Author: Gabby

Super Eagles defender Zaidu Sanusi has expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance despite their 2-1 loss to Portugal in Wednesday’s friendly at the Estádio Dr. Magalhães Pessoa in Leiria.

The Nigeria international, who plies his trade with FC Porto, noted that the three-time African champions showed significant improvement compared to their previous encounter with Portugal, where they suffered a heavy 4-0 defeat.

“The first half was tough, but we managed to keep things under control. Portugal are a very strong side; four years ago we lost 4-0, but this time we conceded fewer goals, which is a positive step,” the left-back stated after the match.

Eric Chelle’s side troubled the Portuguese defense with their fluid movement in the opening period and created several scoring opportunities. Sanusi highlighted that the team’s overall display was commendable, particularly in the first half.

The 28-year-old also voiced his support for Portugal ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, calling the nation his “second country.” He added, “I can’t predict how far they will go, but I hope they become world champions.”

Pedro Neto has expressed his delight with Portugal’s performance following their 2-1 friendly victory over Nigeria, stating the team is well-prepared for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The match took place at Estádio Dr. Magalhães Pessoa in Leiria on Wednesday evening.

Neto opened the scoring in the 23rd minute with a fine strike, marking his first goal in four months for both club and country. The Chelsea winger’s effort was equalized by Sevilla striker Akor Adams in the 37th minute. Substitute Francisco Conceicao netted the winner 15 minutes from time.

Reflecting on the win and the earlier match against Chile, Neto commented: “These games help us assimilate ideas. Some players were missing during the Mexico training camp, and we hadn’t been together for a long time. But we will be ready.”

The friendly served as a crucial preparatory fixture for Portugal ahead of the World Cup. Neto’s positive outlook underscores the squad’s confidence as they fine-tune their strategies for the global tournament.

Renowned journalist and ex-presidential spokesperson Reuben Abati has called on Nigerians to back Mexico when they face South Africa in the World Cup opener, linking his plea to the persistent xenophobic attacks targeting Nigerians in South Africa.

During an appearance on Arise Television’s Morning Show on Thursday, Abati highlighted the federal government’s ongoing evacuation of Nigerians affected by xenophobic violence. He noted that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed arrangements for the return of those who registered, with an initial group of 278 individuals expected to be repatriated.

Abati emphasized that the government pledged to assist and rehabilitate five batches of returnees, with over 1,000 Nigerians expressing interest in coming back. He argued that this situation should prompt a deeper reflection on Nigeria’s domestic conditions, stating that if basic amenities like electricity, water, and healthcare were readily available, fewer citizens would seek opportunities abroad.

Shifting focus to football, Abati encouraged Nigerians to support Mexico in their opening match against South Africa at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City. He humorously warned that backing South Africa might provoke accusations that Nigerians are encroaching on local opportunities, potentially sparking further xenophobic incidents.

“The foreign affairs spokesman confirmed that all preparations are complete for the return of Nigerians who signed up due to xenophobic attacks. The first 278 will be assisted and rehabilitated by the government,” Abati stated. “We’ve been assured of five batches, with over 1,000 Nigerians willing to come home. This teaches us that a well-organized nation would eliminate the need for citizens to seek basic services elsewhere.”

He added, “Today, South Africa and Mexico meet at the Azteca Stadium. I urge all Nigerians to support Mexico, so South Africans don’t claim, ‘These Nigerians are at it again, doing our jobs for us,’ leading to more xenophobic attacks. It’s safer to cheer Mexico in this World Cup opener. The match is at 1 PM local time, 7 PM this evening, and I expect Nigerians to back Mexico. They say we dislike them and steal their jobs. Let’s not do their work for them—support Mexico.”

In an unexpected turn of events, former Real Madrid boss Alvaro Arbeloa is reportedly on the verge of taking the helm at Premier League side Fulham. The 43-year-old, who previously managed the Spanish giants, has been identified as the top candidate to succeed Marco Silva at Craven Cottage.

Silva recently departed Fulham to assume the managerial role at Benfica, replacing Jose Mourinho, who is himself poised to return to Real Madrid. This domino effect has created an opening for Arbeloa, who stepped into the Real Madrid hot seat after Xabi Alonso was dismissed in January. Alonso now manages Chelsea.

According to The Athletic, talks between Arbeloa and Fulham have already taken place. The former defender, who had a distinguished playing career with Real Madrid, Liverpool, and West Ham United, is now being lined up for his first Premier League managerial challenge. Fulham are keen to finalize the appointment quickly as they prepare for the upcoming season.

The Nigerian national football team, the Super Eagles, have maintained their 26th position globally in the most recent FIFA World Rankings released on Thursday. Despite playing several international friendlies, the team’s spot remains unchanged, according to the official standings.

Under the guidance of coach Éric Chelle, the Super Eagles participated in the Unity Cup invitational tournament in London last month. They secured a 2-0 win against Zimbabwe and a 3-0 victory over Jamaica. However, their performance in June included a 2-2 draw with Poland in Warsaw and a 2-1 loss to Portugal in Leiria.

On the African continent, Nigeria continues to hold third place, trailing behind Morocco and Senegal. Algeria and Egypt round out the top five African teams. Globally, the top five positions remain stable, with Argentina leading, followed by Spain, France, England, and Portugal.

The next FIFA rankings update is scheduled for release on Monday, July 20.

John Terry, the legendary Chelsea defender, has shed light on why John Obi Mikel is deeply frustrated about Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup. According to Terry, the former Super Eagles captain is not just disappointed for his country but also because it limits his opportunities as a commentator.

Speaking during a SuperSport virtual media roundtable, Terry emphasized that Nigeria’s absence from the tournament is a significant loss. He expressed a strong desire to see the Super Eagles compete, highlighting the abundance of talented players in the squad.

Terry noted, ‘Nigeria will be hugely missed. It would have been fantastic to see a top team like them at the World Cup because they boast exceptional individuals.’ He then added, ‘I know Obi is really upset that they’re not there. It means he can’t do more commentating on the World Cup. That’s the real reason for his disappointment.’

The 2026 World Cup kicks off today, and Nigeria is notably absent after failing to secure a spot in the tournament. This marks another disappointing chapter for Nigerian football fans, who had hoped to see their team on the global stage.