Sport
Benzema Defends Vinicius and Questions Rodri’s Ballon d’Or Win
Al-Ittihad striker Karim Benzema believes Vinicius Jr. was the rightful winner of the 2024 Ballon d’Or. Benzema, who has been a mentor to Vinicius during their years at Real Madrid, expressed disappointment that the Brazilian talent didn’t take home the trophy.
In the recent Ballon d’Or results, Vinicius finished as runner-up to Manchester City’s Rodri, who was awarded the prestigious title during a ceremony held in Paris, France.
However, the decision sparked controversy, leading Vinicius and his Real Madrid teammates to skip the event entirely, a silent protest over what they felt was an unjust outcome.
Benzema shared his views on the situation, explaining he had recently spoken with Vinicius, who was understandably disappointed by the result.
“I talked to Vini, and he’s down… which is normal,” Benzema remarked. “He deserved to be recognized as the best.”
The former Real Madrid forward also commented on Rodri’s victory, emphasizing that while he respects the Spanish midfielder, he believes Rodri’s style lacks the electrifying impact Vinicius brings to the game.
Benzema candidly stated, “Rodri is a good player, but I’m watching from home, and there’s nothing in his game that makes you go ‘wow.’”
This year’s Ballon d’Or decision has sparked a wider conversation about how players are evaluated for the prestigious award and whether the voting system accurately reflects the skills and achievements of top talents.
Ghanaian Referee, Daniel Laryea, who officiated the Nigeria vs Morocco game in AFCON gets interviews and shared his experience.
The referee reveals how it was his first time in a semi final and was kind of nervous. “I’ve been to three AFCON tournaments, but this is the first time I’ve been in a semi-final.”
“So when coaches choose you for that game, they know your skills and what you can do. But of course, you feel a little nervous because of the level of the match.”
Nigerian Footballer, Bright Osayi-Samuel , react to match as Super Eagles lose to Morocco.
The player calls out CAF for their referee appointment. He shares how the Ghanaian Referee was tough on the field and made bad choices.
“One thing I would say is that the referee was really bad. I’m not saying that was the reason we lost. He is making really bad choices and it’s really tough to watch because we have referees like this in big games like today.
He then praises Morocco for a good game “But Morocco did really well.”
Super Eagles Coach, Eric Chelle speaks and shared why Nigeria lost the AFCON match to Morocco.
It can be noted that the match was held on the 14th of January, 2026. Nigeria lost the match with a draft in the penalties, 4-2.
During a recent interview, Chelle shared his observations about the match and shared why they lost.
“From a technical point of view, the Super Eagles weren’t at the same level as we displayed in our other matches.”
“I don’t want to say the reason was fatigue, but the truth is that we lacked movement and power.”
‘Stop Kissing Babies Mouth-to-Mouth’ — Angela Okorie Sparks Debate Online
‘May His Soul Rest in Peace’ — Destiny Boy Reportedly Passes Away
Former Nickelodeon Star Kianna Underwood Dies After Hit-and-Run Incident at 33
-
Entertainment11 hours agoFormer Nickelodeon Star Kianna Underwood Dies After Hit-and-Run Incident at 33
-
Entertainment11 hours ago‘May His Soul Rest in Peace’ — Destiny Boy Reportedly Passes Away
-
Sport11 hours agoI Was a Bit Nervous’ — Referee Daniel Laryea Reflects on AFCON Semi-Final Experience
-
Entertainment11 hours ago‘Stop Kissing Babies Mouth-to-Mouth’ — Angela Okorie Sparks Debate Online