The BBC were forced to offer multiple apologies during their broadcasting of Aryna Sabalenka’s Battle of the Sexes showdown with Nick Kyrgios – but fans still vented their fury over both broadcasting issues and the decision to host the contest on social media. 

The event had been mired in controversy since Kyrgios first announced that he would be facing off with the women’s world No 1 in September. 

Its detractors cited the sham of organising a clash between a men’s player currently ranked 671st in the world standings and persistently injured, and the woman at the summit of the ATP rankings, as well as Kyrgios’ own checkered past as a critic of women’s tennis on social media. 

News that the BBC had purchased the rights and programmed it on their flagship BBC One channel prompted further criticism, and on Sunday afternoon as the match was being played, social media users were still incensed by the decision. 

‘It’s genuinely dispiriting that our national broadcaster, the BBC, is showing Battle of the Sexes tennis match (Sabalenka vs Kyrgios),’ one user wrote. ‘An event which cheapens the sport and fundamentally betrays the legacy of Billie Jean King.’

‘Why on earth is BBC Sport showing the match between Sabalenka & Kyrgios?’ another added. 

Nick Kyrgios’ victory over Aryna Sabalenka in their Battle of the Sexes match was loaded with controversies on and off the court

The BBC were forced to offer viewers multiple apologies after losing pictures during the clash

‘Why don’t you make more effort to show the matches tennis fans would prefer to watch?’ 

A third added: ‘The BBC is disgraceful. Billie Jean King was a legend, Kyrgios vs Sabalenka is a joke.’

King herself, who faced off with retired player turned ‘chauvinist pig’ Bobby Riggs in 1973, was keen to distance the event from her own victory, which proved landmark in prompting cultural change around how women’s tennis was perceived. 

The 12-time Grand Slam-winner had said before the match that ‘the only similarity is that one is a boy and one is a girl. That’s it. 

‘Everything else, no. Ours was about social change; culturally, where were in 1973. This is not.’

There was neither social change nor pure entertainment on the menu at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai on Sunday, with a visibly unfit Kyrgios sweating and junk-balling his way to a 6-3, 6-3 victory against the four-time Grand Slam champion in just over an hour and a half. 

Sabalenka attempted to inject some levity into the proceedings with a showy entrance from the top of the stadium wearing a glittering trench coat set to the sound of ‘Eye of the Tiger’, and a dance break where she performed the Macarena, but failed to truly enliven a leaden audience. 

But even predictable tennis – albeit played on an unequal court, with Sabalenka’s side nine per cent smaller to reflect data showing women’s speed in comparison to men’s – proved hard to watch, with the pictures lost multiple times during the broadcast. 

The world No 1 made a splashy entrance to ‘Eye of the Tiger’ in reference to her nickname

But Kyrgios failed to give the contest an edge as he breezed to victory despite being far from match-fit

With the commentary pairing of former British No 1 Annabel Croft and journalist Andrew Cotter based in the UK rather than the UAE, both were forced to try and keep up with the score without the visuals of the match at times. 

Problems throughout the second set also saw the sound audible as the picture froze, with the BBC offering audiences their apologies via Cotter, and messages on the screen. 

‘Utterly rubbish pictures from the BBC during this debacle,’ one incensed commenter wrote on social media site X. ‘Is this what we pay £15 a month for?

‘#battleofthesexes #Sabalenka #Kyrgios #Tennis #abolishthelicencefee.’ 

Another agreed: ‘BBC finally get the exclusive rights to show a big sporting event and they keep losing the picture.

‘Welcome back to the 1970s.’ 

The BBC also received backlash from those representing the viewpoint some critics of the match-up had feared most, with some suggesting that the competition wasn’t worthy of the rights sale. 

‘The farce that women players get equal prize money for less work expsed (sic)’, a user wrote. ‘Now provably far lower quality tennis too with the female No. 1 vs male No. 500+ with a ruleset rigged in favour of Sabalenka and she still lots (sic). 

‘Ludicrous and appalled that BBC paid for the rights.’

For his part, Kyrgios believed that the event had been a success and that it had been ‘all the world was talking about for six months’. 

‘Considering I took away one of her strengths, her first serve, she’s an incredible athlete,’ Kyrgios said in his post-match remarks. 

‘The gap is closer (than the scoreline) – I’m not surprised. It could have gone either way. I’m not even joking.’

SOURCE PAGE

Rivers United have tightened their grip on the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) summit after edging past Rangers International 1-0 on Sunday, a result that opened a five-point cushion at the top following Nasarawa United’s heavy defeat in Kano.

A second-half header from centre-back Bolu Sholumade settled the NPFL Matchday 19 contest in Port Harcourt, striking in the 53rd minute to hand Finidi George’s side a deserved win and a commanding position going into the mid-season break of the league.

Rivers United’s advantage was further boosted at the Sani Abacha Stadium, where Nasarawa United were convincingly beaten 3-0 by a resurgent Kano Pillars. Playing their first home match after serving a five-game ban, the Sai Masu Gida made a statement in front of their supporters.

Mustapha Umar broke the deadlock in the 23rd minute before second-half goals from Chiedozie Okorie and Jibrin Mustapha wrapped up a comprehensive victory. The result lifted Kano Pillars off the bottom of the table and up to 18th on 19 points, while Kun Khalifat and Plateau United slipped deeper into trouble in 20th and 19th places respectively.

At the New Jos Stadium, Plateau United’s woes continued with a narrow 1-0 home defeat to Abia Warriors, their third loss at the venue this season. In Owerri, Kun Khalifat FC suffered a fifth home defeat, going down 1-0 to Katsina United.

In Aba, nine-time champions Enyimba ended the year on a positive note with a commanding 3-0 victory over Shooting Stars. Chinedu Ufere opened the scoring in the 16th minute, while late strikes from Edidiong Ezekiel and Chidera Michael put the result beyond doubt.

Elsewhere, Niger Tornadoes closed to within a point of the top three after a solid 2-0 home win against relegation-threatened Barau FC. Abdulaziz Dalhatu struck in the 35th minute before Rickson Mendos sealed the points in stoppage time. Barau, who had briefly climbed out of danger, slipped back into the bottom four on 21 points after 19 matches.

NPFL matchday 19 also produced notable results elsewhere, with Ikorodu City edging Remo Stars 1-0, El-Kanemi Warriors claiming a 1-0 away win at Bayelsa United, and Warri Wolves sharing a 2-2 draw with Wikki Tourists.

The league will resume for the second half of the season on January 7 with Matchday 20 fixtures. The mid-season transfer window opens on January 1 and runs until January 30, 2026.

NPFL Matchday 19 Results

Bendel Insurance 2-0 Kwara United

Kano Pillars 3-0 Nasarawa United

Rivers United 1-0 Rangers International

Plateau United 0-1 Abia Warriors

Niger Tornadoes 2-0 Barau FC

Warri Wolves 2-2 Wikki Tourists

Kun Khalifat FC 0-1 Katsina United

Enyimba 3-0 Shooting Stars

Bayelsa United 0-1 El-Kanemi Warriors

Ikorodu City 1-0 Remo Stars

SOURCE PAGE

Arabinrin Aderonke, a former sports administrator, has praised the Super Eagles for their impressive victory against Tunisia.

The win helped the team advance to the Round of 16 in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

After the challenging match, Aderonke commended the players for their toughness, strong discipline during the game, and positive approach in attack, especially against a confident Tunisian team coming off their first win against Uganda.

She told reporters, “I want to sincerely congratulate the Super Eagles on their brave and hard-earned win against a strong Tunisian team.

“Qualifying with a game to spare shows a lot about the team’s character, strength, and ambition,” she added.

Aderonke, who recently won Role Model of the Year at the International Sport and Culture Association (ISCA) in Copenhagen, Denmark, also praised the three goal scorers and the team’s overall performance.

She noted that the Nigerian team’s strong start had a positive impact on the entire game.

“The goals scored by Victor Osimhen, Wilfred Ndidi, and Ademola Lookman are not just the result of individual talent, but also reflect the strength of the team’s philosophy.

“This philosophy is based on discipline, confidence, and belief in the team. Even though Tunisia tried to come back, the Super Eagles stayed calm and determined, finishing the game strongly,” she added.

She also highlighted the importance of earning six points from the two matches, stating it sent a strong message about Nigeria’s intentions in the championship.

“Getting six points from two group games and making it to the Round of 16 is a good achievement for Nigeria.

“It shows that the Super Eagles are not just participating, they are genuinely in the race for the title,” said the soccer fan.

The Super Eagles are currently leading Group C. If they maintain their position, they could face the second-place team from Group D, which includes Senegal, Benin, Congo, and Botswana.

Arabinrin Aderonke encouraged the team to stay focused as the tournament continues.

SOURCE PAGE

Home should also be a place of safety daily, and though the best security measures might be installed, they might not hold for a long time. Technology is evolving at an alarming rate, and systems that were previously used may not be as safe as they should be for your family. The new models of Home Security Systems are more intelligent, have improved cameras, faster notification, and can blend easily with other smart appliances in the house. Not only will you find the stay at the old machines inconvenient, but this can also be hazardous to your loved ones.

In case you have not updated your system within a couple of years, it is worth reviewing its performance. This guide will discuss five obvious indications that your system is due for an upgrade, and how Allied Home Security can enable the people of Houston to update their protective systems without any unnecessary complications and waste.

Outdated Equipment

Though your old system may appear to be functional, it may be fast, ineffective, or in capabilities. Small keypads, slow sensors, and no smartphone functionality make it more difficult to control the security of your home. The old systems may not be compatible with smart devices, leaving loopholes that would expose your security. Obsolete equipment will aggravate the homeowners and lower their confidence in the system to respond in case of an emergency.

Common Problems With Old Equipment

• Small keypads, which are old and difficult to use when in high tension.
• Sensors that tend to have false alarms because they are poorly calibrated.
• Very little or nonexistent integration with smartphones and smart home devices.
• Deficiency in remote surveillance or alerts on emergency occasions.

The upgrade to the modern Home Security Systems will provide convenience, reliability, and more efficient protection. It is possible to move your system to Allied Home Security and continue using the one that you have to save time and money.

Poor Camera Quality

The eyes of your security system are cameras. When your footage is dark, scratched, or slow, you can hardly recognize people who come to visit, you can hardly watch your premises, or capture any case of suspicion. Older cameras are difficult when it comes to nighttime and can not capture important events, which will render your system ineffective. The modern Home Security Rig provides cameras of high quality in order to give you clear and detailed images that enable you to view every corner of your home both during the day and at night.

Read Also: Wirtz Is An Intelligent Player –Van Dijk

Benefits of Modern Security Cameras

• Sharp and detailed video quality with 4K or high-definition video.
• Night vision, which operates in low light or no light.
• Recording only significant events on motion.
• Streaming as you go on any phone or tablet, anywhere.

Allied Home Security is professionally installed, so the cameras will cover every critical area and minimize the blind spots so that you can monitor your property in real-time.

Limited Smart Device Compatibility

Your house is not a building; it is a system of interrelated mechanisms. Without the ability to connect with other smart technology, you will be missing the conveniences and additional security in your current system. Outdated systems do not usually interact with smart locks, lights, thermostats, or voice assistants, and you have to use different applications or devices. This may make your day difficult and create security lapses.

Smart Home Features You Should Have

• Smart lock, smart light, and smart thermostat integration to allow seamless control.
• App Management Centralized to arm or disarm the system anywhere.
• The voice-assistance compatibility with voice assistants, such as Alexa or Google Home.
• Automation and scheduling to save time, energy, and give peace of mind.

Allied Home Security is dedicated to integrating your increased Home Security Systems with your smart home system, and thus making it simpler to observe and operate everything from the same location.

Reactive Alerts Only

Most of the older systems do not alert the homeowners until an incident has taken place. Although such alerts are helpful, they do not stop incidents and offer early warning. The current Home Security Systems are interested in proactive security, which is the detection of any unusual activity and assistance in preventing any possible threats before they develop. Interactive systems make your house more exposed, particularly when nobody is around.

Proactive Monitoring Advantages

• Sensors monitor abnormal activity patterns before the occurrence of an incident.
• Mobile notifications, which are received instantly to be aware of the events.
• Suspicious behavior should be captured as evidence automatically in case of necessity.
• Professional round-the-clock surveillance to act immediately in case of an emergency.

In cooperation with Allied Home Security, you would receive proactive protection and a team of professionals who can always be ready to respond and help you make your home as safe as possible.

Frequent False Alarms

False alarms are not only irritating, but they can also desensitize a person to real threats and waste a precious amount of time. The most frequent reasons include using outdated sensors, placing them improperly, or the incompatibility between the parts of the system. The new Home Security Systems reduce occurrences of false alarms whilst indicating to you when there are real problems. Fewer alerts will reduce the risk of having a system that is not reliable and stress-free.

How Upgraded Systems Reduce False Alarms

• Further refined motion sensors that distinguish pets and intruders.
• The location of the sensors in the high-risk zones should be supplied.
• Notifying smart alerts only when needed.
• Installation and calibration by professionals are required to be correct detection.

Allied Home Security upgrading will make your system run smoothly, keeping your home safe and helping avoid the extraneous stress.

Conclusion

Your house needs well-maintained current security. The indicators that it is time to upgrade your Home Security Systems include: old gadgets, bad quality of the camera, lack of integration of smart devices, reactive, or frequent false warnings.

Allied Home Security can be trusted to provide professional evaluation, contemporary equipment, and experienced installation service to the Houston homeowners. The current upgrade makes sure that your home is secure, your system is easy to operate, and your family is enjoying peace of mind in 2025 and beyond.

SOURCE PAGE

The MCG has been handed one demerit point after the ICC deemed the pitch that was used during the Boxing Day Test match ‘unsatisfactory’.

In his assessment of the wicket, Jeff Crowe of the ICC’s Elite Panel of Match Referees echoed the views of many players past and present, stating that the pitch had been prepared ‘too much in favour of the bowlers’.

The ‘unsatisfactory’ rating is the second-lowest ranking in the ICC’s four-tier system. Should a venue receive six demerit points in the space of a five-year period, the ground can be suspended from hosting international cricket for a year. 

Players, fans and pundits have been queuing up to criticise how the wicket had been prepared, with England wrapping up a four-wicket victory inside just two days.

Twenty wickets fell on the first day of the match, with this also being the shortest-ever Test hosted at the MCG since 1932.

‘The MCG pitch was [prepared] too much in favour of the bowlers,’ Mr Crowe said when handing down his verdict.

The MCG has been handed one demerit point by the ICC after the governing body deemed the pitch used during the Boxing Day Test to be ‘unsatisfactory’

The ranking is the second-lowest on the ICC’s pitch ratings, with Cricket Australia now facing major losses of around $25million in the wake of the two-day Test

‘With 20 wickets falling on the first day, 16 on the second day and no batter even reaching a half-century, the pitch was ‘unsatisfactory’ as per the guidelines and the venue gets one demerit point.’

It is now being reported by The Sydney Morning Herald that Cricket Australia could lose up to $25million (£12.43m) in revenue after the Boxing Day Test ended prematurely. 

Stakeholders and broadcasters have been left ‘fuming’ following the match, with Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg telling SEN on Saturday that ‘short Tests were bad for business’. Greenberg also hinted that the governing body could pay closer attention to how pitches are prepared in future. 

‘We were disappointed for the fans holding tickets for days three and four, and also the millions of fans excited to watch the action in Australia and around the world, that the pitch did not provide the MCG’s customary balance between bat and ball,’ CA cricket chief James Allsopp said.

‘We appreciate the outstanding work the MCC (Melbourne Cricket Club) staff have done over recent years, producing excellent Test match pitches.

‘We’re confident they will deliver first-rate surfaces for next year’s Boxing Day Test against New Zealand and the hugely anticipated 150th Anniversary Test against England in March 2027.’

Interestingly, the ICC had ranked the pitch used during the Perth Test as ‘very good’, despite that match also finishing inside two days. 

On Sunday, Melbourne Cricket Club curator Matt Page fronted the media to claim that he and his team had got the preparations wrong, adding that he had been ‘in a state of shock’. 

While batters on both sides have been slammed for poor performances during the match, curators had left 10mm of grass on the wicket, resulting in 36 wickets falling in 142 overs across both days. The highest score from both teams was struck by Aussie star Travis Head, who amassed 46 runs during Australia’s second innings. 

‘I was in a state of shock after the first day, to see everything that happened and 20 wickets in a day, I’ve never been involved in a Test match like it, and hopefully will never be involved in a Test match like it again,’ Page said.

‘It was a roller-coaster ride for two days to see everything unfold.’

Page defended the decision to leave 10mm of grass on the wicket. 

‘This year we went in with 10mm as we knew we were going to get a lot of hot weather at the back end of the game,’ he said.

During last year’s Boxing Day Test, curators had left only 7mm of grass on the wicket, with Australia going on to seal a thrilling victory against India on the fifth day of the Test match.

Page had hoped to replicate those same conditions, but instead, the wicket became a fast-bowler’s dream.

England captain Ben Stokes was particularly critical of the wicket, telling TNT Sports: ‘I’m pretty sure if that was somewhere else in the world there’d be hell on [earth].

‘It is not the best thing for games that should be played over five days but we played a type of cricket that ended up getting the job done,’ Stokes added. 

Steve Smith issued some sympathy to the curators at the MCG stating: ‘Groundsmen are always learning and they’ll probably take something from that’

His Aussie counterpart, Steve Smith, was more sympathetic to Page and his team.  

‘Maybe if you took it from 10mm to 8mm (of grass), it would have been a nice, challenging wicket, but maybe a little bit more even,’ Smith said. 

‘But groundsmen are always learning and they’ll probably take something from that.’

Melbourne Cricket Club CEO Stuart Fox placed his support behind Page when pressed on the pitch debacle.

SOURCE PAGE

Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has brushed aside criticism over Nigeria’s failure to keep a clean sheet at the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), insisting there is no cause for alarm within the camp.

Nigeria have conceded three goals in their opening two Group C matches but has matched that with an impressive attacking return, scoring five times to secure maximum points.

The Super Eagles opened their campaign with a 2-1 win over Tanzania before surviving a late scare to edge Tunisia 3-2 on Saturday.

Those victories were enough to seal qualification for the round of 16, yet questions have been raised about the team’s defensive solidity, particularly after they allowed Tunisia back into contention from a seemingly unassailable position.

Goals from Victor Osimhen, Wilfred Ndidi and Ademola Lookman had put Nigeria 3-0 up before the Carthage Eagles rallied late on.

Montassar Talbi and Ali Abdi struck in quick succession to set up a nervy finale, with Tunisian captain Ferjani Sassi going close to an equaliser in stoppage time as his header drifted narrowly wide.

Speaking in the mixed zone after the game, Stanley Nwabali dismissed suggestions that Nigeria are carrying defensive problems into the knockout phase.

“Tournaments like this, you are bound to concede goals. Even the best teams in the world concede goals,” he said.

“I don’t see any problem in the defence. At the last AFCON, we kept clean sheets in our first two games, but things have improved overall. We also want to keep clean sheets and it pains me when I concede, but we keep going as a team.

“We scored from set pieces and they also scored from a set piece. That is probably one of their strengths. Sometimes you can’t correct everything, but we try to deal with it.”

Nwabali, 29, has grown into the number one role since breaking into the Super Eagles setup ahead of the 2023 tournament, which was staged in the Ivory Coast last year.

He has since edged out Francis Uzoho and Ojo Olorunleke for the starting spot.

In the current squad, Uzoho and Amas Obasogie provide competition, but Nwabali was quick to stress that there is no rivalry behind the scenes.

“My first AFCON was with Francis, and I knew Amas before I left Nigeria,” he added. “These guys are amazing and they are like my family. We cover one another. There are no bad thoughts or bad energy.”

The Super Eagles of Nigeria, who have already secured their place in the round of 16, will round off their group campaign against Uganda at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, December 30.

SOURCE PAGE

Morocco star Achraf Hakimi has disclosed that Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe loves the country.

The Real Madrid attacker travelled to the Moroccan capital to support Achraf Hakimi, his close friend and former Paris Saint-Germain teammate, during the Atlas Lions’ Group A meeting with Mali on Friday in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

Read Also:AFCON 2025: Super Eagles Clash Won’t Be Easy — Uganda Coach Put

Speaking of Mbappe’s visit to Morocco, Hakimi said: “Kylian Mbappe really loves Morocco. He’s enjoying our country. He’s enjoying Moroccan food, from what I understand.”

In addition, the 27-year-old also shared his thoughts on AFCON, and while he is confident in Morocco’s quality to go the distance, Mbappe remained optimistic about the Atlas Lions’ chances of winning the competition.

“He said we’re a candidate to win this AFCON, but there are also a lot of others,” Hakimi added.

SOURCE PAGE

Former Chelsea forward, Salomon Kalou has sent an encouraging message to Chelsea fans, particularly those in Nigeria, following the club’s 2–1 home defeat to Aston Villa on Saturday evening.

Kalou, who won the Premier League and UEFA Champions League during his time at Stamford Bridge, spoke exclusively on Sports Radio Brila FM after the loss dampened the mood among Blues supporters hoping to celebrate alongside Nigeria’s Super Eagles.

“Sometimes We Have Difficult Moments” – Salomon Kalou

Addressing the disappointment surrounding the result, Kalou urged Chelsea fans to remain calm and patient, reminding them of the club’s history of resilience.

“Well, Chelsea fans from Nigeria, Lagos, from all the way in Nigeria, everywhere, I mean, as a Blues fan, we know that sometimes we have difficult moments,” he said.

The Ivorian legend insisted Chelsea’s identity remains intact despite the setback against Aston Villa.

“But Chelsea always prevail.”

Confidence in Chelsea’s Ability to Bounce Back

Salomon pointed to Chelsea’s ability to rise above adversity, referencing past successes on the global stage.

“Chelsea show in the World Cup Club that we can always go beyond expectations and win games,” he said.

He acknowledged the club’s current league position but remained optimistic about the season ahead.

“Yes, in the league, we are a little bit behind the first three, but Chelsea can always bounce back. We are the team that always bounce back.”

“We Still Have the Cup Game and the Champions League” – Salomon

While admitting that the Premier League title may be a stretch, Kalou reminded supporters that silverware is still within reach.

“So I have faith that by the end of the season, we all will be in the top,” he said.

“We might not win the league, but we still have the Cup game and the Champions League.”

SOURCE PAGE

He asked for a table for two. ‘It was an unusual request for a Christmas dinner but we assumed he was apprehensive about being overwhelmed by a large crowd,’ says Nicky Reid, chief executive of the SPFL trust.

‘He came into the room alone, sat down at the table and put a photograph of his wife opposite him. We later learned that she had died only recently. He had his meal. He died three weeks later.’

This is what a meal can mean to someone. There is joy at festive dinners but there can be true meaning too.

This is just one story of what is the secret Santa of Scottish football. There may be a mystery to what the SPFL Trust delivers, but not among the thousands who are helped by it. Certainly not among the 26,000 who have enjoyed a Festive Friends dinner over the last 10 years.

The Stirling Albion Foundation was just one of 40 clubs who organised such an occasion. It was attended by some for whom it will be the only Christmas dinner of 2025. It offered a chance for others to meet people and dispel any loneliness that is sharpened by this time of the year.

It was also graced by Catherine Morrison, who at 93 found it ‘delightful’ and a change from her line-dancing class. ‘This is my third time here,’ she says. ‘Isn’t it lovely? Isn’t it wonderful?’

Catherine Morrison, 93, took time out from her line-dancing class for a Festive Friends dinner

Stirling Albion was just one of 40 Scottish clubs who opened its doors to the community 

The dinners allowed elderly and vulnerable football supporters to gather over the festive spell

It is. She is surrounded by pensioners, some from the Parkinson’s group that play football at Forthbank, and others who have been invited for a three-course meal, a rousing carol-singing and a visit from Santa.

‘I am very self-sufficient,’ says Catherine. ‘But this is a welcome treat.’ She still drives, lives alone and. of course, does her line dancing.

Her attendance at the lunch is in tune with her daily philosophy. ‘I go to church every morning, say my prayers, meet people and maybe have coffee with them. It is important to keep close to people,’ she says.

She lost her husband more than 30 years ago. They had no children so Catherine has forged another life. ‘I believe it is important to be active,’ she says. ‘I suppose you could call me a “going out person”.’

She enjoys football but as an armchair spectator. ‘I like it on the television. It’s great to see the fans singing and dancing.’

The singing begins in the room. There is a story in everyone present. They talk of the joy of reuniting with old friends, of finding advice for problems, of banishing some of the burden of everyday cares in a place of laughter and safety.

The SPFL Trust programme launched in 2016 as a pilot and has brought solace to tens of thousands. It also offers the chance to explore a secret Santa. What is the SPFL Trust and what does it do?

The SPFL chair Nicky Reid with Stirling Albion’s football development officer Craig Mair

Nicky Reid takes a breath, politely declines a dod of turkey, and tries to encapsulate her mission in bite-sized form.

‘We are the charity associated with the league,’ she says. ‘We are the strength of our network and our job is to improve the lives of people across Scotland. Football brings with it some challenges — we get that — but every day in the week we are working to help people.’

The Festive Friends is just one of the programmes as trusts and foundations at clubs bid to strengthen links with people who live on their doorstep.

The SPFL Trust may talk quietly but its impact is profound. ‘We as a country punch above our weight,’ says Reid. ‘I speak at international events and it is no exaggeration to say we are not doing anything different from the operations at Barcelona, Chelsea or Manchester United. I would argue we are doing it better, particularly because we have fewer resources and we are largely working with volunteers or part-time staff. We are probably the most community-engaged small to medium-sized league in the world.’

This is put in blunter, more powerful language. ‘We save lives and change lives,’ she says.

‘People come to us to be fed, people come to us who are considering suicide, we help those who are trying to reverse type 2 diabetes, we offer social interaction to people who might only experience that on one day a year.

‘It’s co-ordinated between us and those at the clubs.

‘We work together, we share ideas. It harnesses the best Scottish football has to offer and gives it back to people.’

Daily Mail Sport’s Hugh MacDonald speaks with 93-year-old Catherine Morrison at the dinner

This is exemplified by the people visited by Santa at Forthbank and other venues. There are those who have been reunited at events after long years apart. There was one pensioner who was struggling financially and attended an event at his club. He received advice that increased his benefits and changed his life.

‘It’s about people,’ says Reid. ‘Sometimes we forget to be kind and all this is an answer to that.’

It needs funds. The SPFL hands out £25,000 for Festive Friends. Fundraising and grants drive other programmes. But more help would be welcome from commercial sponsorship.

‘The need is increasing,’ says Reid. ‘The demand is growing.’

She welcomes Scotland’s qualification for the World Cup and not just as a fan.

‘There is a fundamental piece of leverage there,’ she says. ‘The World Cup brings attention to our game. There is, obviously, great stuff happening on the pitch but off the pitch there is so much to be proud of and so much for people to help us with. The World Cup publicity may attract those who have never thought of football and we have to get our message across that it is a force for good.’

She flits from table to table, welcoming the Festive Friends guests and chatting to volunteers who provide a superb meal, gifts and even persuade Santa to make a visit.

Sitting nearby, in a room packed with donations from local businesses, sits Craig Mair, football development officer at Stirling Albion Foundation.

‘My figures for the year show that we have 6,000 engagements with 1,500 people this year,’ he says. ‘We have about 300 people a week coming to the club for various activities.’

These stretch from the three-year-olds getting their first kick of a ball to the 83-year-old honing his first touch at the walking football.

Mair says Stirling provide opportunities for a wide range of ages to get involved with the club

‘One of our aims is to provide free or affordable football for all,’ he says. ‘We want to be a strong part of the community and that means offering something that is important to people.’

This theme is taken up by Jim Thompson, one of the trustees of the foundation. ‘We lost a young fan who took his life a couple of years ago and we thought we should be doing more for the younger generation in terms of mental health,’ he says. ‘We want to organise a solid youth club, we also want to move into football memories to improve social inclusion. We want to be here for the community.’

A retired police officer, Thompson is now editor of a programme magazine, organises programme fairs and is also a guide at the Scottish Football Museum at Hampden.

He is not just a fan of football but an advocate of the power the game has and that stretches far beyond the pitch.

‘People should know that the anchor point of their community is the football club. There are so many issues affecting people. We must be there to help them,’ he says.

The singing in the room merely puts this message to music.

SOURCE PAGE

Three countries have already secured their tickets to the Round of 16 at the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), with Algeria becoming the latest side to confirm qualification following another gripping day of action on Sunday.

Algeria sealed their spot with a narrow 1-0 victory over Burkina Faso in Group E. Captain Riyad Mahrez kept his composure from the penalty spot to score the only goal of the match, steering the Desert Foxes to a second successive win.

That outcome lifted Algeria to six points from two games, placing them out of reach of the chasing pack. Burkina Faso and Sudan both remain on three points, while Equatorial Guinea are still searching for their first point of the campaign. Algeria have once again shown they know how to navigate the group stages. Recall they won the AFCON title in 1990 and 2019.

Their qualification means they join Nigeria and Egypt as the only teams so far to have mathematically confirmed a place in the knockout rounds of the tournament.

Away from the Algeria match, Sunday also produced a surprise in Group E as Sudan edged Equatorial Guinea 1-0 in Casablanca. The decisive moment came in the 74th minute when Coco inadvertently turned the ball into his own net, handing Sudan a crucial victory that keeps their qualification hopes firmly alive.

In Group F, Mozambique breathed new life into their campaign with a dramatic 3-2 comeback win against Gabon in Agadir. Gabon had taken the lead through Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang just before the break. Still, goals from Bangal, Geny Catamo and Calila swung the contest in Mozambique’s favour despite a late Gabon response.

Attention later shifted to Marrakesh, where the Ivory Coast and Cameroon recorded a 1-1 draw in a high-profile Group F clash. This means that both sides currently have four points each in two games.

SOURCE PAGE

The results of Sunday’s 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, AFCON, matches are out.

DAILY POST reports that AFCON holder Ivory Coast played a 1-1 draw with Cameroon in Group F on Sunday night, thanks to goals from Amad Diallo and Ghislain Konan (own goal).

Also in Group F, Mozambique defeated Gabon 3-2 to occupy the third position on the log with three points.

Similarly, in Group E, Algeria defeated Burkina Faso 1-0, thanks to Riyad Mahrez’s first-half penalty goal, while Sudan defeated Equatorial Guinea 1-0.

Meanwhile, more AFCON Match-day three fixtures will be played today, Monday, as South Africa will face Zimbabwe in the evening.

Also in the evening, Angola will clash with Egypt, while Zambia will tackle host nation Morocco in the night.

On Monday night, Comoros will clash with Mali at the Stade Mohammed V, Casablanca.

SOURCE PAGE

Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has described Florian Wirtz as an intelligent player after his impressive display against Wolves.

Virgil van Dijk, speaking as captain, offered praise while outlining exactly what still needs improvement.

“I was very happy for him. He played a very good game. Everyone was outstanding in the first half. It’s great to see and hopefully many more to come from him.

Read Also:AFCON 2025: Super Eagles Clash Won’t Be Easy — Uganda Coach Put

“He’s getting used to playing for Liverpool and what we want to do as a team. He’s getting used to the intensity. After about 70 minutes I think he had some cramp. It’s part of the game. He just has to keep going. It was an important goal for us and now on to New Year’s Day.

“I think he runs almost everywhere. At times on the left, at times in the middle. He’s a very intelligent player who is so comfortable on the ball. He finds space between the lines and can be very important.

“He wants to be important in terms of goals and assists. The work rate he puts in and the chances he creates is what I think is even more important. I am really pleased for him, like the rest of the team. You saw the celebrations. Everyone is so happy for him.”

SOURCE PAGE

By JACK BEZANTS, US DEPUTY SPORTS EDITOR

Published: 04:47 GMT, 29 December 2025 | Updated: 05:10 GMT, 29 December 2025

Baltimore Ravens’ showdown against Pittsburgh Steelers, and potentially Aaron Rodgers last ever game in the NFL, will headline the last Sunday Night Football of the 2025 regular season.

The winner of that AFC North game will go into the playoffs and the losers will be finished for 2025. Rodgers, 42, is expected to call it a day once the Steelers season is over, whenever that might be.

The Ravens, meanwhile, kept their season alive by beating the Green Bay Packers on Saturday night with No 2 quarterback Tyler Huntley deputizing in place of the injured Lamar Jackson, whose status for Sunday night remains unclear as things stand.

Running back Derrick Henry scored four touchdowns and took 36 carries 214 yards in a sensational display.

San Francisco 49ers host Seattle Seahawks on Saturday night at 8pm ET for the NFC’s No 1 seed. Should the Niners win, it means they will be at home for the remainder of the 2025 season as the Super Bowl will be held at their Levi’s Stadium on February 7.

After Sunday night’s stunning 42-38 win over the Chicago Bears, they look every bit a Super Bowl contender as things stand.

Aaron Rodgers and Pittsburgh Steelers play Baltimore Ravens on Week 18 Sunday night game

San Francisco 49ers will play Seattle Seahawks for the NFC’s No. 1 seed next Saturday night

The shootout between Carolina Panthers and Tampa Bay Buccaneers for the AFC South is played earlier on Saturday, at 4:30 ET, to kickstart the weekend. Both Saturday games are on ESPN and ABC.

The Buffalo Bills will stage potentially their last game at Highmark against the struggling New York Jets at 4:25pm ET. 

At the same time, the Denver Broncos meet the Los Angeles Chargers in pursuit of the AFC’s No 1 seed.

The New England Patriots are also in the running for the first seed. They need to beat the Miami Dolphins and hope the Chargers win against Sean Payton’s Broncos. 

The Las Vegas Raiders, meanwhile, host the Kansas City Chiefs at 4:25 ET, where a loss will also mean they are locked in on the No 1 pick of the 2026 NFL Draft. 

It may also be Travis Kelce’s final NFL game, with many expecting the Kansas City Chiefs star to retire once the NFL season ends. 

MORE TO FOLLOW 

Baltimore RavensSan Francisco 49ers

Share or comment on this article:
NFL releases schedule for Week 18 and confirms huge Sunday Night Football showdown

SOURCE PAGE

Coach Eric Sekou Chelle believes the Super Eagles can only get better at the on-gong  Africa Cup of Nations, Morocco 2025, after Saturday’s nervy 3-2 win over Tunisia in Fes.

The Super Eagles  put on an impressive display of attacking prowess with Victor Osimhen opening  the scoring a minute before halftime and captain Wilfred Ndidi and Ademola Lookman added two more after the break. But Tunisia staged a late comeback with goals from defenders Montassar Talbi and Ali Abdi that set up a nervy finish.

Victory on Saturday sealed Super Eagles’ qualification  to the 16th  Round even with one first-round fixture still to play against Uganda  tomorrow.

Smarting from that  hard-fought  win against Tunisia on Saturday, Chelle has the Super Eagles to  learn  how to manage games better while also praising the team’s intensity in the encounter.

 “These are the situations that help a team grow; we must learn how to manage games better until the final whistle,” The Franco Malian coach said . “Our identity is based on intensity, aggression without the ball and speed when we regain possession. For most of the game, the players executed that very well.

 “It is never easy to respond when momentum shifts, but the players stayed united and disciplined. That mentality is very important in tournament football.”

He added:  “We have quality going forward but at this level, small details matter. We must remain focused from the first minute to the last.”

Speaking in the same vein,  Ademola Lookman, who  won the Man-of-the-Match award  following his excellent display  with a goal and  two assists, was proud of the team’s resilience.

He said: “We showed character when the game became difficult. These are the moments that define teams in tournaments like this. We are building strong connections on the pitch. Everyone understands their role, and that makes our play more fluid and dangerous.”

 “The coach gives us belief and clear instructions. When you know exactly what is expected, it becomes easier to express yourself.”

SOURCE PAGE

By JACK BEZANTS, US DEPUTY SPORTS EDITOR

Published: 02:33 GMT, 29 December 2025 | Updated: 03:01 GMT, 29 December 2025

A wild brawl erupted in Sunday night’s NHL game between the Columbus Blue Jackets and New York Islanders, sparked by Mason Marchment tripping 2025 first-round draft pick Matthew Schaefer.

Young Islanders’ star Schaefer went flying through the air before sliding across the ice as the play unfolded, before his teammate Mat Barzal took it upon himself to take revenge.

Barzal slowly skated towards Marchment before brutally slashing him across the leg with his stick, sending the Blue Jays man crumpling down onto the ice.

As Barzal turned away, Marchment’s teammates swarmed Barzal and unleashed a barrage of punches before the fellow Islanders piled in to make it a massive brawl.

The referees were helpless, trying to intervene and stop the punches being thrown but the players took little notice. Eventually, a ruck of players pulled themselves apart after sliding into the wall.

With the game tied at 1-1 in the second period, Barzal was then ejected from the game for taking matters into his own hands and will potentially be fined and suspended for hitting out at Marchment.

A massive brawl erupted in Sunday’s New York Islanders and Columbus Blue Jackets game

The fight was started by Blue Jackets’ Mason Marchment tripped Islanders’ Matthew Schaefer

And when Mat Barzal hit Marchand with his stick, players from both teams fought back

Patrick Roy, the Islanders head coach, refused to criticize Barzal when he spoke to reporters after the game.

‘We’re never going to blame a teammate for going to try and defend a teammate,’ he said. ‘We thoought it was a knee on Schaefer.’ 

For his involvement, Marchment received a two-minute tripping penalty. He had tripped Schaeder earlier in the game, during the first quarter, and got the same punishment.

And the 30-year-old was punished again for the same thing later in the game, this time tripping Islanders winger Simon Holmstrom. 

But Marchment, playing only his third game since his acquisition from the Seattle Kraken, had the last laugh, with his team fighting their way to a surprise 4-2 win over the Islanders. 

Despite their win on Sunday, the Blue Jackets are last in the Eastern Conference’s Metropolitan Division, with a 15-15 record.

The Islanders, meanwhile, are second on 21-14 and three points behind leaders Carolina Hurricanes.

The Islanders meet Chicago Blackhawks next, on Tuesday, while the Blue Jackets play Monday against Ottawa Senators.

Share or comment on this article:
Hockey star attacks rival with his STICK and sparks huge brawl in wild midgame meltdown

SOURCE PAGE