Rivers United extended their unbeaten run to seven matches with a 2-0 victory over Shooting Stars in Port Harcourt on Thursday.

After a goalless first half, Aniekeme Okon broke the deadlock in the 51st minute, and Ndifreke Effiong added a second 14 minutes before full-time. With this win, Finidi George’s side climbed to the top of the table. Meanwhile, Remo Stars dropped to second place after a 3-1 loss to Plateau United at the New Jos Stadium. Ebuka Anthony netted twice, and Abubakar Adamu scored for Plateau United, while Remo Stars’ consolation goal came from substitute Jabar Malik.

New England manager Thomas Tuchel has revealed he declined the opportunity to manage Manchester United. Tuchel had been linked to the Old Trafford position amid ongoing uncertainty surrounding Erik ten Hag’s future.

The former Chelsea and PSG coach reportedly held discussions with Manchester United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe over the summer. Despite this, Tuchel chose to lead the England national team, making him only the third non-Englishman to do so.

When asked about his decision, Tuchel explained, “The approach by John [McDermott] and Mark [Bullingham] was quick and confidential. It was a decision for this job, not against anything else.”

Lionel Messi, the legendary captain of Argentina, has acknowledged that he may be nearing the end of his international career after delivering a masterclass performance in a 2026 World Cup qualifier against Bolivia.

On Tuesday night, Messi dazzled fans at the Monumental de Núñez Stadium, scoring a hat-trick and assisting two more goals as Argentina crushed Bolivia 6-0.

The win was yet another statement of Argentina’s dominance under the leadership of the man who led them to World Cup glory in Qatar in 2022.

After the match, Messi reflected on his journey with the national team, admitting that he is soaking in every moment with the awareness that these might be his final appearances for Argentina.

“It’s wonderful to play here, surrounded by the affection of our supporters,” Messi said.

He added that hearing the fans chant his name fills him with emotion, reinforcing the special bond he shares with the Argentine people.

Despite his brilliant performance, the 36-year-old Inter Miami star was candid about his future.

When asked whether he would play in the 2026 World Cup, Messi didn’t provide a definitive answer but left the door open for a possible farewell.

“I haven’t set any specific date or deadline for my future,” he explained. “I’m just enjoying every bit of this experience.

I’m more emotional than ever and I’m feeling all the love from the people because I know these could be my last games.”

Messi’s comments have ignited speculation about whether the iconic forward, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers in history, will be part of the 2026 World Cup squad.

Having already cemented his place as a national hero after leading Argentina to their third World Cup title in 2022, his retirement from international football would mark the end of an era.

However, Messi seems focused on embracing every moment and cherishing the connection with his fans.

His journey with the Argentina national team has been filled with both triumph and heartbreak, from the disappointments of losing multiple Copa América finals to the pinnacle of winning the World Cup.

Messi’s emotional bond with Argentina’s passionate fan base has only deepened over time, and with each passing game, fans across the world are left wondering how many more times they’ll get to witness Messi’s magic in an Argentina jersey.

As Argentina looks ahead to more qualifiers on the road to the 2026 World Cup, all eyes will be on Messi.

Whether or not he continues beyond this cycle, his impact on the national team and the sport will remain unforgettable.

For now, Messi is enjoying the ride, leaving fans to savor each remaining moment of his extraordinary career.