Sports
U20WC: Flying Eagles Stun Italy 2-0, Advances To Round Of 16
In an outstanding match during the second matchday of the 2023 FIFA U20 World Cup in Argentina, the Flying Eagles emerged victorious over Italy.
Nigeria’s team showcased remarkable skills as Salem Fago and Jude Sunday both scored their debut goals, leading their country to a 2-0 triumph in the Group D encounter held at the Estadio Malvinas Argentinas on Wednesday evening.
Despite being relatively ineffective during the 53 minutes he spent on the field in the Flying Eagles’ 2-1 victory over the Dominican Republic on Sunday night, the 20-year-old player emerged as the hero when Nigeria secured their spot in the tournament’s knockout rounds with their second consecutive win.
Daniel Daga had the sight of the goal in the right minute but his low drive went off target.
In the 15th minute, Nigeria was awarded their first corner kick, and Salim Fago had an opportunity to score with a header, but unfortunately, he directed the ball over the crossbar despite a well-executed delivery.
Italy came close to scoring in the 21st minute when Pafundi skillfully evaded two Nigerian defenders and delivered a low cross.
Cesare Casadei connected with the cross and unleashed a quick shot that struck the crossbar. Nigeria swiftly cleared the ball after the close call.
Jude Sunday, who proved to be the most thrilling Nigerian attacker, had a promising chance just before the half-hour mark as he found some space on the edge of the box.
However, his final shot narrowly missed the target, whistling past the left post.
Shortly after, Agbalaka got at the end of another Nigerian corner but he was only able to head wide.
The Flying Eagles finally worked the Italian goalkeeper after Fago ran unto Abdullahi’s throughball and lashed a fierce drive that the goalie pushed past for a corner.
In a critical moment, Agbalaka was involved in a potential handball inside the box, which could have resulted in a penalty for Italy. However, VAR (Video Assistant Referee) intervened and saved Nigeria as it detected an earlier handball committed by an Italian player.
Towards the end of the first half, Aniagboso showcased his alertness by skillfully diverting a powerful long-range shot over the post, resulting in a corner for Italy. However, the corner failed to yield any significant opportunity for the Italian team.
The Flying Eagles demonstrated an impressive defensive performance, successfully thwarting the Italian team’s attacks.
It was particularly noteworthy considering Italy’s previous performance, where they scored three goals within the first 30 minutes against Brazil on matchday one.
Just seconds into the second half, Italy posed a threat, launching an attack that almost resulted in a goal.
However, Nigeria’s resilient defense managed to clear the ball off the goal line just in time, preventing it from trickling into the net after a well-executed interplay.
In response to Italy’s close call, Nigeria reacted swiftly as the team’s captain, Bameyi, unleashed a powerful strike from 25 yards, testing the goalkeeper who was forced to make a save as he felt the sting in his palms.
Following a period of intense back-and-forth play between the two teams, Nigeria finally managed to break the deadlock on the hour mark.
During a decisive moment, a well-executed cross found its way to Samson Lawal inside the box.
Lawal skillfully evaded a challenge and displayed excellent precision by finding an unmarked Fago, who then confidently headed the ball into the net, securing the opening goal of the match for Nigeria.
Robin van Persie, the former forward for Arsenal and Manchester United, has taken on his first senior managerial role as the new head coach of SC Heerenveen.
The Dutch club announced his appointment on their website on Thursday.
The 40-year-old enjoyed a distinguished playing career with Feyenoord, Arsenal, Manchester United, and Fenerbahçe, retiring in 2019.
Known as RVP, van Persie began his coaching career at Feyenoord, where he worked as a specialist and youth coach and co-headed the Feyenoord U-18 team.
The former left-footed striker, fondly remembered as one of the best forwards at the Emirates Stadium in North London, expressed his passion for coaching and his commitment to developing SC Heerenveen upon his appointment.
He said “The coaching profession is comprehensive and challenging, and I practise it with great passion and pleasure. I would like to continue my development and the role of head coach fits in perfectly with that goal. I am, therefore, pleased with the opportunity that SC Heerenveen offers me.
“SC Heerenveen is a very nice Premier League club with a rich tradition and loyal supporters. It’s a fantastic challenge to contribute to the sporting ambitions and development of the club as head coach.”
At SC Heerenveen, Van Persie will reunite with general manager Ferry de Haan, an old acquaintance from their time as teammates when Feyenoord won the UEFA Cup in 2002, according to the club’s website.
Van Persie will be officially presented at SC Heerenveen on Tuesday, May 21, 2024.
Premier League clubs are poised to make a crucial decision on the future of video assistant referees (VAR) in the next season.
Wolves have taken a significant step by formally submitting a resolution to the Premier League, paving the way for a vote among the 20 member clubs during their annual general meeting in Harrogate on June 6.
In their resolution, Wolves highlighted that while VAR was initially introduced with good intentions, it has resulted in numerous unintended negative consequences that have eroded the relationship between fans and football.
Since its introduction in 2019 to aid on-field referees, VAR has been embroiled in controversy this season due to several contentious incidents.
Wolves weighed in on the matter, asserting, “The price we are paying for a small increase in accuracy is at odds with the spirit of our game.”
In response, the Premier League acknowledged the concerns but affirmed its unwavering support for VAR, pledging to collaborate with the referees’ body PGMOL to address issues and improve the technology.
Manchester United’s Raphael Varane has sent shockwaves through the footballing world with his decision to bid farewell to the club at the end of the season.
The 31-year-old French defender, who made the switch from Real Madrid in 2021 for a hefty £34 million ($43 million), announced his departure on Tuesday.
Raphael Varane, a crucial figure in Manchester United’s recent history, played a pivotal role in securing the club’s first trophy in six years, the 2023 League Cup.
However, despite this triumph, United’s current season has been nothing short of a nightmare, with the team languishing in eighth place in the Premier League and facing slim chances of European qualification, having suffered 14 defeats.
Varane’s time at United has been marred by injuries, with his last appearance dating back to a 4-3 defeat against Chelsea on April 4.
He said “To you guys, supporters of Manchester United it’s been an amazing few years to play for this special club and wear that shirt,” Varane said on social media.
“The first time I went to Old Trafford as a Man United player was insane, the atmosphere was amazing. I fell in love with the club, with the fans. You have to play for Man United to understand what that represents.
“Despite the fact we had a difficult season, I’m very positive for the future. The new owners (United co-owner Jim Ratcliffe) are coming with a clear plan and a great strategy.” he added
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag expressed optimism about Raphael Varane’s potential involvement in the FA Cup final later this month, hoping that Varane could contribute to securing another trophy for the club.
With Newcastle set to visit Old Trafford on Wednesday and United traveling to Brighton for the final day of the Premier League season on Sunday, ten Hag outlined the plan for Varane’s inclusion in the upcoming matches.
Ten Hag said on Tuesday “We plan [for] him. Definitely for the last games. Not tomorrow but we hope for Sunday and then, of course, for the last game (the FA Cup final).”
Manchester United released a statement confirming Raphael Varane’s departure from the club, praising his significant contributions characterized by “great class and experience” during his tenure.
The statement highlighted Varane’s exceptional defensive prowess, which has been a cornerstone of his impact on the team since his arrival.
Varane, heralded as one of the most decorated defenders of his era, boasts an impressive resume, including four Champions League titles and three La Liga triumphs during his illustrious 10-year stint at Real Madrid.
Additionally, he played a pivotal role in France’s 2018 World Cup victory and their journey to the final in the 2022 edition.
Despite his international success, Varane made the decision to retire from international football at the age of 29, citing the immense physical and mental pressures associated with elite-level competition.
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