Favour's blog

Galatasaray ’s record signing, Victor Osimhen , has found himself unexpectedly at the center of a local controversy in Turkey following his high-profile move from Napoli . The Nigerian striker, who joined the Istanbul giants this summer in a historic €75 million deal, was warmly welcomed by fans and hailed as the most expensive signing in Turkish football history. His arrival placed him among Europe’s highest-paid players and sparked huge excitement for the club’s 2025 season. However, just days after landing in Turkey, Osimhen’s name appeared on Google Maps as the title of a mosque in the Karatay district of Konya . The Bulut Mosque , completed in 2008, was suddenly listed as the “Victor Osimhen Mosque,” prompting swift backlash from the local community. Members of the congregation expressed their dissatisfaction, emphasizing that the mosque had carried the Bulut name for over a decade and should not be associated with an unrelated public figure. One worshipper said, “We have been a c...

  Nigeria’s Super Falcons have once again affirmed their dominance in African women’s football , maintaining the number one spot on the continent in the latest FIFA Women’s World Rankings released on Thursday. Despite their record-extending 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations ( WAFCON ) title triumph in Morocco , the team held on to their global ranking of 36th, a position they have occupied for six consecutive editions since dropping from 34th in March 2024. During the recent international window, the Super Falcons showcased their strength with a 3–1 victory over Ghana and a hard-fought draw against Portugal in friendly matches. Their winning momentum carried into the 2024 WAFCON, where Coach Justin Madugu ’s squad delivered a series of commanding performances. In the group stage, Nigeria secured two wins and a draw before overcoming Zambia in the quarter-finals, defeating rivals South Africa in the semis, and clinching a decisive victory over hosts Morocco in the final to r...

Nigerian entertainer, Peller , has voiced his disappointment over the silence from Super Falcons players, particularly star striker Asisat Oshoala , following their victory at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco . The Super Falcons secured their 10th continental title in a dramatic 3-2 comeback against host nation Morocco at Rabat’s Olympic Stadium . The victory came despite Nigeria trailing 2-0 early in the match, with a spirited second-half performance turning the game in their favor. To celebrate their achievement, President Bola Tinubu rewarded each player with $100,000, a three-bedroom apartment under the Renewed Hope Housing Scheme, and the national honor of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON). However, Peller alleges that since the win, his attempts to reach out to the team have gone unanswered. Speaking in a recent livestream, he claimed that Oshoala and several players have ignored his messages for over two weeks. “I texted Asisat Oshoala since two...

Paris Saint-Germain defender Achraf Hakimi is at risk of a 15-year prison sentence following a rape allegation stemming from 2023. French prosecutors have formally requested that Hakimi stand trial in a criminal court. The Nanterre prosecutor’s office confirmed the move on Friday, stating, “It is now up to the investigating magistrate to make a decision within the framework of his order.” Hakimi, 26, was charged in March 2023 after a 24-year-old woman accused him of rape. The incident allegedly occurred on February 25, 2023, at Hakimi’s home in Boulogne-Billancourt, while his family was away. Despite the charges, Hakimi has denied any wrongdoing. The Moroccan international recently played a key role in Paris Saint-Germain’s historic Champions League victory, scoring in the 5-0 final win over Inter Milan. He also starred in Morocco’s groundbreaking run to the semi-finals of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, becoming part of football history as the team became the first African and Arab ...

A touching moment of nostalgia and unity unfolded in Lagos as Nigerian football legend Augustine “Jay-Jay” Okocha hosted his former coach, Clemens Westerhof, and his wife, Lillian. Westerhof, who famously led the Super Eagles to their historic 1994 Africa Cup of Nations win and the Round of 16 at the FIFA World Cup the same year, described the evening as “unforgettable.” The gathering rekindled memories of Nigeria’s golden football era. Okocha, a standout star under Westerhof’s leadership, was celebrated for organizing the reunion. Their meeting sparked admiration online, with fans hailing Westerhof as a legend and recalling the pride of Nigeria’s 1994 football triumph. “Thank you for ‘94 especially Sir Clem! We learned to pronounce your name [and] sang it along the streets!” one fan commented. Westerhof served as Super Eagles head coach from 1989 to 1994, transforming the team into a continental powerhouse. Okocha’s dazzling talent during this period helped cement his legacy as one of...

  Renowned German footballer and 1990 FIFA World Cup winner, Frank Mill, has passed away at the age of 67, following complications from a heart attack suffered in late May. Mill, who collapsed shortly after entering a taxi at Milan Malpensa Airport while en route to participate in a documentary about Germany’s 1990 World Cup victory, was immediately airlifted to a hospital. After being resuscitated by doctors and placed in an artificial coma, his condition initially stabilized, allowing him to return to his hometown of Essen, Germany, for continued care. Despite a courageous 10-week battle, Frank Mill passed away peacefully at 2:30 am. A celebrated forward, Mill earned 17 caps for the German national team and won a bronze medal at the 1988 Olympic Games before being part of the squad that claimed the World Cup in Italy two years later. Mill began his professional career at Rot-Weiss Essen before rising to prominence at Borussia Mönchengladbach, where he scored prolifically across o...

Global football icon Cristiano Ronaldo has touched down in Lagos, Nigeria, alongside his Al Nassr teammates as part of their pre-season preparations for the upcoming Saudi Pro League campaign. The team, which had been training in Lisbon, Portugal, shared their excitement online, declaring: “Lisbon chapter closed, Lagos chapter loading.” Ronaldo's arrival in Lagos was accompanied by fellow stars including new signing João Félix and Senegalese international Sadio Mané. The squad, already packed with talent, has undergone recent reinforcements in a bid to dominate the forthcoming season. In a recent friendly, Al Nassr defeated French club Toulouse 2-1, with Ronaldo finding the back of the net. Their next major challenge is a clash with Al Ittihad in the Saudi Super Cup. Photos circulated across social media show the squad arriving in Lagos and taking part in training sessions, generating massive buzz among fans. Observers noted Ronaldo wearing a training bib labeled with the number 9,...

  Portuguese football legend Cristiano Ronaldo has landed in Lagos, Portugal, along with João Félix, Sadio Mané, and the rest of the Al Nassr squad, as part of the club’s preseason tour ahead of the 2025/2026 Saudi Pro League season. After wrapping up their initial preparations in Lisbon, Al Nassr confirmed the squad’s relocation via social media, stating, “Lisbon chapter closed, Lagos chapter loading.” The club also posted a series of pictures showing players arriving in the city, generating excitement among fans. Ronaldo Shines in Preseason Opener The Saudi giants kicked off their preseason campaign with a 2-1 win over French club Toulouse, with Ronaldo on the scoresheet. The five-time Ballon d'Or winner scored a spectacular goal, helping to set the tone for what promises to be a competitive season. The team is now focused on their next preseason challenge as they prepare for a Saudi Super Cup clash against rivals Al Ittihad. A Power-Packed Lineup The arrival of new signing João ...

In a proud moment for Nigerian football, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated Remo Stars Football Club for clinching the 2024–2025 Nigerian Premier Football League (NPFL) title — a first in the club’s history. In a statement released by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President praised the team for their "hard work, discipline, and unyielding spirit," noting that their journey to victory was marked by persistence through several near-misses. "Remo Stars’ courage in pushing forward despite three previous heartbreaks in the race for the title is truly admirable. I hope their story inspires other clubs across the country to keep striving toward greatness," Tinubu said. Special commendation was also reserved for Kunle Soname, the club’s owner and chairman, whose investments — particularly the construction of a modern stadium in Ikenne, Ogun State — have fueled the club’s rise and helped develop grassroots football in Nigeria. ...

Arsenal has been advised to consider West Ham’s Mohammed Kudus as a short-term replacement for Bukayo Saka, who could be sidelined until March following surgery for a hamstring injury sustained during the Premier League victory over Crystal Palace on December 21. Saka, 23, has been a pivotal figure in Arsenal's title challenges in recent years, with five goals and ten assists in just 16 league games this season before his injury. However, manager Mikel Arteta hinted that the club might not seek a direct replacement in the January transfer window, opting instead to rely on internal options. Former Arsenal midfielder Adrian Clarke, however, has suggested that Kudus could fill the void left by Saka. Speaking on talkSPORT, Clarke said, “Mohammed Kudus is a perfect Bukayo Saka replacement who can also do a job up front. Arsenal has shown long-term interest in him, and he is a wonderful traveler with the ball at his feet.” Follow us on Facebook @ Favour's blog Since joining West Ham ...

Super Eagles head coach, José Peseiro, has congratulated Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman on winning the prestigious CAF Player of the Year 2024 award. Peseiro, in a statement, described the recognition as well-deserved, applauding Lookman’s exceptional talent and his contributions to both Nigerian football and the African football scene. follow favour's blog on Facebook @ Favour's blog Instagram @ Favour's blog X @ Favour's blog The coach also highlighted the Nigerian national team’s role, acknowledging their collective efforts that supported Lookman’s success. He noted the significance of a Super Eagles player winning the award for the second consecutive year, following Victor Osimhen’s triumph in 2023. Peseiro wrote: "It is important to highlight the role of the Nigerian national team, whose collective efforts contributed to this individual award, as well as the remarkable achievement of a Super Eagle winning the award for the second consecutive year, following ...

President Bola Tinubu has extended his congratulations to Ademola Lookman, Super Falcons goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, and the Super Falcons team for their achievements at the 2024 CAF Awards held at the Palais des Congrès in Marrakech, Morocco. Ademola Lookman was honored as the 2024 CAF Men’s African Footballer of the Year, while Chiamaka Nnadozie secured the Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year award. The Super Falcons were recognized as the Women’s National Team of the Year, further cementing Nigeria’s football dominance on the continental stage. In a statement released late Monday night by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu described the athletes as “worthy ambassadors” who have showcased Nigerian talent and brought immense honor to the country. The president commended their determination, discipline, and resilience, highlighting their achievements as a source of inspiration for future generations. He noted that these accolades reflect the essential Nigerian spirit, u...

Nigerian football star Ademola Lookman has been crowned the 2024 CAF African Player of the Year during a glittering ceremony held in Marrakech, Morocco. The prestigious award celebrates Lookman’s outstanding year on the pitch and his contributions to both club and country. The Atalanta forward played a pivotal role in his team’s success, showcasing exceptional skill, speed, and goal-scoring ability. Lookman’s stellar performances in Serie A and his influence in Nigeria’s qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations earned him widespread recognition. In May, Lookman made history by becoming the first player to score a hat-trick in a UEFA Europa League final, leading Atalanta to a remarkable 3-0 victory over Bayer Leverkusen and ending their unbeaten streak. The Nigerian edged out stiff competition from players like Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi, Ivory Coast’s Simon Adingra, Guinea’s Serhou Guirassy, and South Africa’s goalkeeper Ronwen Williams to clinch the award. Other Notable Winners: ...

Chelsea secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Brentford at Stamford Bridge on Sunday, extending their winning streak to five consecutive Premier League matches — the longest in the league this season. Marc Cucurella opened the scoring in the 43rd minute, nodding in a cross from Noni Madueke, before Nicolas Jackson added a second with just 10 minutes left on the clock. Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo pulled one back in stoppage time, but Chelsea held firm to claim all three points. The victory brings Chelsea within two points of league leaders Liverpool, who have a game in hand. If Chelsea win their next match against Everton, they could top the table, at least temporarily, until Liverpool’s fixture against Tottenham. Cucurella Shines Despite Rollercoaster Week Marc Cucurella bounced back after a turbulent week, which included a performance criticized for defensive errors and a PR mishap involving his boots. The Spaniard was instrumental in breaking Brentford’s resistance, scoring his first P...

In a dramatic turn of events, Manchester United secured a 2-1 victory over Manchester City in the December Manchester Derby, marking one of the latest comebacks against a reigning Premier League champion. City led the game until the 88th minute, only to concede two quick goals in a remarkable finale. This loss adds to a peculiar trend in the 2024 Premier League season, where the team leading at halftime in both Manchester derbies has gone on to lose. Back in March, City overturned a halftime deficit to defeat United 3-1. Tonight, the reverse occurred, with United flipping the script in the dying moments. The defeat also highlights a rare vulnerability for Pep Guardiola's side at home. Since Guardiola's tenure began, City have lost only four of the 105 Premier League home games in which they were leading at halftime. Interestingly, half of those defeats have come at the hands of their city rivals, including a 3-2 loss in April 2018 and tonight’s 2-1 thriller. Another point of in...

In a surprising turn of events, Manchester City is reportedly exploring the possibility of signing free-agent midfielder Paul Pogba. According to The Independent, discussions are underway regarding a move for the former Manchester United and Juventus star. Pogba, who recently had his four-year doping suspension reduced to 18 months on appeal, will be eligible to play again in March 2025. This development follows the mutual termination of his contract with Juventus last month, leaving the French international open to offers. Despite Manchester City's interest, Pogba is said to be hesitant about the move due to his deep ties to Manchester United, where he spent six seasons after a record-breaking transfer from Juventus in 2016. The potential transfer has sparked mixed reactions among fans, given Pogba's tumultuous tenure at Old Trafford and his past criticism of the club's structure. However, Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City, known for their strategic player acquisitions, migh...

Manchester city  The hearing into Manchester City's alleged breaches of Premier League rules has officially concluded, though a verdict is not expected until 2025. The proceedings, which began on September 16 at London’s International Dispute Resolution Centre, involved closing arguments presented to an independent panel on Friday, according to The Daily Mail. City are accused of 115 rule violations, including 80 breaches of financial regulations between 2009 and 2018 and 35 charges related to failing to cooperate with the Premier League’s investigation. Allegations include the failure to provide accurate financial details regarding sponsorship revenues and manager/player salaries. Potential Sanctions for Manchester City If found guilty, the reigning English champions could face severe penalties, including relegation from the Premier League. However, Manchester City has consistently denied any wrongdoing and is expected to appeal any unfavorable ruling, potentially delaying sanctio...