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Chelsea icon, 57, is diagnosed with cancer and undergoing chemotherapy after shedding five stone
Chelsea legend Dan Petrescu has been diagnosed with cancer aged 57 and is said to be in a ‘very serious’ condition.
The Romanian, who played for the Blues between 1995 and 2000, is undergoing chemotherapy treatment.
Petrescu won five trophies with the west London side after signing from Sheffield Wednesday and was the first overseas played to amass 100 appearances for the club.
He has since gone on to an eclectic career in management – taking on 19 different jobs – and resigned from his fourth stint at CFR Cluj in his homeland in August.
Early in December, it was claimed that Petrescu had lost five stone but that he was recovering well after treatment with Chinese medicine.
But Romania’s football league president Gino Iorgulescu has now said: ‘I don’t know what to say – it is a delicate situation. May God help Dan to get better, for there to be a cure.
Chelsea legend Dan Petrescu has been diagnosed with cancer and is said to be in a ‘very serious’ condition
‘I don’t know the exact diagnosis, but I understand that it is very serious.
‘He is undergoing chemotherapy. I don’t know what he is doing.
‘He played for me, and he also worked for me as a coach at FC National. I was also friends with him.
‘Such news makes me uncomfortable – it makes my skin crawl.
‘I had, and still have, a good relationship with him. Since I found out his situation was very serious, I haven’t spoken to him.’
Born in Romania’s capital of Bucharest in 1967, Petrescu is said to have grown up practising his football skills with plastic oranges. From that, a glittering career was born.
Petrescu played a total of 208 games for Chelsea and won two FA Cups, the League Cup, the UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup and the UEFA Super Cup.
In England, he also played for Sheffield Wednesday, Bradford City, and Southampton, all in the Premier League, while also turning out for clubs in Italy and Romania.
He won league titles back in his home city and even reached a European Cup final with Steaua Bucharest in 1989.
Petrescu stepped down from managing Romanian side CFR Club for the fourth time in August
In early December, Cluj’s club president Cristian Balaj gave some insight into his situation, saying: ‘Dan is taking steps towards recovery, and his condition is evolving towards the better.
‘His daughters have come to the country, and were by his side.
‘He is in Cluj, having treatment, and it is for the best. I have gone for walks with him and taken him for treatment.
‘At one point he was being treated with Chinese medicine. It is important that he has taken these steps.’
Truly passionate about the game, while in the reserves at Southampton he issued a ‘play me or let me go’ ultimatum, saying: ‘For me football is a drug. I cannot sit on the bench and do without my fix.
‘I don’t want to stay in the second team. I’m only 33 and I have a lot more to offer.
‘If Stuart Gray doesn’t need me, I am ready to leave straight away.’
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Chelsea icon, 57, is diagnosed with cancer and undergoing chemotherapy after shedding five stone
AC Milan midfielder Luka Modric has opened up on how Jose Mourinho reduced Cristiano Ronaldo to tears at Real Madrid.
The Croatian midfielder witnessed the confrontation during their shared time at Real Madrid, revealing the incident stemmed from Ronaldo’s failure to track an opposing full-back.
Modric, who joined Madrid from Tottenham in 2012 following a £33million transfer, did not identify which specific match triggered the explosive exchange.
Read Also:AFCON 2025: I’m Happy I Had The Chance To Play Again With The Team –Uzoho
“I saw him make Cristiano Ronaldo cry in the locker room, a man who gives his all on the pitch, because for once he didn’t chase the opposing full-back,” Modric told Corriere della Sera.
“As a coach and as a person. He was the one who wanted me at Real Madrid. Without Mourinho, I would never have arrived. I’m sorry I only had him for one season.
“Mourinho is very direct with the players, but he’s honest. He treated Sergio Ramos and the new arrival the same way: if he had to tell you something, he’d tell you. Max is like that too: he tells you to your face what’s right and what’s wrong. Honesty is fundamental.”
Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has warned Nigeria’s Round of 16 opponents at the ongoing 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, AFCON, that he is unconcerned about who they face.
The Galatasaray star insisted that Eric Chelle’s men are fully prepared for their last-16 challenge at the tournament.
The 27-year-old spoke after captaining Nigeria to a 3–1 victory over Uganda on Tuesday.
The Super Eagles will face either Cameroon, Mozambique, or Ivory Coast in the Round of 16.
When asked about Nigeria’s next opponent in the knockout stage, Osimhen told reporters, “I don’t care about our next opponent [ Cameroon, Mozambique, or Ivory Coast] in the Round of 16. Anybody can come. We are ready for whoever comes next.”
The Round of 16 will commence this weekend at various venues across Morocco.
Uche Ikpeazu is rooting for the Super Eagles to win the title at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, reports Completesports.com.
Ikpeazu featured in Uganda’s 3-1 defeat to Nigeria in Fès on Tuesday night.
The Cranes of Uganda were eliminated from the competition following the defeat.
Read Also:AFCON 2025: EXCLUSIVE – What Nigerians Should Expect From Us In The Knockout Round –Obasogie
The striker, who was born to a Nigerian father has backed the three-time African champions to emerge champions in Morocco.
“I’ll be supporting Nigeria to win the AFCON. They’re a special group – very tight-knit,” he told reporters.
“I’ve been in their changing room, chatting with them, and they are very humble. The togetherness is there.
“Uganda is an amazing national team, and I love my Ugandan side and my culture here. Sadly, we’re out of the competition, but I wish Nigeria the very best.”
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Fresh crisis for Patriots as Christian Barmore is hit with domestic assault charge a day after Stefon Diggs was accused of ‘strangling’ woman
New England Patriots star Christian Barmore has been charged with one count of assault and battery on a family/household member.
According to documents filed in Attleborough District Court, the misdemeanor charge relates to an incident that took place in Mansfield, Massachusetts on August 8.
However, the criminal complaint was issued on December 16 and Barmore is due to be arraigned on February 3, just five days before the Super Bowl.
Barmore was a second-round NFL draft pick in 2021 out of Alabama and is in year two of a four-year, $83million extension that he agreed to in 2024.
In the court documents it is claimed that the victim had been in a relationship with the 6ft 5, 315lbs defensive end.
The court filing alleges that Barmore, 26, became angry with the victim over the temperature of the air conditioning in his bedroom. They also are said to have argued over food.
Christian Barmore has been charged with one count of assault and battery on a family/household member
Barmore was a second-round NFL draft pick in 2021 and is in the midst of an $83m contract
The victim is alleged to have told police that Barmore grabbed the victim’s phone out of her hands as she tried to leave the property.
The filing claims she ‘intended to open the door and scream for help’ but Barmore, who was diagnosed with blood clots last year, ‘grabbed her before she could and threw her to the floor’.
The court documents then show the victim claims Barmore grabbed her by the shirt ‘in the area of the neck’ and she tried to get back to her feet but eventually released her.
Court documents also show that an email was sent from the victim to police on December 4 that states she does not want to move forward with charges.
A team statement read: ‘The New England Patriots are aware of reports regarding a pending February arraignment involving Christian Barmore, which stems from an alleged domestic incident that occurred in August.
‘The Patriots were made aware at the time of the incident and informed the NFL in a timely manner.
‘The matter remains part of an ongoing legal process. We will respect that process, continue to monitor the situation closely, as we have over the past few months, and cooperate fully with the league. We will have no further comment at this time.’
Head coach Mike Vrabel is expected to speak at 1:10pm on Wednesday.
It comes less than 24 hours after his teammate Stefon Diggs was hit with charges of felony strangulation or suffocation and misdemeanor assault and battery after an alleged incident with a personal chef.
The wide receiver, who is dating and shares a child with rapper Cardi B, is accused of slapping and choking the woman during a financial argument at his mansion in the Boston suburb of Dedham on December 2.
According to the incident report, provided to the Daily Mail, the woman said he entered her unlocked bedroom, grabbed her from behind and ‘tried to choke her using the crook of his elbow around her neck.’
Stefon Diggs was hit with charges of felony strangulation or suffocation and misdemeanor assault and battery
Diggs is pictured with girlfriend Cardi B in courtside seats at Madison Square Garden in May
She told police on December 16 she feared she ‘could have blacked out,’ before being thrown down on to the bed by Diggs. The accuser initially hesitated to identify Diggs to police ‘due to his fame,’ according to the incident report.
Diggs, 32, is set to be arraigned on January 23 – days before the AFC Championship is scheduled to be played.
Legal problems involving two of the team’s biggest names threatens to derail a remarkable season for the Patriots.
Under head coach Mike Vrabel and powered by quarterback Drake Maye, the Patriots have already clinched a playoff berth entering the final week of the NFL season and look primed for a Super Bowl spot.
Back in October 2024, Barmore publicly apologized for accusing police of racism after he was stopped in Providence.
A partially redacted incident report provided to Daily Mail at the time revealed that Barmore was stopped for a traffic violation in the early hours of the morning.
Barmore was accused of operating an unregistered vehicle, failing to display plates properly, and driving with an expired registration.
He tweeted soon after accusing the police of being racist but, taking to social media, he quickly took those remarks back after bodycam footage was made public.
Barmore publicly apologized for accusing police of racism after he was stopped last October
Barmore claimed five officers stopped him in what he described as ‘racism at it’s (sic) finest’
‘A few days have gone by since the incident with the Providence police and I have had a chance to deeply reflect on my behavior,’ he wrote.
‘I want everyone to know that I’m sorry and I take full accountability for my actions. I apologize to the Providence Police Department , my teammates, and my family.
‘My mother was a police officer and I understand the pressures related to their job. Which I didn’t make any easier by reacting in the manner that I did. I am using this as an opportunity to learn and do better.
‘I have already met with members of the Providence Police Department to apologize in person.
‘It is my hope that they accept my sincere apology. That meeting is just the first step of many that I am taking on the route to self improvement.’
Super Eagles striker, Victor Osimhen has sent a message of condolence to Nigerian-British boxer, Anthony Joshua, who recently survived a deadly car crash that killed two people in Nigeria.
Recall that the accident occurred on Monday when a Lexus SUV transporting Joshua collided with a parked truck near Sinoma, before Danco, along the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway.
The Federal Road Safety Corps, Ogun State Sector Command, later ascribed the cause of the crash to over speeding and wrongful overtaking.
Reacting to the development, Osimhen, who is currently with the Super Eagles squad at the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations, AFCON, tournament in Morocco, said it was devastating news.
The Galatasaray striker also sent his thoughts to Joshua and condoled the bereaved families. He’s been one of the huge celebrities that has put Nigeria on the [World] map,” Osimhen said via Pooja Media.
“I think he’s done it for so many years. Hearing something like this, I think it affected a lot of us Nigerians.
“Condolences to the families of the deceased. It’s not a beautiful thing to lose a life in such a crazy manner. My thoughts are with him.”
Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has revealed the immense grief he faced after losing both his parents, admitting that he even considered quitting football.
In an emotional interview with ACL Sport on Wednesday, Nwabali said, “Most times I feel like quitting, you know? I feel like quitting because of my mom and dad. My mom was so dear to me. It’s really painful, man. Really painful to be talking about my mom today.”
He reflected on the depth of his loss, adding, “It really hurts. It’s not a nice feeling for any human being to lose both parents at the same time. I’ve tried not to dwell on it, but here I am. It’s very difficult.”
Nwabali lost his mother on January 1, 2025, just a month after his father passed away.
Despite the unimaginable loss, he credited his teammates for helping him cope and continue his football career.
“I remember talking to my captain about wanting to leave football. But with the help of some of my teammates, I keep going. It really hurts, but I’m standing here playing football,” he said.
Ahead of the round of 16 fixtures, Amas Obasogie has assured Nigerians that the Super Eagles will give more than what they gave in the group stage of the 2025 AFCON.
The Super Eagles picked up three wins from three matches in Group C to book a place in the first knock out round.
Obasogie, who has not tasted action in Morocco stated that it is going to be a different Super Eagles in the knockout phase.
Also Read: AFCON 2025: I’m Impressed With Alebiosu’s Performance Vs Uganda –Ex-International
“The group stage performance was top notch we played to the instructions of the coach,” Obasogie told Completesports.com. “From the players we are in top form a d everyone is putting their effort and we are looking forward to the second round. We were tested in every game but there was no tension for us as we were able to deliver.
“The round of 16 is a different tournament and we are going to give more than what we gave in the group stage. We will not underrate any team, whoever comes our way we will give more than what we gave in the group stage.
“We are hoping for good results as we have always trained hard ans hopefully we will see ourselves in the final.”
By James Agberebi in Fes, Morocco
Super Eagles goalkeeper, Stanley Nwabali, has admitted he sometimes feels like quitting football due to the loss of both parents.
Nwabali revealed this while speaking with ACL Sports.
The Chippa United stopper lost his mother only two months after his father passed away.
“My mom died around two o’clock today,” he said.
“So, on how I try to keep a lot of things to myself, try to move on, try to be a stronger guy I was.”
Nwabali also said the pain of his grief almost pushed him to leave the sport.
He added: “Most times I feel like quitting, you know? I feel like quitting because, yeah, you know, mom and dad, but my mom is so dear to me.
“Really, it’s so painful, man. It’s really so painful to be talking about my mom today, bro.”
Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher has rated Gabriel Jesus as a better player than Viktor Gyokeres at Arsenal.
The Gunners are five points clear of Manchester City at the top of the Premier League table after their 4-1 win over Aston Villa on Tuesday night.
Despite starting the game, Gyokeres failed to get on the score sheet while Jesus got Arsenal’s fourth goal of the game after making an appearance from the bench.
In a chat with Sky Sports, Carragher stated that Jesus has been more effective in the attack for Arsenal than Gyokeres.
Read Also:AFCON 2025: I’m Impressed With Alebiosu’s Performance Vs Uganda –Ex-International
“The one negative out of tonight for Arsenal is that Gyokeres should not be starting, when they have players like this. In a couple of games time, when Jesus is a bit more up to speed, he should be starting. He’s a better player than Gyokeres – that’s a fact.
“There’s been questions in the past asking if (Jesus) is good enough for Arsenal to go and win the league. But right now, he’s better than the guy they brought in who they thought was going to win them the league.
“Havertz or him as the central striker is a better player than Gyokeres. He lacks finesse and quality when you think of what they’ve got on the bench. I think Arsenal need to improve on Gyokeres and they’ve got players that can in Jesus.”
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Pep Guardiola in bizarre clash with Sky Sports reporter: Man City boss bites back and claims channel ‘put on screen the complete opposite of what I say’ after banning their questions
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola took aim at Sky Sports by suggesting that the broadcaster misrepresent his words.
The Catalan’s displeasure with the Premier League’s largest TV partner has been a long running theme throughout a decade in charge but has become more pronounced in recent weeks.
Sky were banned from asking questions at one media briefing in December, a decision thought to have been taken by Guardiola after viewing footage on their rolling news channel.
When responding to a question on City’s ongoing move for Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo, the 54-year-old sarcastically made a point about the TV behemoth during a press conference beamed live.
‘You are from Sky, right? OK, good,’ Guardiola said. ‘I have to be careful what I say. After that, it is completely the opposite (of) what you write and put on the screen.
‘That is why I said yesterday before and the day of the game – the transfer window is completely closed right now.’
Pep Guardiola clashed with a Sky Sports reporter during the Man City’s boss’ latest press conference
Guardiola suggested that the broadcaster misrepresent his words when he responded to a question about Man City’s interest in Bournemouth star Antonie Semenyo
City are looking to finalise a £65million deal for Semenyo in the coming days, with Oscar Bobb in negotiations with Borussia Dortmund over a loan and potential £30m permanent switch.
Guardiola takes City to Sunderland on New Year’s Day, with the Black Cats unbeaten at the Stadium of Light all season since promotion from the Championship.
The possibility of Rodri featuring has been talked up, the Spaniard on the comeback trail after playing just one minute of football since the start of October.
Pressed on the title race, Guardiola added: ‘A few weeks ago it was just Arsenal, two days ago it was three (with City and Aston Villa) and now two so we will see.
‘Sunderland are so tough. I remember in my first season when I went there the crowd was unbelievable. They have beaten Newcastle, plus Arsenal and Aston Villa could not win there. It will be really difficult but at the same time we are ready.’
Pep GuardiolaManchester City
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Pep Guardiola in bizarre clash with Sky Sports reporter: Man City boss bites back and claims channel ‘put on screen the complete opposite of what I say’ after banning their questions
The Super Eagles were back in training on Wednesday morning following Tuesday’s clash with the Cranes of Uganda, DAILY POST reports.
The West Africans defeated Paul Put’s side 3-1 in their last group game in Fès.
Victor Osimhen, who captained the team on the night, Ryan Alebiosu and Cyriel Dessers missed the brief session.
Alebiosu sustained an injury in the clash with Uganda, while Dessers is suffering from a knee problem.
Osimhen was rested to keep him fresh for the task ahead.
The Super Eagles are expected to observe New Year Day (Thursday) as a rest day.
They are still awaiting their Round of 16 opponents, who will be known later on Wednesday night.
Nigeria will face either Cote d’Ivoire, Cameroon or Mozambique in Fes next week Monday.
Ryan Alebiosu is facing one month out after suffering a serious injury in his debut game for the Super Eagles in Tuesday’s AFCON 2025 Group C fixture with Uganda.
Alebiosu made his debut for the Super Eagles in their 3-1 win against Uganda, making the starting line-up.
The Blackburn Rovers star suffered the injury after he pushed into the advertising board by a Uganda player in the first half.
After laying on the ground for some minutes he was back on his feet and played the full 90 minutes.
It was later reported that he suffered a deep cut to his right leg as a result of the collision.
In a chat with Completesports.com the team’s media officer Promise Efoghe said the injury is severe and Alebiosu, who is in the hospital, could be out for one month.
Also Read: AFCON 2025: Chukwueze Deserves Gift From Me — Onyedika
Meanwhile, Cyriel Dessers has a thigh problem and is expected to undergo a scan today (Wednesday).
The Olympiacos striker is yet to feature in this year’s AFCON for the Super Eagles who finished top of Group C with nine points.
By James Agberebi in Fes, Morocco
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Sam Kerr and Kristie Mewis tie the knot in Aussie sport’s wedding of the year as Matildas stars stun in all-black outfits
Sam Kerr and Kristie Mewis have tied the knot in a glamorous ceremony in Perth, Australia, with some big names from the world of women’s football all arriving to celebrate their special day.
The ceremony got underway at 5.30pm (AWST) at the magnificent Venetian estate, Villa Dionysus, which is situated just 23km from Perth’s CBD.
Kristie, 34, looked stunning wearing a sparkling wedding gown that featured a white lace corset that finished at her thigh. The corset was overlaid with a transparent dress that featured seams of sparkly material running down the length of the dress.
Sam also dazzled, wearing an all-black tuxedo, which was complete with a white boutonniere.
The happy couple held hands and gazed lovingly into each other’s eyes as they recited their vows in front of a large crowd of over 100 guests at the stunning Swan Valley venue.
Prior to the ceremony the 32-year-old Matildas striker had stayed at the Crown Towers hotel, just a 30-minute drive from the wedding venue.
She walked out of the lobby alongside her dad, Roger, with guests also seen leaving the hotel and heading to the venue via a coach.
Sam Kerr (right) and Kristie Mewis (left) have tied the knot in a glamorous ceremony in Perth, with big names from the world of women’s football all arriving to celebrate their big day
Mewis and Kerr stood face to face and recited their vows, but in a heartwarming moment, the former West Ham United star appeared to touch the Matildas skipper on the arm
Kristie, 34, looked stunning wearing a sparkling wedding gown that featured a white lace corset that finished at her thigh. The corset was overlaid with a transparent dress that featured seams of sparkly material running down the length of the dress
As part of the dress code, guests all wore black outfits, with Sam’s Matildas team-mate Emily Van Egmond, who got married earlier this year, also seen wearing a black tuxedo complete with a bow tie.
Steph Catley walked alongside her towards the coach, with the Arsenal defender also dazzling in a simple, yet glamorous, black, strapless dress.
A host of Matildas stars also joined them on the bus, with Alanna Kennedy wearing a black pair of trousers with a corset that had a keyhole cut out around her midriff.
She was seen chatting to Mackenzie Arnold, who similarly wore a black pair of trousers and a black dinner vest.
Guests were seen watching on as the happy couple recited their wedding vows.
Sam turned to face Kristie, before bowing her head and holding her partner’s hands.
The pair grinned at each other as the ceremony continued, with the former West Ham United star also appearing to touch her beau on the arm in a show of affection.
Prior to the wedding
Members of the wedding party gathered around on the terraces supping on glasses of champagne, with a group of Sam’s Matildas team-mates all seen chatting as they congregated in the shade of the Perth sunshine.
Located in the Swan Valley, just 30 minutes east of Perth, Villa Dionysus is a simply sensational venue, with the manor house, that is situated on a seven-acre plot of land, with its design being inspired by an 18th-century Venetian villa.
In March 2021, the manor was sold for a figure of between $2,278,000 and $3,240,000 and later underwent major refurbishment works.
The stately home, which has four master suites, is surrounded by some of Western Australia’s best vineyards. Inside the villa, guests are greeted with a magnificent foyer and lobby, which exudes grandeur.
Villa Dionysus also boasts a theatre room, wine cellar, library, a state-of-the-art kitchen and a swimming pool. There is also a guest house on the property that boasts an open-plan living arrangement.
Sam had dropped a bombshell during her high-profile court case this year that the pair had planned to get married in December and that they had been expecting a baby boy.
The Matildas star and her partner are understood to have first crossed paths while playing for competing clubs in the National Women’s Soccer League in the United States in 2019.
Sam had been playing for the Chicago Red Stars at the time, while Kristie was playing for Houston Dash.
However, as Sam explained in 2023, the pair were unable to meet up for a first date for three months, due to Covid restrictions.
The ceremony got underway at 5.30pm (AWST) at the magnificent Venetian estate, Villa Dionysus, which is situated just 23km from Perth’s CBD
Sam had dropped the bombshell that the couple were due to be married earlier this year during her high-profile court case in London
Kerr (right) beamed from ear-to-ear as she stunned in an all black tuxedo complete with a white boutonniere
Prior to the ceremony, Kerr had stayed at the Crown Towers hotel, just a 30-minute drive from the wedding venue
Mewis and Kerr first met back in 2019, when they crossed paths while playing football in America
The happy couple grinned and gazed into each other’s eyes as they recited their vows
It’s been a rollercoaster few years for the Chelsea striker, who has bounced back from an ACL injury, appeared in court, got engaged, became a mum and today got married
On a sunny 25-degree day in Perth, members of the wedding party gathered outside the venue, including multiple Matildas stars (Pictured right, Mackenzie Arnold), to cheers the happy couple
Guests wore all-black outfits as they mingled in the Western Australia sunshine
After the ceremony, the Matildas stars were seen chatting next to an outdoor chandalier (Mackenzie Arnold, right, Emily Van Egmond, centre)
They then proceeded to make their way to another area of the luxurious venue
Prior to the wedding, Mewis had described the venue as ‘beautiful’ stating that they had first seen the venue two-and-a-half years ago when they first got engaged
Kerr (pictured) stayed overnight in the Crown Towers hotel in Perth, along with her family and wedding party
Several of Sam’s Matildas team-mates were seen departing via coaches to the Villa Dionysus venue, where Kerr and Mewis were married (Pictured: R-L Mackenzie Arnold, Alanna Kennedy, Caitlin Foord and Katie McCabe)
During her high-profile court case in London, the Chelsea star took to the stand to give evidence and spoke on her relationship with Kristie, stating that the former West Ham star had ‘slid into her DMs’.
It wasn’t until several months later that the two were able to meet after they had first begun talking.
The pair subsequently fell head over heels for each other and a few years later, Sam and Kristie would both attend the 2021 Tokyo Olympics.
Their relationship had not been publicly revealed at the time, but rumours had been swirling that the two had been dating.
Australia and the US National Team would both be knocked out in the semi-finals of the tournament and would face each other in the bronze medal final.
The Matildas would suffer a 4-3 defeat during the match, and there were heartbreaking scenes at full-time with Sam dropping to her haunches, gutted by the defeat.
Kristie was then seen comforting the heartbroken Aussie striker in the middle of the field.
Not long after that, Sam took to Instagram to confirm the rumours, with the Australian publishing a snap of Kristie sitting on her lap while the pair shared a kiss. Their relationship would blossom with the smitten couple going on to share insights into their lives, with Kristie taking to Instagram later that year to wish her beau a happy birthday.
Villa Dionysus is located 23km away from the Perth CBD. It is an 18th-century Venetian manor that rests on approximately 6.9 acres of land
Kerr’s dad Roger (pictured second from left) was seen accompanying her as she left the hotel
Alanna Kennedy (centre) stunned wearing a black pair of trousers with a corset that had a keyhole cut out around her midriff
Kennedy (left) was seen chatting to Mackenzie Arnold (right) who similarly wore a pair of black trousers along with a black dinner jacket
Steph Catley (pictured) walked alongside her towards the coach, with the Arsenal defender also dazzling in a simple, yet glamorous, black, strapless dress
Matildas midfielder Emily Van Egmond (centre), who also got married at the end of last year, looked suave as she donned a black tuxedo and a pair of black shades
Van Egmond (right) and her partner Kat Thompson, who was not seen arriving with guests, recently announced the heartwarming news that they had welcomed a baby girl
Caitlin Foord and Katie McCabe (pictured left and right) watched on as guests boarded the coach
‘[She’s] my biggest supporter, always listening to me nag and complain, all of my crazy antics,’ she said.
In November 2024, the couple announced that they were expecting a baby boy, with their son, Jagger, being born in May 2025.
‘Our little man is here, Jagger Mewis-Kerr,’ the pair wrote on Instagram.
The couple, who live in London, have been candid in sharing snaps of their lives as new parents, with Sam and Kristie seen taking Jagger out for walks around the UK capital.
Sam recently opened up on what parenting is like, stating that it hasn’t changed her perspective on football, but her life at home is now a little different from what it once was.
‘I still love the game and I’m all in when I’m there. But it has changed my home life. When I come home, I’m not watching clips of myself anymore. I have better separation now, and it’s been healthy,’ she told the CBA Newsroom.
Kristie shared snaps of herself getting ready for their pre-wedding drinks reception on Tuesday, publishing a snap of herself holding her baby boy.
She revealed that while her boy was a little too young to have a role at the wedding, he would be walking down the aisle with his mum Sam, with the pair set to wear matching outfits.
On Tuesday, Kristie (pictured) and Sam appeared to host a drinks reception for their guests
The footballers are very candid when it comes to sharing insights into their lives on social media
The Matildas star and her partner are understood to have first crossed paths while playing for competing clubs in the National Women’s Soccer League in the United States in 2019
‘I feel like he [Jagger] is a little bit too young to have a role but Sam is going to walk with him down the aisle, which is very, very sweet,’ she said on the Mewis Squared podcast.
‘That is going to be gut-wrenching for me, I will sob when that happens.
‘He’s probably going to be wearing a little matching outfit with her, it’s going to be absolutely adorable so he’s just chilling for the ceremony.’
While Sam ends 2025 on a happy note, the Chelsea striker has endured a rollercoaster few years.
In 2024, Sam ruptured her anterior cruciate ligament during a Chelsea training camp in Morocco.
The striker would subsequently undergo surgery to treat the injury and would be sidelined for 634 days, before finally returning to play for Chelsea in September.
Earlier in 2025, Sam was cleared of the racially aggravated harassment of a British police officer, following a heated row at Twickenham Police Station in London after she and Kristie had been on a night out.
Kristie had stuck by her partner’s side throughout the ordeal, with the former West Ham midfielder seen holding Sam’s hand as they entered Kingston Crown Court, before breaking down in tears as the verdict was read out in court.
Kristie was seen during the Tokyo 2021 Olympics comforting the heartbroken Aussie striker after America beat Australia 4-3 in the bronze medal final
Kerr and Mewis went public with their relationship not long after the Games, publishing this snap of themselves sharing a kiss
After the trial had concluded, Sam stated that she was ‘putting this challenging period behind her’ before thanking Kristie and her family for standing by her.
‘I would like to thank my partner Kristie, my family, friends and all the fans for their love and support, especially those who attended court each day,’ she said.
In recent months, Sam and Kristie have been hard at work preparing for their big day.
The former US National team star revealed in November that she had been curating the set list for their evening of celebrations, opening up on some of the songs they’ll be dancing to late into the night.
‘I got some requests yesterday for two songs,’ Mewis said on the Mewis Squared podcast. ‘Two Fred Again songs.
‘I sent them to Sam and I was like, Sam wants these on the playlist. And Sam’s response to me was: “Fred Again will be on the playlist. Don’t you worry”.’
Super Eagles striker, Victor Osimhen has insisted that he is not thinking of equaling or surpassing the late ex-Nigerian international Rashidi Yekini’s goals record for the national team.
Osimhen, however, expressed hope he would equal Yekini’s record in the future.
The Galatasaray striker spoke at his post-match interview after captaining the Super Eagles to beat Uganda 3-1 in Tuesday’s AFCON group stage tie.
DAILY POST reports that Osimhen is just giving goals away from equaling Yekini’s goals record for the Auowe Eagles.
The 27-year-old former Napoli attacker has so far scored 32 goals for Nigeria, while Yekini had 37.
“The captaincy today gave me a strong sense of belonging. I’m not thinking about equaling or surpassing Rashidi Yekini’s record for now; it’s all about the team,” Osimhen told reporters after Nigeria won against Uganda.
“I am trying to fight for my team to get goals, assists, but yes, hopefully not this AFCON and maybe not the qualifiers, but one day I know I am going to get there.”
SPORT
TECNO Brings Immersive Fan Experience To AFCON 2025 With Pop-Up Stores And Interactive Zones Across Morocco
Dual-city activation in Rabat and Casablanca showcases AI-powered experiences, creative workshops, and community engagement throughout tournament
Following the opening of the Africa Cup of Nations 2025, TECNO extended its tournament presence into public spaces across Morocco through a series of TECNO AI pop-up stores and fan zones in Rabat and Casablanca. Designed to bring AI-powered innovation closer to consumers, these spaces allowed visitors to experience how TECNO AI enhances everyday smartphone usage, from photography and gaming to productivity and entertainment. In total, the brand activated four experiential venues, two pop-up stores and two fan zones, with one of each established in both cities, creating a parallel rollout across Morocco’s major urban centers.
The opening ceremony marked the starting point of TECNO’s AFCON “Power Your Moment” campaign, welcoming invited clients, guests, and partners as the tournament officially began. From the same day, the brand opened its physical spaces to the public, shifting from a symbolic brand moment to hands-on consumer engagement.
This approach enabled TECNO to stay connected with fans throughout different stages of the competition, offering repeated opportunities to discover TECNO AI features in real-life scenarios rather than limiting interaction to a single event. Special performances featuring live juggling ball demonstrations alongside African song and dance were presented on December 21 and are scheduled to return on January 18, creating a vibrant environment that blended technology, culture, and entertainment.
Related: TECNO In Partnership With Lagos State Sports Commission Launches Babajide Sanwo-Olu Mini Stadium At Sura
TECNO AI Pop-Up Stores: An Immersive Fan-First Experience
The TECNO AI pop-up stores, deployed in Casablanca and Rabat and located near Mohammed V Stadium and Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium respectively, were designed as immersive, consumer-centric environments rather than conventional retail spaces. Open for a limited period during the AFCON 2025 tournament, each location combined product discovery with interactive AI demonstrations, allowing visitors to test TECNO AI features directly across multiple touchpoints.
Upon arrival, guests were welcomed in a reception area offering complimentary gifts and guided experiences, while simple interactive challenges encouraged participation and social sharing. By connecting physical interaction with digital engagement, the pop-up stores translated advanced AI technology into clear, tangible benefits that consumers could immediately understand and enjoy.
At the heart of the TECNO AI pop-up store, the AI Experience Area brought TECNO AI to life through practical, real-world applications showcased on large-format screens and interactive stations. Visitors could test TECNO AI features hands-on, discovering how AI enhances everyday moments such as photography, content creation, and daily productivity. By placing consumers directly in control of the experience, the activation positioned TECNO AI not as a distant technology, but as an intuitive, accessible tool designed to make daily smartphone use smarter, easier, and more creative.
A fashion-inspired clothing swap installation offered jerseys representing the 24 national teams competing in AFCON 2025, allowing fans to express tournament allegiances while engaging in a creative, participatory activity. Nearby, the Champions Road installation invited visitors to interact with a team matchup chart using magnetic team markers, encouraging predictions and photo sharing that extended the experience beyond the physical space.
The Product Experience Area provided hands-on access to TECNO’s latest smartphone lineup and connected devices, supported by on-site brand representatives. A customization station allowed visitors to personalize their phones with tournament-themed back stickers, creating tangible mementos linked to the AFCON experience. Photo areas throughout the pop-up stores offered opportunities to capture moments against branded backdrops, while a CSR Culture Wall highlighted TECNO’s community initiatives and long-term engagement in youth development and grassroots football across Africa.
TECNO Fan Zones: Bringing Fans Together Beyond the Stadium
Alongside the TECNO AI pop-up stores, TECNO’s fan zones were established in Casablanca and Rabat, located at Anfa Park and OLM Souissi respectively, as open-access community spaces operating throughout match days. Freely accessible to the public, without purchase or registration requirements, the fan zones welcomed football supporters and passersby alike, emphasizing shared experience over transaction. These spaces featured relaxed product discovery areas, free photo-taking and printing services, and interactive challenges designed to encourage participation.
Skill-based football challenges, including juggling and heading activities, animated both the pop-up stores and fan zones, creating moments of spontaneous interaction and crowd engagement. Giveaway mechanics were tied to simple social media actions, while classification-style photo activities encouraged visitors to capture and share moments online without competitive pressure, prioritizing participation and community visibility.
By activating simultaneously in Rabat and Casablanca and maintaining a presence across match days with special programming on key dates, TECNO established a sustained physical footprint throughout the AFCON period. Rather than limiting its engagement to the opening ceremony, the brand positioned its pop-up stores and fan zones as ongoing touchpoints within the rhythm of the tournament, embedding technology, football and urban culture into everyday public life during AFCON 2025 in Morocco.