Tag: General Sports

Assistant referee Alessandro Giallatini was overcome with emotion following Aston Villa’s thrilling 3-2 victory over RB Leipzig in the Champions League on Tuesday.

The 49-year-old was seen crying at full-time, sharing a poignant moment with Leipzig’s coach Marco Rose, marking his final match as an assistant referee.

With 170 games in Serie A, several championships and Champions League games, Giallatani is stepping down as a referee. Marco Rose ended up comforting the Italian.

“I asked him what was going on. He said he had refereed his last fight today at the age of 49. We gave him a suit. It’s a beautiful and emotional story. I congratulated him and told him that he now has a little more time, which he has to use wisely and that he can take care of his family,” Marco Rose told Bild.

Giallatini’s tears came after Ross Barkley’s deflected goal in the 85th minute, which secured Villa’s fourth win in six Champions League games.

The victory puts Unai Emery’s side in a strong position to advance automatically to the knockout stage. According to The Mirror, the match in Germany was the official’s final game before retiring from his role.

READ MORE: enyimbas-nightmare-continues-sunshine-stars-shock-hosts

Over his illustrious career, Giallatini officiated in several high-profile tournaments, including the 2020 UEFA Champions League final between Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain. He also took part in the 2022 World Cup and the 2024 UEFA Euros, as noted by Transfermarkt.

The highlight of the official’s career was being part of the team for the 2020 Champions League Final between Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain, working with Daniele Orsato.

Following the match, Portugal’s coach Roberto Martinez, who was a pundit on Amazon Prime Video Sport, praised Giallatini’s passion for the game, highlighting his significant contributions to football officiating.

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With the win, Villa secured 13 points from six matches, placing them third in the Champions League standings. Meanwhile, Leipzig, who suffered a sixth consecutive defeat, remain at the bottom of the table. Despite the defeat, the emotional scenes at full-time will be remembered as Giallatini marked the end of a remarkable career in the officiating world.

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Enyimba International’s winless run stretched to seven matches as they were held to a goalless draw by Sunshine Stars in a rescheduled Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Match Day 16 clash at the Elephant Park in Aba. The nine-time NPFL champions have now gone six matches without a win, including one loss during this streak.

Despite dominating possession with 62% and registering 17 shots, 8 of which were on target, Enyimba could not break down Sunshine Stars’ defense. Key attacking players Austin Onyeamacehi, Ekene Awazie, and Ifeanyi Ihemekwele were all wasteful in front of goal. Ihemekwele, who had been the sole scorer in Enyimba’s comeback draw against Zamalek, was again unable to find the net, leaving the hosts frustrated.

The people’s elephant lack of goals prompted Coach Yemi Daniel Olanrewaju to sanction the acquisition of former Super Eagles striker Brown Ideye who joins with vast experience in Nigerian League and in Europe.

READ MORE: Ademola Lookman focused on growth, dismisses Premier League return rumors

Goalkeeper Emmanuel Ofori was a standout for Sunshine Stars, making 8 crucial saves to deny the hosts any goals. Enyimba’s Nathaniel Asibe, starting in place of the injured Ani Ozoemena, was largely untested in the match.

The draw leaves Enyimba in 7th place on the NPFL table with 22 points. They still have two games in hand, giving them an opportunity to climb higher in the standings. However, their inability to convert possession and shots into victories continues to be a concern.

Sunshine Stars’ New Leadership

Sunshine Stars, who are 18th on the NPFL table, are hoping for a turnaround under new head coach Abubakar Bala, who replaced Kennedy Boboye earlier this season. Bobola Akinfolarin had been in charge during the interim period. Sunshine Stars are on a 4-match winless streak and will look to end this run in their upcoming fixtures.

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Looking Ahead: Enyimba’s CAF Confederation Cup Challenge

Enyimba now shifts their focus to their next CAF Confederation Cup match, where they will face Black Bulls of Mozambique in Maputo for Match Day 3. Both teams are yet to register a win in the competition, with Enyimba on 1 point and Black Bulls on 0. A victory in this match will be crucial for both sides as they look to stay in contention for a spot in the knockout stages.

Their next challenge comes on Match Day 17 of the NPFL, where they will face Niger Tornadoes in Minna. With their new coach at the helm

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Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman has expressed his gratitude and pride at being named among the candidates for the prestigious African Ballon d’Or, an honor that recognizes the best African footballer each year.

Speaking to Tutto Atalanta, Lookman emphasized how significant the recognition is, not just for him, but also for Nigeria and his family.

“Being among the candidates for the African Ballon d’Or is a great privilege, not only for me but also for my country and my family,” Lookman said. “It is an important recognition, but my focus is always on the pitch, match after match.”

READ MORE: Ademola Lookman focused on growth, dismisses Premier League return rumors

The Nigerian forward, who has enjoyed a standout season with Atalanta, has been one of the top performers in Serie A and European competitions. His impressive form has made him one of the favorites for the CAF Player of the Year award, alongside other top African talents.

Lookman, however, remains humble despite the accolades and awards that continue to come his way. He emphasized that, while the potential achievement would be special, his priority remains on continuous improvement. “If it arrives, it will be a special moment, but right now, I am only thinking about improving myself,” Lookman explained.

Since the end of last season, Lookman,  has been one of the most sought-after players in European football after racking up 27 goals in 57 games for Atalanta and 6 goals in 16 games for the Nigeria’s  Super Eagles in 2024, which includes 3 goals that help Nigeria to silver medal at AFCON 2024.

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The annual CAF Awards will happen on Monday 16th December 2023 at a glittering event taking place in Marrakech, Morocco, where the finest African footballers, coaches and administrators on the planet will gather to crown the best of the best.

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Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman has once again shut down speculation about a possible Premier League return, following his stellar performance in the UEFA Champions League match.

In a thrilling 3-2 loss to Real Madrid, Lookman scored Atalanta’s second goal and was a thorn in the flesh of the Madrid defenders earning him the Player of the Match award.

Since the end of last season, Lookman, 27,  has been one of the most sought-after players in European football after racking up 17 goals in 45 games, his remarkable hat-trick in the UEFA Europa League final against Bayer Leverkusen.

READ MORE: Maduka Okoye sends important message to Nigerians following Super Eagles return

Despite the growing interest, Lookman remains firmly focused on his development at Atalanta, where he has enjoyed a resurgence after struggling in the Premier League with Everton, Fulham, and Leicester City.

Lookman spoke about his resurgence with Sporty TV, “The player that I was then is definitely the completely different player than I am today. It’s all becoming who I am today, so I’m pleased with that, and wherever the future takes you, we shall see.”

Lookman’s rise in Italy has been nothing short of remarkable. Once seen as a player struggling for consistency in England, he has flourished in Serie A, scoring 32 goals in 74 matches.

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In response to the growing transfer speculation, Lookman remains grounded and focused on the process that has led to his incredible form. “I’ve created a process for myself – how I work, how I think, and how I improve. It’s all coming together, and I’m pleased with the player I am today,” he said.

His performances helped Nigeria’s Super Eagles to silver medal at AFCON 2024 scoring 3 goals, he is favorite to win the CAF Best Men’s player of the year award.

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The Colorado Rapids have bolstered their defensive ranks with the signing of Nigerian international Chidozie Awaziem and promising young defender Ian Murphy from FC  Cincinnati.

In exchange for the duo, Colorado will send $1 million in General Allocation Money (GAM) to Cincinnati, with the potential for an additional $200,000 in conditional GAM based on performance metrics. Furthermore, Cincinnati will be entitled to a percentage of any future transfer fee if either player is moved within MLS or transferred abroad.

Rapids welcome Awaziem to the club

“We are excited to welcome Chidozie and Ian to the Rapids,” said Colorado Rapids President Pádraig Smith. “Chidozie is a leader and a powerful defender with vast experience in Europe and on the international stage, while Ian has established himself as an athletic and accomplished defender in MLS. Both players are strong fits for our game model, and they bring added quality to our group as we look to build off a successful 2024 season and continue strengthening our team.”

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Chidozie Awaziem: A Veteran Presence

Awaziem, 27, joins Colorado after spending one season with FC Cincinnati, where he made 14 appearances in all competitions and recorded three assists. The Nigerian center-back has an extensive career across Europe, making nearly 300 professional appearances.

He began his career with FC Porto in 2015 before going on to play for clubs like Boavista FC in Portugal, where he formed a partnership with current Rapids defender Reggie Cannon during the 2020-21 season. Awaziem also spent time at Hajduk Split in Croatia, where he helped the club win the 2023 Croatian Football Cup.

Awaziem, who is signed through the 2025 season with options for 2026 and 2027, has been a regular fixture for Nigeria’s national team. He has earned 33 caps, including six starts during the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations and a notable appearance in the 2018 FIFA World Cup. In 2024, Awaziem represented Nigeria four times, including in the African Cup of Nations final.

READ MORE: Maduka Okoye sends important message to Nigerians following Super Eagles return

Awaziem and Murphy further strengthens the Rapids’ defense as they look to build on a strong 2024 campaign and continue their pursuit of MLS success. Colorado finished the regular season on a high note and will look to carry that momentum forward with their new signings adding depth and experience to the backline.

About the Colorado Rapids

The Colorado Rapids are a professional soccer team based in Commerce City, Colorado, and are a member of Major League Soccer (MLS). Founded in 1996, the team has a rich history and has made significant strides in recent seasons under the leadership of President Pádraig Smith and head coach Robin Fraser. The Rapids are committed to building a winning team and fostering a strong soccer culture in the Colorado community.

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FIFA Licensed Intermediary Mudi Nwaeze has praised the Ebonyi State Government led by Rt. Hon. Francis Nwifuru for its decision to establish Abakaliki FC, which now competes in the Nigeria National League (NNL). Nwaeze’s endorsement comes as the club, founded by Governor Nwifuru , marks a significant milestone in its debut season in Nigeria’s second-tier football competition.

Establishment of Abakaliki FC has generated tremendous excitement among sports enthusiasts in the region, with many viewing it as a catalyst for the growth of football in Ebonyi State.

In a heartfelt statement, Nwaeze, who has long been a staunch advocate for grassroots football development, commended Governor Rt Hon Francis Nwifuru for responding to the calls of the people by founding the state-owned club. He noted that the creation of Abakaliki FC is not just a sporting initiative but a platform for youth development, social unity, and economic growth in the state.

“This landmark decision by the Ebonyi State Government is a game-changer for our community,” said Nwaeze. “The creation of Abakaliki FC is more than just about football. It provides young athletes with an opportunity to showcase their talents on a national stage, encouraging youth development and empowering the next generation of players.”

READ MORE: Maduka Okoye sends important message to Nigerians following Super Eagles return

Nweaze’s letter to the Governor of Ebonyi State

Abakaliki FC’s presence in the Nigeria National League is seen as a powerful tool for fostering social engagement and community pride. Nwaeze emphasized that the club would also provide a boost to the local economy through job creation and increased tourism. Fans from neighboring states are expected to travel to Abakaliki for matches, adding to the region’s economic activity and providing a significant avenue for community development.

“Having a professional football team in Ebonyi State will bring economic benefits, not just for the club itself, but for the local community as a whole. From creating jobs to driving tourism, the establishment of Abakaliki FC is a significant step forward for the region,” Nwaeze added.

The intermediary also lauded the government’s commitment to improving the state’s sports infrastructure, particularly the planned upgrade of the Pa-Ngele Oruta Township Stadium, the home ground of Abakaliki FC. The stadium has long served as a focal point for sports in the state, and Nwaeze expressed his confidence that the planned enhancements will help elevate the playing conditions for Abakaliki FC, as well as make the stadium a viable venue for national and regional sporting events.

“The upgrade of Pa-Ngele Oruta Stadium is a vital step toward making Ebonyi State a competitive force in Nigerian football,” Nwaeze said. “A modernized stadium will not only benefit Abakaliki FC but will also attract national and international sporting events, further enhancing the state’s profile in the sports world.”

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The promise to upgrade Pa-Ngele Oruta Stadium aligns with the Ebonyi State Government’s broader commitment to investing in sports as a tool for development. Nwaeze expressed his full backing for the governor’s efforts, emphasizing that this initiative is in line with the administration’s goal of enriching the lives of the people and building a legacy of excellence.

In closing, Nwaeze assured Governor Nwifuru of his unwavering support for Abakaliki FC and all initiatives aimed at improving the state’s sports infrastructure. He also pledged his ongoing commitment to assisting the club’s growth and success, both on and off the field.

As Abakaliki FC embarks on its journey in the NNL, all eyes are on the club and the impact it will have on the football landscape in Ebonyi State. With the strong backing of the state government and stakeholders like Nwaeze, the club has the foundation to grow and make a lasting impact in the Nigerian football scene.

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Mohamed Salah’s coolly taken penalty helped Liverpool secure a 1-0 victory over Girona at the Estadi Montilivi, maintaining their perfect record in the UEFA Champions League with six consecutive wins. The match began with an early chance for Liverpool as Darwin Núñez tested Girona’s goalkeeper, Paulo Gazzaniga.

Alisson made his long-awaited return to the starting lineup after recovering from a hamstring injury sustained during Liverpool’s win at Crystal Palace on October 5. The Brazilian goalkeeper proved his worth with crucial first-half saves, denying Bryan Gil, Miguel Gutiérrez, and Yáser Asprilla. In the second half, Alisson kept out Arnaut Danjuma’s attempt from a tight angle. Daley Blind also had a golden opportunity but mis-hit Gutiérrez’s cross when unmarked in the box.

READ MORE: Maduka Okoye sends important message to Nigerians following Super Eagles return

Liverpool had their own chances, with Joe Gomez’s early header tipped over by Gazzaniga and Núñez denied in a one-on-one situation before the break. Against a Girona side that has now lost five of their six Champions League matches this season, it was once again Salah who made the difference. The Egyptian forward, who now has 13 goals in 16 games across all competitions, extended his impressive form to seven goals in his last six matches.

The Egyptian pharaoh Mohammed Salah has now scored 46th Champions League goals in 86 appearances. Mohamed Salah has 28 goal contributions in 22 games for Liverpool FC this season

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With this victory, Liverpool remain top of the group and are guaranteed a top-eight finish if other results go their way this week. The Reds will face Lille away and PSV Eindhoven at home in January. Liverpool’s triumph also marked their 16th win in 18 matches, with just two draws since their loss to Nottingham Forest on September 14.

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Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen has been diagnosed with a moderate muscle strain following an injury sustained during the club’s thrilling 3-2 victory over Sivasspor on Sunday. The Nigerian international felt discomfort in his right posterior upper muscle during the match, prompting immediate medical attention.

Subsequent MRI scans at the hospital revealed a moderate strain along with bleeding in the affected muscle group, which has left the club and Osimhen’s medical team assessing the next steps in his recovery. Galatasaray confirmed the injury and stated that treatment for the 25-year-old forward has already commenced.

READ MORE: Galatasaray president reveals Victor Osimhen’s transfer plans amid speculation

“During the match against Sivasspor, Victor experienced pain in his right posterior upper muscle,” a club statement read. “The MRI results have confirmed a moderate strain and some bleeding in the muscle group. His treatment has started, and we will continue to monitor his progress. No definitive return date has been set yet, as we will act based on his clinical recovery and the demands of our busy match schedule.”

Osimhen has been in sensational form since joining Galatasaray on loan, making an immediate impact in Turkish football. In just 13 appearances across all competitions, he has netted 10 goals and provided five assists, playing a crucial role in the club’s dominance in the Süper Lig. His performances have helped the Lions maintain a six-point lead at the top of the table with 38 points from 14 matches.

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The injury comes at a challenging time for both Osimhen and Galatasaray, with the team facing a packed fixture calendar in both domestic and European competitions. While the exact timeline for his recovery remains unclear, the club will hope that their star striker can return to full fitness as soon as possible to maintain their strong league position.

For now, Galatasaray will rely on their other attacking options to fill the void left by Osimhen, but the absence of the Nigerian marksman is undoubtedly a significant blow to their title aspirations as they continue their quest for Süper Lig glory.

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Former Super Eagles striker Brown Ideye has signed with nine-time NPFL Champions, Enyimba, for the remainder of the 2024/25 season. The announcement, confirmed by Enyimba’s Sporting Director Ifeanyi Ekwueme, marks a dramatic return to the Nigerian top flight for the 36-year-old, who has been without a club since leaving Kuwaiti side Al Yarmouk in 2022.

The deal, finalized after weeks of negotiations, sees Ideye make a remarkable return to the Nigerian Premier Football League (NPFL) 17 years after departing Ocean Boys in 2006. His career has since taken him to several clubs in Europe and the Middle East, including stints at West Bromwich Albion and Olympique de Marseille, but his decision to rejoin the NPFL with Enyimba is a clear signal of intent.

“It’s a deal that we believe will bolster our attacking options,” Ekwueme told reporters. “Brown brings a wealth of experience and goalscoring pedigree, both domestically and internationally. We are confident that he will play a pivotal role as we look to challenge for the league title and make a mark in the CAF Confederation Cup.”

READ MORE: Galatasaray president reveals Victor Osimhen’s transfer plans amid speculation

The transfer is a significant boost for Enyimba, who are in the midst of a busy fixture schedule. The team is preparing for two critical matches over the next five days: a rescheduled NPFL clash against Sunshine Stars and a crucial group-stage game in the CAF Confederation Cup against Mozambique’s Black Bulls.

Ideye’s return also highlights a broader trend of former Super Eagles stars making moves back to Nigeria, following in the footsteps of players like Ahmed Musa and Abdullahi Shehu, who both recently returned to domestic football with Kano Pillars. The influx of seasoned internationals has injected renewed energy into the local league, and the addition of Ideye is likely to further raise the profile of Nigerian football.

A Familiar Face, A New Chapter

For Ideye, this move represents a return to his roots. A star in the Super Eagles’ victorious 2013 AFCON campaign, he has a rich history in the national team, scoring key goals in some of the most memorable moments of Nigeria’s footballing history. His decision to join Enyimba, a club with a proud tradition of success, also shows his desire to contribute to the continued growth of Nigerian football at the domestic level. His arrival is expected to strengthen Enyimba’s attacking force, which has often struggled to convert chances this season. As a proven goal scorer with a dynamic style of play, Ideye could be the missing piece Enyimba needs to revive their title aspirations and make a strong run in Africa.

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The Road Ahead

Enyimba’s next challenge comes quickly, with a midweek encounter against Sunshine Stars in the NPFL, followed by a continental clash in Maputo, Mozambique, against Black Bulls. The team’s immediate focus will be on securing vital points in both competitions, and Ideye will no doubt be in the spotlight as the club’s new talisman.

As Enyimba eyes another NPFL title and a deep run in the CAF Confederation Cup, the return of Brown Ideye could be the spark the club needs to reclaim its position as one of the dominant forces in African club football.

For Nigerian fans, the signing is a thrilling reminder that their homegrown talent continues to make waves on the international stage—and now, the man who once starred at the 2013 AFCON is set to bring his magic back to Nigeria’s footballing heartland.

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Nigerian midfielder Alex Iwobi was the star of the show at Craven Cottage, scoring a brace in Fulham’s 3-1 victory over Brighton & Hove Albion. 

The win ended Fulham’s three-game Premier League winless streak and saw them climb back into the top half of the table.

Iwobi’s performance was not just pivotal to the victory but also significant on a personal level. His two goals took his season tally to five in just 14 Premier League appearances, equaling his total from last season, where he scored five goals in 30 games for Fulham.

READ MORE: Galatasaray president reveals Victor Osimhen’s transfer plans amid speculation

The midfielder opened the scoring by capitalising on a defensive mistake from Brighton’s goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen, intercepting a wayward pass and slotting into an empty net. Brighton equalised through Carlos Baleba, who fired a stunning 20-yard strike into the far corner after a smart knockdown from João Pedro.

Fulham regained the lead in the second half via a Matt O’Riley own goal, as Andreas Pereira’s corner deflected off the Brighton midfielder into the net. Alex Iwobi then sealed the win late on, showcasing his composure and skill by finding space in the box and driving a low shot past Verbruggen.  

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Iwobi’s form has been crucial for Fulham as they aim to build momentum and push for a European spot.

Brighton, meanwhile, will need to address their defensive vulnerabilities; the remain 5th with 23 points 1 point ahead of 6th place Fulham.

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