Super Eagles Get World Cup Hope Alive as FIFA Punishes South Africa Over Player Scandal.

According to a report from BBC, South Africa’s hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup have been dealt a major setback after the country’s football association (SAFA) was sanctioned for fielding an ineligible player in the qualifiers.

The FIFA Disciplinary Committee ruled that midfielder Teboho Mokoena, who had accumulated two yellow cards in earlier matches and was due to serve a one-match suspension, was wrongly included in South Africa’s 2-0 win over Lesotho on March 21.

His participation was deemed a violation of Article 19 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code and Article 14 of the 2026 World Cup Preliminary Competition Regulations.

In its decision announced on Monday, September 29, FIFA declared the match forfeited, awarding Lesotho a 3-0 victory.

SAFA was also fined CHF 10,000, while Mokoena received a formal warning. “The forfeiture decision remains subject to a potential appeal before the FIFA Appeal Committee,” FIFA said in a statement, per Africa Soccer.

The ruling significantly alters the group standings, with Benin Republic now leading on 14 points (+4 goal difference), ahead of South Africa, also on 14 points but with an inferior goal difference (+3).

Nigeria follows with 11 points (+2), Rwanda also has 11 (0), Lesotho sits on 9 (-3), and Zimbabwe trails with 4 (-6).

With only the group winner guaranteed an automatic ticket to the World Cup and the runner-up possibly advancing via inter-confederation play-offs, the October fixtures will be decisive in determining South Africa’s fate.

Israel Halts Gaza Aid, Launches New Strikes After Accusing Hamas Of Violating Ceasefire.

Israel has launched a new wave of air strikes in southern Gaza and suspended humanitarian aid deliveries into the territory, accusing Hamas of carrying out attacks in “blatant violation” of the ongoing ceasefire agreement.

An Israeli military spokesperson confirmed late Sunday that the strikes targeted what the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) described as “terrorist infrastructure” in Rafah and other parts of southern Gaza.

“Hamas carried out multiple attacks against Israeli forces beyond the yellow line, the area our troops have withdrawn to in accordance with phase one of the US-brokered deal,” the spokesperson said.

“This is a bold violation of the ceasefire, and we will respond firmly.”

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reportedly ordered defence and security officials to “act forcefully against terrorist targets in the Gaza Strip.”

In a swift response, Hamas denied any involvement in the alleged attacks and accused Israel of breaking the agreement.

“We affirm our full commitment to implementing everything that was agreed upon, foremost among which is the ceasefire in all areas of the Gaza Strip,” Hamas said in a statement.

“We are unaware of any events or clashes taking place in the Rafah area… Contact with our remaining groups there has been cut off since the resumption of war in March of this year.”

IDF TROOPS

Chelsea Scouts Target 16-year-old Nigerian Football Sensation, Abduljelil Kamaldeen.

Chelsea scouts are closely monitoring Nigerian wonderkid Abduljelil Kamaldeen, who has caught global attention at the ongoing FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile.

The Blues’ vast scouting network has reportedly identified the 16-year-old midfielder as a top prospect after his impressive cameo in Nigeria’s 1-0 loss to Norway U-20 on Monday. Despite being one of the youngest players at the tournament, Kamaldeen showed composure and creativity against opponents nearly five years older, almost salvaging a late equalizer for the Flying Eagles.

Sources suggest the Kwara Football Academy talent could start Nigeria’s next group match against Saudi Arabia, with several European clubs now tracking his progress.

Chelsea’s interest in Kamaldeen began earlier this year at the WAFU Zone B U-20 Boys Cup in Ghana, where he delivered standout performances — including a goal in Nigeria’s 4-1 win over Benin — and impressed against Niger and Ivory Coast in the later stages. Initially deployed as a left winger, his growing maturity on the ball has seen him move into a central attacking midfield role, where his pace, vision, and dribbling have drawn comparisons to Alex Iwobi.

Football analysts believe his flair and confidence echo that of Iwobi’s uncle, Jay-Jay Okocha, one of Nigeria’s greatest football icons.

Chelsea, renowned for developing African stars like Michael Essien and John Obi Mikel, view Kamaldeen as a potential long-term project. His technical ability and versatility reportedly fit the club’s new youth recruitment strategy.

Meanwhile, Chelsea already have another Nigerian teenager, Chizaram Ezenwata, in their youth setup. The London-born striker, who joined from Charlton Athletic, was not released for Nigeria’s pre-tournament training camp and remains eligible to play for England, Nigeria, or Cameroon.

In a related development, first-team star Cole Palmer was spotted supporting Chelsea’s U-19s this week, praising the club’s rising talents — further evidence of the Blues’ growing focus on youth development.

Drone Strike From Yemen Hits Israeli Resort City of Eilat, 20 Injured
A drone launched from Yemen struck the Israeli resort city of Eilat on September 24, 2025, injuring 20 people, including two critically. The IDF confirmed the attack, saying attempts to intercept the drone failed. Emergency services evacuated casualties to Yoseftal Hospital. Israeli media linked the strike to Yemen’s Houthi rebels, though the group has not claimed responsibility. The incident is part of a series of recent Houthi drone and missile attacks on Israel amid the Gaza conflict, to which Israel has responded with retaliatory strikes on Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen.

Ex-Arsenal Midfielder Thomas Partey Pleads Not Guilty To Rape Charges
Partey was granted bail and will stand trial at Southwark Crown Court in November 2026.

“I’m suffering more than Manchester United fans,” Manager Ruben Amorim Says.

Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has vowed to fight on despite mounting pressure following a 3-0 derby defeat to Manchester City at the Etihad on Sunday.

The Portuguese coach, appointed in November 2024 as Erik ten Hag’s successor, has struggled to steady the Red Devils, winning just two of their last 13 league matches while losing eight. Speaking after the latest setback, Amorim insisted he would not abandon his philosophy.

“I will do everything I can for Manchester United. This is my message to the fans. I’m suffering more than them,” he said. “I won’t change my philosophy. If INEOS want it changed, you change the man.”

Despite spending nearly £200m last summer on attacking signings Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, and Benjamin Sesko, United remain unbalanced. Critics argue the club neglected midfield, leaving Bruno Fernandes forced into a defensive role that does not suit him. Casemiro and Manuel Ugarte have also struggled, often leaving United to bypass midfield entirely.

Amorim’s future now hinges on whether he can correct those flaws, possibly by reshaping his midfield and making tough calls such as dropping captain Fernandes in favour of youngster Kobbie Mainoo.

While replacing Amorim mid-season would be a drastic move for co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, the club cannot allow its current trajectory to continue. If a change is made, observers warn against a hasty appointment, suggesting United may even need to wait until the end of 2025–26 to secure the right candidate.

Bournemouth’s Andoni Iraola is already being linked, having led the Cherries to a record 56 Premier League points last term. His high-energy style could complement United’s new-look forward line and make him a strong contender if Amorim’s tenure ends prematurely.

We’re going to bring down this regime, and nothing will stop us from carrying out the mission Zamir.

According to a report by The Times of Israel on Wednesday, August 10, 2025, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) are preparing for a significant military offensive in Gaza City, as approved by Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir.

In a recent briefing with senior officers, Zamir outlined the IDF’s strategic objectives, emphasizing their unwavering commitment to dismantling Hamas’ rule.

He declared that the IDF’s primary goal is to topple the Hamas regime, asserting that no obstacles will prevent them from achieving this mission.

In his words, “We are going to bring down this regime, and nothing will stop us from carrying out the mission.”

Zamir stressed that this objective is non-negotiable and central to the IDF’s operations.

Zamir highlighted two key priorities guiding the IDF’s actions.

First, he underscored the urgent moral imperative to secure the release of hostages, describing it as a critical and essential task of the highest priority.

Second, he reaffirmed the IDF’s determination to dismantle Hamas’ authority, framing these goals as defining missions for the current generation of IDF leadership

UPDATED: Ekong Dropped As Osimhen, Lookman Lead Nigeria’s Attack Vs Rwanda

Captain William Troost-Ekong has been benched as Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman spearhead Nigeria’s attack in a crucial 2026 World Cup qualifier against Rwanda at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo.

Coach Eric Chelle handed a start to 20-year-old Benjamin Frederick, who will partner Calvin Bassey in central defence. Wilfred Ndidi takes the armband, with Alex Iwobi and Frank Onyeka completing the midfield trio.

Stanley Nwabali keeps his spot in goal, while Moses Simon joins Osimhen and Lookman upfront. Nigeria, with just seven points from six matches, must win to keep alive their slim qualification hopes.

Nigeria’s Starting XI vs Rwanda:
Nwabali; Ola Aina, Bassey, Frederick, Onyemaechi; Ndidi (C), Iwobi, Onyeka; Simon, Lookman, Osimhen.

#SuperEagles #WorldCupQualifiers #NGARWA

Former midfielder Thiago Alcântara has agreed to join Hansi Flick’s coaching staff at Barcelona. The deal is fully completed, with his return expected as early as next week.

#ThiagoAlcantara #FCBarcelona #Barca

Transfer Twist: Man City Eye Shock Move to Hijack Chelsea’s Xavi Simons Deal

The race for Dutch sensation Xavi Simons has taken a dramatic turn as Manchester City reportedly plot to derail Chelsea’s pursuit of the 22-year-old midfielder. With negotiations between Chelsea and RB Leipzig stalling, Pep Guardiola’s side is keeping a close watch, ready to swoop in for the versatile playmaker who can shine in midfield or on the wings.

City’s interest comes amid squad shake-ups — Jack Grealish on loan to Everton, James McAtee set for Nottingham Forest, and speculation over Savinho’s future. Meanwhile, Chelsea’s swap-deal hopes involving Christopher Nkunku have hit complications, giving City a potential opening.

Football analyst Kevin Hatchard suggests Chelsea still lead the race, but questions over Simons’ attitude in Germany have fueled debate. Will City hijack the deal, or will Chelsea seal the signing? The summer transfer window just got hotter.

#XaviSimons #ManCity #ChelseaFC #TransferNews

Britain will recognise a Palestinian state in September unless Israel ends the 'appalling' crisis in Gaza, Sir Keir Starmer told his Cabinet today.
Sir Keir told the meeting of his top ministers on Tuesday that the UK will recognise the state of Palestine in September before the
UN General Assembly in New York.
This is 'unless the Israeli government takes substantive steps to end the appalling situation in Gaza', the PM added.
#keirstarmer #palestine #news #labour #gaza #israel #netanyahu #idf

The Freedom Flotilla Handala, a humanitarian mission carrying aid to Gaza, has reportedly been captured by the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF). This flotilla, named after the iconic Palestinian cartoon symbol Handala, aimed to break the blockade and deliver urgent supplies to the besieged people of Gaza. Its seizure highlights the continuing restrictions on desperately needed aid and the immense obstacles faced by activists trying to deliver food, medicine, and relief. The interception of Handala underscores the severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where international solidarity efforts are being blocked, intensifying calls for an end to the blockade and occupation.
#freedomflotilla #Handala #Gaza #Israel #fyp
@Jacob Berger @Gaza Freedom Flotilla

Today’s Israeli Strike in Tripoli Kills Hamas Commander, Seen as Major Setback.

A powerful Israeli airstrike in Lebanon's northern port city of Tripoli earlier today has reportedly dealt a significant blow to Hamas operations in the region, following the confirmed elimination of a top commander long tied to cross-border rocket attacks on Israeli cities. The strike, described by Israeli Defence Forces as a targeted operation, is already being interpreted by military analysts as a strategic setback for the Gaza-based group’s foothold in Lebanon.

According to a report by The Times of Israel on Tuesday, 8 July 2025, the Israeli military confirmed that the airstrike killed Mehran Mustafa Bajur, a senior Hamas figure allegedly instrumental in orchestrating and advancing armed operations against Israel from Lebanese territory. In an official statement, the Israeli Defence Forces identified Bajur as a key commander who had spent recent years overseeing rocket fire into Israeli cities such as Nahariya and Kiryat Shmona. The military further claimed that his elimination marks a significant disruption to Hamas’s cross-border aggression from the north.

Bajur was described as a pivotal figure in Hamas’s regional operations, not only for directing attacks but also for enhancing the group’s infrastructure in Lebanon. The IDF stated that he played a leading role in the development of Hamas’s military capabilities in the country and helped facilitate weapons procurement through networks linked to other terror groups. His operational ties reportedly made him a valuable asset in Hamas’s efforts to expand its regional reach beyond Gaza. According to the IDF, his removal represents a “significant blow” to Hamas’s broader ambitions in Lebanon, particularly at a time when Israel remains engaged on multiple fronts.

This development comes amid heightened tensions along Israel’s northern border, where exchanges of fire between Israeli forces and Hezbollah-linked factions have intensified in recent weeks. Observers suggest the targeted killing may deter future rocket attacks from Lebanese soil and signal Israel’s continued resolve to eliminate high-ranking operatives perceived as threats, regardless of their geographic base.

Iranian Ballistic Missile Strikes on IDF Bases

Satellite imagery indicates Iranian forces launched ballistic missiles targeting five IDF bases, including intelligence and air-defense installations. Israel reportedly saw a reduction in interceptions this time .

Ex-Arsenal Star Thomas Partey Charged with Multiple Counts of R+pe.

Former Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey has been charged with five counts of r+pe and one count of s+x¥al a§§ault by the UK’s Metropolitan Police.

The charges involve three women and relate to alleged incidents that took place between 2021 and 2022. Two r+pe charges concern one woman, three relate to another, while the s+x¥al a§§a¥lt charge involves a third. Police said Partey, 32, is expected to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, August 5.

The charges follow an investigation launched in February 2022 after the first report of r+pe was filed. Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy stated: “Our priority remains providing support to the women who have come forward.” Partey, who recently left Arsenal after his contract expired, has denied all allegations.

His lawyer said the Ghanaian international has cooperated fully with the police and Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) during the three-year investigation and looks forward to clearing his name.

Due to the ongoing legal process, he will not be making further public comments. Partey joined Arsenal from Atlético Madrid in 2020 and made 130 appearances during his time in North London, despite struggling with inj¥ries.

He also scored four goals last season and remains a key figure in Ghana’s national team. Following his Arsenal exit, Partey has drawn interest from top European clubs including Juventus, Barcelona, and Fenerbahce. The Met Police urges anyone with information about the case, or who has been affected, to come forward.

ISRAEL TARGETS IRAN'S DRONE NETWORK, ELIMINATES SENIOR IRGC COMMANDER.

According to Iran International English, the Israeli military has announced on Saturday that it has killed Aminpour Joudaki, a senior commander in Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), in an airstrike. The report alleged the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) of recounting that Joudaki led the second UAV brigade of the IRGC Air Force, and played a major role in orchestrating drone attacks against Israeli targets.

"As part of his role, Aminpour Joudaki advanced hundreds of Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) attacks against Israeli territory from the area of Ahvaz in southwestern Iran," the IDF said in an official statement.

The strike is part of an ongoing Israeli campaign targeting key figures within Iran’s UAV command structure. The IDF noted that Joudaki had recently taken on a more prominent leadership position following the death of another senior IRGC official earlier this month.

"Following the elimination of Taher Pour, the commander of the UAV headquarters of the IRGC Air Force on June 13, 2025, Joudaki assumed a key role in the headquarters' operations," the statement continued.

Israel has ramped up its operations against Iranian drone units in recent months, citing growing threats from Iranian-made UAVs deployed not only directly from Iran but also through proxies across the region. The killing of Joudaki is expected to further disrupt Iran’s UAV activities, particularly those based out of the strategic Ahvaz region.

There was no immediate response from Iranian officials regarding Joudaki’s reported death. However, analysts suggest the strike is likely to heighten tensions between the two nations, which have been locked in a shadow conflict involving cyber attacks, sabotage and targeted killings.

The IDF has framed the operation as a preemptive defence measure aimed at curbing escalating UAV threats. The broader regional implications, however, remain uncertain as Israel continues to pursue a strategy of eliminating what it calls "high-value terror assets" within Iranian military ranks.

ISRAELI AIR FORCE STRIKES BALLISTIC MISSILE INFRASTRUCTURE, SOLDIERS IN WESTERN IRAN

According to a report by The Times of Israel, the Israeli Air Force (IAF) has carried out a significant wave of airstrikes in western Iran, targeting ballistic missile infrastructure and Iranian military personnel, according to a statement released by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).

The operation, conducted a short while ago, involved approximately 20 IAF fighter jets and marks one of the most extensive Israeli air assaults on Iranian territory since the start of the current escalation. The IDF confirmed that the primary targets included missile launch platforms, storage facilities, and support infrastructure related to Iran’s ballistic missile program.

In addition to the fighter jet operations, an Israeli drone carried out a separate precision strike on a convoy of trucks transporting ballistic missiles. According to the military, the vehicles were struck as they arrived at a launch site, potentially preventing another missile barrage against Israeli territory.

The IDF said the attacks were launched in response to the ongoing threat posed by Iran’s long-range missile capabilities, which have been deployed against Israel multiple times in recent days. The operation is part of Israel’s broader strategic effort to degrade Iran’s offensive capacity and disrupt its ability to launch further attacks.

Western Iran has served as a hub for many of Tehran’s missile operations, with several known launch sites and storage depots believed to be located in the region. The strikes come just hours after ballistic missiles fired from Iran triggered sirens across northern Israel, although no casualties were reported.

The military has not disclosed the precise locations of the strikes or the number of Iranian personnel killed. However, the IDF emphasized that the operation was carefully planned to avoid collateral damage and was focused solely on military targets.

Israeli defense officials continue to warn of further action if Iran persists in its efforts to target Israeli territory.

ISRAEL AIR FORCE HIT 12 IRANIAN MISSILE LAUNCH SITES IN PRECISION STRIKES

In a decisive escalation of its military campaign, Israel has launched a powerful wave of airstrikes targeting Iranian missile infrastructure deep inside hostile territory. The Israeli Air Force struck 12 missile storage and launch sites belonging to Iran, in what the military described as a strategic move to prevent further attacks on Israeli soil.

According to a report shared today by The Times of Israel, the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) released footage showing Iranian forces preparing to launch ballistic missiles toward Israel. The videos, captured by surveillance and attack drones, show the exact moment Israeli jets identified the threat and moved swiftly to neutralise it.

One of the released clips features a precision strike on an Iranian air defence system guarding one of the missile sites. The second video shows direct hits on Iranian launch infrastructure, reportedly moments before a planned missile barrage. These visuals were shared by the IDF to reinforce claims that the strikes were not only pre-emptive but highly accurate.

The military operation comes as part of Israel’s broader efforts to dismantle Iran’s ability to wage direct or proxy attacks. In recent days, the IDF has intensified its operations across multiple fronts, targeting Iranian assets and proxies in Syria, Iraq, and now Iran itself.

This latest strike demonstrates Israel’s growing reliance on real-time intelligence and high-precision air power in thwarting threats before they can materialise. With tensions between Tehran and Jerusalem at their highest in years, Israel’s message is unmistakably clear: any preparations to attack will be met with immediate and overwhelming force.

As the situation evolves, all eyes are now on Iran’s next move — and whether the United States will deepen its involvement amid rising pressure to support Israeli military efforts.

The Most Difficult Position in Football
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