Nigeria General Sport news

• World Cup legend arrested

  12-06-2026 02:21 via thesun.ng
  
  RICARDO ROCHA has reportedly been arrested in a dramatic twist ahead of travelling to the USA for the World Cup.
  The Brazilian World Cup winner was due in the tournament host nation to work as a pundit covering the football action.
  Rocha, 63, was part of the iconic Brazil team that lifted the trophy in 1994 – the last time it was hosted in the USA.
  This year’s edition is also being co-hosted by Canada and Mexico.
  Local reports have claimed that the defensive rock was arrested on Wedn
  
  Read more

• Shakira, Burna Boy light up opening ceremony

  12-06-2026 02:26 via thesun.ng
  
  The FIFA World Cup 2026 is officially underway as Shakira and Burna Boy lit up the stage at the iconic Estadio Azteca ahead of this edition’s opener between co-hosts Mexico and South Africa.
  Shakira took center stage last night at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, delivering a high-energy performance to officially launch the FIFA World Cup 2026.
   
   
  The Colombian icon headlined the opening ceremony ahead of the tournament’s first match between co-hosts Mexico and South Africa.
  
  Read more

• Somali referee banned by US to officiate UEFA Super Cup

  12-06-2026 02:23 via thesun.ng
  
  Somali referee Omar Artan waves to supporters while draped in the Somali flag as he is welcomed after returning to Mogadishu after being denied entry to the United States for the World Cup
  Somali referee Omar Artan, who was denied entry to the United States for the World Cup, was on Thursday named to officiate UEFA’s Super Cup, European football’s governing body announced.
  UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin poured praise on the Somali referee in a statement released a few hours before
  
  Read more

• Mexico jail awaits England, Scotland fans, Foreign Office tells supporters

  12-06-2026 02:22 via thesun.ng
  
  England and Scotland fans are being warned of the risk of ending up in jail in Mexico during the World Cup.
  The Foreign Office has issued guidance that supporters could be arrested and put in “short-term detention” if they are caught drink driving.
  It is also warning fans that they face arrest or a £200 fine for drinking in public including outside restaurants and stadiums in Mexico.
  The Government has issued similar guidance over drinking in America, where holding a pint or op
  
  Read more

• Advertisement

• Tit bits…Tit bits… Tit bits

  12-06-2026 02:20 via thesun.ng
  
  • Swiss footballer Embolo’s visa was put under review and he was only able to join his team days later.
  • Iraqi national team player Aymen Hussein was held for questioning for nearly 7 hours upon entering the United States.
  • The Iranian national team spent days dealing with visa procedures at the U.S. Consulate in Türkiye. The U.S. only allowed them entry on match days. Fifteen members of the delegation were denied visas.
  • Omar Abdulkadir Artan, named CAF’s
  
  Read more

• ‘Bellingham must start over Rogers’

  12-06-2026 02:18 via thesun.ng
  
  IT is obvious Thomas Tuchel has some big dilemmas in key positions.There’s the argument about who should play in the number ten role, Jude Bellingham or Morgan Rogers.
  And there’s the debate about the left side between Anthony Gordon and Marcus Rashford.
  For me Jude just has the edge at the moment and that’s no detriment to Morgan. I played with Morgan when he was on the way up at Manchester City and he went on loan to the likes of Blackpool.
  He really put in the work and it sp
  
  Read more

• USA vs Paraguay: Host to unleash Pulisic, Balogun on Paraguay

  12-06-2026 02:17 via thesun.ng
  
  Commencing their Group D campaign at World Cup 2026, the USA and Paraguay will look to make a positive start when they meet in Los Angeles today.
  In a group also featuring Australia and Turkey, both the co-hosts and their South American counterparts know only a top-two finish will guarantee progress to the knockout phase.
  One of three nations co-hosting this summer’s World Cup, the United States will join neighbours Mexico and Canada in hoping to make the most of home advantage.
  Mauricio P
  
  Read more

• Why Ronaldo was subbed against Super Eagles –Martinez

  12-06-2026 02:14 via thesun.ng
  
  Portugal head coach Roberto Martinez has revealed that Cristiano Ronaldo was substituted early in the second half in the 2-1 win over Nigeria as part of a pre-arranged fitness plan for the veteran forward.
  The former Manchester United forward endured a frustrating outing against Nigeria, squandering some scoring opportunities before being replaced in the second half by Gonçalo Ramos.
  Speaking at the post match press conference, Martinez explained that the players had predetermined playing
  
  Read more

• Advertisement

• Footballer slumps, dies during training in Jos

  12-06-2026 02:12 via thesun.ng
  
  From Jude Owuamanam, Jos
  Tragedy struck in Jos on Monday evening when a footballer, Salisu Muhammed, slumped during a training session at the Massalacin Edi Football Field in Alikazaure community of Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State.
  The player was said to have been pronounced dead at a hospital where he was rushed to.
  The incident, which brought the training session to an abrupt end, threw both players and spectators into mourning.
  Muhammed, a resident of Anguwan Rogo community,
  
  Read more

• Okunowo, others head for Surulere as Victor Ikpeba Football Challenge ends Friday

  12-06-2026 01:58 via thesun.ng
  
  Former Barcelona star, Gbenga Okunowo, is leading other ex-footballers, current footballers and other celebrities to Fujah Street in Surulere as the Victor Ikpeba 5-A-Side Football Challenge wraps up on Friday, June 12, for the Lagos 2026 edition.
  The stage is set for the finals of the grassroots competition with a cash prize of N1 million.
  Like PSG, Achievers FC players have trained so hard to retain the title they won in the 2025 edition. They set off the competition against Gantos FC, Big Joh
  
  Read more

• Gov.Mba urged to honour promises to Rangers’ 2023/2024 title-winning squad

  12-06-2026 01:57 via thesun.ng
  
  The people of Enugu State, football supporters, and stakeholders in Nigerian sports are calling on Governor Peter Mbah to fulfill the promises made to the 2023/2024 Enugu Rangers International FC squad, the team that proudly delivered the club’s historic eighth Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) title.
  The triumph of the 2023/2024 season was a landmark achievement for Rangers and a moment of immense pride for Enugu State. Following the victory, Governor Peter Mbah publicly pledged a re
  
  Read more

• Nigerian MMA fighters ready to shine in PFL 2

  12-06-2026 01:54 via thesun.ng
  
  By Joe Apu
  Nigerian mixed martial arts fighters headlined by Wasi Adeshina have expressed confidence and excitement ahead of their upcoming bouts in the Professional Fighters League 2 billed for Saturday, describing the event as a major opportunity to showcase their talents and represent both Nigeria and Africa on the global stage.
  One of the fighters, Juliet Ukah, a Nigerian Police athlete, said she was delighted to be part of the promotion and proud to fly the continent’s flag as a femal
  
  Read more

• 2026 W/Cup: It Could Easily Have Been 3-0 — Mexico Coach Reacts To Win Against South Africa

  12-06-2026 01:39 via completesports.com
  
  Mexico head coach Javier Aguirre has said his side could have beaten South Africa by as high as 3-0, in their 2026 FIFA World Cup opener on Thursday. Mexico got the 2026 World Cup underway by comfortably beating South Africa 2-0, in a match that saw three players sent off. Julian Quinones scored the opening [...]
  The post 2026 W/Cup: It Could Easily Have Been 3-0 — Mexico Coach Reacts To Win Against South Africa appeared first on Complete Sports.
  
  Read more

• 2026 World Cup: Broos Blames South Africa’s Poor Tactical Composure For Loss Against Mexico

  12-06-2026 00:29 via completesports.com
  
  South Africa head coach Hugo Broos has blamed his squad’s poor tactical composure and costly individual errors for the team’s 2-0 loss against Mexico in the opening game of the 2026 World Cup. Recall that the hosts signalled their intentions early, dominating possession and pushing the visitors deep into their own half. Their bright start [...]
  The post 2026 World Cup: Broos Blames South Africa’s Poor Tactical Composure For Loss Against Mexico appeared first on Complete Sports.
  
  Read more

• World Cup 2026: Quiñones Elated To Help Mexico Beat South Africa In Opener

  12-06-2026 00:13 via completesports.com
  Julian Quiñones has described his maiden FIFA World Cup goal as a special achievement that he will cherish for many years to come, Completesports.com reports. Quiñones scored the curtain raiser as the co-hosts defeated South Africa 2-0 in the opening match of the FIFA World Cup 2026. Erik Lira won possession from Sphephelo Sithole before [...]
  The post World Cup 2026: Quiñones Elated To Help Mexico Beat South Africa In Opener appeared first on Complete Sports.
  
  Read more

• South Africa’s Winless Streak In World Cup Opening Games Continues After Mexico Defeat

  11-06-2026 23:38 via completesports.com
  
  Bafana Bafana suffered a 2-0 defeat to Mexico in their opening match after playing much of the second half with 10 men before finishing the contest with nine, The South African reports. The defeat means Bafana Bafana are yet to win any of their four opening matches at the World Cup (They also lost 3-0 [...]
  The post South Africa’s Winless Streak In World Cup Opening Games Continues After Mexico Defeat appeared first on Complete Sports.
  
  Read more

• Leaving Atletico Madrid Was The Biggest Mistake Of My Career –Morata

  11-06-2026 23:31 via completesports.com
  
  Former Chelsea striker Álvaro Morata has disclosed that leaving Atlético Madrid was the biggest mistake of his career. The Spanish striker, who went on to join AC Milan and later Galatasaray, confessed that he would gladly trade all the major trophies he has won for just one title with Atlético. Read Also:OFFICIAL: Mourinho Returns As [...]
  The post Leaving Atletico Madrid Was The Biggest Mistake Of My Career–Morata appeared first on Complete Sports.
  
  Read more

• Mexico begin World Cup campaign with emphatic win over South Africa

  11-06-2026 23:21 via thesun.ng
  
  Mexico opened the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a convincing 2-0 victory over South Africa in a fiery Group A clash that produced three red cards and two well-taken goals before a packed crowd at the Mexico City Stadium on Thursday.
  The hosts made the perfect start when Julián Quiñones struck in the ninth minute from Érik Lira’s assist.
  The early goal settled Mexico, who controlled possession and dictated the pace of the match for much of the evening.
  South Africa’s h
  
  Read more

• Real Madrid officially confirm Mourinho’s appointment on three-year deal

  11-06-2026 22:34 via thesun.ng
  
  Real Madrid on Thursday officially confirmed the appointment of Portuguese tactician, Jose Mourinho as the head coach of the club’s senior men’s team.
  The confirmation was contained in a terse statement shared on Thursday.
  According to the statement, Mourinho will lead the team for the next three seasons, until June 30, 2029.
  The statement reads, “The Board of Directors of Real Madrid C.F., meeting today, Thursday, June 11, and presided over by Florentino Pérez, has agre
  
  Read more

• Mourinho named Real Madrid coach on three-year deal

  11-06-2026 21:01 via vanguardngr.com
  Real Madrid appointed Jose Mourinho as their coach on Thursday on a three-year deal, with the Portuguese veteran making a sensational return to the Spanish capital after 13 years away.The 63-year-old replaces Alvaro Arbeloa after Madrid finished a second consecutive season without a major trophy, falling behind domestic rivals Barcelona.“(Real Madrid have) agreed to appoint Jose Mourinho as the first team’s head coach for the next three seasons, until June 30, 2029,” said the
  
  Read more

• OFFICIAL: Mourinho Returns As Real Madrid Head Coach

  11-06-2026 20:47 via completesports.com
  
  Real Madrid have confirmed the appointment of José Mourinho for a second spell as the club’s coach after ratifying the departure of Álvaro Arbeloa. Madrid disclosed the return in a statement on their website on Thursday. “The Board of Directors of Real Madrid C.F., meeting today, Thursday, June 11, and presided over by Florentino Pérez, [...]
  The post OFFICIAL: Mourinho Returns As Real Madrid Head Coach appeared first on Complete Sports.
  
  Read more

• Mexico Vs South Africa Live Blogging – 2026 FIFA World Cup (Matchday 1; Group A)

  11-06-2026 20:30 via completesports.com
  
  Completesports.com’s Live Blogging of 2026 FIFA World Cup Group A matchday 1 clash between El Tri of Mexico and the Bafana Bafana of South Africa at Estadio Azteca, Coyoacan, Mexico City.
  The post Mexico Vs South Africa Live Blogging – 2026 FIFA World Cup (Matchday 1; Group A) appeared first on Complete Sports.
  
  Read more

• Man City’s £120m bid for Elliot Anderson rejected by Nottingham Forest

  11-06-2026 20:29 via vanguardngr.com
  By Adegboyega AdeleyeManchester City have suffered a setback in their pursuit of Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson after seeing an improved offer worth £120 million rejected.According to the BBC, City submitted a second bid for the England international worth an initial £106 million plus performance-related add-ons, but Nottingham Forest turned down the proposal.Pep Guardiola’s side have intensified efforts to strengthen their midfield following the departure of Ber
  
  Read more

• Rangers Line Up Move For Super Eagles Defender

  11-06-2026 19:34 via completesports.com
  
  Rangers are interested in Blackburn Rovers defender Ryan Alebiosu, Completesports.com reports. The Light Blues are in the market for a new right-back following James Tavernier’s departure from the club at the end of last season. Alebiosu Big Performance For Blackburn Rovers Alebiosu impressed for Sky Bet Championship side Blackburn Rovers last season after joining the [...]
  The post Rangers Line Up Move For Super Eagles Defender appeared first on Complete Sports.
  
  Read more

• Every World Cup Match Is So Important –Son Speaks Ahead South Korea Vs Czech

  11-06-2026 17:45 via completesports.com
  
  South Korean captain Son Heung-min has disclosed that every World Cup match is so important that the team will be willing to stake their lives on it. Recall that South Korea will battle the Czech Republic in the opening fixture of Group A on Saturday. Read Also:2026 World Cup: ‘Nigeria Will Be A Big Miss’ [...]
  The post Every World Cup Match Is So Important–Son Speaks Ahead South Korea Vs Czech appeared first on Complete Sports.
  
  Read more

• FIFA rankings: Super Eagles retain 26th spot after June international window

  11-06-2026 17:27 via vanguardngr.com
  By Adegboyega AdeleyeThe Super Eagles of Nigeria have retained 26th position in the latest FIFA World Rankings released on Thursday following an encouraging June international window under head coach Eric Chelle.The three-time African champions remain the third-highest ranked team in Africa despite a mixed run of results that included victories over Zimbabwe and Jamaica, a draw against Poland and a narrow defeat to Portugal.Nigeria impressed at the Unity Cup in London, defeating Zimbabwe 2-0 be
  
  Read more

• 2026 World Cup: Weather Will Affect England’s Performances –Heskey

  11-06-2026 17:23 via completesports.com
  
  Liverpool legend Emile Heskey has voiced concerns that the severe weather conditions and extreme heat across the United States could impact England’s performances at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. He noted that while the squad has the talent to reach the semi-finals, navigating the challenging climate will require a bit of luck. Read Also:2026 World [...]
  The post 2026 World Cup: Weather Will Affect England’s Performances–Heskey appeared first on Complete Sports.
  
  Read more

• US issues visa warning to influencers ahead of World Cup

  11-06-2026 17:21 via thesun.ng
  
  The United States government has cautioned international content creators and social media influencers that they may face deportation if they earn cash from content creation while in the country on a tourist visa, a warning issued on the eve to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
  In an email to Spanish news agency EFE on Wednesday, US Customs and Border Protection and the Department of Homeland Security stated that foreign nationals entering the country on a tourist visa and receiving income from a US sour
  
  Read more

• Somali referee denied World Cup entry lands UEFA Super Cup role

  11-06-2026 17:13 via thesun.ng
  
  Somali referee Omar Artan has received a major career boost after UEFA appointed him to officiate the 2026 UEFA Super Cup, just days after he was denied entry into the United States and excluded from the FIFA World Cup.
  UEFA announced on Thursday that Artan will handle the Super Cup showdown between Champions League winners Paris Saint-Germain and Europa League champions Aston Villa on August 12 in Salzburg, Austria.
  Explaining the decision, UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin praised the Somali o
  
  Read more

• Plateau: Footballer slumps, dies during training in Jos

  11-06-2026 17:11 via thesun.ng
  
  From Jude Owuamanam, Jos
  Tragedy struck in Jos on Monday evening when a footballer, Salisu Muhammed, slumped during a training session at the Massalacin Edi Football Field in the Alikazaure community of Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State.
  The player was said to have been pronounced dead at the hospital where he was rushed.
  The incident, which brought the training session to an abrupt end, threw both players and spectators into mourning.
  Muhammed, a resident of the Anguwan Rogo comm
  
  Read more

Follow @SportNewsNGR on Twitter!