Sports

Lukaku Suspended For Reacting To Racism Abuse

Published

2 months ago

April 22, 2023

Inter Milan striker Romelu Lukaku on Saturday had his one-match suspension, imposed for reacting to racist abuse, revoked by Italian football chiefs after an angry backlash.

Belgian star Lukaku received the ban after picking up two yellow cards, the second for his goal celebration in front of Juventus fans after a stoppage-time penalty which secured Inter a 1-1 Italian Cup draw in Turin two weeks ago.

The Belgium striker held his finger to his mouth and told Juve supporters to “shut up”.

“The principle of the fight against all forms of racism constitutes one of the founding principles of the sporting order,” said Gabriele Gravina, the president of the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) after overturning the ban.

He said that the player “has been the target, on several occasions, of serious, repeated and despicable racial hatred and discrimination, at a level capable of justifying formally unlawful conduct.”

The decision means that Lukaku can now play in the second leg of the semi-final in Milan on Wednesday.

“I am really happy about this decision from the president of the FIGC, who has shown great sensitivity to the situation,” said the 29-year-old Lukaku in a statement.

Sports

How Cristiano Ronaldo Influenced My Move To Saudi Arabia – Benzema

Published

17 hours ago

June 7, 2023

Editor

Karim Benzema has broken silence after signing for Saudi Arabian side Al-Ittihad.

The 35-year-old’s move to the Middle East was officially confirmed on Tuesday evening.

The move comes after a 14-year stint with the Spanish champions where he won an array of trophies, leaving behind a behemoth of a legacy.

The Frenchman joins Cristiano Ronaldo who he claimed is a good friend and showed that Saudi football was getting ahead.

“Al Ittihad is a new challenge for me. It’s a good league and there are many good players.

“Cristiano Ronaldo is already here, he is a friend who shows that Saudi Arabia is starting to get ahead and I am here to win as I did in Europe,” Benzema said.

The Ballon d’Or winner signed a two-year contract that will see him earn a whopping sum of €200m annually.

Sports

Blow For Man United As Chelsea Open Talks To Sign Neymar

Published

18 hours ago

June 7, 2023

Editor

Chelsea have reportedly opened talks with Paris Saint-Germain over a possible summer transfer for Neymar.

The Brazillian could be on the verge of leaving the Ligue 1 champions following the looming exit of friend and teammate, Lionel Messi.

The Brazilian endured another difficult season with the French champions with his season wounding up in February due to an ankle injury in February.

The 32-year-old only managed 18 goals and 17 assists in 29 appearances for the Parisians.

This development compounded the grudge PSG fans hold towards Neymar who has largely failed to live up to expectations and has become the target of criticism.

After it was earlier reported that Manchester United and Newcastle were eager to bring him to England, Chelsea are now the latest club looking to secure his service by opening negotiations with PSG, according to Le10 Sport

The Blues’ new boss, Mauricio Pochettino, is said to want a reunion with Neymar, having previously managed him during his stint at PSG in the 2021-22 season.

Sports

FIFA Honours Napoli Hero Osimhen With Special Ball, Jersey

Published

18 hours ago

June 7, 2023

Editor

The Federation of International Football Association, FIFA, has gifted Victor Osimhen with a special jersey and ball following the forward’s outstanding performance for Napoli in the 2022/23 season.

Osimhen was pivotal to Napoli winning the Scudetto for the first time in 33 years.

The 24-year-old scored 26 goals and registered four assists in 32 league appearances for the Partenopei.

The striker also netted five times in six appearances for his club in the UEFA Champions League.

Osimhen claimed the top scorer award in Serie A, the first African to achieve the feat.

The former Wolfsburg player was also named best forward and included in the Team of the Season.

“Victor Osimhen, you represent at the moment what football can do,” FIFA wrote in a message to the player.

“From Lagos to Napoli where people love you, you have suffered, but your love for football and determination have guided you.

“Keep going, keep pushing. Africa needs examples and millions are watching and dreaming.”