Author: Tunde Bayewu

20Apr By Tunde BayewuNo Comments

Sports

“Nasarawa United Breaks Free: Mangut Celebrates End of Winless Drought in NPFL!”

Nasarawa United's technical strategist Mbwas Mangut was pleased to witness his squad return to victory in the Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL, according to NAIJATAB. The Solid Miners concluded their three-match winless period with a convincing 3-0 triumph over Warri Wolves at the Lafia City Stadium on Sunday. Chimezie Victor scored the opener for the home team from the penalty spot three minutes before halftime. Substitute Ngei Oluka-Efor and Habibu Alakija contributed two additional goals for the home side in the second half. “Kudos to everyone in the team. It’s somewhat a relief for us because we put ourselves in this predicament, even though this isn’t the position we aimed to be in,” Mangut expressed to the club’s media. Nasarawa United remains in sixth place in the standings ...

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20Apr By Tunde BayewuNo Comments

Sports

Iheanacho’s Thrilling Contribution Sends Celtic to Scottish Cup Final!

Kelechi Iheanacho cannot conceal his enthusiasm after assisting Celtic in securing a spot in the final of the Scottish Cup, NAIJATAB reports. The Nigerian international emerged from the bench to net twice in extra-time as Celtic overwhelmed St Mirren 6-2. Iheanacho has now found the back of the net six times across all competitions for the Hoops this season. Celtic took the lead twice, but St Mirren fought back to bring the match into extra-time. Iheanacho, however, proved decisive for the Celts in the resounding triumph. “I can’t fully articulate how I feel right now. I’m incredibly joyful. Obviously, there was a bit of anxiety in the second half when they scored,” the 29-year-old stated to Celtic TV. Celtic will clash with Dunfermline Athletic in the final on Saturday, 23 May....

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19Apr By Tunde BayewuNo Comments

Sports

“Setback for Onyedika as Club Brugge Falls to Union St. Gilloise”

Raphael Onyedika experienced an injury during Club Brugge’s 2-1 loss to Union St.Gilloise in their Belgian Pro League encounter on Sunday. Onyedika was substituted by captain Hans Vanaken in the 68th minute following the injury. Brugge will hope that the Nigeria international’s injury is not severe as they aim to initiate a title pursuit in the concluding weeks of the season. The defensive midfielder is regarded as a crucial player for the previous champions. Brugge currently holds the second spot on the table with 38 points. They will welcome KV Mechelen in their next league match on Wednesday.

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19Apr By Tunde BayewuNo Comments

Sports

“PSG Set to Snatch Arsenal Sensation!”

Paris Saint-Germain have expressed their interest in acquiring Arsenal’s Gabriel Martinelli. As per the French publication L’Equipe, PSG have included Martinelli on their shortlist as they seek to strengthen their offensive lineup ahead of the summer transfer window. The article noted that Luis Campos, the club’s football consultant, has already engaged in discussions with the Brazilian’s agents regarding a possible transfer to the French capital. Furthermore, PSG have also explored a transaction for RB Leipzig’s highly regarded 19-year-old winger Yan Diomande, who is similarly garnering attention from Manchester United and Liverpool. Martinelli, who joined Arsenal from Brazilian side Ituano for merely £6 million back in 2019, is presently in his seventh season at the Emirates Stadium. ...

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19Apr By Tunde BayewuNo Comments

Sports

“Rosenior Reveals Chelsea’s Path to Champions League Glory: A Closer Look”

Chelsea manager, Liam Rosenior, has asserted that his squad now faces a significant challenge regarding qualification for the UEFA Champions League next season. Rosenior addressed the media during his post-match discussion following Chelsea’s Premier League 1-0 loss to Manchester United on Saturday at Stamford Bridge. This result places the Blues in 6th position on the Premier League standings with 48 points from 33 fixtures. Rosenior’s team trails behind Liverpool, Aston Villa, Man United, Man City, and Arsenal on the standings. Commenting on his team's prospects of attaining a Champions League position for the upcoming season, Rosenior stated after the match against United, “This outcome presents us with a significant challenge. “We must enter the Brighton (match on Tuesday) realizing...

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19Apr By Tunde BayewuNo Comments

Sports

“EPL Spotlight: Shay Given Praises Chukwueze’s Stellar Talent”

Former Premier League goalkeeper, Shay Given has expressed his esteem for the qualities of Nigerian winger, Samuel Chukwueze following Fulham’s scoreless tie against Brentford on Saturday. Chukwueze, presently on loan at Fulham from AC Milan, was introduced onto the pitch prior to halftime after his compatriot, Alex Iwobi had to exit due to a suspected hamstring strain. In a conversation on Premier League Productions, Given highlighted Chukwueze’s attacking prowess and conveyed optimism regarding his influence on the game. “Chukwueze has come into the match. I appreciate him as well; he is truly an offensive player. You can anticipate witnessing similar link-up interactions in the second half,” Given stated. “At the very least, a touch of thrill is required because the first half has bee...

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19Apr By Tunde BayewuNo Comments

Sports

“Champions League Dreams Diminish as Chelsea Falls 1-0 to Man Utd”

Chelsea’s aspirations of securing a spot in the Champions League suffered a significant setback on Saturday, following a 1-0 loss to Manchester United. The Blues approached the match aiming to avoid back-to-back defeats at home after being overwhelmed 3-0 by Manchester City the previous Sunday. Matheus Cunha’s swift strike just before half-time proved sufficient for Michael Carrick’s team. The outcome also allows the Red Devils to strengthen their hold on third place in the Premier League. Nevertheless, it leaves Chelsea even further away from the top five positions, which would be adequate for entry into Europe’s elite tournament. Chelsea’s upcoming league match is an away game against Brighton in the middle of the week.

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18Apr By Tunde BayewuNo Comments

Sports

“Joe Cole Champions Two Game-Changers for Chelsea’s Young Talent in the EPL!”

Ex-Chelsea player, Joe Cole, desires his former club to acquire Barcelona’s Robert Lewandowski and Manchester City’s John Stones. Cole suggested that both players would greatly enhance Liam Rosenior’s team by assisting the younger talents at Chelsea. In a discussion with Metro, the Englishman articulated that Lewandowski, set to be a free agent when his contract with Barça concludes, could guide young forwards Liam Delap and João Pedro. “We require experience—someone to arrive and aid the younger players. I’d be considering Lewandowski. He’s a prominent figure. I believe he could truly assist João Pedro and Liam Delap,” Cole remarked. He also proposed the notion of bringing in Stones if City allows his contract to expire. “He’s another who could be a significant influence in the locker ...

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18Apr By Tunde BayewuNo Comments

Sports

Iwobi’s Setback: Injury Woes Amidst Fulham-Brentford Standoff

Alex Iwobi endured an injury in Fulham’s London derby stalemate with Brentford on Saturday, NAIJATAB reports. Iwobi hobbled off, experiencing discomfort in his hamstring just before half-time. The adaptable midfielder was substituted by his compatriot Samuel Chukwueze. Iwobi marked his 255th Premier League appearance in the fiercely contested match. Fulham manager Marco Silva will be hopeful that the 29-year-old has not sustained a severe injury, as the Whites strive for a position in European competition. He has tallied four goals and three assists in 27 league outings for Fulham this season.

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18Apr By Tunde BayewuNo Comments

Sports

“Udinese’s Okoye Aims for Milestone: 10th Clean Sheet in Clash Against Parma”

Maduka Okoye aims to achieve his 10th clean sheet of the season as Udinese faces Parma at the Bluenergy Stadium. Okoye has successfully prevented opposing forwards from scoring in Udinese’s previous three league encounters. This marks the initial occasion that the goalkeeper has maintained three consecutive clean sheets in his career. In total, he has accumulated nine clean sheets across 24 league games this season. An additional clean sheet against Parma would enable Okoye to match his personal record, which he set during the 2020/21 season with Sparta Rotterdam. The 26-year-old achieved 10 clean sheets in 28 matches for the Eredivisie team.

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18Apr By Tunde BayewuNo Comments

Sports

“Lookman Aims for Triumph: Atletico’s Quest for Copa del Rey Glory Against Sociedad”

Ademola Lookman is set to pursue his initial trophy with Atlético Madrid when Colchoneros face Real Sociedad in the Copa del Rey final on Saturday (today). The match is scheduled to take place at the Estadio de la Cartuja. Lookman transitioned to the Red and Whites from Serie A club, Atalanta in January, and has rapidly become an essential player at the organization. The Nigerian international has thus far netted six goals and provided four assists in 17 matches across all competitions for Atlético. Lookman also contributed significantly to Diego Simeone’s squad's journey to the final, scoring crucial goals in victories over Real Betis and Barcelona. The winger boasts two goals and two assists in three matches in the Copa del Rey. He has previously secured just one title at the club lev...

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18Apr By Tunde BayewuNo Comments

Sports

Bundesliga Showdown: Agu’s Status Shrouded in Mystery Ahead of Bremen vs. Hamburg Clash

Super Eagles defender Felix Agu is uncertain for Werder Bremen’s Bundesliga matchup against Hamburg, NAIJATAB reports According to details available on the club’s official site, Agu is dealing with a muscular issue. The full-back has faced challenges with injuries this season, limiting his playtime for the Greens. Agu has participated in 11 league matches for Bremen this season, registering one assist to his credit. Werder Bremen and Hamburg will face off in the 110th Bundesliga North Derby at the Weser Stadium on Saturday.

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17Apr By Tunde BayewuNo Comments

Sports

Iwobi’s Journey: Embracing Nigeria Over England – An Insider’s Story

Alex Iwobi has expressed how he decided to represent the Super Eagles. On the Beast Mode On podcast, Iwobi recounted how former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger advised him to carefully contemplate his options, suggesting he might wait before joining England’s senior squad. Though Iwobi participated in multiple youth teams for England, his progress was hindered due to limited opportunities with Arsenal’s first team. Nonetheless, his trajectory shifted when Nigeria invited him to be part of their Olympic team. After discussions with his family, Iwobi opted to pursue the opportunity. He remarked, “I began representing Nigeria at the age of 19. I had played for the England Under-16, Under-17, and Under-18 squads, but my chances dwindled as I wasn't receiving consistent first-team play at Arse...

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17Apr By Tunde BayewuNo Comments

Sports

Arteta Breaks Silence: Heartfelt Response to Manninger’s Passing

Arsenal's head coach, Mikel Arteta, has responded to the passing of the club’s former goalkeeper, Alex Manninger. Arteta characterized the announcement of Manninger’s death, who died at the age of 48 on Thursday, as surprising and mournful. He addressed the topic when inquired about Manninger’s passing during his pre-match press briefing on Friday, preceding Arsenal’s Premier League clash with Manchester City this weekend. “Some extremely unfortunate news, clearly. We extend our condolences and affection to his family and a part of his journey. “It was astonishing news and challenging to comprehend,” Arteta remarked on Manninger’s passing.

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17Apr By Tunde BayewuNo Comments

Sports

“UCL Chaos: Bayern’s Stanisic Critiques Referee After Camavinga’s Costly Red Card”

Bayern Munich athlete Josip Stanisic has claimed that Real Madrid’s Eduardo Camavinga ought not to have been expelled during their UEFA Champions League match, while also rebuking referee Slavko Vincic for his ruling. His comments emerged after Bayern prevailed against Los Blancos with a scoreline of 4-3 in the second leg of the quarter-finals on April 15. With Madrid leading 3-2 in the 62nd minute, Alvaro Arbeloa opted to bring in Eduardo Camavinga to positively sway the encounter. However, just moments later, Camavinga was awarded an undeserving yellow card for a reckless challenge. He was later given a second yellow card and ejected in the 86th minute for time-wasting, as he decided to maintain control of the ball after a free-kick was called against him. Following their reduction to...

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17Apr By Tunde BayewuNo Comments

Sports

“UCL Showdown: Keown Reveals Arsenal’s Ultimate Threat to Trophy Dreams”

Ex-Arsenal athlete, Martin Keown, has proposed that if the squad aims to secure the Champions League title, they should steer clear of confronting Paris Saint-Germain in the final. Keown mentioned he would prefer Mikel Arteta’s squad to encounter Bayern Munich rather than Paris Saint-Germain. Arsenal has already triumphed over Bayern 3-1 during the group phase of the tournament. Bayern are positioned on the opposite side of the bracket and are scheduled to challenge PSG in the semi-finals. Keown expressed to TNT Sports, “I believe Bayern will progress from that side of the bracket. Therefore, an Arsenal-Bayern final.” He further stated, “I would still favor Arsenal facing Bayern because of PSG’s pace, which is exceptionally strong.”

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16Apr By Tunde BayewuNo Comments

Sports

“NNL Showdown: Sporting Lagos Secures Spot in NPFL!”

Sporting Lagos have attained advancement to the Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL, following a 1-0 triumph over Osun United, as reported by NAIJATAB. Alex Leme netted the pivotal goal in the 17th minute of the match which occurred on Thursday. Jeffrey Butler’s squad is making a comeback to the NPFL after a two-year absence. Sporting Lagos topped the Conference B standings with 36 points from 18 matches. Akwa United finished in the second spot despite a 2-1 win over Solution FC. The Promise Keepers initiated scoring with Aniebiet Sunday in the 50th minute. Michael Okenwa further extended the lead three minutes later. Solution FC trimmed the gap towards the latter stages of the match. Inter Lagos and Doma United have already secured their promotions to the NPFL.

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16Apr By Tunde BayewuNo Comments

Sports

Mikel Slams Barcelona for Deflecting Blame, Celebrates Lookman’s Brilliance in UCL Showdown

Former Chelsea midfielder, John Obi Mikel, has expressed his disapproval of Barcelona following their performance against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League quarter-final second leg on Tuesday. The ex-Super Eagles captain also praised Ademola Lookman for his performance against Hansi Flick’s squad as Atletico Madrid progressed to the Champions League semi-final phase. In an interview with Mundo Deportivo discussing the match, Mikel responded to Barcelona’s grievances. “Atletico Madrid dominated. Ademola Lookman rose to the occasion and determined the Champions League fixture, while Barcelona players were preoccupied with shaking hands with the referee as if he was going to alter the score for them,” Mikel stated. “Barcelona couldn't rebound against Atletico Madrid on two separate in...

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16Apr By Tunde BayewuNo Comments

Sports

“Vinicius Jr. Responds to Bellingham: Real Madrid’s Shocking UCL Exit!”

There was a moment of strain between the Real Madrid pair of Vinicius Jr and Jude Bellingham, as they exited the Champions League against Bayern Munich on Wednesday. The occurrence transpired prior to Eduardo Camavinga receiving a second yellow card. Vinicius seized the ball and maneuvered towards goal in the 83rd minute, while Bellingham sprinted into the penalty area seeking a pass. However, Vinicius’ subpar control led to him being swiftly pressured by Dayot Upamecano and, unable to deliver the pass, he infuriated Bellingham, who expressed his dissatisfaction to the Brazilian. Vinicius was subsequently captured on camera reacting to Bellingham vehemently: “What do you desire? What do you desire? Be quiet and close your mouth.” Madrid was in front 3-2 with the aggregate score locked a...

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16Apr By Tunde BayewuNo Comments

Sports

Kimmich Picks His Top Two Teams as UCL Semi-Finals Approach!

Bayern Munich midfielder, Joshua Kimmich, has identified the finest two teams remaining in the Champions League. Kimmich was conversing with DAZN, after their exhilarating 4-3 victory over Real Madrid in the second leg of their quarter-final encounter. The outcome enabled the Bundesliga champions to advance into the semis with a 6-4 total win. They will now compete against Paris Saint-Germain for a slot in the final, while the other semi-final features Arsenal facing Atletico Madrid. Kimmich stated: “I don’t believe tonight showcased a top display. It wasn’t our greatest match. “Nonetheless, we’re thrilled with the victory. We cannot overlook that we triumphed on the evening as well. “We’ve reached the final four with two victories. And I am convinced the finest teams in Europe are abou...

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