Sports

Flick Demands ‘Focus’ From Barca Ahead Of Crunch Atletico Clash

Published

5 months ago

March 15, 2025

Hansi Flick warned his Barcelona stars they need to focus to avoid crumbling against Atletico Madrid on Sunday in La Liga as they have in their previous two meetings this season.

Leaders Barcelona are a point ahead of Diego Simeone’s Atletico, third, going into the huge title clash at the Metropolitano stadium in the Spanish capital.

Barcelona led against Atletico in the first league match in December but Rodrigo De Paul levelled for the visitors and Alexander Sorloth hit a 96th minute winner which helped them usurp the Catalans at the top of the table.

Then in the Copa del Rey semi-final first leg Barcelona let in two goals in the first six minutes and two late goals, including another Sorloth stoppage time strike in a wild 4-4 draw.

“I think we have had really two great matches and of course we have to be focussed from begninning to the end of the match,” Flick told reporters Saturday.

“I think in the first match, at the end of the match we were not so focussed like we can be, and also the second match was (the same) in the beginning and also at the end, so we have to take care about that.

“When you make mistakes Atletico can hurt you and this is what we have to defend against.”

Atletico Madrid were knocked out of the Champions League on Wednesday on penalties by rivals Real Madrid, while Barcelona beat Benfica to reach the quarter-finals.

Former Manchester City striker Julian Alvarez scored a penalty in the shoot-out for Atletico which was controversially disallowed because he may have touched the ball twice when he slipped as he took it

“It was an unlucky situation, I feel for him, he’s one of the best strikers,” said Flick, adding that it was “not a problem” for Atletico to have played 120 minutes because of their squad depth.

– ‘One of the superstars’ –
Flick has plenty of options himself with Dani Olmo seemingly ahead of Gavi in the pecking order for the attacking midfield spot.

Gavi and Barca defender Alejandro Balde were not included in the Spain squad to face the Netherlands in the Nations League quarter-finals next week, but the Barca coach hailed both players.

“(Gavi) came from a huge injury and he’s 20 years old and now at the moment he is I think, not the first (choice)… a more difficult situation but he’s doing great,” said Flick.

“At the moment our midfield is doing really good. I’m happy he’s here and I think he will play many, many years for this amazing club and be one of the superstars here.

“He can improve a lot, he will do this. His attitude is unbelievably good, he’s really focussed and really happy he is here.

“I think for the World Cup 2026 he will be there and be able to play, 100 percent.”

Flick said Balde was “one of the best” left-backs in the world, and also praised veteran centre-back Inigo Martinez, who was called up for Spain by national team coach Luis de la Fuente.

“With his attitude and mentality he’s unbelievably good for every team,” added Flick.

Related Topics:Atlético Barca Barcelona Flick

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Sports

Enabulele Celebrates Edo Deputy Governor on Birthday

Published

2 days ago

August 12, 2025

Editor

The Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Hon. Amadin Desmond Enabulele, has congratulated the Deputy Governor of Edo State, Hon. Dennis Idahosa, on the occasion of his birthday.

In a statement issued on Monday through his Media Officer, Edoko Wilson Edoko, Enabulele described Idahosa as a true democrat, a results-driven leader, and a high-flyer.

“You have continued to distinguish yourself in all your endeavours. Even as a young legislator, your impactful representation and laudable stewardship exemplify the true definition of a performer, earning you the admiration of many,” he said.

Enabulele further noted that Idahosa’s life is a testament to the importance of loyalty and respect, particularly in his current role as a supportive Deputy Governor. “You have stood firmly behind your boss, and that epitomizes true leadership,” he stated.

“As you celebrate another milestone, I join family, friends, and well-wishers across the globe in acknowledging your humility, commitment, and determination to ensure Edo State continues to rise under Governor Okpebholo’s SHINE Agenda,” Enabulele added.

He commended the Deputy Governor’s unwavering dedication to nation-building, his vision for a better Edo, and his commitment to advancing and safeguarding the interests of all Edo people, regardless of status or circumstance, describing these qualities as “worthy of emulation.”

“We pray that Almighty God continues to grant you wisdom, good health, sound mind, happiness, and joy as you celebrate another year,” the statement concluded.

Sports

Edo SWAN Felicitates Deputy Governor On Birth Anniversary

Published

2 days ago

August 12, 2025

Editor

‎The Leadership of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Edo State chapter, has felicitated with deputy governor of the state, Hon. Dennis Idahosa, on his birth anniversary.

A felicitation message jointly signed by Comrade Kehind Osagiede and Comrade Idahosa Moses, Edo SWAN Chairman and Secretary, on behalf of all sports writers in the state said, ‎”all of us at SWAN in Edo state are delighted over this milestone and wish that many more celebrations come your way now and always.”

The duo, in the message, while describing the deputy governor as a man of “honour, candour and commitment to public good as you have aptly demonstrated in the task of sports and youths development in Edo state,” acknowledged his support and encouragement to the body since he assumed office.

The message reads: “Your dedication to serving the people of Edo State and your insightful contributions to good governance is highly commendable
‎
“‎Today, we celebrate a visionary leader who is propelling the sports sector to unprecedented heights.
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“‎As you celebrate this special day, we wish Your Excellency good health and fulfillment in all your aspirations.”