by Emmanuel Atanga | Jun 21, 2025 | Africa, Europe, International, Nigeria, Soccer, World Cup
Spanish-born striker of Nigerian descent, Samu Aghehowa, made headlines once again with a stunning performance at the FIFA Club World Cup, scoring against Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami in a dramatic Group A clash on Thursday night.
Playing at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium, the 21-year-old forward gave FC Porto an early lead, calmly converting a penalty in the 8th minute. Aghehowa, who chose to represent Spain despite his Nigerian heritage, was a constant menace in the first half, showcasing the form that has seen him net 26 goals and three assists in just 44 appearances since joining Porto from Atletico Madrid in the summer of 2024.
Despite his brilliance, Porto couldn’t maintain their lead. Inter Miami responded after the break, with Venezuelan midfielder Telasco Segovia equalizing before Lionel Messi sealed a memorable 2-1 comeback victory for the MLS side, much to the delight of a buzzing Miami fanbase.
On the other hand, Super Eagles left-back Zaidu Sanusi was left on the bench for the entire match. The 28-year-old continues to struggle for game time following his return from injury, sparking further doubts about his future at the Portuguese club.
The loss leaves FC Porto third in Group A with just one point, behind Palmeiras and Inter Miami, both on four points. With only one group game remaining, the Portuguese giants face the real threat of an early exit from the tournament.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jun 21, 2025 | AFCON, Africa, Ghana, International, Nigeria, Soccer, World Cup
Lawrence Agyekum, the promising Ghanaian midfielder who plies his trade with Belgian side Cercle Brugge, has opened up about a personal dream he hoped to fulfill during the recently concluded Unity Cup tournament — scoring against Nigeria.
Born to a Ghanaian father and a Nigerian mother, Agyekum was especially eager for the “Jollof Derby” between the Black Stars and the Super Eagles. For him, it wasn’t just about national pride — it was family bragging rights.
“I had a dream that I scored my first national goal before the Unity Cup,” Agyekum told Ghana Guardian. “My mum is Nigerian, so I just wanted to torment her a little bit, but it did not happen.”
Sadly, the chance never came. Ghana’s coach Otto Addo benched the 21-year-old for the semi-final clash against Nigeria, a match Ghana went on to lose 2-1 after an own goal by Razak Simpson and a composed finish from Cyriel Dessers.
Though disappointed, Agyekum didn’t leave the tournament empty-handed. He featured in the third-place match against Trinidad and Tobago — and made his mark. The young midfielder found the back of the net, fulfilling at least part of his pre-tournament vision.
“Fortunately for me, I did score, and I was really happy the dream came true,” Agyekum added.
With Ghana failing to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations — their first absence in two decades — Agyekum urged his teammates and fans to look ahead.
“Not qualifying for AFCON doesn’t mean we are a failure. We must focus on the World Cup and leave what is behind. The World Cup is the tournament ahead of us, and that’s where our attention should be,” he told Sportsblog247.com.
Meanwhile, Nigeria’s own journey to the 2026 FIFA World Cup looks challenging. The Super Eagles have managed just one win from their four qualifiers so far, leaving their path to North America wide open — and uncertain.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jun 21, 2025 | Africa, Europe, International, Nigeria, Soccer
In what could be a fresh twist in his career, Nigerian international Joe Aribo is attracting strong interest from Bundesliga side RB Leipzig, as the German outfit looks to bolster its midfield ahead of the 2025/26 season.
RB Leipzig—who once had Ademola Lookman in their ranks during the 2018 season—are now reportedly eyeing another Super Eagles star, with Aribo emerging as a key target. According to Africa Foot, the club has already made contact with the Southampton midfielder’s representatives, laying the groundwork for a potential summer transfer.
The 28-year-old endured a turbulent 2024/25 campaign at Southampton, featuring 35 times across all competitions. Despite his efforts, the Saints were relegated to the English Championship—an outcome that has left Aribo considering his options.
Sources close to the player indicate he is not keen on competing in the second tier of English football. Instead, a return to top-flight competition is on his radar, and Leipzig may offer just that opportunity.
Aribo initially joined Southampton in July 2022 from Rangers and impressed under former boss Ralph Hasenhüttl. However, his progress has been hampered by managerial instability and inconsistent form at the club. A switch to Germany could be the career reset he needs.
With Leipzig eyeing midfield reinforcements, Aribo’s versatility, experience, and international pedigree make him a compelling option. Talks are still in early stages, but fans can expect further developments as the transfer window heats up.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jun 21, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Ghanaian defender Philimon Tawiah has officially parted ways with German club FC Gütersloh following the expiration of his contract.
Tawiah, 26, joined the Regionalliga outfit in 2023 and quickly established himself as a key figure in their backline. Known for his technical ability, tireless work rate, and sharp ball control, the former Tudu Mighty Jets full-back became a fan favorite during his time with the club.
However, FC Gütersloh have decided not to extend Tawiah’s contract as they embark on a new direction ahead of the upcoming season. His departure marks the end of a solid stint in which he was instrumental over two competitive campaigns.
Now a free agent, Tawiah is expected to remain in Europe, with reports indicating growing interest from several clubs within the German lower-tier leagues. Sources close to the player say he is content with life in Germany and is keen on continuing his professional career in the country.
With his stamina and consistent performance on the flanks, Tawiah is likely to attract attention in the current transfer window as clubs seek to bolster their squads.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jun 20, 2025 | AFCON, Africa, Ghana, Nigeria, Soccer
As the countdown to the 2025 CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) begins, head coach of Ghana’s Black Queens, Kim Lars Bjorkegren, has underlined the importance of international friendlies in the team’s final phase of preparations.
Currently camped in Morocco, the Black Queens are set to engage in three crucial warm-up matches this month—against Malawi, Botswana, and regional rivals Nigeria. These games, Bjorkegren says, are not just routine fixtures but strategic opportunities to sharpen the team’s readiness for the continental showdown.
“We want to test ourselves against different playing styles and team dynamics,” the coach said in an interview shared on the Ghana FA’s official platform. “Malawi and Botswana provide technical and disciplined opposition, while Nigeria offers the challenge of a traditional powerhouse.”
Ghana will open the friendly series against Malawi on June 21 at the Ziaida Complex in Benslimane. Four days later, the Queens will take on Botswana at the same venue, before wrapping up with a much-anticipated clash against the Super Falcons of Nigeria on Friday, June 29, at the Lanouria Complex.
These matches are seen as a critical barometer for assessing tactical cohesion, individual player form, and overall team chemistry as the Queens aim to make a strong statement at WAFCON 2025.
