HELLO SPORT’S FANS AND WELCOME TO RHYTHM SPORTS
TOP OF OUR BILL THIS MORNING
NAPOLI REJECT TWO OFFERS FROM GALATASARAY FOR VICTOR OSIMHEN, INSIST ON 75M EUROS RELEASE CLAUSE
FLYING EAGLES LAND IN GHANA FOR WAFU B TOURNAMENT
CHELSEA DEFEAT FLUMINENSE TO BOOK FINAL SPOT AT ONGOING CLUB WORLD CUP
AND OTHER STORIES FROM TENNIS, CYCLING
THESE AND MORE AFTER THIS TIME OUT
BASKETBALL
The Nigeria U-19 Women’s Basketball Team, have departed Abuja for Brno, Czech, to compete in the FIBA U19 Women’s Basketball World Cup.
After weeks of intense training at the MKO Abiola Stadium, the team is set to begin their campaign against China on July 12.
The tournament tips off on July 12 in Czechia, with Nigeria placed in Group C alongside China, Canada, and Portugal.
The team will open their campaign against China on the opening day after the 16 teams were divided into four groups of four teams each.
All 16 teams participating in the event will advance to the competition’s Final Phase with a single-elimination format in place from the Round of 16 onwards.
The teams from Group A will face teams from Group B, based on standings within these groups (1st vs 4th – 2nd vs 3rd) and teams from Group C will face teams from Group D.
ATHLETICS
African Games gold medallist and former African champion, Patience Okon-George, is confirmed to compete in the women’s 400m at the highly anticipated AFN/Dynamic Athletics Meet.
Fresh off an outstanding performance at the National Sports Festival in May, where she blazed to a new Festival Record of 51.64s, the veteran quarter-miler will be looking to build on that momentum and thrill fans once again.
The AFN/Dynamic Athletics Meet offers yet another chance to witness one of Nigeria’s finest 400m runners in her element.
There are insinuation that former Africa’s track queen, Mary Onyali could be making a cameo appearance at the event.
The meet gets underway this Thursday at the Yabatech Sports Complex.
TEAM NIGERIA RELAY
In the meantime, Team Nigeria’s squad for the CAA U-18,U-20 Championships is taking shape ahead of the competition billed for July 16-20 in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
After one week of drills in camp, coaches are concentrating on areas Nigeria is most likely to have a medal sweep and these include the relays.
Sequel to this, the relay teams will participate in the July 10 Athletics Federation of Nigeria/Dynamic Meet billed for the Yaba College of Technology sports ground in Lagos.
AFN President Tonobok Okowa said “After almost one week of training our team is coming together and the athletes are in high spirits ahead of participating at the AFN/Dynamic Meet.
He pointed out that “This will enable us see them in a competition mood and also an opportunity for them to perfect their baton exchange seamlessly,”
Okowa added that arrangements have been made to pay them camping and competition allowances while it would be at the discretion of rhe LOC to determine “if there would be any special motivation for the athletes at the championships.
On preparations so for the Championships Okowa stated that the Local Organising Comittee was up to the task, stressing that “I believe in LOC and all they are doing they are doing a good job so far and I’m sure they will deliver a healthy and lively atmosphere for the continent’s athletes to compete.
NNADOZIE
Super Falcons goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie has spoken about the difficulty of leaving Paris FC after five successful seasons as she prepares for a new challenge with Brighton & Hove Albion in the English Women’s Super League.
Her time in the French capital saw her rise to prominence as one of Africa’s finest goalkeepers, helping Paris FC secure Champions League qualification and earn widespread recognition across Europe.
Nnadozie developed a strong bond with the club and its fans, but the desire for a new challenge ultimately influenced her decision to join the Seagulls.
During her time at Paris FC, she made 118 appearances and helped them win the Coupe de France Féminine in her final season with the club.
Nnadozie is yet to arrive in England but says the support from Nigerian fans based in Brighton has already been overwhelming.
The goalkeeper is optimistic about settling in quickly, thanks to the strong Nigerian presence in England and the warm welcome she’s receiving ahead of linking up with her new teammates after the Wafcon.
Although she kept Brighton’s expectations for her under wraps, she acknowledged that clubs always aim to improve.
FLYING EAGLES
Nigeria’s U20 national team, the Flying Eagles, have arrived in Ghana ahead of the West African Football Union (WAFU) Zone B U20 Championship, which is set to kick off on Thursday, July 10, 2025..
The team flew Africa World Airlines and touched down in Accra at 9:30pm on Monday night following a one-hour flight from the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos.
The Flying Eagles are drawn in Group A alongside host nation Ghana and Benin Republic. Group B features Côte d’Ivoire, Burkina Faso, Niger Republic, and Togo.
Aliyu Zubairu side will begin their campaign with a high-stakes encounter against Ghana on Thursday, July 10, before facing Benin Republic three days later, on Sunday, July 13.
The top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals of the regional youth competition, which serves as a key platform for scouting emerging talent in West African football.
Originally postponed, the WAFU B U20 tournament has now been officially rescheduled to run from July 10 to 23, 2025. Though initial dates were undisclosed, the updated schedule marks a return of the prestigious youth tournament and an opportunity for Nigeria to reassert its dominance at the youth level.
OSIMHEN
Napoli have told Victor Osimhen to get a new club soon or he will stay put at the club.
Today’s II Mattino newspaper further reported that by Thursday that Napoli will receive two offers for the striker.
Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal will submit the 75 Million Euros release clause of Napoli.
They have also agreed a lucrative contract with Osimhen, who has asked them for more time to take a decision.
The second offer will be from Galatasaray, who will be expected to improve the 60 Million Euros they put forward this week.
Napoli have insisted they will not lower their 75 Million Euros termination clause.
The Turkish champions have also agreed to pay the striker an annual salary of 15 Million Euros with a signing-on bonus of 10 Million Euros.
The Napoli pre-season training camp opens a week from today and Osimhen’s future will have to be resolved before then.
The release clause of the player will expire same day and thereafter, it will be left for Napoli to decide on the transfer fee they will receive.
Meanwhile, Victor Osimhen has reportedly turned down a lucrative four-year offer from Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal worth €160 million, opting instead to continue his career at Galatasaray.
LOOKMAN
Napoli strike force will be at a higher level with the signing of Ademola Lookman, according to a former director of the Italian champions.
Napoli coach Antonio Conte has personally selected Ademola Lookman, who wishes to quit Atalanta this summer.
Former Napoli director Pierpaolo Marino said the reigning CAF Player of the Year will be great for the club.
He said “The first player (I would bring to Napoli), is absolutely Lookman. Because he would integrate perfectly with both Lukaku and a striker with different characteristics like Lucca could be,”
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“The second is Ndoye, because I consider him an important player who, together with Lookman, could adequately plug the sale of Kvara and ensure a package of offensive wingers on the left flank of the highest level”.
He further praised how Napoli have approached the summer transfer market, pointing out “It is approach that I would define as aggressive and positive,”.
“Aggressive because Napoli is present in several negotiations, because it has already closed the purchases of De Bruyne and Marianucci, but above all because it is already well positioned on Lucca, on Lookman, on Ndoye and on other important profiles that can open up excellent prospects for the continuation of the market.”
Meanwhile, Atalanta have reportedly placed a €50 million valuation on their star forward, Ademola Lookman, the reigning African Footballer of the Year, as interest from Atletico Madrid intensifies.
OGBU
Super Eagles defender Igoh Ogbu has expressed gratitude to Slavia Prague head coach Jindřich Trpišovský for playing a key role in his development and eventual debut for the Nigerian national team.
Ogbu, who joined the Czech champions from Norwegian side Lillestrøm in January 2023, made his first appearance for Nigeria during the Unity Cup tournament in London this past May.
The 25-year-old center-back has enjoyed a remarkable rise since joining Slavia, contributing two goals and an assist in 25 league appearances last season as the Red and Whites clinched the league title and secured a spot in the UEFA Champions League group stage.
Speaking to Livesport, Ogbu emphasized the impact Trpišovský has had on his game and personal growth.
Ogbu said “Coach Trpišovský has a big part in my growth and therefore in my being called up to the national team.
“He’s great, and defending is his specialty. He’s helped me tremendously on the field and in my personal life.”
The Nigerian international also praised the Slavia boss for creating a supportive atmosphere within the squad.
“He makes sure everything is in order on and off the field. His door is always open, and he encourages us to talk to him about problems.
KANO PILLARS
The General Manager of Kano Pillars FC and Super Eagles captain, Ahmed Musa, MON, OON, has pledged to restore the club’s status as one of Africa’s elite football institutions.
Speaking during a familiarization meeting with the club’s Chairman, Ali Muhammad Umar, and Board members, Musa expressed his deep commitment to reviving the team’s glory and building on its proud legacy.
According to a statement from the Media & Communications Directorate of Kano Pillars FC, the former Leicester City and CSKA Moscow forward stressed the urgency of working strategically to elevate the four-time Nigerian champions onto the global stage.
Musa assured stakeholders of his readiness to collaborate with both local and international partners to realize this vision. He emphasized that his vast experience in European football, combined with a strong grasp of the Nigerian football environment, would be key to driving the club forward.
Musa noted “Kano Pillars is our club and one of the most successful in Nigeria, but in recent years, things have changed,”. adding “With your support and the backing of the Board, I’m fully committed to repositioning this club and making it a force not just in Africa, but globally. I’ve played here, I’ve played in Europe, and I believe I can use that experience to help the club reach its full potential.”
He also underscored the importance of unity, clear planning, and collective dedication from all stakeholders including management, players, fans, and partners to achieve sustainable success.
With Musa at the helm, Kano Pillars is set to enter a new chapter defined by ambition, professionalism, and a drive for excellence not just for the people of Kano, but for football fans across Nigeria and beyond.
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CHELSEA
Chelsea reached the final of the Club World Cup as two goals from new signing Joao Pedro helped sink Brazilian side Fluminense.
The 23-year-old, making his full debut against his boyhood club, curled home his first goal in the 18th minute after former Blues defender Thiago Silva failed to clear Pedro Neto’s cross.
His second, a powerful shot which went in off the bar in the 56th minute, sealed victory.
The win ensures Chelsea add £22m to the £60m already earned at the competition, with Joao Pedro quickly helping to repay some of the £55m paid to sign him from Brighton last week.
Christopher Nkunku had multiple chances to add to the scoreline while at the other end, Marc Cucurella cleared Hercules shot off the line and substitute Everaldo had a shot saved.
The Rio-based club may be aggrieved to have seen referee Francois Letexier overturn his own decision to give a first-half penalty for a handball by Trevoh Chalobah after a VAR intervention.
However, Chelsea always looked likely to progress once they opened the scoring in a mostly-full MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, which sweltered in 35C heat.
The only blot on Chelsea’s night was a potential injury to midfielder Moises Caicedo, who appeared to injure his ankle in the 93rd minute and walked off the pitch before the match finished.
The Blues will face either Real Madrid or Paris Saint-Germain in Sunday’s final at the same venue (20:00 BST).
CRYSTAL PALACE
Crystal Palace will move a step closer towards discovering whether they can play in next season’s Europa League with Lyon’s appeal against their relegation from Ligue 1 set to start on Wednesday.
The French club’s hearing, which will be crucial towards Uefa’s decision as to whether Palace can compete in the Europa League, has been brought forward after initially being due to take place at the end of this week, multiple sources have told BBC Sport.
French football authorities have demoted Lyon into Ligue 2 due to their poor financial state.
But the club have appealed against the decision, with French football’s watchdog now set to rule over whether to uphold the relegation or hand Lyon a reprieve.
If Lyon maintain their Ligue 1 status, the French side would likely keep their place in the Europa League, potentially at Palace’s expense.
If their relegation is upheld, Lyon have agreed with Uefa to be excluded from the competition – clearing the way for Palace to play in the competition.
The uncertainty over Palace’s European spot next season stems from a perceived breach of Uefa’s multi-club ownership rules.
Eagle Football Holdings – owned by American businessman John Textor – is at the centre of the case.
DIOGO
All the evidence so far suggests Portuguese footballer Diogo Jota was driving when his car crashed on a Spanish motorway, and he was likely speeding, say police.
The 28-year-old Liverpool player was killed with his brother André Silva, 25, when their Lamborghini car had a suspected tyre blowout in northwestern Zamora province early last Thursday.
Spain’s Guardia Civil police force said at the time the car had apparently been overtaking on the A52 motorway near Palacios de Sanabria when it left the road and burst into flames.
Zamora’s local traffic police said “Everything also points to a possible excessive speed beyond the speed limit of the road [highway],”.
Tyre marks were analysed some distance from where the Lamborghini’s tyre blew out
Police said they had studied the marks left by one of the Lamborghini’s tyres and that “all the tests carried out so far indicate that the driver of the crashed vehicle was Diogo Jota”.
The accident happened 11 days after Jota had married his long-term partner Rute Cardoso in Portugal. The couple had three children.
The brothers had been heading to the Spanish port of Santander so Jota could return to Liverpool for pre-season training.
Their funeral took place in their hometown of Gondomar, near Porto at the weekend.
LIVERPOOL
Liverpool players have started to return to the club for pre-season training following the death of team-mate Diogo Jota.
The first set of players were scheduled to come back from their summer break last Friday but that was postponed after Jota, 28, and his 25-year-old brother Andre Silva died in a car accident.
Jota was on his way back to Liverpool for pre-season and, as doctors had advised him against flying because he had undergone minor surgery, he was making the trip by car and ferry.
A large contingent of players and staff from the Anfield club paid their respects to the forward and his brother at a public wake in their native Portugal on Friday.
The funeral took place on Saturday in their hometown of Gondomar, with Reds captain Virgil van Dijk and Scotland defender Andy Robertson carrying floral tributes in honour of Jota and Andre Silva.
Manager Arne Slot was also part of Liverpool’s delegation and his side are due to play their first pre-season match against Preston North End at Deepdale on Sunday, 13 July.
CHAMPIONS LEAGUE
In some ways the purest form of the Champions League starts this week.
It is only 38 days since Paris St-Germain demolished Inter Milan at the Allianz Arena in front of the eyes of the world – but the vibe is very different as the new campaign kicks off.
The first qualifying round begins on Tuesday at 16:00 BST in Kuopio, Finland, with 28 teams – all of them champions of their country – in action this week.
There may be no Champions League anthem before games and clubs just use their own balls but it is the Champions League still – including Virtus, from San Marino, who are eight games away from the league phase.
Only Liechtenstein, who do not have a league, and Russia, who remain banned because of the war with Ukraine, do not get at least one Champions League spot.
It is a long road to the 2026 final in Budapest in 326 days’ time, although it is likely every club kicking off this week will be footnotes by then.
NEWCASTLE
Newcastle United have agreed a £55m fee with Nottingham Forest for Sweden winger Anthony Elanga.
Sources have told BBC Sport the deal could be completed this week.
Newcastle are seeking to strengthen their attacking options as they prepare for their return to the Champions League following a fifth-place Premier League finish last season.
The 23-year-old scored six goals and produced 11 assists for Nuno Espirito Santo’s side during their successful 2024-25 Premier League season.
TENNIS
Two-time defending champion Carlos Alcaraz produced a Wimbledon masterclass to end British hope Cameron Norrie’s run and move into the semi-finals once again.
Second seed Alcaraz underlined why he is the tournament favourite with a scintillating 6-2 6-3 6-3 win.
The Spaniard will face Taylor Fritz – the American fifth seed bidding for a first major title – in the last four.
Fritz secured his place in the Wimbledon semi-finals for the first time with a 6-3 6-4 1-6 7-6 kvictory over Russia’s Karen Khachanov.
Alcaraz is seeded behind Italian rival Jannik Sinner because of their respective world rankings, but his superior record on grass courts – and current hot streak – makes him the man to beat.
Victory over Norrie marked a 23rd win in a row for Alcaraz, who is bidding to become the fifth man to win three successive Wimbledon titles in the Open era.
CYCLING
Defending champion Tadej Pogacar outsprinted Mathieu van der Poel and Jonas Vingegaard as he claimed his 100th professional victory on stage four of the Tour de France.
The result means that the Slovenian moves level on time with Dutch rider at the top of the general classification with Van der Poel retaining the leader’s yellow jersey on count-back.
With five categorised climbs in the final 50km of the 174.2km route into Rouen, all the main favourites were involved in a series of attacks that split the race open and delivered a compelling finale.
However, Pogacar, delivered a show of strength on another classics-style stage to surge away from Van der Poel in an uphill dash to the finish having initially distanced all his rivals, bar Danish rival Vingegaard, on the short but punishing climb up the Rampe Saint-Hilaire, five kilometres out.
Pogacar said “I hope today that everyone was on the limit. I tried with an attack on the second last climb and last climb and Jonas [Vingegaard] followed me and everything came together,”.
UP NEXT IS OUR THUMBS UP
OUR THUMBS UP TODAY GOES TO CHELSEA WHO DEFEATED FLUMINENSE 2-0 IN THE FIRST SEMI FINAL OF THE FIFA CLUB WORLD CUP.
FOR THEIR DECENT PERFORMANCE SINCE THE COMPETITION STARTED WHICH HAS LED THEM TO THE FINAL OF THE CLUB WORLD CUP, CHELSEA GET OUR THUMBS UP AND THIS ROUND OF APAUSE.
THANKS TO THE PRODUCTION TEAM LED BY THE PRODUCER, VICTOR IROELE, AND DO REMEMBER TO JOIN THE SPORTS CREW AT 5PM TODAY FOR SPORTS FLASH.
I AM… GOOD MORNING
