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Category: Sports

Seven iconic FIFA World Cup balls that made history

From the stitched leather of 1930 to today’s AI-designed marvels, FIFA World Cup balls have evolved with the sport itself — blending innovation, design, and culture to define each football era.

Here are seven of the most iconic match balls that shaped World Cup history:

1. Tiento & T-Model (1930)

The first World Cup in Uruguay had no official match ball. In the final, Argentina’s lighter Tiento was used in the first half, while Uruguay’s heavier T-Model replaced it in the second — a switch that helped Uruguay rally to a 4–2 victory. This moment set the tone for decades of innovation to come.

2. Adidas Telstar (1970)

Introduced for Mexico 1970, the Telstar changed everything. Its 32 black-and-white panels improved visibility on television and made it an instant classic. It also marked the beginning of Adidas’ enduring partnership with FIFA — and became the template for all modern footballs.

3. Adidas Tango España (1982)

An evolution of the 1978 Tango, the Tango España debuted in Spain and was the last fully leather ball used at a World Cup. Its waterproof coating and symmetrical design set new standards for durability, paving the way for the synthetic materials that followed.

4. Adidas Tricolore (1998)

For France 1998, the Tricolore became the first multi-colored World Cup ball. Its blue, white, and red graphics celebrated French national pride while introducing synthetic foam layers for improved touch and responsiveness. It was a visual and technical breakthrough for its time.

Read Also: 24th FIFA U20 World Cup: Flying Eagles go for broke against Saudi Arabia

5. Adidas Jabulani (2010)

Launched in South Africa, the Jabulani was engineered with only eight thermally bonded panels and marketed as the “roundest ball ever.” While its unpredictable flight drew goalkeeper complaints, it remains one of the most memorable — and debated — balls in World Cup history.

6. Adidas Brazuca (2014)

After the Jabulani controversy, Adidas redeemed itself with the Brazuca, tested by over 600 players worldwide. Its carnival-inspired design captured Brazil’s festive spirit, while its stable aerodynamics earned universal praise from players and fans alike.

7. Adidas Al Rihla (2022)

Meaning “The Journey” in Arabic, the Al Rihla symbolized innovation at Qatar 2022. It became the first World Cup ball designed with data-tracking technology, allowing referees and VAR to monitor every touch in real time — a landmark in football’s digital evolution.

October 4, 2025
EPL: Chelsea name strong line-up for Liverpool clash

Chelsea captain Reece James makes his long-awaited return to the starting XI and is expected to feature in midfield as the Blues host Liverpool at Stamford Bridge. Moises Caicedo retains his ever-present record in the Premier League this season, while Pedro Neto, Enzo Fernández, and Alejandro Garnacho also start.

João Pedro leads the line once again for Mauricio Pochettino’s side, while academy defender Landon Emenalo earns a place on the bench alongside Romeo Lavia, who continues his comeback from injury.

Chelsea Starting XI: Robert Sánchez; Malo Gusto, Bashiru Acheampong, Benoît Badiashile, Marc Cucurella; Reece James (c), Moisés Caicedo; Pedro Neto, Enzo Fernández, Alejandro Garnacho; João Pedro.

Read Also: EPL: Relief for Amorim as Man United beat Sunderland 2–0

Substitutes: Lucas Bergström Jorgensen, Gabriel Slonina, Jorrel Hato, Landon Emenalo, Romeo Lavia, Facundo Buonanotte, Jamie Gittens, Estevão Willian, Marc Guiu.

For Liverpool, Giorgi Mamardashvili starts in goal behind a backline of Conor Bradley, Ibrahima Konaté, Virgil van Dijk, and Milos Kerkez. The midfield trio consists of Ryan Gravenberch, Alexis Mac Allister, and Dominik Szoboszlai, while Mohamed Salah, Alexander Isak, and Cody Gakpo form the attacking trio.

Liverpool Starting XI: Giorgi Mamardashvili; Conor Bradley, Ibrahima Konaté, Virgil van Dijk, Milos Kerkez; Ryan Gravenberch, Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai; Mohamed Salah, Alexander Isak, Cody Gakpo.

Substitutes: Freddie Woodman, Jeremie Frimpong, Joe Gomez, Andrew Robertson, Wataru Endo, Florian Wirtz, Curtis Jones, Federico Chiesa, Hugo Ekitike.

October 4, 2025
EPL: Relief for Amorim as Man United beat Sunderland 2–0

Under-pressure Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim marked his 50th game in charge with a crucial victory over Sunderland at Old Trafford.

Mason Mount gave the hosts a perfect start with a well-taken goal after just eight minutes.

It was the earliest United had scored in the Premier League since Marcus Rashford’s second-minute effort at Ipswich in Amorim’s first game last November.

Benjamin Sesko doubled the home side’s lead with a close-range finish for his second goal in as many games while United’s first clean sheet of the season was Amorim’s reward for handing a debut to £18.1m goalkeeper Senne Lammens.

Read Also: EPL: Rice, Saka score as Arsenal go top with comfortable win over West Ham

Sunderland were awarded a penalty just before half-time but it was overturned after a video assistant refereee (VAR) check confirmed Sesko did not catch Trai Hume in the face with a high boot, as initially thought.

In a tenure littered with negative statistics, Amorim finally has some positive ones to look back on as United recorded a third-straight home win for the first time in over two years.

They have lost just once at home to Sunderland in 31 meetings and Amorim becomes the first United boss since Sir Alex Ferguson to win his 50th game at the helm.

It was enough for the home fans to go through a rendition of their catchy ‘Ruben Amorim’ tribute song which, amid such intense scrutiny over his longevity at Old Trafford, must at least have been some comfort for the Portuguese coach.

BBC Sports

October 4, 2025
EPL: Rice, Saka score as Arsenal go top with comfortable win over West Ham

Declan Rice scored his first goal of the season before Bukayo Saka added a second as Arsenal comfortably beat West Ham in manager Mikel Arteta’s 300th game in charge.

Arsenal have had an excellent start to the season losing just one game and Arteta looked to ensure that continued with his attacking selection.

The Arsenal manager named a midfield three of Rice, Martin Odegaard and Eberechi Eze as he utilised the options in his squad after a £250m spend in the summer.

However, that trio did not last long with Odegaard having to go off with an injury, the third Premier League home game in a row that he has been withdrawn early.

Rice was then pushed into a more advanced role as Martin Zubimendi was brought on and the former West Ham midfielder was on hand to finish smartly after Eze’s shot was pushed back into the area by Alphonse Areola.

Arsenal dominated the majority of the game with West Ham restricted to speculative efforts whenever they got the rare chance to attack.

The Gunners sealed the win in the second half when Jurrien Timber was brought down by El Hadji Malick Diouf and Saka slotted the penalty confidently into the corner.

It was a great way for Saka to mark his 200th Premier League appearance and means that his impressive record now stands at 55 goals and 45 assists.

The win moves Arsenal to the top of the Premier League, supplanting Liverpool prior to their match against Chelsea later on Saturday.

BBC Sports

October 4, 2025
EPL: Kudus scores as Tottenham end Leeds’ year-long unbeaten home run

Mohammed Kudus delivered a standout performance, scoring one goal and assisting another as Tottenham Hotspur handed Leeds United their first home league defeat in over a year at Elland Road.

Leeds had not lost at home since September 2024, when they fell to Burnley in the Championship. But on a rain-soaked afternoon in West Yorkshire, Kudus inspired Spurs to a crucial 2–1 victory that ended their brief winless run following two consecutive draws.

Mathys Tel opened the scoring for Tottenham with his first goal of the season, latching onto Kudus’ precise through ball before unleashing a stunning 20-yard strike that deflected off Pascal Struijk and wrong-footed goalkeeper Karl Darlow.

Read Also: EPL: Bournemouth fight back as Semenyo shines in 3–1 victory over Fulham

Leeds responded through Noah Okafor, who capitalised on a rebound after Guglielmo Vicario parried Brenden Aaronson’s shot, following strong buildup play from Dominic Calvert-Lewin.

However, Spurs quickly regained the lead when Kudus drifted across the top of the box and fired a low strike into the bottom corner, sealing the win for Ange Postecoglou’s side despite heavy rain and late Leeds pressure.

The result lifts Tottenham to second place in the Premier League, just one point behind leaders Liverpool ahead of the remaining weekend fixtures.

BBC Sports

October 4, 2025
Chelsea-Liverpool clash tops SuperSport EPL broadcast

The Premier League enters its seventh with the Chelsea and Liverpool clash the biggest fixture of the weekend’s action. All games will be broadcast live on SuperSport Premier League (GOtv Ch. 65, DStv Ch. 203).

The action kicks off today at 12:30 pm with Leeds United hosting Tottenham Hotspur. Spurs remain unbeaten and will be confident of extending their strong run, though Elland Road has often proven a tricky venue for visiting teams.

At 3:00 pm, Arsenal welcome West Ham United to the Emirates. The Gunners are chasing momentum in their title push and will see this as an opportunity to build on recent performances, while the Hammers hope to cause an upset. At the same time, Manchester United face Sunderland at Old Trafford. United will look to assert themselves against a side battling near the bottom of the table. Wolverhampton Wanderers also take on Brighton & Hove Albion in another 3:00 pm kick-off.

Read Also: Beulah takes free medical outreach to Ifako, Ogba communities

The standout match of the weekend follows at 5:30 pm, when Chelsea host Liverpool at Stamford Bridge. The Blues aim to steady their campaign after an inconsistent start, while Liverpool travel with attacking firepower but remain defensively vulnerable.

Tomorrow, Newcastle United welcome Nottingham Forest at 2:00 pm. Newcastle have struggled for consistency this season but will look to make home advantage count against a spirited Forest side.

Later at 4:30 pm, Brentford host champions Manchester City. Pep Guardiola’s men are strong favourites, especially after their ruthless display last weekend, though Brentford have previously proven capable of unsettling bigger opponents. Catch all the action live on SuperSport via GOtv and DStv.

October 4, 2025
GTI seeks investors’ partnership after successful NFF’s AGM

Strategic partners of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) on President Federation Cup, GTI Group, have congratulated the football ruling body in the country on their successful staging of its Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in the city of Ibadan last weekend.

GTI’s Head of Media and Publicity, Andrew Ekejiuba, in a statement commended the NFF Board for the successful outcome of the AGM and thumbed up its Board led by Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau for the successes achieved so far for football development in Nigeria.

He said: “GTI Group congratulates the Nigeria Football Federation on the successful outcome of its Annual General Meeting held in Ibadan, which the President of NFF, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, used the occasion to demonstrate his commitment to engaging positively with football stakeholders, including state football associations, clubs and fans. His interactions with the various groups at the AGM showcased his impactful leadership and dedication to promoting Nigerian football and fostering a collaborative environment.

Read Also: Beulah takes free medical outreach to Ifako, Ogba communities

“His tenure has also seen notable successes in Nigerian football, including the Super Falcons’ recent achievements and the positive growth of domestic competitions like the Nigeria Premier Football League, in which GTI Group is their strategic partner.

“Aside the aforementioned, GTI commends Governor Seyi Makinde and the good people of Oyo State for their hospitality and great support during the NFF AGM. His Excellency used the occasion to appreciate the improvement in the quality of officiating in the Nigeria Premier Football League ably led by Otunba Gbenga Elegbeleye.

“However, it is unfortunate that both Kwara United and Abia Warriors crashed out at the preliminary phase of the CAF Confederation Cup last weekend and this clearly shows that Nigerian clubs competing at the continental level should raise their game in order to compete favourably with better outcomes. The future is still bright for our clubs at the continental level and that is why GTI Group has been calling on Corporate Nigeria to invest more in our football as it is done in other thriving leagues elsewhere in the world.

“To Remo Stars and Rivers United, who are flying Nigeria’s flag currently at the preliminary stage of the CAF Champions League, we encourage them to dig deep and ensure they remain committed to having a successful campaign. They should endeavour to give our soccer fans something to cheer for this season because we understand the demands of competing for trophies at the continental level could be quite enormous,” Ekejiuba concluded.

October 4, 2025
Sabina lauds Tinubu, Okpebholo on sports dev’t

The Executive Director of Sports Development and Operations at the Edo State Sports Commission, Mrs Sabina Chikere, has commended the President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s effort towards transforming sports with the creation of the National Sports Commission, (NSC).

The top Edo State sports official, emphasized that the growth in Nigeria’s sporting firmament could not have been possible without the Renewed Hope agenda of the President, adding that the leadership of the NSC under Mallam Shehu Dikko and Director General, Honourable Bukola Olopade, has helped in accelerating process.

Mrs. Chikere also commended on President Tinubu, on the creation of the National Institute for Sports, (NIS), led by the former Deputy Governor of Edo State, Director General, Comrade Philip Shaibu.

“The appointment of the former deputy governor Comrade Philip Shaibu as the Director General of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), is another master stroke by Mr. President. As you know, the NIS is embarking on training the trainers who in turn will train our future world champions,”[i] she said in an interview with First ZealMediaCast Blog.

Mrs. Sabina Chikere, strongly believes that this move by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the drive by the NIS Director General will help the sports economy of Nigeria to blossom.

Read Also: Beulah takes free medical outreach to Ifako, Ogba communities

She further explained that the reward system put together by President Tinubu for outstanding athletes who bring laurels to the country has been a major boost for Nigeria athletes, adding the nation’s foremost citizen must intensify in his efforts to take sports to greater heights.

Meanwhile, Mrs. Chikere is also full of praises Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo, for his unfaltering and unending support towards development in the state.

She stressed that since the assumption of office by Governor Okpebholo, the Edo State Sports Commission under Honourable Amadin Enabulele, has been fully funded.

Mrs. Chikere went on to highlight the strong bond in the State’s sports Commission, stating that it’s the reason behind the successful administration of sports in the ‘Heartbeat of the Nation’ as Edo is fondly called.

She listed some key sporting development already put in place by Govern Okpebholo which includes: setting up of the Sports Association board ;funding of the National Sports Festival and National Youth Games as well as the plans to establish a mini stadium in all 18 Local Government Areas.

October 4, 2025
Enyimba, Rivers United set for unbeaten Showdown in Aba

There will be supremacy at stake in Aba this weekend as two unbeaten giants, Enyimba and Rivers United, lock horns in the headline fixture of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Matchday 7. With nine other matches across the country promising thrills, the stage is set for another pulsating round of fixtures writes TUNDE LIADI.

The clash of champions between Enyimba and Rivers United will hold at the Enyimba International Stadium tomorrow. Both sides have won the league within the last three seasons—Enyimba clinching their ninth crown in 2022–23 and Rivers United securing their historic first in 2021–22.

Adding extra spice to the encounter is the fact that both clubs have swapped coaches in recent times. Stanley Eguma, who delivered the league title to Pride of Rivers, now guides the People’s Elephant, while Rivers United parade Finidi George and Yemi Olanrewaju, the brains behind Enyimba’s last championship run.

Enyimba, currently second with 12 points from six games, boast the distinction of being the only team to have played all their fixtures and remain unbeaten. Rivers United, with a game in hand, are also undefeated. Last season, Enyimba edged Rivers United 1-0 in Aba, but the Pride of Rivers have enjoyed their fair share of success at the venue in recent years, including a famous 1-0 win three seasons ago. One record must fall: who blinks first in this battle of the unbeaten?

Elsewhere, two fixtures light up today. In Benin, Bendel Insurance seek redemption against in-form Nasarawa United, while El Kanemi Warriors host Kano Pillars in Maiduguri. Insurance have been shaky at home, dropping points in two of three games, while their visitors have gone five matches without defeat. Pillars, struggling in 19th with two games in hand, desperately need a lift under General Manager Ahmed Musa.

Tomorrow’s fixtures bring more intrigues. Rangers International host Katsina United in Enugu after earning a hard-fought draw away to Wikki Tourists last weekend. In Ilorin, Kwara United play before their fans for the second time in three days, this time against Abia Warriors, with both teams fresh from continental exits.

Shooting Stars, resurgent after back-to-back wins, welcome Plateau United in Ibadan, while Barau FC aim to build on their first-ever NPFL win when they entertain Warri Wolves in Kano.

Read Also: Beulah takes free medical outreach to Ifako, Ogba communities

Niger Tornadoes, perfect at home so far, face Kun Khalifat FC in Minna, while Bayelsa United, struggling after three straight defeats must find answers when they host Ikorodu City in Yenagoa with only three points the remedy to placate disgruntled fans.

Champions Remo Stars round off the weekend in Abeokuta on Monday against Wikki Tourists, hoping to The NPFL weekend is loaded with narratives: unbeaten runs at stake, coaches under pressure, and teams fighting to climb the table. All eyes, however, will be fixed on Aba, where pride, history, and points are on the line.

NPFL MATCHDAY 7 FIXTURES

Insurance vs. Nasarawa United

El Kanemi Warriors vs. Kano Pillars

Rangers International vs. Katsina United

Kwara United vs. Abia Warriors

Shooting Stars vs. Plateau United

Barau vs. Warri Wolves

Niger Tornadoes vs. Kun Khalifat

Enyimba vs. Rivers United

Bayelsa United vs. Ikorodu City

Remo Stars vs. Wikki Tourists

October 4, 2025
Things to know as Chelsea take on Liverpool at Stamford Bridge

Chelsea vs Liverpool takes centre stage in the Premier League on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at Stamford Bridge, as both clubs look to return to winning ways following recent setbacks.

The Blues are desperate to rebuild momentum after inconsistent results under Enzo Maresca, while Arne Slot’s Reds, currently top of the table, are eager to avoid a third straight defeat for the first time in the Dutchman’s reign.

Teams’ Form and Recent Performances
Chelsea
Following a promising start to the 2025/26 Premier League season where they won two of their first three games which put them second on the league table, the Blues are currently struggling for form as they have won just two of their last six matches in all competitions. But Chelsea vs Liverpool in a fixture that Stamford Bridge fans want their team to make bold statement and get back to winning ways.

A draw with Brentford at the G-tech Community Stadium was followed with back-to-back defeats to Bayern Munich and Manchester United before they claimed a win against League One side, Lincoln City, in the third round of the Carabao Cup.

Enzo Maresca’s side suffered another defeat, this time in the league against Brighton and Hove Albion before securing a 1-0 victory over Jose Mourinho’s Benfica in the Champions League on Tuesday.

The Club World Cup winners are presently placed 8th in the league standings.

Liverpool
Though currently top of the log, the Reds are without troubles of their own.

After winning all of their first seven matches across all competitions, Arne Slot’s side are winless in their last two after suffering a defeat to league flyers Crystal Palace before Galatasaray, inspired by Nigeria international Victor Osimhen condemned them to yet another loss in the Champions League.

This is the first time Liverpool will suffer two consecutive defeats since Slot succeeded the charismatic Jurgen Klopp as the Reds boss.

With Chelsea vs Liverpool up next, the Dutchman will be looking to avoid another defeat which won’t only dent his impressive record so far, but could also dislodge them as the league leaders.

Chelsea vs Liverpool: Head-To-Head Record
Chelsea and Liverpool have met 197 times across all competitions with the Reds winning the most with 86 victories to the Blues’ 65 while 46 matches have ended in draws.

The defending Premier League champions also hold an impressive record against the west Londoners as they have suffered just three defeats in their last 19 meetings. Liverpool defeated Chelsea in each of the four finals they met within that period.

The last game between these two sides saw Maresca’s team record a 3-1 win at the Bridge which boosted their chances of making the top four at the end of season. The Reds had almost nothing to play for in the encounter as they already had the league title sewn up just before the clash.

Key Players To Watch In Chelsea vs Liverpool
Chelsea
Joao Pedro
Pedro is a player Liverpool need to watch out for ahead of this Chelsea vs Liverpool matchup. The Brazilian is a prolific goal scorer who can operate from a central role or drift wider, utilizing his quick movement and dribbling ability.

Although, the 24-year-old is yet to score or provide an assist in the games he has played against the Reds, his five goal contributions this season is the highest among his teammates.

Read Also: Mourinho expects fans’ respect as Benfica battle Chelsea in London

Enzo Fernandez
In the absence of Cole Palmer, Enzo has assumed the role of a playmaker from a deeper position. The midfielder has been able to influence play with his excellent passing range and ability to resist press while also disrupting opposition attacks and protecting space ahead of the defence.

The Argentina international also has eyes for goals as he already netted three and provided an assist so far.

Liverpool
Hugo Ekitike
Ekitike is arguably Liverpool’s best performer since his high-profile move from Eintracht Frankfurt. The France international has netted five goals in all competitions which is the highest for the Reds.

Ekitike’s off the ball movement, link-up play and ability to drop deep have also been instrumental for Liverpool this season.

Ryan Gravenberch
Gravenberch is a deep-lying playmaker, who is known for his technicality and agility to drift past opponents with smooth dribbling, deft passing and the willingness to progress the ball up the pitch.

The Dutchman has shown his ability to create from deep as he has two goals and as many assists to his name this campaign.

Team News: Chelsea vs Liverpool
Chelsea
Cole Palmer is out of this massively anticipated Chelsea Vs Liverpool due to a lingering groin issue which has effectively ruled him out of Chelsea’s last three matches.

Andre Santos and Tosin Adarabioyo are expected to miss this game as Maresca previously stated the duo won’t be back until after the international break.

Wesley Fofana is not available to play against Liverpool as he is recovering from concussion he sustained in the Carabao Cup win over Lincoln City.

The Blues will be without Trevoh Chalobah following his dismissal against Brighton.

Romeo Lavia is back in contention after fully recovering from a muscle injury.

Liam Delap, Levi Colwill and Dario Essugo are long-term absentees and therefore won’t feature in this mouthwatering Chelsea vs Liverpool.

Liverpool
Alisson Becker is not expected to be in goal Chelsea vs Liverpool following an injury in their loss to Galatasaray in the Champions League.

Ekitike is a doubt after also being forced off on Tuesday night. Slot is expected to provide an update on the Frenchman in his pre-match press conference on Friday.

Following his inability to travel with the team to Turkey, Federico Chiesa is also a doubt for this clash after suffering a knock in the Reds’ 2-1 defeat to Crystal Palace.

Summer signing, Giovanni Leoni is effectively out of the trip to London following an ACL rupture. The young Italian has successfully undergone surgery and will start his road to recovery.

Chelsea vs Liverpool: Possible Starting Line-ups
Chelsea (4-2-3-1):
Sanchez; James, Badiashile, Acheampong, Cucurella; Caicedo Enzo; Estevao, Buonanotte, Neto; Pedro

Liverpool (4-2-3-1):
Mamardashvili; Bradley, Konate, Van Dijk, Robertson, Gravenberch, Jones; Salah, Szoboszlai, Gakpo; Isak

October 4, 2025