by Emmanuel Atanga | Apr 14, 2025 | Africa, Europe, International, Soccer, World Cup
Didier Drogba, one of Africa’s greatest-ever footballers and Chelsea’s talismanic striker, is no stranger to rubbing shoulders with the best in the game. From leading the Blues to Champions League glory to going head-to-head with the likes of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, Drogba saw it all at the highest level.
Yet back in 2018, the Ivorian made headlines with a bold claim that surprised many fans of the beautiful game. Speaking to The Mirror, Drogba was asked about Lionel Messi — and while his praise for the Argentine was clear, he didn’t quite crown him the greatest.
“Messi could stop now, and he would already have done a lot for football,” Drogba said. “To win a World Cup would make him even more legendary. He’s an extraordinary player!”
But then came the twist. Despite the glowing admiration, Drogba added: “He’s still not at the heights of Maradona and Pele, but he’s not far away.”
At the time, Messi had not yet won the World Cup — something that, for many, stood between him and football immortality. Fast forward to 2022, and Messi finally lifted the iconic trophy in Qatar, adding the last jewel to an already glittering crown.
Did Drogba change his view after that legendary moment? We don’t yet know. But his earlier words placed Diego Maradona and Pelé — two South American legends — at the top of the football pantheon, with Messi chasing their shadows.
Interestingly, Drogba also had high praise for Cristiano Ronaldo during the 2018 World Cup, calling him “the best striker at the moment in the world.” He continued:
“He is complete — headers, left foot, right foot, free-kicks. Always moving. It’s very difficult for defenders to stop him.”
As 2025 rolls on, the football world still debates who truly sits on the throne. Has Messi’s full trophy cabinet, including that long-awaited World Cup, finally earned him the nod from Drogba over his childhood heroes?
Time may tell. But one thing remains clear: Drogba’s respect for the greats, including Messi and Ronaldo, is unwavering — even if his personal Mount Rushmore of football might still have a classic 80s touch.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Apr 13, 2025 | Africa, Europe, International, Soccer, World Cup
In a major show of collaboration ahead of two of football’s most anticipated global events, FIFA President Gianni Infantino met with United States Attorney General Pamela Bondi and FBI Director Kash Patel at FIFA’s Miami office on Wednesday. The high-level meeting comes as preparations intensify for the USA’s hosting of the inaugural 32-team FIFA Club World Cup in 2025 and the expanded 48-team FIFA World Cup in 2026.
The gathering was rich in symbolism and significance, highlighting the growing synergy between FIFA and U.S. authorities. All parties expressed their unified commitment to delivering successful, secure, and celebratory tournaments.
“A big thank you to U.S. Attorney General Pamela Bondi, FBI Director Kash Patel, their teams, and members of the 2026 FIFA World Cup organizing committee for the great collaborative spirit,” said Infantino. “We are looking forward to welcoming the world to the U.S. in 2025 and 2026, in a global celebration of football, peace, and happiness. That is our shared mission and commitment.”
Infantino emphasized the broader impact of the 2026 World Cup, noting, “This first 48-team edition will not only bring joy to billions but also stimulate economic growth and leave a lasting legacy for children in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.”
FBI Director Patel echoed the sentiment, stating, “The FBI is proud to work with FIFA to ensure global security for the 2026 World Cup in the U.S. Thank you, President Infantino, for your collaboration and partnership.”
The meeting underscored the trust FIFA has earned under its current leadership and reflects the organization’s transformation over recent years.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Apr 13, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Partey has expressed his ambition to continue improving his overall game, especially in front of goal, after scoring a crucial equaliser for Arsenal in their 1-1 draw against Brentford in the English Premier League on Saturday.
Partey, who started in midfield for the Gunners, netted his fourth goal of the 2024/25 season, helping Arsenal salvage a point in a tightly contested encounter at the Emirates. The Black Stars enforcer revealed in a post-match interview that the goal was a result of consistent practice and a testament to the team’s attacking fluidity.
“It’s something that we’ve been doing for a while now. I’m lucky to be at that position at that time. But normally we have a lot of quick players who are always on the counter. I think it’s just something that we always do,” Partey said. “Sometimes it’s the best part of the game to score. And I’m really happy to have a goal. Every player on the pitch wants to score from the back. It’s a great one for me personally to keep improving.”
However, Partey’s availability for Arsenal’s crucial UEFA Champions League quarter-final second-leg clash against Real Madrid is in doubt. The 30-year-old will undergo further assessment ahead of the showdown on Wednesday, April 16.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Apr 13, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Arsenal’s preparations for their crucial UEFA Champions League quarter-final second-leg encounter against Real Madrid have been rocked by an injury concern surrounding key midfielder Thomas Partey.
The Ghanaian international, who was instrumental in Arsenal’s commanding 3-0 victory in the first leg, is now a doubt for the return fixture in Madrid on Wednesday, April 16. Partey’s midfield dominance and defensive solidity were vital in neutralizing Real Madrid’s threats, and his potential absence could prove costly.
The injury scare arose during Arsenal’s Premier League match against Brentford on Saturday, where Partey was forced off early after picking up a knock. Speaking after the match, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta confirmed the concern but emphasized the decision was precautionary.
“Thomas Partey felt something, so we didn’t want to take any risks,” Arteta said. “We don’t know yet, I haven’t spoken to the doctors. Hopefully, it’s nothing serious.”
Arteta also hinted at other injury concerns in the squad, including defender Ben White, who was left out of the Brentford clash entirely.
With just days to go before the high-stakes second leg at the Santiago Bernabéu, Arsenal fans—and Ghanaian supporters alike—will be anxiously awaiting updates on Partey’s fitness, hoping the midfield maestro can recover in time to help the Gunners secure a historic semi-final berth.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Apr 13, 2025 | AFCON, Africa, Nigeria, Soccer
In the latest CAF Five-Year Club Rankings, Rivers United have emerged as the lone Nigerian representative in the top 30, securing the 24th spot on the continent. The Port Harcourt-based side amassed 14 points over the assessment period, highlighting their consistency in continental competitions.
Despite Nigeria’s rich football history, Rivers United are the only club to crack the elite list this time, following the conclusion of the CAF Champions League and Confederation Cup quarterfinals.
Dominating the rankings once again is Egyptian powerhouse Al Ahly, firmly seated at the top with 78 points. Mamelodi Sundowns of South Africa and Esperance of Tunisia follow in second and third places, respectively, reinforcing North and Southern Africa’s grip on club football dominance.
