Category sport-news

Modric To Join AC Milan After Club World Cup

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Luka Modric, the Croatian captain, will leave Real Madrid after the Club World Cup, according to AC Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri on Monday.

Modric, who turns 40 in September, signed for Madrid from Tottenham in 2012 and has been linked with a move to Italy since early June, when he announced his intention to leave the Spanish giants at the end of his contract.

On Wednesday, Madrid will face Paris Saint-Germain in the Club World Cup semifinals. On July 13th, the final will be held.

Read more about Super Falcons’ efforts to launch the WAFCON campaign.

At his first press conference since becoming Milan manager, Allegri stated, “He’ll arrive in August.”

It would be useless to discuss him more because he is an extraordinary and significant player.

Allegri returned to Milan after leading them to the Serie A title in 2011 during his first two years in charge, 2010-2014.

On August 17, they play their first game of the new year in the Italian Cup.

Fans Queue For Opening Of Cristiano Ronaldo Museum In Hong Kong

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Cristiano Ronaldo’s trophies and jerseys were in the front of a photo exhibition billed as the first of its kind outside of the superstar’s native Portugal, which fans waited for hours in.

Visitors to the “CR7 LIFE Museum Hong Kong”‘s grand opening, which featured two life-size statues of the former Manchester United and Real Madrid players, including two in traditional Saudi attire and one in midair, posed next to them.

Alvin Lai, 14, who was standing first in a crowd of more than 100, declared, “Cristiano Ronaldo is my idol… he’s special.”

Cristiano Ronaldo
During the opening of the CR7 LIFE Museum in Hong Kong on July 7, 2025, two fans pose with the footballer’s brother Hugo dos Santos Aveiro (C) and receive autographed Cristiano Ronaldo jerseys. (Photo by Vinci AO/AFPTV/AFP)

Henry Singh, a student at the university, described him as the “most hardworking person out there.”

He is 40 years old and still exerts great strength.

READ MORE: Cristiano Ronaldo, “We’ll All Miss You,” and “We’ll All Miss You” on Diogo Jota’s death.

Cristiano Ronaldo
During the CR7 LIFE Museum’s opening in Hong Kong on July 7, 2025, the footballer’s Golden Boot trophy is displayed next to a portrait of the player. (Photo by Holmes CHAN/AFP)

Ronaldo called it a “new chapter” in an Instagram post last month after agreeing to a new two-year contract with Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr&nbsp.

Next month, Al Nassr are scheduled to compete in a pre-season competition in Hong Kong.

Ronaldo, a five-time winner of the Ballon d’Or, will be greeted fans at the museum “very soon,” according to Tomas Froes, a family office representative.

Cristiano Ronaldo
During the CR7 LIFE Museum’s opening on July 7, 2025, a visitor (L) stands in front of a sizable footballer’s mural. (Photo by Holmes CHAN/AFP)

According to Froes, the 12, 000 square feet (1, 110 square meters) exhibition sends a “strong message to everyone who wants to realize their dreams.”

Super Falcons Outclass Tunisia To Kickstart WAFCON Campaign

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Super Falcons of Nigeria on Sunday beat Tunisia 3-0 in their opening match of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON)  at the Stade Larbi Zaouli in Casablanca, Morocco.

The Super Falcons would opened the scoring in the 3rd minute as a well-delivered free kick from Rinsola Babajide found Asisat Oshoala, who headed in the ball to give Nigeria the lead.

Justine Madugu’s charges kept up the pressure and were duly rewarded in the 45th minute of the first half, as Babajide, who provided the assist for the first goal, turned goal scorer as she beat the Tunisian goalkeeper for the second.

READ ALSO:  Nigeria’s Super Falcons Begin 10th WAFCON Quest Against Tunisia   

She pulled out a Diogo Jota’s trademark celebration, paying tribute to the Liverpool star, who sadly passed away last Thursday alongside his brother, Andre Silva.

Super Falcons had chances to put the game to bed, but couldn’t convert, and returnee Ashleigh Plumptre tried her luck with a floating strike from distance, but the Tunisian goalkeeper managed to tip the ball over the bar.

The continued pressure paid off for the Falcons as in the 80th minute, with Chinwendu Ihezuo finding the bottom corner with a composed left-footed finish to complete the routing.

Nigeria’s Super Falcons Begin 10th WAFCON Quest Against Tunisia   

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With nine titles to their name, Nigeria’s Super Falcons kick off their search for a record-extending 10th continental crown as they face Tunisia in their opening match of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

The Group B encounter, set for Sunday at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca, marks Nigeria’s first step in the tournament. Algeria and Botswana complete the group alongside the Carthage Eagles.

A win in their opener would set the tone for the Super Falcons — long regarded as the dominant force in African women’s football and perennial favourites at every WAFCON.

Experience Meets Emerging Talents

Coach Justin Madugu’s team boasts a blend of youthful flair and experience, with captain Rasheedat Ajibade and six-time African Women’s Player of the Year Asisat Oshoala providing vital support. Versatile defender Ashley Plumptre is also in the squad, which includes fan favourite Michelle Alozie, PSG star Jennifer Echegini, and midfield maestro Christy Ucheibe, among others.

Nigeria are nine-time African champions. X@NGSuper_Falcons

With reigning African Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year, Chiamaka Nnadozie, in goal, and the hardworking Osinachi Ohale anchoring the defence, the Super Falcons look like a team that will be difficult to beat in Morocco.

Nigeria won two of their last three games heading into the tournament — securing victories against Cameroon and Ghana, and earning a draw against Portugal.

Tunisia’s Journey: From 2008 Debutants to Quarter-Finalists

Tunisia, playing in only their second WAFCON, made their debut in 2008 but failed to advance beyond the group stage. In the last edition, however, the North Africans reached the quarter-finals before being eliminated by the eventual champions, South Africa.

The Tunisians

Houij and Ellouz Lead Tunisia’s Charge

While they may not boast the star power of the Super Falcons, Tunisia’s Mariem Houij is a player the Nigerians must keep an eye on. The Galatasaray forward’s goal scoring ability sets her apart. Her contributions — along with those of Sabrine Ellouz — will be crucial to the Carthage Eagles against Nigeria.

Coach Kamel Saada’s side are growing in confidence and ambition. They scored 18 goals during the qualifiers — against Niger Republic and Congo — but have struggled in recent friendlies, suffering defeats to Kenya and Morocco.

Coaches’ Insights: Respect for All, Confidence Within

Saada knows Tunisia are in a tough group and will need to go the extra mile to make a statement in Morocco.

“It’s a tough group. Everyone knows the quality of Nigeria. Algeria is improving fast. Botswana too. We’re not underestimating anyone. We’ll need to be disciplined, focused, and play our best football,” she told CAF Online.

A good result on Sunday would boost Tunisia’s chances of equalling or surpassing their performance at the last tournament.

Despite Tunisia’s pedigree in comparison to the Super Falcons, Nigeria coach Madugu is taking nothing for granted. Speaking at a pre-match press conference, he stressed that no team should be underestimated.

“There are no minnows as far as football is concerned in Africa. Looking at the results from the qualifiers, we wouldn’t consider anyone to be a weak team,” Madugu said.

Still, he remains confident of getting the job done against Tunisia.

“We are very focused on our realisable and achievable target of Mission X,” he told thenff. com. “The girls are ready and are showing real hunger for victory, and team spirit is high. We are looking forward to our first match on Sunday against Tunisia. ”

Familiar Foes: A Rare But Memorable Clash

When the game kicks off, Nigeria won’t be facing an unfamiliar opponent. The Super Falcons have met the Tunisians once before in the tournament — back in 2008. That match ended goalless, one of the rare occasions Nigeria have failed to score at the WAFCON.

Three Points, ‘Mission X’ at Stake

A victory over Tunisia will ease the pressure on Nigeria as they push for their 10th title. For the Maghreb nation, a win would be historic. Even a point would represent a strong start.

Nigeria vs Tunisia – WAFCON 2025 Match Details

Arsenal Sign Spain Midfielder Zubimendi

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Arsenal on Sunday announced the signing of midfielder Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad in a deal reportedly worth around £55 million ($75 million).

Euro 2024 winner Zubimendi had previously been a target for Liverpool and was also linked with Real Madrid.

“This is a huge moment in my career,” said the defensive midfielder, who is understood to have put pen to paper on a five-year deal.

“It’s the move I was looking for and one I wanted to make. As soon as you set foot here, you realise how big this club and this team are.

“I set my sights on Arsenal because their style of play is a good fit for me. They have shown their potential recently and the best is yet to come. ”

READ ALSO: Man City Defender Walker Joins Burnley

The Athletic reported that Arsenal paid above Zubimendi’s 60 million euro ($71 million, £51 million) buyout clause in order to spread the cost of the fee over a number of installments.

Zubimendi, 26, made 236 appearances in all competitions for Sociedad after graduating from the club’s academy and has played 19 times for Spain.

He will reinforce manager Mikel Arteta’s midfield options after the departures of Thomas Partey and Jorginho.

Zubimendi’s arrival paves the way for Arsenal’s record signing Declan Rice to play a more attacking midfield role alongside captain Martin Odegaard.

“Martin is a player who will bring a huge amount of quality and football intelligence to our team,” said Arteta.

“He will fit in really well and he has all the attributes to be a key player for us. ”

Zubimendi is Arsenal’s second signing of the summer transfer window after goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga joined from Chelsea.

The Gunners are also expected to complete the signing of midfielder Christian Norgaard from Brentford.

Arsenal finished second in the Premier League last season for a third straight year and reached the semi-finals of the Champions League but ultimately ended up without a trophy for a fifth consecutive season.

Attention will now turn to the forward line as the Gunners try to see off champions Liverpool and Manchester City and claim a first league title since 2003/04.

Arteta’s men had to cope without a natural striker for much of last season due to long-term injuries to Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus.

Reports on Sunday suggest a deal for Sporting Lisbon striker Viktor Gyokeres is on the verge of being sealed to fill the need for a new number nine.

Arsenal have also been linked with a move for Chelsea’s Noni Madueke.

Best Of African Women’s Football On Display As WAFCON Kicks Off

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The world is set to experience the best of women’s football on display from Africa as the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) kicks off in Morocco on Saturday, July 5th.

Postponed from last year, the 2024 WAFCON is a show of African football excellence, and it’s clear that the continent is buzzing with excitement. Morocco hosted the last edition, but this installment marks a new era in women’s football on the continent, building on the momentum of the previous tournament.

The prize money for the tournament has been jacked up to $1m, which is a significant increase and a testament to the growing popularity of the sport. The runners-up will get $500,000, while the third-placed and fourth-placed sides will go home with $350,000 and $300,000, respectively. In total, there is $3,475,000 up for grabs, making it a highly competitive tournament.  

CAF also introduced a new trophy for the competition.

READ ALSO:  Family And Football Unite To Bid Diogo Jota Farewell

Twelve teams will participate, divided into three groups,  and the competition is expected to be fierce. The first two teams in each group will qualify for the quarter-finals alongside the two best third-placed countries, ensuring that every match counts. Running from July 5th to 26th, the 2024 WAFCON coincides with the Women’s Euro, making it a thrilling summer for football fans.

The opening match will be between hosts Morocco and the Copper Queens of Zambia, and both sides are looking strong. Both sides impressed in the last edition staged in the North African country, with the Atlas Lionesses reaching their first final of the WAFCON, losing out to eventual winners South Africa. Zambia defeated Nigeria to claim bronze three years ago, and they’ll be looking to build on that success.

South Africa, the defending champions, will be aiming for their second WAFCON title after finally conquering the continent following several heartbreaking losses in past editions.

Nigeria’s Mission X

Having missed out on the podium in Morocco last time out, Nigeria’s Super Falcons are aiming to make it a 10th WAFCON title, and they’re determined to make a strong impression.

They are in Group B alongside Tunisia, Algeria, and Botswana, and the competition is expected to be tough. Coach Justin Madugu’s ladies will begin their title quest against Tunisia on Sunday, ready to start the competition on a winning note.

Nigeria boast an array of experienced and youthful players heading to Morocco, and they’ll be looking to make the most of their talent.

Veteran forward Asisat Oshoala, who has won the CAF Women’s Footballer of the Year prize six times, will be on hand to provide vital support to a team brimming with talent and experience.

With a defence that has reigning CAF Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year, Chiamaka Nnadozie, the hardworking defender Osinachi Ohale, and the highly-rated Ashleigh Plumptre, many teams may struggle to break down the Nigerian defence.

Captain Rasheedat Ajibade’s versatility and experience will be complemented by the youthful flair of Tosin Demehin, Michelle Alozie, Sikiratu Isah, Miracle Usani, and Deborah Abiodun. The Super Falcons will be buoyed by a string of positive results heading into the tournament, and they’ll be looking to build on that momentum.

Nigeria played three matches, winning two and drawing one  —   against European side Portugal, with victories over Cameroon and Ghana coming in between.