by Emmanuel Atanga | Feb 24, 2026 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Nigeria, Soccer
John Obi Mikel has voiced strong concerns about Chelsea FC’s trajectory under new head coach Liam Rosenior, claiming the club have “gone five steps backwards” following recent league performances.
Speaking on his podcast, the former Blues midfielder suggested that Chelsea made a mistake by parting ways with Enzo Maresca, whom he believes had established a clear identity and winning formula at Stamford Bridge.
Mikel pointed to back-to-back league draws — a 1-1 result against Burnley FC and a 2-2 stalemate with Leeds United — as evidence of regression. Against Burnley, Chelsea took an early lead through João Pedro after a low delivery from Pedro Neto, but failed to capitalise on their bright start. Similarly, they squandered a 2-0 advantage against Leeds in the previous fixture.
“We had Enzo Maresca. I’ve said it, I think it was a massive mistake to sack him,” Mikel said. “We took a step forward, and we’ve gone five steps backwards. Liam has come in and he’s won games, but there is absolutely something that is missing.”
Despite Mikel’s criticism, Rosenior’s record suggests a relatively solid start, with eight wins in his opening 12 matches across all competitions. While recent dropped points have sparked debate, some view Mikel’s remarks as an emotional reaction rather than a reflection of long-term decline.
Chelsea now face mounting pressure to rediscover consistency as they aim to remain competitive in the title race.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Feb 24, 2026 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Majeed Ashimeru has expressed regret following his early dismissal in RAAL La Louviere’s Belgian top-flight clash against K.V. Mechelen over the weekend.
The Ghanaian midfielder was shown a red card in the 16th minute after a VAR review deemed his challenge worthy of a sending-off, cutting short what was his first start for the club. Ashimeru had previously appeared as a substitute against Union SG and his parent club Anderlecht.
Taking to Instagram post-match, Ashimeru described the challenge as unintentional and apologized to fans, pledging to make amends for the setback.
Ashimeru joined La Louviere on loan from Anderlecht during the winter transfer window, becoming the club’s fourth signing of the period. His experience was highlighted by the management as a key addition to strengthen the squad’s campaign.
The red card comes at a crucial stage as La Louviere push to sustain momentum in the second half of the season. The midfielder will now miss upcoming matches due to suspension but is expected to return determined to contribute positively.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Feb 24, 2026 | AFCON, Africa, Soccer
Botswana Football Association (BFA) hosted a heartfelt appreciation ceremony for the Botswana national football team following their AFCON 2025 journey in Morocco — a campaign defined by resilience, unity, and national pride.
Drawn into a difficult group featuring continental heavyweights such as Senegal national football team and DR Congo national football team, the Zebras competed bravely despite entering the tournament as the lowest-ranked side. As a fully African-based squad, their performances reflected courage and determination, proving Botswana can stand firm against Africa’s elite.
Iron Men Recognised for Commitment
Several players earned special recognition for their outstanding effort throughout the competition. Goalkeeper Goitseone Phoko was honoured alongside Motusi Johnson and Mosha Gaolaolwe, who completed every minute of the tournament — embodying the Zebras’ “Iron Men” spirit through stamina, focus, and unwavering discipline.
Head coach Morena Ramorebodi also received praise for his leadership and professionalism, maintaining composure in high-pressure situations and representing Botswana with integrity on and off the pitch.
P5 Million Boost for Team and Technical Staff
A major highlight of the celebration was the announcement of a P5,033,557.05 support package raised through partnerships with the Ministry of Sport and Arts, DStv, Choppies Botswana, and other corporate sponsors. The funds will directly reward the players and technical team for their sacrifices and dedication.
The financial commitment underscores football’s growing role in Botswana’s economy and signals stronger collaboration between government institutions, corporate partners, and sports administrators to nurture local talent.
Building for the Future
BFA President Tariq Babitseng and CEO Mfolo Mfolo emphasized that AFCON 2025 marks the beginning of a new chapter rather than the end of a journey. They highlighted football’s potential to elevate Botswana’s global profile, export talent, and stimulate economic growth.
Support from the Botswana National Sport Commission, represented by Peaceful Seleka, further reinforced confidence in the team’s progress. Attention now turns to upcoming qualifiers at Obed Itani Chilume Stadium in Francistown, as the Zebras aim to build on the experience gained in Morocco.
While results may not have matched expectations, Botswana’s AFCON 2025 campaign has strengthened belief in a promising future — one driven by resilience, development, and unwavering national pride.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Feb 24, 2026 | AFCON, Africa, International, Nigeria, Soccer
The Technical Committee Chairman of the Nigeria Football Federation, Sherif Inuwa Ahlan, has reaffirmed that Eric Chelle will see out his current contract as head coach of the Nigeria national football team.
Chelle, who has approximately nine months remaining on his deal, has recently been linked with interest from clubs and national teams following his impressive achievement of guiding Nigeria to a third-place finish at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
Despite the growing speculation, Ahlan remains confident that the coach will respect the agreement he signed with the federation. According to a source who spoke to SCORENigeria, the NFF sees no reason to question Chelle’s future, insisting he is fully committed to honouring his contract.
The Super Eagles are set to return to action next month at a four-nation invitational tournament in Amman, where they will face Jordan national football team and Iran national football team.
With important international fixtures on the horizon, the NFF leadership remains optimistic that Chelle will stay focused on strengthening the squad and building momentum for upcoming challenges.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Feb 24, 2026 | Africa, Europe, International, Nigeria, Soccer, World Cup
Nigeria national football team will open camp on March 24 ahead of a crucial Four-Nation Invitational Tournament in Jordan, using the FIFA international window to fine-tune preparations during a turbulent period for Nigerian football.
The three-time African champions are scheduled to face World Cup-bound sides Iran national football team on March 27 and Jordan national football team on March 31. Both matches will be staged at the 17,000-capacity Amman International Stadium.
A senior team official confirmed that all arrangements align with the FIFA calendar, with players and technical staff expected to be in Amman from March 24 through March 31.
Head coach Eric Chelle is set to remain in charge for the tournament despite ongoing contract discussions with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF). Reports indicate Chelle has submitted a 19-point proposal that includes a request for an increased monthly salary, but the federation expects him to continue under his current terms as the team builds on its bronze-medal finish at the 2025 AFCON.
Off the pitch, uncertainty lingers as the NFF awaits a final decision from FIFA regarding Nigeria’s protest against DR Congo national football team. Nigeria alleges that the Leopards fielded ineligible players during the 2026 World Cup playoff final in Morocco — a match the Super Eagles lost 4–2 on penalties.
A favourable ruling could significantly reshape Nigeria’s qualification hopes, making the upcoming Jordan invitational both a preparation platform and a statement of intent during a pivotal phase.
