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EXCLUSIVE: Moses Itauma says Bet9ja collaboration driven by cultural heritage

Nigerian heritage heavyweight sensation Moses Itauma says his partnership with Bet9ja marks the beginning of a personal journey to reconnect with his heritage while laying the foundation for grassroots boxing in the country.

Speaking exclusively to Made in Africa Sport in Lagos, Itauma explained that his collaboration with Bet9ja went beyond branding, describing it as an opportunity to rediscover his identity and invest in the next generation of Nigerian athletes.

“One of the main reasons why I chose to collaborate with Bet9ja is because growing up in Slovakia and the UK, I never really had that relationship with Nigeria,” he said. “When this came along, I felt it was a good time to discover my roots. This is a good time to discover my heritage. One of the main reasons for me was one hundred per cent to discover the roots, but not only that, to talk about setting up charities and helping to unlock the potential in young Nigerian athletes.”

The 20-year-old, who has risen rapidly through the heavyweight ranks, has already collected the Commonwealth, WBO Intercontinental and WBA International titles. Yet, he insists his journey towards the ultimate prize – the heavyweight world title – must come in its own time.

“I want to be champion as young as possible, but in my mind, something tells me that wasn’t in my plan,” Itauma admitted. “I feel like God was like, ‘You can’t handle that yet,’ because although there is a fighting bit, there’s all this extra stuff outside the ring – the media, the faces you’re going to have to talk to. I feel like God has put me in little challenges for me to learn from. I want to be heavyweight champion in the near future, but I didn’t beat Mike Tyson’s record, so there’s no rush any more.”

Tyson remains the youngest man to capture the heavyweight crown at 20 years and four months in 1986. Itauma, who turned professional in 2023, says his focus now is longevity, with an eye on the record for the longest-reigning champion.

“I think it’s 11 years – that’s long, I don’t know,” he said with a smile. “I remember seeing a picture of the top six youngest heavyweight champions in the world – Mike Tyson, Floyd Patterson, Muhammad Ali, and all the way down to number six, who was George Foreman at 24. I thought, I can probably become a world champion in those four years, and it will put me among those names, which is a big blessing.”

For Itauma, time is still on his side. “Boxing spans maybe 15 to 20 years. I’m only 20 years old. I turned professional two years ago, so I still have a lot of time. One day, I’ll get the belt, and I’ll come back to Nigeria and celebrate here,” he promised.

Born in Kežmarok, Slovakia, to a Nigerian father and Slovak mother, Itauma endured racism growing up before his family relocated to England in search of better opportunities. He was the last of his siblings to join them, settling in Chatham, Kent, in 2008. The younger brother of light-heavyweight contender Karol Itauma, he has made his own mark, racking up an unbeaten record and gaining a reputation as one of boxing’s brightest prospects.

In 2024, he won the vacant WBO Intercontinental title with a second-round stoppage of Ilja Mezencev in Saudi Arabia on the undercard of Tyson Fury’s first meeting with Oleksandr Usyk. He retained the belt in July with another second-round knockout of Mariusz Wach in London before stopping Demsey McKean in Riyadh that December. His momentum carried into 2025 with knockout victories over Mike Balogun in Glasgow and former world title challenger Dillian Whyte in Saudi Arabia.

The Akwa Ibom native was named The Ring’s 2024 Prospect of the Year and is now being tipped as the future of the heavyweight division. Yet, while the global spotlight intensifies, Itauma insists Nigeria will remain central to his journey.

“This is more than boxing,” he said. “It’s about giving back, creating opportunities and inspiring the next generation.”

October 3, 2025, 1:31 PM
Bet9ja, Itauma partner to rebuild Nigerian grassroots boxing

Nigerian heritage boxing sensation Moses Itauma has outlined plans to help revive grassroots boxing in the country as part of his wider contribution to the sport’s development.

Speaking at a press conference in Lagos, Itauma revealed that Bet9ja’s forthcoming flagship boxing event would give fans an opportunity to experience the charisma and vision of the next generation of fighters.

The heavyweight prospect, who serves as a goodwill ambassador for Bet9ja, arrived in Nigeria to a rousing reception alongside his management team and officials of the betting company. His visit coincided with celebrations marking the country’s 65th Independence Day.

The partnership with Bet9ja is expected to inject new energy into grassroots boxing through the renovation and reopening of facilities backed by the Bet9ja Foundation, in line with its long-term vision. The project aims to provide young Nigerian boxers with access to modern training centres, mentorship, and pathways to the global stage.

For Itauma, who was last in Nigeria in 2010, the trip was a deeply personal homecoming.

“At the airport yesterday, a security guard asked if my belts were really mine. When I told her yes, and that my father is Nigerian, she said she was proud of me, even without knowing half of my story. That moment reminded me of how powerful it is to be here, to feel this connection,” he said.

The 20-year-old added that his work with Bet9ja Foundation would begin immediately. “Alongside Bet9ja Foundation, we will unveil a series of programmes in the coming days. One of the immediate steps is to connect with grassroots talents at the facilities we plan to renovate and reopen. This is more than just infrastructure; it’s about creating opportunities and inspiring the next generation.”

Omene Osuya, senior marketing manager at Bet9ja, described Itauma’s presence as a turning point for the sport in Nigeria. “Moses represents the future of boxing. His dominance in the ring, matched with his charisma outside of it, makes him a generational athlete. His presence here is not just about Independence celebrations; it signals the dawn of a new era for Nigerian boxing.”

Born in 2005 to a Nigerian father and Slovak mother, Itauma has enjoyed a rapid rise through the heavyweight ranks. The Akwa Ibom native has won 11 of his 13 fights by knockout and currently holds the WBO Intercontinental, WBA International and Commonwealth titles.

Despite his achievements, he insists the best is yet to come.

October 1, 2025, 10:13 PM
Ghana announce Carlos Queiroz as 2026 World Cup coach

Ghana have appointed Carlos Queiroz as head coach, the country’s football association said on Monday, with the Portuguese set to ‌make his fifth consecutive World Cup appearance.

Queiroz, 73, left his role as Oman coach last month after the side failed to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.

Ghana were left without ⁠a coach 72 days before the World Cup kickoff after parting company with Otto Addo following friendly defeats by Austria and Germany in March.

“The Executive Council of the Ghana Football Association, working with all key stakeholders, has appointed Carlos Queiroz as head coach of the senior national team, ‌the ⁠Black Stars,” the GFA said in a statement.

Queiroz led Portugal to the round of 16 at the 2010 World Cup and later coached Iran at the ⁠last three editions of the tournament, recording three wins in 13 matches.

Born in Mozambique, the former goalkeeper has ⁠also held coaching positions with Egypt, Japan, Colombia, and South Africa, and previously led Portugal in ⁠the early 1990s.

Ghana have been drawn in Group L alongside Croatia, England and Panama.

April 13, 2026, 8:53 PM
Partey pleads not guilty to additional rape charges in UK

LONDON, April 13 (Reuters) – Villarreal soccer player Thomas Partey appeared in a London court on Monday where he pleaded not guilty ‌to two additional charges of rape.

Partey, a Ghana international, has previously denied five counts of rape relating to two women, plus a charge of sexual assault against a ⁠third woman, between 2021 and 2022.

The 32-year-old midfielder was subsequently charged with two further offences of rape relating to a fourth complainant in December 2020, to which he pleaded not guilty at Southwark Crown Court.

The alleged offences took place when Partey played for Premier ‌League ⁠soccer club Arsenal. He left the club last summer and signed for Spain’s Villarreal.

Partey was released on bail ahead of his trial, which was ⁠due to start in November but could be delayed.

Partey was signed by Arsenal from Atletico Madrid for ⁠50 million euros ($58.49 million) in 2020 and became a key member of the English ⁠side’s first team, before his contract expired at the end of June.

($1 = 0.8548 euros)

April 13, 2026, 3:29 PM
Khelif’s first professional fight in Paris postponed due to injury

Olympic champion Imane Khelif’s upcoming professional boxing fight in Paris originally scheduled for later this month has been postponed after the Algerian sustained an injury in training, tournament ‌organisers said on Monday.

Khelif was due to face German boxer Julia Ige on April 23 at Salle Wagram, but the fight will be rescheduled after a clinical examination found she was suffering from a painful syndrome in her left shoulder that ⁠causes functional limitation, the organisers said in a press release.

“Due to the intensity of the biomechanical stresses involved in high-level boxing, the medical team deemed the athlete’s condition temporarily incompatible with competition,” the statement said.

The event, which was also set to feature two bouts for World Boxing Association titles, has been postponed in its entirety.

“The health and physical well-being of our athletes remain our top priority,” the ‌promoter ⁠Brahim Asloum said in a statement.

Organisers said a new date would be announced soon in coordination with the WBA, adding that ticket holders for the original date will be refunded.

Khelif has not competed at official events since ⁠winning gold in the women’s welterweight division at the Paris Games in 2024 amid a gender dispute over her eligibility, after the International Boxing Association disqualified ⁠her from the 2023 World Championships based on sex chromosome tests.

World Boxing, which will oversee boxing competitions at the 2028 Olympics ⁠in Los Angeles after being granted provisional recognition by the IOC, last May announced mandatory sex testing for all boxers in its competitions.

April 13, 2026, 1:48 PM
Women’s T20 World Cup to have $8.8 million prize pool

This year’s Women’s Twenty20 World Cup will have a tournament-record prize pool of $8.8 million with the winners set to earn $2.3 million, the International Cricket ‌Council (ICC) said on Monday.

The 12-team competition will be held in England and Wales from June 12, with New Zealand set to defend the maiden title they won in 2024.

“The runners-up will receive $1.17 million. Both losing ⁠semi-finalists will earn $675,000 each,” the ICC said in a statement, adding that every participating team was guaranteed a minimum prize of $248,000.

The prize pool will be smaller than those at the men’s and women’s World Cups held in the Indian subcontinent in the last three years.

Last year’s 50-over Women’s World Cup in India and Sri Lanka had a ‌prize ⁠pool of $13.9 million, the highest pot at an ICC event, and a 297% increase from its previous edition in 2022. Champions India took home $4.5 million.

The 2023 edition of the men’s ⁠50-over World Cup, held in India, had a prize pot of $10 million, while this year’s men’s T20 World Cup in India and ⁠Sri Lanka offered $11.25 million in prize money.

“The continued rise of women’s cricket through increased investment and opportunity reflects ⁠the growing influence and impact of female athletes on the global stage,” the ICC’s CEO Sanjog Gupta said.

April 13, 2026, 11:24 AM
Salmon Akinbo unveils reform plans as Abeokuta All Stars swears in new executives

(Made In Africa Sport, ABEOKUTA) – The newly elected executives of the All Stars Football Association, Muda Lawal Stadium, Asero, Abeokuta, and led by President Salmon Akinbo, were officially sworn in on Saturday.

Eight officials elected to steer the affairs of the association for the next three years received their certificates of return during the colourful ceremony.

Friends, well-wishers, and stakeholders of the association were in attendance as the association’s legal adviser, Ilyas Agboola, administered the oath of office to the new executives.

Speaking at the event, President Alhaji Salmon Akinbo, who was returned to office, assured members that the new administration would implement reforms and introduce a functional system that would benefit the association in all areas. He also expressed gratitude to members for their unwavering support.

“We will build on the achievements already recorded. There is a roadmap in place, and we will continue to put structures that will make our environment more habitable for members,” he said.

Akinbo also stressed the need for the association to participate in football events across the country in order to strengthen its presence and position among All-Stars football bodies nationwide.

To improve accessibility and communication, he revealed that a website has been developed for the association, adding that engagement through media and digital platforms will also be intensified.

He also singled out the Chairman of the Ogun State Football Association and Executive Board Member of the Nigeria Football Federation, Alhaji Ganiyu Majekodunmi, for special praise.

According to him, the FA Chairman has done a tremendous job in repositioning football in the state while also uplifting many football stakeholders.

Alhaji Akinbo further commended the Electoral Committee headed by ex-international and former Abiola Babes F.C. player, Alhaji Bolaji Adisa, popularly known as Fischer, for conducting what he described as a seamless and credible electoral process.

President Alhaji Salmon Akinbo with Hon. Tunde Delu during the swearing in ceremony

Dignitaries present at the ceremony included the Chairman of the Ogun State Football Association, Ganiyu Majekodunmi, who was ably represented, the Senior Special Assistant to the Ogun State Governor on Youth Development, Hon. Tunde Delu, and the Director of Administration and Supply at the Ogun State Sports Council, Mr. Adewale Adedokun, among others.

Certificates of return were presented to the newly sworn-in executives by Hon. Tunde Delu, who charged the association to remain proactive and committed while assuring them of the government’s continued support.

During the event, a moment of silence was observed in honour of a former influential member of the association, Alhaji Hakeem Akintunde, a former chairman of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria, Ogun State chapter, who recently passed away after a brief illness. The gathering also paid tribute to Segun Agbayewa popularly known as Garba.

April 13, 2026, 8:48 AM
Mercury re-sign Kahleah Copper, DeWanna Bonner, Alyssa Thomas

The Phoenix Mercury, after a run to the WNBA Finals in 2025, announced on Sunday the re-signing of core players Kahleah Copper, Alyssa Thomas, DeWanna Bonner and Sami Whitcomb.

Copper, 31, averaged 15.6 points, 2.9 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 1.1 steals and 26.9 minutes in 28 regular-season games (all starts) in her second season with Phoenix. The guard also averaged 17.8 points in ‌starting 11 playoff games.

“Kahleah is a true leader, on and off the court, one of the most explosive athletes in our game and competes with a relentless edge and toughness,” general manager Nick U’Ren said in a statement. “Her impact on both ends of the court and ability to deliver in the biggest moments make her truly special.”

ESPN reported that Copper’s contract is for two years.

For her career, the four-time All-Star averages 12.8 points, 3.6 rebounds, 1.5 assists and 24.1 minutes in 319 games (203 starts) for the Washington ⁠Mystics (2016), Chicago Sky (2017-23) and Mercury (2024-present).

Washington selected Copper seventh overall in the 2016 WNBA Draft out of Rutgers. She was the WNBA Finals MVP for the 2021 champion Chicago Sky.

A six-time All-Star, Bonner, 38, won league titles with the Mercury in 2009 and 2014 and was All-WNBA first team in 2015 and second team in 2020. She was thr Sixth Player of the Year for three straight seasons (2009-11).

Bonner was waived by the Indiana Fever on June 25, 2025, and signed with the Mercury on July 8.

She posted combined averages of 9.8 points, 4.2 rebounds and 23.6 minutes in 33 games (four starts) last season, including 24 (one start) for the Mercury.

“Having DeWanna back in a Mercury uniform is incredibly meaningful to our organization,” U’Ren said. “She brings a championship mindset, elite skillset and the kind of leadership that defines winning teams.”

Bonner ranks third on the ‌WNBA’s ⁠all-time scoring list (7,807 points) as well as in games played (535) and free throws (1,938).

For her career, Bonner averages 14.6 points, 6.0 rebounds, 2.2 assists, 1.2 steals and 30.0 minutes for the Mercury (2009-19, 2025), Connecticut Sun (2020-24) and Fever (2025).

Thomas, 34, averaged 15.4 points, 8.8 rebounds, 9.2 assists, 1.6 steals and 31.3 minutes in starting all 39 regular-season games she played in her first campaign with the Mercury in 2025. The forward also averaged 16.9 points, 9.0 rebounds and 8.8 assists in ⁠starting all 11 playoff games.

The six-time All-Star has been selected first-team All-WNBA three times and to the All-Defensive first or second team seven times.

Thomas recorded an WNBA single-season record eight triple-doubles in 2025 and set the league mark with 357 assists.

“Alyssa is a generational player, natural leader and one of the fiercest ⁠competitors our sport has seen, and we’re excited to have her back in Phoenix,” U’Ren said. “Her ability to control the game on both ends and elevate her teammates helped fuel our run to the finals last season.”

Whitcomb, 37, averaged 9.1 points while hitting 38.5% of her ⁠shots from the floor, including 36.1% from long range as she made a team-high 86 3-pointers in 43 games (20 starts) with Phoenix.

For her career, Whitcomb averages 7.2 points and makes 39.2% from the field and 36.1% from distance range in 307 games (89 starts) for the Seattle Storm (2017-20, 2023-24), Liberty (2021-22) and Mercury. The guard won league titles with the Storm in 2018 and 2020.

April 13, 2026, 8:15 AM
After dominant regular season, Thunder big favorite to hold onto NBA crown

Oddsmakers really like the Oklahoma City Thunder to continue their reign over the NBA and successfully defend their championship.

The Thunder, who concluded the regular season on Sunday with the league’s best record at 64-18 (.780), are the clear favorite to keep the Larry O’Brien Trophy at a range of +110 to +135, according ‌to a survey of sportsbooks on Sunday night.

Conversely, the Portland Trail Blazers, playing beyond the regular season for the first time since the 2020-21 season, have the most convincing to do. The eighth seed in the Western Conference, Portland has a play-in game against the Phoenix Suns and is the biggest underdog to make it all the way and win the NBA Finals, with some odds at +250000.

The odds closely align with the records, ⁠as the San Antonio Spurs (62-20, .756) have the second-best odds at +450 to +550.

The Boston Celtics (56-26), fortified by the solid return of star Jayson Tatum from a ruptured Achilles in last year’s playoffs, are the next favorite. The Detroit Pistons (60-22) had the better regular season but perhaps not the track record of recent playoff runs compared to their Eastern Conference rival, who won the NBA title two seasons ago.

DraftKings has the defending champion Thunder at +110, followed by the Spurs at +500, Celtics at +550 and Nuggets at +950.

Then there’s a jump to the Cleveland Cavaliers (+1600), New York Knicks (+1800) and Pistons (+2200).

The longest odds of the 20 teams are for the Trail Blazers at +200000. DraftKings favors the seventh-seeded Suns downing eighth-seeded Portland with a 4.5-point ‌spread ⁠in their play-in game on Tuesday in Phoenix.

FanDuel also likes Oklahoma City to repeat as the NBA champion (+115), with San Antonio and Boston next (each at +550), then Denver and Cleveland (each at +1100), New York (+1800) and Detroit (+2000).

Here, Portland is at +75000 along with Phoenix and Miami as the three teams with the longest odds.

FanDuel takes the next step by putting odds on the finalists, with a Celtics-Thunder matchup the ⁠favorite (+330), which follows the conference breakdown of the overall winner odds.

The Thunder represent the Western Conference in the top four favored matchups, against the Cavaliers (+550), Knicks (+850) and Pistons (+900). Those predicting a Celtics-Spurs final can get +1000 odds, and Cavs-Spurs at +1500.

The longest odds are +75000 for ⁠Cavs-Warriors, Knicks-Lakers, Knicks-Clippers, Knicks-Warriors and Pistons-Lakers.

Take the extra step and pick the matchup and winner, and that’s the Thunder over the Celtics at +500. A Boston series win over Oklahoma City is at +1200 odds.

Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the reigning NBA ⁠MVP, is favored to repeat as NBA Finals MVP at +135. Spurs star Victor Wembanyama is next at +500.

BetMGM likes the Thunder to win it all at +135, followed by the Spurs (+450), Celtics (+550), Nuggets (+1000) and Cavaliers (+1400). The Trail Blazers have the longest odds at +250000.

NBA FINALS WINNER ODDS (DraftKings)

Oklahoma City (+110)

San Antonio (+500)

Boston (+550)

Denver (+950)

Cleveland (+1600)

New York (+1800)

Detroit (+2200)

Houston (+6000)

Minnesota (+9000)

Atlanta (+13000)

Philadelphia (+17000)

Charlotte (+17000)

Los Angeles Lakers (+25000)

Toronto (+25000)

Orlando (+35000)

Phoenix (+60000)

Los Angeles Clippers (+70000)

Miami (+70000)

Golden State (+80000)

Portland (+200000)

April 13, 2026, 8:12 AM
NBA roundup: Raptors top Nets to earn first postseason spot since 2022

Scottie Barnes had 18 points, 12 rebounds and 12 assists Sunday, and the Toronto Raptors defeated the visiting Brooklyn Nets 136-101 to clinch their first playoff spot since 2022.

In recording his third triple-double of the season and the ninth of his career, Barnes helped the Raptors (46-36) secure the No. 5 seed in the Eastern Conference playoffs. They face the fourth-seeded Cavaliers in the first round, beginning on Saturday in Cleveland.

RJ Barrett scored 26 points, and Brandon Ingram added 25 points for Toronto. Ja’Kobe Walter and Jakob Poeltl each scored 11 points, while A.J. Lawson chipped in with 10 points. Immanuel Quickley had four points and five assists for Toronto and did not return for the second half because of a tight hamstring.

Chaney Johnson had 16 points and 13 rebounds for the Nets (20-62), who are in a lottery spot. Tyson Etienne scored 20 points, and E.J. Liddell had 17 points. Ben Saraf scored 15 points and also picked up six fouls.

76ers 126, Bucks 106

Tyrese Maxey scored 16 of his team-high 21 points in the third quarter as the host Philadelphia 76ers pulled away from Milwaukee in the second half to win what could be Hall of Fame coach Doc Rivers’ last game at the helm of the Bucks.

The club and Rivers are discussing a possible move to the front office for 2026-27, according to sources, after he has coached for parts of three seasons with the team. Rivers, 64, will be inducted as a coach ‌into the Naismith Memorial Hall of Fame in August. Quentin Grimes had four 3-pointers and scored 20 points for Philadelphia, which won its second straight and is locked into the play-in tournament. The seventh-seeded 76ers will host the eighth-seeded Orlando Magic on Wednesday. Center Joel Embiid was out again while recovering from an appendectomy.

AJ Green made five 3-pointers for Milwaukee (32-50) to finish the season with 232 treys, breaking Ray Allen’s single-season franchise record of 229 in 2001-02. Green was 7 of 10 from the field and 5 of 8 from 3 in the first half for 19 points; he failed to score after halftime.

Celtics 113, Magic 108

Baylor Scheierman tossed in a career-high 30 points to lead Boston to a victory over visiting Orlando in the final regular-season game for each team.

The Celtics, who had already secured the No. 2 seed for the Eastern Conference playoffs, rested eight players, including their top seven scorers. Boston’s first playoff opponent will be the team that earns the No. 7 seed in the play-in tournament, either the Magic or the Philadelphia 76ers. Boston’s starting lineup was Ron Harper Jr., Max Shulga, Jordan Wash, Luka Garza and Scheierman.

The loss ended Orlando’s five-game winning streak. The Magic had won three in a row on the road. They will be the eighth seed in the play-in tournament and visit the seventh-seeded 76ers on Wednesday. The winner faces the Celtics, and the loser will host the winner of the 9/10 matchup on Friday.

Heat 143, Hawks 117

Bam Adebayo produced 25 points and 10 rebounds, leading host Miami to a win over Atlanta in the regular-season finale for both teams.

Miami also got 26 points and five assists from Jaime Jaquez Jr. and 25 points from Norman Powell, who returned from a groin injury. The Heat next will play at the Charlotte Hornets in the first game of the play-in round. The Heat, 5-10 over their past 15 games, are in the play-in round for the fourth straight year.

Atlanta, which had already clinched its first playoff berth since 2023, sat its entire starting lineup plus three reserves. Veteran Buddy Hield led the Hawks with a game-high ⁠31 points, and Corey Kispert added 21 points.

Rockets 132, Grizzlies 101

Clint Capela produced a double-double in his third start of the season while Tari Eason and Reed Sheppard combined for 39 points as host Houston closed the regular season with a victory over short-handed Memphis.

The Rockets concluded the schedule with nine victories in their last 10 games. With the fifth seed in the Western Conference playoffs already secured, Houston rested four starters in its finale: Kevin Durant, Alperen Sengun, Amen Thompson and Jabari Smith Jr. Capela paired a season-high 23 points on 9-for-11 shooting with 13 rebounds and three blocks. Eason added 20 points and eight rebounds while Sheppard posted 19 points.

Memphis had only seven players available. Dariq Whitehead scored a career-high 26 points; Rayan Rupert (21 points, 12 rebounds) and Jahmai Mashack (11 points, 11 assists) added double-doubles for the Grizzlies, who closed the season with 21 losses in 23 games.

Nuggets 128, Spurs 118

Denver’s Nikola Jokic scored 23 points and grabbed eight rebounds in 18-plus minutes of court time — all in the first half — as the visiting Nuggets rolled to a win over San Antonio in the regular-season finale for both playoff-bound teams.

The Nuggets clinched the third seed in the Western Conference and will host sixth-seeded Minnesota for the first two games of their best-of-seven first-round playoff series. Denver ended the regular season with 12 straight wins and took three of the four games against the Spurs this year. Jokic played the necessary minutes to reach the league’s 65-game threshold for postseason award consideration.

Victor Wembanyama sat out the game for San Antonio, which already clinched the No. 2 spot in the West and had little to gain from Sunday’s game. The Spurs will host the winner of Tuesday’s 7/8 play-in tournament game between Phoenix and Portland in the opening two contests of a best-of-seven first-round playoffs series. The Spurs had a three-game winning streak snapped but finished the campaign with a 62-20 mark, their best since the 2015-16 season in which they won 67 games.

Cavaliers 130, Wizards 117

Nae’Qwan Tomlin scored a career-high 26 points and rookie Tyrese Proctor collected 22 points, 11 rebounds and eight assists as playoff-bound Cleveland beat visiting Washington.

Jaylon Tyson had 18 points and rookie Tristan Enaruna had a season-best 15 points for Cleveland, which is the fourth seed in the Eastern Conference. Cleveland will have home-court advantage over the fifth-place Toronto Raptors in their first-round series.

Rookie guard Jamir Watkins scored a career-high 24 points for the Wizards, who finished with the worst record in the league. Bub Carrington scored 20 points and dished out nine assists, and Sharife Cooper had 20 points and six assists off the bench. Cleveland had eight players reach double digits in points.

Pistons 133, Pacers 121

Eastern Conference leader Detroit closed out just the third 60-win regular season in franchise history, leading wire to wire in a defeat of Indiana in Indianapolis.

With the East’s No. 1 seed in the upcoming NBA playoffs also secured, Detroit limited its entire starting five to fewer than 26 minutes in the regular-season finale. That was plenty of time for Paul Reed to make some Pistons history, as he became the organization’s first player ever to score 25-plus points on a perfect field-goal shooting performance. Reed scored a game-high 26 points on 11-of-11 from the floor.

The Pacers finished the worst season by won-loss record in franchise history. Quenton Jackson and Obi Toppin led the Pacers with 21 points ‌each, Kobe Brown added 20 and ⁠Ethan Thompson 18. Micah Potter finished with a 15-point, 11-rebound double-double.

Hornets 110, Knicks 96

Brandon Miller, LaMelo Ball and Coby White each scored 19 points as visiting Charlotte earned the ninth seed in the Eastern Conference play-in tournament with a win over New York.

The Hornets will host the Miami Heat in a No. 9 vs. No. 10 play-in game on Tuesday. Kon Knueppel finished with 14 points, six rebounds and five assists.

New York had nothing to play for after already clinching the East’s No. 3 seed. With most of their regulars sitting out, the Knicks started Miles McBride, Jose Alvarado, Mikal Bridges, Mohamed Diawara and Ariel Hukporti. Bridges’ consecutive games played streak reached 638 — the eighth longest in NBA history — with his 23-second appearance. New York will face the Atlanta Hawks, the East’s No. 6 seed, in a first-round series beginning Saturday.

Mavericks 149, Bulls 128

Ryan Nembhard notched the second-most assists in a game in franchise history as Dallas beat visiting Chicago.

Nembhard fell narrowly short of a triple-double in the season-ending clash, chalking up 15 points, nine rebounds and 23 assists. Only current Dallas coach Jason Kidd, with 25 assists in a two-overtime game in February 1996, has registered more for the Mavericks. Cooper Flagg scored 10 points, his stellar rookie campaign ending with 10:11 left in the second quarter after spraining his left ankle on a bad landing while leaping for an offensive rebound.

Rob Dillingham scored 25 for the Bulls. Collin Sexton contributed 19, Leonard Miller had 17 and Lachlan Olbrich added a triple-double, finishing with 10 points, 15 rebounds and 10 assists.

Timberwolves 132, Pelicans 126

Rookie big man Joan Beringer recorded career highs with 24 points and 13 rebounds, and Minnesota held on for a victory over New Orleans in Minneapolis.

Terrence Shannon Jr. scored 26 points for the Timberwolves, who relied on young players and reserves in their final game of the regular season. Zyon Pullin scored ⁠19 points off the bench, and Joe Ingles capitalized on a rare start to notch a double-double with 15 points and 10 assists. The Timberwolves already were locked into the No. 6 playoff seed in the Western Conference and will face the third-seeded Nuggets, beginning Saturday in Denver.

Rookie Jeremiah Fears scored 36 points on 12-for-29 shooting to lead the Pelicans. Fellow rookie Derik Queen finished with 30 points and 22 rebounds, and Micah Peavy scored 21 points.

Suns 135, Thunder 103

Jamaree Bouyea scored a career-high 27 points to help Phoenix close the regular season with a road win over Oklahoma City as both teams, with their playoff positions secure going into the game, sat the majority of their starters and major rotational players.

The Suns’ Ryan Dunn scored a season-high 20 points, shooting 8 for 11 from the field with a career-high tying 11 rebounds and a career-high five assists. Koby Brea added 20 points off the bench for Phoenix. Brea had scored just 25 points total in his first 11 NBA games. Rookie center Khaman Maluach had a career-high 18 points and tied his career high with 14 rebounds off the bench as well.

Branden Carlson tied his career high with 26 points to lead the Thunder. He also had 10 rebounds. ⁠Payton Sandfort added 23 points off the bench. Oklahoma City is the top overall seed in the NBA playoffs. Phoenix is the No. 7 seed and will open the play-in tournament at home Tuesday against eighth-seeded Portland.

Lakers 131, Jazz 107

Rui Hachimura and Deandre Ayton each posted 22-point, 10-rebound double-doubles to help Los Angeles down visiting Utah in their regular-season finale.

LeBron James completed his 23rd regular season, finishing with 18 points in 17 minutes for the Lakers, who will be the No. 4 seed in next week’s Western Conference playoffs and face the Houston Rockets in the first round. Dalton Knecht scored 17 points, Nick Smith Jr. added 12 and Bronny James chipped in 11 for Los Angeles, which finished with its most victories in a season since the 2010-11 campaign (57).

Oscar Tshiebwe led the Jazz with 29 points and 17 rebounds, while Ace Bailey and Brice Sensabaugh added 15 points apiece. Cody Williams and Bez Mbeng both scored 14 points and Blake Hinson had 10 for Utah, which recorded its second 60-loss season in franchise history and second in as many years.

Clippers 115, Warriors 110

Los Angeles sent a message to it play-in opponent, riding ⁠Bennedict Mathurin’s 20 points and a stingy defense to a home win over Golden State in what turned out to be an otherwise meaningless regular-season finale.

The Clippers lost a tiebreaker with eighth-place Portland and were relegated to ninth for play-in purposes, where they’ll get a home game Wednesday against the 10th-place Warriors. The loser will be eliminated from playoff contention.

John Collins backed Mathurin with 18 points, and Mathurin and Collins each collected a game-high nine rebounds, while Mathurin also found time for a game-high eight assists. In just his third game after missing 27 straight with a sore right knee, Stephen Curry paced Golden State with a game-high 24 points.

Trail Blazers 122, Kings 110

Deni Avdija recorded 25 points, 10 assists and six rebounds and Portland secured the No. 8 seed in the Western Conference with a win over visiting Sacramento in the regular-season finale for both teams.

Jrue Holiday added 23 points and seven rebounds for Portland, which will play beyond the regular season for the first time since the 2020-21 campaign. The Trail Blazers will visit the No. 7 Phoenix Suns on Tuesday in the play-in round. The winner goes directly to the Western Conference playoffs against the No. 2 San Antonio Spurs while the loser will have a second opportunity on Friday.

Precious Achiuwa registered 27 points and 11 rebounds and Nique Clifford added 24 points and seven rebounds for the Kings. Maxime Raynaud had 21 points and nine rebounds for Sacramento (22-60), which finished with the second-most losses in franchise history. The Kings went 17-65 in 2008-09.

April 13, 2026, 8:09 AM
Ghanaian player Frimpong killed in attack on Berekum Chelsea team bus

April 13 (Reuters) – Berekum Chelsea winger Dominic Frimpong has been killed during an armed robbery on his side’s team bus as they returned from an away match in the Ghana ‌Premier League on Sunday, the country’s football association (GFA) said.

The incident occurred on the Goaso–Bibiani road as the team were heading home from the game against Samartex in Samreboi in the south of the country.

“On our way back to Berekum from ⁠Samreboi our team bus was attacked by a group of armed robbers who blocked the road to prevent our passage,” the club said in a statement on Monday.

“Masked men welding guns and assault rifles started shooting at our bus as the driver tried to reverse. The players and staff fled into nearby bushes to take cover.”

The Ghanaian FA later said that 20-year-old Frimpong had died ‌in ⁠the incident.

“The GFA has received with profound shock and deep sorrow the tragic news of the passing of Dominic Frimpong of Berekum Chelsea Football Club,” they said in a statement.

“This tragic incident is not only a ⁠huge loss to Berekum Chelsea but also to Ghana football as a whole. Dominic was a promising young talent whose dedication and passion for ⁠the game embodied the spirit of our league.”

It said it would strengthen security arrangements for clubs travelling for domestic competitions.

In a ⁠similar incident in 2023, Legon Cities’ team bus was attacked following a game at Samartex though no one was reported injured.

April 13, 2026, 8:07 AM
Sunderland condemn online racist abuse of Brobbey after win over Spurs

Sunderland have condemned the alleged online racist abuse directed at Ghanaian- decent striker Brian Brobbey following Sunday’s Premier League ‌1-0 win over Tottenham Hotspur.
Brobbey was at the centre of a key incident when Tottenham captain Cristian Romero collided with his own goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky under pressure ⁠from the Sunderland forward.
Romero was forced off in tears and Kinsky completed the game with his head heavily bandaged.
“We stand firmly with Brian and offer him our full and unwavering support,” Sunderland said in a statement.
The club added that the abuse was ‌not ⁠an isolated case, saying Romaine Mundle and Lutsharel Geertruida had been subjected to similar treatment in recent weeks.
“The club has reported this incident ⁠to the Premier League, the relevant social media platforms, and the police, and we expect swift ⁠action to be taken against those responsible,” they said.
Sunderland climbed to 10th in ⁠the table and will face fourth-placed Aston Villa on Sunday.

April 13, 2026, 1:21 AM
Alhaji Akinbo vows reform as Abeokuta All Stars President

Alhaji Salmon Akinbo has pledged to introduce reforms and strengthen welfare initiatives following his re-election as President of the All Stars Football Association, Abeokuta.

The election, held at Muda Lawal Stadium, Asero, on Saturday, March 28, 2025, ran smoothly with Akinbo securing 46 votes.

Addressing the media after his victory, Alhaji Akinbo expressed profound satisfaction with the smooth conduct of the election, describing the process as peaceful and well-managed.

“I am highly delighted for the election and we thank God that it was a peaceful and well conducted election, I am very happy,” Alhaji Akinbo said.

Reflecting on his manifesto promises, Akinbo reiterated his commitment to building on his previous achievements and improving the association’s facilities.

He emphasised that he would ensure the association’s office is upgraded to provide a more comfortable and meaningful space for members to gather.

“Most importantly that as I am re-elected, I will improve what I have been doing before and make sure that our office will be renovated and be meaningful for us all to sit down and enjoy ourselves.”

He also highlighted welfare as the core priority of his administration.

“Welfarism is what is utmost for us and it is what this administration will be focused on,” he added.

The All Stars Football Association, Abeokuta, is a prominent organisation of veteran footballers and ex-professionals in the Ogun State capital.

It serves as both a social hub for retired players and a key stakeholder in the regional sports ecosystem, regularly organising training sessions and friendly matches at Muda Lawal Stadium to maintain physical fitness and promote mental well-being among its members.

Akinbo and seven other officials elected on Saturday will be sworn in on April 11, 2025, beginning a three-year tenure focused on enhancing the association’s operations and welfare programmes for retired footballers in Abeokuta.

March 28, 2026, 12:44 PM
Akinbo retains presidency as Abeokuta All Stars elect new officials

The All Stars Football Association, Abeokuta, successfully concluded its executive elections at Muda Lawal Stadium, Asero, on Saturday, March 28, 2025, resulting in the election of eight officials to steer the Association for the next three years.

The process, which ran from 10:00AM to 10:30AM, was marked by orderly voting and full compliance with the Association’s electoral guidelines.

Alhaji Salmon Akinbo retained his position as President after securing 46 votes, while Kayode Somide (Coca Cola) emerged as Vice President with 45 votes.

Opakunle Abayomi, also known as Opa, was elected General Secretary with 42 votes, and Gbenga Olalusi, known as Gbengene, won the post of Assistant General Secretary with 45 votes.

The Treasurer position was closely contested, with Samzdeen Sodiya securing 27 votes over Oludare Joseph’s 19. Olasunkanmi Igbin, known as Suko, was elected Financial Secretary with 44 votes.

In the Public Relations Officer category, three candidates had initially contested, but Oyedele Adekunle stepped down, leaving Martins Edemirukaye, known as Osuko, to win with 39 votes, while Lawrence Onadeko, known as Onos, lost after polling four votes. Abiodun Obayemi, known as Obasco, was elected to the Welfare portfolio with 32 votes following the withdrawal of Babatunde Odelana.

The elections were chaired by Bolaji Adisa, a former Nigeria international and Abiola Babes player, who ensured the integrity of the process as Adewale Adedokun, Director of Administration and Supply at the Ogun State Sports Council, monitored the proceedings.

All eight officials were declared winners and are set to assume full duties following a swearing-in ceremony scheduled for April 11, 2025.

The All Stars Football Association, Abeokuta, which serves as a social and sporting hub for retired footballers in Ogun State, relies on its Executive Committee to oversee regular training sessions, friendly matches, and initiatives that promote the well-being of its members.

The newly elected officials are expected to continue this work, reinforcing the Association’s role as a key stakeholder in the region’s sporting landscape.

March 28, 2026, 12:42 PM
Ogun FA Cup 2026: Draw held as Majekodunmi promises best-ever tournament
The draw for the 2026 Ogun State Federation Cup was held on Tuesday, setting the stage for what promises to be a thrilling competition across the state.

Chairman of the Ogun State Football Association, Alhaji Ganiyu Majekodunmi, reiterated his commitment to delivering a top-class tournament, assuring that all necessary arrangements have been put in place to ensure a smooth and successful competition.

“We are putting everything in place to ensure this year’s Federation Cup is the best we have ever organised. The teams have shown great commitment and have assured us of exciting football while respecting the rules of the game,” he said.

He further noted that the tournament will showcase the growing standard of football in Ogun State, with clubs eager to make their mark.

Matches in the competition will be played across designated centres in the state, including Abeokuta, Ijebu-Ode, Ilaro and Sagamu, providing fans in different locations the opportunity to witness the action firsthand.

Teams expected to feature prominently include Nigeria National League side Stormers Sports Club, Kiraa FC, Lageski FC, FC Ebedei, Patriots FC, as well as Beyond Limits, Atlantic Business FC, and Imperial FC.

Nigeria Premier Football League NPFL side, Remo Stars will also part of the big party.

The tournament is scheduled to kick off in the last week of March, with anticipation already building for what is widely expected to be one of the most competitive editions of the Ogun FA Cup in recent years.

FA2026 OGUN STATE FA CUP PARTICIPANTS

ROOKIES
- A COSMOS FC
- B GAITERS FC
- C DREAM TEAM
- D ODUDUWA FA
NLO TEAMS
- ATLANTIC BUSINESS FC
- RAYMOND FC
- PATRIOTS FC
- KIRAA FA
- LASEGSKI FC
- IMPERIAL FC
- BEST TALENTS FC
NNL
- STORMERS SC
- BEYOND LIMITS FA
NPFL
- REMO STARS
March 18, 2026, 11:15 AM
Lineker apologises to Osimhen over transfer snub

Gary Lineker has been forced to issue a grovelling apology to Victor Osimhen for not quite appreciating the full extent of his talents after the Nigerian striker was not signed by any top clubs in Europe’s major leagues in the last transfer window.

Chelsea, Manchester United and other Premier League rivals have been among the sides to be linked with him. There was suggestion that they could revive their interest in the most recent window.

In the end, both bolstered their frontlines with alternative signings, with Osimhen eventually completing a permanent move to Turkish giants Galatasaray.

He has since continued his eye-catching goalscoring, his latest strike being the winning goal against Liverpool in the Champions League.

Speaking on The Rest Is Football podcast, he said: “I remember I intimated that perhaps he – I heard a rumour that he goes missing sometimes, and I believe that is actually completely not the case.

“I’m sorry about that. You shouldn’t spout rumours on these things. My bad, my bad on that.”

🗣️ @GaryLineker: "I need to apologise to @VictorOsimhen9

Gary 🤝 Victor Osimhen pic.twitter.com/qe0LSSPVvl

— The Rest Is Football (@RestIsFootball) October 3, 2025

That also led to Alan Shearer expressing his surprise that there wasn’t more interest in his services.

“When you look at the deal that have been done this summer in terms of centre-forwards, with Gyokeres, with Sesko, with Woltemade.

“I was really surprised that no one took a punt on him. Joao Pedro going to Chelsea. Delap going to Chelsea,” Shearer added.

Pedro and Delap cost Chelsea a combined £90m this summer, with the latter arriving from Ipswich for £30m before suffering a hamstring injury last month, while the former was £60m as he joined from Brighton.

Shearer then once again expressed his confusion at the lack of competition Galatasaray faced in attempting to sign Osimhen. He said: “Whether it was anything to do with salary, whether it’s agent fees or whatever, Galatasaray, they broke their record for him.

“I mean, they paid what, €75million I think for him, which is £60million. When you think in the grand scheme of things, with what’s being paid for other strikers, with his record – I mean his record is fantastic. I was surprised.”

Lineker replied: “I saw him play against Leicester in the competition a few years ago, in Europe, and he was exceptional. You really get a feel for somebody when you’re in a stadium. He’s quick, he’s tall, he’s a good finisher, he’s brilliant in the air, he’s a hell of a player.”

Osimhen initially joined Galatasaray on loan last season after falling out with parent side Napoli. He scored a record 37 goals in all competitions ahead of his permanent move. The forward has three goals in five appearances so far this term.

October 3, 2025, 7:54 PM
Police Machines draw The defenders at 2025 Ogun SWAN Security Cup

ABEOKUTA (Made In Africa Sport) – The stage is set for another thrilling edition of the Ogun SWAN Security Cup, as the group stage draws took centre stage on Friday.

Security agencies across the state will once again swap their uniforms for football kits, testing their skills, teamwork, and resilience on the pitch.

In Group A, the spotlight falls on a star-studded lineup featuring the 2023 champions Nigeria Police Force, Amotekun Corps, the Fire Service, and champions of the maiden edition, Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC).

In Group B, Defending champions the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS),will file out with Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCOS), and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Speaking after the draws, SWAN chairman, Ogun State, Comrade Michael-Azeez Ogunsiji praised the agencies for their consistent participation, noting that the competition is more than just football.

“This tournament fosters unity, friendship, and healthy rivalry among our security operatives. Beyond the goals and tackles, it is about teamwork, fitness, and building stronger bonds across agencies,” he said.

The Chairman, Local Organising Committee (LOC), Bayo Adegboyega, assured participants that this edition will be the best ever in all spheres.

He called on football stakeholders to contribute their quota in ensuring that the 2025 SWAN Security Cup gets underway and wraps up on a successful note.

The 2025 edition of the competition is set to kick off 10th of October,2025 at M.K.O Abiola sports arena kuto, Abeokuta,Ogun state.

October 3, 2025, 7:39 PM
Othmane Maamma: Morocco’s breakout star lighting up the U-20 World Cup

Morocco’s return to the FIFA U-20 World Cup after two decades has found a face: Othmane Maamma.

In two group matches the 19-year-old has provided the decisive moments that have taken the Atlas Cubs from dark horses to group winners, first shredding Spain down the right and then stunning Brazil with a scissor-kick of rare audacity. If this is a tournament that forges futures, Maamma looks forged already.

The Watford forward (signed from Montpellier in July) has been Morocco’s spearhead and safety valve in Chile: a direct runner on the shoulder, happy to carry 30 metres in transition, and ruthless when the window opens.

Against Spain he turned defence into incision, burning his full-back to square for Gessime Yassine’s clincher in a 2-0 win.

Four days later, with Brazil squeezing, he improvised the goal of the night — opening his body to acrobatically volley in Gessime’s deep cross — and tilted a heavyweight contest Morocco’s way in a 2-1 victory that sealed qualification.

Maamma’s impact has been as much about tone as numbers. Morocco have been compact and pragmatic without the ball, then startlingly vertical when it’s won. That suits a winger who relishes space and duels.

“I like to sit on the shoulders of the defenders and exploit space. I like one-on-ones, when I can use my acceleration to gain that extra space,” he explained earlier in the week in an interview with FIFA.com.

It’s exactly what head coach Mohamed Ouahbi has asked for: narrow lines to deny passing lanes, then release the wide players quickly and with purpose.

Just as striking has been the teenager’s calm. “Football is football. It doesn’t matter where or who you’re up against,” Maamma said after the Spain game. “You just need to keep a cool head and your emotions in check.”

The message never changed ahead of Brazil either. “I speak of Brazil just as I spoke of Spain. It’s going to be another big game. We’ll do absolutely everything we can to win.” The delivery matched the rhetoric.

Technically, Maamma mixes old-school winger values with modern versatility. He can start wide right and drive outside to cross, drift infield to combine off the nine, or attack the back post from the far side — the movement that produced his bicycle-style strike against Brazil.

At 1.82m, he carries aerial threat and protects the ball better than many pure sprinters; his first touch is typically forward, his second decisive.

This tournament has also underlined how carefully Morocco have built a pathway. Maamma debuted for Montpellier in May 2024, collecting 14 Ligue 1 appearances (two goals, one assist) before Watford moved in the summer, seeing a profile to develop rather than a finished article.

In Chile he has been deployed with clarity. The system demands defensive shifts, then trusts him to decide the transition: carry or combine. His assist versus Spain and finish versus Brazil are two sides of the same coin.

Around him, a coherent team is growing. Yassir Zabiri has provided punch in the inside-left channel, Yassine’s volume of work has made others quicker, while the back line has absorbed pressure with mature discipline.

Ouahbi has tried to keep a lid on the mood — “We’re happy. But it’s only three points, we haven’t achieved anything yet… We want more. Confidence is growing, but we’re going to try to stay humble,” he said after beating Spain — yet even he will recognise how the right talent in the right structure can accelerate belief.

Where does this go next? In the short term, to a last-16 tie with a very different kind of pressure: expectation. Opponents will drop five yards deeper, full-backs will be less adventurous, and the space Maamma feasted on may shrink.

The next step in his tournament will be about variety — receiving to feet and combining in tighter corridors, drawing fouls, and making set plays count. Through two tests, he’s shown the decision-making to adapt.

In the longer view, it’s hard not to project forward. Morocco’s senior side has set a new standard for North African football in recent years; the conveyor belt below them is the point.

A winger who can both hurt elite opponents in transition and contribute in structured possession is a profile every national coach covets. On Chilean evidence, Maamma belongs in that conversation sooner rather than later.

For now, the brief remains simple: keep doing what’s working. Beat your man. Choose the moment. Trust the plan.

In a World Cup that often belongs to the cool-headed, Othmane Maamma has already shown he can decide games without hurry. Morocco have a star for this tournament — and, just maybe, a pillar for the next decade.

October 3, 2025, 6:57 PM
Magidigidi double inspires South Africa to stay alive at U-20 World Cup

Africa U-20 champions South Africa reignited their FIFA U-20 World Cup campaign with a commanding 5-0 victory over New Caledonia in Rancagua.

After losing their opener to France, the Amajita delivered a clinical response, with Siviwe Magidigidi starring by netting twice and winning a penalty.

Siviwe Nkwali broke the deadlock on 25 minutes with a powerful header from a corner, before Magidigidi was brought down in the box nine minutes later.

Shakeel April calmly converted the spot-kick to double South Africa’s advantage.

Magidigidi then added his name to the scoresheet just before half-time with a crisp finish from the edge of the box to give Raymond Mdaka’s side a commanding 3-0 lead at the interval.

The forward struck again seven minutes after the restart, this time tucking home from close range to seal his brace and put the contest beyond doubt.

Substitute Lazola Maku rounded off the rout with a well-taken strike from distance ten minutes from time.

Coach Raymond Mdaka welcomed the win but admitted his team could have been even more ruthless in front of goal: “It was quite a challenging game because we needed to win at all costs and we needed goals as well,” Mdaka said.

“We believe we should have scored more than we did as we were quite wasteful with the chances we created.

“We played well from the back but we were sluggish in the front so we need to improve our tactical and positional discipline and I think we should have scored nine or ten goals.”

The result puts South Africa firmly back in contention in Group E, where they will now face United States on Sunday in a crucial decider for a place in the knockout stages.

October 3, 2025, 2:33 PM
CAF welcomes African football legends to 47th CAF General Assembly in Kinshasa

The 47th CAF Ordinary General Assembly scheduled for Monday, 6 October in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo, will welcome global football leaders and dignitaries for strategic discussions shaping the future of African football.

Adding to the occasion will be a distinguished line-up of African football legends who will be in attendance.

Among those are Herita Ilunga (DR Congo), Jean Florent Ibenge (DR Congo), Geremi Njitap (Cameroon)El Hadji Diouf (Senegal), Emmanuel Adebayor (Togo), Didier Drogba (Côte d’Ivoire), Kalusha Bwalya (Zambia), Gaëlle Deborah Enganamouit (Cameroon), and Sophia Mwasikili (Tanzania).

These icons of African football will join CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe, CAF Member Associations, and global football stakeholders in celebrating African football’s achievements and shaping its future.

In addition to sharing their experience and engaging in African football matters, the legends will also partake in an exhibition match with other football dignitaries on Saturday, 04 October at the Stade des Martyrs in Kinshasa.

Welcoming the distinguished African football icons to Kinshasa, CAF General Secretary, Mr Veron Mosengo-Omba said: “We are honoured to welcome some of Africa’s greatest football legends to Kinshasa for the 47th CAF General Assembly.

Their contributions to African football, both on and off the pitch, are immeasurable. Their presence symbolises CAF’s commitment to celebrating our history while working hand in hand with those who built it, to ensure that African football continues to thrive and inspire future generations”.

With the presence of football royalty and global dignitaries, the 47th CAF General Assembly will showcase not only the rich heritage of African football but also its bold vision for the future.

CAF AFRICAN FOOTBALL LEGENDS:

Herita Ilunga (DR Congo)
Born in Kinshasa, Ilunga represented DR Congo with distinction, appearing in multiple Africa Cup of Nations tournaments. A solid defender, he enjoyed a successful career in France with clubs such as Saint-Étienne and Toulouse, and in England with West Ham United.

Jean Florent Ibenge (DR Congo)
One of Africa’s most respected coaches, Ibenge guided DR Congo to a third-place finish at AFCON 2015 and later led AS Vita Club to continental prominence. Known for his tactical acumen and calm leadership, he is celebrated as a proud son of Congolese football.

El Hadji Diouf (Senegal)
Widely regarded as one of Senegal’s greatest footballers, Diouf shone on the world stage at the 2002 FIFA World Cup, leading Senegal to the quarterfinals in their debut appearance. Twice named African Footballer of the Year (2001, 2002), Diouf enjoyed an illustrious club career, notably with Liverpool, Bolton Wanderers, and Lens.

Emmanuel Adebayor (Togo)
One of Africa’s most recognisable icons, Adebayor represented Togo in four TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations tournaments and the 2006 FIFA World Cup. Voted CAF African Footballer of the Year in 2008, he played for top clubs including Arsenal, Manchester City, Real Madrid, and Tottenham Hotspur.

Didier Drogba (Cote d’Ivoire)
Ivorian icon and global superstar, Drogba is celebrated for his leadership of Côte d’Ivoire’s “Golden Generation” and his success with Chelsea FC, where he won four Premier League titles and the 2012 UEFA Champions League. Twice named CAF African Footballer of the Year, Drogba remains a symbol of African excellence on and off the pitch.

Kalusha Bwalya (Zambia)
Zambia’s most celebrated footballer, Bwalya won the 1988 African Footballer of the Year award. A talisman for Chipolopolo, he inspired generations with his artistry and leadership. After retirement, he served as President of the Football Association of Zambia and remains a respected voice in African football.

Gaëlle Deborah Enganamouit (Cameroon)
A trailblazer for women’s football in Cameroon, Enganamouit made history as the first African woman nominated for the BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year award (2016). Known for her skill and determination, she represented Cameroon at multiple international tournaments, including the FIFA Women’s World Cup.

Sophia Mwasikili (Tanzania)
One of Tanzania’s pioneers in women’s football, Mwasikili has been instrumental in raising the profile of the women’s game in East Africa. Her leadership on the field continues to inspire young female footballers across the continent.

Geremi Njitap (Cameroon)
Twice an Africa Cup of Nations winner with Cameroon (2000, 2002) and a member of their 2000 Olympic gold medal-winning team, Geremi enjoyed a glittering career with Real Madrid and Chelsea, winning two UEFA Champions League titles and two Premier League crowns. Today, he serves as President of FIFPRO Africa, representing the interests of players across the continent.

October 3, 2025, 8:47 AM
Nigeria 3-2 Saudi Arabia: Flying Eagles snatch dramatic late win to keep U-20 World Cup hopes alive

Flying Eagles of Nigeria kept their FIFA U-20 World Cup campaign alive with a dramatic 3-2 victory over Saudi Arabia in Talca on Thursday night, secured by captain Daniel Bameyi’s stoppage-time penalty.

The Flying Eagles, who had lost their opening match to Norway, came into the contest under pressure to deliver and twice surrendered the lead before holding their nerve in the dying moments.

Nasiru Salihu struck early in the 10th minute with a well-placed effort, only for Amar Al Yuhaybi to equalise with a delightful dink eleven minutes later.

Nigeria restored their advantage before half-time when Amos Ochoche rifled home in the 38th minute, capping an energetic first half.

Saudi Arabia, fighting to stay in the tournament, struck back just six minutes into the second half when substitute Talal Haji rose to head in Mohammed Barnawi’s lofted pass to make it 2-2.

Just as the match seemed destined for a draw, Nigeria forced the decisive moment deep into stoppage time.

A foul in the Saudi box allowed Bameyi to step up, and the captain showed composure to convert from the spot in the 94th minute, sealing a vital win that puts Nigeria third in Group F.

Head coach Aliyu Zubair praised his players’ determination: “The players made up their minds that they had to go all out for the three points here and that is what motivated them. Now it’s simple — we have to go all out for the three points against Colombia.”

The result keeps Nigeria’s knockout stage hopes alive heading into their final group match against Colombia on Sunday.

October 3, 2025, 5:51 AM
Bet9ja ambassador Moses Itauma reveals Nigeria as shock ‘end goal’ fight location

Moses Itauma has revealed that fighting in Nigeria is ‘the end goal’ for him after he was brought to the country by Bet9ja to be in attendance for the ‘Chaos in the Ring’ card in Lagos last night.

Itauma was born in Slovakia before moving to Chatham, Kent, as a child – but his father is Nigerian, and Itauma said he felt welcomed by the people after returning for the first time in 15 years.

“Of course I want to box here,” Itauma told DAZN. “That’s the end goal. When I look at people in Nigeria, I know these are my people, the way they embrace me.

“I feel like it’s one of these things that has been talked about for a long time but never been executed. Now I think we are coming to the closing stages of trying to execute a fight in Nigeria.

“Someone asked me off the plane about my belts and said they were proud of me. They said I’m Nigerian and doing well, so they’re proud of me. It’s kind of hard to turn down people like that.”

Moses Itauma is in Nigeria for the first time in 15 years 🇳🇬#GlantonBrowne x #ChaosInTheRing | Live NOW on DAZN pic.twitter.com/Do4miRkRCo

— DAZN Boxing (@DAZNBoxing) October 1, 2025

Fighting in Nigeria is an opportunity that has been supported by other big names in boxing, like Amir Khan, who helped promote the show and also put on an event in Ghana recently.

Anthony Joshua, Lawrence Okolie and David Adeleye also share Nigerian heritage and have expressed an interest in fighting there – Okolie and Adeleye were in attendance last night in Lagos alongside Itauma.

Itauma’s next fight won’t be in Nigeria as it has been confirmed by his promoter Frank Warren that he will return on December 13 in Manchester to continue his inevitable march towards a world title shot.

He shocked the world in his last outing by not just beating a former world title challenger in Dillian Whyte, but breezing past him in less than a round.

Michael Hunter and Adeleye have both been named as options for Itauma’s next opponent.

October 2, 2025, 7:02 PM
Morocco 2-1 Brazil: Atlas Lions stun Little Canary to book U-20 World Cup last-16 place

Morocco pulled off one of the biggest shocks of the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile by defeating five-time champions Brazil 2-1 in Santiago on Wednesday night to secure qualification for the knockout stage.

Othmane Maamma’s stunning scissor kick just after the hour set the Atlas Cubs on their way before Yassir Zabiri’s emphatic finish doubled the advantage.

Brazil captain Iago Teodoro pulled one back deep into stoppage time from the penalty spot, but it was too little too late for Ramon Menezes’ side.

The Atlas Cubs, one of Africa’s four representatives, now sit top of Group C after following up their opening win over Spain with another inspired performance.

Brazil, meanwhile, were left stunned as they failed to win either of their first two group matches for the first time in the tournament’s history.

After a cagey first half in which Brazil saw a penalty overturned by VAR for simulation, Morocco seized control after the interval.

Maamma broke the deadlock on the hour mark with a spectacular scissor kick from Gessime Yassine’s teasing cross.

Sixteen minutes later, Morocco doubled their lead when Zabiri latched onto Yassine’s clever through ball and rifled home with the outside of his boot.

Brazil pulled one back deep into stoppage time as captain Teodoro converted from the spot, but it proved little more than consolation.

The final whistle sparked celebrations among the Moroccan players and their fans, with the result ensuring they march into the last 16 with a game to spare.

The result means Morocco sit top of Group C with six points after two matches, confirming their progress from a section that also includes Spain and Mexico.

For Brazil, it marks a rare stumble in youth football’s biggest competition, as they failed to win either of their opening two games for the first time in history.

Morocco coach Mohamed Ouahbi praised his young side’s bravery and discipline. “This was not just a victory, it was a statement,” he said.

“We showed that Morocco can compete with the best. The boys played with courage, followed instructions, and fought for every ball. Beating Spain was special, but defeating Brazil gives us even more belief. We will stay humble, but we know we can go far.”

Brazil coach Menezes admitted his side were punished for lapses in concentration.

“This result hurts a lot. We had the chances to finish the match, but football lasts 90, 95, 100 minutes,” Menezes said.

“Games are decided in the details. We conceded the first goal, then the second with a mistake. But we still believe.”

The Atlas Cubs, back in the competition after a 20-year absence, have now defeated two global giants in successive matches, sparking excitement across Africa.

Morocco will face Mexico in their final group match with momentum and confidence on their side.

October 2, 2025, 6:58 PM
Itauma welcomed in historic homecoming to Nigeria

Heavyweight boxing prospect Moses Itauma has been warmly welcomed to Nigeria in what has been described as a historic homecoming.

Itauma, born in the United Kingdom to Nigerian parents, is visiting his ancestral homeland for the first time in many years.

The trip, organised in partnership with sports betting company Bet9ja, has been billed as a moment of national pride for Nigerians both at home and abroad.

The 20-year-old has enjoyed a rapid rise in world boxing, earning an unbeaten record and gaining attention with an emphatic first-round stoppage of former world champion Dillian Whyte.

Hailed as one of the most exciting young talents in the sport, Itauma has often spoken about the influence of his Nigerian roots on his career and personal identity.

Reflecting on his return, Itauma said: “Coming back to Nigeria and just breathing the Nigerian air is so emotional for me. This is a major part of my identity, and I am proud to finally connect with the people, the culture, and the energy that has shaped who I am today. Nigeria has always been in my heart, and I can’t wait to share this moment with my fans.”

During his stay, Itauma is expected to take part in a series of engagements, including grassroots boxing mentorship sessions, community outreach, state visits, and fan meet-and-greets.

The programme has been designed to inspire young Nigerians and strengthen links between the country and its sporting stars abroad.

Bet9ja chief executive Ayo Ojoroye said the fighter represented the very best of Nigerian heritage.

“Moses Itauma represents the best of Nigerian talent and heritage. His journey from the UK boxing scene to becoming one of the world’s most exciting heavyweight prospects is a source of pride for our nation. We are honoured to welcome him home and to stand beside him as he continues his journey to the top.”

The visit also forms part of Bet9ja’s wider commitment to promoting Nigerian sport, with the company highlighting its investment in community development and youth empowerment alongside its role in the gaming industry.

For Itauma, however, the homecoming carries a deeply personal meaning as he reconnects with his heritage while continuing his pursuit of boxing’s top prizes.

October 1, 2025, 1:17 PM
Osimhen scores from the spot as Galatasaray beat Liverpool 1-0

ISTANBUL, Sept 30 (Reuters) – Victor Osimhen scored from the spot as Galatasaray dealt Liverpool a stinging second successive defeat on a tough Champions League night in Istanbul on Tuesday.

To add injury to the 1-0 result, Liverpool lost goalkeeper Alisson and French striker Hugo Ekitike with manager Arne Slot ruling the Brazilian out of Liverpool’s next Premier League game at Chelsea.

never positive if you go off like this. You can be sure he’s not playing on Saturday and let’s wait how long it’s going to take,” he said of Alisson, who made key saves but could not keep out Osimhen’s 16th-minute penalty.

The masked Nigerian striker stepped up after Baris Alper Yilmaz went down on being swiped in the face by Dominik Szoboszlai.

SALAH STARTED ON THE BENCH

Liverpool made three changes to the lineup that suffered a first league defeat of the season by Crystal Palace at the weekend, with Mohamed Salah on the bench along with record signing Alexander Isak.

Both came on in the 62nd minute when Liverpool made a triple substitution, with Salah replacing starter Jeremie Frimpong on the right wing, after Alisson had gone off injured and was replaced by Giorgi Mamardashvili in the 56th.

Ekitike, in the starting lineup on his return from a domestic suspension, went off in the 68th on a bruising night for the visitors who had their chances but looked alarmingly vulnerable in defence.

The win was a first in seven years at home in the Champions League for the Turkish side and a notable one against opponents unbeaten in all competitions until last weekend and now dealt two losses in a row.

Galatasaray could have been in front already in the second minute when Yilmaz caught the defence napping and went one on one with Alisson, who stood firm and shut out the danger.

Liverpool then missed a golden chance of their own in the 13th when Ekitike miscued the ball after getting into a scoring position and Cody Gakpo had a shot cleared off the line on the rebound.

From almost taking the lead, Liverpool found themselves behind seconds later.

“We are sometimes a bit outsmarted in situations like this, and I cannot blame Dom for that situation. They make from a 20% penalty, maybe a 100% penalty. And that is something that is very smart of them,” said Slot.

The visitors had the chance to equalise in the 32nd, with another Ekitike shot blocked and Ibrahima Konate missing from close range, but continued to look vulnerable and gave away a free kick on the edge of the area on the stroke of halftime.

The second half brought a raft of substitutions but no change on the pitch and Liverpool still looking nervous in defence, with loose passing as Galatasaray worked constantly to keep up the pressure.

Alisson limped off after saving from Osimhen and Ekitike then pulled up after stretching for the ball.

Liverpool sniffed an equaliser in the 88th when referee Clement Turpin pointed to the spot but was overruled by a VAR review correctly deciding that Wilfried Singo had played the ball.

“For me this was a different performance on the ball and off the ball than it was last Saturday,” said Slot.

“First half I think we played quite well, we had a big chance to go one-nil up and then the counter-attack. I don’t think he touched him with his leg, it was the hand that made it a penalty.”

Fans displayed banners protesting the war in Gaza at both ends of the pitch, with a tribute to the late Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva before the kickoff.

September 30, 2025, 11:12 PM

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SALAH STARTED ON THE BENCH