João Pedro made a sensational first start for Chelsea, scoring twice in a commanding 2-0 win over Fluminense to book a spot in the Club World Cup final. The £60 million summer signing from Brighton wasted no time making an impression, netting in both halves against the Brazilian side where he began his career. His clinical performance not only secured Chelsea’s place in Sunday’s final but also justified the club’s hefty investment. Chelsea did have to weather some tense moments. Marc Cucurella made a crucial goal-line clearance after Hercules rounded Robert Sánchez and looked certain to equalize. Soon after, Fluminense…
Author: Damilola Amuda (Goalgetter)
Nigeria’s Super Falcons kicked off their quest for a record-extending 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) crown in emphatic fashion on Sunday, cruising to a 3-0 victory over Tunisia in their Group B opener. The nine-time African champions wasted no time stamping their authority on the contest. Star striker Asisat Oshoala fired Nigeria into an early lead, setting the tone for what would become a dominant display. In the 44th minute, debutant Rinsola Babajide doubled the advantage with a composed finish, giving the Falcons a commanding cushion going into the break. Tunisia returned with more grit in the second…
Paris Saint-Germain booked their spot in the Club World Cup semi-finals with a hard-fought win over Bayern Munich in a match filled with drama, controversy, and a worrying injury to Bayern’s Jamal Musiala. Desire Doue, PSG’s Champions League final hero against Inter Milan, broke the deadlock in the 78th minute with a precise low strike into the corner. Despite going down to nine men after red cards for Willian Pacho and Lucas Hernandez, Ousmane Dembele sealed the victory in stoppage time, setting up a mouthwatering semi-final against either Real Madrid or Borussia Dortmund. The opening half in Atlanta was entertaining…
Chelsea have completed the signing of Borussia Dortmund forward Jamie Gittens for £51.5 million on a seven-year contract, further bolstering their attacking options ahead of the new season. The move was finalized on Thursday evening in Florida, where both clubs had been competing in the Club World Cup. Despite Bayern Munich also expressing interest, the 20-year-old England U21 international chose to commit his future to Stamford Bridge. Gittens, who contributed 12 goals and five assists across 48 appearances for Dortmund last season, will help strengthen Chelsea’s wide areas following their decision not to pursue a permanent move for Jadon Sancho.…
Chelsea secured their place in the FIFA Club World Cup semi-final after a dramatic 2-1 win over Palmeiras — a match that showcased the remarkable talent of Estevao Willian, who is on the verge of joining the Blues. Cole Palmer gave Chelsea an early advantage with a composed finish in the 16th minute. But Palmeiras hit back early in the second half through a moment of brilliance from Estevao, who fired in an equaliser from a seemingly impossible angle in the 53rd minute. While Estevao’s goal may have briefly threatened Chelsea’s progress, Malo Gusto’s cross — deflected into his own…
Nigeria international Paul Onuachu has officially joined Trabzonspor on a permanent transfer from Southampton, with the Turkish club securing his signature for €5.6 million (approximately $6.6 million). The striker returns to familiar ground after an impressive loan stint during the 2023/24 season, where he made a significant impact for Trabzonspor. Onuachu, 31, found the back of the net 17 times in just 25 appearances, showcasing his predatory instincts and ability to thrive in the Turkish Super Lig. His time at Southampton was far less prolific, with only four goals and one assist in 25 league games last term. Clearly, the…
Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) side Kano Pillars have announced the appointment of former Super Eagles captain Ahmed Musa as their new General Manager. The confirmation came as the Kano State Government unveiled a newly reconstituted board for the four-time NPFL champions on Friday. Musa, who featured for the Sai Masu Gida during the 2024/25 season, is expected to bring his extensive experience and proven leadership to the role. According to the government, the move is a strategic effort aimed at repositioning the club as a major force in the league. Ali Muhammad Umar retains his position as the club…
Footballer Thomas Partey has been charged with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault, according to the Metropolitan Police. The alleged offences are said to have taken place between 2021 and 2022. The charges relate to three women: two counts of rape involve one woman, while three additional counts of rape are connected to a second woman. A further sexual assault charge involves a third woman. Partey’s contract with Arsenal, where he has played since 2020, ended on Monday. The Ghanaian midfielder was signed from Atletico Madrid for £45.3 million and made 130 Premier League appearances for…
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has confirmed a significant prize money increase for the upcoming 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). In a move aimed at further elevating the women’s game, CAF has boosted the total prize pool for the WAFCON finals by 45%. According to the new prize breakdown, the tournament champions will walk away with a whopping $1 million. The runners-up will claim $500,000, while the third- and fourth-place teams will earn $350,000 and $300,000 respectively. Quarter-finalists will also be rewarded with $200,000 each. Meanwhile, teams finishing third and fourth in their respective groups will receive…
Nigerian football is mourning the loss of one of its greatest ever goalkeepers, Peter Rufai, who sadly passed away on Thursday morning at the age of 61 after a prolonged illness. Affectionately known as Dodo Mayana, Rufai’s name is etched in Nigerian football history for his outstanding contributions to the sport. Rufai was a vital part of the Super Eagles squad that lifted the Africa Cup of Nations trophy in Tunisia in 1994, a triumph that still resonates with fans to this day. He also represented Nigeria on the global stage, featuring at two FIFA World Cups — in 1994 (USA)…