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FIFA has imposed sanctions on Nigeria following administrative irregularities during the World Cup play-off matches. The decision also affected the Democratic Republic of Congo, with both nations cited for breaches related to match organization and compliance. The sanctions include fines and warnings, with FIFA emphasizing the need for strict adherence to international football regulations. The development has sparked criticism among Nigerian football stakeholders, who argue that administrative lapses continue to harm the country’s global reputation. The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has pledged to review its internal processes to prevent future violations.

Iran’s football federation is “negotiating” with FIFA to relocate the country’s first-round matches at the World Cup to Mexico from the United States, citing the conflict in the Middle East, Iran’s embassy in Mexico said Monday. Iran’s participation at this summer’s finals in the United States, Canada and Mexico has been thrown into doubt since the war began late last month. “When (US President Donald) Trump has explicitly stated that he cannot ensure the security of the Iranian national team, we will certainly not travel to America,” Iranian football chief Mehdi Taj said in remarks posted on the embassy’s X account. “We are currently negotiating with FIFA to hold Iran’s matches in the World Cup in Mexico.” Iran are scheduled to face New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles, followed by Egypt in Seattle. The team’s base camp for the tournament is currently slated to be located in Tucson, Arizona. Abolfazl Pasandideh, Iran’s ambassador to Mexico, on Monday denounced “the US go...

The 2026 World Open Snooker Tournament officially began in China, featuring top players from around the globe, including Ronnie O’Sullivan and Judd Trump. Fans flocked to the arena, eager to witness the high-level competition. Matches have been closely contested, with emerging stars challenging veterans in unexpected upsets. The tournament is expected to draw a global television audience, highlighting the sport’s growing popularity in Asia. Organizers emphasized the role of technology in enhancing the viewing experience, including advanced camera angles, live analytics, and interactive fan engagement tools, making the event a milestone for modern sports broadcasting.

Several prominent players, including Mark Selby, withdrew from the World Open due to medical reasons, affecting tournament scheduling and matchups. Officials stated that the health and safety of players were the top priority. The withdrawals caused reshuffling of fixtures, creating opportunities for other competitors and altering predicted outcomes. Fans expressed disappointment online but largely supported the emphasis on player well-being. Medical teams are working closely with remaining participants, implementing stricter health protocols and regular checks to ensure that the tournament continues safely for both players and audiences.

World football governing body FIFA has sanctioned Nigeria and Democratic Republic of the Congo following incidents that occurred during their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying play-off match. The disciplinary action came after investigations into crowd disturbances and breaches of safety regulations during the highly tense encounter between the two national teams. According to FIFA’s disciplinary committee, some supporters engaged in crowd disorder and unsafe behaviour, which violated stadium security rules set by the organization. Officials stated that the behaviour of fans and failure to fully control the situation by match organizers prompted the governing body to impose sanctions. As part of the punishment, both football federations may face financial fines, warnings, and stricter security measures for future international matches. FIFA emphasized that the decision is intended to maintain discipline, protect players and fans, and ensure that international football matches ...

Joan Laporta was reelected as Barcelona president on Sunday, defeating Victor Font to stay in charge of the Catalan giants until 2031. The charismatic 63-year-old, who also beat out Font in the 2021 election, will reclaim his position in July after resigning a few weeks ago as part of the electoral process. Around 42 percent of Barcelona club members voted — translating to 48,480 votes. Laporta triumphed by 68.18 percent to Font’s 29.78 percent. “This result makes us very happy and gives us a lot of strength, a lot, so much that it leaves us speechless,” Laporta told reporters. “No one will stop us. I am sure that in the coming years, as I’ve said to you, we have some thrilling times ahead.” Laporta said the club would focus on completing the partially-rebuilt Camp Nou stadium, now slated for completion in 2027, a year later than planned, as well as continuing to defend the club against perceived outside attacks. “(Club members) have voted for our proposal, which was that a...

FIFA has sanctioned both Nigeria and DR Congo following disciplinary incidents recorded during a 2026 World Cup qualifying fixture between the two countries. In its latest disciplinary overview for World Cup qualifying matches, the world football governing body said both federations were found guilty of separate offences during the encounter played on November 16, 2025. Nigeria was punished for a breach relating to order and security at matches after spectators were found to have thrown objects during the game. The offence falls under Article 17 and Article 17.2.b of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, with the NFF fined 1,000 Swiss francs. The Congolese federation received a stiffer penalty after its supporters were found to have used laser pointers or similar electronic devices during the match. The act contravened Article 17.2.d of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, prompting FIFA to fine the DR Congo Football Association 5,000 Swiss francs. FIFA said disciplinary decisions are taken b...

A 16-year-old footballer from Arsenal F.C. academy has made headlines after becoming one of the youngest goal scorers in the history of the Premier League. The teenager’s goal has drawn comparisons with legends such as Wayne Rooney, who previously held similar youth records. The achievement is already being described as one of the biggest football moments of the season. 

Nigeria’s football community is mourning the death of Henry Nwosu, a member of the national team that won the 1980 Africa Cup of Nations. The former midfielder reportedly passed away after a period of illness, sending shockwaves across the football world.  Tributes have poured in from former teammates, football administrators, and fans across Nigeria. Many described him as one of the pioneers who helped elevate Nigerian football on the international stage.  Sports analysts say his legacy will continue to inspire young players across the country as Nigeria reflects on the achievements of the 1980 AFCON-winning generation. 

Star striker Sam Kerr said she was aiming to play at a fifth World Cup in 2027 after Australia became the first team to qualify for the global showpiece in Brazil. Joe Montemurro’s side booked their spot at the tournament for a ninth consecutive time by edging North Korea 2-1 on Friday to make the semi-finals of the Women’s Asian Cup in Perth. Chelsea forward Kerr, Australia’s most prolific goal-scorer, captained the Matildas to the World Cup semi-finals in 2023 and aims to join an elite group by playing at her fifth in Brazil. “For us as a footballing team, it’s the pinnacle,” said 32-year-old Kerr, who scored the winner against North Korea. “So to put our team there is an amazing feeling. “Brazil is a footballing nation. What an amazing World Cup to go to. It will be incredible. I hope I’m there. Just the fact that we all get the opportunity to be on the biggest stage is incredible.” Arsenal’s Caitlin Foord and Leicester City’s Emily van Egmond, both regular first-team st...

Nigerian sprinter Ella Onojuvwevwo has set a new African indoor 400-meter record at the NCAA Indoor Track and Field Championships in the United States.  Her performance placed her among the top athletes globally this season and strengthened Nigeria’s reputation in international athletics. Sports analysts say the achievement is a major boost for Nigerian track and field ahead of upcoming international competitions. The record-breaking run has drawn praise from sports authorities and fans across Nigeria.

FIFA has approved four new rule changes ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.  The changes aim to improve match fairness, officiating accuracy, and game flow. Football authorities believe the reforms will modernize the sport and enhance the viewing experience for fans worldwide. More details about the rule adjustments will be released before the tournament begins.

Troubled Tottenham head to Liverpool on Sunday searching for salvation in their increasingly desperate fight against relegation. Arsenal can move closer to their first Premier League title for 22 years with a win over Everton, while Manchester United meet Aston Villa in a crucial clash in the race for Champions League qualification. AFP Sport looks at three key talking points ahead of this weekend’s action: Spurs must ‘dig deeper’ to survive In grave danger of playing in England’s second tier for the first time since 1977-78, Tottenham could hardly have picked a worse venue for their latest attempt to ease the threat of relegation. If third-bottom West Ham beat Manchester City on Saturday, Igor Tudor’s 16th-placed side will have slipped even closer to oblivion by the time they face Liverpool at Anfield. Beaten in their last six games in all competitions for the first time in their history, Tottenham are just one point ahead of West Ham and fourth-bottom Nottingham Forest, w...

By Enitan Abdultawab Aryna Sabalenka continued her strong run at the Indian Wells Open after defeating Canadian teenager Victoria Mboko 7–6(0), 6–4 to book a place in the semi-finals. The world number one was pushed by the 19-year-old, who had enjoyed a breakthrough run at the tournament, but Sabalenka held her nerve in key moments. The Belarusian dominated the first-set tie-break, winning all seven points, before sealing the match with a decisive break in the second set. Sabalenka has yet to drop a set in the tournament and will now face Linda Noskova, the 14th seed, for a place in the final. On the other hand, Elina Svitolina reached the semi-finals for the second time at Indian Wells after defeating second seed Iga Swiatek 6–2, 4–6, 6–4. Meanwhile, Elena Rybakina booked her place in the last four with a 6–1, 7–6(4) win over Jessica Pegula, setting up a semi-final clash with Svitolina. In the men’s category, Daniil Medvedev progressed to the semi-finals after a 6–1, 7–5 v...

Nigeria’s women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, started their FIBA World Cup qualifier campaign strongly with a 70–37 victory over Colombia. The team dominated the game from the first quarter and maintained control throughout the match.  The victory boosts Nigeria’s chances of qualifying for the next Women’s Basketball World Cup and demonstrates the team’s continued dominance in African basketball.  Coaches and fans praised the players for their discipline and strong defensive performance during the match. 

Iranian women footballers claiming asylum in Australia evacuated from their safe house on Wednesday after one team member changed her mind and revealed their location to the Iranian embassy, Canberra said. Seven members of Iran’s visiting women’s football delegation had sought sanctuary in Australia after they were branded “traitors” at home for refusing to sing the national anthem. But one member of the group had second thoughts after speaking to other players who had turned down asylum in favour of returning to Iran, Australian Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke said. The woman exposed the location of the other aslyum seekers when she contacted Iran’s embassy in Australia. “As a result of that it meant the Iranian embassy now knew the location of where everybody was,” Burke said. “I immediately gave them instructions for people to be moved and that has been dealt with immediately.” Australian officials had “made sure this was her decision”, Burke said. There were fears male...

By Ayobami Okerinde Flying Eagles midfielder Daniel Daga has been sentenced to six months in prison by a Norwegian court after being found guilty of committing a sexual act without consent. The 19-year-old, who plays for Norwegian club Molde FK, was convicted on Tuesday and ordered to pay 10,000 Norwegian kroner in legal costs, according to a report by TV 2 Norway. The case stems from an incident reported to Norwegian police in late April 2025. Daga was later charged under Section 297 of the Norwegian Penal Code, which deals with sexual activity without consent. During court proceedings, prosecutors requested a six-month prison sentence, a request the court eventually upheld. Public reports have provided limited details about the incident. Daga’s lawyer, Astrid Bolstad, said the player was disappointed with the ruling and maintains that the encounter was consensual, adding that the ruling is not yet final and that the player intends to appeal. “He is very upset about the ve...

The Nigerian domestic football season has entered a decisive stage as clubs battle for top positions in the league table. Several teams are competing fiercely for continental qualification spots and the championship title. Football analysts say the competition has become more unpredictable this season, with emerging teams challenging traditional league powerhouses. The improved competitiveness has also drawn larger crowds to stadiums across the country. League officials have expressed optimism that the growing excitement around the competition will attract more sponsorship and investment into Nigerian football. Supporters are hopeful that the league’s development will also help produce more talent for the national team

Nigeria’s sports authorities have intensified preparations ahead of the upcoming Commonwealth Games, with athletes across multiple disciplines entering final training camps. Officials say the goal is to ensure that Team Nigeria is well prepared to compete strongly against other Commonwealth nations. Training sessions have been taking place in several camps across the country. Particular attention has been placed on athletics and boxing, two sports where Nigeria has traditionally performed well. Coaches believe the athletes have shown promising form during recent trials and practice sessions. Sports administrators say improved preparation and better support for athletes could lead to stronger performances at the competition. The sports ministry has also emphasized the importance of discipline and teamwork as athletes prepare to represent the country on the international stage. Officials are hopeful that the Nigerian contingent will return with several medals and improve the ...

On Thursday, I represented the President of the Cycling Federation of Nigeria, Engr. Giadomenico Massari at a Press Conference to debunk the falsehood being peddled by the country’s star cyclist and Olympian, Ese Ukpeseraye. I bring the CFN’s position on the issue as delivered by me at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja last Thursday. Gentlemen of the press, this Press Conference was called to address the falsehoods and misinformation arising from the recent interview granted by one of our female cyclist, Ese Lovina Ukpeseraye. She falsely accused the Cycling Federation and the National Sports Commission of abandoning her. The purpose of this press conference is not to engage in any controversy with the athlete, but rather to set the records straight. There are concrete facts that the Federation has invested significantly in the development of Miss Ukpeseraye, particularly in the build-up to the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, largely through the personal influence, ...