TIG Post

Author: Andy Ogbarmey-Tettey

  • Kuami Eugene releases another banger ‘I Feel Nice’  

    Ghanaian afrobeat and afro pop singer Kuami Eugene has dropped his latest single christened, ‘I Feel Nice’.

    This song marks the third single from EMPIRE’s new compilation album ‘Where We Come From (VOL. 1)’.

    Kuami Eugene’s ‘I Feel Nice’ is a celebration of the explosion of African music into mainstream airwaves.

    According to the afrobeat singer, he wants his fans to enjoy life like he “enjoyed making this music.”

    “You attract the energy that you give off. Spread good vibes. Think positively. What inspired the song is the vibe that we all have when we’re in the studio together. And I was thinking about how close it’s getting to Christmas and Holiday times, how excited they will be. I was also thinking about how nice I would want people to feel when they listen to this music. So I was in a nice mood myself, and I think that’s actually what helps with the vibe when creating I Feel Nice. The song is ultimately about how people need to forget their troubles in life and focus on the fun part for a while,” he explained.

    EMPIRE is the top label in Nigeria and this compilation project is a body of work that’s set to highlight the rising talent from their ever-growing roster on the continent. The first single from the project, ‘Cough,’ by Kizz Daniel dropped on 10/14 and is currently #2 on the Global Shazam chart.

    Listen to the new song here: https://music.empi.re/WWCF

    The album was created during the writing camp at EMPIRE’s headquarters in San Francisco directly following their first showcase “The New Africa” during the second night of SXSW. During the writing camp, the crowd saw performances by BNXN FKA Buju, Cheque, Fireboy DML, June Freedom, L.A.X. Wande Coal, and other trailblazers signed to the label. Artists set to be spotlighted on the upcoming project include Fireboy DML, Olamide, BXNX fka BUJU, Black Sherif, Kizz Daniel, L.A.X, and more.

    “The energy that each record brings is infectious, magical, and I can’t wait for the world to hear Where We Come From,” said Tina Davis, EMPIRE SVP A&R

    EMPIRE globalized their existing success in America by further highlighting the accomplishments of Nigerian artists like Fireboy DML, Olamide and Asake. Named as the top label in Nigeria after only one year of its creation, EMPIRE holds the title by market share and as the top music company with the most collective No. 1’s in Nigeria by TurnTable Charts, the Billboard equivalent in Africa.

    Furthermore, artists across EMPIRE’s roster dominate the Top 35 songs on Apple Music’s ‘Nigeria Top Songs’ chart and held the #1 Top Single for over 17 weeks on TurnTable Charts.

    The artist division has seen much success with Fireboy DML becoming the first African artist to perform at the 2022 BET Awards, Kizz Daniel breaking records as most streamed artist on Boomplay, KiDi going platinum in India with touch it featuring multi-platinum recording artist Tyga, and Black Sheriff gaining 75+ million audio streams for “Kwaku the Traveller” in just one month.

    “Africa is rich with some of the most talented creatives in the world. This compilation reflects EMPIRE’s continued commitment to Community and Culture. This body of work is the epitome of unity, community, and culture. I look forward to the world’s continued embrace of African culture.” says Sak Pase, EMPIRE VP A&R.

    ABOUT KUAMI EUGENE:

    Kuami Eugene is a fast-rising Ghanaian highlife, afrobeats, and afro-pop singer. He started off as a contestant on the MTN Hitmaker, a talent show in Ghana that gives a platform to upcoming artists to showcase their musical talents. After a string of hit songs such as ‘Single,’ ‘Boom Bang Bang,’ and ‘Confusion,’ Kuami picked up the ‘Best new Artiste of The Year ‘and ‘Highlife Artist of The Year’ at the Vodafone Ghana Music Awards in 2018.

    In 2019 he picked up ‘Producer of The Year,’ ‘Highlife Artist of The Year,’ and ‘Album of The Year’ for his debut album RockStar. He has finally crowned ‘Artist of the Year’ in 202 at the Vodafone Ghana Music Awards. He released his second studio album Son Of Africa.

    ABOUT EMPIRE:

    Founded in 2010 by Bay Area native Ghazi Shami, EMPIRE is currently leading through its innovative approach to the digital music era across its label, distribution, and publishing arms. Ghazi has been recognized for his work in Billboard’s 2021 Indie Power Players list, Billboard’s 2021 R&B/Hip-Hop Power Players, as well as Billboard’s 2022 Power List.

    With its focus on early-stage artist development, the San Francisco-based company has been instrumental in launching the careers of multi-platinum, Grammy Award-winning Anderson. Paak, BLEU, Key Glock, Young Dolph, XXXTENACION, KingVon, and more.

    Through crafting bespoke deals that are always in favor of the artist, EMPIRE is able to form a true partnership with each artist and label on its roster. Coupled with EMPIRE’s unique software for analytics, recoupment, and royalties, which is available to every partner, the company offers a level of transparency unprecedented in the music industry.

  • Check out who provides forecast of earthquakes, earth tremors in Ghana

    Ghana was hit by an earth tremor on Monday, December 12. This affected parts of its capital, Accra.

    Some places affected include Adabraka, Gbawe, McCarthy hill and Mallam.

    Many panicked and left their office spaces as a result. Many, since the incident have asked which institutions is supposed to inform Ghanaians on earthquakes and earth tremors.

    It is the work of the Ghana Geological Survey Authority.

    The Ghana Geological Survey Authority was established as an Authority of the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources in accordance with Ghana Geological Service Act, 2016 (Act 928). to advise, promote and research on geoscientific issues concerning mineral resources, groundwater, environment, geo-hazards and land use planning to support sustainable economic development in Ghana.

    Functions of the Authority

    • Advise the Government on matters related to geology, geo-hazards and the search for and exploitation and development of mineral resources in the country;
    • Conduct geological, geochemical, geophysical, seismological, hydrological, geochemical, and geo-environmental survey, mineral exploration, systematic mapping of rocks and other geological or geoscience materials including soil and clays of the country including its offshore areas;
    • Develop and maintain a National Seismic Network to monitor earthquakes, tsunamis and blasts that have the potential to impact negatively on persons and property in the country and for optimum land-use planning;
    • Serve as a national repository for geoscientific data and information generated by public and private entities including mining and mineral exploration companies which operate in the country;
    • Conduct site or foundation investigations and issue certified reports prior to major construction works or projects that have the potential to impact on the subsurface structure, socio-economic, cultural and aesthetic environment;
    • Conduct ground surveys or airborne surveys, take samples and make boring necessary for the conduct of investigations and preparation of relevant reports to assist with national development;
    • Liaise with relevant public agencies involved in land-use planning for sustainable use of the special environment in Ghana;
    • Perform the functions and undertake investigations that the Minister may assign to the Authority;
    • Perform any other functions conferred on it by this Act or that are ancillary to the achievement of the objectives of the Authority.

    It is not the role of the Ghana Meteorological Agency, as has been pointed out.

    OUR RESPONSIBILITIES

    We provide:

    • Public weather forecast on daily basis (national weather) on radio and television
    • Collect, process, store and disseminate meteorological information
    • Undertake collaborative work with Agricultural Agencies and others on meteorological related matters and provide expert advice
    • Provide expert advice on wetlands including birds sanctuaries.
    • Provide meteorological information to meet international set standards
    • Render other meteorological services on routine/requests.

     

  • We don’t report on earthquakes – Ghana Meteorological Agency

    The Ghana Meteorological Agency has informed Ghanaians that its outfit was not established to provide and educate Ghanaians on earth movements.

    “Nobody asked but @GhanaMet DOES NOT provide forecast on earthquakes or earth tremors,” it tweeted on Monday.

    This comes at a time when parts of Accra were hit by an earth tremor, a relatively small or short-lived movement of the earth’s surface caused by the same forces that produce earthquakes.

    Some areas that were affected on Monday morning, December 12, include Adabraka, Gbawe, McCarthy hill and Mallam.

    Although the Ghana Meteorological Agency revealed what it does not do, it failed to inform Ghanaians which institution does.

    Its failure to point out which institution does left some Ghanaians agitated. They questioned why the Agency commented on the matter without seeking to educate the public.

    As part of its roles, the Ghana Meteorological Agency publishes weather forecast on daily basis (national weather) on radio and television, as well as collects, processes, stores and disseminates meteorological information

    Checks by The Independent Ghana reveal that it is the work of the Ghana Geological Survey Authority to educate citizens on earth movements.

    One of the functions of the Ghana Geological Survey Authority is to “Develop and maintain a National Seismic Network to monitor earthquakes, tsunamis and blasts that have the potential to impact negatively on persons and property in the country and for optimum land-use planning.”

     

  • Earth tremor hits parts of Accra

    Parts of Ghana’s capital, Accra, have been hit by an earth tremor.

    Earth tremor is a relatively small or short-lived movement of the earth’s surface caused by the same forces that produce earthquakes, according to Collins dictionary.

    It is reported that two seismic waves were felt on Monday morning, December 12, 2022.

    Some places affected include Adabraka, Gbawe, McCarthy hill and Mallam.

    Many Ghanaians have taken to Twitter to share their experience. Others seem ignorant about the incident.

    With many being puzzled, the Ghana Meteorological Agency has informed Ghanaians that their outfit is not set up to provide information on earth movement.

    The Agency did not indicate which institution is mandated to. However, some Ghanaians have pointed to the Ghana Geological Survey Authority.

    One of the functions of the Ghana Geological Survey Authority is to “Develop and maintain a National Seismic Network to monitor earthquakes, tsunamis and blasts that have the potential to impact negatively on persons and property in the country and for optimum land-use planning.”

     

  • National cathedral should be built to save Akufo-Addo from shame – Okyenehene

    Okyenhene Osagyefo Amoatia Ofori Panin II has requested Nananom of the Abuakwa Traditional Area’s assistance in mobilizing funds to complete the construction of Ghana’s National Cathedral.

    He added that the cathedral’s construction will shield President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo from embarrassment.

    “[The President] has to glorify God and complete that building to show his appreciation to what God has done for him and that he appreciates it.”

    When completed, he claimed, the National Cathedral will serve as a gathering place for Christians from near and far, allowing them to learn everything there is to know about their faith without having to travel to Israel.

    The Okyenhene made these remarks when the Board of Trustees of the National Cathedral of Ghana paid a courtesy call on him at Kyebi over the weekend.

    The Board was at the Okyenhene’s palace to seek his support for the project.

    Board member Dr Joyce Aryee said the controversies surrounding the project is not surprising due to the aggression of “darkness” against the “light” anytime a Christian project is to be built.

    She said the first traditional authority to be visited is the Okyenhene, asking for support from the chiefs and people of Okyeman.

  • Ronaldo is ‘fine’ after Portugal World Cup exit, Pepe says

    Following Cristiano Ronaldo’s emotional outburst following Portugal’s shocking World Cup quarterfinal loss to Morocco on Saturday, Pepe says his colleague is “fine.”

    After Ronaldo’s irate response to being substituted against South Korea in the final group game, Fernando Santos, the head coach, decided to leave him out of the starting lineup for the second straight game.

    After a towering header from Youssef En-Nesyri gave Morocco the lead, Portugal was eliminated from the tournament despite Ronaldo’s introduction shortly after the break.

    Ronaldo experienced a difficult reaction to the defeat, crying as he left the field. On Sunday, he posted on social media that he had given up on Portugal’s “most ambitious dream” of winning the World Cup.

    Although Ronaldo postponed making a decision regarding his future with the national team, Pepe believes the striker deserves recognition for his accomplishments while wearing the Portugal jersey.

    “Ronaldo is fine,” Pepe told reporters after arriving back in Lisbon. “He’s our Portuguese flag. He reaches all parts of the world.

    “He gave us his contribution when he was called. We have to thank him and all his team-mates who did their best to be available for the coach.”

    Despite Portugal head coach Fernando Santos’ contract running until 2024, it is rumoured he may step down after this World Cup disappointment.

    Asked about Santos’ future, Pepe explained: “I’m a player, I don’t have to talk about it. I’m not going to go down that path.

    “Unfortunately, we didn’t achieve the goal we wanted. We tried to give everything to honour our country.

    “It’s football. There are these things. We have to learn from what happened so that the future is better for us.”

    Portugal’s next match is against Liechtenstein in their opening Euro 2024 qualifier on March 23.

  • France chief wants Deschamps to stay after World Cup

    According to Noel Le Graet, the president of the French Football Federation, Didier Deschamps will determine if he will continue to serve as the head coach of France after Qatar 2022.

    After winning 103 caps during his playing career, Deschamps took over as France manager in 2012 and has since guided Les Bleus to a World Cup victory as well as the Euro 2016 final.

    His French team defeated England on Saturday to advance to the World Cup semifinals in Qatar, maintaining their chances of being the first team to win the tournament back-to-back since Brazil in 1962.

    After the competition, Deschamps’ contract is set to end, and Zinedine Zidane, the former head coach of Real Madrid, is reportedly in the running to replace him.

    Le Graet is optimistic that Deschamps will decide to stay in charge.

    “We are lucky to have a good coach [Deschamps], good technical staff,” Le Graet told L’Equipe. “The players need to be reassured, we really have a team of high quality managers around them.

    “Didier Deschamps has not lost his touch. He exudes happiness, the players too, it shows.

    “The question of extending is totally up to him. Finding a coach of this quality is not easy. It is he who decides, I hope he will say yes.

    “But it still deserves, especially on his part, a reflection.”

     

     

  • Lloris tells France ‘there’s something really special we can achieve’

    When France takes on Morocco in the World Cup semifinals, Hugo Lloris is adamant that they will need to use “all our might, all our energy.”

    Following a nail-biting quarterfinal victory over England on Saturday, Les Bleus advanced to the semifinals for the first time since Brazil in 1998. Olivier Giroud’s late header was the difference in the match.

    Lloris had a memorable day because he broke Lilian Thuram’s record of 142 caps for France by making his 143rd international appearance.

    As attention shifts to the tournament’s surprise performer, Morocco, who became the first African country to reach the semi-finals after upsetting Portugal, the skipper was given a commemorative shirt by Didier Deschamps.

    “[I am] still proud, still honoured to wear the shirt of Les Bleus, even after 143 appearances,” Lloris said in a video posted on France’s official Twitter account.

    “I really want to thank the team, the staff, the entire management for making this game so special. Beating England in the quarter-finals of the World Cup, it will remain a special memory for me, but also for my family who were present.

    “Now, we’ll prepare well for this semi-final against Morocco. We’ll need all our strength, all our energy knowing that there’s something really special we can achieve.

    “I think we’re all aware of this, but we’ll continue to be calm and collected. But it has to come from [the stomach].”

    A customized shirt was also given to Antoine Griezmann, whose precise cross for Giroud’s game-winning goal against England marked a record-breaking 28th assist for Les Bleus.

    The Atletico Madrid forward urged his teammates to stay focused on winning the global championship for the first time since Brazil in 1962, even though he feels Kylian Mbappe (18) would soon surpass him.

    “Kylian only needs 10 assists to reach 28, so I’m going to enjoy this moment!” he laughed. “There are still two games left, we can do it. Let’s concentrate, be focused and enjoy.”

  • World Cup: ‘I still haven’t learned to lose’ – Neymar admits

    Neymar has admitted that he “still hurts like hell from loss” as a result of Brazil’s World Cup elimination.

    Favorites entering the tournament Croatia eliminated Brazil from the World Cup 4-2 on penalties after the game had tied 1-1 after extra time.

    Neymar, who scored an outstanding goal in extra time but chose not to take a penalty kick in the 4-2 penalty shootout loss, wrote on Instagram on Saturday that the defeat had left him “psychologically destroyed” and reiterated that sentiment in a second post on Sunday after arriving back in his native country.

    “On Brazilian soil… still hurts like hell from loss, we were so close, so close,” Neymar wrote. “Unfortunately or fortunately I still haven’t learned to lose. Defeats make me stronger, but they hurt me too much and I’m still not used to it.

    “Anyway, we have to move on… life moves us on, even if it hurts and the hurt takes time to heal, we have to move on.

    “Once again I want to thank the Brazilian people for their support and affection. Hearing from you that we fought, delivered until the end comforts a little of our pain.

    “Thank you Qatar for everything. The cup was beautiful and she had to be from Brazil to crown it all, but by God’s destiny it wasn’t.”

     

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    A post shared by NJ 🇧🇷 (@neymarjr)

    Neymar, 30, has been rumored to be playing in his final World Cup, and after the match he was hesitant to say whether he will continue to play for his nation.

    He added on Instagram: “We keep going… Now it’s to turn off the key, take advantage of family and friends, recharge energies because dealing with this defeat will be very difficult, it still hurts me A LOT! FAITH.”

    Neymar also reserved a special ‘open letter’ post for 61-year-old Brazil head coach Tite, who has stepped down from the role following the World Cup after six-and-a-half years in charge.

    “I knew you as a coach and I already knew you were very good but as a person you are MUCH BETTER!,” Neymar wrote. “I come here to openly thank you for everything, all the teachings you’ve given us… and there were so many.

    “You will always be one of the best coaches I’ve ever had or will have, I will always lift you up. We had beautiful moments but we also had moments that hurt us a lot and the latter will hurt us for a long time.

    “You deserved to be crowned with this cup. We all deserved it for everything we did and for everything we gave up to try to achieve our biggest dream. But God didn’t want it that way, patience. God has given us EVERYTHING!”

     

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  • Southgate ‘conflicted’ on future with England after World Cup exit

    Gareth Southgate, the manager of England, is “conflicted” as he considers staying in the position after the team lost to France in the World Cup quarterfinals.

    After Saturday’s 2-1 loss to Les Bleus, Southgate made it plain that he would take his time making a decision about his future. The Football Association has left that decision up to Southgate.

    The England manager has been in charge since 2016 and is under contract until December 2024. He guided the team to the 2018 World Cup semifinals and the Euro 2020 final.

    “I’ve found large parts of the last 18 months difficult,” Southgate said. “For everything that I’ve loved about the last few weeks, I still have… how things have been for 18 months.

    “What’s been said and what’s been written. The night at Wolves. There’s lots of things in my head that’s really conflicted at the moment.

    “What I want to make sure, if it’s the right thing to stay, is that I’ve definitely got the energy to do that. I don’t want to be four or five months down the line thinking: ‘I’ve made the wrong call’. It’s too important for everybody to get that wrong.”

     Southgate has transformed England since their disappointing Euro 2016 last-16 exit to Iceland, becoming a genuine title contender with a new wave of exciting talent.

    The ex-England defender had no timeframe on when he would make a decision on his future, stating he was eager to overcome the emotion of the defeat before making a call.

    Gareth Southgate, the manager of England, is “conflicted” as he considers staying in the position after the team lost to France in the World Cup quarterfinals.

    After Saturday’s 2-1 loss to Les Bleus, Southgate made it plain that he would take his time making a decision about his future. The Football Association has left that decision up to Southgate.

    The England manager has been in charge since 2016 and is under contract until December 2024. He guided the team to the 2018 World Cup semifinals and the Euro 2020 final.

    Southgate added that he was not sure when he was ever going to get over England’s latest World Cup exit, but spoke with a sense of pride about their performance.

    “I don’t think I have got over the last one [Euro 2020] but this feels a little bit different because when we reflect on what we’ve done, I’m not sure what more we could have done or given,” he said.

    “I think we’ve given a really good performance against a top team. It was a significant psychological step for those players.

    “I have been involved in nights where we have played top teams and been on the back foot for the majority of the game and been dominated. We wanted to be bold in the tournament and I think we went toe-to-toe with them.

    “We have said we want to be competitive all the way through with England and we are, I believe, in that top table … the last three tournaments, we have restored credibility.

    “The rest of the world look at us as a good side, but we are here to win, and we haven’t won.”

  • Brazil approached Guardiola to coach national team – Ronaldo reveals

    Ronaldo stated before Pep Guardiola renewed his contract with Manchester City, the Brazilian national team asked him to become their new coach.

    The Selecao is getting ready for life without Tite, who led them to the World Cup quarterfinals before they lost to Croatia on Friday in a heartbreaking penalty shootout.

    Regardless of how the five-time champions performed in Qatar, the 61-year-old stated in February that he would step down from his position.

    Former Barcelona and Bayern Munich head coach Guardiola decided to prolong his tenure at the Etihad Stadium until 2025, according to legendary striker Ronaldo, who claims the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) had spoken with him.

    “There was interest in Guardiola; it was discussed with Guardiola’s coaching staff, but he preferred to renew his contract with City,” the 2002 World Cup winner said on his YouTube channel.’

    “Perhaps it would be difficult for the CBF to reach an agreement; he is the highest-paid coach in the world.”

    Ronaldo believes the CBF should now turn their attention to the “Brazilian Guardiola” in Fernando Diniz – the Fluminense head coach renowned for his attractive possession-based style of play.

    “Perhaps Diniz would be an attraction for the Brazilian national team,” he added. “He’s a guy who plays well, puts on a show.

    “It is a very important decision for the next cycle. The sooner you present the name and start working on the philosophy of the coach, the better it will be. And we’ll see. I’m curious. I think big names are coming here.”

  • Morocco deserve semi-final spot, Fernandes says

    When Portugal‘s World Cup run come to an end on Saturday due to the Atlas Lions, Bruno Fernandes recognised Morocco as deserving World Cup semi-finalists.

    Inflicting yet another upset at Al Thumama Stadium, Morocco became the first African team to ever make it to the tournament’s last four thanks to Youssef En-goal, Nesyri’s which was scored only in the game.

    The result incited an outraged response from some Portugal players, with Pepe calling the selection of Argentinian referee Facundo Tello “awful” after Tello decided against giving a penalty when Fernandes fell down under a challenge from Achraf Hakimi.

    In the immediate aftermath of the defeat, the playmaker concurred with Pepe’s assertions, claiming that the referees had “tipped the field” against Fernando Santos’ team.

    However, the Manchester United man struck a different tone when he took to social media on Sunday, praising Morocco’s display and outlining his pride in Portugal’s efforts.

    “It’s difficult to express in a few words everything we felt yesterday after the game ended,” he wrote on Twitter. “Our dream fell apart when we did everything to make it end differently.

    “It’s sad and painful because representing our team means much more than just playing football.

    “Despite the elimination, I am very proud to be Portuguese and even more proud of all those who represented our country with me in this World Cup.

    “I would also like to congratulate the Moroccan team for the great game and for deservedly qualifying for the semi-finals of the World Cup.”

    Portugal’s defeat to Walid Regragui’s men was their first at the quarter-final stage of a World Cup, with the Selecao having progressed from their two previous last-eight ties at the tournament.

  • Clemente criticises Luis Enrique departure as Spain boss

    Javier Clemente, a former La Roja head coach, said that Spain’s choice to fire Luis Enrique after their World Cup departure was “yet another mistake.”

    Two days after Morocco eliminated the 2010 world champions on penalties in the round of 16, the former Barcelona manager’s resignation was officially announced on Thursday.

    After the finals, Luis Enrique’s contract was about to expire, and the Royal Football Federation (RFEF) decided not to renew it. Instead, they named existing Under-21 manager Luis de la Fuente as the new manager.

    Former Spain manager Clemente believes Luis Enrique shouldn’t be held accountable for his team’s second straight last-16 defeat after losing to host nation Russia at the same level four years prior. Clemente coached Spain at the World Cup in 1994 and 1998.

    “I think it is not a success to have dispensed with Luis Enrique as coach,” he told El Programa de Ortega. “This is yet another mistake.

    “Luis Enrique is a very good coach, with his ideas, with his personality, friendly, pleasant, man of the house. The problem of the Spanish team is a problem of Spanish football.

    “[Morocco] stood up and closed well behind, and the players did not have the temperament to overcome it.

    “You always talk about the coaches, but when you play badly, you also have to talk about the players. Is Luis Enrique to blame [for the penalties]? Not really.

    The RFEF is expected to officially announce De La Fuente as Luis Enrique’s successor on Monday.

    The 61-year-old has spent close to a decade coaching Spain’s age-grade sides, winning the Under-19 European Championship in 2015 and the Under-21 equivalent in 2021.

    He also took charge of the Under-23 side at the Beijing Olympics last year and won a silver medal following defeat to Brazil in the final.

    “You don’t imagine he’ll end up as a coach,” said Clemente, who coached De La Fuente at Athletic Bilbao during the early stages of his playing career.

    “I think it’s good, he’s been in the Under-21s, and he’s had good results. He’s done well, he already knows the kids. I don’t know how he coaches, but I tell you he’s very good because he’s a friend of mine.”

  • Give World Cup spots to Euros and Copa America winners – Barella urges FIFA

    The Azzurri should have qualified for the World Cup “by right,” according to Italy player Nicolo Barella, after winning the European Championship.

    Italy was eliminated after a shocking 1-0 loss to North Macedonia in a play-off qualification match in March. Despite being nearly completely dominant, Italy let up the game’s lone goal in stoppage time.

    It resulted in Italy, the four-time champions, missing out on two straight World Cups—a first in their history—and Inter star Barella has felt reluctant to watch the competition because of his grievance that he should be taking part.

    In fact, he advocated for giving World Cup spots automatically to the most recent champions of Europe and South America. Unless they were also included in such an agreement, confederations from other continents would probably not be too happy about such a move.

    Italy, who prevailed in the postponed Euro 2020 finals last year, is still in disbelief at its World Cup qualifying misstep.

    “I haven’t seen half a match of the World Cup yet, I can’t understand the feeling I feel,” Barella said.

    “They say that the pitch is always right, but for me in this case it gave an unfair response. Today it was our turn, maybe tomorrow it will be the turn of others: whoever wins a European Championship or a Copa America deserves to go to a World Cup by right.”

    The statement made by Barella is comparable to one made last month by Italy’s head coach, Roberto Mancini. Mancini added that every continent’s champions need to have an automatic berth in the World Cup.

    Barella can see himself staying at Inter through the 2026 competition, which will be co-hosted by Mexico, Canada, and the United States.

    Barella, who has a contract with Inter that expires in 2026, has been linked to a number of teams, including Chelsea and Liverpool from the Premier League.

    “We have to get there first,” he said of the next World Cup, “but yeah, I see myself on the pitch in 2026 still as an Inter player.”

    Whether Milan Skriniar remains at Inter for so long must be in major doubt.

    Paris Saint-Germain wanted him in the last transfer window and may come back in January, and the 27-year-old Slovakian centre-back is due to lapse out of contract at the end of the season.

    Barella will let Skriniar make his own decisions about the future, insisting others should not play any part.

    “I will never allow myself to give him advice,” Barella said. “Everyone makes their choices. Then, at the end of his career, we will see if they were right or wrong. I hope he stays because in addition to being incredibly strong, he is a brother.”

  • FIFA to feature anti-discrimination messages to mark International Human Rights Day

    In honor of International Human Rights Day, FIFA will broadcast anti-discrimination messages during the World Cup quarterfinal games on Friday and Saturday.

    The #NoDiscrimination hashtag will be shown on the enormous screens and LED boards within the stadiums thanks to a partnership between FIFA and the World Health Organization (WHO).

    The World Cup in Qatar has drawn significant criticism for the host country’s standards of human rights, particularly for its attitudes toward same-sex marriage and its treatment of the migrant workers who built the tournament’s infrastructure.

    The Athletic reported on Wednesday that a Filipino man in his early 40s passed away while working at the Saudi Arabian base during the group round.

    When questioned on the incident the chief executive of Qatar 2022, Nasser Al Khater, told the BBC: “Death is a natural part of life, whether it’s at work or in your sleep.”

    FIFA also declined to comment on the reports, with its secretary general Fatma Samoura saying to Reuters: “We’ve already elaborated… about what we are doing in Qatar.

    “We are talking about things we have already discussed for months and months, time and time again.”

    However, FIFA announced its decision to observe International Human Rights Day on December 10, stating in a press statement that discrimination is one of the most widespread types of abuse and violation of human rights.

    “FIFA and the World Health Organization (WHO) will mark International Human Rights Day on Saturday, 10 December by reinforcing the message that there is no place for discrimination of any kind, either in football or in society in general.

    “During the FIFA World Cup quarter-final matches on 9 and 10 December, the #NoDiscrimination message will feature on giant screens and LEDs in stadium and, as during the whole of the tournament, on the captains’ armbands.”

  • Morocco ‘would be delighted’ if Ronaldo is on Portugal bench – Regragui

    Walid Regragui, the coach of Morocco, hopes to see Cristiano Ronaldo on the bench once more despite the fact that Portugal may have looked better in the round of 16 without him.

    After getting into a heated dispute with Portugal’s head coach during their final World Cup group match against South Korea, Ronaldo was benched by Fernando Santos.

    Portugal defeated Switzerland 6-1 despite the absence of Ronaldo, 37, who was replaced by Goncalo Ramos, who scored an incredible hat-trick.

    When his team faces Morocco in the quarterfinals, Santos will undoubtedly field the same lineup once more, but Regragui would rather not.

    “I don’t know if Ronaldo will start. I hope he won’t,” Regragui said. “As a coach, I know he’s one of the best players in history. I’d be delighted if he didn’t play.

    “But we’re not going to focus on Portugal. They’re hungry, they also want to get into the history books.

    “We’re going to have more supporters in the stadium, and we can do it.”

    Throughout his pre-match news conference on Friday, Regragui outlined his ambition to make history, with Morocco already enjoying their best run at a World Cup.

    Discussing pre-tournament predictions that had Morocco failing in the group stage, he said: “They all thought they knew who was going to win the World Cup. We are here, too.

    “Our players are hungry. We’re not satisfied with what we’ve done so far.”

     

  • Bastoni discloses Tottenham contact, hopeful for Skriniar stay

    Tottenham expressed interest in signing Alessandro Bastoni during the previous transfer window, but the defender is happy with his decision to stay at Inter.

    As Simone Inzaghi’s team narrowly missed defending the Scudetto previous season, Bastoni made 31 Serie A appearances and helped the team record eight shutouts.

    Numerous teams have praised the 23-year-play old’s and ability to carry the ball out of defense, including Tottenham, who are supposedly coached by Bastoni’s former Nerazzurri manager Antonio Conte.

    Speaking to Corriere dello Sport, Bastoni revealed Spurs made concrete attempts to lure him to the Premier League, saying: “There was some contact, but I’m happy I stayed at Inter.”

    Inter have disappointed so far this season and entered the World Cup break sitting fifth in Serie A, 11 points behind runaway leaders Napoli after 15 games.

    However, Bastoni believes Inzaghi’s men must aim high when club football resumes in the coming weeks, adding: “We are aware of the strength and values of this team.

    “Our goal is to always go all the way in all the competitions in which we participate. That’s why the disappointment would be great if we were to win nothing.”

    While Paris Saint-Germain is still mentioned as a potential destination for Milan Skriniar, Bastoni is not the first Inter center-back to be linked with a transfer abroad.

    At the conclusion of the current campaign, Skriniar’s Inter contract is set to expire, therefore Bastoni is hopeful that his defensive partner will sign a new one.

    “I can only advise him to do what he thinks is right. We are all great and everyone has to make their own assessments, together with their family,” Bastoni said.

    “The important thing is that he is convinced of the final choice. I can’t judge, I only hope he stays here.”

     

  • Diaz suffers setback in Liverpool training

    Jurgen Klopp has announced that Liverpool winger Luis Diaz will undergo testing after encountering a setback in his effort to recover from a knee injury.

    Diaz has been sidelined ever since the injury he suffered in Liverpool’s 3-2 loss to Premier League champions Arsenal in October, but he was recently added to their team for a training camp in Dubai.

    The Colombian winger, who has made 12 appearances for Liverpool this season and has contributed two assists and four goals, wasn’t initially anticipated to take part fully in team practice before to the start of the Premier League later this month.

    However, according to a statement issued by Liverpool on Friday, Diaz had to skip two training sessions and will also be absent for the Reds’ friendly match against Lyon on Sunday.

    The 25-year-old Diaz would reportedly return to England after feeling pain in the same knee, and the club stated that Diaz’s ailment would need additional evaluation.

    “It’s all good with the boys who are here,” manager Jurgen Klopp said. “What’s not good is we have to see with Lucho.

    “He felt something and we need to have further assessment there, but apart from that they all look really, really good.”

    Before returning to competitive play on December 22 against Manchester City in the EFL Cup last-16, Liverpool will play friendlies against Lyon and Milan.

    Prior to their next match in the top flight against Aston Villa on December 26, the Reds are now sixth in the Premier League, seven points outside of the Champions League spots.


  • Ronaldo did not ask to leave Portugal camp in Qatar, Santos says

    Although Cristiano Ronaldo has never requested to leave the Portugal World Cup team, manager Fernando Santos did acknowledge that the veteran striker was unhappy about being benched for the match against Switzerland.

    The 37-year-old was not included for Portugal’s 6-1 victory over Switzerland in the round of 16 to advance to Saturday’s quarterfinal matchup with Morocco.

    It was categorically refuted that Santos and Ronaldo had a huge falling out and that the latter had threatened to leave.

    Santos said: “We had a conversation. I don’t do that with all the players but he’s the captain of the squad. You know what he represents for Portuguese football, for the Portuguese people and for the national team.

    “It was on the day of the match after lunch. I explained to him why he would not play and said in terms of our strategy ‘I think it would be better if you did not start. I think the game will be difficult and I will save you for the second half’.

    “Cristiano was obviously not very happy as he has always been a starting player. But we had a normal conversation in which I explained my points and he accepted them.

    “He never told me he wanted to leave the national team.”

    Santos frequently has a frustrated expression, but the persistent inquiries about the former Manchester United and Real Madrid great really baffled him.

    “It’s high time we stopped with this conversation and look at what he did in the match,” he added.

    “He warmed up with his colleagues, he celebrated all the goals and he was the one who invited the players to applaud the fans at the end. It’s time for you [the media] to leave Cristiano alone.

    “Ninety per cent of the questions are about Cristiano.”

    Ronaldo’s replacement against Switzerland, Goncalo Ramos, scored a hat-trick as part of a team that displayed more verve and attacking threat than in previous games in Qatar.

    Santos refused to confirm whether Ramos would keep his place against Morocco or if Ronaldo would return.

    “Just because a team wins doesn’t mean you can’t change it,” he said. “The team we play on Saturday will present different challenges, they are a very different team to Switzerland.

    “They are well-organised with many players who play for the biggest clubs in the world. This will not be an easy game.”

    Playmaker Joao Felix was another who shone against the Swiss, arguably playing his best game of the tournament. Asked if he felt the shackles had been released with Ronaldo absent, he said: “I don’t think it’s mandatory to pass to Cristiano. We try to pass to the player that’s available.

    “Independent of Cristiano being on the field, we have the same tactics, the ones we’ve been using for all four games. He has skills that other players have and vice-versa. We, as a team, have our own identity and we focus on that.”

     

  • Messi’s best international moments for Argentina

    When considered separately, Lionel Messi’s international career with Argentina has been extraordinarily successful.

    He is, after all, the player with the most caps for his country as well as La Albiceleste’s all-time leading scorer.

    Messi has had such success at the club level, first with Barcelona and most recently with Paris Saint-Germain, that his international career does, nevertheless, seem quite insignificant in contrast.

    His journey to Argentina has undoubtedly included highs and lows. Major awards have been received, but there have also been a lot of heartbreaks and finals defeats.

    We look back on Messi’s international career’s high points as he makes what may be his final try to win the World Cup.

    Sent off on debut

    Messi was the focus of an international dispute between Argentina and Spain when he was a youngster.

    At the 2005 South American Youth Championship, he opted to play for his country and did so, scoring the game-winning goal against Brazil in the championship match.

    Later that year, in a friendly match against Hungary, Messi made his full debut for his country. The 18-year-old player replaced another player in the second half, but he did not have the impact that everyone had hoped for.

    His debut lasted just two minutes before he was dismissed for striking the full-back with his arm while trying to avoid Hungarian defender Vilmos Vanczak.

    Copa America losses

    Despite a rocky start to his international career, Messi quickly cemented his place as a fixture in the Argentina team.

    He participated in the 2006 World Cup and started for a team that was predicted to win the 2007 Copa America. He would win the award for the best young player, but Argentina fell to Brazil 3-0 in the championship game.

    In 2015, eight years later, they made it to another Copa America championship game. La Albiceleste lost a penalty shootout against Chile 4-1 after a 0-0 tie, with Messi scoring the sole goal.

    The next year, the competition was organized once more to commemorate its centennial.

    Again Argentina met Chile in the final and again the match ended 0-0 and went to penalties. This time Chile won the shootout 4-2, with the talisman missing the opening kick.

    Olympic champion

    Lionel Messi was a gold medal winner at the Olympics
    Lionel Messi was a gold medal winner at the Olympics

    One year after that first Copa America final defeat, Messi tasted international success at senior level but only after the intervention of his club manager.

    Barcelona did not want him to play for Argentina at the 2008 Olympics as it clashed with their Champions League qualifiers.

    They even took legal action to prevent him joining the squad until the newly-appointed head coach Pep Guardiola persuaded the club to relent.

    Messi starred in a team that went all the way to the final in Beijing, beating Brazil in the semi-finals.

    A 1-0 victory against Nigeria secured gold for Argentina — four years after being crowned champions at the Athens Olympics.

    World Cup defeat

    The Copa America is not the only international tournament where Messi has suffered plenty of heartbreak.

    Argentina were knocked out of both the 2006 and 2010 World Cups at the quarter-final stage by Germany. In the latter tournament, a tactically naive team managed by Diego Maradona were thrashed 4-0.

    Four years later in Brazil, the pressure was on Messi to repeat the accomplishments of Maradona as a player and lead the nation to World Cup success.

    He scored four goals to help the team through to the 2014 final, where they would once again play Germany.

    For the third World Cup in a row, the Germans beat Argentina. Messi spurned several scoring opportunities and Germany eventually edged it 1-0 in extra-time.

    The Golden Ball award for best player was controversially awarded to Messi but provided little consolation.

    Copa success

    Lionel Messi finally got to hold the Copa America trophy in 2021
    Lionel Messi finally got to hold the Copa America trophy in 2021

    Messi’s long streak of international heartbreak finally came to an end in 2021 at the Copa America in Brazil.

    Argentina and Colombia were meant to be co-hosts, but the coronavirus crisis saw Brazil step in. On home territory, the Selecao were hot favourites to win the tournament.

    Messi and Argentina had other ideas. This was a much less star-studded side compared to the ones that had tried and failed to win past editions and they were perhaps all the better for it.

    A defensively solid team built around their star man would beat Brazil 1-0 in the final.

    Messi was key to the victory, finishing as top scorer and being named Player of the Tournament.

  • Spain restructuring continues as Luque replaces Molina  

    By appointing Albert Luque as their new sporting director in place of Jose Molina, Spain has made additional adjustments to their coaching structure.

    Two days after losing to Morocco on penalties in the World Cup round of 16, La Roja announced that head coach Luis Enrique would be leaving.

    Luis de la Fuente, who has excelled at the Under-19 and Under-21 levels and who last year won a silver medal at the Beijing Olympics, is slated to take over the position the following week.

    The Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) has confirmed that Molina won’t be renewing his contract in January 2023, making him the most prominent person to leave his position recently.

    Francis Hernandez will collaborate with the former Spain international as Luque assumes the role of sports director.

    During Molina’s four years in the position, Spain twice advanced to the Nations League Finals and the semifinals of Euro 2020.

    At the end of March, the defending world champions will play their first Euro 2024 qualifying matches against Scotland and Norway.

  • Gillingham snatch victory against 10-man Dagenham

    Gillingham beat a determined 10-man Dagenham 3-2 in their FA Cup replay to reach the third round.

    Hakeeb Adelakun was the last-gasp hero.

    The hosts struck deep into stoppage time after the visitors had equalised. They did so late on through George Saunders.

    With a home tie against 2021 FA Cup winners Leicester awaiting in the next round, both sides had chances in a hectic start.

    There are only 14 places between the two teams and it was the non-league club who struck first.

    Matt Robinson fired home a superb 20-yard strike in the 15th minute.

    But Ipswich loanee Elkan Baggott leapt highest to level just before the half-hour mark.

    Gillingham led for the first time when Max Ehmer headed home with 13 minutes left, and two minutes later Dagenham’s Harry Phipps was sent off for a studs-up challenge on Lewis Walker.

    The visitors seemingly salvaged extra time when Saunders rounded Jake Turner and scored from a tight angle.

    But there was late heartache when Adelakun finished off a flowing counter in the fifth minute of time added on.

  • Arteta regrets Jesus injury as Arsenal weigh options

    With Gabriel Jesus apparently out for three months following knee surgery, Mikel Arteta said Arsenal would “look at the options.”

    After suffering the injury during the Selecao’s World Cup match against Cameroon in Group G, the Brazilian forward was forced to withdraw from the tournament.

    Unconfirmed rumors from Brazil claim Jesus will miss three months of action, but Premier League leaders Arsenal confirmed on Tuesday that Jesus had begun his rehabilitation program.

    The 25-year-old has been crucial to the Gunners’ successful start to the season, which has seen them lead the league after 14 games by five points.

    Only Martin Odegaard of Arsenal has scored more goals than Jesus’ five, while only Bukayo Saka and Kevin De Bruyne of Manchester City have recorded more assists in the English top division than Jesus’ five.

    Arteta indicated the team is looking into options for how to respond to the setback in the most positive way as the January transfer window draws near.

    “What it affects is who we are as a team because he gives us so much,” the Spaniard said. “So what we can do after that, when we know the timescale [of his recovery] and when we can have him back, we will look at the options and try to make the right decision.

    “I feel like my squad is really good. Unfortunately, we’ve had injuries, and we will try to see what we can do to be strong. We have players, we have a lot of accompanying players.

    “[The question is] do we have the players that can give us the performances and the consistency that we need to maintain and improve from where we are?”

    Arsenal resume their title tilt with a home clash against West Ham on December 26, having won six from six at Emirates Stadium in the league this term.

  • Messi’s legacy to be intact even without World Cup trophy, Guedioura says

    According to Adlene Guedioura, Lionel Messi does not require a World Cup victory to establish his legacy.

    Messi, a seven-time winner of the Ballon d’Or, has eight league championships and four Champions League trophies to his name.

    Messi hasn’t had much luck with Argentina’s international teams, though he did win the Copa America last year after three previous runners-up finishes.

    Messi came very close to winning the World Cup in 2014, but Mario Gotze’s extra-time winner ended up being La Albiceleste’s final heartbreak.

    Some have claimed that the 35-year-failure old’s to win international football’s greatest honor will damage his legacy in comparison to players like Pele and compatriot Diego Maradona.

    Messi may have one more chance to win the World Cup at the current tournament in Qatar, where his Argentina team will play the Netherlands in the quarterfinals on Friday.

    Guedioura is of the opinion that Messi’s legacy will not be damaged even if Argentina fails in their quest to win a third World Cup in Qatar.

    Asked if he feels the potential gap in Messi’s trophy cabinet will impact how he is remembered, the former Algeria midfielder told Stats Perform: “Not at all. We’ve enjoyed him for such a long time with [Cristiano] Ronaldo.

    “I think, of course, a title with Argentina will put him on the top of everything. But watching him in Barcelona and with Paris Saint-Germain is something special.”

    Argentina came into the tournament on a run of 36 matches unbeaten, but that streak came to a stunning end when they were beaten 2-1 by Saudi Arabia in their World Cup opener.

    La Albiceleste have steadied the ship, though, finishing top of Group C and beating Australia in the round of 16 to set up the meeting with the Netherlands.

    Despite Argentina’s improvement, Guedioura highlighted rivals Brazil as the team more likely to take the trophy back to South America, explaining: “Argentina started poorly with Saudi Arabia.

    “Maybe, it was a little accident or a little warning for them. But compared to Brazil, I feel Brazil they are stronger than Argentina.”

    Guedioura played for Algeria at the 2010 World Cup, and though his nation failed to qualify this year, fellow African sides Senegal and Morocco made it to the knockout stages, with the latter set to face Portugal in the last eight.

    The Al-Duhail midfielder thinks African nations pull together at tournaments in a way that is not replicated across other regions of the world. “This is maybe a difference when you have England or Scotland,” he observed.

    “When Scotland is not qualified, it’s like they don’t want England to do well. For us, I don’t think it’s like this. Any team that does well, all of Africa support them because they are the hope for the country and for the continent really.”

     

  • Luis Enrique receives tributes from Azpilicueta, others after Spain exit    

    Following Luis Enrique‘s resignation as head coach on Thursday, a number of Spain players paid tribute to him.

    Luis Enrique lost his job as a result of Spain’s shocking elimination from the World Cup round of 16 by Morocco on Tuesday.

    As his contract was slated to expire at the conclusion of the competition, the Royal Football Federation said on Thursday that it would not be extending it. Later, it was reported that Luis de la Fuente, who had previously been in charge of Spain’s Under-21 team, would take over.

    After the announcement, Luis Enrique’s former players thanked him, with Cesar Azpilicueta posting his congratulations on social media.

    “We had all imagined another ending after months of work, passion, dedication and commitment,” Azpilicueta posted on Instagram.

    “Thank you very much for the trust, Luis Enrique, and all the coaching staff I wish you the best in the future.”

    Luis Enrique gave Gavi his Spain debut last year, making him the youngest player in the history of La Roja at just 17 years and 62 days old.

    “I wish you luck and success in the future, you gave everything for the team and we will always be grateful to you!”

    Pedri also enjoyed his maiden international outing under the stewardship of Luis Enrique and is one of the young stars that look to have given Spain a promising future, despite the disappointment in Qatar.

    “Thank you very much for everything, Luis,” Pedri added on Instagram. “For your trust and support from the very beginning, and for always believing in and caring for this group.

    “We haven’t gotten where we wanted in this World Cup, but I’m sure the future will bring you new successes.”

  • UEFA Women’s Champions League: Real Madrid secure quarter-final spot

    Real Madrid held Chelsea to a 1-1 draw, denying them the chance to advance to the Women’s Champions League quarterfinals.

    Emma Hayes’ team, last year’s runners-up to Lyon, would have advanced out of Group A with two games remaining had they won four straight matches this season.

    At Estadio Alfredo di Stefano, Guro Reiten‘s penalty, which blasted in off goalkeeper Misa Rodriguez, negated an earlier attempt from Caroline Weir, thus they were left with a draw.

    After convincingly defeating Vllaznia 4-0, Paris Saint-Germain overtook Madrid to take second position in Group A, with Vllaznia’s elimination later confirmed.

    When PSG and Madrid square off at Parc des Princes the following week, PSG will advance with a victory thanks to goals from Kadidiatou Diani, Ramona Bachmann, and Magnaba Folquet.

    Wolfsburg, a two-time winner, is the first team to go to the quarterfinals of this season following a thrilling 4-2 victory over Roma.

    Lena Lattwein and SveindIs Jonsdottir also scored, sandwiching Ewa Pajor’s brace that brought her group stage tally to six goals, making Roma’s goals from Andressa Alves Da Silva and Sophie Roman Haug mere consolation.

    After St Polten lost to Slavia Praha in the other Group B match, the German team’s 11th appearance in the round of eight in as many continental campaigns was confirmed.

    Kristyna Ruzickova gave the Czech team their first goal of the year, but Mateja Zver’s free kick prevents them from moving on to the knockout stage.

     

  • Niger on the verge of criminalising gay relationships 

    A motion to make same-sex relationships illegal in Niger has the support of a number of parliamentarians.

    Niger has a secular government with a Muslim majority, although there is no particular rule against same-sex unions at the moment.

    Same-sex partnerships, according to the MPs, are in opposition to the populace’s religious and cultural views.

    Nana Djibou Harouna, a politician from the southern Maradi area, delivered the proposal to the Speaker of Parliament.

    She told a press conference on Thursday in the capital, Niamey, that the move was meant to protect the “rights and interest of the public”.

    Mrs Haruna described homosexuality as a “problem affecting our society”.

    She claimed that after extensive deliberations, practically all MPs as well as Nigerien citizens had endorsed the proposal.

    When the subject will be formally discussed in parliament is not yet known. What sort of sanctions they want to be included in the law is likewise unclear.

    The action was taken just a few weeks after a court in Maradi exonerated two young women of lesbianism-related charges on the grounds that there was no specific law making same-sex relationships illegal.

    After being found guilty of publishing their nude videos on social media in which they were purportedly seen in a lesbian act, they were instead sentenced to two years in prison.

  • Eight people sanctioned by EU over DR Congo violence

    Sanctions have been imposed by the European Union on a number of participants in the war in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo.

    They include Willy Ngoma, a spokesperson for the M23 rebel faction. Mr. Ngoma has remained silent.

    The M23 is held accountable for spreading unrest and insecurity in the country’s east and committing human rights violations, including sexual assault.

    More than 130 villagers were allegedly killed by the group last week, according to the UN. The M23 refuted the assertion, attributing all but eight fatalities to “stray gunfire.”

    A senior member of the Congolese army is one of individuals whose assets have been frozen and who is also prohibited from traveling.

    According to reports, between June and December of last year, the forces under his leadership committed assaults on civilians, including rapes.

    A Ugandan man accused of being a top ADF militia leader involved in arming rebels, recruiting them, and collaborating with the militant Islamic State group is also named on the list.

    Numerous armed factions are active in eastern DR Congo, many of which are vying for control of the area’s mineral wealth.

    The EU has also sanctioned a Belgian-born businessman, Alain Goetz. He’s accused of exploiting the instability to illicitly trade in natural resources.

    But the Reuters news agency reports that Mr Goetz has pulled out of the company that was allegedly involved in the trade and has never dealt with gold from DR Congo.

  • President Mbasogo starts sixth term

    The president of Equatorial Guinea has been sworn in for a sixth term, making him the head of state with the longest tenure in the world.

    80-year-old Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo took the presidential oath before to viewing a military parade.

    He said that he was the leader of all Equatorial Guineans and always will be.

    In a coup in 1979, he first took over.

    Elections since then, according to critics, have been manipulated, with the government and its allies essentially preventing the opposition from participating and controlling the media.

  • Nigerian MPs oppose cash withdrawal limits

    The execution of a recently established regulation that limits cash withdrawals has prompted Nigerian lawmakers to call the head of the nation’s central bank.

    Following the introduction of new banknotes, the program aims to encourage cashless transactions in the largest economy in Africa.

    Last week, the bank set a weekly cap on over-the-counter cash withdrawals at 100,000 naira ($225) for individuals and 500,000 naira ($1,125) for enterprises.

    ATM withdrawals were restricted to a maximum of 100,000 naira per week and 20,000 naira per day.

    The new policy takes effect from 9 January.

    Parliament resolved to have the central bank governor, Godwin Emefiele, appear before it next Thursday and have asked for the new cash withdrawal policy to be suspended.

  • No more preaching in South Africa’s new trains

    According to local media, South Africa’s passenger rail agency (Prasa) has prohibited preaching, gambling, and unauthorized trade in its new trains.

    The move is among measures meant to ensure that “one particular behavioural system of any other group cannot be imposed on other commuters on board”, the agency’s spokesperson is quoted as saying.

    Additionally, it will improve cleaning and passenger safety onboard.

    “We are doing this in an effort to ensure that there is the free passage of movement for our commuters, so that they are kept clean and safe,” she said.

    Preachers and shady dealers have criticized the new law.

  • Vote of censure against Ken Ofori-Atta ‘loss’ – Speaker declares

    The Minority in Parliament has failed to remove Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta, from office despite casting a secret ballot voting.

    Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has indicated that the secret voting exercise executed by a one-sided Parliament to ensure a vote of censure against Ken Ofori-Atta is wasted.

    The Minority in Parliament went ahead to cast their secret ballot on Thursday, after the Majority staged a walk-out.

    The Majority led by Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu walked out of the chamber during a heated debate after they pointed out that the censure motion is unfair. The said 80 NPP MPs who are against a Finance Ministry headed by Ken Ofori-Atta were among the legislators who walked out.

    Despite their absence, the Minority went ahead with the secret balloting.

    After voting, Speaker told the House that the voting exercise is “loss” because it fails to uphold Article 82 (1) of the 1992 constitution which states that “1. Parliament may, by a resolution supported by the votes of not less than two-thirds of all the members of Parliament, pass a vote of censure on a Minister of State.”

    In Parliament were 136 MPs on the Minority side. 136 votes supported the censure of the Finance Minister.

    However, per the law, Parliament needs at least 184 MPs out of the 274 MPs, which is two-thirds of the MPs to pass a vote of censure on a Minister of State.

     

  • Minority MPs cast secret ballot after Majority stage a walk out

    A one sided Parliament is casting their ballot to decide whether the Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta, should be removed from post or not.

    On Thursday, the House commenced debate on the censure motion filed against Mr Ofori-Atta by the Minority.

    It was a heated debate, as the Minority insisted that the Finance Minister is unfit to steer the affairs of the economy. The Majority argued otherwise.

    Mr Ofori-Atta, who was also in Parliament, likened his censure motion to a crucifixion, arguing that he has done no wrong.

    Displeased by the position of the Minority MPs, the NPP MPs staged a walkout, including the 80 MPs who are said to be against Mr Ofori-Atta still being in office.

    However, Speaker Alban Bagbin has permitted the House to engage in a secret ballot.

    Article 82 of the 1992 constitution states that “1. Parliament may, by a resolution supported by the votes of not less than two-thirds of all the members of Parliament, pass a vote of censure on a Minister of State.

    2. A motion for the resolution referred to in clause (1) of this article shall not be moved in Parliament unless a. seven days’ notice has been given of the motion; and b. the notice for the motion has been signed by not less than one-third of all the members of Parliament;

    3. The motion shall be debated in Parliament within fourteen days after the receipt by the Speaker of the notice for the motion.

    4. A Minister of State in respect of whom a vote of censure is debated under clause (3) of this article is entitled, during the debate, to be heard in his defence.

    5. Where a vote of censure is passed against a Minister under this article the President may, unless the Minister resigns his office, revoke his appointment as a
    Minister.

    6. For the avoidance of doubt this article applies to a Deputy Minister as it applies to a Minister of State.”

     

  • Haruna Iddrisu, other NDC MPs commend Pablo

    Some bigwigs in the National Democratic Congress (NDC) have eulogised the party’s National Youth Organiser, George Opare Addo for his good works since coming into office.

    Mr Opare Addo, popularly referred to as Pablo, was sworn into office in 2018.

    Minority leader and MP for Tamale South, Haruna Iddrisu, is among the NDC MPs who have endorsed the National Youth Organiser, who is seeking a second term in office.

    Mr Iddrisu noted that just as his role expects, Mr Opare Addo has been the medium that breaches the gap between the grassroot supporters, mostly the youth, and the leadership of the party.

    He noted that Pablo ensured that the leadership of the party had ample time to interact and discuss their future and the future of the current opposition party while in Tamale for a political event.

    “Pablo, I should thank you. My MP said yesterday, you just didn’t receive them well but you gave them room to share their thoughts and experiences with the gallant youth of our party. We remain grateful for the opportunity and for the gesture. And to Pablo on behalf of the parliamentary wing of the party, let me thank you profoundly; one for the Tamale Northern Region, my own region for this ceremony of grooming and seeking to develop the capacities,” he said.

    Another NDC MP likened the administration of Pablo to that of  “an army of sheep led by a lion”. According to the MP, such an army “can conquer an army of lions led by a sheep.”

    For most of the NDC MPs, Mr Opare Addo has remained “selfless” as far as the party is concerned.

    These appellations were showered on Mr Opare Addo at the National TEIN Capacity Building Boot Camp held in the Northern Region.

    In his speech, Pablo expressed the words of a true leader, encouraging all to persevere and be determined to get the work done for the greater good of the NDC.

    “Courage is not the one who shouts the loudest. Courage is not the one who portrays himself that I am courageous. But courage is getting the job done at every cost and making sure that there are no complaints. We are getting the job done, and I trust you will also go and get yours done,” he stated..

    Mr Opare Addo is hopeful of retaining his position when the party, on December 10, 2022, elects its new batch of national executives.

    He is optimistic that his works would prove his worth and show his capabilities to provide more successes for the NDC.

    Should he be given the nod, the NDC is expected to benefit from 10 projects under his tutelage.

    Mr Opare Addo among other things, wants to provide quarterly fuel allowances for constituency Youth Organizer, set up financing for Youth Wing Members running for District Assembly elections, operationalize the Youth Wing command center with digital infrastructure for volunteers for operation 24/7.

    The fourth and fifth items on his to-do-list are to reassemble a National Youth Operation wing ahead of the 2024 elections and provide Megaphones and information packed flash drives for each constituency youth organizer ahead of the 2024 general elections.

    The remaining projects to be executed under the leadership of Mr Opare Addo are “print T-shirts and other Paraphernalia for constituency youth organizers; provide a motorbike for each youth organizer and the deputy to increase grassroots mobilization by December 2023; provide cars to deputy regional youth organizers and regional youth organizers without functioning cars; provide a National TEIN Coordinators Vehicle under the auspices of the TEIN secretariat and establish the “Support The Youth Fund” with seed money for constituency Youth organizers.”

  • There is no fire outbreak – Bank of Ghana reveals

    The Bank of Ghana has refuted reports that its outfit has caught fire.

    “Reports about a fire outbreak at bank of Ghana untrue,” the Central Bank tweeted.

    Word circulating on social media today was that the Bank of Ghana has caught fire.

    Reacting to the news, the Bank noted that what was misread as a fire outbreak was actually a routine fire drill (simulation exercise) to prepare staff for real-time fire situation.

    The exercise was conducted in collaboration with the Ghana National Fire Service, the National Ambulance Service and the Ghana Police Service.

    “As a public facility, routine fire drill is necessary for testing the efficiency and preparedness of the Bank’s safety systems to manage emergencies like fires, and inculcate in the staff of the Bank fire safety evacuation procedures,” the Bank added.

    Meanwhile, the Bank of Ghana has warned against false reportage intended to create fear and panic in the country.

     

  • PLAYBACK: Parliament debates censure motion against Ofori-Atta

    Parliament debated the resolution of censure against the troubled Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta.

    The motion of censure was brought by the Minority Caucus against the Finance Minister, who they charged with economic incompetence, financial irresponsibility, conflict of interest, and egregious economic mismanagement.

    The discussion will revolve on whether the House should vote to remove Mr Ofori-Atta from office or not. It was originally scheduled to take place on Wednesday but was moved to today.

    On November 25, 2022, the eight-person ad hoc committee that Speaker of the House Alban Bagbin appointed to look into the motion moved against the Finance Minister delivered its findings to the House.

  • USA, Russia swap Brittney Griner for arms dealer

    US basketball star and Olympic gold medalist, Brittney Griner has been freed in a prisoner-swap and is now in US custody.

    Russia agreed to swap her for its citizen, Viktor Bout, an infamous arms dealer nicknamed “Merchant of Death”.

    The two-time Olympic gold medalist and all-star center for the Phoenix Mercury of the WNBA was held in February after customs officers at Moscow’s Sheremetyevo Airport allegedly discovered vape cartridges containing cannabis oil in her luggage.

    Griner confirmed having the canisters in her suitcase at trial, but she claimed she packed them accidentally while rushing to catch her trip and had no malicious intent.

    In written remarks, her defense team claimed that she had received a cannabis prescription to relieve chronic pain.

    She was found guilty in August and given a nine-year prison term.

    Viktor was caught in elaborate 2008 DEA sting operation in Thailand. He was convicted on terrorism charges and was sentenced to 25 years in prison.

    He is a former Soviet military translator whose clients included warlords, rogue states in Africa, Asia, South America.

    Source: The Independent Ghana

  • De la Fuente now Spain manager after Luis Enrique exit

    Luis de la Fuente has been named the new manager of Spain, taking over for Luis Enrique, who was fired earlier today.

    After a shocking penalty shootout loss to Morocco in Qatar on Tuesday, La Roja was eliminated from the World Cup.

    After 120 minutes of goalless play, the 2010 champions failed to score on any of their penalty kicks.

    The unexpected outcome was preceded by a group stage campaign marked by a 7-0 win over Costa Rica, a 1-1 tie with Germany, and a 2-1 loss to Japan that left them finishing second in Group E.

    A statement from the Royal Football Federation (RFEF) read: “The RFEF would like to thank Luis Enrique and his entire coaching staff at the helm of the national team in recent years.

    “The sports management of the RFEF has transferred to the president a report in which it is determined that a new project should start for the Spanish soccer team.

    “The aim is to continue with the growth achieved in recent years thanks to the work carried out by Luis Enrique and his collaborators.

    “Both the president, Luis Rubiales, and the sports director, Jose Francisco Molina, have transmitted the decision to the coach.

    “The RFEF has chosen Luis de la Fuente as the new national coach.”

    When Spain’s Euro 2024 qualifying schedule gets underway in March of next year with games against Scotland and Norway, De la Fuente’s first game in command will be then.

    A new era

    Luis de la Fuente coached Spain to victory in a friendly against Lithuania in June 2021
    Luis de la Fuente coached Spain to victory in a friendly against Lithuania in June 2021

    De la Fuente, 61, has been promoted from his previous role as Under-21s boss. guiding the young side to European Championship glory in 2019.

    In addition, he helped Spain win a silver medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics despite losing to Brazil in overtime.

    During Luis Enrique’s isolation due to coronavirus procedures in June 2021, the former Athletic Bilbao left-back took leadership of the senior team for a friendly against Lithuania as a part of the Euro 2020 warm-up.

    He won the Copa del Rey and LaLiga titles twice with Athletic as a player in 1984.

    Spain’s penalty pain

    Luis Enrique failed to help Spain progress past the World Cup last-16 stage
    Luis Enrique failed to help Spain progress past the World Cup last-16 stage

    RFEF’s decision brings to an end Luis Enrique’s tenure after a promising but altogether disappointing time in charge of his country.

    The 52-year-old first took the role in July 2018 but stepped down the following July due to personal reasons.

    When he took control again in November 2019, he oversaw Spain’s progression to the Euro 2020 semifinals, where they were defeated by eventual champions Italy on penalties.

    Between 1991 and 2002, the former midfielder for Real Madrid and Barcelona amassed 62 caps for his country.

    He left the Camp Nou in May 2014 and went on to win nine titles, including a treble in his first season in Catalonia, after stints in the Roma and Celta Vigo dugouts.

  • Ronaldo has not threatened to leave World Cup squad – Portugal

    Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) has refuted claims that Cristiano Ronaldo has threatened to skip the World Cup.

    According to Portuguese media outlet Record, the 37-year-old attacker threatened to leave the team after learning he wouldn’t start their last-16 match against Switzerland.

    The captain of Portugal reacted violently when he was replaced in the last match against South Korea.

    The FPF said: “At no time did Cristiano Ronaldo threaten to leave the national team during the stay in Qatar.”

    Before Portugal’s World Cup opening, Ronaldo departed Manchester United amicably following a contentious interview in which the five-time Ballon d’Or winner criticized the team.

    In both of Portugal’s early matches, Ronaldo was taken off the field and coach Fernando Santos stated he “didn’t appreciate” Ronaldo’s response when he was taken off again during the 2-1 group loss to South Korea.

    In place of Ronaldo, Goncalo Ramos started the match against Switzerland, and the 21-year-old scored three goals in the 6-1 victory.

    “Cristiano Ronaldo builds up a unique track record every day at the service of the national team and the country, which must be respected,” added the FPF.

    “The degree of dedication of the player most capped by Portugal was again demonstrated – if necessary – in the victory against Switzerland, in the round of 16 of the 2022 World Cup.”

    Portugal face Morocco in the quarter-finals on Saturday (15:00 GMT).

    Ronaldo did not train with the other substitutes after Wednesday’s game, instead taking part in a gym session alongside those that started against Switzerland.

  • Luis Enrique no longer Spain manager after World Cup last-16 exit

    Following Spain’s shocking World Cup elimination against Morocco, Luis Enrique has resigned from his position as manager.

    The 52-year-old took over in 2018 and led Spain to the Euro 2020 semifinals.

    The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) said a “new initiative” should begin but did not specify when a new manager would be named.

    “We would like to thank Luis Enrique and his entire coaching staff,” the RFEF said in a statement.

    The former Spain midfielder took a brief leave of absence from his position in 2019 due to the diagnosis of bone cancer in his late daughter before returning for the team’s great performance at the Euros in the competition that was postponed by a year due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

    The eventual champions Italy eliminated Spain from the Euros after their semifinal match ended in a penalty shootout.

    They defeated Costa Rica 7-0 in their opening World Cup group match, but after drawing 1-1 with Germany and losing 2-1 to Japan, they were criticized for playing a “boring” possession-based style of football.

    Spain was held to a scoreless draw by Morocco on Tuesday before losing once more in a penalty shootout and being eliminated.

  • World Cup: Sterling to return to England camp

    Raheem Sterling will re-join England’s World Cup team on Friday before the quarterfinal match against France following a quick trip home.

    After what appeared to be a break-in at their home, during which several priceless items were taken, the Chelsea forward traveled to be with his family.

    With manager Gareth Southgate stating that Sterling was leaving for home, the 28-year-old was not a part of England’s victory over Senegal in the round of 16 on Sunday.

    Following the raid’s report on Saturday, Surrey Police opened an inquiry.

    The force said there had been “no threat of violence… as the items were discovered stolen retrospectively”.

    The Football Association said in a statement on Thursday: “Raheem Sterling will return to England’s World Cup base in Qatar.

    “The Chelsea forward temporarily left to attend to a family matter but is now expected to rejoin the squad in Al Wakrah on Friday ahead of the quarter-final with France.”

    Given that he has missed three crucial training sessions, it might imply that Sterling’s comeback is too late for him to have any chance of starting Saturday’s match against the reigning champions.

    In 81 senior appearances for England, Sterling, who turned 28 on Thursday, has 20 goals to his credit. His only goal at the World Cup thus far came in the opening 6-2 victory over Iran.

  • Rabiot emphasises Premier League desire

    According to the Juventus midfielder, Adrien Rabiot, he would like to play in the Premier League someday.

    Rabiot had been heavily linked to a move to Manchester United earlier this year, but reports claimed that despite an initial fee of £15 million (€17. 4 million) having been agreed upon, the parties could not come to an agreement on terms, and the Red Devils decided to sign Casemiro from Real Madrid instead.

    Ahead of Saturday’s quarterfinal against England, where the 27-year-old is presently playing for France at the World Cup, Rabiot stated that he would eventually like to play club football in the Premier League.

    Referencing the short period he spent at Manchester City’s academy in 2008, he told reporters: “It was a very good experience. I didn’t do a whole season, though.

    “Everything went well while I was there. I really liked the atmosphere. It’s really something that is only in England. It’s different from France and Italy.

    “I have always said that I’d like to play in England in my career. I still have that desire. I’d like to evolve in the Premier League.”

    Rabiot joined Juventus in 2019 after leaving Paris Saint-Germain. He has played 145 times for the Bianconeri, contributing 11 goals and 8 assists. This season, he has shined, scoring five goals in 16 games and dishing out two assists.

    Rabiot, who is in the final year of his contract with the Serie A team, gave the impression that he has not yet made up his mind about his future but made it plain that he is open to moving to England in the future.

    “I haven’t got a Premier League team in mind right now,” he added. “I haven’t chosen a team or anything. It’s a general thing.

    “It’s the league, it’s the level of play that’s going on, that’s what attracts me most. It corresponds to my qualities.”

  • Maguire being investigated at Man Utd as defender thrives on World Cup stage

    With Manchester United, Harry Maguire feels he is “under a lot more scrutiny” than with England, despite the center-continued back’s success at the World Cup.

    The captain of the Red Devils has excelled for Gareth Southgate’s team in Qatar 2022, starting each of their four games thus far and contributing to three clean sheets.

    It stands in stark contrast to the defender’s recent struggles at club level and his removal as a first-choice selection by new manager Erik ten Hag during an injury layoff.

    While admitting that United were much below par last season, Maguire himself has few concerns and claims that he feels more scrutinized at Old Trafford than with the Three Lions.

    “At Manchester United, I’m under a lot more scrutiny,” he added. “Everything I do gets analysed. Every pass I make gets analysed. Every goal we concede is a defender’s fault.

    “If you’re playing week in, week out as I did for three years, the last year hasn’t been good enough. Everyone in the team didn’t play well enough, and we came under a lot of scrutiny as players.”

    Under Ten Hag however, United have overcome a shaky start – and the saga of Cristiano Ronaldo – to head into the World Cup break looking close to their best for two years.

    Maguire is delighted to see the turnaround, even if he is down the pecking order, and is relishing the chance to battle to get back into the Dutchman’s thinking.

    “No one came out of the season with plaudits, so it was a general team issue last season, but this one has been much better,” he added.

    “This is the first year I’ve really sat on a bench in a few games. I obviously got an injury as well, a thigh injury that kept me out for four weeks, but I’ll fight to get my place back.”

    Maguire will be expected to line up when England face off with defending champions France in the World Cup quarter-finals on Saturday.

  • Martinez taking pain-killing injections to play at World Cup – Agent reveals

    According to his agency, Lautaro Martinez has received pain-relieving injections to enable him to represent Argentina at the World Cup.

    Despite four outings at the tournament in Qatar, the Inter striker is still without a goal, and La Albiceleste have advanced to the round of eight.

    Martinez made the starting lineup for both the 2-0 victory over Mexico and the shocking opening loss to Saudi Arabia, in which two goals were disallowed for offside.

    However, he was chosen for the bench against Poland in the last group match, and he also entered the game against Australia in the round of 16 with less than 20 minutes remaining.

    The attacker is seeking treatment for an ankle ailment, Martinez’s agency said before of Argentina’s quarterfinal matchup with the Netherlands on Friday.

    “Lautaro has been taking injections because he has a lot of pain in his ankle,” Alejandro Camacho told La Red.

    “He’s working hard to make that pain go away, and as soon as that happens, he’ll be flying on the pitch. Martinez is a top player in the world.

    “He is very strong in the mind, but the goals that were disallowed against Saudi Arabia were hard moments for him.”

    Manchester City’s Julian Alvarez has been the man that Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni has selected to start in Martinez’s place.

    Camacho believes Alvarez and Martinez are helping each other’s performances, adding: “The competition makes him [Martinez] and Julian stronger, because contrary to what you might think, they are good for each other.”

  • World Cup: Halilhodzic watches Morocco success from afar

    Vahid Halilhodzic believes he was left “out in the rain” as he watched Morocco advance to the World Cup quarterfinals.

    With a 5-2 overall victory over the Democratic Republic of the Congo in the third round of CAF qualifying in March, Halilhodzic ensured Morocco’s qualification for the finals in Qatar.

    Halilhodzic, however, was fired in August, which was his third firing from a national team position prior to a World Cup after guiding a side to qualification.

    The Bosnian lost to Japan in 2018 and Ivory Coast in 2010, although he did guide Algeria to the round of 16 in 2014.

    Halilhodzic came under fire for not picking enough locally based players and leaving out Hakim Ziyech, who did not feature in the qualification campaign.

    “When you arrive in a country, you don’t know all the good players. So we have to look for them,” Halilhodzic added.

    “How many tapes I watched in Morocco! At least a thousand. I updated 80 per cent of the team. We have to find them, the players who can play for the national team.

    “What makes a coach credible are the results. And never has the Moroccan team got better results than with me in the World Cup qualifiers. Seven wins, one draw having scored three goals per game on average.

    “What I didn’t appreciate were the smear campaigns, to create animosity between supporters of different clubs, between locals and Moroccans abroad, that locals would be prevented from playing for their country.

    “This pressure from the federation had already been going on for a long time. They wanted me to take three-four players, while the team had achieved results without them. I did not give in, because you lose your credibility when the players feel that we decide for you.

    “Some refused to play for Morocco because they had entourages who preferred them to play for Spain, Italy or France. And afterwards, they change their minds when there is a World Cup!

    “I felt that with the Moroccan team that I had built, we could do something at the World Cup. I would have liked to end my career with a successful World Cup and say enough!”

     

  • Show us what you have to offer – Ten Hag challenges United’s youngsters

    Erik ten Hag has thrown a challenge to Manchester United’s young players, telling them they have a “fantastic” opportunity to make a mark at the team’s training camp in Spain.

    A number of Ten Hag’s players are still competing for their countries at the World Cup, and United is one of several Premier League teams that have gone abroad for midseason training camps.

    Twelve United players are still present in Qatar going into the quarterfinals, and Ten Hag will probably make lineup adjustments due to the short turnaround before the Premier League season resumes later this month.

    “We have a lot of young players with us and they have to support us – they can show us what they have to offer, what their capabilities are and what their potential is and if you can use them, if they have a future,” he told MUTV.

    “I think it’s a great opportunity for them. Normally we don’t have this break and now we have this break.

    “Many players are at the World Cup, so there are positions available and they can get used in these positions.

    “They can show themselves and they can challenge players who play in the Premier League [games], so it’s fantastic for them.”

    On December 21, United will play Burnley in the EFL Cup, and six days later, they will play Nottingham Forest in the Premier League.


  • World Cup: Konate anxious for Mbappe-Walker battle

    When France plays England in the World Cup quarterfinals, Ibrahima Konate is eager to get a close-up view of Kylian Mbappe and Kyle Walker’s struggle.

    Following their victory against Poland, Didier Deschamps’ team will now face one of the few remaining unbeaten teams in Qatar 2022 when they face Gareth Southgate’s Three Lions.

    The tournament’s top performer thus far has been forward Kylian Mbappe, who leads the Golden Boot standings with five goals.

    But in England right-back Walker, he will likely have his biggest test to date. Konate is eager to watch the two clash.

    “Walker and Mbappe are two very great players,” he said. “Walker is one of the best right-backs in the world, I cannot wait to see this battle.

    “[But] it’s complicated [to defend against Mbappe]. Kylian is impressive. Each year, he evolves and becomes even better.

    “I don’t know where he will stop. We are lucky to have him in our team and not against us.”

    Mbappe missed team training on Tuesday, instead completing routines inside away from the rest of the squad, sparking fears of a potential injury knock.

    But Konate shut down such talk, suggesting instead it was a preordained decision as part of his post-match recovery process.

    “It was a little recovery session, the day before we had a day off,” he added. “I think he decided to stay indoors with the coach.

    “There is nothing to worry about. We are counting on him as on all the players in the group. Everyone must be in good health to face England.”

     

     

     

  • World Cup: I know what I need to do to stop Mbappe – Walker

    On Saturday, when England and France square off in the World Cup quarterfinals, Kyle Walker won’t show Kylian Mbappe any extra favors.

    The Three Lions easily defeated Senegal in the round of 16, but they now face their toughest test yet against the defending champions.

    While Walker is fully aware of the threat that Paris Saint-Germain star Mbappe poses, he says that Gareth Southgate’s team must concentrate on Les Bleus as a whole rather than on any one player.

    The Manchester City ace, 32, said: “He’s a great player in great form so it’s not going to be an easy task.

    “But as a professional you want to play against the best players and he is one of the best in the world.

    “Of course, I understand the focus and I understand what I need to do to stop him. It’s easier said than done but I don’t underestimate myself.

    “I’ve come up against some of the best players in the world but I have to treat it just as another game. You have to give him respect but not too much.

    “It will be a tough game but a team cannot just be about one person. I’m not going to roll out a red carpet for him and tell him to score. It’s a World Cup, it’s do or die.

    Kyle Walker will have the unenviable task of keeping Kylian Mbappe quiet on Saturday
    Kyle Walker will have the unenviable task of keeping Kylian Mbappe quiet on Saturday

    “When City have played Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League, we’re not just thinking of Mbappe — and it’s the same on Saturday.

    “Yes, he’s a tool in their armoury — and a very good one — but you can’t underestimate their other players.

    “We know he’s a great player and that’s why he’s the focus of all questions. But let’s not forget Olivier Giroud, who has scored lots of goals, Ousmane Dembele and Antoine Griezmann.

    “For me, all the questions shouldn’t be about him [Mbappe]. I appreciate he’s a great footballer but there are others as well.”

    A new generation

    Jude Bellingham has been a standout performer for England in Qatar
    Jude Bellingham has been a standout performer for England in Qatar

    The England team’s campaign in Qatar has provided players like Jude Bellingham, Bukayo Saka, and Phil Foden the chance to excel internationally.

    The three have combined to help the Three Lions score eight of their 12 goals thus far in the competition.

    Giving his opinion on the young talent shining in Southgate’s squad, Walker said: “It is great for the English game.

    “Jude being one who has the courage to play for England that others didn’t have when they were younger. They have no fear and they go in and express themselves.

    “We have to pay a big compliment to the manager. He has allowed the youngsters that chance but they want to be the best they can be as a footballer.

    “I feel the standard of players has gone up another level in this tournament.

    “As a team in Russia [in 2018], we were a little inexperienced in big matches. We got to the semi-final, we scored early and we didnt know how to handle that. We’re more equipped now.”

    Underdogs no more

    Kyle Walker is ready for the challenge of France in the quarter-finals
    Kyle Walker is ready for the challenge of France in the quarter-finals

    There would have been a time when England went into a game with France as huge underdogs — but that is no longer the case.

    Walker added: “We’re playing the world champions but we are two good teams that will go toe to toe. You’ve seen what can happen in 90-plus minutes.

    “There have been shocks and for us this is just another game. We take our hat off to them as world champions but each and every one of us will not be rolling that red carpet out for them to treat it as a theatre.

    “We have great talent — let’s talk about the goals we’ve scored and the clean sheets we’ve kept.

    “In my eyes, neither team is the underdogs or the favourites.

    “This is a great opportunity to show we can beat a big team. To beat France would give us confidence.”

     

  • Assistant coach Hermann retires from Dortmund for health reasons

    Peter Hermann, an assistant coach with Borussia Dortmund, has retired from his role and ended a long career due to health issues.

    With June, Dortmund hired the well-respected 70-year-old to work in Edin Terzic’s backroom team.

    Hermann has coached German football for more than 30 years and has taken the sidelines for more than 1,000 matches in the Bundesliga, 2.Bundesliga, and DFB-Pokal.

    He formerly held two positions as an assistant at Bayern Munich, where he and Jupp Heynckes both contributed to the team’s illustrious treble in the 2012–13 season.

    Dortmund announced in a statement on their official website on Wednesday that Hermann has left his role with immediate effect.

    “Peter has asked us for his release for health reasons. It goes without saying that we have complied with his wish,” Dortmund sporting director Sebastian Kehl said.

    “We were incredibly happy last summer that Peter – although his personal life plans didn’t include it at the time – decided to spend another year in professional football for BVB.

    “In him we are not only losing an experienced, technically excellent coach, but also a great person.”

    Hermann also enjoyed spells in the dugout with Bayer Leverkusen, Schalke, Hamburg, Nurnberg and Fortuna Dusseldorf.

    “My time at BVB was short and yet very intense,” Hermann said. “I’ve come to appreciate this club, the team and the entire environment over the past few months.

    “I’ve enjoyed working for a club that loves and lives football so much. Unfortunately, I’m not allowed to work longer for Dortmund, because of course health always comes first.”

    Dortmund, who are sixth in the Bundesliga after 15 matches, confirmed they are searching for Hermann’s successor and a decision will be made in the coming weeks.

  • Xhaka okay to work with Nketiah in Jesus’ Arsenal absence

    Granit Xhaka acknowledges that the loss of Gabriel Jesus to injury is a significant setback for Arsenal, but he is sure that the Gunners can compete without him and has lent his backing to Eddie Nketiah, who is expected to fill in for him.

    Jesus sustained a knee injury in Brazil’s World Cup loss to Cameroon, forcing him to miss the rest of the competition and requiring surgery, with a two- to three-month recovery time anticipated.

    It deals Mikel Arteta a severe blow before the Gunners resume their Premier League championship defense on Boxing Day. The former Manchester City forward has rapidly become a crucial part of the team.

    Jesus faces a lengthy absence, but Xhaka thinks it’s a “minor injury” he can handle and has promised to help his colleague get better.

    “I spoke with him straight after the Cameroon game. We have the contact between each other, with all the players we have here in the World Cup,” he told reporters.

    “It’s a shame because you saw in the first round of the Premier League how important he is for us. I don’t know how big the injury is, maybe two or three months, I think.

    “But he is a strong guy. It’s a small injury for him I think, and we will support him. He knows that we are behind him and hopefully we can get him back as quick as possible.”

    Arsenal may choose to use Nketiah to lead the line if Jesus is injured.

    Nketiah has made 12 Premier League substitute appearances so far this season without scoring, but he had a good finish to the last campaign, earning a new deal after tallying five goals in the final seven games of the top division.

    Xhaka is excited to support Nketiah, 23, in the coming months because he thinks the 23-year-old has what it takes to fill the gap in the Gunners’ attack.

    “We have the option with Eddie, of course. He showed great games as well in the past and we need to support Gabi first,” he added.

    “We need to support Eddie as well, because he will be a big, big part of the next two or three months.

    “But I am looking forward because we have the quality to bring Eddie there and to help him.”

    Arsenal resume their Premier League campaign on Boxing Day with a London derby against West Ham at the Emirates Stadium.