By Njoku Chijioke

Nigeria’s Flying Eagles have touched down in Cairo ahead of their campaign at the 2025 Africa U20 Cup of Nations, receiving a warm welcome from the Confederation of African Football at the Jewel Sports City Hotel.

The team was officially briefed by CAF officials on tournament protocols as they settled into their base to fine tune preparations for their crucial opener against Tunisia.

The high-stakes clash will be held at the June 30 Air Defence Stadium in Cairo this Thursday, with kick off slated for 4 pm Nigerian time.

With national pride and continental glory on the line, expectations are high as the seven time champions aim to begin their journey with a strong statement.

By Adenike Lawal

Real Madrid defender Antonio Rüdiger will miss the rest of the season after undergoing surgery to repair a torn meniscus in his left knee, dealing a heavy blow to the club’s LaLiga title hopes and his national team ambitions.

The 32-year-old German international had the procedure on Tuesday under the care of Dr. Manuel Leyes, with the club confirming a two-month recovery period.

This rules him out of Madrid’s final five league matches and throws his participation in the upcoming Club World Cup and Nations League into doubt.

Rüdiger sustained the injury during last weekend’s heated Copa del Rey final loss to rivals Barcelona. Despite playing through intense pain, he was later sent off for throwing an object in protest.

In a heartfelt apology, he admitted his actions were unjustified and revealed he had been struggling with knee pain for over seven months.

“Now I am finally pain free,” Rüdiger posted on Instagram. “The surgery went well. I will take it one week at a time and fight to return for the Club World Cup.”

His absence worsens Real Madrid’s injury crisis, with Éder Militão, Dani Carvajal, Ferland Mendy, and Eduardo Camavinga also sidelined.

Madrid, currently trailing Barcelona by four points, faces Celta Vigo next before a decisive El Clásico showdown.

The Spanish football federation is still reviewing disciplinary action against Rüdiger, but with his recovery already underway, any suspension may have little effect this term.

By Njoku Chijioke

Carlo Ancelotti has sealed a deal with the Brazil Football Federation to take charge of the Selecao after his expected exit from Real Madrid in June.

The seasoned Italian tactician, widely respected for his trophy-laden career, will step into the role ahead of the FIFA Club World Cup, fulfilling a long-standing ambition of the Brazilian football authorities.

According to trusted transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Ancelotti’s appointment marks a bold move by Brazil to reclaim global dominance ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

Despite earlier failed attempts to bring him in for the Copa America, the CBF remained resolute in their pursuit.

Ancelotti is expected to bring a blend of discipline, tactical flair, and winning experience to a national side eager to lift its sixth World Cup trophy.