Category: Sports

  • Arsenal on the Brink of Title Glory, Says Saliba

    Arsenal on the Brink of Title Glory, Says Saliba

    Arsenal go into their Champions League last-16 second leg against PSV Eindhoven “very close” to ending a five-year wait for a trophy, says defender William Saliba.

    The France centre-back wants to help his side win their first Champions League, and believes they are in a strong position to do so.

    The Gunners comfortably won the first leg 7-1 and host the Dutch side at Emirates Stadium in the return fixture on Wednesday.

    When talking about Arsenal’s title ambitions, Saliba said: “I think we are very close – we need to keep going.

    “We can’t stop working. When you’re close and don’t win trophies it’s sad. With work we will make a big step and I am sure we will arrive there.”

    Arsenal, who have never won the competition, will face the winners of the tie between Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid in the next round if they advance.

    “Everyone wants to win the Champions League. It’s a competition that’s hard to win – anything can happen,” Saliba added.

    Manager Mikel Arteta said: “It’s a competition that we have a lot of enthusiasm for. We have been very consistent and tomorrow can put us in an exciting position.

    “We are going to carry on fighting to win every game. These are the demands we put on ourselves in every competition,” he said.

    Arsenal last reached the final in 2006 when they lost 2-1 to Barcelona at Stade de France.

    Winger Gabriel Martinelli, who returned against Manchester United at the weekend from a hamstring injury, is again available for selection.

    Defender Ben White is gradually being eased back into the first team following a lengthy lay-off after knee surgery.

  • Samuel Eto’o Elected to CAF Executive Committee

    Samuel Eto’o Elected to CAF Executive Committee

    Former Cameroon football star Samuel Eto’o has been elected to the CAF executive committee by acclamation in Cairo on Wednesday.

    Eto’o, the only candidate from the Central African region, was officially elevated to the executive of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) during an extraordinary general assembly.

    The 44-year-old’s candidacy became possible only last week after the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) overturned a previous CAF ban that had excluded him from running.

    Eto’o, the president of the Cameroon Football Federation (FECAFOOT), now joins the highest decision-making body in African football.

    His ban had been imposed by CAF after he was found guilty of breaching ethical guidelines for becoming a brand ambassador for a betting company.

    The sanctions, which also included a $200,000 fine, were lifted by CAS, allowing Eto’o to return to the forefront of African football governance.

    While his career has been marked by success, including winning three Champions League titles and four African Footballer of the Year awards, Samuel Eto’o has also been involved in controversies. These included an incident in which he assaulted a football fan outside a stadium during the 2022 World Cup and a FIFA ban from attending national team matches for six months.

    Despite the controversies, Eto’o is widely regarded as one of the greatest African footballers, having helped Cameroon win the 2000 Olympic gold and the Africa Cup of Nations in 2000 and 2002.

    Later on Wednesday, CAF president Patrice Motsepe from South Africa is expected to be re-elected unopposed for a second term.

  • Paul Pogba’s Official Ban Has Ended, Now Free To Sign For Any Club

    Paul Pogba’s Official Ban Has Ended, Now Free To Sign For Any Club

    French football player Paul Pogba is eligible to return to the pitch again from Tuesday, as his 18-month suspension for doping ended, but he still needs to secure a new club.

    The former Manchester United and Juventus midfielder aims to leave behind a tumultuous three years and is looking for a new team to participate in the 2026 World Cup, with David Beckham’s MLS team Inter Miami being one of his potential options.

    The player, who has earned 91 caps for France, faced numerous injuries and inconsistent performances, ultimately leading to his exit from United in 2022. He returned for a second period at Juventus, where he continued to experience challenges.

    A positive drug test following a match in Italy in August 2023 resulted in a four-year suspension for doping, which was later reduced on appeal.

    Pogba attributed the positive test to a dietary supplement that a doctor in the United States had prescribed him.

    Juventus terminated his contract last November, but according to a member of his team, Pogba “is training at full intensity, he’s maintaining a positive attitude, and has received many offers.”

    His ultimate ambition remains next year’s World Cup, but a player who turns 32 this week would first need to earn the confidence of France coach Didier Deschamps. Pogba maintains regular communication with Deschamps, as he is “one of his advisors for sporting decisions,” per a close associate of the player.

    However, it remains to be seen who might show interest in signing a player whose last appearance was on September 3, 2023, when he took the field for Juventus.

    In January, Pogba indicated on social media that he had received “offers that weren’t very appealing,” including an option to “play in Russia, but that’s not the goal.”

    He acknowledged that obtaining a contract “doesn’t solely depend on me, but on many other factors.”

    Pogba resides in Florida and attended Inter’s inaugural MLS match against New York City on February 23 this season. He is enhancing his physical fitness with the trainer of Argentine superstar Lionel Messi.

    He has been posting images of his rigorous training sessions for his 62.7 million Instagram followers, alongside photos showcasing his other passion for fashion.

    French club Marseille has also been mentioned as a potential suitor since football director Medhi Benatia played alongside Pogba at Juventus. However, Marseille might hesitate to recruit a player whose performance may be uncertain following such an extended absence.

    Pogba’s personal life has also encountered significant turmoil; in 2022, he was the victim of a kidnapping and extortion case, leading to prison sentences for his brother Mathias and five of his childhood friends.

  • ‪Harambee Stars Coach McCarthy Unveils World Cup Qualifiers Provisional Squad‬

    ‪Harambee Stars Coach McCarthy Unveils World Cup Qualifiers Provisional Squad‬

    Kenya’s national team head coach, Benni McCarthy, has unveiled his provisional squad ahead of the crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Gambia and Gabon.

    The squad features a blend of experienced players and promising young talents, including first-time call-ups for Australia-based midfielder William Lenkupae and young prospects Kelly Madada and Andreas Odhiambo.

    Coach McCarthy’s Vision for the Squad

    Speaking about his selection, Coach Benni McCarthy emphasized the importance of assessing local-based players ahead of CHAN while identifying potential additions for the World Cup qualifiers.

    The players are expected to report to camp on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, to begin preparations for these high-stakes encounters.

    “Wednesday will be my first camp with local-based players to assess the quality for the upcoming CHAN and identify potential additions for the World Cup qualifiers against Gambia and Gabon.”

    The national team will first face Gambia on Thursday, March 20, 2025, at Stade Allasane Ouattara in Ivory Coast. This away fixture will be a critical test for the squad as they aim to secure valuable points on the road.

    Following their match against Gambia, the team will return home to take on Gabon at Nyayo Stadium in Nairobi on Sunday, March 23, 2025. The match is scheduled to kick off at 4 PM.

    Provisional Squad

    Goalkeepers

    Brian Opondo (Tusker FC), Faruk Shikhalo (Bandari FC), Ian Otieno (Richards Bay), Brian Bwire (Polokwane City)

    Defenders

    Sylvester Owino (Gor Mahia), Ronney Onyango (Gor Mahia), Alphonce Omija (Gor Mahia), Siraj Mohamed (Bandari FC), Daniel Sakari (Kenya Police FC), Levis Esambe (AFC Leopards SC), Eric Ouma (Rakow Czestochowa), Johnstone Omurwa (Kapaz fc), Joseph Okumu (Stade Reims), Collins Sichenje (FK Vojvodina), Daniel Anyembe (Viborg FF), Brian Mandela (Stellenbosch), Amos Nondi (Ararat)

    Midfielders

    Musa Katibi (Kenya Police FC), Chris Erambo (Tusker FC), Austine Odhiambo (Gor Mahia), Lawrence Juma (Gor Mahia), Kelly Madada (AFC Leopards SC), Ben Stanley (Gor Mahia), Mathias Isogoli (Mara Sugar FC), Andreas Odhiambo (Kariobangi Sharks), Alpha Onyango (Gor Mahia), Richard Odada (Dundee United), Duke Abuya (Yanga), Timothy Ouma (Slavia Prague), Apollo Otieno (Dodoma Jiji), Amos Nondi (FC Ararat), Eric Johanna (UTA Arad), Anthony Akumu (Kheybar Khorramabad), Ismail Gonzalez (Merida AD), William Lenkupae (Central Coast Mariners)

    Forwards

    Boniface Muchiri (Ulinzi Stars), James Kinyanjui (KCB FC), Alvin Mang’eni (Kenya Police FC), Mohamed Bajaber (Kenya Police FC), Eric Balecho (Tusker FC), Ryan Ogam (Tusker FC), Moses Shumah (Kakamega Homeboyz), Edward Omondi (Sofapaka FC), Elvis Rupia (Singida Blackstars), John Avire (Porto Suez), Jonah Ayunga (St Mirren), Michael Olunga (Al – Duhail), Mathew Tegisi (Pamba Jiji), Masud Juma (Esteghlal FC)

  • ‪Manchester United Unveil Plans For 100,000-Seater Stadium – The Biggest In The Country‬

    ‪Manchester United Unveil Plans For 100,000-Seater Stadium – The Biggest In The Country‬

    Manchester United have unveiled plans for a new 100,000-seater stadium – the biggest in the country.

    Minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has been vocal about his desire for a new, state-of-the-art ground ever since he purchased almost 30% of the club in February last year.

    United were previously examining whether to redevelop the historic Old Trafford but have now said they will build an entirely new stadium – next to the old one.

    A conceptual image of what the new Manchester United stadium could look like. Pic: Foster + Partners/PA
    Old Trafford stadium. File pic: Reuters

    The planned stadium would become the largest in the UK – overtaking Wembley Stadium, which has a capacity of 90,000.

    The project, undertaken in conjunction with a government regeneration task force chaired by Lord Sebastian Coe, has been developed by Foster + Partners.

    It will replace one of the world’s most iconic football stadiums and redevelop the surrounding area.

    During the announcement, Sir Jim said the ground would be the “world’s greatest” football stadium.

    He added the new stadium would be built “next to the existing site”.

    In a press release, United said the project could bring billions of pounds to the UK economy, create as many as 92,000 jobs and more than 17,000 new homes.

    The stadium is estimated to cost £2bn and Omar Berrada, United chief executive, said he was confident they could attract investors.

    Lord Norman Foster, founder of Foster + Partners, said the stadium would only take five years to build as it would utilise prefabrication.

    Pic: Foster + Partners/PA

    Offering further details about the stadium plans, Lord Norman said: “The stadium is contained by a vast umbrella, harvesting energy and rainwater, and sheltering a new public plaza that is twice the size of Trafalgar Square.”

    However, when he was asked about a timeline, Sir Jim said it would also depend on the government’s regeneration efforts as well.

    Leadership figures involved in the new stadium also stressed its wider benefits for the local area and its economy, as well as the wider North West.

    “If we get this right, the regeneration impact could be bigger and better than London 2012,” Andy Burnham, mayor of Greater Manchester, said.

    While senior figures at United have been trying to sound upbeat about the club’s future, the men’s team has struggled on the pitch this season, languishing in the bottom half of the table.

    Alongside that, under Sir Jim’s stewardship, there have been rounds of redundancies and cost-cutting measures.

    On the evening before the stadium announcement, the British billionaire spoke in a round of interviews in which he tried to justify his actions so far and talk up the club’s future.

    However, he also described some of his players as “not good enough” and admitted some were likely overpaid.

    While Sir Jim has been the face of the club’s cost-cutting approach, majority owners the Glazers are widely blamed for the malaise and the debt, with many fans accusing them of draining the club of its resources for personal gain since taking it over in 2005 and protesting against them.

    (Sky News)

  • Odibets Sponsors Boxing in Kenya with a 6 Million Shilling Investment

    Odibets Sponsors Boxing in Kenya with a 6 Million Shilling Investment

    A New Era In Kenyan Boxing: Odibets comes through for Kenya Boxing fraternity with 6 Million boost

    In a groundbreaking move that has left the sports community buzzing with excitement, Odibets, one of Kenya’s leading sports betting companies, has committed a significant sponsorship of 6 million Kenyan shillings to boxing in the country. The sponsorship marks a new chapter for the sport, which has long struggled for visibility and support despite its rich history in Kenya.

    The partnership was officially announced at the new boxing gig christened Odibets Nairobi Fight  Nights that is organized every first Tuesday of the month by Aiwex Sports, where key figures from the boxing world, Odibets representatives, and government officials gathered to celebrate the new deal. The sponsorship aims to provide financial support to local boxing tournaments, improve facilities for athletes, and offer training programs for emerging talents.

    The 6 million shilling sponsorship from Odibets is expected to address these gaps by providing a platform for upcoming boxers to showcase their skills, with the promise of better facilities and more competitive events. “We believe in the potential of Kenyan boxers,” said Odibets’ CEO, who highlighted the company’s commitment to supporting local talent. “Through this sponsorship, we aim to revitalize boxing in Kenya and help the sport reclaim its place as a source of national pride and international recognition.” Bettors can get boxing odds here.

    “Sports, especially boxing, brings Kenyans together regardless of their background, and we are proud to be a part of this journey to uplift the spirit of competition, discipline, and hard work,” Odibets Country Marketing manager Benedict Murithi stated. “We want to see boxing in Kenya rise to the level of international competition and success, and we’re ready to stand behind that vision.”

    Early this month, Odibets revamped it’s Cash-out feature will see betting fanatics be able to save money upon placing their bets on the Odibets platform. The feature is very crucial to punters as it helps one secure their wins and cut losses. The Cashout helps you decide when to end your bet thus helps you save something if you lose the bet.

  • Top of the Most Unusual Football Stadiums in the World

    Top of the Most Unusual Football Stadiums in the World

    In today’s world, football stadiums are not just places for games. They are architectural wonders that tell a story with their curves and lines, reminiscent of cathedrals from the past. Rising above urban chaos, they capture attention and inspire dreams. They serve as living testaments to the spirit of football, and they are a symbol of the game’s passion.

    Picture the setting sun painting the glass roof in hues of flame. The metal structures shimmer like ocean waves in the light. Imagine a small stadium in the heart of the city, surrounded by ancient walls that echo with the roar of thousands of fans. It’s like a living museum of football culture, where the game lives on.

    Each stadium has its own unique character. Some are bold and modern, reflecting the spirit of progress and innovation. Others have a more traditional design, honoring sporting traditions and values. And some are seamlessly integrated into the natural landscape, becoming an extension of it.

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    San Siro Stadium (Italy)

    The Giuseppe Meazza Stadium, also known as the San Siro, stands tall over Milan like a grand amphitheater and is a true temple of football. It is rightly considered one of the most iconic stadiums in the world and serves as the home ground for two legendary football clubs, AC Milan and Inter.

    The history of the stadium dates back to 1926 when it was built for the Rossoneri, receiving its original name from the neighborhood where it stands. Over time, the municipality of Milan acquired the stadium and expanded it.

    In 1979, the stadium was renamed in honor of Giuseppe Meazza, a renowned football player and two-time world champion who played for both AC Milan teams. Despite the fact that both names are used in everyday Italian speech, the historical name of San Siro remains more well-known worldwide.

    In the year 2026, the stadium will have a special occasion – the opening ceremony for the Winter Olympics will take place here. This event will add to the rich history of San Siro, which remains one of the most iconic sports venues in the world.

    San Siro is more than just a stadium; it is a footballing legend, a testament to Italian football, and a symbol of Milan.

    Mmabatho Stadium (South Africa)

    The Mmabatho Stadium, located in the heart of South Africa, is a unique architectural masterpiece that draws inspiration from traditional African designs. Its roof, which resembles an inverted basket, creates a distinctive silhouette and pays homage to the rich cultural heritage of the region.

    Named after the Setswana word for “a place where people gather,” the stadium is a football temple with a capacity of 34,000 seats. It has become an emblem of cultural diversity and unity, serving as a gathering place for fans from all walks of life. During its construction, local materials were employed to give the building its unique character and enhance the acoustic experience. Every fan’s cheer echoes through the stadium, adding to the powerful atmosphere during football matches.

    The architecture of the stadium is a perfect example of African culture. Every detail and curve of the structure tells a unique story, and the overall silhouette resembles the traditional headgear of local tribes. Thanks to this, Mmabato is not just a sports venue, but a true cultural landmark where modern football meets ancient traditions.

    Orange Velodrome (France)

    Marseille, the sunniest city in France, is home to one of the most impressive stadiums in Europe, the Orange Velodrome. It is not just a football arena; it is a city of entertainment where sports and art are harmoniously combined, and modernity and tradition are organically intertwined.

    The stadium’s design in red and white symbolizes the colors of Marseille’s Olympic club. At night, the backlighting turns it into a volcano of fire, making it stand out even more.

    The atmosphere at the Velodrome is legendary. The fans, known as Les Marseillais, create one of the loudest and most passionate audiences in Europe. Their chants can be heard for kilometers around the stadium. With a capacity of 67,394, it is one of France’s largest stadiums.

    This sports complex is unique in its versatility. Not only can it be used for football matches, but it can also host grand concerts featuring world-famous artists. The stadium magically transforms from a sports arena into a concert venue, creating a truly unforgettable experience for attendees.

    Estadio Hernando Siles (Bolivia)

    Situated at an altitude of more than 3,500 meters above sea level, in the heart of La Paz, there is one of the most unique football stadiums in the world – the Estadio Hernando Siles. This high-altitude venue presents a significant challenge for visiting teams, and is a true haven for local fans.

    Due to the thin air, the conditions are difficult for the players, making every pass harder and every movement requiring tremendous effort. Teams who are not accustomed to these conditions often struggle, with shortness of breath, dizziness, and fatigue being their constant companions.

    With a capacity of almost 42,000 spectators, the stadium becomes a powerful fortress, where the local teams thrive, but visiting teams must adjust to the challenging environment. Many teams arrive at the stadium a few days before the match to acclimatize and give themselves the best chance of competing on even terms with the locals.

    Khalifa International Stadium (Qatar)

    The Khalifa International Stadium stands tall among the skyscrapers of Doha, a truly impressive structure that embodies the latest in sports construction and engineering technologies.

    This magnificent stadium has become a symbol of football’s future, where innovation and functionality create unprecedented comfort for fans and players.

    One of the main features of this stadium is its innovative cooling system, allowing matches to take place even during the hottest days of Qatar’s summer. Imagine playing a game when the outside temperature is over 50 degrees Celsius, but inside the stands, it’s a comfortable +20 degrees! The Khalifa is a true oasis of comfort in the desert.

    Environmental friendliness and versatility are two other notable features of this impressive stadium. With a capacity for 68,000 spectators, it is truly remarkable in size. The stadium hosts not only football games, but also athletic competitions, making it a true sports hub for the region.

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    Football stadiums are more than just structures made of concrete and steel. They are the keepers of sporting legends that stand tall over cities, making every game truly unforgettable. These imposing buildings are not merely technical structures; they are living entities filled with the energy of millions of fans. Under the arches of these grand arenas, real stories are born, and every stone bears witness to moments of triumph and heartbreak.

    The atmosphere at stadiums is filled with magic: time seems to stand still, and emotions soar to the heavens. During 90-minute matches, which can feel like an eternity, 90,000 fans come together in a unified roar, creating a cacophony of support that is truly inspiring. It is clear that these places are imbued with a spirit of competition. Each minute here can become historic, and each goal can become legendary.

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    Conclusion

    These stadiums are not just sports facilities, they are works of architectural art. They represent the limitless potential of human imagination and engineering. They show how we can create unique spaces for sports that harmoniously blend with the surrounding environment or create futuristic structures that seem to have come from the pages of science fiction.

    From floating arenas to mountainous stadiums, these facilities contribute to the development of sports architecture. They create a unique atmosphere for fans and players, transforming the idea of what a modern football stadium can be.

    Perhaps in the future, the world will witness even more impressive projects that combine sports with architecture, technology, and the beauty of nature in harmony. But even today, these stadiums show that football is not just an exciting spectacle on the field; it’s also an aesthetic delight beyond it.

  • Benni McCarthy Net Worth, Career, Age, Coaching Journey, Harambee Stars Job & Personal Life

    Benni McCarthy Net Worth, Career, Age, Coaching Journey, Harambee Stars Job & Personal Life

    Benni McCarthy has taken on a new challenge as the head coach of Kenya’s Harambee Stars! The South African football legend, known for his lethal finishing and tactical brilliance, is now steering the national team to greater heights.

    But beyond the touchline, fans are curious—how much is Benni McCarthy’s net worth in 2025? From his glory days as a Bafana Bafana striker to his coaching career, McCarthy has built a remarkable legacy.

    Here’s a deep dive into his journey, wealth, coaching milestones, and personal life.

    Benni McCarthy Net Worth

    What is Benni McCarthy Net Worth?

    Benni McCarthy, a former South African soccer player, has a net worth of $16 million. Born in Cape Town, he started playing soccer with Young Pirates and Crusaders as a youth.

    At 17, Seven Stars signed him in 1995. He played there until 1997 before moving to Ajax, where he stayed until 1999.

    Celta Vigo signed him in 1999, but in 2002, they loaned him to Porto. A year later, Porto acquired him for €7.86 million.

    In 2006, McCarthy joined Blackburn Rovers. He later moved to West Ham United in 2010 and then played for Orlando Pirates from 2011 to 2013.

    McCarthy represented South Africa internationally from 1997 to 2012, becoming Bafana Bafana’s all-time top scorer with 32 goals.

    He won several major titles, including the Eredivisie, KNVB Cup, UEFA Intertoto Cup, Portuguese Liga, Portuguese Cup, and UEFA Champions League.

    In 1998, he teamed up with the music group TKZee for the hit song “Shibobo.”

    How old is Benni McCarthy?

    Benni McCarthy was born in Cape Town on November 12, 1977, to Dudley and Dora McCarthy.

    His older brother, Jerome McCarthy, played professional football for South African clubs like Kaizer Chiefs and Manning Rangers.

    His younger brother, Mark McCarthy, played football in the United States at Franklin Pierce University.

    Profile Summary

    Name Benedict Saul McCarthy
    Net Worth $16 Million
    Birthdate Nov 12, 1977 (47 years old)
    Birthplace Cape Town
    Gender Male
    Height 6 ft (1.83 m)
    Profession Football player/Coach
    Nationality South Africa
  • Former Manchester United Manager Named New Harambee Stars Coach

    Former Manchester United Manager Named New Harambee Stars Coach

    Kenya named former South Africa international Benni McCarthy as coach on Monday, some three weeks before they resume their World Cup qualification campaign.

    He will debut later this month with an away match against The Gambia followed by a home clash with Gabon.

    Kenya trail leaders Ivory Coast by five points in World Cup qualifying Group F but have six matches to play.

    The group winners qualify for the finals with the four best runners-up having the chance to progress via a second round.

    Kenya will co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations finals with Tanzania and Uganda but did qualify for the 2025 finals in Morocco.

    McCarthy, unveiled at a press conference in Nairobi, was last on the staff at Manchester United for two seasons under manager Erik ten Hag, working as a coach for the strikers.

    His previous managerial experience has been at South African clubs Cape Town City and AmaZulu.

    The 47-year-old McCarthy, who won 80 caps for South Africa and scored at the 1998 and 2002 World Cups, played in the Premier League for Blackburn Rovers and West Ham United. He lifted the Champions League with Porto in 2004.

  • Former FIFA Officials Blatter and Platini Going Back To Court For New Trial After Acquittal in 2022

    Former FIFA Officials Blatter and Platini Going Back To Court For New Trial After Acquittal in 2022

    One week before his 89th birthday, former FIFA president Sepp Blatter returns to court Monday for a retrial in a case of alleged financial wrongdoing that has run for nearly 10 years.

    Blatter and French soccer great Michel Platini were acquitted in July 2022 by three federal judges on charges including fraud, forgery, misappropriation of funds and mismanagement. They related to a FIFA payment of 2 million Swiss francs (now $2.21 million) to Platini.

    The acquittal came nearly seven years after the investigation was first revealed and removed them from office as leaders of FIFA and European soccer body UEFA. It also ended Platini’s campaign to succeed his one-time mentor as FIFA president.

    The Swiss attorney general’s office appealed against the first verdicts in October 2022 and a fresh trial opens Monday in Muttenz, near Basel.

    A verdict from three judges is scheduled on March 25.

    Blatter and Platini have consistently denied wrongdoing. They claim they had a verbal agreement to eventually pay for non-contracted work advising Blatter during his first presidential term from 1998 to 2002.

    Federal prosecutors have asked for sentences of 20 months, suspended for two years.

    The heart of the case

    Blatter was FIFA president in 2011 when he authorized paying Platini, then a FIFA vice president leading UEFA and his expected successor.

    Details of the payment made in February 2011 emerged four years later in fallout from the corruption crisis that hit FIFA in May 2015. United States federal investigators unsealed a sweeping investigation of international soccer officials. Swiss authorities made early-morning arrests at hotels in Zurich before seizing FIFA financial and business records.

    The Blatter-Platini case upended the expected line of succession at FIFA, where the heads of its then-independent ethics committee suspendedand later banned both men.

    Blatter was ousted from office ahead of schedule and Platini was removed both from UEFA and as the favored candidate in a FIFA presidential election held in February 2016. That was won by Gianni Infantino, who had been Platini’s CEO-like general secretary at UEFA. 

    Once the two most influential men in world soccer, Blatter and Platini return to court aged 88 and 69, respectively, having not worked in the sport since 2015. 

    The New Trial

    The case is scheduled for four days through Thursday, with reserve days available March 11-12. That leaves Monday March 10, Blatter’s 89th birthday, clear.

    The verdict from three cantonal (state) judges sitting as a federal court is due on March 25.

    The trial is being held in a cantonal (state) courthouse in Muttenz, in the suburbs of Basel, instead of the federal criminal court at Bellinzona where the first trial was held over 11 days in June 2022.

    That is because Platini won a federal ruling last year ordering the recusal of appeals judges in Bellinzona.

    The Payment

    Platini campaigned to help get Blatter elected in Paris in 1998 and then worked as an advisor. His annual salary was 300,000 Swiss francs (now $332,000) until Blatter’s re-election in 2002. They claim there was a “gentleman’s agreement” to later get the balance of 1 million Swiss francs for each year that FIFA could not pay at the time.

    The indictment published by federal prosecutors said Platini, elected UEFA president in 2007, started asking for his extra money early in 2010. Platini testified at other hearings he was motivated to ask when learning of “golden parachute” payments FIFA gave other staffers who left.

    Platini sent FIFA an invoice for 2 million Swiss francs in January 2011, and was paid on Feb. 1. That was several weeks after he and other FIFA executive committee members voted for Russia and Qatar to host the World Cup in 2018 and 2022, respectively.

    Those hosting decisions were under investigation by Swiss federal prosecutors since November 2014 when FIFA filed a criminal complaint about possible financial wrongdoing.

    “This payment damaged FIFA’s assets and unlawfully enriched Platini,” federal prosecutors said, publishing their initial indictment in November 2021.

    Platini has said he declared the income and paid taxes on it. FIFA has pursued a civil case to recover the money and 229,000 Swiss francs ($253,000) in social charges, plus interest.

    The latest court venue

    The case went through several sports and civil courts before Blatter and Platini finally got a win at the federal criminal court in Bellinzona.

    They lost at FIFA’s ethics committee then its appeals committee in Zurich, and in separate appeals at the Court of Arbitration for Sport in Lausanne.

    Platini also pursued appeals at the Swiss Federal Tribunal in Lausanne, against FIFA, and then at the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg, France. That appeal known as Platini vs. Switzerland was judged in March 2020 as inadmissible and “manifestly ill-founded.”

  • UEFA Ban English Referee Coote Until 2026

    UEFA Ban English Referee Coote Until 2026

    English referee David Coote has been banned from any UEFA refereeing activity until June 2026, European soccer’s governing body said on Friday.

    Coote was fired by English soccer’s referees’ body, the PGMOL, in December, weeks after being suspended following a video circulating on social media which showed the official allegedly abusing Liverpool and their ex-manager Juergen Klopp.

    UEFA opened an investigation into Coote in November after The Sun released a video appearing to show him snorting white powder while officiating at Euro 2024.

    In a statement on Friday, UEFA said Coote had violated rules of decent conduct and brought “the sport of football, and UEFA in particular, into disrepute”.

    Last month, Coote apologised for the actions that led to his sacking and said a fear of coming out as gay led him to turn to drugs.

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  • Clubless Victor Wanyama Rejects Return To England, Reveals Why He’s Not Retiring Soon

    Clubless Victor Wanyama Rejects Return To England, Reveals Why He’s Not Retiring Soon

    Former Harambee Stars captain Victor Wanyama has stated he is yet to retire and is looking for offers on the table before deciding what his next career step will be.

    Wanyama has not joined any club since he left Major League Soccer (MLS) CF Montreal of Canada in December 2024. Although he has been linked with the Championship side, Queens Park Rangers (QPR), he has expressly said he does not wish to return to England to play.

    “I will still be playing football and actively looking at everything on offer. Staying in England is an option, but I am more inclined to experience a new environment, as I’ve played in England for a while,” Wanyama told a local publication.

    Wanyama spent his time in the Premier League with Southampton and Tottenham Hotspur, and he has explained why his time in North London remains very memorable.

    “Yeah, I would say that was a great time in North London. I joined a big team that always pushed for Champions League qualification, and it was a huge challenge. I played some of my best football there.

    “We had such a good team, and to this day, it’s unbelievable that we didn’t win the Premier League or any trophies with that group. The talent and chemistry were unmatched,” he stated.

    Partnership

    In a recent interview, he recalled his time at Spurs and specifically talked about his partnership with Mousa Dembélé.

    “Me and Mousa, we enjoyed what we were doing; we complemented each other very well. You miss those moments. We had a good group, and we always wanted to improve each game.

    “Every weekend when we went out, we wanted to prove to ourselves that we could stay at the top; that’s how it should be, competing every weekend and making sure the club is at the top. It was fun. The most important thing that we had was fun, you know, going out there and having fun, and then the rest would just follow.

    “Unfortunately, there was one thing that we would love to do for the club, to win a trophy, but we didn’t do it with our group. You know what? I believe this group will do something special one day,” he said.

  • ‪Mashemeji Derby: AFC Leopards vs Gor Mahia Weekend Match Cancelled As Ingwe Fails To Secure Venue ‬

    ‪Mashemeji Derby: AFC Leopards vs Gor Mahia Weekend Match Cancelled As Ingwe Fails To Secure Venue ‬

    Mashemeji Derby match between Gor Mahia & AFC Leopards that was set for this Sunday postponed for the second time due lack of suitable venue.

    However, Nyayo, which is almost done, also harbors a risk with debris laying around the stadium following the renovations that have been ongoing for the last two years.

    The rescheduled high-risk match was initially slated for November 24 last year but couldn’t kick off due to a lack of suitable venue.

    The fixture has previously seen the 30,000-seater stadium Nyayo national stadium fill to the rafters, followed by running battles between irate fans allegedly triggered by poor officiating or misunderstanding between KO’gallo and Ingwe fans.

    According to fixtures released by the Football Kenya Federations Leagues and Competitions department, the match is set for Kasarani Stadium on Sunday, February 2, 2025.

    However, things on the ground are different, with the canopy at Kasarani being mounted, and will it not be done by Sunday.

    According to hosts AFC Leopards, their management is in talks with the Sports Stadia Management Board to revert the match to Nyayo.

    AFC Leopards chairman Dan Shikanda, while speaking to Nation in an interview on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, expressed his frustration over the lack of an appropriate venue but insisted that playing at unsuitable grounds is not an option.

    “We may not play at Kasarani, and I can’t accept that the fixture be staged at Dandora or Kenyatta Stadium in Machakos because these venues cannot stage such a big fixture,” Shikanda said.

    Shikanda’s states the 60,000-seater Kasarani Stadium would have been the ideal choice but remains under renovation, rendering it unfit for the derby.

    Nyayo Stadium is also unavailable as it is subject to approval by the CHAN Local Organizing Committee.

    “How would you move the canopy at Kasarani, which is a construction site? Let FKF plan so that we can play in Tanzania or Uganda, where Harambee Stars staged their matches,” added Shikanda.

    While the clubs and federation are sweating to find a venue, both sides are in camp doing final touches ahead of the massive duel.

    New Gor Mahia tactician Sinisa Mihic and his Leopards counterpart Fred Ambani will both be in charge of the derby for the first time, with three points, pride, and bragging rights at stake.

    KO’gallo who completed a double over Ingwe last season, have dominated the fixture in the last nine years, losing only once.

    After both sides have played 21 matches, Gor are currently at position three with 36 points, while Ingwe are fifth with 34 points.

  • Fencing Federation Accused Of Nepotism Ahead Of Junior Champs

    Fencing Federation Accused Of Nepotism Ahead Of Junior Champs

    The KenyaFencing Federation (KFF) have been rocked by claims of nepotism ahead of this week’s Africa Junior Championships in Angola.

    A source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, says the team to the continental competition has been littered with sons and daughters of the federation officials.

    “We have the secretary general…none of his children are involved in fencing. And then the treasurer, he has two daughters, one of them came back recently from South Africa with a fencing diploma, trained her other sister and now both of them are in the team. The president’s son, on the other hand, does not know anything about fencing,” the source says.

    It added: “I’ve only heard of him (president’s son) this year and now he has been put into the team. Those of us who have been in this sport for long have been pushed to the side.”

    The source also points a finger of accusation at Isaac Mburu, a professional fencing coach and national team player, for getting preferential treatment from the federation honchos.

    “He is this guy that whenever there is anything fencing, he always comes first. When the ministry of Sports does not send enough funds and we need to trim the squad and drop others, he can never be dropped. The secretary general favours him,” the source further indicated.

    In response, the federation’s secretary general Stephen Okalo denied claims of nepotism but said the team was selected by merit.

    “We have our selection policy on how we select teams for international championships. This you can find on our website. So, if my son is a good fencer, I will put him in the team. All these other things are just hearsay that lacks no merit at all,” Okalo said.

    The secretary general could not deny or confirm whether the team – consisting of eight players – is composed of sons and daughters of officials.

    “The team is going to compete at the Africa Junior Championships and you will be able to see them. They are eight players but the information you have been fed with is not the correct one,” he insisted.

    The accusations are the latest in a long line of controversies that have riddled the federation in recent years.

    They have been embroiled in a back-and-forth with German-born fencer Alexandra Ndolo who has in the past accused them of lack of support in registering her for competitions and funding her preparations.

  • Nigerian Footballer Dies after Falling from a Shopping Mall Balcony In Uganda

    Nigerian Footballer Dies after Falling from a Shopping Mall Balcony In Uganda

    Ugandan police have launched an investigation into the tragic death of Nigerian footballer Abubakar Lawal, who fell from a shopping mall balcony in Kampalaon Monday, according to AFP.

    The 29-year-old striker, who played for Ugandan Premier League side Vipers SC, reportedly fell from the third floor of Voicemall Shopping Arcade in the early hours of the morning.

    According to police, Lawal had been visiting a Tanzanian friend who resides in an apartment within the shopping mall complex. The friend informed authorities that she had left him alone shortly before the fall.

    Authorities are retrieving CCTV footage from the shopping mall and conducting interrogations to determine the circumstances leading to Lawal’s fall.

    “The police are conducting a thorough investigation to establish the exact details of the incident,” officials stated.

    Lawal’s club, Vipers SC, confirmed his sudden passing in a heartfelt statement.

    “We are deeply saddened to announce the sudden and untimely passing of our beloved player, Abubakar Lawal, who left us this morning.

    “Our thoughts and prayers are with Lawal’s family, club fans, friends and loved ones during this difficult time,” it added.

    Lawal joined Vipers SC in July 2022 after a two-year stint with AS Kigali in Rwanda. He had been an integral part of the squad, contributing to the team’s attack.

    The football community in Uganda, Nigeria, and beyond has been left shocked and devastated by the striker’s tragic demise.

  • Arsenal Has 20% Chance of Winning EPL Title – Arsene Wenger

    Arsenal Has 20% Chance of Winning EPL Title – Arsene Wenger

    Former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has weighed in on the Gunners’ Premier League title hopes, estimating their chances at a “generous” 20 percent.

    Arsenal had an opportunity to close the gap on league leaders Liverpool after the Reds dropped four points across three matches. However, Mikel Arteta’s side failed to take advantage, suffering a disappointing home defeat to West Ham on Saturday.

    Their title aspirations suffered another setback as Liverpool solidified their position at the top of the table, with Mohamed Salah scoring and assisting in a crucial 2-0 victory over defending champions Manchester City.

    That result saw Liverpool extend their lead to 11 points over second-placed Arsenal, although the Gunners have a game in hand.

    Speaking on beIN SPORTS during halftime at the Etihad, Wenger admitted that Arsenal’s chances of securing the Premier League title are slipping away.

    “If Liverpool win today then you could say it’s 80% [likely they win the title],” Wenger said.

    When asked about Arsenal’s chances, he added: “You have to keep hope! [Arsenal have] a 20% chance. Maybe I’m being generous…

    “But with 11 games to go, 11 points ahead and one more game played, of course, you would be surprised.

    “If Liverpool win today they’ve lost only one game since the start of the season and you wouldn’t think they would lose four games in the last 11.

  • Arsenal Title Hopes Hit In Shock Defeat By West Ham

    Arsenal Title Hopes Hit In Shock Defeat By West Ham

    Arsenal’s Premier League title hopes suffered a hammer blow when Jarrod Bowen’s goal just before halftime gave London rivals West Ham United a surprise 1-0 away victory on Saturday.

    Bowen headed in from close range in the 44th minute and Arsenal’s feeble attack, missing a host of injured forwards, could not prevent a first home league defeat of the season.

    Arsenal barely troubled visiting keeper Alphonse Areola, managing two shots on target, and played the last 20 minutes with 10 men after substitute Myles Lewis-Skelly was red-carded for hauling down Mohammed Kudus.

    Mikel Arteta’s second-placed side have 53 points from 26 games, eight behind leaders Liverpool who face champions Manchester City away on Sunday.

    Arsenal’s last home league defeat came 10 months ago against Aston Villa and that ultimately proved decisive as they failed to prevent Manchester City winning a fourth successive title.

    As Arsenal’s fans drifted out of the stadium on Saturday they surely felt as though another title bid was set to end in failure, especially if Liverpool win on Sunday.

    With Kai Havertz, Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Martinelli and Bukayo Saka all out injured, makeshift forward Mikel Merino proved the unlikely solution last week with both goals in a 2-0 victory at Leicester City.

    Arsenal could have closed the gap with Liverpool to five points and exerted some real pressure on Arne Slot’s side if they had beaten a West Ham side they trounced 5-2 away this season.

    Instead, West Ham were full value for only their second win in six league games under new manager Graham Potter.

    Arsenal’s attacking limitations were cruelly exposed in a first half in which West Ham’s defence was able to stroll on a balmy spring-like afternoon in north London.

    Apart from a thunderous shot by Riccardo Calafiori that went straight at West Ham keeper Alphonse Areola, the hosts did nothing with their territorial superiority.

    West Ham, on the other hand, looked dangerous on the counter-attack with Tomas Soucek twice heading off target and skipper Bowen dragging a shot wide.

    With halftime approaching Arsenal’s fans were already getting restless when West Ham took the lead.

    Bowen won the ball on the edge of his own area and fed it to Aaron Wan-Bissaka who cruised down the right side before crossing for Bowen to stoop and head past David Raya.

    West Ham fans were enjoying themselves and let out a huge cheer when Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice was replaced early in the second half by teenager Lewis-Skelly after an ineffective display against his old club.

    Arsenal were huffing and puffing after the break and their task got even harder when Lewis-Skelly dragged down Kudus on the halfway line as the West Ham player was set to break clear with Raya well out of his goal.

    A yellow card was initially shown but, after a VAR monitor check, referee Craig Pawson upgraded it to red.

    West Ham survived some late pressure against the 10 men as they moved to 30 points from 26 games.

    (Reuters)

  • Champions League Last 16 Draw: Liverpool Face PSG as Arsenal Meet PSV

    Champions League Last 16 Draw: Liverpool Face PSG as Arsenal Meet PSV

    The UEFAChampions League last 16 draw has set up some thrilling encounters, with Premier League leaders Liverpool drawn against French giants Paris Saint-Germain.

    Meanwhile, Arsenal will face Dutch side PSV Eindhoven, and Aston Villa take on Club Brugge. Defending champions Real Madrid will go head-to-head with city rivals Atletico Madrid, while Bayern Munich and Bayer Leverkusen will clash in an all-German showdown.

    With several heavyweight fixtures lined up, football fans across the globe can expect high-intensity clashes as Europe’s elite clubs battle for a place in the quarter-finals. The two-legged ties will take place on 4-5 March and 11-12 March, with Kenyan time adjustments provided below.

    Liverpool vs PSG: A Battle of European Powerhouses

    Liverpool will face PSG for the first time since the 2018-19 group stage, where the Reds went on to lift their sixth European title. With Kylian Mbappe leading the French side and Mohamed Salah spearheading Liverpool’s attack, this tie promises fireworks. The winner of this encounter will play either Aston Villa or Club Brugge in the quarter-finals.

    • First leg: 5 March (11:00 PM EAT)
    • Second leg: 11 March (11:00 PM EAT)

    Arsenal vs PSV Eindhoven: Gunners Eye Quarter-Final Spot

    Arsenal will be looking to progress past the last 16 as they face PSV Eindhoven, a side they are familiar with from previous European encounters. If Mikel Arteta’s men succeed, they will meet either Real Madrid or Atletico Madrid in the last eight.

    • First leg: 4 March (11:00 PM EAT)
    • Second leg: 12 March (11:00 PM EAT)

    Real Madrid vs Atletico Madrid: Madrid Derby on the European Stage

    Real Madrid, fresh off their elimination of Manchester City, now face their fierce city rivals, Atletico Madrid. Los Blancos, with 15 Champions League titles, will be aiming to continue their dominance, while Diego Simeone’s side will be eager to cause an upset.

    • First leg: 4 March (11:00 PM EAT)
    • Second leg: 12 March (11:00 PM EAT)

    Bayern Munich vs Bayer Leverkusen: German Giants Clash

    Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich will battle an in-form Bayer Leverkusen side in an all-German affair. With both teams boasting attacking firepower, this promises to be a high-scoring encounter.

    • First leg: 5 March (11:00 PM EAT)
    • Second leg: 11 March (11:00 PM EAT)

    Other Last-16 Fixtures

    • Club Brugge vs Aston Villa
      • First leg: 4 March (9:45 PM EAT)
      • Second leg: 12 March (11:00 PM EAT)
    • Borussia Dortmund vs Lille
      • First leg: 4 March (11:00 PM EAT)
      • Second leg: 12 March (9:45 PM EAT)
    • Feyenoord vs Inter Milan
      • First leg: 5 March (9:45 PM EAT)
      • Second leg: 11 March (11:00 PM EAT)
    • Benfica vs Barcelona
      • First leg: 5 March (11:00 PM EAT)
      • Second leg: 11 March (9:45 PM EAT)

    With the road to munich heating up, these last-16 clashes will be crucial in determining who remains in contention for European glory. Fans across Kenya and beyond can look forward to some unforgettable nights of football.

  • One day: three cool games in the top leagues!

    One day: three cool games in the top leagues!

    How can I make profit in betting? Find out in global betting company 1xBet’s preview of the 3 big matches, which will take place on February 23. Place bets on the top matches without affecting the family budget and get unforgettable emotions!

    Manchester City v Liverpool

    The main match of round 26 is a battle between the reigning and potential EPL champions. Manchester City are having a disastrous season: in England, for the first time in many years, they aren’t fighting for the league title, but for a spot in the top 4. In the Champions League, the regular favorites got eliminated at the start of the knockout phase and will now be fully focused on the domestic league.

    Liverpool started the season impressively with new coach Arne Slot, but lost momentum in mid-February. The Reds have won only once in their last three EPL matches, which may indicate the start of a slump. In the first half of the season at Anfield, they beat the Citizens 2-0, but can the Merseysiders repeat their success amid erratic results?

    Manchester City are now unlikely to take revenge as the home team’s win is offered at high odds of 2.86. A win for the visitors is estimated at lower odds of 2.30, and the most favorable bet may be the one on a draw with the odds of 4.12.

    Bayern Munich v Eintracht Frankfurt

    The teams from the Bundesliga’s top 3 will clash at Munich’s Allianz Arena next Sunday. Bayern are at the top of the standings and are likely to regain the title. Last week, Germany’s top scoring team drew 0-0 with reigning champions Bayer in Leverkusen and practically killed the title intrigue in the Bundesliga. Now Die Roten can safely make it through the rest of the season without any failures.

    Eintracht are 3rd in the Bundesliga and are doing well in the Europa League. The Eagles want to finish in the top 4 and try their luck in the Champions League next season.

    1xBet experts consider Bayern the favorites in the upcoming game and offer the odds of 1.36 for their victory. You can also bet on a draw or a win for the visitors with the odds of 6.38 and 7.95 respectively. Remember that Eintracht haven’t lost in 3 of their last 4 h2h matches against Bayern and are an uneasy opponent for Munich.

    Lyon v Paris Saint-Germain

    Lyon are no longer competing with Paris Saint-Germain for the Ligue 1 title, but the battles between the most renowned French teams of the 21st century are always considered the biggest matches of the week.

    The champion is in superb form this season, remaining unbeaten in the league and showing impressive away results. Lyon seem quite strong too, reaching the European competitions zone thanks to 2 consecutive wins with an 8-1 aggregate score. This fact should inspire the Kids for the fight against the Parisians.

    Today, the odds for the basic outcomes are as follows: W1 – 4.08, X – 4.45, W2 – 1.83.

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