The Super Eagles have confirmed the absence of first-choice goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali from Monday’s final 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Rwanda following the death of his father, Chief Godspower Onyekam Abali.

Team Administrator Dayo Enebi Achor announced the decision, stating that Nwabali has been excused to mourn his father but will still attend the match to support his teammates.

“He has been excused from the game. However, the player will come to watch the match and cheer his teammates on,” Achor said.

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Biztellers reports that the 27-year-old goalkeeper announced the passing of Chief Abali, popularly known as Chief Onyeogazrim I of Okwuzi, on Friday.

Chief Abali, a former chief surveyor, died at the age of 67.

In Nwabali’s absence, Super Eagles head coach Augustine Eguavoen will choose between Italy-based Maduka Okoye and Ethiopia-based Amas Obasogie for the starting role in goal.

The Super Eagles, who have already secured qualification for the 2025 AFCON tournament, will face Rwanda at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo.

Boxing legend Mike Tyson’s much-hyped return to the ring ended in a one-sided defeat on Friday night, as 27-year-old Jake Paul cruised to a unanimous decision victory over the 58-year-old former heavyweight champion.

The eight-round exhibition at the AT&T Stadium, which drew 70,000 fans and millions of global viewers, saw Paul dominate from start to finish, with scorecards of 80-72, 79-73, and 79-73.

Tyson, fighting professionally for the first time in 19 years, landed just 18 punches out of 97 thrown, compared to Paul’s 78 connections from 278 attempts.

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Paul, known for his transformation from YouTuber to prizefighter, relied on his superior speed and footwork to outmaneuver the aging Tyson.

A flurry of punches in the third round had Tyson in trouble, but Paul was unable to deliver the knockout he had promised during a tense weigh-in on Thursday, where Tyson slapped him.

The former heavyweight king appeared a shadow of his prime self, managing only brief moments of offense while Paul controlled the pace.

In the closing seconds of the final round, Paul even bowed in respect to Tyson before the bell rang.

“First and foremost, Mike Tyson, it’s such an honor. Let’s give it up for Mike,” Paul said after the fight, embracing Tyson in the ring. “He’s the greatest to ever do it.

“He’s the GOAT, he’s a legend. I’m inspired by him, and we wouldn’t be here today without him. This man is an icon, and it’s just an honor to be able to fight him.”

Tyson, despite the defeat, expressed satisfaction with his effort. “I came to fight,” he said. “I didn’t prove anything to anybody, only to myself… I’m just happy with what I can do.”

Fighting with a brace on his right knee, Tyson insisted his performance wasn’t hampered by the injury. “I can’t use that as an excuse. If I did, I wouldn’t be in here,” he said.

The event, broadcast live by Netflix, reportedly earned Tyson a $20 million payday.

While some fans celebrated the nostalgic spectacle, others criticized the fight as exploitative, citing concerns about Tyson’s age and health following a recent medical scare where he suffered an ulcer flare-up during a flight.

Tyson, however, dismissed his critics. “People are jealous I’m still a draw. They don’t want to see me shine,” he said, defiantly defending his decision to return.

Paul’s performance garnered praise from Tyson, who admitted the younger fighter exceeded expectations. “He’s a very good fighter,” Tyson said.

Asked if he would step into the ring again, the 58-year-old left the door open. “I don’t know. It depends on the situation. I don’t think this is my last fight.”

Paul Pogba’s second spell at Juventus has officially ended after the club announced on Friday that they had mutually agreed to terminate his contract, effective November 30, 2024.

The decision comes after a series of setbacks, including a doping suspension that was recently reduced.

Pogba, 31, had been handed a four-year suspension by the Italian anti-doping authority (NADO) after testing positive for testosterone in August 2023, following Juventus’ opening Serie A match of the season.

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However, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) reduced his ban to 18 months last month, accepting his claim that the failed test was caused by an incorrectly prescribed supplement.

CAS also stated that Pogba was not without fault, as a professional footballer, he should have been more careful in managing his supplements.

Despite the reduced ban, Juventus confirmed that they would part ways with the French midfielder, whose return to Turin in 2022 from Manchester United had been plagued by injuries and off-field issues.

In a statement, the club announced that Pogba’s contract, originally set to expire in 2026, would be terminated early.

In an emotional message to fans on social media, Pogba thanked Juventus, saying, “You gave me a lot, more than what I could ever say, and I’ll always keep with me the love you showed me. You’ll always be in my heart. Good luck.”

Pogba’s time at Juventus was short-lived. After rejoining the club in 2022, he made only 10 appearances due to injury and his doping ban.

He also missed the 2022 World Cup in Qatar due to a knee issue.

Additionally, Pogba was the victim of an extortion scheme involving his brother, Mathias, and five others, all of whom are set to stand trial.

Juventus have since revamped their squad, investing over €120 million in midfielders Teun Koopmeiners, Douglas Luiz, and Khephren Thuram.

The club is currently sixth in Serie A, two points behind leaders Napoli.