EPL UPDATES: Allison blow for Liverpool as host beat Norwich City 4-1 in league opener.

Liverpool kicked off the new Premier League season with a comfortable  4-1 victory over newly promoted Norwich City at Anfield.

 Jurgen Klopp's men wasted no time in setting about getting maximum points, with Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk adding to Grant Hanley's comical own goal within the opening 30 minutes.

Divock Origi made it four in the 42nd minute on his 100th Reds appearance but Jurgen Klopp's side were unable to add to their tally nor keep a clean sheet as Norwich City striker Teemu Pukki netted a consolation strike for the newly promoted side.

However, Liverpool will hope that their number one would be back on time after lossing goalkeeper Alisson to injury, as the Brazilian had to be replaced by debutant Adrian in the first half. The shoot-stopper looked  to have suffered a problem with his right calf when taking a routine goal-kick, seven minutes before half-time. As the game briefly continued, Alisson signalled immediately to the bench and, after a lengthy delay, was helped from the field by Andy Massey, the club doctor.

The home side  got off to a flying start when Origi's cross from the left wing was diverted into the back of the net by Norwich captain Hanley in the seventh minute.

Marco Stiepermann wasted a second decent chance to get the Canaries on the board and they were punished when Roberto Firmino teed up Salah to slide a cool finish past Tim Krul.

Norwich continued to threaten but Van Dijk made light work of shaking off Jamal Lewis to power in a header from Salah's corner.

Despite losing Alisson to injury, Liverpool remained in the ascendancy and took a four-goal lead into half-time when Origi nodded Trent Alexander-Arnold's fine delivery home.

Krul tipped a shot from Jordan Henderson onto the crossbar early in the second half and, after Salah kept the ball alive and played in Alexander-Arnold with a delightful backheel, Firmino was unable to convert fronm the England defender's cutback.

Moritz Leitner rattled the upright with a swerving effort as the Canaries regained some courage and they were rewarded when Pukki found the bottom-left corner lashing into a lovely through ball by Emiliano Buendia for a consolation. 

Alexander-Arnold's powerful free-kick was saved well by Krul in the 85th minute and Adrian kept out Onel Hernandez in stoppage time as Liverpool comfortably saw out a routine victory.

AFON 2019 MATCH REPORT: Eagles beat South Africa to book semi-final place

Super Eagles soared high into the semi finals of the 2019 AFCON after beating South Africa 2-1 in the quarter finals of the ongoing tournament in Egypt. Two strikes in either halves by  Samuel Chukwueze and Williams Troost Ekong was enough  to to seal Nigeria qualifications  
Super Eagles coach, Gernot Rohr made two changes to the made two changes to the starting XI, that played against  the indomitable lions with Nigerian young talented forward Samuel Chukwueze returning to the starting lineup for the second time in the competition while Jamilu Collins started in place of Torino left back Ola Aina.
Nigeria looked th better side very early into the game as the kept pressurising the South Africans, the pressure eventually paid off in the 27 minute after a wonderful play from Ahmed Musa and Alex Iwobi on the left wing.  The Arsenal’s forward cross was met with a first attempt from Samuel Chukwueze but was blocked from the centre of the box before his second strike hits the back of the net to give Nigeria the lead.
Rohr’s men looked to increase their tally as  Chukwueze had his attempt sail way over the bar with the Villarreal  man continously tormenting the Bafana Bafana defenders  when he failed to connect with his teammates as the super eagles dominated for the large part of the first half.
Nigeria started the second 45 minutes in the same vein they ended the first. Stoke city midfielder Oghenekaro Etebo had his neatly struck freekick saved by  goalkeeper Ronwen Williams.
The tie wasn't over yet as South Africa levelled up from their first shot on target in the 71st minute from Bongani Zungu header from the left side of the six yard box to Zungu who sends a wonderful header into the net following a set-piece but immediately there is a VAR check after the assistant first ruled the goal as offside. Replays show the ball came off the back of Nigeria’s Ighalo before Zungu planted his header. There was a delay of two to three minutes before South Africans can celebrate their goal.

Super Eagles got the lead back few minutes from the final whistle. William Troost-Ekong right footed shot from very close range to the bottom right corner. Assisted by Moses Simon with a cross following a corner.

AFCON 2019 MATCH REPORT : Tunisia vs Ghana (Pen. 5-4)

Tunisia will now face tournament surprise package Madagascar in the quarter final in Al Salaam on Thursday after substitute keeper Farouk Ben Mustapha proved a gamble which eventually payed off when head coach Alaine Giresse brought him on for the penalties, as he saved Caleb Ekuban spot-kick.

Tunisia took the lead in the 72nd minute courtesy of a Taha Khenissi goal, before  Substitute Rami Bedoui scored an own goal at the stroke of full time to change the face of the encounter,sendin the game into extra time after he dipped a header beyond his keeper Hassen Mouez as he deflected Mubarak Wakaso's freekick.

Ghana who had the best scoring chances felt as though they should have gone ahead before the break but had a late first half goal disallowed, after skipper Andre Ayew back-heeled the ball into the net off his brother Jordan’s cross, but the goal was disallowed for a handball in the build-up.

Ghana had another close chance quarter of an hour into the game when Kasim’s header from a Wakaso corner struck the upright while Andre Ayew had his effort from the rebound saved by the keeper.

Prior to the own goal, Tunisia came close to taking the lead when Khazri cut back a cross from the left for Khenissi to shoot home, but his effort was blocked by Nuhu Kasim.

In the 70th minute, Khazri swung in a corner from the right met by Khenissi again, this time the striker’s effort struck the crossbar.

But two minutes later, his industry paid off when he won the ball on the right before playing Wajdi Kechrida through with the right back’s low cross into the box being turned home beyond Richard Ofori by Khenissi.

With Tunisia’s late own goal, the game was forced into extra time and even then, it was a full contest despite the tired legs. Khazri forced off a great save from Ofori with a strong shot from the edge of the area.

Asamoah Gyan who was a late second half substitute brushed a header his way,with the ball going wide.

Before heading into the penalties with the Tunisian substitute goal keeper Farouk  Ben Mustapha  being the hero of the night saving a spot kick which gave North Africans the advantage.

Eagles should be wary of Tau and Lorch threat - Okocha

Former Super eagles captain Jay-Jay Okocha has stated his worries about the damage South Africa duo Percy Tau and Thembinkosi Lorch could cause the Super Eagles defence in Wednesday's Afcon 2019 quarter-final fixture at the Cairo International Stadium with a semi-final ticket up for grasp in the continental showpiece.

Stuart Baxter's side knocked out the host nation Egypt in the Round of 16 match on Saturday, Okocha while speaking  with on SABC FOOTBALL, has picked out match-winner Lorch and Tau as Bafana's threats to the Super Eagles' progress.

"I believe in the team but I'm worried about Lorch and Tau, they look the most dangerous players for Bafana Bafana going forward and they have been instrumental, especially in the last game. Lorch made his debut and he justified his selection, so these are two players I'm worried about". Okocha said.

Speaking about his expectations from the encounter, he also added; 

"It will be a great match and the good thing is that both teams found good form at the right time but of course, as a Nigerian, I will like to see Nigeria go through.

"I will also like to see a good derby match, a match that will represent African football, a classic Afcon match but at the end of the day, let us narrowly win the game."

Nigeria and South Africa have played on 13 occasions, with the Super Eagles winning five while Bafana have won just four, although Baxter's men are unbeaten in the previous five meetings. Both nations most recent meetings was during the qualifying rounds for Afcon 2019, with Gernot Rohr's men claimed a 1-1 draw  last November in Johannesburg. 

[New] WOMEN WORLD CUP FINAL HIGHLIGHTS : USA 2 vs NETHERLANDS 0

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WOMEN WORLD CUP: USA beat Netherland to win fourth world cup

Megan Rapinoe struck a 61st-minute penalty before Rose Lavelle netted a fine solo goal as the United States beat European champions Netherlands 2-0 to become Women's World Cup winners for the fourth time.

Reign FC forward Rapinoe scored the opening goal in the encounter and her sixth goal of the tournament to ensure Jill Ellis' side successfully defended their title at the expense of a Netherlands team that fought bravely to overcome their underdogs tag but ultimately came up short. The goal, which came after a VAR review showed Netherland's Stefanie van der Gragt's foul on Alex Morgan. The spot kick brought Rapinoe level with Morgan and England's Ellen White in the goalscoring stakes, while Netherlands forward Lieke Martens cut a frustrated figure as the Dutch struggled to create chances.

Lavelle provided the best moment of an entertaining clash in Lyon when she carried the ball from the centre circle to the edge of the box before producing a classy finish to her solo run, the quality of which reflected everything fans at this World Cup have come to expect from its dominant team.

[New] AFCON 2019 VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS : South Africa 1 vs Egypt 0

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AFCON 2019 MATCH REPORT : Bafana Bafana shocks host to book quarter-final place

South Africa left it late at the Cairo international stadium as they defeated Hosts nation and favourites Egypt 1-0 to book a place in the quarter finals against Nigeria.

Orlando Pirates forward Thembinkosi Lorch was the hero in Cairo as his strike in the dyeing minutes if the encounter proved to be more than enough to secure South Africa's passage into the next round at the expense of the North Africans.

Egypt had the first opportunity of the match in the fourth minute when captain Ahmed El-Mohamady delivered the ball in to the box with the ball rebounding back off Thulani Hlatshwayo straight to Mohamed Salah, whose left-footed effort went slightly wide off the left-hand upright.

Bafana had theirs too with decent attempt on goal in the 15th minute when they quickly broke on the counter-attack throuhg Percy Tau, who cut inside on to his left foot and struck a powerful effort towards goal but went straight at Pharaohs' goalkeeper Mohamed El-Shenawy who saved comfortably.

 

Bafana continued to grow as the game progressed, as they won a free-kick in a promising position in the 21st minute when Kamohelo Mokotjo was brought down by Trezeguet on the edge of the box. Tau curled a beauty towards the top right-hand corner forcing El-Shenawy into a brilliantly tipped save.

 The Pharaohs responded swiftly on the counter-attack through Salah, who fed an unmarked Trezeguet who shot straight at Ronwen Williams from the angle. Shortly before the half-hour mark, Mkhize played the ball in to the box for Lorch after Tau had sold an intelligent dummy, but the Absa Premiership player of the Season dragged his effort wide of the right-hand upright.

 

Lorch then found room at the back post and fired a volley away at goal but it was bravely blocked. Soon after, Mokotjo skimmed an effort along the turf that went inches wide of the right-hand upright after being assisted by Mothiba.

 

It was all Egypt at the beginning of the second half and Trezeguet should have scored in the 57th minute when Salah released him with a lovely through ball in to the box but he could only side-foot the ball first-time straight at Williams, who made a routine save.

 

Bafana won a free-kick on the right flank in the 70th minute when Mokotjo was felled by Ayman Ashraf. Lorch whipped in the set-piece to the back post where Hlatshwayo rose above his marker but headed wide of the right-hand upright.

 

Soon after, Bafana played some slick one-touch football with Mkhize threading the final pass through for Lorch, whose effort was straight at El-Shenawy from the angle.

 

With five minutes to go, Bafana scored what would ultimately be the winner. A brilliant counter-attack released Mothiba down the right flank, who squared the ball for Lorch before the Orlando Pirates coolly slotted the ball around El-Shenawy and in to the bottom left-hand corner.

AFCON 2019 MATCH REPORT: Nigeria comes from behind to beat Cameroon in five-goal thriller

It was a feisty affair at the Alexandria Stadium, Egypt as the Super eagles took on the indomitable lions of Cameroon in the round of 16 match. 

The game lived up to its billings as both teams starting with the front foot as they looked for an early lead. But it was the Nigerians who broke the dead-lock in the 20th minute, thanks to a deflected effort from striker Odion Ighalo before their west African counter-part responded in style as Stephane Bahoken side-footed a Christian bassogog's cross  and Clinton Njie added the second as Seedorf's  men ran to 2-1 lead at half-time.

After the break, Gernot Rohr's men came in search of the equalizer as they look more spirited and hungry as two goals in three minutes swung the game back in Nigeria's favour, as winger Ahmed Musa chest down Awaziem's cross for Ighalo to volley-in his second for the evening, with the striker also returning such favour as he played a nice pass through the legs of a Cameroonian defender to assist Iwobi's winner to set up a quarter-final with the Bafana bafana,who stunned the host 1-0 in the second fixture.

Nigeria also had been on the receiving end of an upset in their previous game, a 2-0 defeat by Madagascar in their final group match, ensured they weren't going to come out top of the group prior to their round of 16 match. 

They produced their best performance of the tournament to end hopes of retaining the title they won in Gabon in 2017.

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[New] AFCON 2019 VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS : Nigeria 3 vs Cameroun 2

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Alisson set Golden glove record

Liverpool and Brazil number one Alisson Becker have set the record for the First shot-stopper to have won three Golden glove in one season. For club and country, Alisson has kept clean sheets in his last nine games.The 26-year old kept more clean sheets than any other goalkeeper in the Premier League with 21, despite Liverpool  losing out on the title to eventual winners Manchester City by a lone point.

The Brazilian also kept more clean sheets than any other goalkeeper in this  season's Champions League, helping them secure the sixth European trophy which meant Alisson had collected two Golden Glove awards and that tally has now been increased to three at the Copa America.

Host Brazil are yet to concede a goal in their five games thanks to his brilliant performance between the sticks, meaning Alisson will scoop the accolade at the end of the tournament regardless of the result against Peru in the final.

As such, Alisson is now the first goalkeeper in football history to win three separate Golden Glove awards in a single season.

Both Alisson and Virgil van Dijk have been the key men in the Reds' rapid rise to the top of the European football under Jurgen Klopp.

Ospina joins Napoli

Arsenal goalkeeper David Ospina has completed a permanent move to Series A with Napoli the English club confirmed on Thursday.

Ospina, joined Napoli on a loan deal at the start of the 2018-19 season after finding his first-team opportunities with the Gunners further limited by the arrival of Bernd Leno. 

And after making 24 appearances for the Italians in his first campaign the Colombian, who represented his nation in this summer's Copa America before being eliminated by Chile in  the quarter finals.The shot stopper would now make a €3.5 million move to Napoli. 

Ospina played as an understudy to veteran goalkeeper Petr Cech for most of his time with the gunners, and was restricted to less than 10 Premier League appearances for each of his final three seasons before swapping north London for Naples. With Cech also stepping down at the end of last season, Leno is expected to be deputised by Argentine shot-stopper Emiliano Martinez in 2019-20.



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Tottenham have confirmed the signing of Lyon midfielder Tanguy Ndombele in a record transfer of €60 million for the club via their twitter account.

The 22-year-old France international Ndombele joins on a six-year contract, following through  as the North Londoner's second signing after wrapping up the deal for Leeds winger Jack Clarke who would be sent back on loan to the championship club  as Mauricio Pochettino looks to improve his squad.

The initial fee could rise to about €70 million (£63m/$79m) in bonuses for the young midfielder who enjoyed two superb seasons with the French outfit after being  signed from Ligue 1 team Amiens for just €8 million (£7.2m/$9m) two seasons ago. Since then, he has been an integral part of Lyon midfield set-up, making almost 100 appearances in all competitions for Lyon and established himself as their star man, finishing last season with three goals and eight assists in all competitions.

Ndombele addition however would mean well considering his ability to break through defense lines with his dribble, skill and power considering the possibility of losing one of their  midfield players as reports continue  to make the rounds about the uncertainty surrounding the future of Denmark international Christian Eriksen, who had been heavily linked with a move away from North London, with teams such as Real Madrid and Liverpool keeping a close eye on the 27-year old Danish. 

AFCON 2019: Group winners and Lossers as stage is set for round of 16

Having completed all group stage  matches in the on-going Africa cup of nations (AFCON)held in Egypt, group leaders have already emerged from each group  as well as second placed teams who also have been guaranteed qualifications into the round of 16.

However, 14 countries have automatically progressed into the round of 16, while 7 countries have been eliminated  as a result  of not being  able to qualify as group best lossers, after their campaign in the nations tournament have been ended.
Countries that have progressed into the round of 16 from their  respective groups include:

Group A: Egypt [host], Uganda, DR Congo

Group B: Madagascar, Nigeria, Guinea

Group C: Algeria, Senegal

Group D: Morocco, Ivory Coast

Group E:TBC

Group F: Ghana, Cameroon, Benin


Let's take a look at each group and which country have been eliminated:

Group A: Zimbabwe

Group B: Burundi

Group C: Kenya, Tanzania

Group D: Namibia

Group E: TBC

Group F: Guinea-Bissau



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Juve completes Rabiot signing

Italian giant Juventus have completed the signing of Adrien Rabiot, the club announced

The midfielder joins the Italian champions on a free transfer after his contract with Paris Saint Germain expired, having completed his medical Monday. 

Juve did not disclose any details about the French midfielder's deal, but he will be presented to the media on Tuesday. 

Reports have had it that the 24-year-old midfielder had agreed  a five-year deal worth around €7 million per year with the Turin club, with his mother and agent, Veronique, set to pocket a commission of  around €10m.

Rabiot had been heavily linked with a number of high-profile clubs which kind include  Liverpool, Barcelona, Tottenham and Manchester United after he was frozen out by PSG in the second half of the 2018-19 campaign.

He made 227 appearances for the first-team but his last game was in December 2018, having been frozen out of the team. While reports suggest the suspension was due to Rabiot's looming departure, coach Thomas Tuchel insisted it was due to his individual performance for the club.  

The return of sporting director Leonardo to PSG sparked reports that Rabiot could be set to renew his contract at Parc des Princes but his mother and agent, Veronique, made it clear there was no going back on his decision to leave the French giants.

Arsenal roll back time in new kit unveil

Arsenal have unveiled their new kit for the 2019-20 campaign with the squad embracing London's vibrant culture.

The Gunners in partnership with kit maker Adidas for the first time in 25 years, having enjoyed partnership with Puma, and the team's new strip represents a re-imagining of the club's popular 1990s look.

The iconic three stripe design has been stretched to run along the shoulders and across the collar, with the conventional logo placed on the right side of the chest.

Arsenal officially announced the fresh home jersey with a promotional video on social media, which sees club legend Ian Wright narrating while walking through the streets of London. A number of stars appear in the short clip, starting with Ozil, who shows off a new haircut in a barbershop with Sead Kolasinac.

Striking duo of Alexandre Lacazette and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang were also seen taking an English breakfast in a local cafe and one of Arsenal's most famous fans, Idris Elba, stops by for a fitting cameo.

Unai Emery's squad will line up in the famous red and white once again next term, looking to improve on a fifth-place Premier League finish last season and their  Europa League final loss to Chelsea.

[New] AFCON 2019 VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS: Madagascar 2 vs Nigeria 0

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AFCON 2019 UPDATE: Madagascar shock Nigeria to top group

The Super Eagles of Nigeria were on Sunday humiliated 2-0 by the Barea of Madagascar in their last group game at the ongoing African Cup of Nations (AFCON) at the Alexandria Stadium,Egypt.

The Barea named an unchanged line-up from their 1-0 victory against Burundi while Gernot Rohr made five changes, as Ezenwa replaced Daniel Akpeyi in goal,  Leon Balogun replaced Kenneth Omeruo  with Mikel and Ogu partnering Stoke city Etebo in the midfield while Ighalo is joined upfront with Ahmed Musa and Samuel Kalu.

Ranked 108th team in the world and tagged as ‘underdogs’ before the game compared to their counter-part who were 45th in the world, the East Africans held their own in the grueling  encounter, netting in their first goal 13 minutes from kick-off as Lalaina Nomenjanahary took advantage of Leon Balogun ‘s defensive blunder to boost their confidence for what turned out to be a cracker.

Despite their qualification decided,  the West Africans fought hard to get back into the game and retain their rating as favourites to top Group B, Gernot Rohr Boys failed to overcome humiliation on the night, as match got out of hand when midfielder Wilfred Ndidi deflected a brillant set piece by Carolus Andriamahitsinoro in the 53rd minute to seal their victory and go into the second round of the competition unbeaten.

AFCON 2019 MATCH UPDATE: Nigeria vs Madagascar

Super Eagles coach Gernot Rohr has made five changes to the Super Eagles’ line-up as the three-time African champions look forward to a Group B encounter against Madagascar in the Africa Cup of Nations as both sides look to clash at the Alexandria Stadium with the winner looking  to possibly top the group. 

Nigeria are comfortably through as they were first to secure a ticket into the round 16 with six points from their first two matches in the group phase, while Madagascar have four points, securing a win over fellow debutantes Burundi, having played out a draw with Guinea and must record a positive result to be sure of a place in the last 16, while Nigeria’s six points have come from wins over Burundi and Guinea.

In other tweak,Super Eagles coach Rohr will deploy 4-2-3-1 formation against the well-organised Madagascar team. With duo of Leon Balogun and William Troost-Ekong playing at the heart of defence as Leon  replaces Kenneth Omeruo at centre-backs while Ola Aina and Chidozie Awaziem remain unchanged and will operate as left and right backs respectively.

Captain John Obi Mikel, Oghenekaro Etebo and John Ogu are the three midfielders named for the game, as the latter replaces Leicester City star Wilfred Ndidi. 

Odion Ighalo will lead the line for the second game in a row and will be ably supported by Samuel Kalu and Ahmed Musa, as arsenal midfielder Alex Iwobi is set to sit out this encounter or come on as a second half substitute. 

BREAKING NEWS: Manchester United completes Wan-bisakka signing

Manchester United have completed the signing of Crystal Palace full-back Aaron Wan-Bissaka in a deal worth about £50 million ($63m) after a break-out season with the Eagles. 

The England Under-21 international underwent a medical at United’s Carrington training complex on Thursday having returned from the Young Lions’ unsuccessful outting at European Under-21 Championship in Italy.

The club has now announced that they have wrapped up the signing of the highly-rated 21-year-old, making him their second signing this summer following on from the deal which brought Swansea city defender Daniel James to the theatre of dreams.

United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said of the defender:

 “Aaron is one of the best upcoming defenders in the Premier League. He has the right work ethic, talent and mentality to play for Manchester United and he fits exactly the type of player that we are looking to bring into the squad to help us improve and push on further. He's [Aaron] young, hungry player and eager to learn and that’s important at his age. I am delighted he has signed with us and we look forward to continuing his tremendous development so far.”

After signing the long-term deal, Wan-bisakka has this to say:

 “It’s an unbelievable feeling and an honour to call myself a Manchester United player and something I know that only a small number of players have the privilege to say. Ican’t wait to get going and integrated into the squad. I will have a short break now after the European Championships but I’m looking forward to starting training with the manager and my new team-mates on the pre-season tour.”

AFCON 2019 UPDATE: Morocco beat Ivory Coast, qualifies for last 16

Morocco are through to the last-16 of this year's  Africa Cup of Nations after beating Ivory Coast 1-0 at Al Salam Stadium on Friday.

Youssef En-Nesyri scored the only goal in the encounter to ensure the North Africans qualify for the last 16 at the Africa Cup of Nations in the 23rd minute as Morocco followed up their opening defeat of Namibia with another narrow victory on Friday.

A second successive 1-0 win for Herve Renard’s men means their place in the next round is nothing but secured, while Ivory Coast will need to grind out a result in their Group D match against Namibia.

Romain Saiss made a superb goal-line clearance to deny Jonathan Kodjia in the opening minute, but it was Morocco who took a first-half lead. Nordin Amrabat collected a crossfield pass, brilliantly jinked inside a series of challenges and slipped the ball through to En-Nesyri, who made no mistake with a low drived finish.

Ivory Coast sought an immediate equalizer  with goalkeeper Yassine Bounou quick off his line to keep Max Gradel out and keep the morrocans ahead before Nicolas Pepe shot could only find the side netting from the edge of the box.

Wonlo Coulibaly delivered a fine left-wing cross for Kodjia in the 62nd minute but the striker, who netted his side’s winner against South Africa, failed to hit the target.

As the Elephants left gaps at the back, Morocco pushed for a second and En-Nesyri went close to securing his brace with a glancing header.

Ismael Traore’s ambitious overhead kick was straight at Bounou as Ivory Coast were increasingly  desperate to atleast earn a point from the encounter but Morocco should have had a second in added time when Noussair Mazraoui volleyed against the crossbar from close range.

Valencia quits Manchester United joins LDU Quito

Former Manchester United captain Antonio Valencia called it quit on his time at the theatre if dreams after a long and successful stint earlier this summer. The Ecuadorian international  has since been linked with a move away from Manchester as he isn't short of suitor even within the English premier league. 

However, he has completed a move, out of the blue, back to his native country as he has completed a free transfer to LDU Quito, back in his native Ecuador, after leaving Manchester United. The club announced his capture with a small video via their Twitter account.

Valencia who started his career in Quito with El Nacional, before leaving for Spain in 2005, then the Ecuadorian was on the books of Villarreal where he played three seasons but unfortunately he only managed to muster two appearances for them. He left the La Liga to join English side Wigan Athletic on loan in 2006 before making his move permanent after two years.A stellar season with Wigan in the Premier League saw Manchester United swoop in to secure his services.

The Ecuadorian started off initially as a winger for the Red Devils under Sir Alex Ferguson, before being converted to a wing-back by Dutch coach Louis van Gaal. He was later shifted permanently to the right-back slot, which he occupied until his departure. In his last season at the club, Valencia was even handed the captain’s armband by Jose Mourinho, taking over from Michael Carrick.

He returns to his homeland after making over four hundred appearances in Europe, while winning the Premier League, UEFA Europa League, FA Cup, League Cup, and Community Shield.

Kroos: Everyone was happy with Ronaldo's exit

The German international admits that the Los Blancos missed the Portuguese super star  this year after his exit at the club but believes the move was of benefit to both parties involved. 

Five-time Ballon d’Or winner Cristiano Ronaldo brought his stay at the capital club to an end this season, ending a lengthy yet successful tenure with the Liga outfit after helping them to three consecutive Champions League title in 2018 amongst other achievements. Madrid have subsequently suffered in the absence of both Ronaldo and former manager Zinedine Zidane, though the latter has since returned to the club.

Having finished third in the league, crashing out in the last 16 of this year's Uefa champions league  as well as missing out on success in the Copa dey Rey.

Kroos admitted that it was not surprising that the club has suffered since the Portuguese’s departure, but the midfielder added that there were benefits to all parties concerned as the deal was lucrative.

"It would be strange if you didn't miss someone like Cristiano Ronaldo, who has decided so many matches with his goals. His transfer, however, made everyone happy. He wanted a new experience and Real Madrid earned a lot of money." the former Bayern player.

Kroos also stated that he knew his former employees were making a big mistake after shipping him over to Madrid,  and that he still intends to retire at the end of his current deal at Santiago Bernabeu.

He left the Bavarian outfit in 2014, having completed an international treble in 2012-13 with the Bundesliga title, the DFB-Pokal and the Champions League, among other honours he can count in his personal trophy cabinet.

Los Blancos will be looking to bounce back from a disappointing season when they face Bayern Munich in one of their pre-season matches which kicks off with a trip to the USA to take part in the 2019 International Champions Cup.

They will face Bayern, Arsenal and Athletico Madrid in Texas, Maryland and New Jersey before returning to Europe for the 2019 Audi Cup alongside the German club, Tottenham Hotspur and Fernaberche. 

TRANSFER UPDATE: who's heading where?

Athletico are very interested in James

The Colmbian star has put a proposed move to Napoli on hold as it also appears Diego Simeone wants to bring James Rodriguez to Athletico Madrid, according to El Transistor.

As a result the Real Madrid player has called a halt to his rumoured move to the Italian club.

Atleti have said goodbye to several players this summer with Lucas Hernandez, Diego Godin and Juanfran departing as well as the imminent departure of French star Antione Griezmann.

They are suggested to be likely to sign phenom Joao Felix, and now are reportedly in for James as well, whose Colombia team were eliminated from the Copa America on Friday by Chile in Brazil.

Kovacic set for Chelsea stay 

Croatia international midfielder Mateo Kovacic will make the switch from Real Madrid to Chelsea in a £45m ($63m) deal,according to gianlucadimarzio.com.

The 25-year-old having spent last season on loan at Stamford Bridge made 32 appearances in all competitons.

The deal needed to be done before his loan deal expired on June 30, as Chelsea have a transfer ban in place, and now personal terms are agreed, his announcement could come up on Saturday.

Bale prepares for Madrid pre-season

The Welshman looks set to stay at Bernabeu
despite the club's desire to offload him, reports claim the Welshman is preparing for pre-season with Real Madrid.
The former Tottenham star has previously indicated a desire to remain at Santiago Bernabeu, despite speculation that both coach Zinedine Zidane and club president Florentino Perez want him gone.
As it stands,no club is willing to meet his wage packet elsewhere, Bale seems not to have a choice as he looks set to be a member of the squad that travels to Montreal ahead of games in the USA.

Chelsea reject latest Hudson-Odoi bid

Chelsea have turned down Bayern Munich 's latest offer for Callum Hudson-Odoi, their fourth in all, according to Sky Sports .
The Bavarian giants have for the second time reportedly tabled a bid of £22.5m ($28.6m) for the England winger, only for the Blues to rebuff them once more.
Hudson-Odoi is still no closer to sealing a longer-term deal at Stamford Bridge either.

Arsenal plan contract talks with Torreira amidst Milan link

Rather than sanction Lucas Torreira move away from the emirates, Calciomercato claims Arsenal are planning to hold contract talks with the midfielder.
The Uruguay international, who already tied to terms through to 2023, has initially been heavily linked with a switch to Serie A side AC Milan .

Ajax demanding €75m for De Ligt

Juventus are yet to reach an agreement for Matthijs de Ligt, with Sky Sports claiming that Ajax are holding out for a fee around €75 million (£67m/$85m).
The Bianconeri had been hoping to have a deal over the line by now for the much sought-after defender, with a five-year contract in place, but no fee has been agreed upon by both teams.

Balotelli to join Brescia?

Mario Balotelli has started training with his Brescia to maintain his fitness after being released from Marseille .
The Italian striker is without a club and is reportedly eager to play in Italy again, with Parma apparently considering offering him a deal. But the 28-year-old has gone to Brescia to help him stay in good shape as he considers his next move.
Balotelli has repeatedly expressed his love for Brescia and the club have talked about signing him before.

Madrid not coy on expensive Pogba

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez is not interested in making a big-money move for Paul Pogba given the Manchester United man's price tag, according  to reports via Don Balon .
The Los Blancos supremo will not sanction a bid for the World Cup winner, despite Zinedine Zidane being keen to bring him to the Spanish capital.
Pogba is expected to leave United ahead of the new season, though he may feature in their warm-up trip to Asia.

Vieira tops Newcastle wishlist as Gerrard, Arteta, Howe all scrabble to replace Benitez.

Newcastle United are yet to make an approach for any new manager following Rafa Benitez resignation - but they have drawn up a list of candidates, says the Telegraph .
Nice's Patrick Vieira, Rangers' Steven Gerrard and Manchester City assistant Mikel Arteta currently head up the preferred choices on Tyneside to replace Rafa Benitez.
Bournemouth's Eddie Howe is also in the frame, though the club do not believe they would be able to tempt him away from the Cherries.

Alves open to Premier League move

Paris Saint-Germain right-back Dani Alves has apparently admitted that he would like to play in England after confirming his exit from the Ligue 1 champions, says Globe Sports .
The 36-year-old, who is currently on Copa America duty with Brazil , is set to leave  the French capital after two seasons, having played in three of Europe's biggest leagues so far.
The former Barcelona and Juventus man is thought to be open to a move to the Premier League, regarding it as the strongest technical division in world football right now.

Man Utd set to replace Lukaku with Ben Yedder

Manchester United are interested in making a move to sign Wissam Ben Yedder if Romelu Lukaku leaves the club this summer, reports ABC de Sevilla .
The Red Devils could trigger the French forward's €40 million (£36m/$45m) release clause should the Belgian depart, with Inter said to be his most likely destination.
The Sevilla striker scored 18 goals in 35 La Liga games last season, adding a further 10 in 13 Europa League fixtures.

Cavani set for PSG stay

Edinson Cavani has confirmed that he wishes to stay at Paris Saint-Germain until the end of his current contract in 2020, reports L'Equipe.
The striker is currently on international duty wit Uruguay in the Copa America, scoring two goals in three games in Brazil .
PSG's all-time top-scorer told a press conference following Uruguay's 1-0 win over Chile : "I'm proud to be at PSG, I want to finish my contract there."

Man Utd 'reach agreement' for £50 million Wan-Bissaka transfer

The Red Devils look to have finally got their man as Crystal Palace agree fee
Manchester United have agreed a £50 million ($63m) deal to sign Aaron Wan-Bissaka from Crystal Palace , reports the BBC .
The Red Devils have been heavily linked with the right-back for much of the summer transfer window so far after he impressed during his debut Premier League season.
Now it appears that the two clubs have come to an agreement over the 21-year-old, who will reportedly see his wages rise to £90,000 per week at Old Trafford.


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AFCON 2019 UPDATE: Omerou on score sheet as Super Eagles is first to progress into knock-out stage

Nigeria's Super Eagles became the first country to qualify for the knockout stages of the Africa Cup of Nations with a 1-0 win over the Syli Nationale of Guinea at the Alexandria stadium in Egypt, courtesy of a Kenneth Omeruo’s header in the 73rd minute.

Eagle's captain John Obi Mikel was dropped to the bench as Gernot Rohr adopting a 4-2-1-3 formation with Oghenekaro Etebo and Wilfred Ndidi at the base of midfield, with Alex Iwobi behind lone striker Odion Ighalo. Chigozie Awaziem started at right full-back in place of injured Shehu Abdullahi, while Leon Balogun replaced Troost-Ekong in central defence to partner Kenneth Omeruo at the heart of the defence.

The Super Eagles should have been ahead in the early minutes but both Iwobi and prolific Ighalo hesitated when a few yards from goal after being set up by dangerous cut-backs from the wings.

Winger Moses Simon who started in place of Villarreal's Samuel Cukwueze had a glorious opportunity, after he was found by Ahmed Musa’s cross-field pass, as he did well to dribble past a Guinean defender before his shot was off target. However the Super Eagles’  should have been one nil up in the 32nd minute when Simon played Ighalo on with a through ball,  and the striker decided to take a shot instead of  setting up Ahmed Musa to tap into the empty net, the shot eventually found the side netting.

It was a feisty affair in midfield, as the duo of Oghenekaro Etebo and Wilfred Ndidi both taking turns to stop the Liverpool's Naby Keita from initiating the attack with Omeruo occasionally joining at some point. The unpredictable and pacey midfielder was hounded at every turn, suffering more fouls than any other Guinean in the encounter,but both Ndidi and Etebo managed to stifle the 24-year-old, disrupting most of the opposition’s attacking build-up in the process.

In an open encounter, both teams were dangerous in attack but the Eagles finished the half the more dangerous side, with Alex Iwobi testing goal keeper Ibrahim Kone from 25 yards, while Awaziem headed wide at the back post from the resultant corner kick with after the keeper had misjudged the flight of the ball.

Nigeria, looked more dangerous in the second half as they go in search of a goal when Ahmed Musa broke free on the counter but his cross to Ighalo was blocked and moments later, Iwobi produced again had his curling effort from 20 yards acrobatically saved by Kone.

The Eagles continued to press for the opener which they duly got from defender Kenneth Omeruo, in the 73rd minute. The Leganes of Spain defender evaded his marker to stare home a glancing header beyond Kone from a Simon’s corner kick, his first international goal for Nigeria.

Alex iwobi was later substituted with Samuel Chukwueze coming  on for Iwobi as well also as Paul Onuachu and Samuel Kalu to run down the clock as it appeared that the Guineans weren't going to come back.

Nigeria have now earned maximum six points from their first two games, are top of Group B and have sealed qualification into the knockout stages of the AFCON tournament.

Neymar & Mbappe would be 'dream' Real Madrid signings - Vinicius

The the two most expensive players in the history of the game have both been linked with moves to the Spanish capital this summer

Vinicius Junior says it would a be “a dream” if Real Madrid could lure Paris Saint-Germain pair Neymar and Kylian Mbappe to Santiago Bernabeu this summer.

Both players have been strongly linked with a move away from the French champions to Real, as PSG continue to flounder in their goal to bring the

Champions League trophy to the French capital.

Neymar joined PSG in 2017 for a world-record €222 million fee, but has persistently been dogged by rumours that he is unsettled in France.

He was engaged in a long-running spat with fellow striker Edinson Cavani, beginning in 2017 when the two sparred over penalty-taking duties at the club.

And his Brazil team-mate Vinicius believes it could make for a perfect transfer summer if Neymar and

Ligue 1 top scorer Mbappe could be persuaded to join the Liga side during the window.

"Of course he [Neymar] could join Real Madrid but, at the moment, I do not know what he will do,” the Real Madrid youngster told Telefoot . “Of course, he could be in Madrid or PSG I do not know, but it'd still better [if he were at] Madrid.

"I want to play with Neymar, for sure, and also with Kylian Mbappe, and all the Madrid fans dream of having him here, and I know it because I'm there. It's not only Madrid fans because the fans of all teams in the world would like to see Mbappe play under their colours.”

Mbappe has continued his devastating progress since joining PSG from Monaco in 2017, scoring 60 goals for the French champions including 33 in Ligue 1 last term to claim the league’s Golden Boot prize.

The France World Cup winner suggested last month

that he saw his future away from the Parc des Princes, an admission that put Real on high alert as they ramp up their stated policy of making ‘Galactico’ signings.

Speaking of his future after being named as the Ligue 1 Player of the Year, Mbappe said: "It's very important moment for me, I come to a turning point in my career.

"I have discovered a lot here, and I feel it is perhaps the moment to have more responsibility.

"I hope that can maybe be at Paris Saint-Germain, that would be a great pleasure, or perhaps elsewhere with a new project."

Courtesy : Goal.com

AFCON 2019 UPDATE: Debutant Madagascar holds Guinea to a four goal draw.

Debutants Madagascar came from a goal down before settling for a 2-2 draw with Guinea in the second match of Group B at the ongoing AFCON championships being held in  at the Alexandria Stadium, Egypt.

Sory Kaba had the Syli Nationale in front in the 34 minute, beating Madagascar’s offside trap to send his team into the lead before the end of the first period  of the game.

But Madagascar  begun the second half with intent and drive, scoring in quick succession two goals in the space of six minutes to turn the game on its head.

 Ludergoret's midfielder Anicet Abel grabbed the equalizer and Madagascar's first  ever goal at the African Nations Cup with a glancing  header in the 49th minute before teammate Carolus Andriamatsinoro following it up with a well taken goal in the 55th minute.

Liverpool midfielder Naby Keita started from the bench as head coach Paul Put eased him slowly into the fold following an almost two month injury layoff.

He was introduced in the 62nd minute with Guinea trailing they would rally though and level the scoring in the fourteen minutes later through Bordeaux forward François Kamano who slotted in from the spot after veteran striker Ibrahima Traore was brought down in the box by  Madagascar defender.

The draw, which is the first of the tournament, leaves the two nations tied on one point each in Group B with Nigeria leading with three points following their 1-0 win over Burundi  in the first group match earlier on Saturday.

Madagascar qualified for this year’s tournament in an unbeaten run in the qualifying round with two games to spare, winning three and drawing one in their first four group games. They are one of three teams to be making their debut at this stage with Burundi and Mauritania the other nations.




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AFCON 2019 UPDATE: Super Eagles squeezes past debutants Burundi

Nigeria’s Super Eagles got their AFCON 2019 campaign off to a winning start after Odion Ighalo came off the bench to score the only goal of an engaging duel at the Alexandria Stadium.

In the event, the Super Eagles picked the vital three points and by so doing topping Group B ahead of the second group match between Guinea and Madagascar.

Nigeria dominated possession in the early stages but the Burundians were the ones with the very clear chances as they were more dangerous on the counter-attack.

Nigeria's chance fell to towering striker Paul Onuachu as he put two headers past the Burundian goalpost in the 7th and 13th minute, but a minute later, Cedric Amissi came close to getting the Burundians in front when he latched onto a well–placed pass and stung Akpeyi’s palms with a fierce, close range shot.

Onuachu’s weak strike in the 27th minute was well held by the Burundian goalie, and a minute later, Samuel Chukwueze sliced a decent chance in the box horribly wide.

Nigeria was forced  to make a first half substitution as Collins replaced right back Shehu Abdullah.

Gael Bigirimana, Abdoul Fiston, Amissi and Said Berahino were a thorn in the flesh of the Nigerian defense but failed to put the ball past Akpeyi.

In the second half, Ahmed Musa came on for  captain Mikel Obi as the Super Eagles look to use his pace and race in a bid to get the much needed goal. But nothing was delivered until Ighalo converted a clever back heel pass by Ola Aina in the 77th Minute to put the Itamba to the sword.

Gernot Rohr's side, who are 89 places above Burundi in FIFA's world rankings, struggled for long periods before getting  the lone goal in the encounter and securing the all important three points in their Group B opener at the Alexandria Stadium.

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COPA AMERICA UPDATE: Sanchez powers Chile to quarter-final

Alexis Sanchez put aside a miserable club season with Manchester United as he sent Chile into the Copa America quarter-finals after scoring the winning goal in Friday’s 2-1 win over Ecuador.

Chile began where they had left off in their 4-0 of Japan last Monday, as Jose Fuenzalida put the reigning champions Chile ahead in the eighth-minute as they capitalised on Ecuador's failure  to clear a corner, as Fuenzalida sent an angled volley from the edge of the area into the far bottom corner before Ecuador's Enner Valencia equalized for Ecuador from the spot.

Alexis scored the winner, his second in as many games in this year's Copa America in Salvador as Chile joined Colombia as the only teams to qualify for the knock-out stages after their first two games taking his tally for the national team to 43.but Chile finished with 10 men after Gabriel Achilier’s was sent off.

The 30-year-old Sanchez started only nine Premier League matches, scoring just once, in an injury-interrupted season for the Red Devils in which he struggled to make an impact when he did play.

However, he revealed afterwards that he turned his ankle during the first half, aggravating an old injury.

"I think I have a sprain, I hope it’s not too serious. At half-time they strapped it up, I played on with a bit of pain," he said.

Chile top Group C with six points ahead of their Monday clash with Uruguay at iconic Maracana in Rio while Ecuador on the other hand will be looking to avoid elimination after a second straight defeat, knowing they must beat Japan in Belo Horizonte on Monday to stand any chance of progressing.

Speaking  about the encounter  and the match against Japan, Valencia said; 

"We put in a huge effort but we’re making the mistake of switching off and that’s why they scored silly goals,.We’ll try and beat Japan and then see where that takes us."

AFCON 2019 UPDATE: Egypt's off to winning start, defeat Zimbabwe in opening match

Egypt got their Africa Cup of Nations campaign off to a flying start as Trezeguet's brilliant goal secured the moral boosting 1-0 win over Zimbabwe.

Egyptian star Mohamed Salah was in sizzling form in Cairo on Friday, but it was Egypt's other winger who broke the deadlock shortly before half-time in the Group A opener.

It was no less than seven-time winners Egypt deserved, with Zimbabwe's Edmore Sibanda – who was forced off through injury late on – having made a string of impressive saves to keep the tournament hosts at bay.

Salah was denied by another fine Sibanda stop midway through the second half, but Egypt's profligacy did not come back to bite them as they comfortably secured the points.

Egypt talisman Salah was involved inside two minutes into the encounter when his deflected cross forced a save from Sibanda, who then kept out Marwan Mohsen from the resulting corner.

Mahmoud Alaa should have turned home a Salah corner and Egypt were almost punished when Khama Billiat got through at the other end, but Mohamed El-Shenawy was alert enough as he made a brave stop.

Egypt finally got their breakthrough four minutes before half-time , as Trezeguet cutting in from the left fired in a sublime finish into the bottom-right corner.

Trezeguet looked set to get a brace shortly after the restart, only to be denied by Sibanda who pulled off yet another wonderful save to his left.

Sibanda's remarkable performance in the encounter continued, as the 35-year-old reacting sharply to get down to Salah's close-range effort in the 67th minute.

Zimbabwe's goalkeeper finally succumbed to a knock with 10 minutes remaining,  as he was substituted by deputy Elvis Chipezeze, though he proved his worth with a brilliant late stop to deny Salah and ensure Egypt had to settle for a one-goal victory.

EL-NINO FINALLY SET TO QUIT FOOTBALL

Former Spain striker Fernando Torres confirmed  his retirement after an 18-year career that included stints Spanish Club Athletico Madrid where he started his career as well Premier League sides Liverpool and Chelsea.

 Announcing via social media on Friday, the 35-year old said; 

"I have something very important to announce. After 18 exciting years, the time has come to put an end to my football career".

He also indicated that h'll hold a press conference in Tokyo on Sunday to explain further detail.

El-Nino as fondly regarded as began his career with Atletico Madrid in 2001, scoring 75 goals in 174 La Liga appearances. Before moving to Liverpool where he continued his prolific goal scoring feat where he scored 81 goals in 142 games across all competitions between 2007 and 2011

Torres moved to rivals Chelsea in 2011, where won the Champions League, FA Cup and Europa League before a brief stint  with Italian giants AC Milan in 2015.

Torres would make a much expected return to Atletico in 2016 before he joined Japanese outfit Sagan Tosu July last year.

Torres who made his Spain debut in 2003 and scored the winning goal in the 2008 European Championship final against Germany before helping his country win their first World Cup in 2010.

He scored 38 goals in 110 appearances for Spain, making him the country's third-highest goal scorer behind David Villa (59) and Raul (44).

Benzema releases photo with Neymar admist PSG exit rumours

Real Madrid star forward Karim Benzema uploaded a photo of  himself alongside the Brazil star as rumours continue to surround a possible exit from the Ligue 1 champions.

Reports have swirled suggesting the Brazil star is unhappy with his situation with the Ligue 1 champions following a second successive productive but injury-plagued season.

Those rumours were only heightened when PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi declared nobody had forced Neymar to sign with the club, while also saying he wouldn't condone celebrity behaviour from any of the squad's players. 

Karim Benzema appeared to have added yet another twist too Neymar exit rumours as the Real Madrid foward posted a photo of himself with the Paris Saint-Germain star on Instagram.

Reports have it that FC Barcelona remain interested in a reunion with their former star,however, for that reunion to occur, Neymar must undertake certain steps, including taking a salary cut, with the star’s wages currently only outpaced by Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

Rivals Real Madrid are also monitoring the situation , as they would be looking to pounce on any opportunity with president Florentino Perez hopeful to secure the signature of a player he has long coveted.

Benzema posted the photo of himself and Neymar to his Instagram with the caption of: “Nueve / Neyney #Cracks”.

Significant hurdles remain, however, for any move to Real Madrid, given the likely financial considerations of a Neymar deal, with Liga giants having already spent this summer on the likes of Eden Hazard , Luka Jovic and Ferland Mendy.

Madrid on the other hand will be looking to offload numerous players which include Isco and Gareth Bale, although the club are not willing to give their unwanted players away for less than their market value.

Benzema himself is no certainty to be at the club next season, with his name discussed in reports as possibly moving to PSG.

Neymar is currently recovering from an ankle injury which caused him to miss the Copa America, which is hosted this year by Brazil.

Benzema might just do his current employee a favour of being their super agent to lure Neymar Jr. over to the Bernabeau.

HiFL PRESS RELEASE: as EKSU MOUNTAINNAIRES holds UNILAG MARINES in thrilling Group A finale

FUTA Tigers, UNIBEN Royals, FUOYE Warriors and OAU Giants have all advanced to the round of 16 in the ongoing 2019 Higher Institutions Football League 2019 season on Thursday, 20 June. OAU giants emerged as group A winners after qualifying automatically due to their outstanding performance as one of the Super 4 in the 2018 season, while FUTA Tigers go through as runners up after garnering a maximum 4 points from the group.

The FUTA Tigers, drew their first match with the Marines and secured a 1:0 win against EKSU mountaineers to go through. Meanwhile EKSU Mountaineers held UNILAG Marines from progressing after a 2:2 draw, goals from Robert Odu and Ali Abayomi were not enough to see the marines through after a hard fought battle.

In Benin, UNIBEN Royals topped Group E with a maximum 9 points to go through, while FUOYE dazzlers advanced as runners up after upturning a 1:0 lead to win the game. The match which ended 2:1 in favour of FUOYE dazzlers will see them join UNIBEN Royals as one of the qualifiers from the group.

The league is organised by PACE Sports and Entertainment Marketing in partnership with the Nigerian Universities Games Association (NUGA). The top 32 Universities from NUGA-member institutions will play over a period of 21 weeks, with the final four billed for the Agege Stadium, Lagos.

courtesy:HiFl Media

Mourinho reveals future plan: I see my self handling a National Team rather than club side

Former Manchester United  and Chelsea coach Jose Mourinho has dropped hints to his future plans, revealing that he sees himself becoming the manager of a national team rather than another club.After successful spells winning trophies in four different European countries, the Portuguese has revealed that he sees his future away from club football.

The controversial tactician has been without any coaching job since he was sacked by the Red Devils in December 2018, having recently appeared as a pundit for broadcaster beIN SPORTS.

The 56-year-old revealed in an interview broadcast by Eleven, that he still has the desire to take on new challenges in the world of management.

"I want to compete in new competitions,” he said. I think about the World Cup and the European Championships."

"For a long time I have had the desire to try out such an adventure. Right now, I see myself more at a national team than with a new club. Is Portugal the right team for me? Not necessarily".

The self-proclaimed ‘special one’ has enjoyed a glittering career in club management since lifting his first league title with Portuguese side Porto in 2003 – a year before winning the Primeira Liga side won the UEFA Champions League with the same team.

Mourinho would then go on to lift the Champions League the second time but this time with  Italian giants Inter in 2010, after initial spells in English with Chelsea helping them win consecutive Premier League titles with in 2005 and 2006, as well as four domestic trophies.

He then moved to Spain where he won  his fourth league title in as many countries with Real Madrid in 2012, and although his spell at Manchester United may not have gone as planned, there is no question that there is little left for him to achieve in club management.

The 56-year-old did not rule out a return to club football when speaking earlier in June however, telling Eleven Sports: 

"Winning a fifth championship in a different country or the Champions League with a third club are things I'd like to do. I wouldn't do it just for that. I only go where a project convinces me.

"I want to be happy, not necessarily win, I want to be happy and I don't want to accept a proposal without being convinced of it, that's what I've always thought.

"That's why if [a club] told me 'today there are no conditions to win, but we want you to create the conditions to win', then I would evaluate it."

HIFL update : Varsity league kicks off as UNILAG holds FUTA

A late header from Odu Robert saved the Marines as both teams shared the spoils  at the University of Lagos Sports Complex.

FUTA Tiger's, midfielder Iteade Ibrahim opened the scoring five minutes before the half-time interval when he capitalized on goalkeeper Oroge Olawale's lapse with a cheeky chip to put FUTA Tigers ahead.

Iteade Ibrahim  with the strike (HiFl Media).

The host wouldn't give up so easily as Odu Robert's stoppage time header cancelled out his opener, to ensure the UNILAG Mariner's left with atleast a point from the opening fixture.

The Marines looked more promising in the opening minutes of the encounter with Kelor Smith and Folarin Moses pulling the strings in the midfield, but the Tigers held their ground with several dogged defensive display.

Tiger's Left-back Babatunde tussle with Mariner attacker for the ball.(HiFl Media). 

The Marines began the second period of the game with hunger and more possession as they pushed for an equaliser.

Unilag coach Ogunsemore in search of an equalizer brought on Bello Jubril and Pele as the Tigers’ coach Ajibua Alayode responded by added fresh legs to support his team’s defence too.

The game was poised to end in favour of the Akure visitors until Odu Robert made himself Unilag’s hero by converting Fatolu Adeola’s free-kick with a thumping header in the 90th minute, sending the home supporters into frenzy and most importantly keeping their hopes of qualifying to the next round from the group alive.

The Tiger's captain Daniel emerged the man of the match in the cagey encounter as all attentions will now be shifted to their next match against EKSU mountaineers.

Daniel with the man of the match award on Tuesday at the Unilag sports complex. (HiFl Media).

FUTA Tigers will hope to bounce back from the late setback against ESKU Mountaineers on Wednesday, while Unilag Marines will wait until Thursday before battling the Mountaineers with the aim of securing qualification into the next round.