Sport

Russia Coach Says His Team Played Well Despite Draw with Super Eagles

Published

1 year ago

June 7, 2025

Photo source: Google

Russia’s head coach Valery Karpin praised his team’s performance after their 1-1 draw with Nigeria in the friendly at Moscow’s Luzhniki Stadium on Friday. The game saw Semi Ajayi score an own goal to give Russia the lead, but Nigeria fought back through Tolu Arokodare’s equalizer.

Karpin highlighted Russia’s high pressing and direct style of play, as well as their strong defensive effort, which limited Nigeria to very few shots on target. He also singled out goalkeeper Maduka Okoye for making several important saves during the match.

“I can’t recall a single moment where we were really threatened except for a mistake during a play out,” Karpin said after the game. “Nigeria didn’t create much danger, but we had our chances. Melekhin and Barinov both came close after set pieces. The goal we conceded wasn’t really from pressure — it was just a lapse.”

Russia had previously beaten Zambia 5-0 in another friendly, but Karpin acknowledged that Nigeria and Cameroon are at a higher level than Zambia and Kenya. “They’re all strong, athletic teams, but Cameroon and Nigeria stand out with higher quality and power. The FIFA rankings back this up. You just can’t compare them. Nigeria and Cameroon make the games more exciting,” he added.

Entertainment

Every Artist Who Performed at the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final

Published

22 hours ago

July 20, 2026

Ese Ohwofa

The 2026 FIFA World Cup may have come to an end, but fans are still talking about its historic entertainment lineup.

From the opening ceremony to the first-ever FIFA World Cup halftime show and the closing ceremony, the tournament featured performances from some of the biggest artists in the world.

Some of the performers included:

Madonna
BTS
Shakira
Burna Boy
Justin Bieber
Chris Martin (Coldplay)
Jennifer Hudson
Robbie Williams
Nicole Scherzinger
Laura Pausini
Post Malone
PS22 Chorus
Gustavo Dudamel and orchestra

Sport

Thierry Henry Reacts to Messi’s Emotional World Cup Final Moment

Published

1 day ago

July 20, 2026

Ese Ohwofa

Football legend Thierry Henry has reacted to Lionel Messi’s emotional response after Argentina lost the 2026 FIFA World Cup final to Spain.

It can be recalled that Spain defeated Argentina to lift the 2026 World Cup trophy. While Spain celebrated their victory, cameras captured Messi in tears after the final whistle.

Henry said Messi’s reaction showed just how much the game still means to him.

“Look at what it means to him. If you ever had any doubt about whether the guy still has any fire in his belly, look at him. Look at what it means.”

He added “You won already. And look at the guy. Look at the passion, desire and the love that he has for his country and how much he puts into it.”

Sport

Rio Ferdinand Predicts Spain vs Argentina World Cup Final

Published

2 days ago

July 19, 2026

Ese Ohwofa

Football legend Rio Ferdinand has shared his prediction ahead of the FIFA World Cup final between Spain and Argentina.

While many have backed different teams to lift the trophy, Ferdinand said some fans have underestimated Argentina’s quality.

He said “I find it difficult to bet against Argentina. They have demonstrated remarkable character, determination, and resilience. I believe people have been somewhat disrespectful by calling them an average team; they are not.”

He continued “I think it is inappropriate and disrespectful. If you are saying that, you clearly do not watch enough football, as they are an excellent team, and in challenging situations, they become even better and stronger. However, I do believe Spain will win the match.”