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EPL: Wirtz gets his first goal as Liverpool beat Wolves
Florian Wirtz scored his first Liverpool goal as they held out to beat Wolves on an emotional afternoon at Anfield as Diogo Jota was remembered by both sets of fans.
Arne Slot’s side scored twice in two minutes through Ryan Gravenberch and Wirtz in the first half and though Wolves pulled one back through Santiago Bueno, Liverpool made it three Premier League wins in a row. Wolves remain winless in the top flight this season.
Dinis and Duarte, Jota’s sons, were mascots for the game and came out on to the pitch alongside Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk.
Jota, who played for Liverpool and Wolves, during his time in England, was remembered again when both sets of fans sang his song in the 20th minute. Liverpool retired his shirt number ’20’ following his death in a car crash in July.
Rob Edwards’ Wolves held firm for most of the first half until Gravenberch broke the deadlock in the 41st minute as he finished from Jeremie Frimpong’s ball.
A minute later, Wirtz got on the end of Hugo Ektike’s delivery and slotted past Jose Sa to double Liverpool’s lead.
The visitors had a glimmer of hope six minutes into the second half, as Bueno scored the rebound after Alisson saved Tolu Arokodare’s header from a Wolves corner.
Edwards made three changes just after the hour mark as his side hunted for an equaliser and they came close when Arokodare headed over but Liverpool held firm to make it seven games unbeaten in all competitions.
Uche Ikpeazu kept Uganda’s hope of qualifying for the knockout stages of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations alive after scoring a goal in their 1-1 draw against Tanzania on Saturday.
Ikpeazu, who came on in the 77th minute for Jude Ssemugabi, scored with a brilliant diving header to level parity for Uganda in the 80th minute of the game.
Prior to his goal, Simon Msuva had given Tanzania the lead in the 59th minute when he scored from the spot kick.
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However, the Cranes had the opportunity to pick up the maximum three points, but talisman Allan Okello put his spot kick over the crossbar.
Shortly after, the Taifa Stars had an excellent chance after an unconvincing moment from Onyango but the resulting shot went just wide to complete a dramatic final stretch.
Now both teams must win their final Group C matches to have any chance of advancing to the Round of 16. The Cranes will face Nigeria while Tanzania clash with Tunisia in must-win clashes.
The Super Eagles of Nigeria will earn a cash reward of $5,000 for every goal scored at the ongoing 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The incentive, first reported by ScoreNigeria, is part of a broader motivation package rolled out by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Sports. A similar approach was adopted during Nigeria’s 2026 FIFA World Cup African qualifying campaign.
Eric Chelle’s side already benefited from the policy earlier this week, pocketing $10,000 following their 2-1 opening win over Tanzania. That victory has put the Super Eagles in a strong position ahead of Saturday night’s Group C showdown against Tunisia.
The highly anticipated encounter against the Carthage Eagles will kick off at 9pm Nigeria time, with Nigeria aiming to secure qualification for the last 16 with a game to spare.
Naija News reports that the Super Eagles began their AFCON campaign on a positive note by edging past Tanzania, while Tunisia currently sit top of the group after a commanding 3-0 win over Uganda.
The result means both sides go into the match knowing that victory would all but guarantee progress. A win for Nigeria will be a huge payback against a Tunisian side who knocked out the Super Eagles in the AFCON 2021 round of 16.
Super Eagles head coach Éric Chelle has made two changes to his starting line-up for tonight’s clash with Tunisia.
Chelle has altered his formation from 4-4-2 to 4-4-3.
As expected, Stanley Nwabali retains his position in goal.
Bright Osayi-Samuel, Semi Ajayi and Calvin Bassey all kept their places at the back, with Bruno Onyemaechi replacing Zaidu Sanusi at right-back.
Captain Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka and Alex Iwobi will line up in midfield.
Victor Osimhen will be supported upfront by Ademola Lookman and Akor Adams.
Completesports.com’s live blogging of the AFCON 2025 Group C Matchday 2 game between the Super Eagles of Nigeria and the Carthage Eagles of Tunisia at the Fez Stadium in Fes, Morocco. By James Agberebi, at Complexe Sportif de Fez
The post Nigeria Vs Tunisia Live Blogging – AFCON 2025 Group C Matchday 2 appeared first on Complete Sports.
Super Eagles captain, Wilfred Ndidi has challenged Nigeria to build on their opening victory at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, insisting there is still room for improvement ahead of the crucial Group C encounter against Tunisia.
The newly elected captain says lessons from Tanzania win must fuel improvement as Nigeria targets momentum at AFCON 2025 as they seek to claim automatic Round of 16 ticket in their second group game.
Speaking from the team’s camp base in Fez, Morocco, Ndidi stated that while the 2–1 win over Tanzania delivered the most important three points outcome, the performance also provided valuable lessons the team must address before their next fixture.
“The First Game Is About Momentum” – Ndidi
Reflecting on Nigeria’s tournament opener, Ndidi said the importance of Tanzani’s game is that it was more of a foundation match, not the finished product.
“We’re actually training for that. We have to learn from the Tanzanian game, going into the Tunisian game.”
“The first game of a tournament is always like getting momentum, but there’s always room for improvement.”
The Super Eagles took the lead through Semi Ajayi, were briefly pegged back by Tanzania, and then reclaimed control through Ademola Lookman’s quick response.
While pleased with the result, Ndidi made it clear the team must now elevate their overall performance.
Three Points Secured, Focus Shifts Forward
Ndidi emphasized that securing maximum points in the opening match was critical to Nigeria’s ambitions in the competition, providing a platform to grow in confidence and cohesion.
“I would say the most important thing, we got three points, which is mostly important.”
“We’ll just try and get back to seeing things we needed to improve on and look forward to the next one.”
With the pressure of the first game behind them, the captain believes the Super Eagles can now approach the Tunisia clash with greater clarity and belief.
Read More: FINALLY: Promises Kept on the Eve of Battle as Super Eagles Receive National Honours, Houses and Land
Read More: “We Are Ready”: Dele-Bashiru Confident Super Eagles Can Overcome Tunisia Test
Read More: AFCON 2025: Everything You Need to Know About Morocco 2025
Preparation Intensifies in Fez
Nigeria have remained in Fez since their opening fixture, using the stability of their camp base to fine-tune tactical details and recovery routines.
The focus, according to Ndidi, is on correcting lapses observed against Tanzania and raising both performance levels and confidence.
Tunisia, one of Africa’s most experienced tournament sides, present a sterner test, one that could significantly shape the group standings race.
As the Super Eagles continue preparations, Ndidi said winning is essential, but growth is non-negotiable as Nigeria now turn their attention fully to Tunisia, aiming a back-to-back win at AFCON 2025.
With momentum established and lessons identified, Nigeria now turn their attention fully to Tunisia, aiming not just for another result, but a performance that reflects their ambition at AFCON 2025.
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Chelsea vs Aston Villa – Premier League LIVE: Latest score and updates as Joao Pedro opens the scoring from Reece James corner after dominant first half display
Follow Daily Mail Sport’s live blog for the latest score, team news and updates as Aston Villa travel to Stamford Bridge to take on Chelsea in the Premier League, with Oliver Holt and Kieran Gill reporting from the grounds.
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Chelsea vs Aston Villa – Premier League LIVE: Latest score and updates as Joao Pedro opens the scoring from Reece James corner after dominant first half display
Victor Boniface is facing a difficult call over his immediate future after medical advice in Germany pointed firmly towards surgery as the best solution to his ongoing knee trouble.
Reports from Bild indicate that doctors in Leverkusen believe an operation may now be unavoidable for the Super Eagles striker, who remains on the books of Bayer Leverkusen and is expected to return to the club by the summer of 2026.
The option of surgery was first raised back in August, but the 25-year-old decided against going under the knife at the time. Since then, the problem has persisted, prompting renewed concern from medical staff and club officials.
Choosing surgery at this stage would almost certainly rule Boniface out for the rest of the season and could mean his loan spell at Werder Bremen has already come to an end. He joined Die Grün-Weißen late in the summer transfer window but has struggled for rhythm and continuity.
Despite the immediate setback, an operation is viewed as a possible long-term fix to an issue that has followed Boniface for much of his career. The striker has already battled through two anterior cruciate ligament injuries, making the decision an especially sensitive one.
Both clubs are said to be keen on a united approach. Bayer Leverkusen sporting director Simon Rolfes and Werder Bremen’s head of professional football Clemens Fritz are reportedly in discussions aimed at agreeing the best path forward for the player.
Ultimately, the final say belongs to Boniface himself. His numbers in Bremen tell a frustrating story, with no goals in 11 appearances and only two starts. That return stands in sharp contrast to his time at Leverkusen, where he scored 22 goals across two Bundesliga seasons between 2023 and 2025.
According to Deichstube, Boniface must now decide whether to opt for surgery or attempt to manage the pain and play on until the end of the campaign.
Werder Bremen have already been in contact with Bayer Leverkusen about the possibility of cutting the loan short, with clarity expected once the striker reaches a decision.
Nigeria’s second game at the ongoing 2025 Africa Cup of Nations will see them take on Tunisia on Saturday night.
The Super Eagles began their campaign with a 2–1 victory over Tanzania, thanks to goals from Semi Ajayi and Ademola Lookman.
Eric Chelle’s men will now be eyeing early qualification for the Round of 16 with another win over the Carthage Eagles.
The North Africans themselves thrashed Uganda 3–0 in their opening fixture and will be keen to take control of Group C.
Kick-off is at 9 pm WAT at the Fez Stadium in Fes, Morocco.
DAILY POST will bring you live updates from Nigeria’s match against Tunisia.
Ahead of Nigeria’s next 2025 Africa Cup of Nations Group C fixture, Super Eagles midfielder, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru has acknowledged the scale of the challenge posed by Tunisia, but remains confident the team has what it takes to emerge victorious.
Speaking ahead of the encounter, the midfieler admits tough challenge ahead but insists Nigeria have the quality, preparation and belief to secure victory
Dele-Bashiru revealed that the Super Eagles coaching crew and players have already begun detailed analysis of the North African side, stressing that preparation and collective focus will be key on matchday.
Nigeria’s 2–1 victory over Tanzania delivered early momentum, but both players and coaches have been clear that improvement is still required.
The Lazio player Dele-Bashiru’s message is coming from the camp that success at AFCON depends on constant evaluation, discipline, and collective responsibility.
“Tunisia Are a Very Good Side” – Dele-Bashiru
Dele-Bashiru did not downplay the quality of Nigeria’s next opponents, describing Tunisia as a strong and organised team capable of making the contest difficult.
“Tunisia are a very good side, but we will analyse them very well and we will be ready for them.”
“I think we should expect, of course, a difficult match, but I think we have enough to get the victory.”
The midfielder’s confidence hinted the growing belief within the Super Eagles camp following their opening-day win against Tanzania, which put Nigeria in a strong position early in the group.
Team Meeting Planned as Eagles Review Tanzania Win
Beyond studying Tunisia, Dele-Bashiru disclosed that the Super Eagles will also conduct an internal review of their own performance against Tanzania, identifying areas for improvement and strengths to build upon.
“We’ll have a team meeting about this match. We’ll analyse Tunisia,” Dele-Bashiru said.
“We’ll analyse what we did well and what we didn’t do well.”
The process, according to the midfielder, is aimed at ensuring the team raises its level in all departments as the tournament progresses.
With Tunisia representing one of the most experienced sides in African football, the Super Eagles know that execution, concentration and adaptability will be crucial.
Eyes on AFCON 2025 Round of 16 Automatic Slot
As preparations intensify, Dele-Bashiru is optimistic about the mood in the Nigerian camp: respectful of the opposition, realistic about the challenge, but confident in the squad’s ability to deliver.
For the Super Eagles, the clash with Tunisiais is also an opportunity to confirm their credentials, Automaticallt qualify for the tournamnet’s Round of 16, take another decisive step toward continental glory at AFCON 2025.
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Premier League LIVE: Latest score, team news and updates from the 3pm fixtures as Martin Odegaard puts Arsenal in the lead during opening exchanges and Florian Wirtz scores his first Liverpool goal
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Premier League LIVE: Latest score, team news and updates from the 3pm fixtures as Martin Odegaard puts Arsenal in the lead during opening exchanges and Florian Wirtz scores his first Liverpool goal
The stage is set for one of the biggest English Premier League fixtures of the weekend as Chelsea welcome Aston Villa to Stamford Bridge on Saturday evening.
The highly anticipated clash is scheduled to kick off at 6:30 pm Nigerian time, with both teams heading into the encounter in contrasting positions on the league table.
Chelsea comes into the fixture after battling to a 2-2 draw against Newcastle United, showing resilience after conceding late in the game.
Aston Villa, on the other hand, arrive in London full of confidence after securing a 2-1 victory over Manchester United, a result that strengthened their title credentials.
Under manager Unai Emery, Aston Villa have enjoyed a strong run against the Blues in recent Premier League meetings.
The West Midlands side have won three of their last five league games against Chelsea, recording one draw and one defeat in the process.
After 17 league matches, Emery’s men sit third on the Premier League table, holding a seven-point advantage over fourth-placed Chelsea.
Villa are firmly in the title race, sitting just one point behind second-placed Manchester City and three points adrift of leaders Arsenal.
A victory at Stamford Bridge would keep their Premier League title hopes firmly alive.
Chelsea, however, are technically out of the title race and will be focused on disrupting Villa’s momentum while strengthening their push for a top-four finish.
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca may be without Brazilian winger Estêvão, who missed recent games against Cardiff City and Newcastle United.
Also ruled out for the Blues are Levi Colwill, Dário Essugo and Roméo Lavia.
However, Maresca offered a boost to Chelsea fans during his pre-match press conference, hinting that striker Liam Delap is set to make his return against Aston Villa.
For Aston Villa, Jadon Sancho will be available to face his former loan side, Chelsea, in what is expected to be an emotional return to Stamford Bridge.
However, fellow loanee Harvey Elliott is battling illness and is unlikely to feature in the encounter.
Emery will also be without Evann Guessand, who has been handed a late call-up to the Ivory Coast national team ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
In addition, former Chelsea midfielder Ross Barkley will miss the clash due to injury.
Former beach soccer star, Abu Azeez, has warned the Super Eagles of the threat posed by the Carthage Eagles of Tunisia ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations, AFCON, clash on Saturday.
Nigeria and Tunisia won their first games in the ongoing 2025 AFCON in Morocco and will later on Saturday lock horns in the second group stage fixtures.
Azeez warned that the Super Eagles must not allow their North African opponents score, a situation he said would put pressure on Nigeria.
He told Home Turf podcast, “The game against Tanzania has come and gone. This one is against Tunisia, a better side.
“Losing the match against Tunisia will put pressure on the team ahead of the last group match. Any team can win at this stage of the tournament.”
Since the Super Eagles were beaten 1-0 the last time both teams met, Azeez warned that Nigeria should not go seeking revenge but should see the match as a normal one.
“We know the Tunisians are very fast and if you want physicality and technique, they have it. They play like Europeans, so we just need to do everything possible — being focused, 90 percent level of concentration.
“Try as much as possible to score first, second goal, which is very possible. Tunisians are not unbeatable. We can beat them and beat them well.
“We have to try not to concede first because I know the Nigerian squad. Conceding first will put them under pressure,” he added.
Benin Republic defeated Botswana 1-0 to record their first win at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations,reports Completesports.com.
The Cheetahs scored the winning goal through Yohan Roche in the 28th minute with captain Steve Mounie providing the assist.
Mounie teed up Roche with a clever pass, and the defender made no mistake, firing past the Botswana goalkeeper from inside the box.
Read Also:AFCON 2025: Tunisians, Moroccans Predict Super Eagles Vs Carthage Eagles
Benin totally dominated the game, but failed to score more goals due to their poor marksmanship.
Gernot Rohr’s side, who narrowly lost 1-0 to the Democratic Republic of Congo in their first game will now face former champions Senegal next week Tuesday.
Botswana, who struggled to create any meaningful chance in the game now face an early elimination following their second defeat of the competition.
The Mares will be up against DR Congo in their last group game.
Former Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) winner Kenneth Omeruo has urged the Super Eagles to keep their feet on the ground ahead of tonight’s crucial Group C clash against Tunisia at the ongoing 2025 AFCON in Morocco.
Nigeria and Tunisia will renew their rivalry at the 40,000-capacity Fez Stadium at 9 p.m. tonight in what promises to be one of the standout fixtures of the group stage.
Both sides made winning starts to their campaigns and know that another victory will secure early qualification for the round of 16.
The Super Eagles opened their tournament with a 2-1 win over Tanzania, with goals from Semi Ajayi and Ademola Lookman sealing the points. Tunisia, on their part, looked sharp as they brushed aside Uganda 3-1 to underline their intent.
Despite the positive start, Omeruo, a key member of Nigeria’s title-winning team in 2013, has warned that the Carthage Eagles present a very different test.
“It’s an important game. If we win, we go into the next round, but we have to be careful because Tunisia are more technical than our last opponents,” Omeruo told Punch.
“We will always play to win, but I don’t expect anything short of good football as well.”
Omeruo, 31, understands the demands of the Africa Cup of Nations better than most. He was part of the historic Super Eagles squad coached by the late Stephen Keshi that lifted the trophy in South Africa in 2013.
During that memorable run, Omeruo formed a solid defensive unit alongside Elderson Echiéjilé, Joseph Yobo and Godfrey Oboabona, helping Nigeria shut out opponents at key moments on the road to glory.
The Super Eagles can book their place in the last 16 of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations with a win against Tunisia on Saturday.
Nigeria began their tournament with a 2-1 win over Tanzania.
Another three points against the Carthage Eagles will see them progress into the next round.
But, here’s the thing: Tunisia wants the exact same thing.
The North Africans thrashed Uganda 3-0 in their opening fixture and are currently top of the group.
That means Eric Chelle’s men have to step it up against a team that is one of the favourites to win the AFCON.
“I think Nigeria played well enough to defeat Tanzania,” Ope Adebari, a sports analyst, reporter and producer with News Central, tells DAILY POST.
“Alex Iwobi was the most impressive. His impact on the game was felt from the start till the end of the game.
“I think Chukwueze and Sanusi need to step up their individual performances.”
A lot has also been said about Chelle’s tactical set-up and how he deploys his players.
“I think Chelle should just use the right players in the right positions,” Adebari pointed out.
“He seems to always misprofile players.”
The Super Eagles have won three of their last 10 meetings with Tunisia, including memorable victories at the AFCON 2000 and AFCON 2006.
However, Tunisia sent Nigeria packing in the Round of 16 at AFCON 2021, winning 1–0 in Garoua.
That defeat was a timely reminder that they can frustrate and punish even the most talented sides.
Over the last ten meetings between both sides, Tunisia emerged victorious thrice, with the remaining four fixtures ending all square.
Players Nigeria need to be wary of?
“Talbi, Mejbri, Achouri, Mastouri and Skhiri are players that can hurt the Super Eagles,” Adebari added.