Tag: Cup

Lionel Messi’s World Cup jerseys set to sell for £8 Million at auction

In an auction set to take place at Sotheby’s in New York, Lionel Messi’s jerseys from the 2022 FIFA World Cup, including the historic final against France, are expected to fetch a substantial sum of £8 million. Six shirts worn by the football legend during Argentina’s triumphant journey to victory are up for grabs, with a portion of the proceeds slated to benefit charity. The collection includes Messi’s jerseys from the first half of the final, the semi-final clash against Croatia, the quarter-final showdown with the Netherlands, the round-of-16 match versus Australia, and two of the three group-stage games.

The estimated price tag of at least $10 million (£8 million) could potentially set a new record for the highest amount paid for a sports memorabilia collection, surpassing the £8.1 million achieved by Michael Jordan’s Chicago Bulls jersey from the 1998 NBA Finals Game 1. Sotheby’s, renowned for handling high-profile auctions, believes that the significance of Messi’s role in the 2022 World Cup victory elevates this collection to unprecedented heights in the realm of sports memorabilia. Brahm Wachter, Sotheby’s Head of Modern Collectibles, said; “The 2022 FIFA World Cup stands as one of the greatest events in sports history, intrinsically connected to Messi’s valiant journey and firmly establishing his status as the greatest player of all time.” “The sale of these six shirts stands as a monumental occasion in auction history, offering fans and collectors a connection to Messi’s crowning achievement. It is an honor for Sotheby’s to present and exhibit these invaluable collectibles to the public, which encapsulate the sheer brilliance of a player who has redefined the boundaries of football excellence,” Wachter added.

Zimbabwe battle Nigeria to 1-1 draw in 2026 World Cup qualifier

Super Eagles of Nigeria Zimbabwe Warriors held the Super Eagles of Nigeria to a 1-1 draw in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier on Sunday. The encounter held at Stade Huye in Rwanda, had its share of controversies, ranging from the referee’s decision for a free-kick inside Zimbabwe’s 18-yard box, to a speculated offside goal by the Super Eagles. The deadlock was broken in the 26th minute when Walter Musona fired in a free-kick goal to the dismay of Francis Uzoho, putting Zimbabwe in the lead. It was his first international goal for his country. However, calculated substitutions made by Nigeria’s coach Jose Peseiro, denied the Warriors their first win against the Super Eagles in 42 years.

Super Eagles of Nigeria Kelechi iheanacho who came in just before the second half, drove Moses Simon’s assist into the far corner of Zimbabwe’s post, to give Nigeria the equalizer. The Super Eagles had a less than ideal encounter, with no much poise to fight for goals, as would have been expected, but they remain unbeaten however. Recall the three-time African Chanapions came from behind at the Uyo International Stadium on Thursday, to steal an equalizer against Lesotho. The Super Eagles now have only two points in two games in Group C, and face tough challenge moving on in the qualifiers.

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Osimhen missed as Super Eagles begin 2026 World Cup Qualifiers with 1-1 draw against Lesotho

Super Eagles of Nigeria – Pooja photos The Super Eagles of Nigeria have started their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers with a 1-1 draw against Lesotho on Thursday. Jose Peseiro’s men couldn’t create clear chances at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium Uyo, and struggled to convert the few created by the duo of Kelechi iheanacho and Moses Simon. The visitors, Lesotho took the lead in the 56th minute with a goal by Motlomelo Mkwanazi, putting the Nigerian side on the back foot. However, the Super Eagles salvaged a response with Semi Ajayi’s 67 minutes goal.

Moses Simon taking on Lesotho player – Pooja photos on X Pressure continued on the Lesotho side, courtesy of Simon and iheanacho, who sent several balls into the opposition’s box but none was converted. Lesotho who have only won two out of their last 11 games, pulled so many delay tactics, to secure a draw from the three-time AFCON Champions, and succeeded. The match shows how much the Super Eagles misses star striker Victor Osimhen each time he’s not playing. Osimhen is currently recovering from an injury and couldn’t make it for the double qualifying matches. Meanwhile, the draw leaves the Group G standings open, with Nigeria set for a redemption opportunity against Zimbabwe at the Huye Stadium in Butare on Sunday.

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Omeruo, Iwobi 20 other Super Eagles stars arrive camp ahead of World Cup qualifiers

The Super Eagles camp has now seen 22 players for their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Lesotho and Zimbabwe. Six players earlier checked into the Four Points Hotel base on Monday, and have now been joined by additional 16 players, bringing the total to 22. According to reports, the only player missing player is Bendel Insurance goalkeeper Amas Obasogie, who is a late replacement for the injured Maduka Okoye. The team is set to kick off their training sessions at the practice pitch of the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo later on Tuesday evening. Super Eagles arrivals – Getty image Coach Jose Peseiro will lead the Super Eagles squad to their first qualifying match against Lesotho on Thursday at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium. They will also have an away fixture against Zimbabwe at the Huye Stadium in Butare on November 19.

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Nigeria Sports Minister Enoh expresses hope on Super Eagles ahead of 2026 World Cup Qualifiers

Ahead of the Super Eagles 2026 World Cup qualifiers, the Minister of Sports Development, John Enoh, backs the team to perform. Enoh urged the Super Eagles of Nigeria to start their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying series on a very strong note. He expressed confidence in the team’s abilities and revealed how much pride the nation holds for them. He went on to encourage the technical crew and the players to put their best foot forward in the two fixtures already earmarked.

Enoh expresses hope on Super Eagles ahead of 2026 World Cup Qualifying – Getty image “I have complete faith in our talented squad. The Super Eagles have a rich history of success, and we believe they are fully capable of securing two wins in the upcoming matches. “This is not just a football game; it is a representation of the spirit and resilience of the Nigerian people. I encourage our players to give their all on the field and make the nation proud,” Enoh said. He recalled the sad event that left Nigeria rilling in the 2022 World Cup, stating that the disappointment of not qualifying for the Qatar tournament left a lasting wound on Nigerians. “The memory of losing out during the qualifiers for the 2022 World Cup is still fresh in the minds of Nigerians. “The team should avoid leaving their fate to permutations. We should bring out their best to pick the first six points in front of us.” The Super Eagles will face Lesotho at home on November 16, and will travel to Zimbabwe three days after, for their second game in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

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Chelsea to Face Newcastle in Carabao Cup quarter-finals

Chelsea will face Newcastle United in the quarter-final of the Carabao Cup after securing a 2-0 victory over Blackburn Rovers. This was disclosed in an official statement on Chelsea official website on Thursday. The Blues announced that the match has been slated to hold at Stamford Bridge on Monday, December 18. Recall that Chelsea secured their place in the Carabao Cup quarter-finals on Wednesday, after defeating Blackburn Rovers on Wednesday evening. Newcastle United defeated Man United at Old Trafford 3-0 Mranwhile, Chelsea has a history of facing Newcastle in the League Cup quarter-finals, with memorable clashes in the past. In 2001, a last-minute header by Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink resulted in a 1-0 win for Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. Five years later, at St James’ Park, Didier Drogba’s free-kick secured Chelsea’s place in the semi-finals. Meanwhile, Newcastle under Eddie Howe, displayed an impressive performance to eliminate Manchester United in the competition, winning 3-0 at Old Trafford. The other fixtures in the Carabao Cup quarter-finals include Everton vs Fulham, Port Vale vs Middlesbrough, and Liverpool vs. West Ham. The Blues last won the Carabao Cup in 2015, and are looking to make a strong claim for the title this season under new manager Mauricio Pochettino.

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Manchester United are out of Carabao Cup after falling 3-0 to Newcastle

Manchester United players sad over the defeat – Getty image Manchester United faced another disappointing night as they were thrashed 3-0 by Newcastle in the Carabao Cup. The Red Devils have now been exited from the competition, even when they are the reigning champions. The defeat follows their recent derby loss to local rivals Manchester City. Newcastle manager Eddie Howe, fielded a team that was notably less star-studded than their opponents. However, it was the Magpies who dominated the match. Manchester United players sad over the defeat – Getty image Miguel Almiron opened the scoring for Newcastle, slotting the ball past Manchester United’s Andre Onana. Shortly after, Lewis Hall doubled the lead for the Magpies, while Joe Willock sealed the victory with a third goal. Last season’s Carabao Cup finalists had their title defense cut short, leaving them disappointed and their fans frustrated.

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Chelsea advance to Carabao Cup quarter-finals with 2-0 win over Blackburn

Chelsea secured a spot in the quarter-finals of the Carabao Cup with a 2-0 victory over Blackburn Rovers on Wednesday. Benoit Badiashile, making his first appearance of the season after a long hamstring injury, put Chelsea ahead. The Blues’ captain, Reece James, who was starting his first match since the opening game of the season due to a similar injury, added strength to the team. Despite being against lower league opposition, Chelsea performance was a bit questionable. Raheem Sterling scored the winner for Chelsea – Getty image However, Mauricio Pochettino’s side has shown progress in the, reaching the quarter-finals of a major tournament only four months as the club’s manager. Raheem Sterling sealed the victory with a beautifully curled second goal just on the hour mark. The Londoners, with a young squad, still faces challenges in their forward line, and striker Nicolas Jackson, who had a promising start to the season, struggled to make an impact.

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West Ham kick Arsenal out of Carabao Cup in 3-1 thriller

West Ham United have handed Arsenal a 3-1 defeat in the Carabao Cup, securing a place in the quarter-finals of the competition. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, made several changes to his lineup compared to their previous victory over Sheffield United, but it didn’t work out as planned. The Gunners ordeal started 14 minutes into the game when Ben White scored an own goal. Despite a relatively balanced first half, West Ham came out firing in the second half. Mohammed Kudus extended the lead and Jarrod Bowen’s deflected volley made it 3-0. Declan Rice sad after the defeat – Getty image However, Arsenal managed to pull one back through a brilliant finish by Martin Odegaard, but it was too late for Arteta’s side. This defeat knocked Arsenal out of the Carabao Cup. David Moyes men now advance to the quarter-finals.

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United States to host first edition of FIFA’s 32-team Club World Cup in 2025

The United States was on Friday, June 23, announced as the host country for the expanded Club World Cup in 2025. This will be the first time that the FIFA tournament features 32 teams, representing a significant expansion from the current format. FIFA President Gianni Infantino at a press conference. Source: Getty FIFA President Gianni Infantino who said the competition will be “the pinnacle” of elite men’s club football, revealed that twelve European clubs will feature, including the past three Champions League winners Chelsea, Real Madrid, and Manchester City. There would be four representatives each from Asia, Africa, and CONCACAF, which includes North and Central America, as well as six from South America. The dates, host cities, and match schedule for the tournament will be established at a later date. Asides from hosting the first edition of the expanded FIFA club world cup, the United States will also host the 2024 Copa America. They are also co-hosts of the 2026 World Cup along with Mexico and Canada. FIFA President Gianni Infantino said; “The FIFA Club World Cup 2025 will be the pinnacle of elite professional men’s club football. FIFA President, Gianni Infantino president the Club World Cup trophy to Real Madrid. Source: Getty “With the required infrastructure in place together with a massive local interest, the United States is the ideal host to kick off this new, global tournament.” The current version of the FIFA Club World Cup, an annual competition with seven teams, will be discontinued after 2023. The 20th edition of the Club World Cup, which runs from 12-22 December 2023, will be hosted by Saudi Arabia. Real Madrid won the last edition, which was held in Morocco in February. The African country also hosted the event in 2013 and 2014, and it has also been held in Brazil, Japan, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar. This expanded version in 2025 is a huge commercial opportunity for FIFA to try new broadcasting models and sign new sponsors, funding hundreds of millions of dollars in prize money for the clubs.

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