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Haaland’s Brace Sends Norway Into World Cup Knockout as Senegal Risk Early Elimination

Senegal must defeat Iraq in their final group game to avoid first-round exit after 3-2 loss in New Jersey

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Senegal must defeat Iraq in their final group game to avoid first-round exit after 3-2 loss in New Jersey

Erling Haaland scored twice on Monday night to secure a 3-2 victory for Norway against Senegal in New Jersey, confirming the Scandinavian side’s place in the FIFA World Cup last 32 with a match left to play. The win leaves Senegal needing to beat Iraq in their final group fixture to stand any chance of progressing beyond the group stage.

The encounter saw Norway take the lead just before half-time through substitute Marcus Holmgren Pedersen. Haaland then doubled the advantage shortly after the break, capitalising on defensive lapses from Senegal. Ismaila Sarr pulled one back for the African champions, but Haaland responded almost immediately with his second goal, restoring Norway’s two-goal cushion. Sarr netted again late on for Senegal, but it proved only a consolation as Norway held on for all three points.

Haaland’s remarkable performance brings his tournament tally to four goals in just two matches and increases his overall international total to 59 goals from 52 appearances. The Manchester City striker’s form is drawing comparisons with Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe, both of whom also scored braces earlier in the day for their respective teams. Norway now sit atop their group and will face France next in Boston on Friday, with both teams vying for first place.

Senegal’s defeat puts them under pressure ahead of their clash with Iraq, who are yet to register a point at this tournament. Only a win will keep Senegal’s hopes alive for reaching the knockout rounds. Norwegian coach and players expressed satisfaction with their qualification, while Senegalese officials urged supporters not to lose hope as preparations begin for what could be a decisive final group game.

With Nigeria’s Super Eagles preparing for their own crucial fixtures later this week, African football fans will be watching closely to see if Senegal can revive their World Cup campaign and join other continental representatives in the next round.

Source: https://guardian.ng/sport/football/haaland-fires-norway-into-last-32-as-senegal-face-early-exit/

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Nigeria News (Standard)

NDC Candidate Rejects Enugu North Bye-Election Result, Alleges Irregularities

Opposition candidate demands cancellation as INEC declares winner; calls for investigation into alleged electoral malpractice

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28 minutes ago

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June 23, 2026

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Opposition candidate demands cancellation as INEC declares winner; calls for investigation into alleged electoral malpractice

The candidate of the New Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Enugu North Federal Constituency bye-election has rejected the outcome of the poll conducted on Tuesday, June 23, in Enugu State. The NDC flagbearer described the election result as unacceptable and alleged that irregularities marred the process.

According to reports from the constituency, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) concluded collation late Tuesday and declared a winner in the tightly contested bye-election. However, the NDC candidate swiftly condemned both the conduct and outcome, insisting that several incidents of malpractice were recorded at various polling units.

The Enugu North Federal Constituency bye-election was closely watched, given its significance for party representation in the National Assembly from South-East Nigeria. The contest drew heightened attention after previous court rulings nullified earlier results and mandated a fresh poll. Many constituents and political observers saw this rerun as an opportunity to restore credibility to local representation.

In a statement released after INEC’s announcement, the NDC candidate expressed disappointment with what he called ‘widespread irregularities’ during voting and counting. He called for immediate cancellation of the declared result and urged INEC to launch a full investigation into alleged ballot box snatching and voter intimidation. As at press time, no response had been received from INEC officials or other party representatives regarding these allegations.

It remains unclear whether the NDC will formally challenge the result in court. Political analysts note that electoral disputes have become increasingly common in South-East constituencies, often leading to prolonged legal battles and delays in effective representation. Stakeholders are calling on relevant authorities to address concerns raised by aggrieved parties in order to strengthen public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral system.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/889957-ndc-candidate-rejects-enugu-north-bye-election-result.html

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Nigeria News (Standard)

Nigerians Protest Delay in Evacuation at Pretoria Embassy as June 30 Deadline Approaches

Federal Government says five flights approved, but stranded citizens fear rising xenophobia and demand immediate action

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June 23, 2026

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Federal Government says five flights approved, but stranded citizens fear rising xenophobia and demand immediate action

Hundreds of Nigerians stranded in South Africa staged a protest at the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria on Sunday, demanding urgent evacuation ahead of a June 30 deadline set by anti-immigrant groups. The demonstrators, many of whom had registered for government-assisted repatriation, chanted, “We wan go o, we no go gree,” expressing frustration over delays in scheduled evacuation flights.

The protest comes as anxiety grows within the Nigerian community in South Africa following months of anti-migrant demonstrations and threats from local groups targeting foreigners. The Federal Government began repatriating willing Nigerians earlier in June, with the first evacuation flight carrying 268 returnees landing in Lagos on June 11. However, subsequent flights have faced postponements, leaving over 1,000 registered Nigerians still awaiting their turn.

The President of the Nigerian Union South Africa (NUSA), Smart Nwobi, said about 300 citizens were left stranded after a planned second flight was cancelled at the last minute. “Many had gathered at the mission ready to leave before being informed that the flight would not depart,” Nwobi stated. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has attributed the delays to documentation and verification processes being conducted with South African authorities.

Minister of Foreign Affairs Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu assured affected Nigerians that Government remains committed to their safe return and has approved five evacuation flights to bring everyone home. “No Nigerian willing to return will be abandoned,” Odumegwu-Ojukwu said during a press briefing last week. Crisis response units have also been established in Pretoria and Johannesburg to coordinate support for those affected.

With the June 30 deadline drawing near, many stranded citizens say they are increasingly concerned for their safety and have called on Abuja to speed up repatriation efforts before tensions escalate further. Meanwhile, officials continue negotiations with South African authorities on documentation requirements to facilitate smooth departures.

Source: https://www.pulse.ng/story/we-wan-go-o-we-no-go-gree-stranded-nigerians-in-south-africa-demand-immediate-evacuation-from-south-africa-as-june-30-deadline-looms-2026062309592633142

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Nigeria News (Standard)

Abuja Court Lists 30 Witnesses to Testify Against Suspected Coup Plotters

Prosecution prepares for high-profile trial as Federal Capital Territory remains on alert after recent security concerns

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28 minutes ago

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June 23, 2026

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Prosecution prepares for high-profile trial as Federal Capital Territory remains on alert after recent security concerns

A court in Abuja has listed 30 witnesses set to testify against a group of individuals accused of plotting a coup in Nigeria, with proceedings expected to commence in the coming days. The development comes as security agencies intensify surveillance across the Federal Capital Territory and other strategic locations nationwide.

According to court documents obtained on Tuesday, June 23, the prosecution has submitted a comprehensive list of witnesses believed to have knowledge of the alleged plot. The suspects, who were arrested earlier this month, are facing charges related to conspiracy and attempts to subvert constitutional order. The specific identities of the witnesses have not been made public, but officials say they include security operatives and civilian informants.

The case is significant given Nigeria’s history with military interventions and comes at a time when President Bola Tinubu’s administration is under pressure to maintain stability amid political and economic challenges. In the past, similar trials have drawn attention from both local and international observers concerned about democratic governance in West Africa’s most populous country.

While authorities have yet to issue an official statement regarding the full details of the charges or evidence against the accused persons, sources within security agencies maintain that due process will be followed. Efforts to reach defence counsel for comment were unsuccessful as at press time.

The court is expected to convene preliminary hearings next week, with legal analysts predicting that the outcome could set important precedents for handling alleged threats against Nigeria’s constitutional order. Security around key government institutions in Abuja remains tight, reflecting ongoing caution by law enforcement agencies.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/headlines/889960-exclusive-30-witnesses-to-testify-against-suspected-nigerian-coup-plotters-full-list.html

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