Eight-time winner Lionel Messi and Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal have been included among the 30 nominees for the 2026 men’s Ballon d’Or. France Football announced the nominees on Tuesday, with Messi receiving his 17th career nomination. The 39-year-old Inter Miami and Argentina forward has previously won the prestigious award eight times, in 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2015, 2019, 2021 and 2023. Yamal, 19, earned his third nomination after a standout […]

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has rewarded Edo Queens with N50 million following their victory in the 2026 WAFU-B Women’s Champions League. The governor announced the reward on Tuesday during a ceremony at the Government House in Benin, where the team presented the 2025/26 Nigeria Women’s Football League and WAFU-B titles. Edo Queens defeated Ghanaian side Ampem Darkoa Ladies 4-1 on penalties after a 2-2 draw at the end of […]

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has foiled a planned kidnapping operation in Oron Local Government Area and recovered weapons, ammunition and speedboats allegedly linked to a suspected criminal syndicate. The operation was carried out on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, by Marine Police operatives in Oron, working with Marine Hunters, following credible intelligence about a planned kidnapping in the area. According to the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, […]

FIFA is facing fresh legal pressure after European Leagues expanded its complaint to the European Commission over what it described as the governing body’s “abusive conduct” towards women’s football. The organisation, which represents 53 professional divisions and more than 1,300 clubs across Europe, has raised concerns over FIFA’s women’s international match calendar and related regulatory decisions. European Leagues said FIFA’s approach could threaten the growth and financial sustainability of women’s […]