Author: The Nation

Christophe Galtier has been sacked by Paris Saint-Germain after winning the Ligue 1 title, sources have told ESPN.

Galtier led PSG to the 2022-23 league title but failed to deliver success in the Champions League, with the French club knocked out by Bayern Munich in the round of 16.

According to ESPN sources, PSG sporting director Luis Campos informed Galtier on Tuesday that he was sacked by the club with former Bayern manager Julian Nagelsmann set to continue talks with the club.

Sources added that the club also held talks with former Spain and Barcelona coach Luis Enrique but have now made Nagelsmann their top target, with the German coach keen for Thierry Henry to join him as his assistant.

Read Also: Messi confirmed to leave PSG

There is growing confidence that an agreement can be made for Nagelsmann and Henry to join the French champions.

Galtier joined PSG last summer after leading Nice to a ninth-place finish in 2021-22 and has had stints in charge of Lille and Saint-Etienne.

Lionel Messi and Sergio Ramos will also leave the club this summer after the expiry of their contracts. Sources told ESPN in May that Neymar is also ready to leave PSG in the summer, with the club willing to let him go if they receive a suitable offer.

Karim Benzema has joined Saudi Arabia champions Al Ittihad after leaving Real Madrid.

The French forward announced his departure from the Spanish club last weekend, bringing a 14-year spell to an end where he won LaLiga on four occasions and the Champions League five times.

Al Ittihad are managed by former Wolves and Tottenham boss Nuno Espirito Santo and finished five points ahead of Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr – who finished second – last season.

Benzema said farewell to Real Madrid in a small, private ceremony closed to fans and media yesterday after choosing to leave the club.

“I will never forget Real Madrid,” said Benzema. “It’s impossible. It’s the best club in history but I think today is the time to leave and to get to know another story.

“It’s difficult to talk with so many feelings but I wanted to thank Real Madrid and my team-mates. It was a good path in my life. I have been lucky enough to fulfil my childhood dream.”

Benzema scored 354 goals during 14 years at Real and sits second on the club’s all-time scoring list behind Cristiano Ronaldo.

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez told Benzema: “You have been an example of behaviour and professionalism in our club.

“You have earned the right to decide your destiny. A future that only belongs to you and we must respect it.”

Read Also: Benzema joins Saudi champions Al Ittihad

Rivers United duo of Joseph Onoja and Chiamaka Madu have expressed their dissatisfaction with their performance against Remo Stars in one of the Day Two games at the ongoing NPFL Championship Playoffs in Lagos.

The Pride of Rivers scored first through Nyima Nwagua in the 16th but two goals from Lekan Adedayo in the 71st and 95th minutes almost handed all points to the Sky Blue Stars before the league’s reigning champions rescued a point at the death.

Onoja who was thrilled that they didn’t surrender the three points said they have learned their lessons and would come out forcefully against Lobi Stars today at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Lagos.

“It was a cracker. We give God the glory. We almost lost it but we put up a brave fight because we don’t always give up. At the end of the day we got a point,” Onoja, who got injured in the draw with Remo Stars, said.

“We have learned our lessons. We are coming out with full force and I know by God’s grace, we will get it right.”

Chiamaka Madu who previously played for Enugu Rangers admitted it was two points lost: “It was two points lost honestly because we were ahead but due to our carelessly we conceded cheap goals,”

Read Also: Lobi Stars, City FC Abuja to kick-off Naija Super 8

The President, Nigeria Weightlifting Federation (NWF)Dr Ibrahim Abdul has been appointed by the Nigeria Olympics Committee (NOC) as chairman of its Sport-For-All Commission.

The appointment which is contained in a letter dated May 29, 2023 noted that Dr Abdul’s engagement was in recognition of his wealth of experience and outstanding contribution to Nigerian Sports as well as the Olympic Movement.

In the letter signed by the President NOC, Eng. Habu Gumel , charged him to bring his expertise to bear in his new office and wished the Commission’s chairman all the best in the discharge of his responsibilities.

“It is my pleasure to inform you that the Executive Board of the Nigeria Olympic Committee has approved your appointment as the Chairman of the Sport For All Commission.

“Your appointment is in recognition of your wealth of experience and outstanding contribution to Nigerian Sports as well as the Olympic Movement. It is therefore hoped that you would bring to bear your expertise and experience in achieving the goals of your Commission and the NOC in general.

“While congratulating you, we wish you the best of luck in your endeavours,” the letter read

Meanwhile, Abdul’s first assignment as Sport-For-All Commission Chairman is organisation of the forthcoming Olympic Day Celebration slated to hold on June 24.

Termed ‘’Let’s Move,” the celebration seeks to encourage people to be physically active for at least 30 minutes a day, corresponding to the minimum time recommended by the World Health Organization for good health.

It is also a special day to promote the Olympic values of excellence, friendship and respect as enunciated by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) over the years.

A total of 21 states including the Federal Capital Territory have registered to take part in the Olympics Day Celebration which was last held prior to the Coronavirus pandemic in 2020.

Nigeria Olympic Committee, NOC President, Eng. Habu Gumel will declare the Celebration open.

Read Also: IOC issues recommendations for Russian athletes’ return

Sword Spikers of Benue yesterday spanked Imo Spikers 3-1 in front of their home fans (18-25, 25-14, 25-17, 26-24) on Day 2 of the ongoing 2023 National Division 2 Volleyball Men’s League at the Dan Anyiam Stadium in Owerri.

It was Sword’s third win of the league while Imo Spikers who earlier defeated Udogu Spikers 3-1 (25-20, 17-25, 25-22, 25-20) suffered their first loss after three league games.

Newly formed volleyball team, Safety Spikers (FRSC) led by Sami Dogonyaro recorded their first win at the on-going 2023 National Division 2 Volleyball League.

Safety Spikers (FRSC) defeated stubborn Adamawa Spikers 3-1 (25-23, 6-25, 25-22, 25-23). Safety Spikers had earlier lost to Oluyole Spikers and Life Camp Spikers of Abuja 3-1 and 3-0 respectively.

In another Division 2 game played, Oluyole Spikers of Ibadan defeated Olalomi Royal Volleyball Club of Offa 3-0 (31-29, 28-26, 25-16) and Safety Spikers 3-1 (23-25, 25-23, 25-21, 25-23) for their fourth wins in the competition.

Oluyole Spikers coach, Aboderin Ayokunnu was full of praises for his players for their impressive fourth consecutive wins but he cautioned them against complacency.

“The beauty of all coaches is to continue winning. I feel great and good that we have won all our four matches,” Ayokunnu told NationSport.

“I feel we still need to work more to ensure we win all our 10 games. I always tell my boys that we do not have business in Division Two if not for financial difficulties. We are working towards getting promotion this term and also doing the same next season to get us to the premier league.”

In other results Niger Brass breezed past Adamawa Spikers 3-1 (25-19, 21-25, 27-25, 25-19) on Day 2 of the ongoing 2023 National Division 2 Volleyball Men’s League. It was Niger Brass’ second victory after losing their opening fixture to Oluyole Spikers 3-2 in a game they roared back from two sets down. They also beat Ajase Ipo Volleyball Club of Offa who are winless after three games.

Life Camp Spikers of Abuja secured their third successive win of the ongoing 2023 National Division 2 League after they defeated Kwara based Olalomi Royal Spikers 3-0 (25-19, 25-16, 25-23). Olalomi Royal only has a win from three games.

The 2023 National Division 1 and 2 Volleyball Leagues continue today with games slated for the Volleyball Court, Dan Anyiam Stadium, Owerri.

Read Also: National Volleyball Leagues: Imo Spikers, Oluyole Spikers secure opening day wins

Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma has admonished Nigerians on the need to be actively involved in sporting activities in order to stay healthy.

Uzodinma who was represented by his Deputy, Prof. Placid Njoku, disclosed this during the flagging off of the 2023 National Division 1 and 2 Volleyball Leagues organized by Nigeria Volleyball Federation (NVBF) in collaboration with Imo State Government at the Dan Anyiam Stadium, Owerri.

The Governor commended NVBF for granting Imo State the hosting rights of such national event and assured them of maximum collaborative partnership.

The Governor canvassed for grassroots development of sports, advising players and the teams on the need to embrace the spirit of good sportsmanship and patriotism assuring that the essence of the competition was to discover new talents that will boost the volleyball premiership league and the national team.

He expressed his desire for the various teams in the competition including Imo Spikers to excel at the end of the championship.

“His Excellency, the Governor likes young people and consequently anything that will enable him to provide appropriate welfare for young people are things that suit his heart. He has worked assiduously to ensure that the facilities at the Dan Anyiam Stadium, Owerri are totally rehabilitated,” Njoku stated. “We do know that some of you taking part in this competition will be flagged to be in the national team. You will be selling yourself if you perform well.

“It is in my place to encourage all the teams and Nigerians as a whole to take to one sport or another. Sports is healthy, it’s good for your health, your future.

“We warmly welcome our visitors. We know that you will thoroughly enjoy your stay in Owerri.”

Other dignitaries at the occasion were 2nd Vice President Nigeria Volleyball Federation and Comptroller Nigeria Immigration Service, Mrs Nkechi Ezugwu, the Imo State Commissioner for Youth, Sports and Social Development, Emeka Okoronkwo, Director of Sports, Imo Sports Commission, Sir Ferdinand Emeana among others.

Read Also: National Volleyball Leagues: Imo Spikers, Oluyole Spikers secure opening day wins

Neither Manchester City’s past failures in Europe nor their domestic success will have any bearing on Saturday’s Champions League final, manager Pep Guardiola said yesterday as he urged his players to focus on their own performances.

Guardiola has won five Premier League titles, two FA Cups and four League Cups at City but European success has eluded the manager who won the trophy twice as Barcelona head coach.

City have never won Europe’s elite club competition and lost the final to Chelsea in 2021, but will be favourites to beat Inter Milan this week and complete their bid for a historic treble – having already won the Premier League and FA Cup.

“It is a dream to be here, two years ago we were there but in a different situation,” the Spanish coach told reporters ahead of the final in Istanbul.

“We are going to try to do our best as we know the final depends on how you behave over the specific 90 minutes. It is not about history – if they are better than us.

“It is about what you have to do in 90 minutes to be better than the opponent. It doesn’t count what you have done in the group stage, quarter-finals, last season, Premier League or FA Cup. It is one single game.”

The City boss heaped praise on opponents Inter’s organisation and defence, with the Italian side having conceded just three goals over the course of six matches in this year’s Champions League knockout stage.

“What we are trying to do in the next few days is try to understand how to play with a lot of difficulties as it is not easy to attack the defensive system Inter use,” Guardiola said.

“So we will have to bring a lot of rhythm and be patient – we are not going to do it with three or four passes. We have to know the right tempo.

“They have a good shape not just in how they defend but how good they are with the ball in the transition when they lead with the strikers. They have a really good process which starts with goalkeeper Andre Onana… so it makes our high pressing difficult.”

Guardiola added that Kyle Walker, who limped off the pitch in the 95th minute of City’s 2-1 win over arch-rivals Manchester United in the FA Cup final, is dealing with a back issue.

“Yesterday he was not good, today a bit better. We do not want to take risks so we will see,” Guardiola said.

Read Also: UCL Final: Sacchi warns Guardiola of ‘troublesome’ Inter

Not ready to let go of the Nigerian, Cremonese have placed a £7m price tag on Rangers target Cyriel Dessers.

According to Mail Sport, Dessers was on a list of strikers under consideration at Ibrox, alongside Atalanta’s Sam Lammers.

Rangers — who are poised to confirm the addition of goalkeeper Jack Butland — are understood to have made a significant opening offer.

However, Cremonese are currently seeking more than the near-£6m fee paid to Genk for the 28-year-old last summer.

It remains to be seen whether the Italian outfit will drop the asking price as they face up to the financial hit of relegation from Serie A. Dessers scored six goals in 26 top-flight appearances last season.

Capped four times by Nigeria, the forward was previously top scorer in the 2021-22 UEFA Conference League during a highly successful loan spell with Feyenoord.

He has also played for Lokeren in Belgium, as well as Dutch sides NAC Breda, FC Utrecht and Heracles.

Troyes striker Ike Ugbo is another name being monitored by the Ibrox club, who have already kicked off their summer rebuild with the signings of Kieran Dowell and Dujon Sterling.

Read Also: Rangers urged to resign Aribo from relegated Southampton

Paul Onuachu‘s decision to leave Genk and join Southampton in January has been criticised by Gent boss Hein Vanhaezebrouck.

Saints paid £18million to secure Onuachu’s services on the final day of the winter transfer window, with the club at bottom of the Premier League and desperate for a saviour to fire them out of trouble.

There was initial hope that Onuachu would be that figure, but after starting three of his first four games, the 6ft 7ins striker quickly fell out of favour, going on to start just one of the next 14 as Southampton were relegated.

He now faces a spell in the Championship as Saints bid to win automatic promotion back into the top-flight next season, with plenty of those involved in the game back in Belgium now questioning Onuachu’s initial decision to leave Genk, who were top of the Belgian Pro League when he departed.

“That was definitely not a good choice,” Gent manager Vanhaezebrouck told Het Laatste Nieuws.”You don’t go to the team that is last in the Premier League? With the risk of ending up in the Championship.”

Former Belgian international striker Marc Degryse agreed, adding: “Did Onuachu really think he was going to keep Southampton in the Premier League? And for what? 18 million euros? For a Premier League club, that’s just feeling in the pocket.”

“It turned out to be a bad choice for both the player and Genk,” said former Cercle Brugge midfielder Arnar Vidarsson.

“Now he has to play against defenders next season who like nothing more than to stand against that type of striker.”

Onuachu signed a three-and-a-half-year contract at St Mary’s upon his arrival and is unlikely to attract manor suitors during the summer transfer window, or least any that could offer Southampton a significant amount of the price they paid for him.

Read Also: Fenerbahce target Onuachu, others

• Organisers fix ₦1000, ₦2000 for tickets

Entertainment comes into the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Championship Play-off with musical performances by leading Nigerian artistes.

Organisers have so far offered the football fiesta free to fans who thronged the Mobolaji Johnson Arena. Tickets are to be introduced from Friday when the side musical shows will commence.

Nelson Ine, Executive Director at GTI Investment, financial investment Partners to the NPFL Interim Management Committee (IMC) explained that the musical variety is being introduced to add spice to the football thrills.

“On Friday, June 9, we will be having on the sideline stage, Mohbad, one of Nigeria’s established Afrobeat Hip Hop singers and on Sunday for the closing events, Brymo, another big name artiste will take to the stage

“We believe a mix of music and football is good for the building of the NPFL brand by tapping into the appeal of music to our huge youth population”, Ineh noted.

Entry to the VIP extension will now attract ₦2000 while the popular terraces will require ₦1000 access fee. The organisers said access to the VIP Box will be strictly by invitation as only those with the official access tags would be admitted.

The Championship Play-off continues today with fixtures between Remo Stars and Sunshine Stars, Enyimba and Bendel Insurance as well as Rivers United versus Lobi Stars.

Enyimba and Rivers United are tied at the top on four points after two games while Remo Stars and Bendel Insurance are also tied on two points with Sunshine Stars and Lobi Stars having a point each.

The Play-off will determine the winner of the NPFL 2022/23 season to present two teams for the CAF Champions League and the third placed team going for the CAF Confederation Cup.

Read Also: NPFL Super 6: Enyimba secure first as River s United, Insurance record draws