Sports

Obaseki Throws Weight Behind Nigeria/Benin Republic’s Bid To Host AFCON 2027

Published

2 months ago

September 27, 2023

Editor

… Ogbemudia Stadium to host games if bid is successful

Governor of Edo State, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has declared his support for the bid by Nigeria and Benin Republic to host the 2027 edition of the African Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The governor, in a video message supporting the joint bid by the two countries, noted that Edo State is endorsing the bid and is ready to provide necessary support to host games at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, which is one of the proposed grounds for the biennial tournament.

According to him, “My name is Godwin Obaseki, the Governor of Edo State, which is located in the South-South region of Nigeria. The government and citizens of Edo State wholeheartedly endorse the joint bid by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the Football Federation of Benin Republic, to host the 2027 edition of the AFCON.

“Edo State, which is known for its rich cultural heritage, including the famous Benin bronzes which are now being repatriated, has a deep passion for football. In Edo State, we have some of Nigeria’s brightest football talents and we also have a proud football legacy.

“Over the years, we have made significant investment in sports infrastructure including the world-class Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium complex, which is equipped to host this landmark event. We have also developed grassroots football facilities including mini stadia across the various local government areas.

“Edo State boasts of top-notch hospitality and tourist attractions and a warm and welcoming populace. We are fully prepared to welcome Africa to Benin City and throughout Nigeria. We commit to make the necessary upgrades in our facilities to ensure a successful and memorable AFCON 2027.”

He added: “Our business community and other key stakeholders are looking forward to contributing to the success of this historical event. I want to assure the Confederation of African Football (CAF) executives that Edo State stands firmly behind Nigeria and Benin Republic in their effort to host Africa and to deliver an exceptional sporting spectacle.”

Sports

Why I No Longer Have Whatsapp Group With Messi, Neymar – Suarez

Published

11 hours ago

December 10, 2023

Editor

Former Barcelona striker, Luis Suarez has explained why he no longer has a Whatsapp group with his former Blaugrana attacking teammates Lionel Messi and Neymar.

Suarez, along with Messi and Neymar, formed one of the most fearsome attacking troickas in history during their time together at Barca.

During the ESPN Bola de Prata ceremony, the Uruguay international spoke about the Whatsapp group he used to have with Messi and Neymar (as per ESPN):

“We had a WhatsApp group, but Leo changed his number.

“Ney also changed his number. … They change all the time, so we lost it. … But we talk a lot individually.”

Suarez is set to leave Brazilian club Gremio as a free agent following the conclusion of the 2023 season.

The 36-year-old scored 26 goals and provided 17 assists in 53 games across competitions for Gremio.

Sports

EPL: Ian Wright Hits Out At Man Utd Star For Disrespecting Hojlund

Published

11 hours ago

December 10, 2023

Editor

Arsenal legend, Ian Wright has hit out at Manchester United defender Diogo Dalot for not setting up Rasmus Hojlund in the Red Devils’ Premier League 3-0 loss to Bournemouth on Saturday.

During the encounter, Dalot, who was played in by Antony in the 67th minute, opted to shoot from a tight angle rather than find Hojlund.

Hojlund, who is yet to find his first league goal, was in a central area and would’ve had a simple close-range finish if the ball came his way.

But instead of cutting the ball back for the Denmark international, Dalot fired the ball into the side netting.

Speaking on Match of the Day, Wright claimed Dalot’s decision showed a lack of respect towards Hojlund.

Wright said: “It was for me, when I saw that it was Dalot, and at 1-0, we are talking about Hojlund’s come on now and he wants his chance.

“This is good play from them. He gets in, he’s got to square this. He’s got to square it to him.”

He continued, “I think the total lack of respect for him. Look, he’s had a shot from the most ridiculous angle.

“He’s upset with himself. But he doesn’t even look for Hojlund, has a ridiculous shot. And Bournemouth score a minute later. Hojlund, he’s got to be pulling him up in the dressing room about that.”

Sports

EPL: Why Everton Beat Us 2-0 – Cheslea Coach, Pochettino Opens Up

Published

11 hours ago

December 10, 2023

Editor

Chelsea head coach, Mauricio Pochettino has suggested why his team lost 2-0 against Everton in Sunday’s Premier League tie.

Pochettino watched as two goals from Lewis Dobbin and Abdoulaye Doucoure gave Everton all three points against the Blues at Goodison Park.

Speaking at his post-match interview after the game, Pochettino said his team lacked concentration during the encounter against Sean Dyche’s side.

“There are 11 players on the pitch that need to perform. The problem is why we arrive in this situation, it is difficult to explain,” Pochettino said.

“We know why we are dealing with this. Newcastle lose 3-0 and Everton was much better and credit for Everton but today I think we were better than Everton and we feel disappointed and frustrated.

“It is not only to dominate and play well but we cannot show this lack of concentration. We were punished too much today, too many positive things, I know it is difficult to talk about positive things in the position.”

Chelsea have now dropped to 12th position on the Premier League table after the defeat against Everton.