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Portugal Edge Super Eagles 2–1 as Ronaldo Declares World Cup Readiness After Leiria Thriller

Akor Adams’ equaliser and Okoye’s heroics not enough as Nigeria’s 25-match unbeaten run ends in final warm-up

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2 days ago

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Akor Adams’ equaliser and Okoye’s heroics not enough as Nigeria’s 25-match unbeaten run ends in final warm-up

Portugal defeated the Super Eagles of Nigeria 2–1 at Estádio Dr Magalhães Pessoa, Leiria on Wednesday night, wrapping up their World Cup preparations with a narrow victory that ended Nigeria’s remarkable 25-match unbeaten run under head coach Eric Chelle. Pedro Neto opened the scoring for Portugal in the 23rd minute after Cristiano Ronaldo missed an early chance, but Akor Adams equalised for the Super Eagles before halftime thanks to a Fisayo Dele-Bashiru assist. Francisco Conceicao netted the winner after the break to hand Roberto Martinez’s side a hard-fought win.

The match started with Portugal pressing high, but it was Pedro Neto who finally made their dominance count after Ronaldo failed to convert from close range. Nigeria responded strongly, with Akor Adams grabbing the equaliser before the interval after good work by Fisayo Dele-Bashiru. Goalkeeper Maduka Okoye kept the Super Eagles in contention with several crucial saves, while defenders Semi Ajayi and Calvin Bassey showed composure against Portugal’s attack. Francisco Conceicao restored Portugal’s lead after halftime, and despite late changes by Chelle — including bringing on Frank Onyeka and Raphael Onyedika — Nigeria could not find another breakthrough. Alex Iwobi quietly marked his milestone 100th cap, while Moses Simon was substituted after struggling to make an impact.

For Nigerian fans, this result stings — not just because of the scoreline but because it ends a long period of invincibility stretching back through 16 wins and nine draws. Akor Adams continued to enhance his growing reputation with another goal on the big stage, while Tochukwu Nnadi’s energetic midfield showing offered some positives ahead of future qualifiers.

Cristiano Ronaldo took to Instagram shortly after full-time, posting: “The preparation is done. Eyes on the World Cup.” Neither the Super Eagles coaching staff nor the Nigerian Football Federation had issued a post-match statement at press time.

Next up, Portugal head into Group K of the FIFA World Cup against Democratic Republic of Congo, Colombia and Uzbekistan. The Super Eagles will regroup ahead of their next competitive fixture as coach Chelle looks to rebuild momentum after this setback.

Source: https://punchng.com/ronaldo-declares-portugal-ready-after-nigeria-victory/

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Nigeria Sport (Soft click)

Rooney Calls Out Manchester United Over Scott McTominay Sale and Urges Shock Return

Former United star questions the £26m deal, saying the club may regret letting McTominay go so easily

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15 minutes ago

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June 14, 2026

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Former United star questions the £26m deal, saying the club may regret letting McTominay go so easily

Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney has raised eyebrows by urging his former club to consider re-signing Scott McTominay after what he describes as a questionable £26 million sale. Rooney’s comments come amid growing debate over United’s recent transfer dealings, with fans split on whether the club made the right call letting McTominay leave at that price.

The details of McTominay’s next move, including his destination club or any official reaction from the player himself, were not disclosed in available reports. Rooney, who spent much of his career at Old Trafford and remains one of the club’s most influential voices, did not hold back in his assessment. He argued that United may have acted too quickly and could soon realise they are missing McTominay’s energy and presence in midfield.

For many Manchester United supporters, Rooney’s intervention is a wake-up call. The midfield has been an area of concern for some time, with critics saying United lack physicality and drive in big matches. With key fixtures in both domestic and European competitions ahead, the decision to sell a homegrown player like McTominay for £26 million is already being questioned across fan forums and social media.

Neither Scott McTominay nor Manchester United’s current coaching staff had issued an official statement at press time. However, Rooney’s opinion is likely to spark more debate about the club’s long-term planning. Without fresh signings or a proven replacement lined up, fans are left wondering if this transfer window could haunt their season.

Manchester United’s next Premier League fixture will be crucial as supporters look for signs that the team can cope without McTominay’s contributions. Until then, speculation around possible moves—whether for new arrivals or surprise returns—will remain at fever pitch among the Old Trafford faithful.

VINICIUS SCORES AN EQUALIZER FOR BRAZIL #Viniciusjr #brasil


Source: https://www.pulsesports.ng/story/rooney-urges-man-united-to-re-sign-mctominay-after-questionable-pound26m-sale-2026061410413160836

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FIFA Admit VAR Malfunction in Qatar vs Switzerland Clash, Casting Shadow Over Match Outcome

Technical glitch left officials without video support during key moments—FIFA yet to explain full impact on result

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25 minutes ago

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June 14, 2026

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Technical glitch left officials without video support during key moments—FIFA yet to explain full impact on result

FIFA has officially confirmed a failure of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology during the Qatar versus Switzerland match. The final score and goalscorers were not reported at press time, but the governing body’s admission throws the fairness of the contest into question. The incident occurred during a crucial period of the game, with referees unable to consult VAR for possible errors or contentious decisions.

Details on exactly when or how long the VAR system was down were not provided in available reports. Fans and pundits have raised concerns about whether any critical incidents—such as penalty claims, offsides, or potential red cards—were missed due to the technical fault. Without video support, on-field officials had to make all calls unaided, a rare situation in top-level international football since VAR’s introduction.

For Nigerian fans following global football, this development is a reminder that even at FIFA tournaments, technology is not infallible. It also sparks debate ahead of Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers and other competitions where VAR will be expected to work smoothly. The malfunction could influence future protocols or calls for backup systems at major events.

Neither FIFA nor representatives from either team had issued detailed statements about specific incidents affected by the outage at press time. There is also no confirmation on whether an official review or replay has been considered as a result of the VAR failure.

The next round of fixtures for both Qatar and Switzerland will go ahead as planned, but fans and officials alike will be watching closely to see if FIFA introduces new safeguards to prevent similar controversies.

VINICIUS SCORES AN EQUALIZER FOR BRAZIL #Viniciusjr #brasil


Source: https://www.pulsesports.ng/story/fifa-confirm-var-technology-failure-during-the-qatar-against-switzerland-match-2026061410345310602

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England Squad Forced to Flee as Tornado Storm Disrupts World Cup Base

Severe weather sent England players running for cover, halting their World Cup preparations in dramatic fashion

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30 minutes ago

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June 14, 2026

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Severe weather sent England players running for cover, halting their World Cup preparations in dramatic fashion

England’s World Cup campaign preparations took an unexpected turn as a severe tornado storm struck their team base, forcing the entire squad and staff to run for safety. The incident occurred at the team’s training facility, but the exact location and date were not specified in available reports. There is no information on injuries or damage to property at press time.

The sudden storm reportedly hit with little warning, sending players and officials scrambling off the pitch and into designated safe zones. Training was immediately suspended, and emergency protocols were activated to ensure everyone’s safety. No further details about how long the disruption lasted or when normal activities resumed were provided.

For fans of the Three Lions, this weather scare comes at a critical time, with England working to fine-tune tactics ahead of their next World Cup fixture. Such interruptions can affect team rhythm and preparation, raising questions about whether the squad will be fully ready for upcoming matches.

Neither England’s coaching staff nor the Football Association had issued a public statement regarding the storm incident at press time. Updates from official sources are still awaited.

England’s next World Cup fixture details were not confirmed in available reports. Supporters will be watching closely to see how quickly Gareth Southgate’s men can regroup after this unexpected setback.

VINICIUS SCORES AN EQUALIZER FOR BRAZIL #Viniciusjr #brasil


Source: https://www.pulsesports.ng/story/england-squad-run-to-safety-as-severe-tornado-storm-hit-world-cup-base-2026061410253209898

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