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World Cup Blow: Osimhen Out Of S/Africa, Benin Republic Qualifiers

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Napoli’s key striker, Victor Osimhen, will be absent from Nigeria’s crucial 2026 World Cup qualification matches against South Africa and the Benin Republic.

Despite initially being named in the squad, the reigning CAF Footballer of the Year has been ruled out due to injury as confirmed by the team on Tuesday.

In light of this setback, Super Eagles’ Coach Finidi George has swiftly called up Enugu Rangers’ left-back, Kenneth Igboke, to fill the void for the upcoming qualifiers.

A tweet on the super eagles X handle reads “Camp update: Africa Player of the Year, Victor Osimhen is injured and out for 4 weeks.

“Super Eagles’ Coach Finidi George has called up Enugu Rangers’ left back Kenneth Igboke for the WC qualifiers against South Africa and Benin Rep.”

Nigeria’s aspirations for World Cup qualification suffer a significant setback with the absence of Victor Osimhen.

The Super Eagles currently occupy third place in Group C, trailing behind Rwanda and South Africa. Meanwhile, Benin Republic, with just one point, anchors the group standings.

Rwanda leads with four points, while Lesotho and Zimbabwe each hold two points.

Osimhen, age 25, a pivotal figure in Nigeria’s recent success, notably in their second-place finish at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), has been sidelined since the tournament.

His absence from Nigeria’s friendly matches against Ghana and Mali was due to injury.

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Ten Hag Pens Hearty Farewell To Man U Fans

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Erik ten Hag has signed off at Manchester United, after being relieved of his duties as Manager of the club, with an emotional letter to fans and employees.

From the letter, the sacked manager wished the club well. “I wish all Manchester United fans nothing but success, trophies and glory,” he stated.

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He wrote, “Dear fans,

“Let me start by thanking you. Thank you for always being there for the club. Whether it was at a game far away or a tough match at Old Trafford, your support has been unshakeable. The atmosphere at Old Trafford has always been electrifying, thanks to you. I felt it many times. Also in away games, it gave the team and me an incredible feeling to hear the United chants taking over the opponents’ stadiums, whether the game was in England, Europe or during the summer tours.

“I always enjoyed meeting Manchester United fans throughout the world. Walking the streets and being able to chat with fans in England, Europe, Asia, Australia, the USA – you inspired me and radiated a strong sense of unity. That’s what makes United supporters so special.

“I want to thank you for giving me this feeling and for your support. I also want to thank the staff in every department of the club for their unwavering support in good times and bad.

“We won two trophies – achievements that I will cherish for the rest of my life. Of course, my dream was to bring more trophies to the cabinet. Unfortunately, that dream has come to an end.

“I wish all Manchester United fans nothing but success, trophies and glory. Your support and the warmth I received from everyone at the club helped me feel at home.

“Thank you for this chapter in my life.

“Erik”.

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Valencia Flood: Real Madrid, Other Matches Suspended

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The Spanish football federation (RFEF) has postponed Real Madrid’s La Liga away game against Valencia, initially scheduled for this weekend, due to catastrophic flooding that has claimed more than 95 lives in eastern Spain.

The suspension announced on Thursday also extends to Villarreal’s home match against Rayo Vallecano, as well as three second-division matches involving teams from flood-affected areas.

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The RFEF acted at La Liga’s request to delay these matches, following devastating flash floods that have impacted the Valencia region.

“It has been agreed to postpone matches that were to be played in professional and non-professional competitions, both in 11-a-side football and in indoor football (in the Valencia region),” the federation stated.

The federation had already postponed several midweek Copa del Rey first-round matches, including Valencia’s tie against Parla Escuela, in response to the widespread destruction.

As Spain mourns the lives lost, a moment of silence will be observed this weekend at football matches nationwide, including the league leaders Barcelona’s Catalan derby against Espanyol on Sunday.

 

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Olayinka Undergoes Surgery, Set For Long Road To Recovery

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Nigeria international, Peter Olayinka is set to miss significant game time after undergoing surgery on an Achilles tendon injury, Red Star Belgrade has confirmed.

The forward sustained the injury during last week’s UEFA Champions League match against AS Monaco, forcing him off the field early.

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In an official statement, the Serbian club revealed that Olayinka had surgery in Finland, performed by a renowned specialist.

“Peter Olayinka was successfully operated on in Finland by a famous doctor, following an Achilles tendon injury he suffered in Monaco,” Red Star’s statement read.

“The surgery went smoothly, and we now await his recovery period to assess his return timeline. We wish him a swift recovery and hope to see him back on the field soon.”

Olayinka, who has contributed two goals and two assists across six league appearances this season, is expected to be sidelined for six to nine months as he recovers.

His absence will be felt both by Red Star Belgrade and Nigeria’s national team, where he has been a valuable asset.

The extended recovery period means Olayinka will miss much of Red Star’s season and a portion of Nigeria’s upcoming international fixtures.

 

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