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Tag: LaLiga

  • Spain on fire for LaLiga HyperMotion Playoffs 

    Spain on fire for LaLiga HyperMotion Playoffs 

    While  attention is squarely  focused on tomorrow’s UEFA Nations League Final duel  between Spain and Portugal in Munich, there is the  small matter  of  LaLiga HyperMotion playoffs  to determine the third team  to gain promotion  to LaLiga EA Sports for next season amongst  four determined teams including  Real Oviedo, Club Deportivo Mirandés,  Real Racing Club de Santander and Unión Deportiva Almería. In a LaLiga virtual  rendezvous   with some select  journalists, the trio of  Alemão (Real Oviedo), Victor Meseguer (Real Racing Club) and Joaquín Panichelli (Club Deportivo Mirandés) fielded questions about their  expectations in the contest which begins  tomorrow, reports  MORAKINYO ABODUNRIN .

    For many discerning  football followers,  the LaLiga 2 officially known as LaLiga HyperMotion, is a theatre  of intense competition for obvious reasons. Contested by 22 teams, only  the top two teams plus the winner of a play-off promoted are guaranteed  promotion to the  LaLiga EA Sports.

    In this 2024/25 season and  after a round of 462 matches, Levante ran away with the title  and were joined  by  Elche for the automatic two promotion tickets to the LaLiga EA Sports.

    With a promotion ticket to the LaLiga EA Sports said to  worth as much as 50 million Euros, the battle for the  remaining third  ticket in the LaLiga 2  amongst Real Oviedo, Club Deportivo Mirandés,  Real Racing Club de Santander and Unión Deportiva Almería  would be intense indeed as the quartet  fight it out over the next three weeks.

     “We saw a lot of joy in the city after this qualification for the playoffs,” the hard-fighting  Racing Club’s midfielder, Victor  Meseguer who  featured in 18  Segunda Division matches  for his side,  said. “But we don’t have to think much about that much now.

    “We need to be focused in the club and outside for this playoffs, and that’s what we are going to do.”

     Same  sentiment was  equally shared by  Argentine ‘matador’ Joaquin Panichelli who had an  impressive 20 goals  plus four assists  in 40 matches  during the  regular  season and he enthused that  followers of CD Mirandes are looking forward  to the playoffs with bated breath.

     “Well, I think we can feel it (the quest for promotion to LaLiga) in the whole city during the whole competition not only ahead of  the play-off and  I think it’s something very beautiful for the city,” Panichelli, a loanee from Deportivo Alavés, was forthcoming. “We’re conscious that to be  in the play-off, is very important for this city and for this club and they’re all very excited.

    “So we want to have this prize (third thicket to LaLiga EA Sports).

    “We wanted this prize to finish in the first two place but it couldn’t be. So now,  we have to fight in the playoffs and we’re looking forward for these games, obviously.”

    For the contenders, preparation for this LaLiga HyperMotion playoffs is not like a tea party and Panichelli believes  CD Mirandes  are now at the ready starting with their opening  home match tomorrow (June  8) against Racing Club.   

    He volunteered: “ Here  in Mirandes during the whole season, or even for the four teams here, we had a bit of similar moments during the whole season. We tried to maintain the top of the table. We were really high on the table during  the whole season and we had very important games and we always try to win and have points or take points from these games.

    “So, I think now it’s going to be a little bit of the same. You know, when we have an important game during the season, we have to focus 90 minutes per game. We are going to have the same spirit like  when we played big games during the season and try to bring something positive,  of course.”

    For Meseguer who had previously enjoyed  the ambiance of LaLiga EA Sports  with Real Valladolid  before coming on loan to  Racing Club, no quarter  would be asked and nor given, adding he and his teammates would have to hold their nerves over the next two weeks.

     “ I think it’s normal for us to be nervous all the time,  you know all players have nerves before going in on the pitch,” the 25-year-old midfielder  noted. “I think it’s even a good thing for us because you’re more focused, more prepared for these big games.”

    Ahead of the  contests, Panichelli agreed that all the four teams  must deal  with the pressure with only a single ticket on offer to the LaLiga EA Sports.

    “ I think to get the promotion ticket is very important, not only for me  but for the whole city, the whole club,” the former River Plate forward  explained.  “But for me personally and for my teammates, we try not to have this pressure on us.

    Read Also: African stars  to vie for  Sporty LaLiga MVP Awards

    “We just want to enjoy the games. That’s what we work for. And that’s how we enjoy these games. We did  that during the whole season and we want to compete,” he said as he reaffirmed  his objective for making the switch to CD Mirandés. 

    “That’s how we enjoy football. So we have to give everything on each ball during the game, defensively and offensively too, attacking. And we need to, you know, we try to help everybody during the whole season. We have a team that try to go until the end.

    “We have young players, we have even players on loan from other clubs, that’s my case. But we are always giving everything and we, because we feel like, you know, we belong here. And I think it’s something very important too. That’s our job.

     “What  we have to do there is give everything and  that’s what we’re going to do obviously from  this weekend.”

    He continued: “As I said before, this year. I have a big role in the team. I had a different season last year with  Alaves. That’s why I came here. I wanted something different as a player. I wanted to play regularly and because I couldn’t be last season. So now this season it’s happening.

    “I’m a very different player now and thanks to Alessio and his staff. They helped me from the first moment and that’s why I want to give them back to you, to them, every game.”

    REAL OVIEDO – EIBAR

    The LaLiga HyperMotion Playoffs  kicks off  tomorrow with the first semi-finals  between Oviedo  and Almeria  while Racing will host Mirandes in the other fixture – with the reverse  coming up on Wednesday, June 11. The aggregate winner over the two legs would be set for the  first leg of the promotion playoffs final on June 15 while the  second leg  would take place on June 21.

     To lead Real Oviedo’s challenge  from this weekend’s fixture against Almeria would be Alexandre Zurawski, the Polish-Brazilian  simply  known as Alemão.

    The free scoring striker  reckoned  that  The Blues (Los Azules) would be  up and running when  the confrontations begin in the LaLiga Hypermotion playoffs.

    “I wasn’t get  enough playing time  during my time Internacional, (Inter de Porto Alegre) and I then went to  C.F. Pachuca in Mexico and  they gave me the opportunity to come to Real Oviedo,” the 27-year-old forward who had four assists and 14 goals  in the regular season,   responded to the NationSport question.“ I’m happy to be here  because Real Oviedo  has a  new project  to be promoted to La Liga.

     “ The competition in the LaLiga second division  is really high level  and we have to really work hard to get to this playoffs.

    “ Personally, I want to keep growing in every aspect of my game as a football player and I know with Real Oviedo, our priority is  to get promotion to the La Liga EA Sports.

    “Presently, I’m very far to be in the Brazilian national team. I need to keep working a lot and try to show my best on the pitch, to be on my best level and maybe if I reach this elite football, I can have an opportunity to be called by the national team, which would be very  amazing for someone from that country,” he added.

  • From glory to survival: Nigerian players face pivotal battles today

    From glory to survival: Nigerian players face pivotal battles today

    Nigerian players will take center stage across major European and local leagues today (Sunday), as seven high-stakes fixtures unfold. 

    With title dreams, European ambitions, and survival hopes hanging in the balance, these stars are poised to play decisive roles in shaping the outcomes of their clubs’ seasons.

    Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL)

    Rivers United vs Remo Stars

    The Nigeria Premier Football League title race could reach a critical turning point this weekend, as second-placed Rivers United welcome table-toppers Remo Stars to Port Harcourt in a high-stakes showdown.

    With only seven matches left after this round, Remo Stars sit firmly in the driver’s seat—boasting an eight-point lead and a game in hand over their nearest rivals. The pressure is mounting for Rivers United, who know that anything less than a win could effectively hand the title to the visitors.

    Captain Temple Emekayi has rallied his side ahead of the clash, calling on his teammates to shake off recent setbacks and rise to the occasion in what could be their last chance to keep their title hopes alive.

    Rivers United aim to bounce back from back-to-back losses—falling 1-0 to Bayelsa United in the league and suffering a 2-1 cup upset to Beyond Limits FA. Victory would trim Remo Stars’ lead to five points and reignite the title race, but defeat could all but crown the Ikenne giants champions.

    ENGLAND

    Fulham vs Liverpool (Iwobi, Bassey)

    Alex Iwobi has more than Fulham pride on the line when Liverpool visit Craven Cottage on Sunday. The Nigerian midfielder, along with compatriot Calvin Bassey, will be crucial as Fulham aim to stall the league leaders—and possibly hand Iwobi’s former club Arsenal a lifeline in the title race.

    Liverpool sit atop the Premier League with 73 points from 30 games, eyeing a first title since 2020. Iwobi, Fulham’s creative engine with seven goals and three assists this season, could play spoiler. He leads Europe’s top five leagues in progressive carries into the final third and has had a hand in 28% of Fulham’s goals.

    Bassey, rested midweek, is expected to return at the back as Fulham gear up for one of their toughest tests of the season.

    Tottenham vs Southampton (Aribo, Onuachu)

    Joe Aribo and Paul Onuachu could be involved in a must-win clash that may seal Southampton’s Premier League relegation at Tottenham on Saturday.

    Rooted to the bottom with just 10 points, the Saints will go down if they lose and Wolves beat Ipswich. Aribo is tipped to start as the club fights to delay the drop, while Onuachu—four goals in 20 games—may come off the bench.

    For Spurs, it’s a chance to bounce back from their loss to Chelsea, with rotation expected ahead of Thursday’s Europa League quarter-final.

    SPAIN

    Sevilla vs Atletico Madrid (Ejuke, Adams)

    Nigerian duo Chidera Ejuke and Akor Adams will aim to leave their mark as Sevilla take on Atletico Madrid at the Estadio Ramon.

    Adams, recently back from injury, is still chasing his first goal for the club after just two appearances, while Ejuke—two goals and an assist in 19 outings—remains a key attacking threat.

    Sevilla, sitting 11th in La Liga, are desperate to snap a two-game losing streak. Atletico, winless since early March, need all three points to stay in the Champions League race as their title hopes fade.

    ITALY

    Atalanta vs Lazio (Lookman vs Dele-Bashiru)

    Ademola Lookman’s Atalanta host Fisayo Dele-Bashiru’s Lazio in a key Serie A clash on Sunday, with both Nigerians battling to revive their Champions League hopes.

    Neither team has won in their last two matches—Atalanta are scoreless in their last two, while Lazio have just one win from their last six. In their previous meeting, Dele-Bashiru scored a stunning goal and Lookman assisted Atalanta’s equalizer in a 1-1 draw.

    Lazio’s Marco Baroni has urged Dele-Bashiru to sharpen his play in the final third, while Lookman will be keen to end his goal drought after a strong start to the season.

    Read Also: Bendel Insurance coach, Ikhenoba salutes players after convincing win

    PORTUGAL

    Porto vs Benfica (Zaidu Sanusi)

    Zaidu Sanusi could play a part in Portugal’s biggest derby as Porto host title-chasing Benfica at the Estadio do Dragao on Sunday.

    The Super Eagles left-back has seen limited action this season, recovering from a serious ACL injury. Porto, third in the Primeira Liga, are nine points behind Benfica, who are locked in a tight title race with Sporting Lisbon. A win would boost Porto’s Champions League hopes and reignite their title challenge.

    Porto were thrashed 4-1 in their last meeting with Benfica but will be buoyed by their 5-0 victory over them at home earlier this season.

    TURKEY

    Fenerbahce vs Trabzonspor (Bright Osayi-Samuel)

    Bright Osayi-Samuel could start as Fenerbahce take on Trabzonspor in one of Turkish football’s fiercest rivalries.

    The Nigerian defender, whose contract expires this season, has been linked with a return to England, with Crystal Palace and Nottingham Forest reportedly interested. Fenerbahce, six points behind Galatasaray, will need a win to keep their title hopes alive.

    Osayi-Samuel has been a standout for Fenerbahce, following a controversial incident last March with Trabzonspor, which saw him involved in a post-match altercation. The Turkish FA cleared him of any wrongdoing.

    Trabzonspor, under new manager Fatih Tekke, are aiming to extend their strong form after a win and a draw in his first two matches.

  • LaLiga and EA Sports launch the fourth VS RACISM campaign

    LaLiga and EA Sports launch the fourth VS RACISM campaign

    The campaign features a message of unity and inclusion at its core, promoting an environment free of discrimination and attacks based on race or origin.

    LaLiga, in partnership with EA Sports FC, is launching the fourth consecutive edition of its VS RACISM campaign to mark International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination on March 21.

    Through his artwork ‘Melting Pot of Cultures,’ urban artist SUSO33 showcases how football and urban art are universal languages that transcend borders, break barriers, and foster dialogue and respect among different cultures.

    This year marks the fourth edition of the VS RACISM campaign, following on from the previous Unity VS Racism, Together VS Racism and #1voiceVSRACISM campaigns. In addition to bringing back the anthem that gave voice to last year’s campaign, 2025 sees LaLiga and EA Sports FC collaborating with urban artist SUSO33, who merges urban art and football to reflect the diversity and cultural richness they both represent. VS RACISM is another step in ‘Transforming the Game’, the shared vision of both organisations to shape the future of football and to move towards a football capable of creating a positive impact on society.

    Jorge de la Vega, Executive Director of LaLiga, said: “Racism has no place in football or our society. At LaLiga, we continue working year after year to eradicate all forms of hatred, promoting values of respect, diversity, and inclusion. Sport should be a reflection of unity and coexistence among cultures.”

    Read Also: NSC, NFF meet  on  proposed  Abuja hotel, training pitch site

    To bring this campaign to life with art as a key pillar, Madrid-based artist SUSO33 has adapted his piece ‘Melting Pot of Cultures.’ In a world in which identities evolve through interaction and exchange, football and art share a common language: they transcend borders, recognising creativity, talent and passion. SUSO33’s human-cantered art is the backbone of the campaign, conveying an essential message of awareness and education against racism. This sentiment is reflected daily across LaLiga, where players of different races and nationalities from all over the world coexist on the pitch, showcasing how diversity is one of sport’s greatest strengths.

    Furthermore, in July 2024, the Community of Madrid announced the inclusion of urban art in its inventory of Intangible Cultural Heritage, with SUSO33 among the selected artists receiving official recognition and protection.

    A 360-degree campaign will be launched across March, featuring many leading figures from the sports industry and a series of initiatives to reinforce its messaging

  • EA Sport, LaLiga launch ‘Next Gen Draft’ for talent discovery

    EA Sport, LaLiga launch ‘Next Gen Draft’ for talent discovery

    LaLiga and EA Sports has  launched  ‘Next Gen Draft’, a project within the framework of the EA Sports FC Futures social impact programme,  is designed to discover and develop young football talent around the world while fostering community engagement through the values of football.

     Next Gen Draft will begin with more than 1,000 children in five countries across three continents and will conclude with 40 selected children, who will travel to Spain for a training camp with LaLiga and its clubs.

    Jorge de la Vega, LaLiga’s Executive Director, stated: “We’re very excited about this project. It’s a programme that allows us to reach thousands of children, train them and continue helping them to enjoy football. EA Sports FC Futures is particularly important to us, because it helps us build the football we want for tomorrow, today.”

    Read Also: NFF set to organize  CAF B-License Coaching Course

     “We’ve had the privilege of working on some fantastic community projects with LaLiga and FC Futures over the past few years, from pitch refurbishments to scholarship programmes: all with the goal of creating a positive impact and growing the sport.” said James Salmon, Senior Director, Franchise Activation, EA Sports FC. “Looking forward, it’s incredibly exciting to now be involved in talent discovery within community football and contributing to the development of the next generation of football stars.”

    Over the next few months, EA Sports FC Futures will visit Rustenberg (South Africa, March 1-2); New York (USA, March 8-9); Dubai (UAE, March 27-28), Guatemala City (Guatemala, April 5-6) and Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam, April 11-13). At each stop, approximately 300 children will compete to advance through the various project phases and become one of only eight finalists (four boys and four girls) from each location who will travel to Spain at the beginning of June.

    The selection process will include the following stages:

    *Rush Tournament: Some 200 boys and girls kick off the initial phase of the competition by playing football in a tournament using the innovative 5v5 Rush mode, with two 7-minute halves. Members of the winning teams and the 20 best players chosen by LaLiga experts and coaches will advance to the next phase.

    * FC Futures Academy Session: The youngsters will have to undergo training with UEFA PRO-licensed L LaLiga coaches under the FC Futures Academy methodology. Each practice was carefully designed using in-game footage from FC 25 in combination with expert coaching insights,  effectively merging physical and digital football. This innovative approach creates an engaging and enhanced training experience for young players. The 32 best (16 boys and 16 girls) will advance to the next phase.

    * LaLiga Final Match: In this phase, the youngsters will play a full football match against a local team, which, in some cases, will be a LaLiga Academy squad from that region. After this match, the four best boys and four best girls will be selected to experience a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity with LaLiga in Spain. This final selection won’t just be based on sporting grounds, but also on psycho-emotional criteria, where values such as commitment, solidarity, and effort will play an important role.

    * LaLiga Experience in Spain: This final phase of the programme will take place in Spain. The selected players will participate in training sessions developed under the LaLiga A Academy methodology, will play matches against youth teams from LaLiga clubs, and will receive training and guidance from experts from the football industry.

    *FC Futures is EA Sports’ long-term initiative to invest in community-level football on a global scale. As well as investing in 15+ partner programmes, donating playing equipment in 10+ countries, they launched FC Futures Academy, a free-to-access, online library of training drills for coaches to use in their everyday training.

    * FC Futures also invests in refurbishing pitches in disadvantaged areas to drive participation in football, creating safe spaces for local young people to access the game. Last year, five projects developed by EA SPORTS and LALIGA were presented in five cities: Malaga and Madrid (Spain), Cape Town (South Africa), Cheng San-Seletar (Singapore) and Guadalajara (Mexico). Community fields were remodelled in these spaces, promoting the practice of soccer in the area among young people and revitalizing the area.

  • LaLiga extends pact with Japan’s WE League, Nadeshiko League

    LaLiga extends pact with Japan’s WE League, Nadeshiko League

     LaLiga, the Japan Women’s Empowerment Professional Football League (WE League) and the Japan Women’s Football League (Nadeshiko League) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) formalizing the existing collaboration between the organisations which has been on-going throughout 2024.

    The scope of the MOU, which extends until December 2026, focuses primarily on working together to foster the sustainable growth of women’s football in both Japan and Spain through the sharing of information and best practices, as well as collaborating in areas of technical, financial and institutional development.

    Building on the strong existing relationship between the three organisations, the agreement will see LaLiga, the WE League and the Nadeshiko League organise joint workshops and collaborate on consulting projects covering areas such as league and club management, commercial and broadcasting development, the professionalization of competitions, financial sustainability, the internationalization of women’s football, digital content creation, and boosting grassroots football, among others.

    The framework of the MOU will also extend to organising friendly matches and tournaments at both professional and grassroots levels, boosting the presence of women in coaching programmes, as well as the development of CSR plans promoting gender equality and the integration of girls and women in society through football.

    Read Also: LaLiga best attack faces most in-form team

    Guillermo Pérez, delegate of LaLiga in Japan, said: “We are delighted to sign this MOU with the Japan Women’s Empowerment Professional Football League and the Japan Women’s Football League, formalising the great work we’ve been doing together for some time now. Working together and sharing knowledge and perspective is the key to unleashing the true potential of women’s football, not just in Japan and Spain but around the world, and we are confident that this agreement is a big step in that direction”

    Ken  Adachi, General Secretary of the WE League, said:  “We are excited to have signed a MOU with the LaLiga. This agreement will strengthen the connection between Spanish and Japanese football and create new opportunities.”

     By sharing knowledge and working together, we aim to help both sides grow, unlock the full potential of women’s football, and take it to the next level. We believe this partnership is a key step toward a brighter future.”

    Junko Egawa, General Secretary of Women’s Football League, the Nadeshiko League, said “As the highest-level amateur women’s football league in Japan, we have re-signed agreements with LaLiga and the WE League. To further grow women’s football in Japan as a whole, it is very meaningful to join this agreement with Spain, a leader in European women’s football, together with the WE League  a professional women’s league, and we believe this will lead to high-quality exchanges. The Nadeshiko League is made up of 24 teams from all over Japan, and each team also plays an important role in broadening the base of women’s football in their own region. We would like everyone to keep an eye on the Nadeshiko League as it continues to add depth to women’s football in Japan.”

    LaLiga has long been committed to growing football across the board in Japan. Since opening a delegation in the country in 2017, LaLiga has worked closely with the WE League and the Nadeshiko League and with other entities.

    LaLiga  is the largest football ecosystem in the world. It is a private sports association composed of the 20 public limited sports companies (SADs) and clubs of LaLiga EA SPORTS and the 22 of LaLiga Hypermotion, and is responsible for organising professional football competitions in Spain. LaLiga has over 247 million followers globally across social networks, on 16 platforms and in 20 different languages. With its headquarters in Madrid (Spain) it has the most extensive international network of any sports property and is present in 38 countries through 10 offices. The organisation carries out its social work through its Foundation and was the world’s first professional football league to establish a league for intellectually challenged footballers: LaLiga Genuine.

    The WE League (Women Empowerment League) is Japan’s first professional women’s football league, established with the mission to promote gender equality, diversity, and inclusion through sport. Launched in 2021, the league consists of 12 clubs and aims to empower women on and off the pitch by creating a platform for athletes to shine and inspiring future generations. By fostering a sustainable environment for women’s football, the WE League strives to elevate the sport to new heights while contributing to the advancement of society as a whole.

    The Nadeshiko League  (Japan Women’s Football League) is a premier women’s football league in Japan, dedicated to fostering the growth of female athletes and promoting the development of women’s football nationwide. Established in 1999, the league features top clubs from across the country and emphasizes community engagement to spread football culture and contribute to local communities. As a vital foundation for nurturing future Nadeshiko Japan  players, the league plays a key role in supporting and advancing women’s football.

  • LaLiga EA Sports:

    LaLiga EA Sports:

    Matchday 20 action begins with top three playing in Madrid

    The 2024/25 LaLiga EA Sports season is at the halfway stage, and it’s Atlético de Madrid who currently lead the way, holding a narrow one-point advantage over city rivals Real Madrid.

    This weekend, Diego Simeone’s charges will be on the road but still playing in the Spanish capital, as they’ll pay a visit to CD Leganés. That’s just one of the many games to look out for this weekend.

    The first fixture of Matchday 20 was last night’s duel between two sides currently in the relegation zone when RCD Espanyol hosted Real Valladolid. These two clubs came up from LaLiga Hypermotion last summer and plan to stay in the top tier, so this is a huge match as they fight to achieve that objective.

    Read Also: Iheanacho Leads LaLiga stars on international duties 

    Girona FC vs Sevilla FC is the first of four fixtures today, and the Catalan side arrive in good form. They’ve won five of their past eight league fixtures, including their past two, so they’ll hope to keep that momentum up against a team the

  • LaLiga boss faults Madrid no-show at Ballon d’Or

    LaLiga boss faults Madrid no-show at Ballon d’Or

    LaLiga president Javier Tebas has criticised Real Madrid for boycotting the Ballon d’Or ceremony in Paris on Monday.

    Los Blancos cancelled their planned trip to the French capital after finding out that Manchester City midfielder Rodri would be announced as the winner of the prestigious award ahead of Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior.

    Despite Vinicius missing out, Madrid were named as the best men’s club of the season and its manager Carlo Ancelotti won the award for the best coach.

    “I am a Real Madrid fan,” Tebas told L’Equipe. “The most important values of this club are being a gentleman and shaking hands when you lose. I think Real Madrid lost that spirit a long time ago. They should have gone to the ceremony and not questioned France Football’s system, which is transparent, with 100 journalists voting. Real’s victimhood is unnecessary and exaggerated.

    “I don’t know where they want to go.”

    Former Real Madrid star Karim Benzema, meanwhile, felt Madrid’s disappointment was justified as Vinicius was the best player last season.

    Vinicius scored 24 goals and provided 11 assists in all competitions last season for LaLiga champions Madrid, including his team’s second goal in their Champions League final win against Borussia Dortmund.

    “When Real Madrid were European champions last season, Vinicius was decisive in every game,” the 2022 Ballon d’Or winner Benzema told El Chiringuito. “I don’t think there is anyone else who deserves it more than him.

    Read Also: Guardiola defends Rodri’s Ballon d’Or choice

    “It’s a bit sad and I don’t feel good for Vinicius, who deserves the Ballon d’Or.”

    Benzema said Vinicius’ talent is more noticeable than that of Rodri.

    “I have nothing against Rodri, who is a good player,” he said. “But I’m on my couch, I watch television and Rodri doesn’t do things that make me say: ‘Pffff,’ and Vinicius has done that more than once.”

    Benzema, who now plays for Saudi Pro League Al Ittihad, is convinced the Brazilian forward will one day win the Ballon d’Or.

    “Yesterday I was talking to Vinicius, he is strong to work and one day he will have it [the Ballon d’Or],” he said. “He was sad. It’s normal. It’s a bit complicated when everyone sees you winning the Ballon d’Or and in the end, a day before or a few hours before they tell you that you’re not going to win it.

    “Vinicius is a good man, he will work and one day wins the Ballon d’Or.”

  • LALIGA in Africa names SportyBet  as official betting partner

    LALIGA in Africa names SportyBet  as official betting partner

    SportyBet and LaLiga have announced a significant multi-year partnership, designating SportyBet as the new “Official Betting Partner” of LaLiga across Africa.

    The agreement, effective from this season, positions SportyBet as the premier sports betting platform in the region, reinforcing its commitment to delivering top-tier football content to fans across the continent.

    The partnership will be inaugurated with a memorable launch event in Africa, featuring one of LaLiga’s most celebrated ambassadors—an internationally renowned football legend.

    The event will serve as a grand introduction to a collaboration that aims to transform the betting experience for millions of football fans throughout Africa.

    LALIGA boasts an impressive line-up of ambassadors, including legends such as Malian star Frédéric Kanouté, David Villa, Luis Figo, Samuel Eto’o, Carles Puyol, and Iker Casillas, among others.

    These icons will play a pivotal role in driving the partnership’s vision and reach.

    Through this collaboration, SportyBet plans to elevate LaLiga betting experiences by introducing cutting-edge features unique to the sports betting world.

    Fans can anticipate innovative, first-of-their-kind betting options that will revolutionize how they engage with the game, providing unparalleled levels of excitement and interaction.

    Read Also: StarTimes secures  LaLiga rights for Sub-Saharan Region

    As part of the partnership, SportyBet will receive extensive exposure during LaLiga  match broadcasts.

    Advertising billboards and cam carpets displaying the SportyBet brand will be prominently featured around the stadiums, particularly during matches where Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Atletico Madrid play as visiting teams.

    The significant presence is set to enhance SportyBet’s brand visibility within the global football landscape.

    SportyBet will also offer exclusive access to LaLiga  content, providing fans with richer and more immersive ways to experience the league through its platform and social media channels. With dynamic, enhanced features, users will be able to feel closer to the action than ever before.

    Moreover, SportyBet users will have the chance to participate in extraordinary, once-in-a-lifetime experiences. These unique opportunities could include VIP stadium tours, watching player warm-ups from the sidelines, taking photos with football legends, or even stepping onto the pitch to take a penalty after a match.

    These exclusive experiences aim to bring fans closer to the game they love.

    The partnership will see SportyBet and LaLiga  working together on various promotional activities across multiple African markets, further solidifying SportyBet’s influence and reach in the region.

    SportyBet has recently emerged as the most visited betting platform globally, a testament to its cutting-edge technology, competitive market odds, and the security and speed of its payment systems.

    The partnership with LaLiga not only strengthens SportyBet’s global presence but also underscores its dedication to offering fans an unparalleled sports betting experience.

    Elías Gallego, VP of Media, Marketing, and Business Development at SportyBet, commented on the partnership: “This partnership represents a powerful alignment between SportyBet’s leadership in the African market and LaLiga’s immense potential to grow its footprint across the continent. By leveraging our deep understanding of the African audience, we’re confident that together we can elevate the fan experience, fuel the passion for football, and drive unprecedented growth for LaLiga and SportyBet in this vibrant region.”

    Jorge de la Vega, Executive General Manager of LaLiga, added, “Partnering with SportyBet is an exciting milestone for LaLiga  as we continue to expand our global footprint, particularly in Africa. This collaboration not only brings LaLiga closer to millions of passionate football fans across the continent but also underscores our commitment to delivering world-class football experiences to diverse audiences. Together with SportyBet, we aim to create new opportunities for engagement, inspire the next generation of football enthusiasts, and celebrate the shared love of the beautiful game.”

  • LaLiga posts Euro 4.47b revenue

    LaLiga’s clubs have posted revenue of Euro 4..47 billion in the 2017/ 2018 season.

    The figure represents growth of 20.6 per cent over the previous season. With a solid, positive and growing set of results across the board, LaLiga has achieved the best figures in the competition’s history.

      The latest Financial Report of Spanish professional football, corresponding to the latest complete season of 2017/ 2018.

    This is the largest positive annual change in recent years and particularly notable given that it occurred following several financial years in which it has been consistently posting double-digit growth rates and in which, furthermore, we are at the midway point of the three-year audiovisual cycle for the national market (and, by extension without coinciding with sudden increases in level or discontinuities).

    LaLiga’s gross operating profit was Euro 945 million, operating profit was Euro 325 million, and the net profit for the year was Euro 189 million. In short, LaLiga produced a solid, positive and growing set of results across the board, achieving the best figures in the competition’s history.

    The 2017/18 season was surprising due to two new drivers of LaLiga’s growth breaking onto the scene: commercial revenue and revenue from transfers, which have seized the central role held by broadcasting revenues as drivers of annual growth.

    Meanwhile, in the case of revenue from player transfers, the annual increase of 104.3 per ent permitted turnover from this item to double in a single year, with an exceptional entry of Euro 1.018 billion, which is symptomatic of the significant capacity for creating sporting value held by the Spanish clubs and SADs.

    LaLiga earmarks around two per cent of its turnover for corporate social responsibility projects, an amount which is significantly greater than the majority of companies and industries of a similar nature. This allows for the development of the pioneering initiatives mentioned in the report which give us hope and stimulate us, and of which we feel proud.

    Furthermore, LaLiga’s clubs create a professional football industry which produces an impact on national GDP equivalent to 1.37 per cent and which directly or indirectly employs around 185,000 people. To this we must also add the over €4 billion which it contributes to the state coffers in the form of taxes.

  • Why Laliga Derbies are Bigger than El-Clasico – Laliga MD

    Laliga derbies are action packed matches that give football fans great excitements that worth every bit of time and star studded like El-Clasico.

    Though the most watched LaLiga match among football fans in Nigeria is undoubtedly Barcelona vs Real Madrid fixtures, obviously because of the  quality of play of the teams and the parade of star players.

    According to the Managing Director LaLiga Nigeria, Javier Del Rio from the creation of the Spanish Men’s league in 1902, the biggest football matches which have continued to attract awe and global momentum in the professional league are centered on the five derbies in the league.

    Speaking with sports writers in Lagos, Javier Del Rio explained that football fans far and wide follow the Laliga derbies religious and with delight emotions because of its glamour, excitements, passion, culture, and history.

    “We found that many Nigeria football fans only know about the El Clasico as a big game in LaLiga, and El Clasico is not even a Derby,”. Javier Del Rio told the Nigerian sports writers at La Liga Derbies close-up meet recently held in Lagos.”

    LaLiga derbies are more than just football; they are about tradition, history, and culture. They are some of the most exciting matches in the world. LaLiga derbies are also some the most fiercely contested rivalries in World football,” he explained.

    The aim of the forum said Javier Del Rio was to raise awareness for each of the Derbies being played in LaLiga during the 2nd half of the season; namely the Madrid Derbi between Real Madrid CF and Atletico de Madrid; the El Gran Derbi between Sevilla FC and Real Betis; the Valencian Derbi between Valencia CF and Levante UD; the Basque Derbi between Real Sociedad and Athletic Bilbao; and the Catalan Derbibetween FC Barcelona and RCD Espanyol.

    “As LaLiga continues to build its brand’s presence Nigerians are becoming more and more familiar with the league, its various big games, and most of all its Derbies, which are highly passionate.

    “We do this along with supporting the growth of grassroots football in Nigeria, LaLiga is committed to inspiring new fans of the beautiful game, introducing them to the Spanish league and the best in world football while expanding their worldviews,” Javier Del Rio said.

     

    Brief History on LaLiga Derbies Below

    THE MADRID DERBY: REAL MADRID VS ATLETICO DE MADRID

    The Madrid derby between the city’s two biggest teams – Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid – is a more than century-long story of friends, neighbours, and most of all, rivals.

    Although the city of Madrid currently boasts five LaLiga teams, as Getafe, Leganes and Rayo Vallecano all have gained promotion in recent seasons, Real versus Atleti is the big one for many natives of the city, known as madrileños. The derby is now the most played game in Spanish football history, and among world football’s most celebrated fixtures.

    After Real Madrid were officially established in 1902, and then Atletico the following year, the two sides faced off in various friendlies and unofficial meetings before the first recorded official meeting in the Campeonato Regional Centro, a 1-1 draw on 2 December 1906.

     

    “El GRAN DERBI”: SEVILLA FC VS REAL BETIS

    Sevilla, the Andalusian capital, is home to one of Spanish football’s most colourful derby meetings, between the city’s two LaLiga sides, Sevilla FC and Real Betis. It’s such a big game that it’s become known as ‘El Gran Derbi’… “The Big Derby.”

    Both among LaLiga’s most historic clubs, and both previous Primera Division title winners, the Seville derby rivalry is one which has divided allegiances and even families within the city for over a century.

    A strong British influence existed when organised football was first played in Seville back in the last decade of the 19th century. The first club in Seville was created in 1890, while today’s Sevilla FC were founded in October 1904. Real Betis Balompie came into being just three years later.

    After many official and unofficial early meetings in competitions as diverse as the Copa de Sevilla, Copa del Duque de Santo Mauro, Andalusian championship and Southern Regional Championship, the two clubs were founder members of LaLiga’s second tier, with Betis winning both 1928/29 meetings, 3-0 away and 2-1 at home.

    THE VALENCIA DERBY: VALENCIA CF VS LEVANTE UD

    The Valencia city derby between Valencia CF and Levante UD has grown in recent years into one of Spanish football’s keenest local rivalries.

    Also known as the ‘derbi del Turia’ for the river which runs through the centre of Spain’s third-biggest city, the fixture has really picked up steam in recent decades as Levante have established themselves in LaLiga Santander, with all the clashes and controversies that brings.

    ‘Los Granotas’ [the frogs] actually pre-date their local rivals by a decade, with Levante Futbol Club playing its first game in 1909, while based in the seaside El Cabanyal district of the city. Valencia Club de Futbol then arrived in 1919, closer to the centre at Mestalla, with the first ‘official’ derby being played the following year in the Valencian Regional Championship.

    When LaLiga began in 1928/29, Valencia began in the second tier, earning promotion to the top flight within just three seasons.

     

    THE BASQUE DERBY: ATHLETIC CLUB VS REAL SOCIEDAD

    LaLiga’s Basque Derby is a unique fixture in world football, with the rivalry between Bilbao’s Athletic Club and San Sebastian-based Real Sociedad going way past just football.

    The historic enmity between the Basque country’s two biggest cities, industrial Bilbao and aristocratic San Sebastian, found a sporting outlet when football arrived in the early 20th century.

    Athletic Club, using the English spelling, was founded in 1898 by Bilbao-born engineering students who had studied in the United Kingdom. San Sebastian’s Real Sociedad de Futbol [Royal Society of Football] was soon established 100 kilometres along the coast in 1909, with the official seal of Spain’s King Alfonso XIII.

    Exhibition and friendly games between the clubs immediately began, with the beginning of the Basque Regional League in 1913 bringing official status.

     

    THE CATALAN DERBY: FC BARCELONA VS RCD ESPANYOL

    The rivalry between the two clubs dates right back to the beginnings of organised football in the city, three decades before the establishment of LaLiga. There have also been Catalan derbies (also known locally as the ‘derbi barcelonés’) through the years in the Copa Del Rey, Spanish Supercopa, Copa Catalonia and the now defunct Fairs Cup. While 25-time LaLiga winners Barcelona have often come out on top, Espanyol are always eager to upset their historically more successful neighbours.

    The two clubs had similar but ultimately different origins at the turn of the 20th century. Barcelona were established by Swiss student Hans Gamper in November 1899, with many of the founder members coming from the city’s cosmopolitan ex-pat community. Espanyol were set up the following October, with locally-bon engineering student Angel Rodriguez Ruiz as president and the team drawn mostly from migrant workers from other Spanish regions such as Andalucía, Extremadura, Galicia and even Madrid.