Sunday's Capital One Cup Final is a must win for Chelsea - Quotes from Jose Mourinho

Cheslsea Football club have a date to keep with Tottenham Hotspur in the Capital One Cup final on Sunday and the Blues manager has told his players that losing is not an option.

''It is a final we have to play and a final we have to win,'' he told reporters.

''This is the only moment since I arrived in July 2013 that I don’t think about the future of this club,'' Mourinho added. ''I just think about the moment, I just think about this game.

''We have a final to win on Sunday and nothing else matters.''

Mourinho also expressed his hope, that his team will continue to fight for more trophies in future.

He said: ''Chelsea cannot win everything and cannot win every season,'' he said. “If you want to do that we have to change country to where the competition is not so hard.

''Chelsea, in the last 10 years, won just the League Cup twice but was many times at Wembley and won FA Cups, won Premier Leagues and the European Cup.

''We try to build with this new generation of players and try to make Wembley something normal for us and try to go there year after year.''

Coach of Nigeria U-20 Manu Garba releases 21-man list for African Youth Championship

Flying Eagles’ Head Coach Manu Garba (OON) has released a list of 21 players who will represent the country at the 19th African Youth Championship in Senegal.

Nigeria play host Senegal, Congo-Brazzaville and Cote d’Ivoire in Group A of the tournament scheduled for 8th – 22nd March in the Senegalese cities of Dakar and M’Bour.

Ghana, Mali, South Africa and Zambia play in Group B. All four semi finalists will fly Africa’s flag at the FIFA U-20 World Cup finals in New Zealand, scheduled for 30th May – 20th July this year.

THE FULL LIST

Joshua Enaholo, Musa Muhammed, Mustapha Abdullahi, Akinjide Idowu, Saheed AbdulGaniyu, Izuchukwu Omego, Bernard Bulbwa, Alhassan Ibrahim, Christian Pyagbara, Abdullahi Alfa, Saleh Usman, Ifeanyi Ifeanyi, Samuel Okon, Obinna Nwobodo, Ifeanyi Mathew, Dele Alampasu, Chidera Ezeh, Taiwo Awoniyi, Bello Zaharadeen, Wasiu Jimoh, Olorunleke Ojo

Source:Footballlive.ng

CAF U-17 Championship: Nigeria to play South Africa in semi final

Golden Eaglets of Nigeria will confront South Africa in the semi-finals of the ongoing CAF U-17 Championship in Niamey.

The Amajimbos defeated Cameroon 3-1 on Sunday, in one of the Group B matches to fix a semi final date with the Eaglets.

Emmanuel Amuneke’s boys had booked their place, after a 3-1 win over the Junior Chipolopoloof Zambia on Saturday.

Guinea and Mali also have a date in the second semi final clash on Thursday.

All four teams have already qualified for the 2015 FIFA U-17 World Cup, which will be hosted by Chile later in the year.

Mesut Ozil's thought on Arsenal third position in the Premier League

Although the Gunners are 12points behind league leaders Chelsea, 7points behind Manchester City, Mesut Ozil seems delighted that his Arsenal side are back to the top three.

Arsenal won 2-1 at Crystal Palace on Saturday and Manchester United slip saw the Gunners one point ahead of the Red devils.

Ozil shared his thoughts on instagram: Now we have to concentrate on #Monaco! #bpl#ucl #Arsenal #YaGunnersYa.

One eye on the top spot, one eye on the UCL clash against Monaco this week. 

Mourinho at Wenger again! The Chelsea manager thinks Arsenal should be on top

Mourinho is at it again! The Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho, has taken a swipe at Arsene Wenger, claiming Arsenal should be contesting for the Premier League title.

The Gunners are currently 12 points behind the Blues with 12 matches left and sit in third place. Mourinho stated that with the quality of their squad, they should be among the front runners.

"Arsenal? I don't understand why they are not where we are, with Manchester City, because I like their team. I think they have very good players. Alexis, Welbeck... important players added to an already very good squad. I think they are a team for more.

"At this moment Wenger has a dream job that we would all love to have. He has the stability and has the time to buy and sell and wait for success... and wait, and wait... I think he has the dream job.What he did to get so many titles in a certain period gives him the credibility that he deserves. Obviously he is a fantastic manager but he's in a fantastic position to be successful. When I look at the players, I really think they have to win."

Nigeria, Guinea qualify for FIFA U-17 World Cup Chile 2015

Nigeria and Guinea have booked their place in the FIFA U-17 World Cup Chile 2015 after finishing first and second respectively in Group A of of the CAF U-17 Championship 2015 played in Niger. 

The four semi-finalists from the tournament will represent Africa at the U-17 World Cup, with the two teams from Group B to be determined on Sunday.

The Golden Eaglets, who beat Zambia 3-1 on Saturday, ended the group phase one top with two wins and one draw. Meanwhile, Guinea, despite being beaten by Niger 2-1, finished second in Group A with one win, one draw and one defeat.

With Cameroon unable to finish second in Group B after losing their first two matches, the final two semi-final tickets and subsequent spots up for grabs to Chile 2015 will be decided between Mali, Côte d'Ivoire and South Africa on Sunday.

Source: FIFA.COM

EPL Round up: Manchester City close in on Chelsea after destroying Newcastle, United beaten and Arsenal win away

Chelsea were held to a 1-1 draw by Burnley at home after Jose Mourinho’s men took the lead through a deft Branislav Ivanovic in the first half.

The table toppers then had Nemanja Matic sent off in the second half, before Burnley drew level.

Santi Cazorla and Olivier Giroud scored to see Arsenal to a 2-1 win over Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park.

In other games, Swansea defeated Manchester United 2-1, Victor Moses scored from the spot to see Stoke City defeat Aston Villa 2-1 at Villa Park after coming from behind.

Hull City beat QPR 2-1 in a match which saw Joey Barton sent off and there were no goals between Sunderland and West Bromich Albion.

In the last match of the day, Manchester City destroyed Newcastle United putting five goals past Tim Krul to reduce the gap between them and league leader to five points.

Premier League: Joey Barton tenders apology to QPR Fans after seeing red against Hull City

Joey Barton was sent off for violent conduct as QPR fell to a 2-1 defeat by Hull City in Saturday's Premier League game.

He was dismissed for attempting to hit Tom Huddlestone in a sensitive area but took to social media to apologize to his teammates and traveling fans.

''Young kid making his debut has made a good tackle. Couple of Hull players trying to get him sent off. My job as captain is to protect him, he said on his twitter handle @Joey7Barton. 

''I've tried to prevent Hull's players influencing referee as u can see by me pushing Bruce away.

''My actions towards Huddlestone were certainly not malicious, it was a stupid reaction to being barged but I can appreciate it wasn't right.

''I'm gutted I got sent off. I've let my teammates down today and being someone who puts the team above everything else I'm gutted about that.

''I've apologised to the lads and would like to apologise to all QPR fans who travelled today.

QPR rallied from a goal behind after going one man down, Charlie Austin equalizing with a header six minutes before half-time and then celebrating by limping around in reference to having a move to Hull collapse over a failed medical.

But, just after Rob Green had denied Dame N'Doye with a brilliant save, the January signing got his revenge by beating Green to the resulting corner for the win.

Video footage of how Chelsea fans push man off Paris Metro Park before PSG game

video courtesy of Theguardian.com

Siasia invites Oshobe, Alex Iwobi and 19 others for Gabon tie

Google Image

Bulgaria-based midfielder Oshobe Oladele and Arsenal's Alex Iwobi along with three other foreign-based professionals have been invited by Dream Team coach Samson Siasia ahead of the All African Games qualifier against Gabon on Saturday.

The Dream Team VI will leave Nigeria for Gabon on Wednesday evening via Ethopia Airlines.

Here's the full squad:

Goalkeepers: Daniel Emmanuel, Akande Abiodun

Defenders: Obanor Erhun, Okorom Stanley, Oduduwa Segun, Sani Faisal, Sincere Seth, Atanda Sodiq

Midfielders: Azubuike Okechukwu, Godwin Savior, Tiongoli Tonbara, Saliu Popoola, Oshobe Oladele, Mohammed Usman, Kingsley Sokari

Forwards: Etebo Oghenekaro, Olufemi Ajayi Junior, Peter Onyekachi,‎ Iwobi Alex, Paul Onuachu, Stanley Amuzie

UCL: Bayern held to barren draw, Chelsea secures 1-1 draw at PSG

German champions Bayern Munich were held to a goalless draw in Ukraine Ginta Shakhtar Donetsk in Tuesday's UEFA champions league first leg match.

The Germans despite their passing and possession failed to break the Ukranians and also saw Xabi Alonso sent off in the second off for a bookable offence.

In the othe game on the night, Chelsea were able to grind out a 1-1 draw in Paris against french champions Paris Saint German.

Branislav Ivanovic's header set Chelsea ahead late in the first half while Edison Cavani equalized for the home team.

Kevin-Prince Boateng's Boyhood football dream of playing for and against the biggest clubs fulfilled!

It is the dream of every footballer to hit the highest level of football, Kevin-Prince Boateng is no exception.

The Ghanaian footballer has played for quite a number of clubs and against household names in world football.

He shared this pic along with a comment via instagram on Tuesday ahead of his club's ULC clash on Wednesday:

prince09_Told my brother when I was 10 years old I promise you, I will play with the biggest and play against the biggest!!! My dream came true... Thanks to all my fans aswell!! 👍👍👍 #CL #S04RM #cantwait

Boateng has played for Hertha BSC in Germany, Tottenham Hotspur in England, Borussia Dortmund, Portsmouth, Genoa, and AC Milan.

UEFA Champions League: Kenneth Omeruo's message to Chelsea as they tackle PSG in Paris

French giants Paris Saint German will host Chelsea football club in the first leg of the knock out stage of UEFA Champions League, in Paris on Tuesday night.

On-loan Chelsea defender Kenneth Omeruo is wishing his colleagues at the London club a beautiful result from Paris.

He shared via social medai (Instagram) #chelsea #UTB #champions league #omeruo #TeamKO Good luck today Guys.

The Nigerian defender is currently on-loan at Middlesbrough in the Championship.

International Friendly: Nigeria to play Ghana in a London

Fan of Super Eagles in the diaspora would have an opportunity to watch their team as the Nigerian senior National team will play the Black Stars Ghana in an international friendly game fixed for March 29, 2015 in London.

The Nigeria Football Federation(NFF) secured the friendly game to engage the Super Eagles and to ensure that the FIFA free window is utilized.

Vanguard reports that Initially the plan was to play Brazil on that same day, however, the Selecao will be playing Chile at the Emirates Stadium that same day.

The Super Eagles will first play a friendly game against Bolivia at the Nest of Champions in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State on March 26th.

After the game against the South Americans, the Nigerian contingent will depart for London.

United beat Preston, to face Arsenal in quarter final

Sky Sports: FA Cup Trophy

Manchester United came from a goal down to beat Preston in the fifth round of the FA Cup to qualify for the quarter final.

The Reds have now been drawn against premier league rivals Arsenal while Liverpool will host Blackburn Rover.

Giant-killers Bradford will host Reading while another Premier League tie see Aston Villa travel to West Bromich Albion.

Ties to be played 7 and 8 of March 2015

Sunshine Stars of Akure unveils new foreign Technical Director Paul Hashfort

In its bead at ensuring a rapid talent discovery and making the existing teams more active both at home and at the continental level,the management of the Ondo State Football Agency has unveiled a new technical crew for the state owned clubs.

Our sports correspondent in Akure Isaac Afolabi reports that at the unveiling ceremony in the state commissioner for sports Mr Bekhikeme Idiahri charged the crew to make hard work their watch word and produce results by grooming and identifying talents alongside winning trophies for the state.

Responding the chairman,Ondo state football academy mr Akin Akinbobola called for cooperation among the crew and the management to achieve greater results.

Mr Akinbobola further called for the support of stakeholders in re defining the state owned clubs.
The unveiled crew includes a former British coach Mr paul Hashfart as the technical director of the agency to be assisted by coach Henry Abiodun.

Others include coach keneddy boboye as the head coach of sunshine fc,coach kayode olujoungbe as sunshine queens coach while coach kayode Julius is in charge of rising stars.

Responding after the unveiling mr Paul hashfart promised to use his experienced to transform the state football and achieve the goals layed down which includes grooming talents,winning trophies and returning the state teams to the continental stage

Brown Ideye: All hail Valentine's Player of the Day

It's a season of love all around the world no doubt. One player who recieved all the attention both home and abroad is Brown Ideye after he grabbed a brace to see help West Bromich Albion progress into quarter finals of the English FA Cup.

He's been missing the love and now when he's found his feet again, banging in goals, getting four in three appearances. Why not! Let the love flow.

Ideye is indeed grateful for this times and the much love from his fans.

Asisat Oshoala shares picture from Liverpool Valentine's Day Training

Nigerian international Asisat Oshoala shared on Instagram how she and her teammates went training on ''Lover's day''.

This is work on Valentine's day! Lol.

Nigeria U-17 National Team arrives Niamey for African Championship

Vanguardngr.com: Golden Eaglets

Emmanuel Amunkie tutored Golden Eaglets have arrived Niger, the venue of the CAF U-17 Championship.

Reports have it that the Nigerian cadet team departed Sokoto for Niamey by road on thursday and were received by the country's supporters club in Niger.

The Eaglets kick of their campaign against the host country Niger on Sunday before playing Guine and Zambia in Group A.

Arsenal set to release Alex Iwobi on one condition

Arsenal football club have indicated that their U-21 captain Alex Iwobi will honour Nigeria's invitation for international duty with the Olympic Team as long as the needful is done.

Coach Samson Siasia included the Gunners youngster in his team list to help prosecute the All Africa Games encounter against Gabon next week.

''We are expecting correspondence from the Nigerian FA, and it’s also down to Alex Iwobi if he wants to play in that fixture,'' an Arsenal spokesman, Andrew Mancha, told SL10.ng.

''He would be released for the game if it goes through the proper channels.''

Iwobi has been on the books of Arsenal for the past ten years, and has represented England at Under 16 and Under 17 level.

OPINION: Why should NFF not retain Stephen Keshi as Coach of the Nigeria National Team

Nigerians home and abroad await the appointment of a new coach for the senior national team, the Super Eagles.

Recent reports have it that the NFF technial committee members are currently deliberating on filling the vacant position. chairman of the technical committee of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Chief Anynsi Agwu says his committee had passed its recommendations on the reappointment of Stephen Keshi to the executive committee of the federation.

''We deliberated on Keshi’s contract renewal and have made our recommendations to the NFF board,'' Felix Anyasi-Agwu, chairman of the NFF technical committee, said after their meeting in Abuja on Tuesday.

Did you just say Keshi again! Yes Stephen Okechukwu Keshi. Soon and very soon this announcement will be made and Nigerians will know who will take the Eagles to the next level.

Although we also hear that his the new deal will contain clauses that will be make him answerable to the technical committee. Also, the former Mali and Togo boss will work with a backroom staff picked by the NFF.

Coach Keshi's contract lapsed after the Brazil 2014 FIFA World Cup and was asked to return to lead the team to the recently concluded African Cup of Nations won by Cote d'voire in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea. You know the rest. We simply did not qualify to play in that tournament and the 'ifs' began to fill the papers. If only Nigeria had qualified, If only, if only.

From his football playing days to his present status as a coach, ''the big boss'' as coach keshi is fondly called, has experienced all the ironies of the round leather game applauds, adoration, successes, controversies and lately failure. 

Many are quick to accuse him of being money conscious, power drunk, arrogant, tactically incompetent and placing mediocrity over merits.

Here's the thing. What exactly is Keshi not getting right aside the fact that he failed to lead the team to Malabo? Or could it be said that Nigerians just want him out going by the usual hiring and firing? This same Coach won the nations cup in 2013, led the team to Confederation Cup in Brazil, qualified Nigeria to play in the world cup where he made the knock-out stages.

Let's just say the name Stephen Keshi means different things to different people in this football loving nation called Nigeria. What then do you think about his reported return?

Hazard happy to extend his contract with Chelsea

Eden Hazard has signed a new five-and-a-half year contract with the Chelsea Football Club.

The Belgian has been in fine form this season and already has 13 goals in 36 appearances, as the Blues continue to push for glory this season.

''I am very happy to sign a new contract with Chelsea,'' Hazard told the club’s official website. 

''Since I came here in 2012 I have always felt good and the club has been very supportive to me.

''The manager has helped me improve a lot, the fans have been fantastic and I have an amazing understanding with my team-mates.

''I always try to give pleasure to the supporters with my style of play and it is nice to know they appreciate my work.

''I hope we can repay that support by winning lots of trophies, beginning with the Capital One Cup at Wembley, and after that, we can push hard towards the end of the season.''

Imoh Ezekiel, Arsenal Youngster Iwobi and seven other foreign pros get Dream Team call up

Al-Arabi of Qatar striker Imoh Ezekiel and other eight foreign-based professionals within the age bracket have been invited by Coach of the Dream Team Samson Siasia to help prosecute the all important CAF U-23 Championship qualifier against Gabon.

The Coach stressed the importance of the Gabon fixture and insisted every member of the 18 man-team to Libreville must earn their place as there will be no free ride for any of the players and that includes the Foreign based.

''For now we are expected to go to Gabon with 18 players, so only the best will make this team, there will be no automatic shirt for any body, as both the home based and their foreign counterparts will have to battle for the 18 slots'' Said Siasia as quoting footballlive.ng

FIFA Ranking: Nigeria move up, AFCON host takes huge leap

Despite not participating at the recently concluded African Cup of Nations, Nigeria moved up one place (42nd) in the latest FIFA rankings of Men’s national football teams.

The Eagles' last competitive game was the 2-2 draw against the Bafana Bafana of South Africa in November.

Algeria however maintain top spot in Africa despite failing at the quarter-finals of the AFCON, while AFCON Champions, Côte d'voire are 2nd.

Here's a summary according to FIFA.COM

Leader	Germany (unchanged)
Moves into top ten	none
Moves out of top ten	none
Matches played in total	76
Most matches played	Côte d’Ivoire, Congo DR (7 games each)
Biggest move by points	Equatorial Guinea (up 370 points)
Biggest move by ranks	Equatorial Guinea (up 69 ranks)
Biggest drop by points	Libya (down 156 points)
Biggest drop by ranks	Libya (down 35 ranks)

Morocco Football Association says NO to Caf sanctions

Morocco has maintained that the sanctions imposed on them by the Confederation of African Football (Caf) for not hosting the 2015 African Cup of Nations is unacceptable. 

Caf banned Morocco from the next two Nations Cups, while fining its football federation US$1m (£650,000) and claiming 8m euros (£5.9m) in damages.

According to report on BBC, The Royal Federation of Moroccan Football (FRMF) said it "rejects all of these sports and financial sanctions".

It added that it believes there is "no regulatory basis" for the punishments.

The FMRF said on its website: "The executive committee is said to be greatly surprised by the decisions taken by Caf.

"They do not correspond in any way to the conclusions of the first meeting in Cairo with the president of Caf."

After that January meeting with Caf president Issa Hayatou, the president of the Royal Federation of Moroccan Football, Faouzi Lakjaa, said the penalty would only be financial.

The FRMF added that it would "take all necessary measures to uphold the rights and interests of Moroccan football and provisions".

Ghana President John Mahama rewards Player for AFCON feat

Google Image: Ghana Afcon 20015

President John Mahama of Ghana has announced a US$ 25, 000 (N4.3m) for each member of the Black Stars for finishing runners-up at the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations in Equatorial Guinea.

The Black Stars were edged by Ivory Coast winning 9-8 on penalties in Sunday’s final played in Bata but their effort is being rewarded. (Vanguard report)

''And for achieving that feat, we are grateful to the team and this is a team for the future and the sky we know will be the limit,'' Mahama confirmed after meeting with the players at the Flagstaff House in Accra on Tuesday.

''Government is pleased to announce that we are giving each one of you an amount of US$25,000 for going that far.''

Ghana players pocketed US$ 50,000 each for reaching the final of the Nations Cup.

''This smile is ONLY for those that always Belive and support me''- Says Balotelli after his goal secured home victory for Liverpool over Tottenham

Liverpool striker Mario Balotelli found the back of the net with about seven minutes to the end of the match against Tottenham on Tuesday night.

The match was at 2-2 draw before the Italian forward tapped in a pass from Adam Lallana to see to secure maximum three points for Liverpool in a Barclays Premier League game.

For Liverpool, the victory sends them to within a point of their opponents and just three off third placed Southampton.

The goal-shy striker said on social media after the match along with this picture, ''Great game guys!!! This smile is ONLY for those that always Believe and support me.

''Thank you . ❤️ and Forza Liverpool. But now head down and keep working hard. Tonight is past.''

He didn't smile or jubilate after the goal but he did on his way home.

Vote not fight! Super Eagles Player Onazi urges Nigerians towards Elections

Nigeria international Ogenyi Onazi has urged fellow Nigerians to shun violence in the forthcoming General elections in the country.

The SS Lazio midfielder also campaigns that the citizens endeavor to perform their civic rights in electing their choice of candidate in the poll.

He share his message via instgram on Tuesday with comment: ''Election loading............. Vote for the right candidate no violence. #ilovemycountrynigeria# Nigerians don't be brain washed.''

His post drew the attention of some of his fellow Super Eagles like Vincent Enyeama. See for yourself @onaziogenyi 

Ivory Coast Footballer Gervinho shares a Selfie with the President

All in the spirit of celebration as it can be recalled that the Ivorians edged their Ghanaian counterparts  in the final to win Africa's most glamorous tournament, the Africa Cup of Nations.

Gervinho shared this pic on his Instagram @gervinhofficial along with comment: Selfie Présidentielle #team225 #MrPresident

The picture was taken when the victorious team were being treated to a heroes welcome led by number one citizen of the West African country, Alassane Dramane Ouattara.

Nigerian Football League clubs get February 20 deadline date for players registration

The League Management Company (LMC) has announced a registration deadline of February 20 for clubs to submit their licensing documents for the 2014/15 Glo Premier League season which will commence on March 7. The documents include proof of no debts carried over, financial guarantee and medical passport of players.

Salihu Abubakar, the LMC Chief Operating Officer (COO) announced this and said in a statement released on the organization's website that the clubs have been put on notice that mid-week fixtures will hold to accommodate the socio-political developments in the country.

''As part of the registration process for the new season, Clubs are to mandatorily provide a quarterly Financial Performance Guarantee of N50m which is a condition for licensing to participate in the league. Clubs that are in a position to provide a one-off Performance Guarantee of N200m is also encouraged to do so'', Abubakar stated. Clubs must provide the Financial Performance Guarantee on or before March 5, the LMC have stated.

Read the full statement 

FIFA U-20 Mens World Cup Draws held, See where Flying Eagles of Nigeria will compete if they qualify

Image: Fifa.com

Four African teams will have to battle their way through to participate in the forthcoming FIFA U-20 World Cup, New Zealand 2015 which draw has taken place in Auckland, mapping out the group-stage challenge for each of the 24 teams involved.

The Flying Eagles of Nigeria hopes to have a good African Youth Championship U-20 tournament to make it to Auckland later this year.
 

It could be recalled that the Nigeria U-20 men national team recently won the Super Six, an invitational tournament organized by the League Management Company for the top four teams in the league which also had the National U-23 men team as participants.

According to FIFA.COM the Championship will be held between 30 May and 20 June in seven cities across the country's north and south islands.

Pictures from Cristiano Ronaldo's Birthday Party after Atletico Madrid humiliation

Image: khaleejtimes.com

Cristiano Ronaldo's Agent Mendes believes that the Portuguese should not be condemned for going ahead with his birthday celebration despite the heavy defeat to Atletico Madrid on Saturday.

Reports have it that captains of the club Iker Casillas and Sergio Ramos didn't buy the idea of celebrating after such a debacle but the player's agent sees from another angle.

"He was very angry," Jorge Mendes told Spanish radio station Cadena Ser as reported by ESPN "Any player that loses a game and more so Ronaldo, who is a great professional, who continues to be the best professional in the world would be angry.

"The fact is that his birthday party had been organised more than a month ago and he had family coming from abroad. He didn't want to cancel out of respect for the people that came.

"What is inadmissible is that somebody takes advantage of a private affair to release a video. Ronaldo was devastated after the defeat and people spent two hours trying to cheer him up."

''Proud of my original country'' says Balotelli as he reacts to Ghana's AFCON loss

Italy and Liverpool striker Mario Balotelli has joined a host of others who have reacted to Africa Cuo of Nations final match which produced Ivory Coast as eventual winners over Ghana on Sunday.

The Black Stars of Ghana lost 8-9 to the Elephants of Cote d'voire after a scoreless draw in normal play time.

Balotelli share the Ghana flag on his instagram along with this comment ''Proud of my original country.. Unlucky but you guys gave everything and deserve a win. But football sometimes is a b**** ! Head up. All your people are proud of you.''

His parents are of Ghanaian origin and he acknowledges the fact.

Have you seen Didier Drogba's reaction after Ivory Coast's last penalty? Watch Video

Ivory Coast beat Ghana 9-8 on penalties to end their 23-years the African title drought.

Video courtesy: Youtube

UK Connect: Asisat Oshoala and Omeruo spend weekend together

African footballer of the year Asisat Oshoala spent the weekend with Super Eagles and Middlesborough defender Kenneth Omeruo.

The Super Falcons player who recently signed for Liverpool share this pic on Social media via Twitter @asisato1 along with comment ''A weekend well spent with my young daddy KEN but na only ZEUS(dog) wan pursue me......had fun with good food hahahahahah #BORO #LFC''

Omeruo on the other hand dropped the same picture last on Sunday on his instagram with a congratulatory message to the female African most promising talent, ''Congrats on your move to Liverpool Female Team @superzeee and African player of the year. More to come dear'', - he said.

I'm not suggesting anything but, this UK Connection is good.

Ideye scores as West Brom secure draw at Burnley

Instagram/@ideyebrown

Nigerian forward Brown scored West Bromich Albion's second goal to level up at Burnley in a premier league battle on Sunday afternoon.

The former Dynamo Kiev striker had before now been under pressure and was reported to have been linked with a move to a Qatari club, Al Gharafa.

Home team Burnley were leading 2-0 before half time but West Brom rallied back with Brunt and Ideye scoring to keep the sides at per.

The Nigerian shared on social media (Instagram) ''Difficult game today thank God we came back strong,great job from all the lads👏 #hardworkcontinue #GreatGod''

Ivory Coast edge Ghana on penalties to win Afcon 2015

Ivory Coast defeated Ghana 9-8 on penalties to win the 2015 African Cup of Nations in Equatorial Guinea.

After 120 minutes of scoreless draw, the match was sent into penalty shoot-out which saw Harvey Renard tutored side finish as winners.

The Elephants however ended their 23-years African title drought.

EPL: Arsenal beaten! City slips! Chelsea leads

Looked like all was going good for the Gunners up until they played Tottenham Hotsupur in a premier league game on Saturday.

The Gunners had taken the lead through injury-returnee Mesut Ozil in the early minutes of the match to secure a first half win but a more rejuvenated Spurs side made amends as in-form Harry Kane grabbed a double to beat Arsene Wenger's men.

Yaya Toure's absence remained obvious as Manchester City struggled to level up in the dying minutes against Hull City at the Etihad stadium.

Visiting Hull City took the lead in the second half but could not hold on to finish after James Milner helped his side by scoring a superb free kick to end the game 1-1.

The leading horse Chelsea establish a seven point lead after their 2-1 victory at Aston Villa. 

DR Congo Beat AFCON 2015 host, claim third spot

Democratic Republic of Conga beat Equatorial Guinea to clinch third place of Acon 2015 in Malabo.

The match ended in a goalless draw after 90' minutes and was sent into penalties which saw Congo emerged winners 4-2 over the host.

Equatorial Guinea were beaten by the Black stars of Ghana while DR Congo could not pass the Elephants of Cote d'voire in the semi final.

Ghana will however tackle Cote d'voire on Sunday evening in an epic battle to see who succeeds Nigeria. 

Ramos to miss Madrid derby, ruled out for five weeks

Real Madrid will this weekend without centre-back Sergio Ramos who faces five weeks on the sidelines with a torn hamstring.

The Galaticos will play Attletico Madrid in a derby this Saturday at the Vicente Calderón.

He picked up a knock in the early stages of their match against Sevilla at the Santiago Bernabeu and has undergone a series of tests and Madrid have now confirmed the centre-back faces a spell on the sidelines due to a torn hamstring.

"Following tests carried out on Sergio Ramos by the Real Madrid medical service at the Sanitas La Moraleja Hospital, the player has been diagnosed with a torn hamstring in his left leg. His progress will be monitored," a statement on the club's official website reads.

The Spanish international has been a rock for the Real Madrid defense  and will be a blow for the side in the coming days.

CAF Sanctions Equatorial Guinea over fans trouble

Host of on-going African Cup of Nations Equatorial Guinea have been fined following the crowd troubles that marred the country's semi-final defeat to Ghana on Thursday evening in Malabo.

After 82' into the match, the home crowd forced the visiting fans off the stands which saw the match halted.

According to the African football body in a statement on it's website on Friday afternoon, The hosts will cover the treatment costs of all of those injured at the fixture, while the country's football federation has been fined $100,000 for "aggressive behaviour" and being repeat offenders.

Equatorial Guinea have also been ordered to play a match behind closed doors, although this is suspended for the third-place play-off and will only come into effect in the event of a repeat occurrence on Saturday.

Google Image: Equatorial Guinea Crowd 

The federation has already had to pay a $5,000 for the behaviour of the country's fans in the quarter-final match between Tunisia and Equatorial Guinea.

Wenger defends Wilshere, says he is not a smoker

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has taken to the defense of Jack Wilshere on the recently reported smoking incident.

The England midfielder was pictured holding a Shisha pipe in a night club in London just months after he was caught smoking at a pool party during the summer holidays.

According to reports on Talksport, "But I observe him well and he behaves in a very professional way. It's down to him to master his life. He had the day off the next day and he went out to watch the Superbowl, -said Wenger.

"When he's here he has to follow the rules that we dictate here, when he's out of his job it's his own responsibility to behave like he wants to behave.

"I believe he works hard, he practices well, he's ahead of schedule in his training, he's two weeks ahead, and you don't do that if you are not serious.He is first in, last out, and he works very hard to get there. I am not worried at all about that.

"You need sometimes to relieve the pressure a bit. I think today it's much more difficult because everywhere you go people make photos and a photo shows one second of your life.

"It doesn't define who you are. I believe you have to take that with a distance as well. I remember when I was in Brazil, I have been seen with some photos by people I didn't even know were around me so you have to be very careful about that. "

Ghana whip AFCON Host Equatorial Guinea, to play Ivory Coast in Final

Black Stars of Ghana have made it to the final of the Africa Cup of Nations after beating Equatorial Guinea 3-0 in the semi final on Thursday night.

The host were behind before the stoke of half time after conceding a penalty which was calmly slotted in by Jordan Ayew and another goal inside five minutes by Mubarak Wakaso.

Andre Ayew's goal was the big blow that hit the Equatorial Guinean fans as the Ghanaian fans were forced off the stands which saw the match halted for several minutes.

After the show of shame by the fans of the host country, match officials decided to throw the game into three minutes added time to end the match.

Ghana will now face Ivory Coast in the final on Sunday.

Asisat Oshoala, Nkwocha have high hopes for Canada 2015 FIFA World Cup

Super Falcons player Asisat Oshoala and Perpetual Nkwocha are optimistic that Nigeria will do well in the forthcoming FIFA Women's World Cup.

The 20-year old forward who recently signed for Liverpool is confident that the country will perform better than they have in previous tournament. 

''I am confident that this year we will see Nigeria doing well. We have the players and many of them have already played together at youth level'' - she saidn in an interview with FIFA.COM.

Veteran Super Falcon striker Perpetual Nkwocha also shares similar view ''We have huge number of talents at the youth level, but we need to properly harness them as they graduate to the senior team,''

''But with good preparation surely our team will excel. We have the players and experience to do well in Canada.''

Asisat Oshoala is likely to lead Nigeria's attack along with Perpetual if invited.

See how fans are reacting to Wilshere Shisha Picture

Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere was seen in the night club holding Shisha pipe and this Picture has gone viral Twitter.

It is the third time he would be spotted with this habit.

Anothe player of the club Wojciech Szczesny was fined £20,000 and dropped for smoking in the showers at Southampton.

From the tweet below, this fans thinks Wilshere should be left alone!

Liverpool manager believes Philippe Coutinho will become world-class like Suarez

Philippe Coutinho celebrated his contract-extension with a goal against Bolton on Wednesday ensuring that the Reds qualify for the fifth round of FA Cup.

The young Brazilian is being appreciated for his performance in recent times and has been labelled as the new Luis Suarez of the club.

''You just pay money to watch that kid,'' Rogers told reporters about the Brazilian.

''Watch how he plays football. He can be a great role model for young British players who, for many years, may have been discarded because they didn’t have the stature. He’ll become world-class in the next few years.

''With Luis Suarez, he was at a level when he played in this team, and he grew with the model before getting into that world-class bracket.

Yaya Toure Leads Ivory Coast to Nations Cup Final

African Footballer of the Year, Yaya Toure was among the scorers as the Elephants of Cote d'voire defeated DR Congo to land in the final of the on-going Africa Cup of nations.

Captain Yaya Toure put the Elephants in front, with a long-range strike, but Dieumerci Mbokani leveled from the spot after Eric Bailly was adjudged to have handled in the area.

Gervinho restored the lead while Wilfried Konan grabbed the third goal to seal the victory.

The Ivorian now have a chance of lifting the Africa cup of nations since 1992 but will have to battle the winner of the second semi final game to be played on Thursday evening between Ghana and host Equatorial Guinea.

Diafra Sakho: Bristol City unhappy with FIFA's decision

Bristol City have released a statement over the £71,000 FIFA fine to West Ham for fielding Diafra Sakho in their FA Cup fourth-round tie.

West Ham claimed Sakho, who was issued with a reprimand, could not play for Senegal due to a back injury but that he had recovered in time to play in their FA Cup fourth round match at Bristol City on January 25 in which he scored in a 1-0 win.

Google Image: Diafra Sakho in action for West Ham

Soccer's world governing body announced the sanctions in a statement on Wednesday but the League one club feels disappointed.

The statement on the club's website reads: "Bristol City FC notes FIFA’s decision with regards to the Disciplinary Committee’s case against West Ham United and their player Diafra Sakho.

"The club is disappointed with the penalty handed down by the FIFA Disciplinary Committee and is considering its options.

"The club will be making no further comment at this time."

Pictures of the New AC Milan Stadium Plan released

Italian club AC Milan has unveiled tentative plans for a new 48,000-seat stadium with a retractable roof to open for the 2018-19 season.

Report on Skysports The club posted a video featuring a model of the two-tier arena to be built next to the club's recently opened headquarters in the Portell-Fiera area of the city.

This project has been estimated at 300 million to 320 million euros.

Milan currently shares the city-run 80,000-seat San Siro Stadium with rival Inter Milan.

The new stadium will be run by Milan, and it will be surrounded by a hotel, parking areas, and restaurants.

Architect Emilio Faroldi says the stadium plan was inspired by Arsenal's Emirates Stadium in London, plus arenas in Basel and Neuchatel, Switzerland, and Bilbao, Spain.

Final approval is expected in March.