Football
NIGERIA SUPER FALCONS CAPTAIN ONOME EBI QUITS PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALL
Onome Ebi, the legendary captain of Nigeria’s Super Falcons, has announced her retirement from professional football, concluding a stellar career spanning over two decades. The 42-year-old defender earned a record 109 caps for Nigeria, winning four Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) titles and making history as the first African footballer – male or female – to appear in six FIFA Women’s World Cup tournaments, with her last appearance in Australia and New Zealand in 2023.
In an emotional tribute, her teammates said: “On behalf of every member of the Super Falcons, we extend our deepest gratitude to you, Captain Onome Ebi, for your extraordinary service and leadership over the past two decades… You have been more than a captain. You’ve been a trailblazer who paved the way for this generation of players.” They praised her resilience and legacy, stating, “Your promise to mentor and uplift young African footballers ensures your impact will echo for generations. Thank you, Onome, for being our hero. Cheers to a legacy that will never fade!”
Reflecting on her journey, Ebi wrote: “Today, I officially retire from professional football. The journey has been filled with challenges, victories, and lessons that shaped me into who I am today. Though I hang up my boots, my purpose in the game continues to give back, to guide, and to be a voice for players.”
Ebi’s illustrious career saw her represent clubs in Nigeria, Sweden, Turkey, China, and Spain, becoming a symbol of consistency and leadership. Her retirement marks the end of an era for Nigerian women’s football.
Manchester City claimed the 2026 Carabao Cup title with a convincing 2–0 victory over Arsenal at Wembley Stadium on Sunday, delivering a major blow to Arsenal’s silverware ambitions this season.
After a cagey first half, City turned up the intensity in the second period, with young star Nico O’Reilly emerging as the hero. The midfielder scored twice in quick succession, first capitalizing on a costly error from goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga before heading in a second just minutes later to seal the win.
Arsenal, who came into the final as favourites and Premier League leaders, struggled to convert possession into clear chances. Their best effort came late in the game when they struck the crossbar, but it proved too little to mount a comeback.
The defeat not only ended Arsenal’s hopes of securing a historic quadruple but has also reignited criticism of manager Mikel Arteta’s decision-making; particularly his choice to start Kepa ahead of first-choice goalkeeper David Raya.
Pundits and fans alike were quick to question Arsenal’s mentality on the big stage, with some commentators reviving the long-standing “bottlers” label, suggesting the team once again failed to deliver in a crucial final.
Meanwhile, City’s triumph marks their ninth League Cup title and another milestone for manager Pep Guardiola, reinforcing their reputation as serial winners despite trailing Arsenal in the Premier League standings.
For Arsenal, attention now shifts to their remaining competitions, but this loss could have lasting psychological implications in their pursuit of major trophies this season.
FC Barcelona secured a hard-fought victory over Rayo Vallecano, thanks to a decisive header from Ronald Araujo and a standout goalkeeping performance by Inaki Pena Garcia.
In a tightly contested La Liga clash, Barcelona struggled to break down a resilient Rayo side that maintained defensive discipline throughout much of the game. Despite dominating possession, the Catalan giants found clear-cut chances hard to come by in the early stages.
The breakthrough eventually came in the second half when Araujo rose highest to meet a well-delivered set-piece, powering a header past the Rayo goalkeeper to give Barcelona the lead. The goal proved decisive in a match where margins were slim.
Rayo Vallecano responded with increased attacking intent, pressing forward in search of an equalizer. However, Barcelona’s goalkeeper Garcia emerged as a key figure, producing a series of crucial saves to deny the visitors. His composure and reflexes under pressure ensured that Barcelona held on to their narrow advantage.
Barcelona’s defence, marshalled effectively in the closing stages, managed to withstand Rayo’s late push, securing all three points in a match that tested their resilience.
The victory strengthens Barcelona’s position in the league standings, while Rayo Vallecano will rue missed opportunities after a spirited performance.
Everton delivered a dominant performance to defeat Chelsea 3–0 in their Premier League clash on Saturday, piling further pressure on the London side’s struggling campaign.
Playing at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, Everton took control of the game and capitalised on defensive lapses from Chelsea to secure a convincing victory. Beto was the standout performer, scoring twice; first in the 33rd minute and again shortly after the hour mark to give the hosts a firm grip on the contest.
The home side sealed the win late in the second half when Iliman Ndiaye added a third goal with a fine finish, capping an impressive attacking display.
Chelsea struggled to respond throughout the match despite enjoying spells of possession. Their attacking efforts lacked sharpness, while defensive errors proved costly, extending their poor run of form. The defeat marks their fourth consecutive loss across competitions, raising concerns about consistency and tactical direction.
Everton, on the other hand, continue to build momentum, with back-to-back home wins boosting their hopes of securing a European qualification spot.
The result also narrows the gap between both sides in the league standings, intensifying the race for continental football places.