of 2024 CHAN

    The President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Dr. Patrice Motsepe, is set to visit Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda this week as part of preparations for the upcoming TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024.

    Dr. Motsepe’s tour, which begins on Thursday, 19 December, will take him to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, before moving on to Nairobi, Kenya, and Kampala, Uganda, where he will conclude the visit on Friday, 20 December.

    During his trip, Dr. Motsepe will meet with key government officials, football leaders, and the Local Organising Committees (LOC) of the three host nations. The primary focus of his visit will be to assess the ongoing preparations for the competition, which will take place across the three East African countries.

    As part of his schedule, Dr. Motsepe is expected to tour various stadiums and training facilities that are currently undergoing renovations in preparation for the tournament.

    These visits will give him the opportunity to evaluate the progress of the infrastructure work and ensure that the venues meet CAF’s standards for the competition.

    The visit follows a previous inspection tour conducted by a CAF delegation in November 2023. During that visit, the delegation examined the stadiums, training sites, hotels, airports, and other essential facilities in the three host countries, marking an important step in the countdown to the tournament.

    The CAF President’s visit underscores the organization’s commitment to ensuring the success of the 2024 CHAN, which is expected to showcase the best African national teams composed of home-based players.

    REA MORE:CAF announces key dates for 2025 African Football Events

    With just months to go before the tournament kicks off, Dr. Motsepe’s visit is seen as a crucial part of finalizing the plans for the historic 2024 edition of the Chan which kicks off from 1–28 February 2025



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  • Iheanacho set to leave Sevilla amidst struggles

    Kelechi Iheanacho turbulent spell at Sevilla FC looks set to come to an end as the club prepares to part ways with the Nigerian forward during next month’s winter transfer window.

    The striker has endured a frustrating first six months in Spain, failing to make the impact expected following his summer move from Leicester City.

    With just zero goal in 9 La Liga appearances, Iheanacho has found himself on the fringes of head coach Francisco Javier Garcia Pimienta’s plans, and it now seems almost certain that he will be heading for the exit.

    According to Marca, Sevilla’s sporting department, led by director Victor Orta, is already looking to sign a new striker in January The club’s ongoing difficulties in attack, coupled with Iheanacho’s inability to establish himself as a regular contributor, mean that the Nigerian is expected to be discarded as part of the club’s mid-season overhaul.

    Sevilla’s struggles in front of goal have been well-documented this season, with both Iheanacho and fellow striker Isaac Romero failing to find the back of the net on a consistent basis.

    READ MORE:caf-announces-key-dates-for-2025-african-football-events

    Iheanacho’s transfer to Sevilla last summer was seen as a promising move for both player and club. The 27-year-old had previously enjoyed a solid stint at Leicester City, showcasing his ability to score goals in the Premier League.

    However, his transition to La Liga has been far less successful. With just 0 goal in 9 la Liga games and 2 goals in 3 Copa Del Rey



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  • Cyriel Dessers set for shock January exit

    Cyriel Dessers, the Nigerian striker who has spent just 18 months at Rangers, could be on his way out of Ibrox in January, with Ligue 1 club AS Saint-Étienne reportedly keen on securing his services.

    The 29-year-old forward has had a mixed spell at the Scottish giants since his arrival from Italian side Cremonese in the summer of 2023. While Dessers has managed a respectable tally of 34 goals and 13 assists in 80 appearances, his inconsistent performances in front of goal have left many Rangers fans unconvinced.

    Struggling for Regular Playtime

    Dessers’ frustrations have mounted as he has found himself on the fringes of the team in recent weeks. Despite his contribution last season, he has struggled to secure a regular spot.

    One of the defining moments of his season came during Rangers’ Sports Cup final against Celtic. Dessers was brought on as a substitute during the penalty shootout, but he did not take a spot kick, leaving some fans questioning his willingness to step up in a high-pressure situation.

    This was especially notable as Rangers’ goalkeeper Jack Butland took a penalty, adding fuel to the fire surrounding Dessers’ confidence under pressure.

    A Move to France?

    With his future at Ibrox uncertain, Dessers is reportedly considering a move away in search of more regular playing time. According to Le Républicain Sportif, French Ligue 1 club AS Saint-Étienne are leading the race for his signature.

    The 10-time French champions have been struggling this season, currently sitting 16th in Ligue 1, with just 12 goals scored in 15 matches. This lack of attacking threat has prompted the club to seek reinforcements up front, and Dessers is seen as a potential solution to their woes.

    The striker’s current contract at Rangers runs until 2027, and the Scottish club could demand around £3.5 million for his services.

    Despite being a regular scorer at Rangers, Dessers is third in the striker’s hierarchy, and a move to France could provide him with the opportunity to play more frequently and rediscover the form that saw him earn a move to Ibrox in the first place.

    A Chance for Revival?

    For Dessers, a potential move to Saint-Étienne offers a fresh start in a competitive league where he could regain his confidence and continue his career at a high level.

    Having previously played for Feyenoord in the Netherlands and Cremonese in Italy, the Nigerian international is no stranger to top-flight football in Europe, and a switch to Ligue 1 could be the change he needs to reignite his goal-scoring form.

    READ MORE:Iheanacho set to leave Sevilla amidst struggles – The Athletic NG

    As the January transfer window draws closer, Cyriel Dessers’ future is increasingly in doubt, with AS Saint-Étienne looking like the most likely destination for the Nigerian forward.



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  • Real Madrid clinch Intercontinental Cup with dominant victory

    Real Madrid claimed the Intercontinental Cup on Wednesday with a dominant 3-0 victory over Mexico’s Pachuca at Lusail Stadium in Qatar. The Spanish giants were in control from start to finish, securing the title with goals from Kylian Mbappé, Rodrygo, and Vinicius Jr.

    The match began with Real Madrid dictating play, and they broke the deadlock in the 37th minute with a beautifully orchestrated team goal. Jude Bellingham initiated the move, passing to Vinicius Jr., who raced past Pachuca’s goalkeeper and laid the ball off for Mbappé. The French forward tapped into an empty net to give Madrid a 1-0 lead.

    Just 15 minutes into the second half, Rodrygo doubled their advantage with a superb solo effort. He weaved past two defenders before cutting inside and curling a right-footed strike into the top corner, leaving Pachuca’s goalkeeper helpless.

    In the 83rd minute, Vinicius Jr. sealed the win from the penalty spot. Oussama Idrissi fouled Madrid’s Lucas Vazquez inside the box, and Vinicius confidently converted the penalty, making it 3-0.

    The victory added to Real Madrid’s impressive trophy haul, marking their ninth global title, which includes three Intercontinental Cups and five FIFA Club World Cups. Despite a few counter-attacks from Pachuca, Madrid’s superior quality was evident throughout the match, and the result never seemed in doubt.

    For Pachuca, it was a disappointing defeat, but they showed resilience against one of the world’s top teams. Real Madrid, however, will celebrate yet another international triumph as they continue to cement their place as one of football’s most successful clubs.



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