Author: Adejuyigbe Francis

NPFL Chairman Commends Successful 2023/2024 Season. The chairman of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), Hon Gbenga Elegbeleye, has expressed his gratitude to all those who contributed to the successful 2023/2024 season. In a heartfelt message, he thanked the Sports Minister, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), NPFL Board members and staff, clubs, and the media for their unwavering support. Elegbeleye praised his board members and staff for their dedication, stating, “Congratulations to all of us for running a successful league season. I never for once doubted our capacity to get it right. Though we are not where we desire,…

Rangers International Sign Teenage Sensation Chimobi Igwilo. Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) champions Rangers International have secured the services of teenage sensation Chimobi Igwilo on a professional contract. (As reported by VON). The highly-rated youngster has signed a three-year deal that will keep him at the Cathedral until 2027. Igwilo is set to bolster the attacking options for Fidelis Ilechukwu’s side as they prepare to defend their title next season. An elated Igwilo described his signing as “a dream come true,” expressing his excitement and commitment to the team. “I have been dreaming of putting on the jersey of…

Marketa Vondrousova Stunned in First-Round Exit at Wimbledon. Marketa Vondrousova’s Wimbledon title defence ended in a shock first-round defeat to Spain’s Jessica Bouzas Maneiro. The Czech player, who made history as the first unseeded woman to win the singles trophy by triumphing over Ons Jabeur in last year’s final, struggled with unforced errors and double faults on Centre Court. World number 83 Bouzas Maneiro, 21, capitalised on Vondrousova’s lacklustre performance to secure her first Grand Slam victory, winning 6-4, 6-2 on Tuesday. Vondrousova’s loss marks the first time since 1994 that the women’s defending champion has exited in…

Merih Demiral’s Historic Brace Sends Turkey to Euro 2024 Quarter-Finals. Merih Demiral scored twice, including the fastest knockout-stage goal in European Championship history, as Turkey stunned Austria to secure a quarter-final clash with the Netherlands. In what was arguably the best game of the tournament so far, a thrilling winner-takes-all encounter played in pouring rain, both teams were driven forward by fervent support. Demiral set the tone by opening the scoring just 57 seconds in, pouncing on a loose ball from Arda Guler’s corner. The goal sent the packed Red Bull Arena in Leipzig into raptures. Demiral then…

Netherlands Reach Euro 2024 Quarter-Finals After 16 Years. Substitute Donyell Malen scored twice and Cody Gakpo added his third goal of Euro 2024, helping the Netherlands overcome a spirited Romania to reach the tournament’s quarter-finals for the first time in 16 years. Liverpool forward Gakpo opened the scoring midway through the first half with a brilliant finish, cutting inside before driving the ball into the bottom corner. Despite missing numerous chances, the Netherlands avoided any potential setbacks when substitute Malen stabbed in a late goal from Gakpo’s pass. Malen then secured the victory with a second goal, charging forward as…

Leah Williamson Highlights Financial Challenges in Women’s Football. Arsenal and England defender Leah Williamson has candidly addressed the financial disparities in women’s football, revealing her own concerns about post-playing career prospects. In a recent interview, Williamson highlighted the need for growth and development within the women’s game to ensure future generations do not face the same challenges. “There are some elements of the women’s game that need to catch up,” Williamson stated. “I’m not earning enough to retire after my playing career, so I’m still aiming to complete my accountancy studies in case I need something to fall back on.”…

Paul Pogba Dismisses Retirement Rumours, Vows to Fight for His Career. Paul Pogba has firmly dismissed any rumours of retirement and declared his determination to continue his football career. Speaking to Sky Sport after watching the Round of 16 clash between France and Belgium, the midfielder expressed his optimism and commitment to the sport, despite currently serving a ban. “I’m still a football player,” Pogba said. “Don’t look at that stuff saying I’m retiring, I’m finished… I wanna fight for my career, I’m optimistic.” The 31-year-old, who has faced a challenging period with injuries and now a doping…

Cristiano Ronaldo Confirms Euro 2024 Will Be His Last. Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed that Euro 2024 will be his final European Championship, but the Portuguese superstar remains as enthusiastic as ever about representing his country. Speaking ahead of Portugal’s quarter-final clash, Ronaldo expressed his commitment to the national team and his desire to give his best for the fans. “This will be my last Euro, of course,” Ronaldo said. “But I’m not moved by this; I’m moved by enthusiasm.” Ronaldo, who has been a pivotal figure for Portugal throughout his career, acknowledged the emotional toll of his…

Ronaldo in Tears but Portugal Prevail in Dramatic Shootout to Reach Euro 2024 Quarter-Finals. Cristiano Ronaldo was left in tears after his penalty was saved in extra time, but Portugal still progressed to the quarter-finals of Euro 2024 with a dramatic shootout victory over Slovenia. Portugal’s captain saw his penalty saved by Atletico Madrid goalkeeper Jan Oblak, prompting emotional scenes as his team-mates consoled him while fans chanted his name. However, Ronaldo recovered to score his country’s first penalty in the shootout. Goalkeeper Diogo Costa then made three consecutive saves, and Manchester City’s Bernardo Silva netted the winning kick,…

Kennedy Boboye Wins NPFL Coach of the Month Award. Sunshine Stars head coach, Kennedy Boboye, has been named the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Coach of the Month for May/June. Boboye’s exceptional performance during this period earned him the prestigious accolade, outshining competitors such as Bayelsa United’s Meremu Okara, Niger Tornadoes’ Majin Mohammed, and Rangers’ Fidelis Ilechukwu. Under Boboye’s leadership, Sunshine Stars delivered impressive performances, showcasing tactical prowess and resilience. His strategic acumen and ability to motivate his team were key factors which propelled Sunshine Stars from relegation spot to a respectable mid-table finish. In the same period,…

Nigeria Tennis Federation Opens Camp for 2024 Davis Cup. The Nigeria Tennis Federation (NTF) has announced the official opening of its camp for Nigerian players participating in the 2024 Davis Cup. This information was disclosed by the NTF Secretary-General, Shammah Makpa, during an interview in Abuja. The Davis Cup, which is an Africa Group III qualifying round, is scheduled to take place from July 15 to 20 at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja. Makpa highlighted the federation’s extensive preparations for hosting the event. “This is our first time hosting the event in Abuja, and the NTF…

Late Own Goal by Vertonghen Sends France into Euro 2024 Quarter-Finals. A late own goal by Jan Vertonghen secured France’s place in the quarter-finals of Euro 2024 at Belgium’s expense. The match, which lacked quality and excitement for much of its duration, seemed destined for extra time. However, with five minutes remaining, a shot by substitute Randal Kolo Muani deflected off Vertonghen, sealing the 1-0 victory at Düsseldorf Arena. France, despite missing several chances, managed to break through due to this stroke of luck. Even captain Kylian Mbappe, known for his clinical finishing, missed opportunities he would typically convert. Belgium…