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AFCON 2025: Rohr Upbeat Benin Can Upset Senegal
Benin Republic head coach Gernot Rohr is upbeat the Cheetahs can get a positive result against Senegal, reports Completesports.com.
Rohr’s charges will be up against the Terangha Lions in a Group D clash at the Grand Stade de Tanger on Tuesday night (today).
The Cheetahs lost 1-0 to the Leopards of Democratic Republic of Congo in their first game.
They however revived their campaign securing a historic first AFCON victory in open play against Botswana to place qualification firmly within reach.
A win would see Benin advance automatically, while a draw could also prove sufficient depending on results elsewhere.
Rohr said it is important for his team to be resolute at the back.
“The priority is to be well organised defensively against top-level attackers,” Rohr was quoted by CAFonline.
“But we don’t want to just defend. We want to be united, combative and take our chances — especially from counter-attacks or set pieces.”
By Adeboye Amosu
SPORT
NCAA sparks college basketball meltdown with statement on shock ruling that could change sports forever
College basketball has descended into chaos after the NCAA spoke out on its shock decision to grant eligibility to a former NBA Draft pick.
There are fears that the decision to allow James Nnaji, a 21-year-old Nigerian-born professional basketball player who never played in college, to join Baylor could change the sport forever.
The NCAA granted Nnaji four years of eligibility and he will be cleared to play for the remainder of the 2025-26 season – despite the Charlotte Hornets drafting him 31st overall in 2023.
Until now, basketball players were not allowed to return to college if they are part of the NBA draft. Traditionally, players have had until mid-June to withdraw their names if they want to stay in school.
Amid the furor, the NCAA has now muddied the waters further with a cryptic statement about the future of NBA players in college basketball.
‘Schools are recruiting and seeking eligibility for more individuals with more international, semi-pro and professional experience than ever before and while the NCAA members have updated many rules following the House injunction, more rules must likely be updated to reflect the choices member schools are making,’ the NCAA told The Field of 68.
John Calipari goes OFF on the NCAA and eligibility 😳
“THE RULES BE THE RULES. If you put your name in the draft, I don’t care if you’re from RUSSIA, you can’t play college basketball! If your name was in that draft, and you got drafted, YOU CAN’T PLAY COLLEGE BASKETBALL!” pic.twitter.com/s6p8PoOJID
— The Field of 68 (@TheFieldOf68) December 30, 2025 
The NCAA has granted four years of eligibility to James Nnaji, who will play at Baylor
Nnaji was drafted 31st overall in the 2023 NBA Draft and has not signed a contract with a team
‘At the same time, NCAA eligibility rules have been invalidated by judges across the country wreaking havoc on the system and leading to fewer opportunities for high school students, which is why the Association is asking Congress to intervene in these challenges.’
The affair sparked a furious reaction from Arkansas’ Hall-of-Fame coach John Calipari, who warned the NCAA that they could face legal action.
In an impassioned statement on Monday night, he said: ‘The rules be the rules! So if you put your name in the draft – I don’t care if you’re from Russia – and you stay in the draft, you can’t play college basketball.’
He continued: ‘I don’t blame coaches – I have friends that are playing with 27-year-olds and they feel bad. I say: “Don’t feel bad, we don’t have any rules – why should you feel bad?”‘
Xavier head coach Richard Pitino, meanwhile, responded to the NCAA’s statement on social media. He wrote simply: ‘Yikes’
Nnaji never played in the NBA or in the G-League but he has been playing professional basketball since 2019. Nnaji also took part in NBA Summer League games this year.
Earlier this week, longtime Michigan State coach Tom Izzo savaged the authorities over the ruling.
‘I thought I’d seen the worst — then Christmas came,’ Izzo said, per USA Today. ‘Now we’re taking guys that were drafted in the NBA and everything… if that’s what we’re going to, shame on the NCAA. Shame on the coaches, too, but shame on the NCAA because coaches are gonna do what they gotta do, I guess.’
Nnaji never played in the NBA but he has been playing professional basketball since 2019
He added: ‘Those people on those committees that are making those decisions to allow something so ridiculous… I just don’t agree with it.’
Purdue coach Matt Painter, meanwhile, said: ‘We just want to know the rules so we can abide by them. We don’t know what’s going on.
‘We need some leadership, we need someone to step up and [break down] how it’s ran… give us the rules and we’ll abide by them. Because that’s who the rules are for, the rules aren’t for the people who cheat.’
He added: ‘This all goes down and there’s no communication. We just want to know. Tell us what to do… there’s a lot of gray area right now.’
Gonzaga coach Mark Few claimed ‘it’s wild out there right now,’ claiming: ‘We really don’t have any organizational or any real rules right now. So I think guys are just trying to do whatever they can and until there’s a rule that says you can’t do it, it’s hard to blame anybody for doing what they’re doing.’
He added: ‘A lack of leadership has really shown. Now it’s probably time to get some help from Congress but they’re more screwed up than the NCAA is!’
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NCAA sparks college basketball meltdown with statement on shock ruling that could change sports forever
British heavyweight boxer, Tyson Fury has broken his silence following the serious road accident involving long-time rival Anthony Joshua in Nigeria, as the former heavyweight champion also dropped a fresh hint about a possible return to the ring.
Naija News reports that Anthony Joshua was involved in a fatal crash on Monday along the Lagos-Ibadan expressway in Makun, where two key members of his team, Kevin Latif Ayodele and Sina Ghami, lost their lives.
The SUV carrying them reportedly slammed into a stationary truck, triggering scenes of devastation that have since grabbed the attention of the boxing world.
The police confirmed that Joshua escaped with what were described as minor injuries.
However, sources close to the 36-year-old have raised concerns that the extent of his injuries could be more serious than initially made public, especially after footage from the scene showed him wincing as he was assisted away from the wreckage.
Reacting to the tragedy, Fury took to Instagram to write: “This is so sad. May God give them a good bed in heaven.”
The message came only minutes after the 37-year-old appeared to tease a return to boxing in 2026, despite previously insisting he had retired for good last January.
Fury posted a photograph of himself with his sons, Prince and Johnboy, all wearing shirts bearing the message: “I’m back. Fury. My legacy. Old School.”
The timing of Fury’s post has inevitably fuelled speculation around a long-awaited showdown between him and Joshua.
A clash between the two dominant British heavyweights of the past decade had been widely discussed for 2026, particularly after Joshua’s recent comeback victory over Jake Paul. Those plans, however, now appear uncertain in light of the accident.
Joshua’s promoters, Matchroom Boxing, confirmed the deaths of Ayodele and Ghami in an emotional statement released on Monday night.
“It is with the deepest and most profound sadness that we confirm, following a road traffic accident in Lagos, Nigeria earlier today, the death of Sina Ghami and Kevin ‘Lateef’ Ayodele,” the statement read.
“Both were close friends and integral members of Anthony’s team.
“We respectfully ask that space and privacy be given to the families at this time while they process this truly shocking and devastating news.”
Earlier, officials in Nigeria confirmed that Joshua was awake and able to speak with his family after receiving medical attention. A spokesperson for the Ogun State Government said Joshua and another passenger were swiftly transferred to a specialist medical facility in Lagos.
“Following comprehensive clinical assessments, doctors have confirmed that both patients are stable and do not require any emergency medical intervention at this time,” the spokesperson said.
“Anthony Joshua is conscious and has been in communication with his family. A full medical team will continue to monitor them closely.
“The Governments of Ogun and Lagos States are closely monitoring the situation, and investigations into the circumstances surrounding the accident have commenced. We kindly request privacy for Anthony Joshua and his family at this time.”
Nigeria will face Uganda as they round off their group stage campaign at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, on Tuesday night.
The Super Eagles are one of the six countries who have already made it into the Round of 16, following wins against Tanzania and Tunisia.
But the three-time African champions need to avoid defeat, to ensure they finish top of Group C.
For the Cranes, they will just be playing for pride, as they have been eliminated from the tournament.
Kick-off is 5pm WAT at the Fez Stadium in Fes, Morocco.
DAILY POST will provide live updates from Nigeria’s match against Uganda.
The English Premier League action returns in full force this midweek as Matchday 19 of the 2025-2026 season takes centre stage, with several mouth-watering ties lined up across Tuesday and Thursday.
Former Arsenal star Paul Merson has weighed in with his predictions ahead of the Premier League fixtures, offering insight into what could be another dramatic round in England’s top flight.
The spotlight on Tuesday night falls on the Emirates Stadium, where leaders Arsenal welcome high-flying Aston Villa in a clash with major title implications. Elsewhere in London, Chelsea hosts Bournemouth at Stamford Bridge, while Manchester United faces bottom-side Wolves at Old Trafford.
Thursday’s schedule is just as compelling, with champions Manchester City travelling to take on Sunderland, while Liverpool host Leeds United at Anfield.
Arsenal head into the Premier League matchday 19 sitting top of the table with 42 points, holding off Manchester City and Aston Villa in a tightly packed title race. At the other end, Wolves remain rooted to the bottom with just two points from 18 games, making their trip to Old Trafford a daunting task.
Speaking via Sportskeeda, Merson expects clear wins for several of the league’s heavyweights, while tipping a few tight encounters elsewhere. The following are his predictions:
Burnley 0-2 Newcastle United
Chelsea 2-0 Bournemouth
Nottingham Forest 1-0 Everton
West Ham United 1-1 Brighton & Hove Albion
Arsenal 3-1 Aston Villa
Manchester United 3-1 Wolves
Crystal Palace 1-1 Fulham
Liverpool 3-1 Leeds United
Brentford 2-0 Tottenham Hotspur
Sunderland 1-3 Manchester City
Premier League Matchday 19 Fixtures and Kick-off Times
Tuesday
8:30 p.m.: Burnley vs Newcastle United
8:30 p.m.: Chelsea vs Bournemouth
8:30 p.m.: Nottingham Forest vs Everton
8:30 p.m.: West Ham United vs Brighton & Hove Albion
9:15 p.m.: Arsenal vs Aston Villa
9:15 p.m.: Manchester United vs Wolves
Thursday, 1 January
6:30 p.m.: Crystal Palace vs Fulham
6:30 p.m.: Liverpool vs Leeds United
9 p.m.: Sunderland vs Manchester City
9 p.m.: Brentford vs Tottenham Hotspur
Wikki Tourists have commended their players for the team’s resilience and determination in the 2-2 draw with Warri Wolves in the matchday 19 fixture on Sunday.
Imamu Bala Magaji bagged a brace for Warri Wolves in the game.
Seth Mayi and Ezekiel Oroh scored for Warri Wolves.
Wikki Tourists are adamant that with the level of performance the team can end their barren run.
“A true show of character, resilience, and determination,” Wikki Tourists stated after the game at the Southern Delta University Stadium.
“Here’s hoping this marks the beginning of more goals, stronger performances, and consistent results in the matches ahead.”
Tunisia head coach Sami Trabelsi has said his team must approach their last group game against Tanzania with the right mentality, reports Completesports.com.
The Carthage Eagles will be aiming to bounce back from the 3-2 defeat to Nigeria when they take on the Taifa Stars.
A draw will be enough for Tunisia to secure their passage into the Round of 16.
Read Also:AFCON 2025: Nigeria’s Wins Against Tanzania, Tunisia Doesn’t Matter To Us — Uganda Midfielder, Alhassan
The North Africans can also still top Group C in case they beat Tanzania, and Nigeria lost to Uganda.
“Tactics are important, yes, but without mental strength and sharpness, it becomes very difficult to win a match like this,”Trabelsi was quoted by CAFonline.
“Our focus has been on building that mentality for a crucial moment.”
Progression would mark a 15th appearance in the knockout stages for Tunisia, reinforcing their reputation as one of Africa’s most consistent tournament performers.
By Adeboye Amosu
Super Eagles captain, Wilfred Ndidi has described representing Nigeria as a great honour and privilege, revealing how wearing the national colours comes with the responsibility of carrying the hopes of over 200 million Nigerians.
Speaking after Nigeria secured qualification to the Round of 16 at the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Morocco 2025, the Beşiktaş midfielder expressed his pride in the team’s achievement while highlighting the steady progress being made within the squad.
“We Have Crossed This Line” – Wilfred Ndidi on RO16 Qualification
Ndidi began by acknowledging the importance of Nigeria’s advancement to the knockout stage, noting that crossing the group-stage hurdle was a key milestone in the team’s journey.
“I must say I’m very happy. At least we have crossed this line. We are now to the next round of the tournament.”
The Super Eagles booked their place in the Round of 16 after back-to-back victories, reinforcing their status as one of the early qualifiers in the competition.
The Super Eagles skipper emphasized that tournament football is about continuous improvement, with each match offering lessons and opportunities to grow.
“And by the grace of God, in this kind of tournament, you always try to look at the performance of the boys, match in, match out.”
Ndidi pointed out that the team has shown visible improvement compared to their previous outing.
“Now we have seen a lot of progress from the last match. And I know there’s some little hiccups that we have in this game.”
Wilfred Ndidi Acknowledges Squad Weaknesses
Nigeria have enjoyed strong results with two wins from two games, however, the captain admitted that the performance was not flawless and revealed that both players and coaches are aware of areas that need correction.
“The coaches are aware of it as well as the players. We hope to see a better game against Uganda.”
His commented that the squad is committed to self-assessment and growth as they prepare for their final Group C fixture.
Read More: AFCON 2025: EXCLUSIVE: “Never Undermine Nigeria”- Salomon Kalou Warns Against Facing Super Eagles
Read More: AFCON 2025: “Raise Your Standards” – Captain Ndidi Urges his Teammates
Read More: Super Eagles move top of Group C as Eric Chelle Praises Nigeria’s Intensity
“A Privilege and a Responsibility”
Beyond the immediate results, Ndidi shared what it truly means to represent Nigeria at the highest level, describing national duty as both an honour and a heavy responsibility.
The newly appointed Super Eagles captain stressed that every player dreams of wearing the green and white jersey and revealed that he always gives his best in the hope of inspiring the next generation, just as he once looked up to senior players during his early days.
For Ndidi, leadership goes beyond the armband; it is about setting standards, encouraging teammates, and reminding everyone of the weight and pride that comes with playing for Nigeria.
Focus Shifts to Uganda
With qualification already secured, attention now turns to Nigeria’s final group-stage match against Uganda, where the Super Eagles will look to refine their performance and build momentum ahead of the knockout rounds.
Date: Tuesday, 30th of December, 2025
Venue: Fes, Morocco
Time: 17:00 GMT (Nigerian time)
Fulham star, Alex Iwobi has brushed aside talk of individual honours at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, insisting his only concern is helping Nigeria move closer to a fourth continental title.
The Super Eagles midfielder has been a steady presence in Nigeria’s midfield, dictating tempo and linking play as the team eased into the round of 16 at the tournament.
Alex Iwobi’s quality was on full display in Nigeria’s opening group match against Tanzania, where he supplied two assists in the 2-1 win.
He created the opener for Semi Ajayi before setting up Ademola Lookman for the winning goal. That showing made him only the second Nigerian player since 2010 to record two assists in a single AFCON match.
Iwobi, 29, followed it up with another composed performance in the 3-2 victory over Tunisia, completing 51 accurate passes from 59 attempts and playing a crucial role in the move that led to Nigeria’s third goal.
Despite his influence, the Fulham midfielder has yet to win a Player of the Match award, but he made it clear that such recognition is not important to him.
“Man of the Match doesn’t matter,” Iwobi said.
“I think Mola deserves it, two assists and one goal. It doesn’t matter who performs as long as the team performs.”
Iwobi also looked back on Nigeria’s last meeting with Tunisia at the 2021 AFCON in Cameroon, when he was sent off shortly after coming on as a substitute in a defeat that ended the Super Eagles’ campaign. This time, he said, there were no lingering feelings from that experience.
“It’s special. I forgot what happened in 2022, but the main thing is that we won,” he said. “It was an amazing team performance, and a credit to Tunisia, they were good opponents.”
With 93 international caps, Alex Iwobi is the most experienced player in the Super Eagles squad in Morocco and is appearing at his third AFCON.
Nigeria are chasing a fourth title, having previously won the tournament in 1980, 1994 and 2013.
Wikki Tourists have assured that they will bounce back stronger in the second stanza of the Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL.
The Bauchi Elephants recorded five wins, eight draws, and six defeats in 19 games in the first round.
Wikki Tourists currently occupy 14th position on the NPFL table with 23 points.
“We remain committed to coming back stronger and giving our fans more reasons to cheer in the remainder of the season,” Wikki Tourists stated on Tuesday.
Meanwhile, the team has embarked on a five-day mid-season break to refresh ahead of the second stanza of the season.
The players and their officials are expected to resume on Sunday, January 4, 2026.
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Luke Littler is branded ‘ARROGANT’ after lashing out at booing Ally Pally crowd who ‘pay my prize money’ as teenage sensation turns into pantomime villain
Luke Littler has admitted he ‘lost his head’ on the stage after hitting back at fans for their boos during the World Darts Championships at Ally Pally.
The defending champion, 18, saw off Rob Cross 4-2 in a tricky last-16 clash in which he was booed by some sections of the crowd.
‘I’m not bothered, really I’m not bothered,’ Littler said when asked about the boos immediately after the match.
‘Can I just say one thing? You guys paid for tickets and you’re paying for my prize money – so thank you for my money.
‘Thank you for booing me, come on!’
Littler was questioned about his response to what he labelled a ‘hostile’ atmosphere during the match, as the crowd got behind Cross.
Luke Littler hit out at Ally Pally fans over their boos and thanked them for his prize money
‘I think I lost it, I think it is still on there [the stage],’ Littler said.
‘It is one of those things, the fans, you have got to leave it all in there and give out the odd little ones for the checkouts and breaks of throw, but leave it all until that winning dart.
‘I think two years ago I would have started throwing my darts left handed, but that is how much I have grown and matured.
‘People might not say I am mature, but try being in my position.
‘I think it is the first time I have been at the World Championships and the crowd haven’t wanted me to win.
‘I expect the worst on New Year’s Day, whoever I do play.’
Some darts fans have accused Littler of arrogance following his on stage comments and urged the youngster to remain humble.
‘Great game ruined by daft comments at the end,’ one fan wrote on social media.
Some fans accused Littler of arrogance, but others defended his reaction to the crowd
Littler admitted that he had ‘lost his head’ on stage and ‘expects the worst on New Year’s Day’
Another added: ‘No one could doubt your skills and ability, but the arrogance ain’t good to watch. Keep humble even through greatness.’
‘Shame on you for your words after the game, saying the spectators are paying your prize money,’ a third said.
‘You’re a special player at 18, but unfortunately, your success has gone to your head.’
Others came to Littler’s defence, with some praising his ‘heel turn’ and willingness to take on the crowd.
‘YES! go on Littler! We were all shouting for you tonight. Your quote about tickets were iconic,’ one wrote.
‘Absolutely brilliant Luke. What a game that’s why you are the best in the world onto the next really really can’t wait.
‘Great finish to the year. Passion, you defo have.’
Littler is awaiting his quarter-final opponent, with the defending champion set to face either Luke Woodhouse or Krzysztof Ratajski.
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Luke Littler is branded ‘ARROGANT’ after lashing out at booing Ally Pally crowd who ‘pay my prize money’ as teenage sensation turns into pantomime villain
The Super Eagles of Nigeria will step out at the Fez Stadium at 5 p.m. (WAT) on Tuesday, December 30, determined to keep their momentum intact when they take on Uganda in the final Group C match of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.
The Super Eagles, who are assured of qualifying for the round of 16, have little left to prove in terms of qualification, having secured back-to-back victories over Tanzania and Tunisia.
For Uganda, however, the equation is far simpler and far harsher. Only a win will keep their faint hopes of reaching the knockout phase alive.
The fixture brings a touch of history with it. It is only the second time the sides will meet at the finals, with Uganda still fondly recalling their dramatic 2-1 semi-final win over Nigeria in 1978. Overall, the Cranes enjoy a slight edge in the head-to-head record, boasting four wins from eight meetings, compared to Nigeria’s two victories and two draws.
Uganda are also unbeaten in their last three encounters with Nigeria, a sequence that includes two wins and a draw. Nigeria’s most recent competitive success against the Cranes dates back to the 2007 AFCON qualification campaign, when Nwankwo struck the decisive goal in Abeokuta.
Despite that, Nigeria’s pedigree at the tournament remains unquestionable. Their win over Tunisia was their 35th group-stage victory at the AFCON, with only Egypt managing more.
They have now won each of their last four AFCON group matches, all by a single-goal margin, and another success on Tuesday would mark the first time they have won all three group games at a finals since 2021.
Under Eric Chelle, Nigeria have also shown remarkable consistency in front of goal, scoring in each of their last nine AFCON matches and in their last eight group-stage outings.
Much of that cutting-edge has come from the growing understanding between Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman. Osimhen’s headed goal against Tunisia, his second of the tournament, was again created by Lookman, meaning both of the striker’s goals at this AFCON have arrived via assists from the winger.
Lookman’s influence has been especially striking. His goal and two assists against Tunisia made him only the second Nigerian since 2010 to be directly involved in three goals in a single AFCON match. He now has eight goal involvements in nine appearances at the finals, five goals and three assists, as Nigeria focuses on sharpening their edge rather than simply protecting their status.
The midfield has also provided authority and balance. Captain Wilfred Ndidi has set the tone, while Alex Iwobi’s composure and intelligence have helped Nigeria control long periods of games.
Frank Onyeka impressed with his energy against Tunisia, and the availability of Raphael Onyedika and Tochukwu Nnadi gives Chelle options as he considers rotation.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference on Monday, Chelle stressed the importance of competition within the squad. He said, “The competition is not only for the starting 11; everybody deserves a chance to play and show what they can offer the team. Sometimes, a player who makes a cameo appearance can change the outcome of games and even win a tournament. For me, I want to present the best team every time.”
Uganda, by contrast, arrive in Fès carrying regrets. A defeat to Tunisia, followed by a draw with Tanzania, has left them bottom of the group on one point, with missed chances proving costly.
Their frustration was summed up by Allan Okello’s missed penalty in stoppage time against Tanzania, an opportunity that could yet define their campaign.
Veteran goalkeeper Denis Onyango has led a resilient side, while Nigeria-born Uche Ikpeazu, alongside Denis Omedi, James Bogere and Okello, remains central to Paul Put’s plans as the Cranes chase a result that could prolong their stay in Morocco.
Uganda have only progressed beyond the group stage twice in their AFCON history, in 1978 and 2019, and they know they must defy Nigeria’s recent form to repeat that feat.
Where to watch the Super Eagles of Nigeria vs Uganda clash:
Every match of the tournament will be shown across Channel 4’s network in the UK and Canada.
In Nigeria, the game will be broadcast live on NTA Sports 24, NTA’s national station and SuperSport’s dedicated AFCON channels on DStv. International coverage is available on beIN Sports, SuperSport, Canal+ Afrique, DAZN and other partner networks, with streaming options including beIN Connect, TOD and Fubo TV.
Abia Warriors earned a well‑deserved 1‑0 victory over Plateau United on Sunday in Jos, according to technical adviser Imama Amapakabo.
Taheer Abubakar’s lone goal secured the three points for Abia Warriors at the New Jos Stadium.
Amapakabo added that Plateau United were predictable throughout the match.
“Every victory is exciting because it’s been a while since we had a three-game winning streak. It’s an exciting feeling, as we needed to end the first round on a positive note,” Amapakabo remarked.
“Plateau United were too predictable because they were waiting for my team to make mistakes instead of trying to create something themselves,” he added.
The victory lifted Abia Warriors to second position on the league table with 33 points from 19 matches.
Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Stanley Nwabali, and Semi Ajayi are in danger of being banned for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations Round of 16, reports Completesports.com.
The quartet are a booking away from suspension going into tonight’s clash with the Cranes of Uganda.
Lookman was booked in the Super Eagles opening fixture against the Taifa Stars of Tanzania.
Read Also:AFCON 2025: Nigeria’s Wins Against Tanzania, Tunisia Doesn’t Matter To Us — Uganda Midfielder, Alhassan
Osimhen, Ajayi, and Nwabali were cautioned in Nigeria’s second game against the Carthage Eagles of Tunisia.
The four players could however be rested for the game by head coach Éric Chelle with the Super Eagles already assured of a place in the knockout round.
The encounter against the Cranes will hold at the Complexe Sportif de Fès.
The Group C encounter will kick-off at 5pm Nigeria time.
By Adeboye Amosu
SPORT
Why Bob MacIntyre’s near miss at Oakmont could yet be the making of him as a major force in golf
When Bob MacIntyre finds the time to pause and reflect on his 2025 season, it would be easy for him to fixate on events at Oakmont back in June.
He probably wouldn’t be human if his mind didn’t stray occasionally and wonder what might have been on that fiendishly difficult final day in Pennsylvania.
For a period of about 30 minutes in the closing stages of the US Open, it looked like MacIntyre was about to break his duck and become a major champion. The stars were aligning.
The conditions were brutal. Others around him were faltering badly. MacIntyre refused to buckle and his round of 68 was without question one of the very best of his career given the circumstances.
But it just wasn’t quite enough. JJ Spaun broke his heart and denied him any chance of a play-off by holing a monster putt from over 60 feet on the final green.
MacIntyre had started the day seven shots off the lead. Eventually finishing two shots back from Spaun, his golf had been sensational, even though he had fallen just short.
Bob MacIntyre reacts in the Oakmont clubhouse after watching JJ Spaun hole out for victory
MacIntyre had recorded a stunning 68 in treacherous conditions to put himself in line for glory
American Spaun held firm to finish strongly and claim his own maiden major title
Yet, a few months down the line, and with the season now at an end, MacIntyre can surely look back on Oakmont as foundational rather than painful.
Major champions rarely arrive fully formed. The vast majority of players suffer a few near misses before they finally get it over the line.
They endure some heartache before finally clinching one of the game’s biggest prizes. In the fullness of time, MacIntyre will recognise this as a necessary experience.
Rory McIlroy blew a four-shot lead in the final round of The Masters in 2011. Mercifully, MacIntyre doesn’t know that kind of pain just yet and it can only be hoped he never will.
But only a couple of months after his Augusta meltdown, McIlroy won his first major after blowing away the field in the 2011 US Open at Congressional.
That would be one of the most high-profile examples of a player who bounced back to win a major after a near miss.
Rory McIlory bounced back from a Masters meltdown in 2011 to win the US Open months later
It doesn’t always happen as quickly as it did with McIlroy. Sometimes, players have to bank these experiences over a number of years.
But if they keep knocking on the door, as MacIntyre is now doing, eventually it will open. The 29-year-old Scot is now at the point where he is ready to bang the door down.
Speaking earlier this month, he said: ‘I’m a big believer that it’s about getting statistically better every year. Results take care of themselves.
‘It’s difficult to win anywhere in the world. But, if you can get better year on year, then that’s all you can do.
‘That’s all I’ve ever tried to do since I got to a certain level and realised that I could do something in this game.
‘How do we improve? Do you know what, it’s sometimes not about improving every part of the game.
‘Like, it’s just sustaining certain things. Keep things at a certain level. See the things that are potentially a weakness and just get a little bit better at that.
MacIntyre can look back fondly on a majestic year that included victory at the Dunhill Links
‘I honestly believe I can do anything I want in the game of golf.’
The second-placed finish at Oakmont is MacIntyre’s best result in a major to date. He has also claimed top-10 finishes in the US PGA and Open Championship. His best finish in the Masters is tied for 12th.
He can look back on 2025 not only with a huge amount of pride, but also confidence as he heads into next season.
This was the year he broke into the top 10 in the world rankings for the first time in his career. He won another title on home soil at the Dunhill Links Championship.
That came on the back of him being part of a victorious Ryder Cup team as the Europeans triumphed over America at Bethpage Black in New York.
That was, of course, the second time MacIntyre has helped Europe win the Ryder Cup after his maiden appearance in Rome two years ago.
He looked far more at ease with himself this time around and it was clear that captain Luke Donald viewed him as a big asset to the team both on and off the course.
The Oban-born left-hander was a massive part of Luke Donald’s victorious Ryder Cup team
Across his efforts on the DP World Tour and PGA Tour, MacIntyre’s total earnings for the season sit just north of $10million. Not a bad year’s work.
In 23 events on the PGA Tour, MacIntyre only missed two cuts — one in the Genesis Invitational and the other in The Masters.
He recorded six top-10 finishes, including the runner-up finish to Spaun in the US Open, and also had 11 top-25 finishes. By every possible metric, it’s been a good year for the man from Oban.
MacIntyre will start his 2026 campaign by heading to Hawaii for the Sony Open in mid-January before teeing up in the The American Express in California the following week. But it’s the majors which will now be the focus of his attention. That is the only box left to tick on his burgeoning CV.
There are no guarantees of anything. You only have to look at the likes of Lee Westwood and Ian Poulter in recent history to know that nobody has any god-given right to win a major, regardless of their talent.
With the best years of his career very much ahead of him, MacIntyre still has time on his side. If he continues on his current trajectory, he won’t just be knocking on the door. He will be waltzing through it with his first major silverware in his grasp.
Manchester United legend, Peter Schmeichel hopes his old team will continue their good recent performance and achieve a much better result in the Premier League this season.
The last campaign was a big setback for the Red Devils because they ended up in 15th place in the top league and did not win any trophies.
That has left them without any European competitions this season, and after a surprising early departure from the Carabao Cup at the hands of Grimsby Town, they now have just the league to focus on.
Ruben Amorim’s team is currently sixth in the league, just three points behind the fourth place.
A victory against Newcastle United last time means they are now tied on points with Chelsea, who are in fifth place, so there’s some positive feeling coming back to Old Trafford.
Iconic goalkeeper, Schmeichel, is not getting too excited, but he believes they can keep up their current level and end the season in a similar position as they are right now.
“I think fifth or sixth. Fifth place is good, but they’re competing with a few other clubs that are also doing really well,” the Dane said on ViaPlay.
“But I think that’s the level Manchester United are at. With the signings of Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo, they should be able to finish around fifth or sixth,” he said.
When asked if he would be happy with that position, he said, “If fifth place gives them a chance to play in the Champions League, I would be very happy.”
However, it is still uncertain whether fifth place will be enough for a spot in the Champions League next season.
Schmeichel was with Liverpool’s former star Jan Molby, who was not very confident about United’s chances of getting back into European competitions next season.
“I think they’re pretty capable of finishing somewhere between fifth and tenth,” said the former midfielder.
“I think that’s the issue with Manchester United’s season. You keep thinking about the next game, and if they win, it’s a good season, but if they lose, you’re back to where you started.”