SPORTS
Michelle Chinwendu Alozie, defender for the Nigerian Super Falcons and Houston Dash, has revealed her crush on Super Eagles player Alex Iwobi.
The American born revealed this during a virtual interview with Pulse after being asked which male footballer on the Nigeria Super Eagles team she admires.
A photo of Super Falcons defender, Chinwendu Alozie, credit ; Aloziee/Instagram
The interviewer asked:
“I’ll ask you this question, but you can decide to waive it; just as we’ve got some tempting, beautiful, good-looking ladies in the national team, we’ve got the same thing when it comes to the Super Eagles of Nigeria. Have you got any crush among those players?”
She replied:
“I will say Alex Iwobi”
The 26-year-old rose to fame in the FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand in 2023.
Her response has however sparked reactions among Netizens
One uthredofmercia wrote: “with the thunderbolt speed she use answer that question pretty sure something must have been cooking behind the scenes ,I no trust this girl she too fine abeg?”
Ohams4PeterObi reacted: “End of discussion.
@alexiwobi come and carry your property.”
Chidubem_OH said: “She didn’t even waste time ??”
Froblematichild wrote: “The swiftness in her response ??, Michelle alozie don break plenty people hearts now.”
Watch the video below:
Media
Former heavyweight champion, Anthony Joshua has defeated Robert Helenius in a seventh-round knockout.
This serves as a huge boost for the Nigerian ahead of his fight with Deontay Wilder in Saudi Arabia next year.
Helenius dragged the match to the seventh round before Joshua won through a Knock Out.
In the round, as soon as Joshua landed the knockout punch, he immediately jumped out of the ring.
Conor McGregor hugged him and poured some Guinness down his neck.
Hopes of seeing the Nigerian-born British boxer reclaim his lost heavyweight boxing titles against Ukrainian boxer Oleksandr Usyk was dashed after he lost to the Ukrainian in August 2022.
Media
It was a dramatic day for the co-hosts of the 2023 Women’s World Cup, Australia, as they escaped France’s battle in the quarter-finals to qualify for their first semi-final in the history of the tournament.
After a goalless 120 minutes of action, France and Australia who the Super Falcons of Nigeria beat 3-2 in the tournament’s group stage, settled for a thrilling penalty shootout.
The quarter-final clash at the Brisbane Stadium recorded a massive 12 goals from the two teams via the penalty shootout.
Australia won 7-6 in the shootout that exceeded expectations with its dramatic turns. Cortnee Vine scored the game-winning penalty kick after Vicki Becho had hit the post for France.
Mackenzie Arnold of Australia made a total of four saves in the shootout, including two against Kenza Dali after the latter moved off the line for the first stop and necessitated a retake.
After Eve Perisset’s save, Arnold herself had an opportunity to give Australia the victory with a penalty kick as the fifth shooter, but she missed the post as the roughly 50,000 Australians in attendance felt every emotion imaginable.
Eventually, the hosts managed to push themselves through to their first-ever semifinal of a Women’s World Cup after the thrilling penalty shootout.
In the semi-finals on August 16, at 11:00, the co-hosts will take on either England or Colombia at Sydney’s Stadium Australia.
Manchester United Delays Mason Greenwood’s Return Decision Amid Consultation with Women’s World Cup Players
AdminManchester United Football Club has opted to postpone the decision regarding the return of young talent Mason Greenwood, as the team takes a considerate approach by consulting its Women’s World Cup players. The decision, which was initially anticipated to be revealed ahead of Monday’s match against Wolves, will now be disclosed at a later date.
Sources indicate that the club is prioritizing open communication and collaboration among its players, acknowledging the valuable perspectives of their Women’s World Cup contingent. This approach aligns with Manchester United’s commitment to fostering a harmonious and inclusive environment across all levels of the organization.
Greenwood’s return to the squad has been a topic of anticipation among fans and football enthusiasts alike. The English forward has exhibited immense potential and skill, earning him a significant place within the team. While supporters await his return, the club’s willingness to engage with its Women’s World Cup players showcases a dedication to holistic decision-making that takes into account the insights and experiences of all members.
As the team prepares for Monday’s encounter with Wolves, the spotlight remains on the collaborative efforts being undertaken by Manchester United’s management. This move not only exemplifies the club’s respect for its players but also underscores the significance of comprehensive and thorough decision-making processes.
Manchester United’s decision to consult its Women’s World Cup players is indicative of the club’s progressive and inclusive approach, which extends beyond the pitch. By fostering an environment of open dialogue and consideration, the club aims to strengthen its unity and enhance its decision-making strategies for the betterment of the entire team.
For more updates on this developing story, stay tuned to official Manchester United channels and trusted sports news sources.
Source: MailSport
Women's World Cup: Mary Earps aiming to 'block out the noise' ahead of crucial World Cup encounter with Colombia
Admin
Without Mary Earps would England be here in a World Cup quarter-final?
With three clean sheets in four games and Monday's penalty shootout success against Nigeria, the goalkeeper is a Lioness being lauded.
"I try to block out as much of the noise as possible," Earps said ahead of Saturday's meeting with Colombia. "But I very much hope that they're praising goalkeepers. I think the performances have been fantastic and deserve a lot of credit."
But if you want to replicate the Earps look you cannot. England goalkeepers' jerseys are still not sold to the public - an anomaly more than 37,000 people have signed a petition urging Nike to reverse.
"It did tickle me that I've got to say," Earps said. "I know that it is being looked into by the relevant parties at various levels and it will be a conversation that we pick up post-tournament.
"But I just want to thank everyone for their support on that."
Support that will only grow if the European champions can beat Colombia at Stadium Australia in Sydney and reach a third consecutive Women's World Cup semi-final.
Colombia have never made it to the quarter-finals before. But they've already helped to knock out two-time champions Germany.
England will have to cope without top scorer
England will also have to cope without tournament top scorer Lauren James who is starting a two-match suspension for a stamp against Nigeria.
"Lauren is doing fine," Earps said. "Obviously, what she did was wrong and she knows it was wrong. She apologised for it publicly. Now she faces the consequences.
"As a team we stick together and we stand behind her in that."
Replacing her goals could determine England's progress - James has scored three of the eight scored.
'You've seen glimpses of what we're capable of'
Aside from the 6-1 thrashing of China, England have only secured 1-0 wins over Haiti and Denmark and the match against Nigeria was goalless after 120 minutes - thanks to Earps' saves.
The 2022 European Championship winner said: "I don't think we've been bad by any means, but you've seen glimpses of what we're capable of. We know and understand where we want to get to. We know we can give more."
Without having to go through penalties again - as were required to get past Nigeria.
'Not one game is easy for anyone'
England manager Sarina Wiegman said: "I hope we don't have that much stress. We've seen in this tournament that not one game is easy for anyone. It is so competitive.
"That's the beauty of the game too. It's also the beauty of the growth of women's football."
That growth is reflected by the fact this Women's World Cup will have a first-time champion.
The last former champions standing - 2011 winners Japan - have been toppled by Sweden, who previously knocked out the holders from America.
The 2019 runners-up were also sent packing with the Netherlands beaten 2-1 by Spain, who reached their first Women's World Cup semi-final at only their third tournament appearance.
"You can see how tight these games have been in this tournament," Earps said. "The level of teams that have left the competition. I think that just shows what an incredible place that the women's game is in."
[uk.news]
Technically astute. Fleet-footed. Strong. Rapid. These are just some words that describe England star Lauren James as a soccer player. In England’s 4-2 penalty win over Nigeria in the round-of-16, the starlet displayed her more petulant side though.
Frustrated by how Nigeria had played better than her and her teammates, and were holding them to a nil-all stalemate, which eventually required penalties, James inexplicably lost the plot.
The 21-year stomped on already floored Nigerian defender Michelle Alozie after the pair had tussled for the ball with just a handful of minutes left until extra time.
Initially, she was fortunate enough to be shown a cautionary yellow. However, a video assistant referee (VAR) review saw the decision overturned and the exciting forward was red carded instead. Her teammates were able to stave off the Nigerians — winning via penalties — in spite of their one-player deficit.
Nigeria’s defender Michelle Alozie reacts after being fouled by England’s Lauren James. (Photo: Patrick Hamilton / AFP)
The apologetic starlet has since been handed a two-game ban by Fifa. Her dismissal carried an automatic one-match ban. However, world soccer’s governing body felt that punishment was not enough and added one more game to her suspension.
That means England’s top goal scorer at the tournament to date — with three goals from four games – will miss their crucial quarterfinal contest versus Colombia on Saturday, 12 August. She will also miss a potential semifinal and is only slated to be back for the final. If her country makes it that far.
In spite of Fifa’s heavy punishment, Alozie shared that she holds no ill feelings towards James for the moment of madness.
“We are playing on the world’s stage. This game is one of passion, insurmountable emotions, and moments… All respect for Lauren James,” shared Alozie.
The attacker’s absence will be a huge knock to England’s hopes of repeating what they managed at the 2022 European Championship — where they marched all the way to gold, winning the competition for the first time in history.
A year later, in New Zealand and Australia, Sarina Wiegman’s charges are in pursuit of a maiden World Cup gold medal. The best they have managed before was bronze in 2015.
With traditional powerhouses such as the USA and Germany out of the reckoning, the English are in with a great chance to simultaneously hold the titles of European and world champions.
Against a tricky and tenacious Columbia, the Europeans will definitely miss James. When she is not petulantly stampeding on opponents she is a genuine threat for the World Cup hopefuls.
So influential has she been so far that of the eight goals that her country has managed Down Under, she has been directly involved in six. Her three goals are complemented by three assists — the joint-most as it stands.
With the likes of Manchester United midfielder Ella Toone, as well as Manchester City forward Chloe Kelly waiting on the wings, the champions of Europe are not bereft of quality. Nevertheless, none can match James for her creative output.
“That’s the decision that’s made. Of course, that’s not up to me. It’s two games, that’s a fact for us and we respect that punishment. We take it from here and just hope we get through,” said England coach Wiegman.
Lauren James (centre) of England and Lingwei Yao (left) of China in action during the Women’s World Cup 2023 group D match in Adelaide, Australia on 1 August, 2023. (Photo: EPA-EFE/Matt Turner)
Rising star
Though she has caught people’s attention, for mostly the right reasons at the ongoing World Cup, the 21-year-old has been making waves for years now.
The Londoner, of Grenadian and Dominican descent through her father, and English descent through her mother, is capable of sashaying beyond markers with ease.
She began her career with Chelsea, alongside her older brother and Chelsea captain Reece James. She then departed for a stint with neighbours Arsenal. She was just 16 years old when she debuted for the Gunners in 2017.
She would leave London to be part of Manchester United’s first women’s team a year later. She spent three years with the Red Devils before she completed a full turn-around and she found herself back at Chelsea once more in 2021.
Since returning, she has firmly established herself as one of Chelsea’s most important players. She helped them win back-to-back league and FA Cup titles in 2022 and 2023.
At the World Cup, she maintained that form and confidence. Evidenced by her scintillating curled goal as England beat Denmark 1-0 in the group stage.
As her stock continues to rise, she says she wants to carve her own legacy in the game. Speaking before the World Cup began, James said she doesn’t want to be known as just Reece’s sister.
“I want to carve out [my own name] and be known as ‘this is Lauren James.’’’
The incident with Alozie may have dimmed her World Cup shine somewhat. However, if her teammates can carry on hoisting the torch until the final, it will be the perfect platform for her redemption. DM
[dailymaverick]
Lauren James’s red card against Nigeria was just pure frustration. I don’t think anyone in an England shirt could get her into the game and you could see the exasperation building up for a few players.
It was disappointing, but Lauren will learn from it. As a young player, she will take a lot from this situation and I just hope people let it go.
You can’t condone it, because no one can do that on the pitch, but we all make mistakes. No one is perfect. Football is an emotional game and her emotion just got the better of her.
But we can’t all cling on to it. We have to let it go — and so do England. Colombia will not be an easy game and, like Nigeria, it is one of those matches where you just need to ignore the world rankings.
Nigeria were better than England in every department. They were excellent in stopping us and I think Sarina Wiegman needs to freshen up her team on Saturday.
I thought some players looked a little bit tired and leggy on Monday, and Ella Toone is one of those I would bring back into the side.
Beth England is another I would start, up top instead of Alessia Russo, and I would have Chloe Kelly out wide with Lauren Hemp.
It might be best for England to revert back to what they know with the formation and play with a back four instead of a three.
That’s how the Lionesses started against Haiti and this Colombia game could well be similar.
England need to take the game to Colombia and try to impose themselves, press high and put pressure on their backline. They cannot afford to sit back.
England need to make sure they have some impact players from the bench, which is why it is not bad having Alessia there.
I thought before the Nigeria game it might be best not to start Lauren, and people looked at me like I was crazy. But I just felt it wasn’t a bad idea, simply because the Lionesses need substitutes who can make a difference.
You need players who can come on and hurt teams in those final 20 minutes, and that will be the case on Saturday
[Evening Standard]
Former WNBA superstar Liz Cambage is changing her tune a bit after video emerged of a scrimmage against Nigeria where she allegedly called players “monkeys.”
Cambage, a four-time All-Star, has been out of the WNBA for a year following a dispute with her LA Sparks players and coaches.
Around that time, news emerged of the now infamous scrimmage which took place prior to the 2021 Tokyo Olympics.
Cambage was set to play for her native Australia, but left the team prior to the tournament after citing mental health reasons.
In a recent interview with Taylor Rooks of Bleacher Report, the 6-foot-9 center said that the alleged events didn’t happen.
“I don’t really lean towards racially backed insults,” she continued. “That’s not how I go. I’m very pro-Black. I did not say these [things] to these girls. The truth looks a lot worse for other organizations involved, than using me as a scapegoat.”
She also claimed she was joining the Nigerian national team.
“Why does Nigeria want me to leave Australia and go and represent them?” said Cambage, whose father is Nigerian.
“We’re filing for me to leave the Australian national team so I can represent Nigeria,” she continued. “I’ve been in cahoots. I’ve been talking with them since all of this happened. This is what I mean. People don’t know the truth.”
But that all changed on Tuesday night when footage emerged from the pre-Olympics scrimmage.
Cambage throws an elbow at one player while slapping another in the video.
She issued a statement shortly after it released.
“The circulating video portrays a highly physical game with no officiating, resulting in me being attacked and sustaining a concussion,” she said. “Contrary to false claims I did not use racial slurs or refer to anyone as a monkey, which is evident from the footage.”
She also walked back comments about joining the Nigerian national team.
“To set the record straight, I never stated that I had officially joined the Nigerian national team,” Cambage said. “Instead, I expressed my interest in joining the team and representing Nigeria. I had discussions with staff members about the necessary steps to become eligible, and thought I was doing them. I extend my best wishes to all players on D’Tigress.”
This certainly has the feel of a saga that is far from over.
[brobible]
Real Madrid Eyes Goalkeeper Transfer to Mitigate Courtois’s Absence
Real Madrid, one of the most iconic football clubs in the world, is gearing up to make a significant move in the transfer market as they seek to bolster their squad by bringing in a new goalkeeper. The Spanish giants are strategically looking to cover the anticipated absence of their star shot-stopper, Thibaut Courtois. This development has been confirmed by reliable sources, including renowned football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.
In-Depth Analysis:
The news of Real Madrid’s intent to secure a new goalkeeper has sent ripples through the football community. Thibaut Courtois, a pivotal figure in the team’s defensive setup, is expected to be sidelined due to various circumstances. To ensure the stability and competitiveness of the squad, Real Madrid’s management has taken a proactive approach to identify and acquire a suitable replacement.
While Courtois’s absence will undoubtedly leave a void, Real Madrid’s determination to maintain their position as a football powerhouse remains unshaken. The club’s track record of success, both domestically and on the international stage, demands that they have a contingency plan in place for such situations.
Strategic Move:
Real Madrid’s pursuit of a new goalkeeper is not merely a reactionary measure but rather a calculated move to sustain their performance levels. The club’s management, known for their astute decision-making, is expected to evaluate potential candidates meticulously before finalizing any deal. The chosen goalkeeper will not only need to possess exceptional skills and reflexes but also integrate seamlessly into the team’s tactical approach.
Source Confirmation:
The credibility of this news is reinforced by the confirmation from Fabrizio Romano, a trusted insider in the football transfer market. Romano’s accurate track record of reporting such developments adds weight to the information. Real Madrid fans and football enthusiasts can rest assured that the pursuit of a new goalkeeper is grounded in authentic sources.
As Real Madrid prepares to enter the transfer market in search of a new goalkeeper, the football world watches with keen interest. The club’s commitment to upholding their legacy and maintaining their competitive edge is evident in their proactive approach to the situation. With Fabrizio Romano’s confirmation lending credence to the news, fans can anticipate an exciting period of speculation and anticipation as Real Madrid works towards securing a capable replacement to cover Courtois’s absence.
[allmedia24]
England forward Lauren James has been hit with a two-match ban after her red card against Nigeria.
James was sent off in the last-16 Women’s World Cup tie after stamping on the back of Nigeria forward Michelle Alozie.
The red card meant the 21-year-old was automatically suspended for one game, but that has been increased to two matches.
It means the Chelsea forward would miss the semi-finals if England beat Colombia on Saturday - but she would be back for the final or third-placed play-off.
The news is a huge boost to the Lionesses as James has been one of their best players at this tournament, scoring three goals and laying on the same number of assists.
“All my love and respect to you. I am sorry for what happened,” James tweeted after her red card.
“Also, for our England fans and my team-mates, playing with and for you is my greatest honour and I promise to learn from my experience.”
[standard]
More...
Another day, another impressive Yard Sale collab.
This time the slice specialists have teamed up with Chuku’s – the world’s first Nigerian tapas restaurant – to create a limited edition ‘Lagos Heat’ pizza.
The Tottenham restaurant has used classic West African flavours with smoked lamb asun – using the spicy flavours of ginger, garlic, red onion, coriander and scotch bonnet – as well as sweet fried plantain on top of the pizza. That all comes with a jollof stew base combined with Yard Sale’s own house tomato sauce, and then a smattering of fior di latte mozzarella to seal the delicious deal.
We are extremely ready.
Siblings Emeka and Ifeyinwa Frederick opened Chuku’s first bricks-and-mortar restaurant in 2020. ‘We’re always super excited to see the flavours of the much-celebrated jollof stew reach a wider audience,’ said Emeka of the pizza, which is available for takeaway, delivery and dine-in from August 16-30 at Yard Sale’s recently-opened Tottenham and Walthamstow locations only.
‘Coupled with sweet-tasting fried plantain, it is an iconic Nigerian flavour pairing. And our lamb asun adds that more-ish kick. We hope for those familiar with Nigerian food they’ll love our Nigerian spin on a pizza and for those new to Nigerian flavours, we hope that it’ll spark their curiosity to explore the cuisine even further.’
In a lovely turn of events, it transpires that Ifeyinwa used to work for Yard Sale. ‘Back in 2017 when Chuku’s was still a pop-up, I took a job at Yard Sale in 2017 to learn more about the hospitality industry. And I learnt a lot there about what good management looks like and how to create a positive work environment – things that I took forward into Chuku’s. At the time, I would tell my Yard Sale General Manager about the pop-up I was running and the dreams we had of opening our first permanent site.’
It’s been a good summer for Chuku’s, who were recently awarded an £8,000 grant from Beyoncé’s charity foundation BeyGOOD during her run of shows at nearby Tottenham Stadium.
[timeout]
Juventus fans on Wednesday, August 9, stormed the pitch during a training match against Juventus Next Gen and chanted 'we don't want Lukaku' in protest against the club signing the Belgian striker.
The Italian fans do not want the club to do a part-exchange deal that will see striker Dusan Vlahovic move to Chelsea while Lukaku move the other way.
Juventus' fans consistently applauded Vlahovic during the game, which the senior team won 8-0.
It comes after the Curva Sud ultra group unfurled a banner telling Lukaku to stay away, which read: 'Lukaku stay in Milan, we already have a second goalkeeper'.
The mocking message refers to the Champions League final, when Lukaku accidentally blocked Roberto Dimarco's goalbound effort in their 1-0 defeat to Inter Milan.
Fans began the anti-Lukaku chants within the first minute of the game, according to La Gazzetta dello Sport.
Chelsea rejected a £26million bid from Inter for the wantaway 30-year-old earlier this summer and Todd Boehly wants in the region of £40m.
He was on loan at the Milanese giants last year but the Blues are adamant he will not go out on loan again, even if they don't want him themselves.
Lukaku is understood to be open to Juventus, forcing Inter to pull out of trying to sign him after hearing that talks were being held between Chelsea and the Old Lady.
He was reportedly unhappy that the Nerazzuri left him out of the starting line-up for the Champions League final and so snubbed them this summer after scoring 14 goals in 37 games for them.
Chelsea were willing to table a £38.5m bid plus Lukaku for Juventus' Vlahovic.
EPL: It’ll create bad atmosphere – Peter Schmeichel criticizes Arteta over incoming Arsenal star
Editor 1Manchester United legend, Peter Schmeichel has criticised Arsenal manager, Mikel Arteta’s decision to sign Brentford goalkeeper, David Raya for the Gunners.
Raya is due to undergo a medical with Arsenal on Thursday after Premier League North London club agreed a £30million deal with Brentford earlier this week.
The Spaniard will join Arsenal on an initial loan deal worth £3million, while Arsenal have the option to make the move permanent next summer for £27million.
Raya will now compete with Aaron Ramsdale to become Arsenal’s first-choice goalkeeper this season, while Arteta has already made it clear that he wants competition for places in all areas of his squad including the goalkeeping department.
But Schmeichel believes Arteta’s decision to have two strong goalkeepers in his squad could create a ‘bad atmosphere’ in the dressing room.
I absolutely do not get it, Schmeichel told BBC Radio 5 Live.
I cannot understand how a manager can come to the conclusion that it is a great thing to have competition for the number one shirt.
A goalkeeper’s position is very reactive. You cannot create anything on your own, you have to wait for things to happen.
You are now asking your goalkeeper to prove you are better than the other one. That means you now have to go and do stuff, and you don’t want that. It is the one position on the pitch where you just want steady.
When you have a competition situation he also plays that game for himself and for that position, and I don’t get it.
What you do is you put a lot of insecurity into the two of them.
He said, At the same time, having two challenging for number one, you are also creating potentially a bad atmosphere in the dressing room because it is a straight up competition between two guys who will either start or not play.
KAA Gent manager, Hein Vanhaezebrouck has showered encomium on Gift Orban following the forward’s remarkable display in Wednesday night’s UEFA Europa Conference League clash against Polish club Pogon Szczecin.
Orban, 21, grabbed a hat-trick in the 5-0 victory.
The Nigerian has hit the ground running this season following a remarkable campaign last term.
The young striker has already registered four goals for the Buffalos this season.
Vanhaezebrouck singled out Orban for praise after the game.
He’s a phenomenon and he will continue to be a phenomenon. I’ve said it five times and I’ll keep saying it,
he told reporters after the game.
Even if he is no longer here, he will remain a phenomenon, and I will continue to say that. He is 21 and remains a young guy.
His hat-trick? That is nothing special in itself anymore, is it?