Author: Gabby

The 2026 FIFA World Cup has seen its first casualties, with three nations officially eliminated from the tournament. Tunisia, Haiti, and Turkey have all been mathematically ruled out of progressing to the knockout stages.

In the latest development, Tunisia’s hopes were dashed after a heavy 4-0 defeat to Japan at the Estadio Monterrey in Guadalupe. This result leaves the Carthage Eagles at the bottom of Group F with zero points after two matches, making advancement impossible. Their campaign started poorly with a 5-1 loss to Sweden.

Haiti and Turkey had already sealed their fate earlier in the week, as confirmed in previous reports. Tunisia will now face the Netherlands in their final group fixture, but the match is merely a formality.

With 48 teams participating in this expanded World Cup, the competition remains fierce, but these three teams will not be part of the Round of 32.

Tunisia’s head coach, Hervé Renard, has called on his squad to demonstrate fighting spirit and secure a victory in their final Group stage match against the Netherlands at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. After a disappointing 4-0 loss to Japan on Sunday, the Carthage Eagles find themselves eliminated from the tournament. This defeat followed a heavy 5-1 setback against Sweden in their opening fixture.

As the first African nation to be knocked out of the competition, Tunisia faces the Netherlands in what will be their last game. Renard emphasized the need for his players to end their campaign on a positive note. “In tough times like these, you have to keep battling. We must show pride and character to approach the third match in the best possible way,” the French manager stated after the Japan loss.

Despite the early exit, Renard is determined to see his team salvage some pride and deliver a strong performance against the Dutch side. The match promises to be a test of Tunisia’s resolve as they aim to finish their World Cup journey with a morale-boosting result.

Bayern Munich midfielder Konrad Laimer has openly praised Argentina as the top team in the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup, while also singling out Lionel Messi as the finest player on the planet.

Speaking to FIFA’s official website ahead of Austria’s Group J match against the reigning champions, Laimer shared his admiration for the South American side. “Argentina are the champions, so they are the best. And Messi is the best player,” the Austrian international stated.

The 29-year-old emphasized the challenge of facing world-class talent like Messi, saying, “It’s amazing to compete against players of such high quality. It shows you exactly where you stand. Argentina is a unique team with immense skill across the board.”

Laimer also stressed the importance of other group matches for Austria’s progression, adding, “We want to prove ourselves, but every game matters if we aim to advance. Still, going up against Argentina will be a true test.”

Mathew Arinze is now a free agent after his contract with Kwara United expired, as reported by DAILY POST. The experienced center-back spent three seasons with the Harmony Boys in Ilorin, where he was instrumental in helping the team avoid relegation during the previous campaign.

Since his departure, several NPFL clubs have made inquiries about signing him. Additionally, two African teams have expressed interest in the defender, according to sources. Arinze is carefully evaluating his options to find a club that aligns with his career aspirations following a successful stint with Kwara United.

Former Nigeria captain William Troost-Ekong has thrown his weight behind Ghana, forecasting a shared outcome in their upcoming World Cup 2026 Group L match against England. The game is scheduled to take place on Tuesday night in Foxborough.

Ghana kicked off their campaign with a narrow 1-0 victory over Panama. Meanwhile, England, currently topping the group on goal difference, secured a 4-2 win against Croatia in their opener.

Troost-Ekong, speaking to ESPN, expressed confidence in Ghana’s ability to hold the highly favored English side to a draw. “If I were to predict that game, I’d likely go with a draw, as I can see both teams scoring,” he stated.

The ex-Super Eagles skipper believes the Black Stars possess the necessary qualities to earn a point against Thomas Tuchel’s squad. Despite England’s strong start, Troost-Ekong feels Ghana can rise to the occasion and secure a stalemate.

Rivers United are reportedly monitoring the availability of Isaiah Ejeh, a former Nigeria U-23 international, as they prepare for the 2026-27 Nigeria Premier Football League season. The defender is currently a free agent after departing Bangladeshi club Bashundhara Kings.

Ejeh, who previously played for Kwara United in the NPFL, brings a blend of domestic and international experience. His stint in Bangladesh has kept him in shape, and he is now looking for a return to Nigerian football.

The Port Harcourt outfit is actively strengthening its defense as part of a squad overhaul. The club’s management believes that Ejeh’s background could significantly bolster the backline, especially with the added incentive of CAF Champions League football next season.

Sources indicate that the player himself is enthusiastic about rejoining the NPFL. A move to Rivers United would not only offer him competitive domestic action but also a chance to feature on the continental stage, making it an attractive proposition for both parties.

The Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) has unveiled its Best XI of the 2025/26 season, with Edo Queens and Nasarawa Amazons emerging as the most represented clubs, each contributing three players to the prestigious lineup. This announcement highlights the dominance of these two teams in the recently concluded campaign.

Abia Angels also made a strong showing with two representatives, while Rivers Angels, FC Robo Queens, and Bayelsa Queens each secured one spot. The selection reflects the competitive balance of the league, with multiple clubs showcasing top-tier talent.

In a notable individual honor, Moses Aduku of Edo Queens was named Manager of the Season after guiding his team to their second league title in club history. Aduku’s tactical acumen and leadership have been widely praised, particularly as the Benin City side prepares for the WAFU B Women’s Champions League in August.

The Best XI recognition underscores the depth and quality present in the NWFL, with players from both traditional powerhouses and emerging teams being acknowledged for their outstanding performances throughout the season.