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Luka Modric Poised for Real Madrid Comeback

Luka Modric Poised for Real Madrid Comeback

Real Madrid is actively pursuing a return for midfield legend Luka Modric, as reported by Marca. The Croatian international departed the Santiago Bernabéu in May 2025 after an illustrious 13-year stint, subsequently signing a short-term contract with AC Milan. Now at 40 years old, Modric is being courted by Madrid just over a year after his emotional farewell.

Club President Florentino Pérez has made it clear that Modric will have the freedom to shape his own role upon return. While the exact capacity remains uncertain, insiders suggest he may assume duties as sporting director or executive consultant, bringing his vast experience back to the Spanish capital.

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Folarin Balogun Bags Brace as USA Beat Paraguay 4-1 in World Cup Opener

Folarin Balogun Bags Brace as USA Beat Paraguay 4-1 in World Cup Opener

Folarin Balogun, the Nigerian-American striker, delivered a stellar performance for the United States on Saturday, scoring twice in a commanding 4-1 victory over Paraguay in their Group A match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The 25-year-old forward, who was born in Brooklyn to Nigerian parents, opened the scoring in the 31st minute and added a second just before the halftime whistle. His brace marked a historic achievement: Balogun became the first US player in 96 years to net multiple goals in a single World Cup game.

Balogun spent most of his childhood in England after his family moved there, which made him eligible to represent the United States, England, or Nigeria at the international level. His decision to play for the US has now paid off handsomely.

After the match, an emotional Balogun described the night as a dream come true. “It’s a dreamy night, to be honest,” he told reporters. “I haven’t fully processed it yet. I’m sure when I get back to my hotel and rest, I’ll really be able to soak in what an amazing evening this was.”

The United States will look to build on this impressive start as they continue their World Cup campaign.

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World Cup 2026: Giroud Snubs Morocco, South Africa, Picks Senegal, Ivory Coast or Ghana as Surprise Package

World Cup 2026: Giroud Snubs Morocco, South Africa, Picks Senegal, Ivory Coast or Ghana as Surprise Package

Former Arsenal and Chelsea star Olivier Giroud has overlooked Morocco and South Africa while highlighting which African nation could spring a surprise at the 2026 World Cup.

The tournament got underway on Thursday, with Mexico defeating South Africa 2-0 in the opening fixture. Ten African teams are competing in the World Cup, which is being hosted across Mexico, Canada, and the United States. These nations include Algeria, Cape Verde, Côte d’Ivoire, DR Congo, Egypt, Ghana, Morocco, Senegal, South Africa, and Tunisia.

However, Giroud has pinpointed Senegal, Ivory Coast, or Ghana as the potential dark horses. “One of the African teams can be the surprise team,” Giroud was quoted as saying by BBC Sport. “Maybe Ivory Coast, Senegal or Ghana – they are all dangerous teams on their day.”

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NWFL Super Six Showdown: Edo Queens, Bayelsa Queens, Nasarawa Amazons Vie for Glory

NWFL Super Six Showdown: Edo Queens, Bayelsa Queens, Nasarawa Amazons Vie for Glory

The 2025/26 Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) Super Six playoff concludes on Sunday with three clubs still in the race for the championship, according to reports. Defending champions Bayelsa Queens, Edo Queens, and Nasarawa Amazons are all within striking distance of the title heading into the final matchday.

Edo Queens currently lead the standings with nine points, while Bayelsa Queens and Nasarawa Amazons are tied on seven points each, creating a tense finish to the tournament. The most anticipated fixture of the day pits Edo Queens against the defending champions Bayelsa Queens in a high-stakes clash.

For Edo Queens, a victory would secure only their second league title ever. Even a draw could be sufficient if Nasarawa Amazons fail to overcome former champions Rivers Angels in the other match scheduled simultaneously. Moses Aduku’s side will be relying on their strong form to edge past the experienced Bayelsa outfit.

Nasarawa Amazons, meanwhile, must beat Rivers Angels and hope for a favorable result in the other game to keep their title hopes alive. The first match of the day features Abia Angels taking on FC Robo Queens, both seeking to end their campaigns on a high note despite being out of title contention.

All matches will be held at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium in Port Harcourt, with Abia Angels vs FC Robo Queens kicking off at 11:00 AM on the main bowl. The two pivotal fixtures—Bayelsa Queens vs Edo Queens and Nasarawa Amazons vs Rivers Angels—both start at 2:00 PM, with the latter taking place on the mini pitch.

The stakes could not be higher as these three teams battle for supremacy in Nigerian women’s football, promising a dramatic conclusion to the playoff series.

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Ranchers Bees Kaduna Commence Pre-season Training on Monday

Ranchers Bees Kaduna Commence Pre-season Training on Monday

Ranchers Bees Kaduna are set to kick off their preparations for the upcoming Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season with the start of training on Monday, June 15, 2026. The club communicated this via an official statement released to the press.

The training sessions will be held at Rimi College in Kaduna, marking the first step in their journey back to the top flight after an 18-year hiatus. The Bees earned promotion last season and are eager to make their mark in the NPFL.

This resumption signals a fresh chapter for the Kaduna-based side, which was officially promoted to the nation’s elite league. The club’s management has emphasized the importance of early preparations to ensure a competitive squad for the new season.

In addition to their training schedule, Ranchers Bees will be among four promoted clubs attending an NPFL orientation workshop scheduled for June 26 in Abuja. This workshop aims to familiarize them with league regulations and operational standards.

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Fidelis Ilechukwu Extends Stay with NPFL Champions Rangers

Fidelis Ilechukwu Extends Stay with NPFL Champions Rangers

Fidelis Ilechukwu has committed to Rangers for another season, signing a fresh one-year contract. The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) champions confirmed the extension, putting an end to swirling rumors about the coach’s future at the Enugu-based club.

The 47-year-old tactician was widely expected to depart following his remarkable achievement of leading Rangers to their ninth NPFL crown in the 2025/26 campaign. However, the new deal ensures continuity as the club aims to build on its success. This marks Ilechukwu’s second league title with Rangers, having previously guided them to the eighth championship in the 2023/24 season.

Ilechukwu took over as head coach of the Flying Antelopes in 2023 after leaving local rivals Heartland. In addition to his club duties, he serves as an assistant coach for the Super Eagles, Nigeria’s senior national team, balancing responsibilities at both domestic and international levels.

Under his leadership, Rangers have emerged as a dominant force in Nigerian football, and the extension is seen as a move to sustain that momentum ahead of the new season.

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Joe Aribo Set for Shock Rangers Comeback

Joe Aribo Set for Shock Rangers Comeback

Rangers are reportedly contemplating a move to bring Joe Aribo back to Ibrox, as the midfielder is currently a free agent after leaving Southampton. The Nigerian international, who spent three successful years with the Gers, departed the Scottish club in 2022 for a £10 million switch to the Saints. However, after falling out of favor at St. Mary’s, Aribo joined Leicester City on loan in January, where he made only six appearances and started just one game. His contract with Southampton has now expired, making him available on a free transfer. During his initial stint at Rangers, Aribo helped the club secure a league title and the Scottish Cup, and he also scored in the heartbreaking Europa League final loss to Eintracht Frankfurt. With his experience and familiarity with the club, a return could be beneficial for both parties.

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Thelma Reveals Why She Turned Down Rooboy’s Romantic Advance on BBNaija

Thelma Reveals Why She Turned Down Rooboy's Romantic Advance on BBNaija

During the final episode of the Big Brother Naija reunion aired on Friday night, former housemate Thelma Lawson finally opened up about her decision to reject fellow contestant Rooboy’s romantic proposal during the show. She disclosed that her primary reason was her son’s well-being, stating that Rooboy does not represent the kind of man she wants as a role model for her child.

Thelma pointed out specific aspects of Rooboy’s personality and lifestyle that influenced her choice, including his tattoos and his career as a hypeman. She expressed concerns about his behavior, noting that he could not even spell correctly and was too loud. ‘We can be friends, just friends,’ she emphasized, making it clear that she did not see him as a suitable partner.

Thelma also mentioned that Rooboy reacted negatively to her rejection, allegedly speculating that she was ‘a bitter person.’ Despite this, Rooboy admitted in the same episode that he had indeed asked Thelma out but claimed he was not upset by her refusal. Instead, he shifted blame, accusing fellow housemate Otega of betraying him by pursuing Thelma behind his back.

The reunion episode brought closure to several unresolved tensions from the season, with Thelma’s explanation shedding light on her perspective. ‘I told Thelma that I liked her and would like to date her. I was talking to Otega as a brother not knowing he was also in the picture,’ Rooboy said, reiterating his side of the story.

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Kannywood Star Hadiza Gabon, Businessman Salim Goje Caught Up in Social Media Firestorm Over Leaked Chats

Kannywood Star Hadiza Gabon, Businessman Salim Goje Caught Up in Social Media Firestorm Over Leaked Chats

A storm of controversy erupted on social media late Friday night, igniting intense debates across platforms as Kannywood veteran Hadiza Gabon, entrepreneur Salim Goje, and his wife Hafsat Kamal found themselves at the center of a heated online drama. The saga began when Hafsat Kamal went live on Instagram, allegedly sharing screenshots and videos she claimed were proof of her husband’s extramarital affairs.

During the live stream, Hafsat purportedly revealed conversations between Salim Goje and several women, including the prominent actress Hadiza Gabon. The leaked chats, which quickly spread across the internet, ostensibly depicted intimate and sexually suggestive exchanges between the actress and the businessman.

One of the most talked-about screenshots appeared to show Hadiza Gabon discussing plans for a trip to Saudi Arabia and allegedly requesting that Salim Goje cover her flight expenses. However, the authenticity of these messages has not been independently confirmed, leaving many online users skeptical.

Hafsat also accused other women, some of whom she claimed were married, of being involved with her husband. She further alleged that Salim’s first wife, Shafa Ardo, had used spiritual means to prevent her from conceiving children.

Hadiza Gabon, a highly respected figure in Kannywood with nearly three decades in the industry, has yet to issue a public statement regarding the allegations. Known for her acting prowess and as the host of the popular interview program “Gabon Talkshow,” she has built a strong reputation in northern Nigeria’s entertainment scene. Observers warn that if the claims are verified, they could tarnish her public image.

Meanwhile, a separate video circulating online allegedly shows Salim Goje attempting to gain entry into Hafsat Kamal’s residence shortly after the live broadcast commenced. The house was reportedly locked, and during the livestream, Hafsat appeared visibly upset, repeatedly urging viewers to lock windows and doors as she claimed unidentified people were trying to break in.

The Instagram Live session drew thousands of viewers, with reports of curious onlookers gathering outside her home. The incident quickly became a major topic of conversation, generating a flood of memes, jokes, and commentary on social media.

Shafa Ardo, Salim Goje’s first wife, fired back at Hafsat’s allegations via social media. In screenshots that surfaced online, Shafa dismissed claims that she was responsible for Hafsat’s infertility, stating, “You are not a woman who keeps secrets. Everything you accuse others of doing to you happened before you were married. You even followed him to Saudi Arabia before marriage.” She further asserted, “You know what is preventing you from having children. It has nothing to do with me.”

Online reactions have been mixed. Some users have expressed disappointment, calling for public figures to maintain decorum, while others urged caution, emphasizing that screenshots alone are not definitive proof. One X user commented, “People should wait for proper evidence before rushing to judgment. Anyone can use another person’s name or picture online.” Another remarked, “If these chats are genuine, it will be disappointing because many young people look up to these personalities.”

Although Salim Goje has not directly addressed the allegations, he posted a message on Facebook in Fulfulde: “Allah hokka kowa no wada. Amin,” which translates to “May Allah guide everyone to what is good. Amen.” Many responses expressed sympathy and advised him to resolve personal matters privately instead of allowing them to unfold publicly on social media.

As the discourse continues, many are awaiting official statements from Hadiza Gabon and Salim Goje regarding the authenticity of the alleged messages and the surrounding controversy.

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Peter Okoye: Age Shouldn’t Hinder Music Passion

Peter Okoye: Age Shouldn't Hinder Music Passion

Nigerian music star Peter Okoye, better known as Mr P and one half of the now-defunct P-Square, has responded firmly to recent calls for his retirement from the music scene. Addressing critics during a chat with The Beat FM Lagos, the 44-year-old artist made it clear that age is no barrier to pursuing a musical career.

According to him, the concept of retirement does not exist in the world of music. He pointed to global icons like Michael Jackson, who continued making hits and planning tours well into his 50s before his untimely death. Okoye argued that those urging him to step down are simply wishing for his failure.

“We should be mindful of how people try to bring others down. There’s no retirement in music. I don’t understand why some folks think music has a retirement age,” Okoye stated. He added that this trend of demanding retirement is peculiar to Nigeria, noting that even artists like Wizkid have faced similar calls.

Okoye emphasized that his passion for music remains undimmed, and he has no plans to quit anytime soon. He urged fans to focus on supporting artists rather than pushing them out of the industry based on age.