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John Terry Says Super Eagles’ World Cup Miss Is a Blow as DR Congo Edge Nigeria in Dramatic Qualifier

Ex-England captain believes Nigeria’s absence leaves a gap, with DR Congo advancing after tense penalty shootout

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Ex-England captain believes Nigeria’s absence leaves a gap, with DR Congo advancing after tense penalty shootout

Former England and Chelsea captain John Terry has described Nigeria’s absence from the 2026 FIFA World Cup as a major loss for the global tournament, following the Super Eagles’ painful defeat to the Democratic Republic of Congo in the CAF playoff final. The match, which was decided by penalties after Nigeria’s earlier win over Gabon, ended Super Eagles’ hopes of returning to football’s biggest stage.

The decisive playoff saw Eric Chelle’s men keep their World Cup dream alive by beating Gabon in the semi-finals, but they could not overcome DR Congo when it mattered most. The clash finished level after regulation time before Nigeria lost out in the penalty shootout. Specific score details and names of goalscorers or penalty takers were not reported at press time. As a result, South Africa secured automatic qualification from Group C, while DR Congo took Africa’s final spot at the expense of the Super Eagles.

For Nigerian fans, this marks a second consecutive World Cup absence after also failing to qualify for Qatar 2022. Hopes of a late reprieve were dashed when the Nigeria Football Federation’s appeal against DR Congo—over alleged use of ineligible players—was dismissed by tournament organisers. This result prolongs frustration for supporters and raises tough questions about the team’s future direction under Chelle.

Terry, speaking during a virtual roundtable organised by SuperSport, told The PUNCH that Nigeria deserved to be at the tournament given their pedigree and talent: “Nigeria will be a big miss. I would have loved to see a top team like Nigeria there because they’ve got some great individuals… They’re a great nation.” He added that former Super Eagles captain John Mikel Obi was “very upset” about missing out on both the pitch and commentary opportunities. No statement had been issued by the Super Eagles coaching staff or the Nigerian Football Federation at press time regarding next steps.

The 2026 World Cup kicks off today with co-hosts Mexico facing South Africa at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City—a rematch of their famous 1–1 opener from 2010. For Nigerian football, attention now turns to upcoming AFCON qualifiers and rebuilding confidence ahead of future international campaigns.

Source: https://punchng.com/nigerias-world-cup-absence-a-big-miss-terry/

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Nigeria Sport (Soft click)

Quinones Strikes Early as Mexico Edge Ahead of South Africa in 2026 World Cup Opener at Azteca

Julian Quinones scored in the ninth minute before 80,000 fans as the expanded tournament began with drama in Mexico City

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June 11, 2026

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Julian Quinones scored in the ninth minute before 80,000 fans as the expanded tournament began with drama in Mexico City

Mexico took the first step at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, grabbing an early lead over South Africa thanks to a ninth-minute goal from Julian Quinones at Estadio Azteca, Mexico City, on Thursday night. The final score was not reported at press time, but Quinones’ quick strike ensured the co-hosts seized momentum in front of a packed stadium that famously hosted the 1970 and 1986 finals.

From the start, Mexico pressed hard and got their reward when Quinones finished off a move inside the opening ten minutes. The atmosphere was electric as fans filled every seat for this historic opener in the world’s biggest World Cup yet, featuring 48 teams. The opening ceremony raised the roof with performances from Colombian superstar Shakira and Nigeria’s own Burna Boy, who delivered “Dai Dai,” the official tournament anthem. However, excitement outside turned chaotic as fans jostled to enter the official fan zone in central Mexico City before kick-off.

For Super Eagles supporters watching from home, this opener sets the stage for a tournament that could rewrite football history. With Nigeria aiming to progress deep into the competition after recent AFCON heartbreaks, all eyes will be on how Finidi George’s squad respond when their own campaign gets underway amid record-breaking global attention and revenues projected to hit $13 billion.

Neither the Super Eagles coaching staff nor any Nigerian Football Federation official had issued a statement at press time regarding Nigeria’s prospects or reactions to opening ceremony events. FIFA president Gianni Infantino defended ticket pricing and addressed visa concerns but avoided specific comment on match outcomes or African team preparations.

The next matchday will see other heavyweights begin their campaigns as group fixtures continue across North America. The Super Eagles are scheduled to play their first group match later this week; date and venue details were not confirmed in available reports.

Source: https://punchng.com/2026-world-cup-kicks-off-with-mexico-taking-early-advantage-over-safrica/

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Jose Mourinho Returns as Real Madrid Head Coach — What This Shock Comeback Means for Los Blancos

The Portuguese tactician is back at the Bernabeu, but Real Madrid are yet to confirm contract details or his first assignment.

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30 minutes ago

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June 11, 2026

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The Portuguese tactician is back at the Bernabeu, but Real Madrid are yet to confirm contract details or his first assignment.

Jose Mourinho has officially returned as Real Madrid head coach, marking a dramatic comeback to the Spanish giants. The announcement was made on Tuesday, but key details such as the terms of Mourinho’s contract and the immediate plans for his new tenure were not disclosed in the available reports.

Mourinho’s return signals a major shift at the Bernabeu. The Portuguese manager previously led Real Madrid from 2010 to 2013, winning LaLiga and breaking Barcelona’s dominance during that era. His second coming is expected to inject fresh energy into a squad hungry for more silverware, but supporters will be eager to know which players he’ll retain or move on and whether he can deliver immediate results.

For Nigerian football fans, Mourinho’s appointment is big news — many Super Eagles players and African stars have featured in LaLiga under his watch. The move also raises questions about how Real Madrid will challenge for both domestic and European honours next season.

Neither Jose Mourinho nor Real Madrid club officials had issued public statements at press time. Fans across social media have been reacting with excitement and curiosity about what tactical changes the ‘Special One’ might introduce on his return.

Real Madrid’s next official fixture, including Mourinho’s first match back in charge, was not confirmed in available reports. Supporters will be watching closely for further updates from the club as pre-season approaches.

Source: https://www.pulsesports.ng/story/official-jose-mourinho-returns-as-real-madrid-head-coach-2026061119145344271

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World Cup Stars Among Three Manchester United Players Face Trouble Over Speeding Offences

Two Red Devils with World Cup experience are now under scrutiny as speeding allegations hit the squad

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2 hours ago

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June 11, 2026

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Two Red Devils with World Cup experience are now under scrutiny as speeding allegations hit the squad

Three Manchester United players, including two who have represented their countries at the World Cup, are reportedly in hot water over alleged speeding offences. The exact details of the incidents, including the names of the players involved, locations, and specific dates, were not provided in available reports at press time.

According to initial coverage, the Premier League giants now face increased attention as authorities look into these allegations. The situation has sparked discussions about player discipline off the pitch and how such matters could affect Manchester United’s image going forward. No official statement has been released by Manchester United or any of the players’ representatives regarding these alleged offences.

For Nigerian fans of the Red Devils, this development adds a fresh layer of drama to an already eventful season. With several key players regularly featuring in international tournaments such as the FIFA World Cup, any disciplinary issues off the pitch naturally raise concerns about potential suspensions or club sanctions that might impact squad depth ahead of crucial fixtures.

Neither Manchester United management nor the English Football Association had issued a formal response at press time. It also remains unclear if any Premier League action will be taken pending further investigation.

Manchester United’s next fixture is yet to be affected by these developments, but fans will be watching closely for updates before their upcoming match. Any new information or official statements will likely influence both team selection and public perception as events unfold.

Source: https://www.pulsesports.ng/story/two-world-cup-stars-among-3-man-u-players-land-in-hot-water-over-speeding-offences-2026061116530299231

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