Sunderland Stun Chelsea With Late Winner At Stamford Bridge

Sunderland Stun Chelsea With Late Winner At Stamford Bridge

Chelsea suffered a shocking 2–1 home defeat to Sunderland at Stamford Bridge on Saturday, October 25, 2025 — a result that stunned fans and handed the newly promoted side one of their biggest Premier League victories in years. The Blues started brightly, taking an early lead in the 4th minute through Alejandro Garnacho, who calmly slotted home after a clever build-up play. However, their momentum didn’t last long. Sunderland equalized midway through the first half when Wilson Isidor pounced on a long throw to make it 1–1. Despite dominating possession — with nearly 70% control of the ball — and creating several clear chances, Chelsea failed to find a breakthrough. Sunderland’s resilience paid off deep into stoppage time, as Chemsdine Talbi struck a dramatic winner in the 93rd minute, silencing the home crowd and sealing a memorable victory for the visitors. Statistically, Chelsea were superior: 16 total shots to Sunderland’s 10, and nine corners compared to just one for the visitors. But wasteful finishing and late defensive lapses proved costly. The defeat marked Sunderland’s first win at Stamford Bridge since 2014 and a major statement of intent for the newly promoted club, who continue to defy expectations this season. For Chelsea, it was a painful setback in their quest for a top-four finish — a reminder that possession means little without precision or composure in key moments. Sunderland’s disciplined defending and fearless counter-attacks earned them all three points, while Chelsea’s struggles to convert dominance into results will likely raise fresh questions about consistency and focus within the squad.

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NFF: Monies received from FIFA & CAF are for specific purposes, and audited in every cycle

The Nigeria Football Federation finds it expedient to reiterate that the monies it receives from world football-governing body, FIFA and the continental governing body, CAF, like other Federations, are usually tied to specific purposes and not gifts to the Federations. The NFF said on Friday that this fresh clarification has become necessary in view of misinformation by some fellows on social media that the Federation ‘collects’ millions of dollars from FIFA on an annual basis, as if such monies were gifts to the Federation. The country’s football-governing body explained that every money received from FIFA or CAF is tied to a specific purpose, and both FIFA and CAF send their auditors to audit the accounts in which the monies are received at the end of every year. The NFF also explained that monies meant for development purposes are usually tied to specific projects and programmes, while the FIFA Forward monies are also properly specified and under strict adherence to financial regulations, compliance, monitoring and auditing at every stage of the project or program. FIFA Forward projects, such as the ongoing NFF/FIFA Players’ Hostel and new training pitches inside the MKO Abiola National Stadium, are subjected to strict controls, monitored and verified at every stage of the work. Every stage is verified, assessed and sanctioned before further monies are released to the FIFA-approved consultants, to whom the monies are paid directly. The Federation called out the mischief of the individual reeling out fictitious figures on social media, saying he would find no reason to seek clout if he has an idea of how much it costs to organize a single match of any of the National Teams. The NFF is a disciplined organization that operates prudent and strict financial protocols that are within global financial best practices. The body has regularly presented its audited account, prepared by our auditors, PriceWaterhouseCoopers (known for its global credibility and integrity) on the floor of the Congress at every Annual General Assembly.

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2026 WAFCON Race: Ihezuo, Okoronkwo Earn Falcons Win Over Bénin’s Amazons

Forwards Chinwendu Ihezuo aand Esther Okoronkwo scored first-half goals to give reigning African champions, Nigeria’s Super Falcons a 2-0 win over their Bénin Republic counterparts in the first leg of their 2026 Women Africa Cup of Nations qualifying fixture, first leg in Lome, Togo. ‎ ‎   The Super Falcons started strongly with Rasheedat Ajibade’s 6th minute lob over the Amazons’ goalkeeper Ogoun which was denied by the woodwork, while Folashade Ijamilusi’s strike two minutes later was parried away by Ogoun. ‎ ‎The Beninise couldn’t hold on tight to their low block game plan as Deborah Abiodun weaved open a congested midfield with a pass to Chiwendu Ihezuo who excellently put the ball beyond the reach of the Beninise goalkeeper to give Nigeria the lead in the 23rd minute. ‎   ‎With the Super Falcons enjoying long spells of possession, dominating every department of the game, the Amazons had their first sight of Nigerian goal in the 36th minute when Moumouni connected to a pass on the byline and managed to get past Osinachi Ohale to strike at goal, only to be denied by goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie. ‎ ‎   Deborah Abiodun was, once more, in her elements as she picked out Esther Okoronkwo with a defence-splitting pass, with the latter slotting home to double the lead for Nigeria before the stroke of halftime. The Super Falcons were lucky not to concede in the closing stages of the first half, as Moumouni’s shot against the run of play struck the frame of the post to end the half 2-0 in favour of Nigeria. ‎ ‎   The second half proved tough for both teams following tactical adjustments and a number of substitutions. However, Nigeria soaked the pressure better, containing the pace of the Amazon wingers who stepped up with high intensity in their search for goals. ‎ ‎An in-swinger in the 90th minute unsettled the Nigerian defence, leaving Sadikou with a chance to head into the net but her effort was denied by Nnadozie.‎   ‎The scoreline gives Nigeria the advantage ahead of the return leg billed for the MKO Abiola Sports Complex, Abeokuta on Tuesday. ‎

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NBA Gambling Arrests Stun League, Expose Mafia Links: What to Know

A massive gambling scandal has rocked the National Basketball Association (NBA), leading to the arrests of 34 individuals — including Portland Trail Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups, Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier, and former Cleveland Cavaliers player Damon Jones. Federal authorities say the arrests stem from two wide-ranging indictments that expose deep links between professional basketball figures and New York’s organised crime families. The FBI and the US Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York described the scheme as a “multi-million-dollar cheating conspiracy” involving both illegal sports betting and poker fraud. The scandal comes just as the NBA celebrated the start of a new season and the signing of an $76 billion broadcast deal over 11 years, adding to the shockwaves reverberating through the sport. The Sports Betting SchemeAccording to prosecutors, Terry Rozier and others exploited insider knowledge about player injuries and game absences to place strategic bets on NBA outcomes. The indictment outlines seven games between 2023 and 2024 where hundreds of thousands of dollars were wagered illegally. Authorities allege Rozier used confidential player information — often obtained through personal relationships — to ensure bets would pay off. Interim US Attorney Joseph Nocella said the defendants “misused their access and friendships within the league to corrupt the integrity of professional basketball.” Rozier’s lawyer, however, denies all allegations, insisting his client will contest the charges in court. The Poker-Cheating OperationThe second indictment details a high-stakes poker ring tied to New York’s powerful mafia groups — including the Bonanno, Gambino, Lucchese, and Genovese crime families. Prosecutors claim games were rigged using X-ray poker tables and fake shuffling machines, allowing participants to cheat unsuspecting victims out of more than $7 million. Chauncey Billups was allegedly used as a “face card,” or celebrity lure, to attract wealthy players to the fraudulent poker games. Former player Damon Jones is accused of both supplying insider betting information and helping coordinate poker events. Organised Crime LinksAuthorities say the operation was backed by members of La Cosa Nostra — the long-established Italian-American mafia network. Thirteen associates of the Five Families have also been charged for roles in extortion, money laundering, and facilitating the games. Who’s Involved? Chauncey Billups: Accused of serving as a public draw for the poker ring and participating in multiple games. Terry Rozier: Allegedly provided injury and lineup details for betting schemes. Damon Jones: Accused of insider information leaks and acting as a recruiter for poker games. Fallout for the NBAThe revelations have sparked widespread outrage among fans and players, raising questions about the NBA’s integrity and its handling of sports betting partnerships. League officials have not yet issued formal statements, though sources say internal investigations are underway. The scandal marks one of the most damaging moments in modern US sports history — intertwining professional basketball, organised crime, and gambling in a case that federal agents say “reads like a Hollywood screenplay — but with real victims, real money, and real consequences.”

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Lionel Messi Extends Inter Miami Contract Through 2028

Lionel Messi Extends Inter Miami Contract Through 2028

Lionel Messi will remain with Inter Miami through the 2028 MLS season after signing a contract extension, the club announced Thursday. Messi shared the news on social media with a video of him signing the deal at the club’s new Freedom Park stadium, still under construction, captioned: “He’s Home.” “It makes me really happy to stay here and to continue with this project that, besides being a dream, has become a beautiful reality — playing in this stadium, at Miami Freedom Park,” Messi, 38, said. “Since I arrived in Miami, I’ve been very happy, so I’m truly glad to keep going here.” Co-owner David Beckham praised Messi’s dedication, saying: “He’s still as committed as he’s ever been and he still wants to win. To have a player that loves the game as much as he does, and who has done so much to inspire the next generation in this country, we feel very lucky.” Messi joined Inter Miami in 2023 after an unsettled period at Paris Saint-Germain, having spent most of his career at Barcelona, where he won 10 La Liga titles and four UEFA Champions League trophies. Internationally, he led Argentina to the 2022 World Cup title and has scored 114 international goals, along with two Copa America wins in 2021 and 2024. The extension ensures Messi will continue playing well beyond the 2026 World Cup, set to take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. He could appear in a sixth World Cup, potentially setting a record, and is three goals shy of Miroslav Klose’s all-time World Cup scoring record. Argentina qualified comfortably for the 2026 tournament, with Messi finishing as South America’s top scorer with eight goals. In MLS, Messi has continued to shine, earning 2024 MVP honors, becoming the fastest player to reach 40 MLS goals in 2025, and leading Inter Miami back into the playoffs this season. He capped the regular season with a hat-trick in a 5-2 victory over Nashville SC, finishing with 29 goals in 28 matches to claim the MLS Golden Boot.

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Showmax Premier League Chat with Conor Bradley on Liverpool’s Difficult Run

Ahead of Liverpool’s crucial game against Brentford this weekend, Showmax Premier League caught up with marauding Reds right back Conor Bradley. This wasn’t just a standard chat – Bradley got candid with us about the team’s “emotional” slump after those tough defeats and what it takes for them to pull out of a difficult moment. Liverpool FC right-back Conor Bradley has opened up about the club’s recent difficult run, emphasising that the team’s only path forward is to “stick together and keep fighting.” The Reds suffered four consecutive defeats across all competitions before securing an emphatic 5-1 victory against Eintracht Frankfurt in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday night. Reflecting on the preceding Premier League loss to Manchester United, Bradley admitted the results were hard for everyone at the club. “We’re just trying to recover from it,” Bradley said. “It was a tough setback for Arne Slot and the whole team, but with the group we have, we’re determined to bounce back.” The young defender acknowledged the gravity of the four losses, stressing that the focus must now shift entirely to the upcoming away fixture against Brentford. “I think the focus has to be on beating Brentford. We need to perform on the pitch, that’s the only way.” “Losing four times in a row is never easy, especially for Liverpool – it’s emotional for everyone. But we just have to stick together and keep fighting.” Bradley offered insight into the team’s current struggle, attributing it to collective performance issues. “It’s hard to point fingers. It’s just been a tough period for us. We’re not creating enough chances and we’ve been conceding too many goals,” he explained. “It’s been a difficult spell, but I’m confident we’ll find our rhythm again soon.” Having overcome his own injury setbacks during the pre-season, Bradley spoke about the challenge of finding consistent form. “It’s never easy. When you’re ready to go and then get hit by an injury, it really disrupts your momentum. It’s frustrating, but I’m just trying to get as many games as possible under my belt and help the team wherever I can.” The arrival of several new signings has also brought a period of adjustment to the squad, which Bradley believes requires patience. “Yes, it will definitely take time. Building relationships doesn’t happen overnight, it takes weeks and months,” he said. “But I think the new lads are settling in really well. They’re top players and great people too, so that helps a lot.” He singled out one of the new arrivals, Florian Wirtz, as a player he has best connected with.   “Probably Florian Wirtz. We got to know each other when playing for our national teams against one another crazily enough.” Addressing the frequent comparisons made between himself and fellow right back Jeremy Frimpong, Bradley welcomed the intensity. “Competition is always healthy, it pushes you to be your best. Jeremy’s a great guy and a top player. He’s brought great energy from Germany, and I think that kind of challenge only makes us both stronger.”   “For me, it would be about cementing my place in the team and helping Liverpool win trophies. Whether that’s the Champions League, Premier League, or FA Cup, any silverware would mean a lot. We just have to keep striving, and I believe we can go again even stronger next season.” Watch Liverpool take on Brentford away in the Premier League, LIVE on Showmax Premier League this Saturday at 8pm (WAT). How can fans get Showmax Premier League on their phones? Sign up for the Showmax Premier League mobile plan for N3,600 at www.showmax.com for all the Premier League action.

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2026 WAFCON Race: Super Falcons Seek Comfortable Win over Bénin’s Amazons

The 25,000 -capacity Stade de Kégué in the Togolese capital, Lomè is venue for Friday’s 2026 Women Africa Cup of Nations final qualifying fixture, first leg match between 10-time champions Nigeria and their Bèninoise counterparts, known as Amazons, with the Cup holders seeking a comfortable win that will render the return leg in Nigeria on Tuesday a mere formality.   Head Coach Justine Madugu has a total of 19 players available for the encounter, and has promised his squad will go all out for the goals that will earn it the ticket to a defence of the title won in Morocco this summer. The Kingdom of Morocco will also host next year’s houseparty, where all semi-finalists will collect automatic qualification tickets to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup finals in Brazil.   “We have a team that will go out there and make us proud. Yes, we would have loved to have Jennifer (Echegini) but we do not and we can only pray for her to recover quickly.   “On Friday, we will go out and play our game and seek the goals that will put us in a good stead ahead of the return leg.”   With Echegini out, Madugu is likely to opt for US-based impresario Deborah Abiodun to start, alongside captain Rasheedat Ajibade and Christy Ucheibe in the middle, with Chiamaka Nnadozie (one of the best goalkeepers in the world) marshalling a defence-line of Michelle Alozie, Tosin Demehin, Osinachi Ohale and Ashley Plumptre.   In the fore, Madugu has Esther Okoronkwo (doubtless one of Nigeria’s impact players at this year’s Women AFCON), the pushful Chinwendu Ihezuo, six-time Africa Player of the Year Asisat Oshoala, new-face Joy Omewa and China-based Folashade Ijamilusi, who was also a delight as Nigeria won a tenth AFCON title in Morocco this summer.   Gambian official Ngum Fatou will be the referee of the encounter that begins at 3pm Togo time (4pm Nigeria time).   SUPER FALCONS TO FACE AMAZONS:   Goalkeepers: Chiamaka Nnadozie (Brighton Hove & Albion, England); Anderline Mgbechi (Rivers Angels)   Defenders: Osinachi Ohale (Pachucha Club de Futbol, Mexico); Shukurat Oladipo (AS Roma, Italy); Michelle Alozie (Houston Dash, USA); Ashleigh Plumptre (Ittihad Ladies FC, Saudi Arabia); Blessing Ilivieda (Bayelsa Queens); Oluwatosin Demehin (Galatasaray Sportive, Turkey); Miracle Usani (Abia Angels)   Midfielders: Rasheedat Ajibade (Paris Saint Germain, France); Taiwo Afolabi (Rivers Angels); Deborah Abiodun (Washington Spirit, USA); Christy Ucheibe (SL Benfica, Portugal)   Forwards: Chinwendu Ihezuo (Pachucha Club de Futbol, Mexico); Joy Omewa (Fortuna Hjorrin FC, Denmark); Esther Okoronkwo (AFC Toronto, Canada); Asisat Oshoala (Al Hilal FC, Saudi Arabia); Folashade Ijamilusi (Liaoning Shenyang Shenbei Hefeng, China); Kafayat Mafisere (Edo Queens)  

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Chelsea 5–1 Ajax: Blues Thrash 10-Man Dutch Side in Wild First Half to Claim Second Champions League Win

Chelsea 5–1 Ajax: Blues Thrash 10-Man Dutch Side in Wild First Half to Claim Second Champions League Win

Chelsea produced a stunning display at Stamford Bridge, dismantling 10-man Ajax 5–1 in a chaotic first half that featured five goals, three penalties, and a red card — securing their second Champions League victory of the season. Ajax midfielder Kenneth Taylor’s reckless tackle on Facundo Buonanotte in the 17th minute earned him a straight red card, setting the stage for a frenetic opening period that Chelsea completely dominated. With an average starting age of just over 22 years, Enzo Maresca’s youthful side became the first team in Champions League history to have three teenagers — Marc Guiu, Estevao, and Tyrique George — score in the same game. Chelsea made ten changes from their weekend Premier League win over Nottingham Forest, with only Romeo Lavia retaining his place. Moises Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez returned to the lineup, and both quickly made their presence felt. Guiu opened the scoring from close range before Caicedo doubled the lead with a deflected strike from distance. Ajax briefly fought back when Wout Weghorst converted a penalty after Tosin Adarabioyo’s foul on Raul Moro. However, the Dutch striker then conceded a penalty at the other end with a rash challenge on Fernandez, who calmly restored Chelsea’s two-goal cushion from the spot. The chaos continued as Estevao — one of Chelsea’s standout performers — won another penalty before confidently converting it himself after Fernandez handed him the ball. The first half ended 4–1, with the game effectively settled before the interval. Early in the second half, substitute Tyrique George added a fifth for the hosts, his deflected effort putting the result beyond any doubt. Chelsea continued to press, with Jamie Gittens and Estevao going close, but the damage had already been done in a relentless first 45 minutes. After the match, Maresca praised Estevao’s performance, drawing comparisons to former protégé Cole Palmer: “He reminds me of Cole at a similar age — playing wide now, but in time he’ll move inside. He’s humble, polite, and eager to learn, which makes him special.” Sky Sports’ David Richardson described the young side’s performance as a glimpse into Chelsea’s bright future. “It looked more like a Conference League lineup on paper, but the youngsters proved their worth on Europe’s biggest stage. The kids are alright,” he wrote. With four consecutive wins across all competitions, Chelsea’s momentum is growing — and they’re doing it without injured star Cole Palmer. Under Maresca’s guidance, the future looks increasingly bright for the Blues.

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