TIG Post

Author: Abigail Ampofo

  • Emmanuel Amunike may want to be the next coach for Nigeria’s Super Eagles

    Emmanuel Amunike may want to be the next coach for Nigeria’s Super Eagles

    Emmanuel Amunike has made it clear that he is interested in becoming the Super Eagles coach and that he is capable of turning around the team’s fortunes.

    Amunike played for Barcelona and was a member of the Super Eagles team that won the 1994 African Cup of Nations, making him one of the greatest Nigerian footballers in history during his prime.

    Interestingly, Amunike’s outstanding performances for Zamalek and the national team earned him the title of African Best Footballer that same year.

    Amunike reportedly stated that he prefers to lead the Super Eagles on his own rather than in a supporting role, according to a report on Complete Sports.

    What Amunike said about coaching Nigeria “I’ve never coached the Super Eagles, I’ve only gone twice to assist someone but coaching Super Eagles on my own I have not.

    “But of course Nigeria is my country and the national team we are all part of it and when the opportunity comes and Nigerians feel that we can add something to the national team of course it’s a welcome development.”

    Meanwhile, Jose Peseiro is currently the coach of the Super Eagles and has been in charge since May 2022.

    Amunike speaks on World Cup qualifier

    Earlier, Sports Brief had reported how former Super Eagles star Emmanuel Amunike disclosed that winning the AFCON and Olympics with the Nigerian national team remains the best moments of his career.

    Amunike years back was one of the best wingers in the world considering his speed and ability in scoring goals, which paved the way for him to play for Barcelona.

    The former Zamalek star also played an important role in helping the Nigerian national team win the 1994 African Cup of Nations, netting the winning goal.

  • Check out Cristiano Ronaldo’s new goal celebration after scoring for Portugal

    Check out Cristiano Ronaldo’s new goal celebration after scoring for Portugal

    Cristiano Ronaldo has unveiled a new goal celebration after finding the back of the net for Portugal against Luxembourg on Sunday night.

    The 38-year-old was in a mood after opening the scoring nine minutes into the game for Robert Martinez’s side.

    The Real Madrid and Manchester United legend raced away towards the left corner as he often does before producing his trademark ‘siuuu’ celebration.

    Joao Felix and Bernardo Silva were also on the scoresheet to make it 3-0 for the 2016 European champions before Ronaldo notched his second and Portugal’s fourth early in the second half.

    As the five-time Ballon d’Or winner landed from his spin, he mixed it up with his other celebration, crossing his hands across his chest, a slight variation on the interlocking fingers.

    Martinez praises Ronaldo’s commitment

    A new era started in the Portuguese national team yesterday as new boss Roberto Martinez managed his first game, a 4-0 win over Lichtenstein inspired by Cristiano Ronaldo’s brace.

    As reported earlier, the former Wigan manager quickly spotted a standout attribute in Ronaldo and praised the 38-year-old’s commitment which he said would be a vital experience for the team.

    Winning Euro 2024 is the goal for Martinez, and he has made it clear to Ronaldo that he would demand a lot from him to win the tournament in Germany next year.

    Ronaldo proud to set record Cristiano Ronaldo is feeling the joy of playing football again after a turbulent 2022 in his professional and personal life, Sports Brief earlier reported.

    The 38-year-old had a difficult time off the field, which was not well-acknowledged at Manchester United. This led him to doing an explosive interview with British broadcaster Piers Morgan and subsequently led to his contract termination.

    Ronaldo’s 197 international appearances and 120 international goals for his country are world records, according to Sportskeeda, and he could not have been prouder at holding both.

    He took to his Instagram page, which is the most followed in the world and expressed his joy at attaining a new milestone on the international stage.

  • Premier League: Bukayo Saka, best player at the moment? Hear teammate Oleksandr Zinchenko opinion

    Premier League: Bukayo Saka, best player at the moment? Hear teammate Oleksandr Zinchenko opinion

    Bukayo Saka, an Arsenal teammate, is “one of” the best players in the Premier League right now, according to Oleksandr Zinchenko.

    What happened?

    There are currently a number of shining stars in the English top division, with players like Erling Haaland and Marcus Rashford shining for Manchester rivals City and United, respectively, in 2022–23.

    Saka, 21, has joined that esteemed company after assisting Arsenal in maintaining a title challenge and posting personal-best totals of 13 goals and 10 assists this season. Saka also scored for England in a 2-0 victory over Ukraine in the Euro 2024 qualifying match.

    Zinchenko, who was on the wrong end of that result at Wembley Stadium, has told reporters when asked if Saka is the best player around at the moment: “In the Premier League? I’m not the guy who is going to judge but he is one of them for sure.

    I hope he is on this form for the rest of the season because he is such an important player for Arsenal as we have 10 more finals to go.”

    Saka helped England to get the better of Ukraine when taking their latest step towards the next European Championships, with Zinchenko admitting that friendships had been put on hold for 90 minutes.

    He added: “He is an amazing player, we know that.

    He is on fire at the moment, there are no friends on the pitch and unfortunately he beat me. In these kind of games, big players decide the game.”

    Zinchenko and Saka will be club colleagues again on Saturday when Arsenal – who hold an eight-point lead at the Premier League summit – return to domestic action with a home date against Leeds.

  • Police discussed Utd’s Greenwood’s attitude at training grounds before his arrest in 2022

    Police discussed Utd’s Greenwood’s attitude at training grounds before his arrest in 2022

    Before his arrest in 2022, Mason Greenwood reportedly had his behaviour discussed by Manchester United and the local police forces.

    The 21-year-old was arrested at the end of January of last year after being accused of attempted rape, assault resulting in actual bodily harm, and using coercive or controlling behaviour towards the same woman.

    He hasn’t played for the Red Devils since January 19, 2022, when he was suspended by United while an investigation was conducted.

    It was revealed in February 2023 that the Crown Prosecution Service has discontinued proceedings against Greenwood due to the withdrawal of key witnesses and new evidence coming to light, with the CPS announcing that there was “no longer a realistic prospect of conviction”.

    A source who worked with Greenwood at Old Trafford has told The Athletic that the Premier League club “were protective of him in different ways. He was an asset but they also wanted to help him reach his full potential. He made immature choices, but lots of young players do that, then they grow up a bit.”

    United have rejected approaches from Turkish clubs for Greenwood since seeing criminal proceedings against him dropped, but he remains out of contention for selection at present and concerns regarding his behaviour remain.

    It is alleged that regular absences from the Red Devils’ Carrington base have been unexplainable in the past, while he was dropped from the England squad in September 2020 after being caught – alongside Manchester City star Phil Foden – inviting girls into the Three Lions’ team hotel.

    That was a serious breach of Covid-19 restrictions, but it was not the first time that Greenwood had flouted those rules.

    The Athletic reports that he would head out driving around south west Manchester during lockdown, while also holding parties at a rented Airbnb address in Salford despite a ban on social gatherings.

    No formal action was taken by police, but it is claimed that they did visit United’s training centre to request that the club keep the player on a tighter leash.

    Another source said: “Most athletes don’t know they’re going to make it, but he falls into the category where at 10 years old he knew it was a certainty. These are fewer and farther between than people think. Frank Lampard, John Terry, David Beckham had to work their socks off.

    “Mason had a Rooney-esque, Gazza-esque quality. In 999 out of 1,000 cases footballers are made, but he fits the born category. It is unexplainable why he can do some of the things he does. He can just score goals from impossible situations.”

    Greenwood is now an expectant father, but it remains to be seen whether he will ever grace a football field in England again.

    He is clinging to that hope, with a source adding: “He would run through a brick wall to be back playing for United now.”

  • Robin van Persie believes Arsenal is the next Premier League Champions

    Robin van Persie believes Arsenal is the next Premier League Champions

    Robin van Persie believes his old team, Arsenal, will win the Premier League this year. 
    After an incredible run of play under Mikel Arteta, the Gunners have become strong favourites to win the title.

    With only 10 games remaining, the north Londoners currently hold an eight-point advantage at the top of the standings.

    They appear to be a game away from winning the Premier League for the first time in nearly 20 years, but they will be wary of Man City, a team with a history of success who are currently sitting second on the log with a game remaining.

    Van Persie speaks on Arsenal winning the EPL

    Van Persie, who spent eight years at the Emirates Stadium, has insisted he would be happy to see Arsenal secure the crown.

    The former Dutch forward is not in good books with Arsenal fans after his controversial summer move to rivals Man United in 2012, where he went on to win the Premier League title.

    However, the legendary striker has appeared to suggest that there is no bad blood between him and the Gunners, with the 39-year-old making clear his feelings about his former side’s potential title triumph.

    “They’ve got [had] a couple of difficult games. They got the three points there, so that is what a champion’s team is made of. They’ve been proving that.

    But the last stretch is always the difficult one, so it’ll be interesting to see,” Van Persie told Sky Sports. “But my personal feeling is that they will go for it – that they will win the league. It’s been a while, so I’m happy for them to win it,” he added.

  • Kamala Harris says she’s in Ghana to promote opportunities for economic growth

    Kamala Harris says she’s in Ghana to promote opportunities for economic growth

    Harris anticipates meeting farmers, women, students, and businesspeople while in Ghana. The Cape Coast Castle will also be on her itinerary.

    After arriving in Ghana on Sunday (26 March) to start her three-nation tour of the continent, Vice President of the United States of America Kamala Harris stated that her mission in the continent is to promote economic growth and opportunities.

    The 49th vice president of the United States will visit Ghana, where he will meet with farmers, businesspeople, students, and women. In the Central Region, slaves were housed at the Cape Coast Castle, which will also be visited by the visitor.

    “In particular on this trip, I intend to do work that will focus on increasing investment here on the continent, and facilitating economic growth and opportunity, specifically in the areas of economic empowerment of women and girls, empowerment of youth entrepreneurship, digital inclusion and to support the work that must be done to increase food security, including adaptation to the effect of economic crisis,” Harris said at the Kotoka International Airport.

    She was welcomed at the airport by Vice-President Mahamudu Bawumia, who led the government delegation including foreign minister Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey.

    Also at the airport to welcome Harris and her husband Douglas Emhoff was the US ambassador to Ghana Virginia Palmer and a host of school children carrying miniature flags of Ghana.

    She said her visit is to strengthen the economic relations between the US and Ghana.

    “We are looking forward to this trip as a further statement of the long and enduring and very important relationship and friendship between the people of the United States and those who live on the continent of Africa,” Harris said.

    “I am very excited about the future of Africa. I am very excited about the impact of the future of Africa on the rest of the world including the United States of America. When I look at what is happening on this continent and the fact that the median age is 19 years old, and what that tells us about the growth of opportunities, of innovations, of possibilities, I see in all of that great opportunities and not only for the people of this continent but the people of the world,” she added.

    She said: “I am here to address some of the issues that relate to the partnership between this continent, its people and the people of the United States and to reinforce the work that we will continue to do together be that on addressing the climate crisis, to supply chain, to our work together on international rules and nuance.

    Harris is scheduled to leave Ghana on March 29 to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania before ending the tour in Lusaka, Zambia on 2 April.

  • Broadhead sobs after Wales’ first-ever goal

    Broadhead sobs after Wales’ first-ever goal

    Rob Page reported that Nathan Broadhead, a hero for Wales who scored a last-second equaliser against Croatia, was in tears.

    Andrej Kramaric gave the World Cup semi-finalists a lead in Split in the 28th minute, sending Wales into the first round of Euro 2024 qualifying with a loss.

    After Chris Mepham had flicked on Connor Roberts’ long throw, Ipswich striker Broadhead, who had just earned his first cap, equalised in the third minute of stoppage time to preserve a 1-1 draw for Wales.

    Page said: “I’m really pleased for him. He’s not going to like me saying this, but it’s an emotional game and he was in tears at the end with the supporters.

    “It means the world to him. I’ve worked with Nathan in the Under-21s in Toulon six or seven years ago.

    “I’ve watched his development and he’s earned the right to be part of the squad now. I’ve known all about him before this camp and we’ve been itching to get him involved.”

    Nathan Broadhead's equaliser prompted jubilant scenes for the travelling Welsh support
    Nathan Broadhead’s equaliser prompted jubilant scenes for the travelling Welsh support

    Wales had not managed a single shot on target until Broadhead’s late intervention at the far post.

    But, after being outplayed for the entire first half, they appeared to be building momentum before Page made a contentious triple substitution.

    Skipper Aaron Ramsey, Daniel James — who had just volleyed wide from close range — and Harry Wilson were all withdrawn with Broadhead among the replacements.

    Page admitted that Tuesday’s must-win home game against Latvia was in his thoughts at that point.

    He said: “We’d planned it [the subs] last week. The four forwards we had on the pitch are not playing at club level.

    “We had a target for the points we wanted to get, it’s all about the home game for us.

    “That was the winnable game and we always knew that on the hour we were going to make those substitutions.

    “It’s beneficial to keep them fresh now for Tuesday, but when you get the equaliser like we did late on in the game it feels like a win.

    “I think the lads deserved it for the effort they put in, they put a right shift in.

    “We knew we were going to have to suffer without the ball and it came true. They’re a very good team and we had to be disciplined in our shape.

    “I knew that, as the game went on, we’d create chances. We thought DJ’s might be the one, but Nathan popped up at the end and took his chance well.”

  • Elanga’s limited playing time in Man Utd is ‘frustrating’ him

    Elanga’s limited playing time in Man Utd is ‘frustrating’ him

    Anthony Elanga has lashed out at Manchester United for not giving him enough playing time, and he has suggested he should have joined Barcelona in January.

    For the Red Devils this season, the Sweden winger has only made seven starts, but he has been used 17 times as a substitute.

    During the previous transfer window, Elanga was rumoured to be interested in moving to teams like LaLiga leaders Barca and Premier League underachievers Everton, but a deal never materialised.

    In response to a question about a potential move to Camp Nou at the beginning of the year, he told the Swedish newspaper Aftonbladet: “That was in January, I can’t focus on that now.

    “The best thing I can do is focus on the rest of the season and then I will get to talk to the club.

    “I love the club, but it’s important for me to play. I’m still young. We have spoken to the club and they know what is required and I know what is required.”

    The 20-year-old hopes United boss Erik ten Hag gives him more opportunities and is determined to take his chances when they come along.

    He added: “It is frustrating. You want to play, it’s important. But whether you play or not, it’s up to the coach not me. I have spoken to Erik [ten Hag] and it is private between the two of us. I know what he wants me to do and I just keep training hard.

    “When the opportunity comes, I just have to be ready to take it. We have a lot of conversations, not only about [his lack of opportunities] but also what is happening around. That’s the good thing about the club, we talk a lot and they help me a lot.”

  • Argentina names training facility after Messi

    Argentina names training facility after Messi

    Argentina has named their training facility after their talismanic captain, Lionel Messi, in recognition of his World Cup heroics.

    Argentina’s national team setup is housed in Casa de Ezeiza in Buenos Aires, but it will now be known as Lionel Andres Messi.

    The Argentine Football Association’s (AFA) president, Chiqui Tapia, tweeted on Saturday to confirm the information.

    “I want to thank all the managers, players and employees of @afa for having been with us.”

    Messi dragged Argentina to glory in Qatar last year, emulating the success of the late Diego Maradona as La Albiceleste claimed their third world title, and first since 1986.

    “This recognition is one of the nicest I’ve ever received,” Messi posted on Instagram. “A great honour, thank you very much!!!”

    Messi scored the 800th goal of his stellar career in Argentina’s 2-0 friendly win over Panama on Thursday. The 35-year-old’s next goal on the international stage will be his 100th for his country.

  • GFA confirms that Andre Ayew, Djiku, and two other players are out of the Angola match

    GFA confirms that Andre Ayew, Djiku, and two other players are out of the Angola match

    After suffering a knee injury on Thursday, Ghana captain Andre Ayew will not play in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Angola.

    The results of the MRI scan required Ayew to return to his club for additional treatment, which is why he slipped on his way to the dressing room and injured his knee.

    The 33-year-old will not be travelling to Luanda with the team for the Monday return leg.

    Other players who didn’t make the trip include Alexander Djiku, Mohammed Salisu and Denis Odoi. The trio were left out of the travelling party due to injuries. The Ghana Football Association wishes them a speedy recovery.

    The Black Stars will depart Accra on Saturday afternoon for Luanda ahead of the match on Monday, March 27, 2023.

  • Jose Ramirez defeats Richard Commey in a technical knockout

    Jose Ramirez defeats Richard Commey in a technical knockout

    On Saturday night at the Save Mart Arena in Fresno, California, in a WBC Junior Welterweight eliminator, Mexico’s Jose Ramirez defeated Ghanaian boxer Richard Commey via 11th-round TKO.

    Ramirez dominated in the fight’s latter rounds, focusing on Commey’s body. In the fight’s decisive round, the Mexican scored two knockdowns, the second of which resulted in a full ten count after the Ghanaian took a knee.

    Commey lost, dropping to 30-5-1 and going winless in his last three starts (27KOs).

    In February 2021, he defeated Jackson Marinez in the sixth round for his final triumph.

    Ramirez had plenty to prove as the main event came after he twice turned down a shot to fight for his old WBC junior welterweight title including a rightly criticized withdrawal from an ordered fight with defending champ Regis Prograis.

    The Fight

    Commey made it easy for Ramirez, as he walked right in and was willing to trade. Ramirez repeatedly made him pay with right hands upstairs. A left hook snapped back the head of Commey which set up a rally along the ropes.

    Commey managed a straight right hand that caught Ramirez on the chin in an otherwise lopsided round.

    Ramirez continued with his persistent attack throughout round two. Commey was still able to sneak in a right hand but every punch he threw—even the ones that landed—left him open for a relentless body attack dished out by Ramirez who was determined to deliver a knockout finish.

    Commey was determined to crash home a game-changing right hand.

    The former IBF lightweight titlist used his shoulder to partially deflect Ramirez’s incoming shots before letting go with overhand rights. Ramirez was unbothered by the approach and charged forward to pin the visiting boxer along the ropes.

    A subtle adjustment by Commey briefly slowed the pace in round four.

    Commey managed to smother Ramirez’s punches which allowed him to fire off right hands on the inside. This time, Ramirez took the bait as he walked into a right hand and left hook.

    Commey ripped a left hook downstairs, only for Ramirez to drive him to the ropes and connect with a trio of hooks downstairs.

    Ramirez fed off the cheers from the crowd as he rediscovered a consistent home for his right hand in round five.

    Commey refused to relent, riding out a Ramirez right before he responded with a brief flurry of body punches.

    Both boxers exchanged jabs in round six.

    Commey threw his while he fought in reverse, cognizant of getting pinned against the ropes. Ramirez missed with a power shot along the ropes, as Commey took the action to the center of the ring.

    Ramirez adjusted his attack and was able to connect with right uppercuts.  

    Action slowed in round seven, understandably slow after a fiercely fought first half of the fight. Ramirez saved his best moments for the end of the round.

    The pace slightly picked up in round eight, which saw Commey fight behind his long jab and Ramirez throw in spurts. Neither landed anything of consequence until the end of the round when Ramirez scored with a combination.  

    Ramirez dramatically and permanently changed the course of the fight in round eleven. A right hand by Ramirez left Commey unsteady before tumbling to the canvas.

    Referee Jack Reiss issued the standard eight count and assessed the fallen boxer before he allowed the action to continue.

    Commey was still unable to fully gather his faculties, as he clinched Ramirez before the two fell to the canvas.

    Reiss allowed additional time to tick away as he ensured that both boxers were okay before he allowed for the fight to move forward.

    Ramirez dodged a right hand by Commey and ripped a left hook to the body. Commey was forced to a knee, where he took the full ten count.

  • Morris scores four goals for Seattle, and Crew hits Atlanta for six

    Morris scores four goals for Seattle, and Crew hits Atlanta for six

    With a crushing 4-0 victory over Real Salt Lake on Saturday, sensational St.Louis City maintained their unblemished start to their inaugural Major League Soccer season, which set a new record.

    The Seattle Sounders defeated Sporting Kansas City 4-1 behind all four goals from Jordan Morris, while the Columbus Crew destroyed an undermanned Atlanta United 6-1.

    Last week, expansion team St. Louis became the first new team to win its first four games. This week, they continued that trend with yet another outstanding performance.

    With a left-footed finish in the 47th minute, Nicholas Gioacchini gave St. Louis the lead. Brazilian Joao Klauss then doubled the advantage after Pablo Ruiz made a careless giveaway.

    Klauss then fired in his fourth goal of the season with a first-time drive from the edge of the box before Swedish winger Rasmus Alm finished off a flowing attack to make it 4-0.

    MLS’s decision to play through the international break weakened several teams but Morris, not called up for the United States’ CONCACAF Nations League games, used the opportunity to fire a strong reminder of his quality.

    After Kansas City had taken a fifth minute lead through William Agada, Morris slid in a low cross from Leo Chu to bring Seattle level in the 23rd minute.

    Chu was the provider again, nine minutes after the interval, slipping Morris in and the striker provided a clinical finish.

    Sporting had defender Ben Sweat sent off for a second bookable offence in the 63rd minute and within six minutes the game was put beyond them.

    Morris completed his hat-trick, turning in a Nicolas Lodeiro cross from close range and then completed the rout with a header from another pinpoint Chu cross.

    Atlanta United went into Saturday’s game at Columbus unbeaten and on a high after last week’s 5-1 mauling of Portland.

    But they were without seven first-team players, away on international duty, including Argentine World Cup winner Thiago Almada.

    The Crew were 1-0 up at the break but ran away with the game in the second half with forward Christian Ramirez scoring twice.

    Free Fall

    The Chicago Fire handed Inter Miami their third straight loss with Phil Neville’s side in free fall after winning their opening two games.

    The Fire did it the hard way though, after going 2-0 up through goals from Chris Mueller and Carlos Teran.

    Miami fought back through a well-taken Franco Negri effort and a Nicolas Stefanelli header and the Florida side looked to have earned a point until a dramatic stoppage time winner for the Fire.

    Veteran striker Kei Kamara, drilled home after being put in by Brian Gutierrez, finding the target for his 10th club in MLS.

    Last season’s runners-up, the Philadelphia Union continued their poor start with a 2-1 home defeat to Orlando City. It was Philly’s second straight loss and their third in their opening five games, after goals inside the opening 10 minutes from Orlando’s Martin Ojeda and Ivan Angulo.

    Although Andres Perea pulled a goal back in the 24th, Union head coach Jim Curtin was left deflated by his team’s performance. “We let ourselves down as a team by conceding two goals early. That’s unacceptable for us, especially in this building,” said Curtin, whose side won the Eastern Conference last year.

    “I know the expectations for the group at the start of the season have been very, very high and maybe we’re all trying to be perfect rather than just doing our job,” he said.

  • Arsenal supporters upset at Man City Ace Rodri’s dreadful tackle that eliminated Martin Odegaard

    Arsenal supporters upset at Man City Ace Rodri’s dreadful tackle that eliminated Martin Odegaard

    A part of Arsenal supporters have criticised Man City star Rodri for a terrible tackle he made on Marting Odegaard during a Euro match between Spain and Norway.

    On Saturday, March 25, the two Premier League players were competing for their respective teams during the international break.

    Odegaard, according to Metro UK, had a great chance to start the scoring in the opening minutes of the game after he received a pull-back and fired a left-footed shot.

    The Arsenal captain was taken out by Rodri’s late tackle after his shot was blocked before it could reach the goal.

    Footage from the incident showed Odegaard immediately rolling around in agony, clutching his ankle before getting up to his knees and appealing to the referee to give a penalty.

    The referee, who was not referred to the monitor by VAR, opted against awarding a spot-kick as Spain went on to take a lead moments later via Dani Olmo.

    Arsenal fans fume at Rodri Rodri’s awkward challenge on Odegaard did not go down well with Arsenal fans, who quickly hit out at the Man City star for ‘attempting to kill’ the Norwegian midfielder. One wrote: “Absolutely horrible foul from Rodri on Odegaard.

    Incredibly, no penalty given! Rodri under Pep’s orders to injure our captain?”

    A second noted: “Odegaard denied a clear penalty. Rodri trying to end Arsenal’s title run with a nasty red card challenge. Fuming.”

    Another posted: “Rodri’s on a mission to hospitalise that Kevin De Bruyne wannabe.” A fourth raged: “Was Rodri trying to end Odegaard’s season with that tackle?”

  • Ghana poised to qualify for AFCON 2023, but Angola will be a stern test

    Ghana poised to qualify for AFCON 2023, but Angola will be a stern test

    On March 27, 2023, Angola and Ghana will play a challenging match as both teams try to advance to the Africa Cup of Nations competition.

    At the Baba Yara Stadium, the Black Stars narrowly defeated the Palancas Negras to move one step closer to AFCON qualification.

    With a close victory over Angola on Thursday, Ghana opened its 2023 account after waiting too long to do so. The Black Stars had not triumphed since losing to Uruguay in the 2022 World Cup final in December.

    Under new coach Chris Hughton, the Black Stars were able to resume winning ways thanks to Antoine Semenyo’s dramatic goal.

    Ghana sit top of Group E with seven points after three games, three points clear off second-place Angola while Central African Republic sit third with four points.

    The Black Stars will secure qualification to the continental showpiece to be hosted by Ivory Coast if they beat Angola in Luanda.

    But the four-time African Champions faces a daunting task against Angola and will have to play above themselves if they are to secure early qualification at away.

    Meanwhile, Ghana will miss the services of captain Andre Ayew, Mohammed Salisu, Alexander Djiku and Denis Odoi due to injuries.

  • Joselu enjoys a memorable Spain debut

    Joselu enjoys a memorable Spain debut

    After helping Spain defeat Norway 3-0 in Malaga on Saturday, Joselu was in a state of dreamland after scoring twice on his country’s debut.

    In his first match as head coach after succeeding Luis Enrique, Luis de la Fuente selected a team that was somewhat unfamiliar for their first two Euro 2024 qualifiers.

    Many believed Joselu’s call-up was overdue because he had double digit LaLiga goal totals in each of the previous three seasons.

    When he entered the game at La Rosaleda in the second half, Spain was struggling to win 1-0 and he scored twice to end the match.

    As such, he became the oldest debutant to score for Spain since September 2006, two days before his 33rd birthday, and he was left in disbelief.

    “The truth is that I still don’t believe it,” he told TVE. “This is everything a player can have and in the end, the daily work has had its reward.

    “I think I would especially like to thank my wife and my children, and my mother, who have come here today.

    “The truth is that I am not believing it.”

    Joselu was also Spain’s oldest debutant since 2006, with De la Fuente opting to pick a few somewhat unfashionable options who were largely neglected by his predecessor.

    The striker subsequently paid tribute to De la Fuente for giving him the opportunity.

    “I thank him for everything, being here, trusting me, being on the first list,” he said.

    “I think I have responded more than enough.

    “Age doesn’t matter to me because I feel like a kid, I feel like an 18-year-old kid. I want to enjoy this; I want to hug my family because today is an incredible day.”

    Joselu may feel he has done enough to earn a maiden start next time out, when Spain are set to face Scotland at Hampden Park on Tuesday.

    “Knowing the players and giving them confidence is our job, but all the credit belongs to him,” De la Fuente said of Joselu. 

    “We have recognised the great work he does every day at his club and I am happy for him and for everyone else.”

  • Ken Agyapong slams NPP over import ban, says they received 240 used cars from him in 2016 campaign

    Ken Agyapong slams NPP over import ban, says they received 240 used cars from him in 2016 campaign

    Kennedy Agyapong, a presidential candidate for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has repeatedly discussed the financial contributions he has made to the party since its founding.

    Additionally, he has contributed money to recent events, including more than 2.75 million Ghana cedis for the April 2022 local elections (10,000 cedis to each constituency).

    Later in December, as his widow’s mite contribution to Christmas, he once more gave the party 9,000 bags of rice and other supplies.

    He has disclosed a logistical donation made in 2016 as the party prepared for elections.

    “Just this 2016, I bought 240 used pick-ups for NPP campaigns. Today, you are in power and you are telling Ghanaians not to buy used (cars)… what is the purchasing power of every Ghanaian in the country. How many people can afford new cars?” he asked during a public function.

    The crux of his concern with used cars being the decision of government to ban the importation of such vehicles.

    Ken Agyapong insists that the decision by the government is totally wrong and was not well thought off.

    “You cannot bring a year to five-year-old cars because VW is going to produce brand new cars in Ghana, because Nissan is going to produce brand new cars in Ghana.

    “The direct tax (we are losing) through customs is more than anything in the country. Look at the number of people who are going to lose their jobs. How many jobs are these companies going to create? We didn’t sit down to analyse all these things, we just come out with policies, don’t bring used cars,” he said.

    Agyapong is currently Member of Parliament for Assin Central, a seat he is set t relinquish at the expiration of his current term.

    He is considered a frontrunner in the New Patriotic Party’s presidential flagbearership race along with Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia and former Trade and Industry Minister, Alan Kyerematen.

  • Madrid’s Carlo Ancelotti says there are better players than Messi

    Madrid’s Carlo Ancelotti says there are better players than Messi

    Carlo Ancelotti, manager of Real Madrid, has insisted that Lionel Messi is not the greatest footballer in history.

    On Thursday, Messi scored the 800th goal of his professional career against Panama, bringing him one goal shy of 100 for the national team.

    The Argentine sensation became the second-most prolific goal-scorer in history, trailing only Cristiano Ronaldo by 30 goals.

    Following Argentina’s victory in the Qatar 2022 FIFA World Cup in December, many football fans and pundits dubbed him “the greatest of all time.”

    But the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner is yet to convince the Italian tactician, who has named three football greats who are ahead of Messi. “Messi the best in history? He’s a great player but I can’t say who’s been the best,” Ancelotti was quoted as saying via GOAL. “There have been so many wonderful players… Maradona, Di Stéfano, Cruyff.. I don’t know.”

    Van Gaal picks Ronaldo over Messi Louis van Gaal is among a number of high-ranking members of the football fraternity who have now delved into the Cristiano Ronaldo vs Lionel Messi debate.

    Speaking on the legendary duo, the former Netherlands coach heaped praises on the two iconic superstars as the best players of their era. Van Gaal, 71, then disclosed his preference for the Portuguese legend in the GOAT debate.

    “And the big question, Messi or Cristiano? The best players of this period are Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

    Choosing between them is difficult,” Van Gaal told Onda Cero, via Sportskeeda.

    Gary Cahill speaks on GOAT debate

    Elsewhere, former Chelsea defender Gary Cahill has weighed in on the Ronaldo versus Messi debate but struggled to choose the better player.

    Cahill’s indecision looks quite honest as the two are close first and second in most football metrics and hard to separate.

    The two are defying age and going strong.

    Both scored freekicks for their countries, Argentina and Portugal, in their last international games against Panama and Liechtenstein.

    Heinze snubs Messi in GOAT debate

    Sports Brief earlier reported that Gabriel Heinze snubbed Messi in the GOAT debate and instead went for Portugal international Cristiano Ronaldo.

    The former Argentina international played with Ronaldo for three years at Manchester United and with Messi in the national team but ignored his compatriot.

    The 42-year-old said Ronaldo could not get better as he is already next to God in his abilities.

  • Pedri confirms his stay at Barcelona for many more years but not ruling out Premier League move

    Pedri intends to stay at Barcelona for “many years to come,” but is not ruling out a move to the Premier League.

    Since breaking into Barca’s first team, the 20-year-old has been a revelation, establishing himself as a key player for the LaLiga leaders.

    Pedri won FIFA’s Golden Boy award for the best young player in Europe in 2021 and quickly forced his way into the Spain team.

    The young maestro is under contract with the Blaugrana until 2026 and has no plans to leave for the time being, though he has hinted that he may work abroad in the future.

    When asked about the possibility of a switch to England, he is quoted as saying by Marca: “At the moment, no. I’m at Barca and hopefully I’ll stay here for many more years.

    “I love LaLiga, but nothing should ever be ruled out.”

    Pedri will miss Spain’s Euro 2024 qualifiers against Norway and Scotland due to a hamstring injury, but is relishing a new era for the national team under Luis de la Fuente.

    Having played under De la Fuente at Under-21 level and in the Tokyo Olympics, Pedri believes the new Spain head coach will be a success.

    Pedri said: “He is a person who goes straight ahead, he likes to work on the things he believes in and I think we will do well.

    “All the coaches who come try to have the ball and play, especially because of the style of footballers we have, and I think it will not change a lot.”

  • Modric’s wish is to stay at Real Madrid amid rumours of being Ronaldo’s Al Nassr’s target

    Modric’s wish is to stay at Real Madrid amid rumours of being Ronaldo’s Al Nassr’s target

    Luka Modric has reaffirmed his commitment to Real Madrid, despite reports that he is being pursued by Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr.

    The 37-year-old is in his 11th season at Real Madrid, where he has won 22 trophies, but his contract expires at the end of the season.

    He has been mentioned as a possible target for Al Nassr, who signed Cristiano Ronaldo on a free transfer from Manchester United in December.

    However, when questioned about his future while on international duty with Croatia on Friday, a frustrated Modric stated that his top priority is to reach new terms with Real Madrid.

    “My wish is known: to stay at Real Madrid,” he said at a pre-match press conference ahead of Saturday’s meeting with Wales. “I believe and hope that it comes true. 

    “The rest of what’s said is just assumptions and rumours. I repeat the same thing for the hundredth time: I hope and believe that I will stay at Real Madrid.”

    Modric, who has previously said he wants to feel as though he has deserved a new deal, also rubbished claims Madrid have asked him to retire from Croatia duty.

    “Short and clear – no,” Modric said when that suggestion was put to him.

    The former Zagreb and Tottenham midfielder is in line to earn his 163rd cap for Croatia when they face Wales in their opening Euro 2024 qualifier in Split.

    Having elected not to retire following Croatia’s World Cup semi-final defeat to France, Modric will overtake Drazen Ladic as his country’s oldest ever player.

    “I didn’t know that before the conference and I don’t know if it’s good or bad!” Modric said. “I feel great with the national team and I’m glad to be here. I feel happy when I’m here.

    “We are all focusing on the Wales game. Hopefully we can get a positive result and take that confidence to Turkey.

    “The most important thing is that we win tomorrow. We know we are the favourites and are expected to win, but football is unpredictable and you need to be at 100 per cent.”

  • WSL star Shaw earns Haaland comparison after scoring 26 in 23 games for man City this season

    WSL star Shaw earns Haaland comparison after scoring 26 in 23 games for man City this season

    Khadija ‘Bunny’ Shaw’s goal-scoring exploits have already drawn comparisons to Erling Haaland, and a Manchester City teammate believes she can be the best player in the world.

    Jamaican striker Shaw has 26 goals in 23 games for City this season in all competitions, including 15 in 15 in the Women’s Super League.

    The 26-year-old has scored once every 86 minutes in the Premier League, which is not quite on par with men’s star Haaland, who has scored once every 76 minutes, but close enough for observers to notice the similarities.

    City manager Gareth Taylor did not shy away from comparisons between the “pretty remarkable” pair last week, explaining how both are “so mentally strong”.

    It is that quality that might yet make Shaw the world’s best, with England defender Alex Greenwood backing her City colleague.

    “I’m not surprised she’s doing what she is doing, and she still has so many levels to go to, which is quite frightening to be honest,” Greenwood told BBC Sport.

    “I think she can be the best in the world if she wants to be. She has all the attributes to be the best in the world.

    “I know how hard she works in training. It’s the reason she’s flourishing right now.

    “She’s been really strong for us, so we just need to keep feeding her, keep giving her the ball, and the rest she’ll take care of.”

  • Pulisic priding himself in USMNT’s goal record in history

    Pulisic priding himself in USMNT’s goal record in history

    Christian Pulisic believes the United States can find comfort from breaking the Grenada away goal record.

    It was the first time they had scored seven goals in a match outside the United States when they won 7-1 on Friday in the CONCACAF Nations League.

    Ricardo Pepi and Weston McKennie each scored twice in the USA’s first competitive match since the World Cup.

    Chelsea’s Christian Pulisic also scored and assisted on four other goals.

    “We came out really strong with a lot of energy and just kind of put with them right away,” Pulisic said, per ESPN.

    “So I think they were kind of surprised by that. Took our goals well and just a great all-around performance. Definitely gives us confidence.”

    Pulisic added in his post-game press conference: “We love scoring goals and that’s what we do. So obviously good scoreline, positive result for the team. We definitely enjoyed ourselves out there.”

    The game was also the first time USA played a competitive match without using a single MLS player since the league began in 1996. 

    Interim coach Anthony Hudson was impressed by what he saw from his team, but urged them to finish the job as they bid to reach the Nations League final four.

    USA are top of their group ahead of hosting El Salvador on Monday at Exploria Stadium in Florida.

    Hudson said: “With a [good] performance and a result like this, you don’t want to get carried away.

    “The importance for us is just to make sure that we do all the right things between now and the next game and we finish the job off. 

    “But the actual performance, I thought it was the result of just a really, really good week.”

  • Team’s performance was way below avarage – Netherland’s Koeman expresses discontent after 0-4 loss to France

    Team’s performance was way below avarage – Netherland’s Koeman expresses discontent after 0-4 loss to France

    Ronald Koeman expected more from his Netherlands team after they were beaten 4-0 by France in his first game back as head coach.

    Koeman took over for Louis van Gaal, and he will have been as surprised as anyone to see his team fall behind 2-0 after only eight minutes at the Stade de France, and 3-0 after 21 minutes.

    Speaking to NOS Sport after their humiliating defeat in their Euro 2024 qualifying opener, Koeman admitted he had not expected such a disparity, despite his team finishing with 59% possession and just one fewer shot than the hosts (12-11).

    “I did not take into account that the difference would be so great,” he said. “I expected more from everyone. The team performance was below average.

    “We lost the ball 20 metres from our own goal. That is a place where you should never lose the ball. And then France is, of course, a very good team that is lurking and immediately benefits.”

    Antoine Griezmann, Dayot Upamecano and new France captain Kylian Mbappe gave Les Bleus an early cushion, before Mbappe struck again two minutes from time after intercepting a pass from Memphis Depay, who later had a penalty saved by Mike Maignan.

    “Memphis lost the ball, but Mbappe of course finishes it off great afterwards. So it was not just us. It was also the class of France,” Koeman conceded.

    The Netherlands were without some key players including Matthijs de Ligt, Cody Gakpo and Sven Botman with viral infections, but Koeman was in no mood for excuses.

    “Of course the preparation has not been ideal. That has left its mark,” he said. “But there have been just too many moments today when we failed.

    “We now know where we stand and have learned from this. It can therefore also turn out positively. We are going to learn and improve, including us as technical staff.”

    Dutch captain Virgil van Dijk added: “We didn’t get there, lost the duels and lost the ball too often. The second goal was a set piece, but the other goals came because we handed them the ball. France has so much quality, they immediately punish that.

    “We will analyse the defeat and take a good look at what we can do better, but it is clear we are very disappointed.”

    The Netherlands host Gibraltar in their second Group B game on Monday.

  • Thomas Tuchel targets Chelsea’s highly regarded Anthony Barry to join his coaching staff at Bayern

    Thomas Tuchel targets Chelsea’s highly regarded Anthony Barry to join his coaching staff at Bayern

    Thomas Tuchel is set to start making a difference at Bayern Munich by targeting his former club. Tuchel was named the new head coach of Bayern Munich on March 24th, following the dismissal of Julian Nagelsmann.

    Tuchel’s first job since being fired by Chelsea in September of last year, with the manager now set to oversee the remainder of the season and the next two years.

    Bayern is currently involved in a three-way Bundesliga battle as well as a Champions League quarterfinal clash with Manchester City.

    According to reports, Tuchel is planning to hire Chelsea’s highly regarded Anthony Barry as a member of his coaching staff.

    Barry was signed by Frank Lampard and stayed when the Chelsea legend was fired in 2021.

    The 36-year-old then remained to help Graham Potter when he took over from Tuchel last year. As the Telegraph reports, Chelsea are preparing to convince Barry not to move to Munich.

    Kovacic and Mendy deals

    Apart from Barry, Football London, via Calciomercato, additionally adds that Tuchel could prompt the Bavarians to move for Mateo Kovacic and Edouard Mendy in the summer.

    Both players’ futures at Chelsea remain uncertain amid the abrasive shake-up undertaken by Todd Boehly.

    Kovacic and Mendy were among the most trusted lieutenants of Tuchel during his reign at Stamford Bridge.

    Tuchel’s first assignment after the international break will be a reunion against his other former side Borussia Dortmund in the Der Klassiker. Dortmund currently lead Bayern by a point.

    Why Chelsea sacked Tuchel

    Previously, it was reported that it has been close to six months since Thomas Tuchel was sacked by Chelsea.

    It was a decision not many fans and pundits agreed with, as the new owners decided to bring in now-embattled Graham Potter as his replacement.

    At the time of his sacking, the Blues weren’t performing well, but co-owner, Todd Boehly revealed the German wasn’t sacked entirely because of on-pitch results and rather because the club was being steered in a new direction – one which Tuchel was not seen as the right person to do.

  • Antoine’s disappointment over his captaincy replacement for Mbappe lasted two minutes – Deschamps

    Antoine’s disappointment over his captaincy replacement for Mbappe lasted two minutes – Deschamps

    Didier Deschamps claims that Antoine Griezmann’s disappointment at being passed over for France captain in favour of Kylian Mbappe “lasted two minutes.”

    It took less than two minutes for Mbappe to assist Griezmann on France’s way to a 4-0 win over the Netherlands at the Stade de France on Friday, giving the French a strong start to their Euro 2024 qualifying campaign.

    Deschamps named Mbappe as his new captain ahead of Griezmann, who also scored twice after Dayot Upamecano found the net, but said in a post-match press conference that there are no issues between the two.

    “Fortunately, I don’t know what is said and written. The two get along well, they work well and they have the same objective of seeing the French team perform well,” he said. 

    “Antoine’s disappointment lasted two minutes. There is not the slightest problem, like the whole group. Everyone gave off positive vibes.”

    Mbappe completed the scoring in the 88th minute, though the Netherlands won a penalty in stoppage time, only for Mike Maignan to save from Memphis Depay.

    While Mbappe replaced Hugo Lloris as captain after his retirement, Maignan was playing his first game since being confirmed as Lloris’ replacement as France’s new first-choice goalkeeper, and Deschamps was in no doubt about the decision.

    “It’s Mike. I didn’t have to ask myself the question,” he said. “He was injured but whether it was his qualities as a goalkeeper or his mentality… total confidence. It went very well for him. Mike has everything to take over [from Lloris].”

    France had a 3-0 lead after just 21 minutes, having not led so early in a game since December 1953 when they beat Luxembourg 8-0, and had a 2-0 lead by the 10th minute.

    “I don’t know [if it was a perfect evening], but [it was] a very nice evening,” Deschamps said. “The start was very good, efficient… We managed in the second half while continuing to be dangerous. That Mike stopped this penalty at the end ended the evening well.”

    Deschamps also said there could be changes for Monday’s second Group B game away at the Republic of Ireland, adding: “It will be another fight for us to fight.”

  • AC Milan’s Zlatan Ibrahimovic endorses Antonio Conte amid Tottenham’s ties to Julian Nagelsmann

    AC Milan’s Zlatan Ibrahimovic endorses Antonio Conte amid Tottenham’s ties to Julian Nagelsmann

    After Zlatan Ibrahimovic jumped to Antonio Conte’s defence, he received unexpected support. Conte is currently under fire, with his job at Tottenham possibly on the line after making explosive comments last weekend.

    After Spurs blew a 3-1 lead to draw 3-3 with Southampton, the Italian lashed out at the players and club CEO Daniel Levy.

    Spurs are expected to crack the whip on the former Chelsea manager in the near future.

    While many would agree that Conte’s comments were necessary, others would argue that publicly criticising his club was inappropriate.

    Sports Brief has previously documented how Conte’s misery in North London might be his own doing.

    Ibrahimovic backs Conte As the discussion rages on, Ibrahimovic has thrown his weight behind the 53-year-old.

    The bullish Swedish striker maintained that people ought to speak their minds without caring about the possible repercussions.

    “Every person works in his own way. I believe in being yourself, but sometimes you pay for it because it’s not what people want to hear,” as quoted by Sky Sports.

    Nagelsmann to replace Conte?

    Conte’s contract runs until the end of the season and it is now highly unlikely that he will renew. Sports Brief reported that Tottenham Hotspur just might have been offered a superb chance to land a top manager after Julian Nagelsmann’s departure from Bayern Munich.

    Despite guiding Bayern to the Champions League quarter-finals, the Bavarians coach has put the team in unfamiliar territory in the league, as they find themselves in a three-way battle for the Bundesliga title with Borussia Dortmund and surprise packages, Union Berlin.

    The youthful coach could be exactly what the doctor ordered for Spurs, as he has a reputation for bringing the very best out of fairly young players.

    Notably, Nagelsmann’s RB Leipzig thrashed Tottenham 4-0 as the German became the youngest manager to win a Champions League knockout tie back in 2019.

  • NDC MPs who supported ministerial approval must be removed – Gbande

    NDC MPs who supported ministerial approval must be removed – Gbande

    Deputy General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress, Mustapha Gbande , says the Minority MPs who voted in favour of the ministerial nominees must be dealt with.

    After hours of deliberation, Parliament approved the nominations of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-new Addo’s ministers.

    After the exercise was suspended, the Minority caucus in Parliament insisted on voting on President Nana Akufo-Addo’s ministerial nominees that day

    The NDC has asked all of its members not to vote in favour of the nominees.

    But after a secret vote, all the nominees were approved despite the absence of three MPs from the majority side in Parliament.

    The outcome of Thursday’s vote indicates several members of the Minority voted for the approval of the ministerial nominees.

    In a Facebook post, the Deputy General Secretary of the NDC Mustapha Gbande said “there is a need to launch an intense investigation to get names of those who voted against the minority decision. Such MPs must be taken out of Parliament.”

    The approval implies that Adansi Asokwa MP, K.T Hammond is now the Minister of Trade and Industry with the Member of Parliament for Nhyiaeso, Dr. Stephen Amoah serving as his deputy.

    The Member of Parliament for Abetifi, Bryan Acheampong is also the substantive Minister for Food and Agriculture while Stephen Asamoah Boateng is the Minister for Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs.

    Mr Osei Bonsu Amoah, MP for Akuapem South, who was a Deputy Minister of Local Government, Decentralisation and Rural Development, is now a Minister of State at the Ministry of Local Government, Decentralisation and Rural Development.

    Dr Mohammed Amin Adam, the MP for Karaga, and the immediate-past Deputy Minister of Energy is now a Minister of State at the Ministry of Finance.

  • TikTok ban: Five takeaways from CEO Shou Zi Chew’s Congress showdown

    TikTok ban: Five takeaways from CEO Shou Zi Chew’s Congress showdown

    Bruising, damaging, and unrelenting. TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew was grilled for four and a half hours on Thursday during a congressional hearing in the United States.

    Some people can run marathons faster than that, according to one congressman.

    Mr Chew will undoubtedly be exhausted after a gruelling day of testifying. Many tech executives have testified before Congress, and they are not always treated favourably.

    The relentless, never-ending line of vicious questioning, however, distinguished this hearing.

    Who is TikTok chief Shou Zi Chew?
    How a TikTok ban would – or wouldn’t – work in practice
    TikTok ban: What could it mean for creators?
    From both Democrats and Republicans, there was no let-up. A spokesperson for TikTok said afterwards the politicians were “grandstanding”. There is most certainly some truth to that. But between the sometimes frustratingly verbose questioning, we did learn a thing or two.

    1. Legislators were united against TikTok
      There was criticism of TikTok from Republicans and Democrats, and the level of distrust and scepticism from all sides was stark.

    “Welcome to the most bipartisan committee in Congress,” said Republican congressman Buddy Carter.

    “Thank you, Mr Chew, for bringing Republicans and Democrats together,” said Dan Crenshaw, a Republican.

    It was really quite something to see so many politicians – who agree on practically nothing – agreeing wholeheartedly that TikTok was a security threat.

    TikTok complained afterwards that not enough time had been spent focusing on the platform’s measures to keep data safe.

    “Also not mentioned today by members of the committee: the livelihoods of the five million businesses on TikTok or the [US Constitution] First Amendment implications of banning a platform loved by 150 million Americans,” a TikTok spokesperson said.

    2. ByteDance engineers in China have access to some US data

    Mr Chew kept talking about a “Project Texas”, a proposal which will see it store all data in the US under the watch of American firm Oracle.

    However, Project Texas is not fully operational. As of now, Mr Chew confirmed that engineers at ByteDance – TikTok’s parent company – do have access to data.

    “We rely on global interoperability, Chinese engineers have access to data,” he said.

    It was an admission that politicians kept coming back to. Their point was that if data can be accessed by engineers in China, it’s hard to see how the Chinese government couldn’t also access it.

    On Friday, China’s foreign ministry repeated its claim that it does not ask companies to provide data or intelligence located in other countries.

    3. Chew has shares in ByteDance

    Perhaps Mr Chew’s least successful defence was his attempt to distance TikTok from ByteDance.

    By any definition, the Chinese company owns TikTok. Mr Chew himself used to be ByteDance’s chief financial officer.

    When initially asked, Mr Chew didn’t want to say whether he owned shares in ByteDance. Pressed by lawmakers, he eventually said he did, but tried to downplay the connection.

    China’s government says it would oppose any US plan to force ByteDance to sell TikTok – something authorities are reportedly considering.

    4. Chew’s children do not use TikTok

    At one point in the hearing, Mr Chew was asked by congresswoman Nanette Barragán, a Democrat, whether or not his own children used TikTok.

    He said they didn’t because they live in Singapore. In that country the version of the app for children younger than 13 is not available.

    5. What about Cambridge Analytica?

    Mr Chew generally pulled his punches. He didn’t often take the fight back to members of Congress. But there were rare moments where he did push back – and effectively.

    When quizzed on TikTok’s use of user data, he said: “With all due respect, American companies don’t have a great track record with data … Just look at Facebook and Cambridge Analytica.”

    It was a barbed comment, but a reasonable point to make.

    Harvesting of Facebook users’ personal information by Cambridge Analytica, a British political consultancy, and other third-party apps caused uproar when it emerged in 2018.

  • Dramatic moment: Kudus fights off security to grant fan’s selfie wish

    Dramatic moment: Kudus fights off security to grant fan’s selfie wish

    Mohammed Kudus, a Black Stars midfielder, served a classy moment following Ghana’s game against Angola in Kumasi on Thursday.

    The Ajax star was crucial as the Black Stars came from behind to defeat Angola and move closer to qualifying for the Africa Cup of Nations.

    Antoine Semenyo scored the only goal late in injury time, smashing home after Angola’s scrappy defending.

    One fan attempted to force his way to Kudus, but security stopped him, resulting in a minor scuffle.

    Kudus intervened in a social media video, stopping security from heckling the fan and allowing him to take a photo.

    The 23-year-old midfielder’s freekick in the final minute of the match led to the winner from Semenyo. Kudus and his teammates will leave Ghana for Luanda this weekend for the second leg on Monday.

    Victory over the Palancas Negras will seal qualification for the Black Stars of Ghana. Ghana sits top of Group E with seven points from four games.

    Hughton opens up on Kudus Earlier, Sports Brief reported that New Black Stars coach, Chris Hughton believes finding the right balance will bring the very best out of versatile midfielder Mohammed Kudus.

    The Ajax star has been in sensational form this season despite playing in various positions on the field. Kudus has excelled as a midfielder, a winger and a forward, scoring 18 goals across all competitions for the Dutch giants.

    Black Stars fans praise Thomas Partey Thomas Partey seems to have finally won the hearts of Ghanaian football fans after a strong display in the game against Angola.

    The Arsenal midfielder captained the Black Stars to a hard-fought victory over the Palancas Negras in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifier in Kumasi on Thursday.

    Second-half substitute, Antoine Semenyo scored late in injury time to hand Ghana all three points.

  • Head coach Clarke extends contract with Scotland

    Head coach Clarke extends contract with Scotland

    Steve Clarke has signed a new contract extension until 2026, providing Scotland with a timely boost ahead of their Euro 2024 qualifying doubleheader against Cyprus and Spain.

    Temur Ketsbaia’s men visit Hampden Park tomorrow afternoon, followed by Luis Enrique’s side on Tuesday.

    “I am proud that my coaching team and I will continue to lead the team through the next two qualifying campaigns, as well as Nations League Group A,” Clarke, 59, said after being appointed in May 2019.

    “But being able to do so is a testament to the squad of players who have been central to our improvement. 

    “The immediate focus is ensuring a positive start to our Euros campaign against Cyprus, who were the opposition for my first match in charge in 2019. 

    “When we named our squad for the double-header, I spoke with my coaches about how the quality and depth of the squad has evolved in those four years. 

    “We now have an experienced core who have been constants throughout but we have also added quality and competition in every area of the team. 

    “We also played that game in front of around 30,000 fans and will walk out on Saturday, and Tuesday against Spain, to a full house at Hampden Park. 

    “It’s imperative we keep the fans engaged and entertained and that is something we are all committed to achieving through winning games and qualifying for more major tournaments, starting with Germany next year.”

    Scottish FA chief exec Ian Maxwell added: “This has been one of the easiest decisions and conversations during my time as chief executive. 

    “Steve has united the nation behind a successful men’s national team. 

    “And as we look forward to a new Euro 2024 campaign, it was important we demonstrated our commitment to Steve and his backroom team and acknowledged the continuity that has been key to our improvement in the past four years. 

    “I know how determined the squad are to return to a major final after experiencing Euro 2020. 

    “And while everyone was disappointed not to have reached the World Cup in Qatar last December, securing promotion to Nations League Group A was another sign of the undeniable progress made. 

    “I’m sure the fans will share the Scottish FA’s excitement and we wish Steve and his squad all the best for the forthcoming double-header.”

  • Kearns seeks to avenge Toffees after hitting form

    Kearns seeks to avenge Toffees after hitting form

    Missy Bo Kearns believes she has discovered the secret to success in the Women’s Super League as Liverpool seeks derby redemption.

    The Reds were defeated 3-0 by Everton at Anfield in September, but a win at Goodison Park will bring them within three points of the Toffees.

    It’s been an up-and-down season for promoted Liverpool, who have struggled to find their feet after starting the season with a win over reigning champions Chelsea.

    But Kearns, the Reds’ youngest captain ever at 20 years old, is ready to show off her personal growth and help her team win tonight’s game.

    Speaking exclusively to LiveScore, the now 21-year-old said: “The past few games I have been quite consistent. 

    “In the first half of the season, I would have a game where I was playing well and then have one where I would dip for 10 minutes and it was a bit inconsistent. 

    “Now all of that has gone and I know I can hold my own so it’s all about pushing to get better each week and not settling for average and that is what my focus has been on since Christmas.

    “Everyone knows that the last result against Everton wasn’t good enough. We got beaten at Anfield but we get another opportunity now and we want to win, especially in a derby.

    “The last time we played them was a big occasion, we had just beaten Chelsea and expectations were high. 

    “We have played plenty of games at this level and it is the Merseyside derby but it is still just a normal game. It’s just a pitch with two goals and four corners and that is what we need to focus on, we can’t let the occasion get to us.”

    earns is enjoying her first full season in the WSL and popped up with the decisive goal in the recent 2-1 win over Tottenham.

    Her performances in past weeks were enough to earn her Liverpool’s Player of the Month award for February, which was a special moment for the academy graduate. 

    On the recognition, she said: “For me, it’s about the team and the results but the fans voting me for a personal award gives you a boost and it shows that my recent performances must have been satisfying for them.

    “I have scored a few goals recently and anywhere I can help the team is the best thing to me and I feel like I am improving every week and getting stronger every game and adapting to the style of the WSL.

    “Since I was 10 years old I said I am going to be a professional footballer and I have never looked back. I have worked hard and got to where I wanted to be.”

    Missy Bo Kearns is pushing for her first senior England call-up
    Missy Bo Kearns is pushing for her first senior England call-up

    England’s success at Euro 2022 has sparked excitement over the upcoming Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand — and Kearns is determined to make the step up to the senior squad.

    Currently a key part of the Under-23s set-up, the versatile midfielder has been enjoying her international football this season and has vowed to keep working in order to eventually earn a call-up from Sarina Wiegman.

    She said: “This year I have had experience against top nations and showcasing what I can do. 

    “I am going there with lots of confidence and getting lots of goals and assists which is benefitting me when I come back to the club because I want to keep pushing and you never know who is watching you. 

    “I am friends with a few of the girls in the senior team and we speak regularly. If I am doing well they will send me a message after the game and vice versa. 

    “It is nice that players older and more experienced than me are giving me credit when I am doing well and I know if ever need any advice then credit when I am doing well and I know if ever need any advice then I can go to them.”

  • New Portugal boss ‘falls in love’ with CR7 after managing his first game

    New Portugal boss ‘falls in love’ with CR7 after managing his first game

    Yesterday marked the start of a new era for Portugal and Cristiano Ronaldo as new manager Roberto Martinez took charge of his first game.

    After former boss Fernando Santos, who led the team to the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, was relieved of his duties, the former Belgium coach took over the reins of the one-time European champion.

    Ronaldo led his team to a 4-0 victory over Liechtenstein, scoring twice, including a delightful free kick in the 78th minute, before making way for young Goncalo Ramos, who shone at the World Cup.

    It didn’t take long for Martinez to ‘fall in love’ with Ronaldo and identify a trait that has distinguished the veteran among the best during his illustrious career.

    Martinez praises Ronaldo’s commitment

    As reported by Sky Sports, Ronaldo set a new world record as the most capped international with his 197th cap for Portugal, surpassing Kuwait’s Bader Al-Mutawa.

    Speaking to reporters after the game, a delighted Martinez praised the superstar and stated the team would need his veterancy going forward, as reported by Sportskeeda.

    “To be in the national team, you have to be committed. It’s a new cycle. It’s very important that he shows commitment so that we can use his experience, and he shows that commitment,” he said.

    Ronaldo increased his world record for most international goals to 120 with the goals and has now scored every year for Portugal since 2004.

    The Selecao face Luxembourg next on Sunday as the Euro 2024 qualifying series continues.

    Martinez makes demands from Ronaldo Sports Brief previously reported on Portugal’s new coach making his first assignment to meet with the Al-Nassr captain in Saudi Arabia.

    The 49-year-old reported shared his plans with Ronaldo and urged him to help Portugal win Euro 2024 in Germany next year.

    The 38-year-old led his country to their first major victory in 2016 when they defeated France 1-0 in the final to win the title in Paris.

  • Argentina and Brighton star Mac Allister, the clubs ‘hot cake’ now

    Argentina and Brighton star Mac Allister, the clubs ‘hot cake’ now

    Argentina midfielder Alexis Mac Allister’s father has revealed that a number of clubs are interested in signing the World Cup winner.

    The 24-year-old has established himself as a key player for Premier League side Brighton and Hove Albion, and he has recently been linked with Manchester City and Liverpool.

    Playing a key role in Argentina’s victory in Qatar 2022 has raised Mac Allister’s profile and market value.

    Brighton would be sad to see him go, but Carlos Mac Allister, who was also capped by Argentina, claims his son is wanted elsewhere.

    “The clubs are starting to call us about Alexis, but there are no concrete conversations for now,” he said, quoted by TNT Sports.

    “We will decide together with Brighton, they deserve respect. We will also choose the best project based on the coach, it is not just about money.”

    Alexis Mac Allister, who has a contract through to the end of the 2024-25 season, recently said his “next step” should be with another Premier League club.

    Liverpool may be looking to refresh their midfield at the end of the campaign, while Mac Allister could also be a shrewd replacement for Ilkay Gundogan should the Germany international leave City.

    Brighton sit seventh in the Premier League and are firmly in the hunt for a European place, with Mac Allister netting seven goals and adding one assist during their success so far this term in that competition.

    They are also through to the FA Cup semi-finals, where Manchester United await them at Wembley.

    If Mac Allister stays in England, he would want to play for an elite team.

    Mac Allister told TyC Sports, as reported on March 1: “I don’t have a particular team where I say ‘this is the way I play’. I think that here in the Premier League, there are very strong teams that play very well, like Manchester City and Arsenal.

    “Chelsea too, I had [Graham] Potter as coach [at Brighton] and I know the idea he has of playing football.

    “Manchester United are returning to be what they were, and Liverpool are going through some ups and downs but they still have a very important team.

    “If I have to say a place, I would like my next step to be in the Premier League. But the truth is that I am very focused here in Brighton and enjoying the present.”

  • After two yellow cards and Kyle walker was still on the pitch?

    After two yellow cards and Kyle walker was still on the pitch?

    Manchester United players had a difficult night in Naples as England scraped a 2-1 win over Italy to kick off their Euro 2024 campaign in high gear.

    Mateo Retegui’s first goal for his country was rendered technically ineffective by goals from Harry Kane and Declan Rice in the Three Lions’ first win over Gli Azzurri since 2012.

    Despite the win, both Manchester City and Manchester United players could have done better. From Luke Shaw’s red card to Jack Grealish’s open goal miss to Phil Foden’s 10-minute cameo to Harry Maguire’s role in Retegui’s goal, the Manchester stars had a bad night.

    Nothing, however, was more bizarre than Kyle Walker receiving two yellow cards and remaining on the pitch.

    For those who were following the game, Walker was thought to have received his first yellow card in the 53rd minute.

    He was then shown another yellow card in the 71st minute for time-wasting but surprisingly, referee Srdjan Jovanovic did not produce a red card, much to the bewilderment of fans.

    The first yellow card wasn’t shown in real time on television, with broadcasters and live sites confirming the full-back had been booked.

    The second yellow card was visible to everyone following the game on TV.

    Why did Walker avoid red?

    So, did Walker receive a card in the 53rd minute or not? When he got his second booking, Italy players did not seem to remind the referee that he was on a yellow card already, which means the players knew the first card was not his – despite the confusion among fans.

    As the confusion and debate raged online, fans claimed it was instead Jack Grealish who was booked in the 53rd minute and not his Man City teammate.

    However, according to UEFA’s official website, neither Grealish nor Walker received a card in the 53rd minute and thus, Walker rightfully deserved to remain on the pitch. Bizarrely, the player recorded to have been booked around that time was Giovanni Di Lorenzo.

    The contested incident happened during a confrontation between both sets of players, with Jovanovic brandishing a yellow card.

    The Napoli captain must have said something to the referee, with broadcasters thinking it was Walker’s fault.

  • Mesut Ozil says he chose Madrid over Barca under Jose Mourinho’s influence

    Mesut Ozil says he chose Madrid over Barca under Jose Mourinho’s influence

    Mesut Ozil has revealed the vital decision that led to his signing for Real Madrid in 2010 despite  a long-standing interest from rivals, Barcelona.

    After a stellar career that included stints at Real Madrid and Arsenal, the 34-year-old German midfielder recently announced his retirement from football.

    According to Football Espana, Ozil has now admitted that Jose Mourinho was the deciding factor in his decision to leave La Blaugrana and join Real Madrid in his biggest career move.

    “He took me to see the stadium and all the trophies they had won. That gave me goosebumps.

    The visit in Barcelona was less enthusiastic and what was more disappointing is that Pep Guardiola didn’t bother to meet me.”

    Ozil said Mourinho was undoubtedly the most important element of his choice. “After my visits, my decision was one hundred percent clear: I wanted to be a Madridista.”

    Ozil would go on to make 159 appearances for Real Madrid, winning one La Liga title and one Copa del Rey before joining Arsenal in 2013.

    Ozil cried after Madrid exit

    Meanwhile, Ozil has revealed he had tears in his eyes when he boarded the flight from the airport in the Spanish capital following his departure from Real Madrid in 2013, Marca reports.

    The German midfielder had fallen down the pecking order at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium and after a conflict with president, Florentino Perez, decided to look for another team.

    Ozil would later pen a lucrative deal to join English Premier League giants, Arsenal but not without regretting leaving Real Madrid where he was undoubtedly loved by the club’s fans.

    Essien pays tribute to Ozil

    Sports Brief also reported on former Ghana and Chelsea midfielder, Michael Essien paying tribute to Ozil following the German’s retirement.

    The former Real Madrid star announced he would be hanging up his boots on March 22 after a successful 17 years in football at all levels. The 2014 World Cup winner played together with Essien during the Ghanaian’s brief loan spell at Spanish giants, Real Madrid.

  • UEFA wants to ban Barcelona indefinitely from the Champions League

    UEFA wants to ban Barcelona indefinitely from the Champions League

    UEFA, Europe’s governing body, wants to punish Barcelona by barring them from the Champions League for an indefinite period of time.

    From 2001 to 2018, Barcelona is accused of making payments totaling more than €7 million to Jose Maria Enriquez Negreira, former vice president of the Spanish Technical Committee of Referees.

    According to Forbes, if Barcelona is found guilty of the allegations, UEFA will request a multi-year ban from European competitions such as the Champions League.

    UEFA’s Ethics and Disciplinary Inspectors have been appointed to conduct an investigation into Barcelona’s possible violation of UEFA’s legal framework in connection with the so-called ‘Caso Negreira.’

    Barcelona through its president Joan Laporta has since denied the club broke any laws and insisted all payments were made legally for consultation services carried out by Negreira.

    Barcelona worried about UEFA ban Meanwhile, officials at Barcelona are worried about being banned from UEFA competitions after the European football governing body opened an investigation into the club.

    The Catalans believed they could be sanctioned by UEFA which automatically means a ban from the Champions League for at least one season if they are found guilty.

    Barcelona, on the other hand, is unconcerned about the Spanish justice system or the prosecutor’s office, believing that no crimes were committed in the ‘Negreira case.

    Barcelona could be relegated to second division

    It was reported that Barcelona could be sent to the Spanish second division of Spanish football in the wake of the corruption charges the club faces over paying officials.

    Spanish prosecutors have charged Barcelona with corruption over payments the club made to a former vice president of Spain’s referees’ Jose Maria Enriquez Negreira.

    The Catalan giants had paid the company of Enrique Negreira £7.4m between 2001 and 2018, which has caused much resentment within La Liga teams.

  • Lionel Messi may return to ‘first love’ Barcelona to end career – best friend Sergio Aguero hints

    Lionel Messi may return to ‘first love’ Barcelona to end career – best friend Sergio Aguero hints

    Lionel Messi’s future has been a source of contention in recent months, with the Argentine superstar reportedly yet to sign a new contract with Paris Saint-Germain despite having only a few months left on his current deal.

    Barcelona has been pushing for a reunion with the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner, who left the club in heartbreaking circumstances in 2021 after 17 seasons at Camp Nou.

    According to the Daily Mirror, ex-Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero has revealed that Messi is likely to return to Barcelona to finish his career.

    “I think Leo Messi should retire at Barca. Barcelona is his home and he should finish his career there. My feeling is that there is a 50% chance that he will return.”

    PSG are still hoping to convince the veteran to renew his contract at the club beyond 2023 while Saudi Arabia top club, Al-Hilal and MLS side, Inter Miami have also indicated their interest in signing the World Cup winner.

    Messi gives Barcelona return conditions

    Meanwhile, Messi reportedly wants a portion of the income Barcelona would get for the tribute being prepared for him – if he is to return to Camp Nou, Daily Post reports.

    The 35-year-old was said to have given this as one of the conditions for making a sensational move back to the Catalan giants after he left in 2021 after 17 seasons.

    Barcelona has apparently offered Messi over €200 million to lure him back to Spain and the Argentine is said to be keen on returning to the club where he made history.

    PSG U-turns on Messi contract

    In related coverage, Sports Brief reported that PSG could let Messi go at the end of the 2022/23 season when his contract with the Ligue 1 giants expires.

    The club and the player have been in negotiations over a contract renewal but talks have since paused, with the club said to be reconsidering the deal.

    PSG are unsure on whether they want to keep Messi at the end of the season and some in the club’s hierarchy believe the squad needs to change.

  • Vinicius Junior’s relationship with Carlo Ancelotti likely a fuel of manager to Brazil

    Vinicius Junior’s relationship with Carlo Ancelotti likely a fuel of manager to Brazil

    Vinicius Junior is delighted to be working with Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti and the Brazilian national team in the future.

    Ancelotti has been linked with the vacant managerial role following Tite’s departure after the South Americans’ heartbreaking World Cup exit, despite still having a contract with the La Liga giants.

    Vinicius has risen to prominence under Ancelotti’s tutelage at Real Madrid, according to Madrid Universal. The veteran manager is now interested in becoming Brazil’s next manager, according to the forward.

    Fellow Los Blancos star, Rodrygo earlier revealed he would love the Italian to take over as the national team manager after showing his admiration for the coach.

    Ancelotti has been widely tipped to leave Real Madrid at the end of the season and perhaps an announcement on his future is not far off.

    Ederson backs Ancelotti for job

    Meanwhile, Manchester City goalkeeper, Ederson also believes Ancelotti will most likely be named as the next Brazil coach, Daily Mail reports.

    The shot-stopper urged Brazil’s FA to seal the move after revealing he had spoken to national teammates, Casemiro, Eder Militao, and Vin Junior.

    All three of these stars have worked under Ancelotti at Real Madrid but the Italian manager has never managed at the international level.

    Real Madrid shortlist Ancelotti’s replacement

    Sports Brief also reported on Real Madrid beginning the search for Ancelotti’s replacement as Real Madrid manager, following the club’s recent slump in form under the veteran Italian.

    Club president, Florentino Perez is leaving no stone unturned as he tries to arrest Los Blancos’ poor run of results and will reportedly not mind a change in coaching if it is seen as needed.

    It was reported Real Madrid have since shortlisted Castilla coach, Raul Gonzalez and former Chelsea manager, Thomas Tuchel as Ancelotti’s potential replacements in the club’s hot seat.

  • Ghana-Angola: Watch how Asamoah Gyan, gives tips of his scoring prowess to Antoine Semenyo, the last minute scorer

    Ghana-Angola: Watch how Asamoah Gyan, gives tips of his scoring prowess to Antoine Semenyo, the last minute scorer

    Antoine Semenyo finally met his idol Asamoah Gyan after scoring the winner in the game between Ghana and Angola in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

    The Bournemouth forward came on in the second-half to smash home the winner late in injury time as the Black Stars collected all three points.

    After the game, Semenyo was spotted with Gyan, who was visibly giving the forward instructions on his positioning.

    In a video shared on social media, Gyan, who has seen it all at the senior national team, looked like handing over his scoring prowess to Semenyo.

    The victory keeps Ghana top of Group E, and three points clear off second place Angola and the Central African Republic.

    The Black Stars will seal qualification if they beat the Palancas Negras in Angola on Monday.

    How Semenyo reacted to his winner

    The Bournemouth forward expressed delight after netting a late winner for the Black Stars against Angola.

    “There was no pressure. I need to make sure I’m effective for the team. I always wanna help the team and be effective. I am happy today and we have to go again in the next few days,” he said after the game, as quoted by GHANASoccernet. “I’m really happy for the goal. I needed it, and the team needed it.”

    Asamoah Gyan meets Ghana U23 team

    As reported earlier Former Black Stars captain Asamoah Gyan paid a visit to the Ghana U23 team ahead of their CAF U23 Cup of Nations qualifiers against Algeria.

    The Black Meteors are preparing for the double-header against Algeria in the final round of qualifiers for the tournament to be hosted in Morocco.

    Ghana will travel to Algiers for the first leg on March 24, before hosting the North Africans in Kumasi four days later.

    Fans hail Thomas Partey Thomas Partey seems to have finally won the hearts of Ghanaian football fans after a strong display in the game against Angola.

    The Arsenal midfielder captained the Black Stars to a hard-fought victory over the Palancas Negras in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifier in Kumasi on Thursday. Second-half substitute, Antoine Semenyo scored late in injury time to hand Ghana all three points.

  • I was upset with Barcelona – Andres Iniesta tells why he was a Madrid fan for a while

    I was upset with Barcelona – Andres Iniesta tells why he was a Madrid fan for a while

    Andres Iniesta is a Barcelona legend, but he wasn’t always a fan of the club. In fact, he once backed their bitter archrivals, Real Madrid.

    According to Barca Blaugranes, Iniesta briefly supported Los Blancos as a child because he was upset with La Blaugrana.

    Why was Iniesta upset?

    Iniesta grew up in the Spanish province of Albacete and was part of Albacete Balompié’s youth set-up before he joined Barcelona.

    Iniesta grew up in the Spanish province of Albacete and played for Albacete Balompié before joining Barcelona.

    As a member of the team, he was a loyal supporter of both Albacete and Barcelona.

    That changed after the Catalans thrashed his team in La Liga, which caused him to dislike the team a bit. “It was one of those things you could have as a child.”

    One day Barca scored seven goals against Albacete, and I got angry at Barca. There was some time where I was a bit confused with my own mind,” he said.

    The game in question took place in 1992 in La Liga when Iniesta was only seven. Barcelona won the match 7-1 and the midfielder started telling people that he supported Madrid.

    Iniesta is a Barcelona legend Five years later, Iniesta joined Barcelona and the rest is history.

    He went on to play 674 games for the Spanish side and scored 57 goals and notched up 137 assists, according to Transfermarkt.

    Iniesta won four UEFA Champions League trophies, nine La Liga titles and won the Spanish Cup six times with Barcelona.

    Iniesta’s struggles with depression Sports Brief also reported that Barcelona icon, Iniesta wants everyone to realise that footballers are humans too.

    The ex-Spanish international has opened up on how stars struggle despite making mega money from the sport.

    Iniesta spoke about his depression struggles and revealed he had been in therapy over mental health issues.

  • Man Utd owners await revised offers for Premier League stalwarts

    Man Utd owners await revised offers for Premier League stalwarts

    Manchester United’s owners were waiting for new bids from a Qatari banker and British billionaire Jim Ratcliffe on Thursday, after the deadline for revised bids to buy the Premier League giants had passed.

    According to reports, bidders were originally told they had until 2100 GMT on Wednesday to submit new bids, but that deadline has now been extended.

    It is unknown when the new cut-off will be implemented. The only bidders who have made their intentions public are Sheikh Jassim Bin Hamad Al Thani, the chairman of Qatar Islamic Bank, and Ratcliffe, the founder of chemicals giant INEOS.

    A first round of bidding took place last month, and it has been reported that there are as many as eight different potential investors for the club owned by the American Glazer family, who are massively unpopular with Manchester United fans.

    The BBC said several other proposed investors made their submissions by the Wednesday deadline.

    No figures have been revealed but one or more of the initial bids was understood to be in the region of £4.5 billion ($5.5 billion).

    That would make Manchester United — who have not won the Premier League for a decade — the most expensive sports club in history, although it would be short of the £6 billion valuation reportedly placed on United by the Glazers.

    United’s owners announced in November they were conducting a strategic review, with the sale of the club one option being considered. Sheikh Jassim is bidding for 100 percent control, aiming to return the club to its “former glories”.

    A source close to Sheikh Jassim’s bid told AFP he remains confident his bid is “the best for the club, fans and local community”.

    ‘Stupid prices’ INEOS chemical company founder Ratcliffe, a boyhood United fan, wants to buy the combined Glazer shareholding of 69 percent of the 20-time English champions. The 70-year-old told the Wall Street Journal this week he was not interested in paying “stupid prices” in a bidding war for one of football’s most iconic clubs.

    Ratcliffe, who already owns French club Nice, said his interest in United would be “purely in winning things”, calling the club a “community asset”, rather than a financial one.

    The Glazers have angered many United fans by saddling the club with huge debts since they took over in 2005.

    They appeared ready to cash out at an enormous profit when they invited external investment in November.

    However, they could yet shun the option of selling a controlling stake in the club, with other parties understood to be interested in a minority shareholding.

    Ratcliffe visited Old Trafford last week along with INEOS representatives, a day after a delegation from Sheikh Jassim’s group toured the club’s stadium and training ground.

  • Barcelona under investigation by UEFA over millions of euros paid to a former referee’s chief

    Barcelona under investigation by UEFA over millions of euros paid to a former referee’s chief

    Court documents indicate that, Barcelona paid €7.3m (£6.5m) to the company of Jose Mara Enriquez Negreira, the former vice-president of Spanish football’s refereeing committee, from 2001 to 2018.

    UEFA’s investigation could result in a Champions League ban.

    Because of payments of millions of euros to a company linked to a Spanish refereeing official, Barcelona is facing a new legal threat from UEFA, including a possible Champions League ban.

    On Thursday, the European Union’s governing body requested an investigation into the matter, which is already being investigated by Spanish prosecutors.

    Since April 2007, Champions League regulations have allowed UEFA to ban teams from the competition for one season if they were involved in match fixing.

    UEFA said on Thursday it asked disciplinary inspectors to “conduct an investigation regarding a potential violation of UEFA’s legal framework by FC Barcelona in connection with the so-called Caso Negreira.”

    Court documents show Barcelona paid €7.3m (£6.5m) from 2001 until 2018 to the company of Jose Mara Enriquez Negreira, the former vice-president of Spanish football’s refereeing committee.

    Prosecutors in Spain have formally accused Barcelona of corruption in sports, fraudulent management and falsification of business documents.

    An investigating judge will decide if this will lead to charges.

    No evidence has yet been published that referees or individual games were actually influenced.

  • Black Stars pay a final tribute to Christian Atsu during training

    Black Stars pay a final tribute to Christian Atsu during training

    Ghana’s senior national team, the Black Stars, gathered to pay their respects to a former teammate, Christian Atsu. Atsu tragically died as a result of an earthquake that struck Turkey and Syria last month.

    The Black Stars will face Angola in an Africa Cup of Nations qualifier on Thursday, and the players took a moment to remember Atsu during training on Tuesday.

    A huge banner with the inscription ‘RIP Christian Atsu’ was displayed at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium, according to a photo posted on social media.

    The late winger appeared in 65 games for the Black Stars, scoring nine goals before deciding to retire from the national team following the 2019 AFCON.

    Black Stars await AFCON challenge Meanwhile, Ghana will host the Palancas Negras of Angola in Kumasi for the first leg of their double-header.

    The team will leave for Luanda four days later for the second leg of the qualifying tie.

    Ghana sit top of Group E after two matches and will seal qualification if they collect all six points on offer.

    Chelsea auction jerseys for Atsu Elsewhere, Sports Brief reported on English giants, Chelsea honouring the late Atsu by helping complete a school building he had started.

    The Ghanaian spent five seasons on the books of the Blues despite failing to make a competitive appearance for the Stamford Bridge outfit.

    On Saturday, Chelsea engaged Everton in an English Premier League game and this game will help complete the work Atsu had started.

    Adebayor pays tribute to Atsu

    Emmanuel Adebayor has paid emotional tribute to Atsu after attending the final burial of the late winger.

    The former Ghana international was laid to rest in his hometown of Ada on March 17 in a sombre memorial.

    Atsu was among the many who tragically died following the earthquake in Turkey and Syria on February 6.

  • UK to block TikTok from ‘all parliamentary devices’ over cyber security concerns

    UK to block TikTok from ‘all parliamentary devices’ over cyber security concerns

    The Chinese-owned social media app TikTok will be blocked from devices and networks in the latest ban imposed on it.

    The House of Commons and House of Lords commissions have announced that they will follow the government’s lead on official devices, citing the importance of cyber security.

    TikTok, according to a parliament spokesman, “will be blocked from all parliamentary devices and the wider parliamentary network.”

    “Cyber security is a top priority for parliament, however we do not comment on specific details of our cyber or physical security controls, policies or incidents.” they said.

    A similar decision has also been taken in Scotland, with TikTok banned from government phones and other devices.

    It comes as the TikTok chief faces questions on security at the US Congress.

    And last week the app was banned from UK government phones.

  • Former national tennis champion Georgina Amoafi Kingsley-Nyinah laid to rest

    Former national tennis champion Georgina Amoafi Kingsley-Nyinah laid to rest

    Wife of the former Chief Justice Kingsley-Nyinah and former national tennis champion Kingsley-Nyinah was laid to rest.

    Madam Georgina Amoafi Kingsley-Nyinah was laid to rest in Accra on March 17, 2023, following a funeral service at St. John Methodist Church, Tantra Hill.

    On February 18, 2023, Mrs. Kingsley-Nyinah, a former national champion in ladies’ tennis, passed away in Accra.

    Her late husband, Justice Joseph Kingsley-Nyinah, was a former Ghanaian electoral commissioner.

    She was also Mother to Mrs. Patricia Christabel Kyerematen, Wife of Former Minister of Trade and Industry, Alan Kyerematen.

    Madam Georgina Amoafi Kingsley-Nyinah’s love for Tennis started in her early years at the Adabraka Tennis Club and she maintained the passion throughout the years.

    The climax of her competition career came in 1976 when she defeated Victoria Dowuona to win the Ghana Lawn Tennis Association Women’s Single Title.

    She won the national title at the age of 44 and defeated her younger and powerful opponent who was 18 and pre-tournament favorite, prevailing over three sets of nail-biting tennis.

    It was an extraordinary demonstration of skill, determination and strength of spirit which were the hallmarks of the career of the deceased.

    It was the last competitive match of the woman known in Tennis circles as Auntie Georgina, who subsequently shifted from Social Tennis and also played Administrative roles in the Sport serving on the Board of the Ghana Lawn Tennis Club and on the National Sports Council for many years.

    Madam Georgina Amoafi Kingsley-Nyinah was 90.

  • NBA:Kerr cracks jokes as Mavericks get upset about the Warriors’ easy dunk

    NBA:Kerr cracks jokes as Mavericks get upset about the Warriors’ easy dunk

    Steve Kerr found it amusing that the Dallas Mavericks were planning a protest after the Golden State Warriors defeated them 127-125.

    The owner of the Mavericks, Mark Cuban, alleged that it was the “worst officiating non-call mistake possibly in the history of the NBA,” but Warriors coach Steve Kerr was sure that nothing was wrong.

    Late in the third quarter, the Mavericks called a timeout and claimed the game officials had informed them they had the ball.

    With 1:56 remaining in the third, a referee decision caused Warriors centre Kevon Looney to dunk unopposed off a pass from Jordan Poole, bringing the score to 90-87.

    The Dallas players were not in position, leading to protests from Cuban and coach Jason Kidd, but the dunk stood.

    Kerr teasingly said it was his season’s standout ATO – after timeout.

    “Number one, it was my best ATO of the year. It worked brilliantly, just the way we got organised and confused them,” he said.

    More seriously, he added: “I had to stop. When I saw them at the other end, I had to stop and think, ‘Isn’t this our basket?’, because I had drawn up a play for an out-of-bounds [play] underneath, a baseline out-of-bounds.

    “When they were down at the other end I had to stop and think, ‘Is this right?’.

    “I don’t know what happened. You’d have to ask their side. I thought it was pretty clear that it was our ball and that’s why I was drawing up a play out-of-bounds on the baseline.

    “But they all lined up at the other end. I guess they assumed it was their ball.“

    Looney, who benefitted from the confusion, said: “I didn’t know what was going on. I’m just glad JP passed to me because I needed that to get to my double-double.”

  • ‘Polite and smart’ Retegui incites Mancini to earn Batistuta comparison from Italy coach Mancini

    ‘Polite and smart’ Retegui incites Mancini to earn Batistuta comparison from Italy coach Mancini

    Mateo Retegui, an Italian striker of Argentinean descent, is Roberto Mancini’s Serie A equivalent of Gabriel Batistuta from the Albiceleste.

    Retegui has received his first call-up from Italy for this month’s Euro 2024 qualifiers, which get underway on Thursday at home against England.

    The striker for Tigre, who was born, raised, and has played his entire club career in Argentina, is eligible for the Azzurri through his grandfather.

    It is not unusual for strikers to travel between Argentina and Italy, but Retegui is going to the Italy camp rather than a Serie A team.

    “Coming like this from Argentina to Italy, not in a club team, is not so simple,” coach Mancini said on the eve of the England game.

    “It takes some time, but the guy is polite and smart. He is a good striker, young, we have great confidence and we have to give him some time.”

    Retegui has scored 28 goals in 48 Argentine Primera Division games for Tigre.

    While Mancini noted comparisons with former Napoli striker German Denis, he preferred to draw parallels with the great Batistuta.

    Batistuta joined Fiorentina from Boca Juniors in 1991 and was a great success both with the Viola and with Roma.

    “[Retegui] is a classic striker, I see that many compare him to Denis,” Mancini said. “I remember when Batistuta arrived in Italy, he reminds me of him.

    “Clearly, he is a young guy and needs time and to grow. But I don’t think it will take long to settle in.”

  • Ronaldo reveals he thought of retiring over World Cup frustration

    Ronaldo reveals he thought of retiring over World Cup frustration

    Cristiano Ronaldo has revealed he considered international retirement following the World Cup in Qatar.

    Portugal crashed out at the quarter-final stage after defeat against Morocco, with Ronaldo losing his spot in the starting line-up for the knockout stages.

    Fernando Santos dropped Ronaldo to the bench for the last-16 tie against Switzerland, with his replacement Goncalo Guedes scoring a hat-trick in a dominant 6-1 victory.

    Ronaldo would continue as a substitute for the clash with Morocco, which almost spelled the end of his Portugal career.

    “I’m not going to lie. In our life, we have to put everything on the scale,” Ronaldo said ahead of a Euro 2024 qualifier against Liechtenstein.

    “We thought, we reflected, me and my family, but then we came to the conclusion that, despite the difficulties, we cannot throw in the towel. I was able to see situations at different angles. I learned a lot from that.

    “I’m glad to be back. Roberto Martinez showed that he counted on me. I’ve always wanted to play. As you know, he talked to everyone and to me, too. And I was able to realise that I have a lot to give to the national team.

    “I feel it, I want it, and my desire is to take Portugal to the highest level. I will always give my contribution when they need me.”

    Portugal begin their qualification campaign for Euro 2024 under new stewardship following the appointment of Martinez, which Ronaldo expects to lead to a more attacking approach.

    “There are a lot of different players, possibly the system will change, but it’s not for me to talk about it,” he said.

    “Changes are good in life. What we feel in the national team is very positive. It feels like something special and positive. The intensity is very good, it’s different.

    “I’m sure the national team will be prepared for whatever comes. I’m sure Portugal will be a team with more attacking.”

  • Razza’s Reds has unfinished business in Merseyside derby

    Razza’s Reds has unfinished business in Merseyside derby

    A fiery Merseyside derby with Liverpool seeking retribution against Everton is what Rhiannon Roberts is anticipating.

    In their first Women’s Super League matchup of the season, the Toffees defeated their neighbourhood rivals 3-0 at Anfield thanks to goals from Megan Finnigan, Jess Park, and Hanna Bennison.

    On Friday, Liverpool will have a chance to right the wrongs, and dependable defender Roberts, who is affectionately known by her teammates as Razza, is itching to triumph over her noisy neighbours.

    I’ve played in two Anfield derbies now, Roberts said in an exclusive interview with LiveScore. We could still be playing right now and probably wouldn’t have scored in the first one, which was heartbreaking.

    “Then the latest one, back in September, it just felt a little flat for some reason. There wasn’t that usual derby feel around it.

    “I can see it being feisty on Friday, so I’m looking forward to it. Last time, I remember saying at half-time in the dressing room, ‘How has nobody had a yellow card yet?’.

    “It’s always pretty heated when we meet, as you’d expect. But we’ve just got to be focused and disciplined. It’s easier said than done but we have to try and play the game and not the occasion.”

    The 32-year-old, who is also a regular at international level with Wales, admits that the buzz of playing at stadiums like Anfield and Goodison Park still fills her with huge excitement.

    She added: “It’s unbelievable — incredible really. You go to these grounds as a kid watching your team, so to play at grounds like that in front of so many supporters is amazing.

    “It just makes you want to make a stand and help turn Merseyside red!”

    Finding their feet

    Liverpool stunned reigning WSL champions Chelsea on the opening day of the 2022-23 campaign
    Liverpool stunned reigning WSL champions Chelsea on the opening day of the 2022-23 campaign

    Having been relegated to the Championship on a points-per-game ruling in the prematurely curtailed 2019-20 season, this campaign is Liverpool’s first back in the WSL.

    Matt Beard’s side stunned reigning champions Chelsea 2-1 on the opening day but have struggled for consistency — picking up 11 points from 13 outings since.

    Still, Roberts feels the campaign has been a positive one to date for her side.

    She explained: “We had a great start to the season in beating Chelsea. We really put our mark on the league, which was nice.

    “We struggled a bit after that just finding our feet again in the top division. But I think we’ve got up to speed with being back in the Super League now.

    “Liverpool are a massive club, one of the biggest in the world, and they are backing us fully. They’ll keep on supporting us and year on year we’ll continue to get stronger.

    “Hopefully we can be competing in the top two or three sooner rather than later.

    “We kind of got used to that winning feeling last year! But the best thing is we had a great group of players then and we’ve managed to keep most of it together.

    “It’s a great group of girls, such a good environment and it’s a great place to be. We know how important that is.”

    Any relegation fears for Liverpool were greatly eased with last weekend’s vital 2-1 victory over Tottenham.

    Emma Koivisto and Missy Bo Kearns were on the scoresheet for the Reds and Roberts believes the result will alleviate the pressure in the final weeks of the season.

    Roberts said: “That was a huge three points for us against Spurs. We didn’t put too much pressure on ourselves, we just tried to treat it like another game.

    “Come full-time though, we knew how important that was and it just divides us a little bit from the bottom few teams, meaning we can start to look up the table.

    “We’ve had a couple of injuries this season. Losing Leanne Kiernan at the start of the campaign was a blow for us because she was on really good form last year.

    “But we’ve had a successful season. We set our own targets as a team with our psychologists and we are meeting those at the minute.

    “Now it’s just about picking up as many points as possible and seeing how far up the league we can finish.”

  • Kumasi fans can’t wait to see Kudus and Partey in action

    Kumasi fans can’t wait to see Kudus and Partey in action

    In order to watch the Black Stars play Angola in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, some Kumasi football fans have vowed to throng the Baba Yara Sports Stadium.

    Most of the supporters said they planned to show up at the stadium in large numbers to watch the in-form Ghanaian players Mohammed Kudus and Thomas Partey.

    These supporters believe Kudus and Partey have both demonstrated impressive play at the club level and would like to see them repeat that effort on March 23, 2023, at Baba Yara.

    “I have heard the Black Stars are in town. I will come to the stadium to watch the match. I just want to see Mohammed Kudus in action” a taxi driver when GhanaWeb visited Kumasi said.

    “Kudus and Partey are the stars in the team and we have trust in them to deliver victory for us,” a phone seller stated.

    Despite the poor performance of the team at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar most of the fans expressed optimism in the team. They explained that the appointment of coach Chris Hughton has renewed their hope in the Black Stars.

    “God willing we will come to the stadium in our numbers. No matter what when the Black Stars play in Kumasi we will come and cheer them to victory and pray for them,” one of the traders said.

    The Black Stars’ match against Angola would be their first match in 2023 after the World Cup in Qatar.

    The last time the team played in Kumasi back in March 2022, fans filled the Baba Yara Sports Stadium to the rafters and the fans have promised to replicate it once again.

    Fans promise to throng Baba Yara Stadium to watch Black Stars in action.

  • Balogun, in Turner’s opinion, would be a “great addition” to the USMNT

    Balogun, in Turner’s opinion, would be a “great addition” to the USMNT

    Folarin Balogun would be a “great addition” to the American team, but Arsenal’s Matt Turner only wants the striker to switch if it “comes from the heart.”

    Balogun, an Arsenal forward, has performed admirably while on loan with Reims this year, scoring 17 goals in 27 Ligue 1 games, second only to Kylian Mbappe and Jonathan David (both 19).

    With the New York-born star eligible to represent England, the United States, and Nigeria, the 21-year-stellar old’s play has sparked talk of a fight for his international allegiance.

    Balogun has been a pillar of the England Under-21 setup, but he withdrew from the team for this month’s international matches due to injury.

    That development has led to fresh hope Balogun will pledge himself to the USMNT, and Turner confirmed he had spoken to his Gunners team-mate on the matter.

    “I spoke to Flo. We obviously had most of our preseason together, and I knew going into it he had some roots in the USA,” the goalkeeper said on Wednesday.

    “So, he and I developed a relationship pretty quickly. That’s pretty much the extent of it. We check in on each other here and there.

    “He’d be a great addition to our national team. I think he’s done really well, obviously, for his club on loan, and we’ll see.

    “The decision has to come from the heart, because it’s not necessarily an easy task to come and play in these CONCACAF games. It’s a tough region at times.

    “So, for us, we’d be really grateful to have him, but his heart needs to be in it.”

    Earlier in the week, Balogun told Sky Sports he was yet to decide on his future but has aspirations of playing at the highest level.

    “My international future is not decided yet in terms of who I’ll play for,” he said. “But of course I want to play international football at the highest level, in the World Cups, and I want to compete at the highest level.

    “I want to put myself in positions where I’m performing in front of millions of people.”