Sport
Sodje Criticizes Nigerians For Celebrating South Africa’s FIFA Punishment
Former Super Eagles defender Samuel Sodje has frowned at Nigerians celebrating FIFA’s decision to dock South Africa three points, calling the reaction “embarrassing.”
On Monday, FIFA announced the punishment after Bafana Bafana fielded an ineligible player, Teboho Mokoena, in their 2026 World Cup qualifier against Lesotho in March 2025. Alongside the points deduction, three goals were also taken off South Africa’s tally.
The ruling has reignited hope among some Nigerian fans, with the Super Eagles now just three points behind South Africa in the group, sitting on 11 points.
But Sodje believes the excitement is misplaced. “South Africa broke the rules and were rightly punished, that’s normal,” he told Soccernet. “What I find surprising is Nigerians treating this like major news. Honestly, it’s embarrassing.”
Chelsea player Enzo Fernández is in discussions to join Manchester City. This information was revealed by Fabrizio Romano, who shared that the two clubs are discussing a potential deal.
He wrote: “Enzo Fernández has a verbal agreement with Manchester City on personal terms.
“Deal depends on club-to-club decision, as #MCFC have not sent an official bid yet, but contacts will take place soon; decision on price is up to Chelsea.
“Enzo could be out again this weekend.”
Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca mentions his captains for the team. He mentions Rúben Dias and Erling Haaland.
He shared “We have experienced players. For sure, we have leaders. Now we need to wait four or five more days until the transfer window closes to see if we can add one or two more captains to Ruben [Dias] and Erling , who at the moment are the two captains.”
Maresca confirmed the pair as part of his leadership group ahead of the 2026/27 season, with two more captains expected to be selected after the transfer window closes.
Chelsea manager speaks on the team and shares thoughts on considering a change in goalkeepers, giving another goalkeeper, Mike Penders, a chance.
“Penders is part of the squad, so he has an opportunity. We will decide and then I am giving the team tomorrow to the players, so I prefer to respect that they know first.”
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