Sports

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

Published

3 years ago

September 27, 2023

… 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

Messi Opens Up On Relationship With Cristiano Ronaldo

Published

10 hours ago

May 8, 2026

Editor

Barcelona and Argentina legend, Lionel Messi, has opened up on his relationship and long-standing rivalry with Cristiano Ronaldo following years of intense competition between the two football icons.

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo faced off at the pinnacle of football for many years.

Fans watched with bated breath as “La Pulga” and CR7 consistently tried to outdo one another.

In a recent interview on Argentine television, Messi reflected on his rivalry with Cristiano Ronaldo.

Messi and Ronaldo encountered each other more frequently as adversaries during their tenures at Barcelona and Real Madrid from 2009 to 2018.

“What transpired was a remarkable sporting rivalry,” Messi told Polloalvarezok.

“It is a natural occurrence in football. I was with Barcelona while he was with Real Madrid, and we were competing for everything, both as a team and individually, which led to constant comparisons between us.

“However, our relationship was always positive and respectful, and everything that unfolded was strictly athletic. There was nothing personal.

“We did not often meet outside matches or award ceremonies, and we maintained a cordial relationship.

“Now we find ourselves in different phases of our lives, but what transpired was indeed a remarkable sporting rivalry.”

Sports

LaLiga: Real Madrid Open Negotiations With Mourinho Amid Fights In Dressing Room

Published

10 hours ago

May 8, 2026

Editor

Real Madrid have established direct contact with Benfica manager, Jose Mourinho, as they seek to bring the Portuguese back to the club.

President Florentino Perez is keen to appoint Mourinho ahead of next season.

Perez will however have to pay a fee to release the former Manchester United and Chelsea boss from his current contract.

Football transfer expert, Fabrizio Romano, wrote on X on Friday: “Real Madrid have started José Mourinho operation with direct contacts now taking place.

“Benfica want Mou to stay at all costs but aware of Real talks ongoing; it depends on Madrid.

“Up to Florentino Pérez: he will decide if Mourinho returns or not.”

This comes in a week when the tensions within the Madrid dressing room became public.

Captain Federico Valverde had to be taken to hospital after clashing with Aurelien Tchouameni in training.

Days before then, Antonio Rudiger reportedly slapped Alvaro Carreras and was forced to apologize.

It is also rumoured that certain players openly mock interim coach Alvaro Arbeloa.

Sports

Turkey: Galatasaray Give Condition To Sell Victor Osimhen

Published

10 hours ago

May 8, 2026

Editor

Galatasaray board member, Bora Bahçetepe, has insisted that the club will sell their star striker Victor Osimhen if they receive an offer of 150-200 million euros.

Bahçetepe stated this on the HT Spor broadcast while fielding questions about Osimhen’s future amid reports linking the Nigerian international with a move away from Galatasaray in the summer transfer window.

Galatasaray has many players, including Osimhen, whose future is uncertain at the end of the season.

“Victor Osimhen is the best striker in Europe,” Bahçetepe said.

“We won’t sell him unless we receive an offer of 150-200 million euros,” he said.

Osimhen joined Galatasaray from Serie A side Napoli on a permanent transfer in 2025.