Sports

Arsenal Crash Out Again as PSG Reach Final

Published

2 weeks ago

May 8, 2025

By Oluwamayowa Fakande

Arsenal’s wait for silverware continues after they were dumped out of the UEFA Champions League semi-final by Paris Saint-Germain, losing 2-1 on the night and 3-1 on aggregate.

The Gunners, who last lifted a major trophy five seasons ago, will end the campaign empty handed once more despite a spirited showing at the Parc des Princes.

PSG, who lost their only previous final in 2020, are now set for another shot at Europe’s biggest prize as they gear up to face Inter Milan at Bayern Munich’s Allianz Arena.

Coming into the second leg trailing by a lone goal from the first leg, Arsenal came out firing. PSG goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma had to be at his best early on, pulling off brilliant saves to deny Gabriel Martinelli and Martin Odegaard.

But against the run of play, Fabian Ruiz put the hosts ahead in the 28th minute after Khvicha Kvaratskhelia had earlier rattled the post.

Bukayo Saka pulled one back in the 76th minute after Hakimi’s brilliant strike had doubled PSG’s lead. The young winger then missed a golden chance moments later to draw Arsenal level on the night, blasting over from close range.

Vitinha had earlier missed a penalty for PSG after a controversial handball call, but it did not matter in the end as the Parisians held firm to book a place in the final.

For Arsenal, it is another season of what could have been.

News

Napoli Blocks Turkish Move for Osimhen

Published

5 hours ago

May 21, 2025

Samson Adeyanju

By Njoku Chijioke

Napoli has rejected a move by Turkish giants Galatasaray and Fenerbahce to land Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen, signaling the club’s firm stance on the forward’s future.

Though figures behind the offer remain under wraps, sources close to the deal suggest the Italian side is not ready to part with their star man unless a compelling package is presented.

Osimhen has drawn attention from several European heavyweights this transfer window, with his name topping many wish lists.

Napoli’s refusal to engage with the Turkish bid sends a strong message – the Nigerian forward is not going anywhere cheaply.

The club is believed to be holding out for a much larger deal or eyeing a strategic replacement before entertaining any sale talks.

As speculation swirls, all eyes remain on Osimhen and what could become one of the summer’s most-watched transfer sagas.

Sports

Chelle Shakes Up Eagles Squad, Drops Osimhen, Lookmam

Published

5 hours ago

May 21, 2025

Samson Adeyanju

By Adenike Lawal

In a move that has stunned fans and analysts alike, Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has left out top strikers Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman from Nigeria’s squad for the upcoming Unity Cup friendlies against Ghana and Russia.

The Nigeria Football Federation confirmed the surprise exclusions on Wednesday, with no official reason given for the absence of the high-flying forwards despite their strong performances at club level.

Chelle’s selection signals a major shift in attacking strategy as the team prepares for two high-profile clashes.

However, there is good news for some as goalkeeper Maduka Okoye returns to the lineup, joined by Frank Onyeka, Kelechi Iheanacho, and veteran skipper Ahmed Musa, who is expected to anchor the squad with his experience.

The omissions have sparked intense debate, with many questioning the timing and tactical reasoning behind sidelining two of Nigeria’s most potent attacking threats.

News

Falcons Set for Showdown with Cameroon

Published

9 hours ago

May 21, 2025

Samson Adeyanju

By Njoku Chijioke

Nigeria’s Super Falcons are primed for two high-profile friendly clashes against the Indomitable Lionesses of Cameroon as part of their buildup to the 2024 Women Africa Cup of Nations.

Coach Justine Madugu has named a strong 23-player squad featuring top stars like Rasheedat Ajibade, Chiamaka Nnadozie, Michelle Alozie, Toni Payne, and Rinsola Babajide.

The matches will hold on May 31 at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne and on June 3 at the MKO Abiola Sports Complex in Abeokuta.

With Nigeria drawn in a challenging AFCON Group B alongside Tunisia, Algeria and Botswana, the double-header against Cameroon offers a vital chance for tactical fine-tuning and team chemistry.

Players are expected to report to camp at the Am2pm Hotel in Ijebu-Ode on May 26 ahead of the fixtures.