UEFA Europa League Round of 16 Draw

The Uefa Europa League Round of 16 Draw is out. What your take about this?


This is how the draw looks
Everton (Eng) v Dynamo Kyiv (UKR)
Dnipro (UKR) v Ajax (NED)
Zenit (RUS) v Torino (ITA)
Wolfsburg (GER) v Internazionale (ITA)
Villareal (ESP) v Sevilla (ESP)
Napoli (ITA) v Dinamo Moskva (RUS)
Club Brugge (BEL) v Besiktas (TUR)
Fiorentina (ITA) v Roma (ITA)

England to call-up Liverpool Jordon Ibe to stop Nigeria from claiming his services

Liverpool young star Jordon Ibe is on the verge of England call-up, as the England set-up are keen on calling him to the senior squad, with Nigeria competing with the Three Lions for the wonder-kid's international services, reports the Daily Mail.
             
Ibe is eligible to play for Nigeria because of his father, and the African gaints want to tempt the 19-year-old into turning his back on England and committing his future to them instead.

The winger has represented England at multiple youth levels, and while he's expected to one day play for the senior side, he could be fast-tracked now - with England senior team Coach Roy Hodgosn and co looking forward to inviting him to the team and desperate not to lose the enormously talented teenager to Nigerians.

Since his recall from Championship loan spell with Derby County, Ibe has torn up Premier League trees. He's excelled as a right wing-back, and has practically made the spot his own in the Liverpool squad.

Flying Eagles AYC 21-man squad list Out see who the Coach Selects

Flying Eagles' Head Coach Manu Garba (OON) has released a list of 21 players who will represent Nigeria at the 19th African Youth Championship in Senegal.
                
Nigeria play host Senegal, Congo-Brazzaville and Cote d'Ivoire in Group A of the Tournament scheduled for 8th-22nd March 2015 in the city of  Dakar and M'Bour Senegal.

THE FULL LIST

 Joshua Enaholo, Musa Muhammed, Mustapha Abdullahi, Akinjide Idowu, Saheed AbdulGaniyu, Izuchukwu Omego, Bernard Bulbwa, Alhassan Ibrahim, Christian Pyagbara, Abdullahi Alfa, Saleh Usman, Ifeanyi Ifeanyi, Samuel Okon, Obinna Nwobodo, Ifeanyi Mathew, Dele Alampasu, Chidera Ezeh, Taiwo Awoniyi, Bello Zaharadeen, Wasiu Jimoh, Olorunleke Ojo

This list is listed here according to how it been reported: Footballlive.ng 

Campbell to contest for London Mayor

Sol Campbell's desire to become a politician has taken a step further after it was revealed that he has been urged to stand for London Mayor in 2016.
           
The 40-year-old former England international is wanted by senior Conservative MPs to replace Boris Johnson in a year's time when the process begins after the General Election in May.

Campbell met Tory chairman Grant Shapps in December to discuss possible candidacy but speaking to the Sun he admitted a decision has yet to be made on his behalf.

However, the ex-Tottenham and Arsenal defender did outline his intentions as London Mayor if he did stand for that position.

'We'll see what happens. A few conversations have to take place,'he said.

'I'm London through and through. It's about getting more of the wealth in central London to help the boroughs.'

Stratford-born Campbell also believes there should be more ethic minorities represented in Parliament.

Full Stories here (isoccerng.com)

NPFL : Warri Wolves Players Begin Warning Strike

The Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) side Warri Wolves Players have began a warning strike to press for their unpaid wages, according to supersport.com.
              
The angry players boycotted training on Tuesday evening after honouring the morning session, it was learned.
wolves have failed to pay their players  salaries for the month of January, and the players fear that could extended to February.

The players also claimed they are still owed 30 percent of their signing-on fees for last season despite an agreement by clubs with the League Management Company (LMC) to abolish such fees and put in place improved salaries.

One of the influential players of the club told supersport.com: "It is so disheartening that after working we still haven't been paid. The club needs to know that we have a life apart from being footballers. We have families and dependents. They have not paid us for the last month, and they still owe us 30 percent signing-on fees for last season."

"We, the players, are not happy with what they are doing to us. How can we continue to play on empty stomachs? And at the same time we can't provide for our families when we should.

Apart from the salary and signing-on fees, we haven't been paid match bonuses for five matches, including four matches from last season's league," another player revealed.

The players of the Warri club have now threatened to boycott the second leg, preliminary round match against RC Bobo-Dioulasso in the Caf Confederation Cup this Saturday.

"If nothing is done about the money owed us, then we will stay away from the Caf Confederation Cup on Saturday and we will continue to stay away from training afterwards," Warned one of the players.

Wolves take one-goal lead into Saturday's game following their 1-0 win in Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso.

The club reportedly owned and financed by the Delta State government.

Matic suspension reduced, but still misses League Cup final clash against Tottenham

Chelsea Midfielder Namanja Matic suspension has been reduced, but he still misses League Cup final against Tottenham. Chelsea FC has appalled with the English FA's decision on Matic
              
The London blues play the League Cup final against London rivals Tottenham Hotspur this weekend, and they'II be doing it without one of their best players. While the FA has opted to reduce Matic's suspension for violent conduct, he's still suspended for two games in all competitions, meaning he won't play at Wembley Stadium on Sunday.


The Serbia was shown a straight red card for an incident involving Burnley's Ashley Barnes on Saturday. Barnes caught Matic high up with his studs and Matic reacted by shoving Barnes to ground. Barnes was not booked fir his part in the incident, and referee Matin Aktkinson has been given a week off from Premier League officiating for his poor call.

Of course, a small reduction in suspension for Matic, coupled with the lack of discipline for Barnes, has Chelsea annoyed.

According to reports, Their release states that "it is Chelsea's opinion that referees and the football authorities must do more to protect players at all levels of the from dangerous challenges."And while on one disagrees with that, Matic did, after all, shove Barnes to the ground during a non-footballing incident. That's a red card and three-games or more, but there's not more of a case for eliminating Matic's suspension altogether. What he did was violet conduct, by the letter of the law.

Ultimately, the biggest beneficiary from all this is Tottenham, who will be thrilled to face a Chelsea side that doesn't include their star defensive midfielder. The blues are still going to be favorites to lift the cup, but Spurs' chances of springing an upset just got a lot better with the confirmation that Matic will miss the match.

Flop Spurs Striker Adebayor acquire a new Rolls-Royce Phantom Car

Emmanuel Adebayor- Rolls-Royce Phantom Drop head Coupe
                 
The striker stock may be very low right now as he warms the bench the subtitutes' bench each week for Totttenham, but he has found a way of grabbing attention once again.

The enigmatic Togo forward arrived at the club's Enfield bas in lavish style as he drove a £360,000 Rolls-Royce. The picture was posted on his official Instagram page flaunting the car to his fans.

Eneramo Out For Three Weeks Over Injury

Nigeria and Sivasspor's striker Micheal Eneramo has been ruled out for three weeks due to an undisclosed injury reports stated.
                          
The 29 year old forward who has scored three goals and made two assists in 12 games will miss this weekend's clash away at Genclerbirligi and fixtures against Kayserispor and Besiktas for the Yigdos.

Sivasspor signed Eneramo during the winter transfer window on a free transfer from Basakehir.

The 29-year-old striker scored 29 goals in the league when when he previously played for the team in 70 appearances.

Eneramo has 10 Nigeria international caps to his name and has previously played for Besiktas, Sivasspor and Karabukspor in the Turkish Super League.

Their opponents this weekend Genclerbirligi, put an end to their losing run last weekend with a 1-0 victory over bottom of the table Balikesirspor.  Complete sports  reports

Keshi has been offered terms.. but he can go to Burkina Faso if he wishes- pinnick

President of the Nigeria Football Federation Amaju Pinnick confirmed to www.footballive.ng  according to reports that the body has offered Stephen keshi new terms for a contract renewal.
                     
Keshi's contract was delayed because the Federation wanted to avoid any litigation' and had ensued the terms of what was offered was in the best interest of Country as well as protect the concerns of the coach.
" We just finalized the contract and it will be presented today while we expect a response on Wednesday.

"The reason why the contract was delayed was  because we wanted to avid any litigation. We had to look at everything that will protect Keshi and the NFF's interests and be the best for the country.

However, Pinnick made clear the Federation will wish Keshi on his way should he refuse the terms of the contract. "If what he's offered by Burkina Faso is better than what we've presented, and he opts for other, well it's unfortunate."

Video Footage: Southampton stewards catching Liverpool fan trying to join the celebrations with the team

Liverpool vs Southampton match was full of fun an interesting parts. Liverpool secure their 7 straight Premier League win over Southampton on Sunday after by winning 2-0.

                   

The second goal scored by Sterling cause a lot of celebrations both for the team and the fans in the stadium and around the globe. 

This is a video clip of Liverpool fan wanted to join the team in celebrating the second goal, but was hold down by Southampton stewards who are quick to get him off before he invading the Pitch. 

Nigeria Golden Eaglets to play Amajimbos in Cup semi final

Four-time world champions Nigeria face a contest against first-time qualifiers South Africa for a place in the final of the 11th African U-17 Championship on-going in Niger Republic.
               
The Amajimbos surprised African football followers by lashing Cameroon 3-1 in their final Group B match in Niamey on Sunday, setting a stage for a clash with the reigning world champions.

It is a clash of the illustrious against greehorns, but Nigeria coach Emmanuel Amuneke said on Sunday: "We are going to under-rate South Africa. My boys made that mistake against Guinea and it nearly cost us dearly. We will go all out against South Africa with our full strength."

The match starts 5pm Niger Republic time on Wednesday, with both teams, as well as fellow semi finalists Mail and Guinea, already through to the FIFA U-17 World Cup finals taking place in Chile 17th October-8th November this year. Reports (thenff.com)

Squad knew Liverpool's surge back to form would come Midfielder says

Liverpool  Midfielder Joe Allen says "There was no doubt" among-st Liverpool's players that they would rekindle the positive form they displayed last season after a slow start to this campaign.
              
The Reds were highly criticized after a disappointed start to the 2014/15 season, struggling to score goals in complete contrast to how they ended 2013/2014.

After their opening day win at home to Southampton, Brendan Rodgers' side suffer six defeats, scored just 13 goals and conceded 17 in their following 11 Premier League games.

But with summer signings beginning to settle into the Liverpool set-up, and some head space for the likes of Simon Mignolet and Mario Balotelli, Liverpool are on the up again.

Just one defeat in their last 13 Premier League games, 8 victories and 21 goals has seen the Reds edge closer to the four positions.

Victory at Southampton on Sunday sees Liverpool move just two points off fourth place and three points of third.

"There was no doubt," Allen told the Liverpool Echo. "We knew the level we'd been at previously and that we could get to it again.

"It was just a matter of how quickly we were going to get there.

Read full details of what he said (This is Anfield.com)

Arsenal should be on-top - Jose Mourinho thinks

The Chelsea Manager Jose Mourinho at it again with Arsenal coach after taking a swipe at Arsene Wenger, claiming the Arsenal should be contesting for the Premier League title and not top four finish.
               
The Reds London side, Gunners are currently 12 points behind the Blues with 12 matches left for the season to end siting in third position on the log. Mourinho stated that with the quality of their squad, they should be among the front runners.

"Arsenal? I dont understand why they are not where we are, with Machester City, because I like their team. I think they have good players. Alexis, Welbeck important players added to an already very good squad. I think they are a team for more, Mourinho said.

"At this moment Wenger has a dream job that we would all love to have. He has the stability and has the time to buy and sell and wait for success... and wait and wait!! I think he has the dream job.

What he did to get many titles in a certain period gives him the credibility that he deserves.Obviously he is a fantastic manager but he's in a fantastic position to be successful. when I look at the players, I really think they have to win."

Hazard asks Chelsea boss to Provide him with a new shin pads

Belgium international and Chelsea star Eden Hazard has asked his coach Jose Mourinho to help develop special shin pads that would also protect his calves, the Chelsea boss says.
            
Espn reported that Mourinho has repeatedly spoken out about the number of fouls committed against Hazard, and at the turn of the year suggested the Belgium international could leave the Premier League if he continues to be targeted.

The Chelsea boss had more recently complained that Hazard had been fouled nine times during 1-1 Champions League draw at Paris Saint-Germain this week but said opponents were not being punished because the winger was not the type of player who "dives, stays on the floor, rolls in the grass, screams."

Speaking prior to Saturday's game against Burnley, Mourinho said Hazard had requested his assistance in developing shin pads that would offer greater protection.

The Burnly vs Chelsea match ended in 1-1 draw.
          
"Eden told me to speak with my friends who make the carbon shin pads," he told his prematch news conference. "I am not joking. He told me to speak with them because I am friends with the guy, to try to make it also for the back (of his calves). Like a horse, when the horses do the jumping in front and behind. Because now he gets (kicked) behind.

Gerrard vow to return as a Liverpool manager

Steven Gerrard Liverpool legend lays down future plans, has he revealed that his dream is to one day return to the club as a manager after his time with MLS side LA Galaxy comes to an end, Sky Sports reports.
                      
The Liverpool Captain also blasts Mario Balotelli penalty labeling his attitude as a disrespecting one after he took away the ball from Jordan Henderson to take the spot kick against Beskitas last night.

The Premier League's Ten Best English Teenagers, With Liverpool's Jordon Ibe and Exciting Man United Pair

The 34-year-old will draw the curtain on a glittering 17-year playing career at the club over the summer as his contract expires.

But the former England man has promised this will not be the last Reds fans see of him as he has designs on returning one day as manager.

"I still see myself as a player, and i know how tough it is to be a manager," he said.

"It is obviously a big dream of mine, but you have to be good enough first and foremost the captain fantastic stated."

King of spot kicks Balotelli gave Liverpool the needed victory over Beskitas

Liverpool misfiring striker Mario Balotelli has regain his momentum in front of goal, has the Italian got the winning goal in the last 10 minutes for Liverpool in their Uefa Europa League last round of -32 matches against Beskitas of turkey.
             
The 24-year-old came in as a substitute in the 70th minutes, but he was so influential ever since he came on the pitch.

Balotelli took the responsibility upon him self to take the penalty after Jordan Ibe was fouled in the last 10 minutes of the game, he collected the ball from the stand in captain Henderson and appeared to get in disagreement with both the Midfielder and the striker Daniel Sturridge. Henderson look over to the bench but there was no signal..

But striker Balotelli insisted in taking it since he has only missed just 2 out of the 28 penalties he has taken scoring 26 penalties before the Thursday game and appeared determined to take the spot kick, placing the ball on the spot kick and slotted it in beautifully by sending the keeper the wrong way.

The goal was Mario Balotelli's fourth the season and his second in Europe.

The striker celebrated the goal with his team-mates including their team captain of the night Henderson,who initially acknowledged the goal by tapping the striker on shoulder, before Balotelli pulled him back for a hug.

In the reports and interview with Henderson on ITV concerning the spot kick he said "It was a big goal,"

"I wanted the penalty, Mario felt confident he has taken big penalties before. Everyone wants to take them. i felt confident in Mario, he has taken big penalties before and he got the nod."

The Italian also has this to say after he took the  penalty away from his captain on Instagram :

Mario Balotelli        ✔ @FinallyMario

Follow

And .. Thank all of you supporters . Thanks with all my heart. You are great. Now let's think about sunday match

Video footage of Balotelli Penalty kick

Glo Nigeria Professional Football League draws Out

The Glo Nigeria Professional football league draws for the 2014/2015 season is out, here are the Match Day 1 Fixtures below:
                    

The Matches kicks Off March 7 2015. 

Enyimba vs Akwa United

Wikki Tourists vs Shooting Stars

El-Kanemi Warriors vs Nasarawa United

Sharks vs Sunshine Stars

Dolphins vs Kwara United

Giwa FC vs Abia Warriors

Heartland vs Kano Pillars

Bayelsa United vs Lobi Stars

Gabros FC vs Warri Wolves

FC Taraba vs Rangers 

AYC 2015: Golden Eaglets fight back from a goal down to draw 1-1 with Guinea

Nigeria's U-17 team, Golden Eaglets, on Wednesday forced their Guinean counterparts to a 1-1 draw at Stade General Seyni Kountche at the on-going African U-17 Championship in Naimey.
                  
Team Captain Kelechi Nwakali yet again rescued the team with a vital equalizer in the second half from the spot kick after Sam Diallo had scored the first goal in the 11th minute through a penalty kick as well.

Nigeria, however, tops Group A with goal difference as it has four points with Guinea.

The Guineans dominated the first 10 minutes of play by forcing the Golden Eaglets into their own half.

A minutes later, Nigeria conceded a penalty after defender Lukman Halilu brought down skillful Yamodou Toure in the box, and Sam Diallo dispatched the ball behind goalkeeper Akpan Udoh.

The Guineans showed better initiatives in the attack by forcing the Golden Eaglets on the defensive time and again.

Abdoulaye Jules Keita was handful on the left flank in the 22th minute.

Victor Osimhen thought he had got the much needed equalizer but his powerful header off a cross from Samuel Chukwueze was disallowed by referee Jean Jacques Ngambo.

Read more here (Premium Times ) 

Ronaldo ended his goal drought has Madrid beat Schalke

Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo ended a three-game goal drought as Madrid took control of their Champions League round of 16 tie with Schalke in Germany.
                     
The forward's has last scored for Madrid in January and his form was questioned but he brilliantly show that he still has the goal scoring ability in him by converting Dani Carvajal's cross to open the scoring by heading the cross into the net.

Ronaldo goal of the night has made him the first person to score in thirteen consecutive away Champions League games. He has also tops the list of goals and assists over the last two season of European competition.

The Portugal star leads the way by some distance with a combined total of 29. Bacerlona star Messi is in secomd with 18.

The 30-year-old also created the second goal which arrived moments after Schalke's Felix Platte had smashed against the bar.

Marcelo capitalised, driving into the top corner, and the holders will take a healthy lead to Madrid on 10 March.

Los Blancos have now won 10 straight games in the competition and with James Rodriguez to return from injury to assist Gareth Bale, Benzema and Ronaldo, they have a stockpile of talent to threaten retaining the trophy.

Report culred form BBC

NFF President Pinnick meets with Nigerian's young footballers in London

NFF President Amaju Pinnick has met with parents of some ravemaking Nigeria youngsters across the top rank in England.
                         
According to THE NNF.COM reports, On his way to an official meeting with FIFA President, Mr. Sepp Blatter at the Home of FIFA on Wednesday morning, the NFF stooped over in the England capital and watched Sunday's FA Cup fifth round match between Arsenal and Middlesbrough at the Emirates.

"I was able to see Kenneth Omeruo and Chuba Akpom at the match. I am meeting the parents of a number of these youngsters this time and have plans to meet all of them and also their parents in due course.

"You see, some of them might have represented England at junior level, but they are willing to represent Nigeria at senior level, and that is what we are looking at. We are looking at strengthening our teams at all levels and these players are willing, once we can convince them that there is a new set-up in Nigeria football."

Pinnick's diary has noted 18-year-old attacking midfielder Alex Iwobi of Arsenal, who has joind up with the country's Olympic Team ahead of their departure for an 11th All-Africa Games qualifying match against Gabon in Libreville on Saturday, as well as former Chelsea centre back Joshua Debayo, also 18, now on the books of another Premiership team, Southampton. He is also an England U-18 international.

There are also Fejiri Okenabirhie, 19-year-old former Arsenal winger, now with Stevenage; 19-year-old Brighton FC striker Chike Kandi, formerly with Chelsea FC and; Chelsea and England U-19 defender Ola Aina, 18.

Mayowa Balogun, 18, is a versatile defender with Wigan Athletic FC while Arsenal defender Semi Ajayi is getting better by the day.

UCL: Chelsea battles 1-1 draw at PSG, Bayern held to a barren draw at Ukraine

The English Premier League leaders Chelsea travel down to France for their first leg UEFA Champions League match against Paris Saint German.

                      

Chelsea were able to grind out a score 1-1 draw in Paris which give them upper hands in-terms of goal advantage, Branislav Ivanovic's header set the London Blues side ahead in the first half .

But Edison Cavani came to the rescue of  home side PSG to level things up at 54 minutes, to set up the tie decider in the 2nd leg at Stamford Bridge. 

In the other game on the night, German champions Bayern Munich were also held to a goalless draw in Ukraine by Shakhtar Donestk in their first leg as well, who goes through will now be emerge in Germany after the second leg tie.    

LMC holds 2014/2015 draw for Glo Premier League fixtures

Fixtures for the 2014/2015 Glo Premier League will be drawn at a ceremony in Abuja on Wednesday, February 18 as the League Management Company (LMC) reminded Clubs that February 20 remains the deadline for submission of registration materials for the season.
                     
Salihu Abubakar, the Chief Operating Officer of the LMC said the draw ceremony is part of the build-up to the new season, coming after the Glo Premier League Super-4 invitational.

He added that the March 5 cut-off date for the submission of Financial Performance Guaranty still stands and said appropriate sanctions will be applied to clubs that breach the deadline.

Russia Manager Fabio Capello face sacking if Russian team fails Qualification for Euro

The President of the Russian Football Union, Nikolai Tolstykh, revels that Fabio Capello faces the sack if Russia don't make Euro 2016.
              
The former Juventus, Italy, and England Coach is contracted to the Russian national team until the 2018 World Cup, to be held in Russia.

The 68-year-old Italian earns a reported €8.3m per year, but his side are currently third in Group G, five points behind Austria in first.

"The contract provides the Russia Football Union with the possibility of sacking the coach in case of the team's poor results," "The non-qualification of the team for Euro 2016 would be seen as a breach of contract."

Capello has previously faced criticism from Russia's sports minister, while the RFU has confessed that it struggles to afford his salary. According to reports from Russia

 

Man'United Overcome the Preston huddle and set up FA Cup quarter-final tie with Arsenal

Manchester United survived  the scare of Preston in the second-half at Deepdale to keep the faith of their manager of winning his first trophy for the club.
               
A season of high-profile cup upsets looked like it could claim yet another victim when Scott Laird fired the League One side ahead soon after the break, BCC reports.

But United's disjointed attack finally found some fluidity when expensive loan signing Radamel Falcao was replaced after an hour, and recalled midfielder Ander Herrera led the revival.

Herrera, making only his third start in three months, squeezed home the equaliser with Wayne Rooney avoiding contact with the ball in an offside position, before Marouane Fellaini's close-range finish gave Red Devils the lead in a thrilling tie.

Ronney, back playing in a more advance role, made certain of victory with late penalty that he won and converted himself to give the scoreline a gloss that Preston did not deserve.

United will now face the FA Cup holders Arsenal in the quarter-final, and Liverpool tie Blackburn.

FA Cup quarter-final draw in full
Aston Villa v West Brom

Bradford  v Reading 

Liverpool v Blackburn

Man Utd v Arsenal

Ties to be played on 7/8 March (Sat/Sun), kick off time 4pm.

Six Time Olympic Gold Medalist Bolt to Retire from Athletics after 2017

Olympic six-time gold medalist Usain Bolt has announced that he will be retiring from athletics after the 2017 World Championships in London.
                                     
According to BBC reports that even though Usain Bolt had suggested that the Rio Games in 2016 would be his last major championship, he now appears to have changed his mind to make a return to London.

Regarding what he told Daily Mail that his reason for adding one more year is basically because his sponsors have asked him to do so.
                       
He stated "My sponsor has asked me to go on for another year; to 2017 and London. But I'll be doing one event, the 100 meters. I've already discussed it with my coach. I can concentrate on that and on retiring in a winning note."

Ex-Falcon Player Chified Shows Off her New Ripped Look

Ex-Super falcons of Nigeria player Andre Blaze Chified has showed of her new ripped look on her Instagram account.




What are we going to call this now ladies and gentle men please i need your opinions on this, she has totally converted her look and body to a male stature..
Hottest male or female! what should we call her? answers from you out there, for me i will call her a hottest chick swagging in men way ...

Ibrahimovic' the Ligue One most Prolific striker and deadly finisher

Zlatan Ibrahimovic celebrated the unveiling of his wax statue this last week with a worthy of creating a monument. The Swedish superstar according the reports struck the net just with second touch of the game, giving Les Parisiens the lead.
                  
The 33-year-old striker after two minuets for Paris Saint Germain, but they ended up conceding two goals in the final minuets of the game to draw against Caen.

PSG Ezequiel Lavezzi added one more goal to their score-sheet, but their pre-UEFA Champions League match against Chelsea in the mid-week may not end properly, since the current Ligue 1 Champions conceded two goals before the match ended, thus giving away two needed points in their quest for another French league trophy.
                
According to records and reports liversoccertv.com, Zlatan Ibrahimovic has now scored 67 Ligue one goals since joining PSG in 2012, which makes him the highest, having 24 more than any other player.

Kolo Toure Confirms Retirement from International Duty

Liverpool and Ivory coast defender kolo Toure has confirmed he will retire from international football after helping Ivory Coast win the African Cup of Nations earlier this month.
                    
Toure, who made his debut for the Elephants in April 2000, had previously spoken of his intentions to sign off from duty with his country after the tournament in Equatorial Guinea.

Throughout the competition, the Liverpool man outlined his desire to depart on high - and he achieved just that after an exhilarating 9-8 penalty shootout victory in the AFCON final against Ghana.

Toure is expected back at Melwood on Monday to link up with his Liverpool teammates following their FA Cup fifth round comeback against Crystal Palace on Saturday.

Speaking to RTI Sport in Abidjan, the defender said: "It is with great emotion that I inform you that I'm going to step back.

"My goal was to win the Africa Cup of Nations and I must admit that it was a very difficult decision to make. I do love my country and especially love football, but at some point, there comes a time to stop."

Courtesy of  Reports: (Liverpoolfc.com) 

Liverpool bounce back from defeat to beat Crystal Palace 2-1 in FA Cup fifth round

Liverpool came from behind to beat Crystal Palace 2-1 and exorcise their Selhurst Park demons and night mares in the FA Cup fifth round to progress to the Quarter finals stage.

Crystal Palace took the lead through a Fraizer Campbell's long range shot after Liverpool goal Keeper, Simon Mignolet push away Dwight Gyale header but only to land in front of the Palace striker and he beautiful slotted it straight down into the bottom corner of the Reds net.

Goals from Daniel Sturridge Adam Lallana was enough to secure liverpool to win. The draw for the quarter final to be made later tonight.
                         
The Reds now remain unbeaten in their last nine matches in all competitions and just lost once in the last sixteen competitive games.

This set up a warning signs for others and to keep pace with English Premier League top four finish.

This are other results of the FA Cup fifth round:

Aston Villa

2-1

Leicester

Bradford

2-0

Sunderland        

Arsenal

2-0

Middlesbrough

West Brom

4-0

West Ham          

Blackburn

4-1

Stoke   

Derby

1-2

Reading

Crystal Palace

1-2

Liverpool

Today Fixture

Preston 

v

Manchester united 

Ideye Celebrate his Val with bagging in goals for WestBrom

Nigerian Super eagles striker Brown Ideye has continue to find the back of the net since the romour surrounding him been sold out to Qatar club.

The West Bromich Albion forward grabbed a brace on valentines day to help his team progress into quarter finals stage of the English FA Cup.

The 26-year-old took to his twitter account after the match to appreciate the lord and congratulate his team and teammate for job will done.

  
He's been missing the love and now when he's found his feet again, banging in goals, getting four in three appearances this 2015.
    
Ideye is sincerely grateful to everyone for this time and most especially his fans.

CAF Confederation Cup: Dolphins' players unsure of travel plans to E'Guinea

Dolphins FC striker, Isiaka Olawale has disclosed that plenty of  uncertainty surrounds their trip to Malabo, Equatorial Guinea where they are supposed to face Leones Vegetarianos FC in the CAF Confederations Cup tomorrow.
                       
In a chat with footballlive.ng, barely 24 hours to the game, Olawale says he knows nothing about the team's travel plans or arrangements for the game.

"We are Playing on Saturday and that's less than 24 hours now and what i heard before was that flight from Port Harcourt to Lagos and from Lagos to Ghana the we link Equatorial Guinea but now I dont know if it's a direct flight from Lagos to Malabo"

"The players are ready and anytime they say we should go we go;the player are ready and we are still at the team's hotel. Anytime they say we should move we move"

Dolphins is one of the four Nigerian teams involved in continental engagements this season and they scheduled to face Leones Vegetarianos FC in the first leg preliminary stage of the CAF Confedration Cup"

However, skipper of Dolphins FC, Sunday Rotimi has allayed the fears of his teammate, Isiaka Olawale by revealing that the management of the club will because of time factor fly them to the match venue via chartered flight today.

"That is wrong information; we are going by air direct to Malabo to honour the match due to time factor. We know the importance of the game and so good, the management is working towards making sure that everything goes well."

Tottenham Kane' has won the Premier League Player of the Month

England and Tottenham Hotspur striker Harry Kane has won the Premier League player of the month award for January.

                   

The 21-years-old has been in fine form for the Mauricio Pochettino side, he has keep firing in all cylinders after scoring eight goals in ten games this 2015.

With also bagging in twelve goals in fifteen games for the north London club.

And since's New Year's Day, kane has help put Chelsea, West Brom, Arsenal into sword with some sensational solo performances. 

Nigerian's U-17 Traveled and arrives Niger Republic by Road

According to reports "I read that Nigeria U-17 football team is traveling to Niger Republic by road to play Niger U-17 team.
                     
Whoever that wickedly thieving nincompoop is that is planning to send the team to go by road must be stopped. Even if the boys are camped in any of the 6 Nigerian states of Kebbi, Skokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, Jigawa or Yobe that border Niger, they must go by air and be back by air.

Whether the person(s) holding the money that is budgeted for their flight tickets is in the NFF or Mininstry of Sports he/she/they must be forced to release it.

How can anyone be that callous as to send people's children to cross these boarders by road at a time like this, and endangering their lives, just to save some money to take care of his own who cannot even inflate a football of lace a football boot? Sad! we keep moving from one corrupt and evil activity to another because some people must make a buck out of other people's misery and pain.

With reports reaching this morning that the Emmanuel Amunike boys have now arrived Niger, the venue of the CAF U-17 Championship.

The Eaglets will kick of their campaign against the host country Niger Republic on Sunday before playing Guine  and Zambia in Group A.

Falcons Prepare's for World Cup as camp opens next week' along with Presidential host

The Nigeria Super Falcons, Triumphant of seventh time African champions setting world record of most wins for a country at continental tournaments.
                     
The Nigeria Football Federation has set a tentative date for the camping of the World Cup bound Super Falcons.

Member of the football body's Executive committee Dilichukwu Onyedinma revealed the African Champions will commence preparation from next week.

The team had been on standby since the announcement by the federation last week that it wanted the players to take part in the General elections earlier scheduled for the 15th of February.

"We are looking at next week so that they can start preparations in view of the many qualifiers and competitions that are lined up including the World Cup.We want them to resume as soon as possible"

Similarly, Dilichukwu also hinted that the team will soon be receive by President Jonathan to fulfill his promise of hosting the Continent conquering ladies soon.

" We are looking forward to the Presidential reception that has been promised and I'm not losing hope that the President will redeem his pledge towards the ladies," Dilichukwu quipped, quoting footballlive.ng .

Hazard pen's contract extension with Chelsea until 2020

Chelsea and Belgium star Eden Hazard has extend is contract with the English Premier League leaders Chelsea Football Club, he has signed a new five-and-half year contract that will make him earn a whooping sum of money (£200,000) per-week.
                      
The Belgian has been unto of his game this season, already recorded 13 goals in 36 appearances, as the Blues continue to chase for the Premier League Title this season.

"I am very happy to sing a new contract with Chelsea," Hazard told the club's official website after signing the contract.

"Since I came here in 2012 I have always felt good and the club has been very supportive to me.

"The manager has help me improve a lot, the fans have been fantastic and I have an amazing understanding with my team-mates.

"I always try to give pleasure to the supporters with my style of play and it is nice to know they appreciate my work.

"I hope we can repay that support by winning lots of trophies, beginning with the Capital One Cup at Wembley, and after that, we can push hard towards the end of the season."He said.

Latest FIFA Ranking's as Nigeria move up one place on the Log

FIFA has release the latest ranking and most Nigerian fans will be expecting Nigeria to move up than the position they have always been placed.
                      
Despite not participating at the just concluded African Cup of Nations, Nigeria has now moved one place to (42nd) in the world for the Senior National football team (Super Eagles).

 The last competitive match the Eagles' played was the African Cup of Nation Qualifying match with South Africa in November, the  match eventually ended in a 2-2 draw.

See the summary here according to FIFA.COM

Leader	Germany (unchanged)
Moves into top ten	none
Moves out of top ten	none
Matches played in total	76
Most matches played	Côte d’Ivoire, Congo DR (7 games each)
Biggest move by points	Equatorial Guinea (up 370 points)
Biggest move by ranks	Equatorial Guinea (up 69 ranks)
Biggest drop by points	Libya (down 156 points)
Biggest drop by ranks	Libya (down 35 ranks)

Sturridge believe him and Balotelli can form successful strike Partnership for Liverpool

Liverpool fit-again striker Daniel Sturridge believe and full confident that he and Mario Balotelli can forge a successful partnership as their club look to secure a place in the next season Champions League.

Google Image

Sturridge made his first Premier League start since August in Liverpool's 3-2 win againt top-four rivals Tottenham on Tuesday night, but it was former Manchester City striker Balotelli that hit the net on the night.

According to reports (Daily Mail), The 24-year-old Italy striker came off the bench, replacing Sturridge, and scored the winner for the Brendan Rodgers' side - his first Premier League strike since joining the Anfield club last summer from AC Milan.

Balotelli's best game for Liverpool came alongside Sturridge at White Hart Lane on his debut last August and the 25-year-old believes they can combine as a pair going forward.

Sturridge said: 'He's been waiting for a while to break his duck and been working very hard in training, and now he has scored one in the league i am sure things will start to go his way now.

'For me it's always about trying to help players who are here, not just Mario, but all the boys who are at the club. it's not easy to settle into a new team, a new area, a new lifestyle, with different people around you and so on and so forth.

'People don't even take that into account. I just try to do my bit, although i'm not taking any credit for him scoring- I'm just happy he did.'

Sturridge added: 'Whatever team the manager chooses to put out i will do my best whoever i have a partnership with. I try to adapt to whoever i am playing with and bring out the best in each other, and we (me and Mario) click when we are playing together.'

'But it is not just about me trying to do what i do - in the Tottenham game (in August) i played a little bit differently to how i did on Tuesday.

'I know Philipe Coutinho likes to thread balls through so i had to play on the shoulder a bit more.

'With Mario i can move around and go into wide areas because i know he will occupy the occupy the centre-halves.

'You play differently with different players and i am sure we will strike up a partnership in the future, i have no doubts about that.

Ivory Coast players rewarded awesomely by their President after winning AFCON

Cote d'Ivore players rewarded € 46,000 each and a house for winning AFCON

President Alassane Ouattara hosted the 2015 Africa champions at his Presidential palace in Abidjan on Tuesday, to reward their successful continental campaign.
                       
Each player was granted a house with a value of € 46,000 as well as the same amount in cash, while Elephants' coach Herve Renard received more than € 114,000 for leading the country to African glory.

"You managed to rebuild a strong team working as one towards one goal - winning and winning more. It's a lesson in rallying people together," President Ouattarra told the Frenchman.

Furthermore, the entire squad was made Knight of the National Order, with veterans Copa Barry, Siaka Tiene, Kolo and Yaya Toure and coach Renard being elevated to the rank of Officer of the National Order.

As for the Ivoririan Football Federation, they were granted € 380,000, while the Elephants' technical and administrative staff enjoyed  € 460,000 to share.

Read full (Ghana soccernet.com)

Balotelli first Premier League goal win's it for the Reds'

Liverpool, Italian striker Mario Balotelli hit the back of the net for the first time in English Premier League games for Liverpool against tough option side Tottenham Hotspur last night.
                             
It took him Thirteen games and seven months in to a Barclay's Premier League career with Liverpool that may not last beyond this summer, but he finally contributed a goal and it may just be one to give his team's season the impetus it needs.
                           
Credit to a wonderful pass from Adam Lallana, who droves in from the right hand side to lay a superb low cross that was timed perfectly from the Italian striker, and he tapped it in pass Hugo Lloris into the net to increased Liverpool lead to 3-2 after losing their lead twice.

The hard earn victory now sends Liverpool to within a point between them and spurs, and also within 3 point into the top four position. They lay currently on 7th position on the log standings, with Thirteen games left to end the season.

The 24-year-old striker said on social media Facebook, twitter and Instagram after the match along with a picture to show how happy he was, "Great game guys!!! This smile is ONLY for those that always Believe and support me.

"Thank you. ❤️and Forza Liverpool with a combo sign. But now head down and keep working hard. Tonight is past."

Zlatan Ibrahimovic statue unveiled in Paris

PSG striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic attends the unveiling of his waxwork in Paris, according to report on ESPN,
                      
The 33-years-came face-to-face with his life-sized likeness at the French capital's Musee Grevin, joining fellow footballers Thierry Henry, Zinedine Zidane and Ronaldo in receiving the honour.

He also joke that Paris could "replace the Eiffel Tower with my statue" after a waxwork effigy of the Paris Saint-Germain striker was unveiled.

"It's incredible. He looks very focused, like me on the pitch. Thank you so much for this fantastic work" said the Swede, who was given a life-sized replica of himself to take home.

"It's a great honour to be represented in his wonderful museum. I am very happy. You can now come and see me up close. That was the goal."

Micheal Bradley of USA scored directly from a corner kick

This is a video clip of a match between USA vs PAN yesterday night, Micheal Bradley scored directly from a corner kick.

What a  finish it was, superb corner, great cross and beautifully executed.

Marco Reus has renewed his Contract with Dortmund until 2019

Germanay and Borussia Dortmund Midfielder Marco Reus has signed a new contract until 2019.
Reus did have a £20m release clause in his previous contract according to reports, but the new deal has seen that escape route removed.

Image: TransferSources on Twitter