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World Cup 2026 Preview: France, Argentina Shine In Pre-Tournament Friendlies

Ayomitunde Adeyemi
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World Cup 2026 Preview: France, Argentina Shine In Pre-Tournament Friendlies

The recent international break saw several countries play friendly matches as preparations continue for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup in the summer. With only a few months left before the tournament, coaches used these matches to test new players, experiment with tactics, and identify their strongest squads. While some countries impressed with strong performances, others struggled and exposed weaknesses they must fix before the World Cup begins.

France Show Strength and Squad Depth

One of the most impressive teams during the international friendlies was France. They recorded strong wins, including a victory over Brazil and another convincing performance against Colombia. What stood out most was their squad depth, as they rotated players and still performed at a high level.

This shows that France are not just relying on one group of players but have multiple options in different positions, which is very important in a long tournament like the World Cup.

Argentina Continue Winning Mentality

Argentina also continued their strong form with a friendly win as they prepare to defend their World Cup title. The team used the match to test new players while still maintaining their winning mentality and tactical structure.

Argentina look organized and confident, and many analysts believe they will once again be one of the strongest teams at the tournament.

Croatia and Tunisia Record Positive Results

Croatia also impressed with a win over Colombia, showing experience and tactical discipline, while Tunisia recorded a victory in their friendly as African teams continued preparations for the tournament.

These matches are particularly important for smaller nations, as they use them to build team chemistry and confidence before facing stronger teams at the World Cup.

Colombia Poor Run of Results

Colombia had a difficult international break, losing to both France and Croatia. The team struggled defensively and failed to control games, which could be a concern heading into the World Cup.

If they do not improve quickly, they may find it difficult to compete against stronger teams in the tournament.

United States Also Disappoint

The United States also had disappointing results in their friendlies, including a heavy defeat that exposed defensive weaknesses. Coaches often say friendlies are for experimenting, but poor results can still affect confidence before a major tournament.

Why International Friendlies Are Important Before the World Cup

International friendlies before a major tournament are not just about winning matches. They are mainly used for:
• Testing new players
• Trying different formations
• Building team chemistry
• Deciding the final squad
• Preparing players for tournament intensity

Most coaches use these matches to answer one big question: What is my strongest starting eleven before the World Cup begins?

These March friendlies were especially important because they were one of the last international windows before the World Cup, meaning many teams are now close to deciding their final squads.

Conclusion

Overall, the recent international friendlies gave a small preview of what to expect at the World Cup this summer. Teams like France, Argentina, Croatia, and Tunisia looked strong and organized, while teams like Colombia and the United States still have problems to fix.

As the World Cup gets closer, these friendly matches will play a major role in helping coaches choose their best players and strongest lineups, and the next international break could be the final chance for many players to secure their place in the World Cup squad.

APC Convention: Yilwatda Emerges Chairman, Basiru Secretary

Tosin Onisuuru
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APC Convention: Yilwatda Emerges Chairman, Basiru Secretary

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has announced a new set of national officers following its convention, with Nentawe Yilwatda emerging as National Chairman and Ajibola Basiru as National Secretary.

In other key appointments, Dr. Mary A. Idele was elected National Women Leader, while Dayo Israel secured the position of National Youth Leader. Aare Durotolu Oyebode Bankole was named National Leader for Persons with Disabilities.

Several deputy positions were also filled during the exercise. Hammam Adamu Ali Kumo emerged as Deputy National Financial Secretary, Barr. Emeka Okafor as Deputy National Organising Secretary, and Zainab Abubakar Ibrahim as Deputy National Women Leader. Hon. Meseko Durosinmi Josiah was elected Deputy National Publicity Secretary, while Dr. Christopher Michael Akpan became Deputy National Welfare Secretary.

Other appointments include Mr. Olugbenga Olayemi as Deputy National Auditor, Barr. Ibrahim Salawu as Deputy National Legal Adviser, and Engr. Ben Akak as Deputy National Treasurer. Jamaludeen Kabiru was named Deputy National Youth Leader.

Zonal representatives were also announced, including Bunmi (North Central), Adamu Jallah (North East), Muhammed Jamu Yusuf (North West), Hon. Ikechukwu Umeh (South East), Mr. Francis Kolokolo (South South), and Hon. Bunmi Orinowo (South West), reflecting the party’s effort to maintain regional balance within its leadership structure.

Kano Woman Dies After Delivering Quintuplets At Specialist Hospital

Tosin Onisuuru
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Kano Woman Dies After Delivering Quintuplets At Specialist Hospital

A woman in Kano, identified as Hafsatu Yusuf, has died after giving birth to quintuplets at the Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital.

The Kano State Ministry of Health confirmed the incident on Thursday through its Public Relations Officer, Nabilusi Abubakar, who said the woman passed away at about 2 p.m. at the hospital.

According to Abubakar, Yusuf experienced persistent bleeding following the delivery of the five babies, three boys and two girls. Despite efforts by medical personnel to stabilise her condition, she did not survive.

He added that the newborns are in stable condition and are currently receiving medical care at the facility.

The development comes shortly after the Kano State Government announced it had assumed responsibility for the medical expenses of both the mother and her quintuplets following the rare delivery.

Meta and YouTube Face Landmark Liability Ruling Over Youth Harm

Tosin Onisuuru
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Meta and YouTube Face Landmark Liability Ruling Over Youth Harm

In a historic legal decision that could reshape the future of Big Tech accountability, a jury in Los Angeles has found Meta and YouTube liable for harm caused to a young user through the design of their social media platforms.

The case, widely seen as a test of whether technology companies can be held responsible for the psychological effects of their products, centred on a 20-year-old plaintiff identified only as KGM. She argued that prolonged exposure to Instagram and YouTube from childhood contributed significantly to her mental health struggles, including depression and anxiety.

After weeks of testimony and deliberations, the jury ruled that both companies were negligent, concluding that their platforms were intentionally designed in ways that encouraged compulsive use. Jurors also found that the companies failed to provide adequate warnings about the potential risks associated with prolonged engagement.

The court awarded the plaintiff $6 million in damages, with Meta bearing the larger share of the liability. The verdict marks the first time a jury has held major social media platforms legally accountable for youth addiction-related harm.

Legal experts say the ruling could open the floodgates for further litigation, with more than a thousand similar cases already lined up in U.S. courts. Advocates have compared the growing legal pressure on social media companies to past lawsuits against the tobacco industry, arguing that both involve products allegedly designed to foster dependency despite known risks.

Meta and YouTube have denied wrongdoing and are expected to appeal the decision, maintaining that mental health outcomes are influenced by a range of factors beyond social media use.

The outcome of the case is likely to intensify global conversations around online safety, particularly for minors, and may accelerate regulatory efforts aimed at imposing stricter controls on how digital platforms are designed and operated.

Barcelona Thrash Real Madrid, Bayern Edge Manchester United in Women’s Champions League Quarter-Finals

Ayomitunde Adeyemi
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Barcelona Thrash Real Madrid, Bayern Edge Manchester United in Women’s Champions League Quarter-Finals

The quarter-final stage of the UEFA Women’s Champions League delivered an exciting night of football as Barcelona produced a dominant performance in the Spanish derby, while Bayern Munich secured a narrow but important victory over Manchester United. Both matches were first-leg fixtures, meaning the ties are still open ahead of the decisive second legs.

Barcelona Dominate Real Madrid in Spanish Derby

FC Barcelona Femení took a huge step towards the semi-finals after a commanding 6–2 victory over Real Madrid Femenino. Barcelona once again showed their dominance in the Women’s Clásico, producing a powerful attacking display that overwhelmed their rivals.

Barcelona were sharp in attack and clinical in front of goal, scoring multiple times to build a comfortable advantage before the second leg. Real Madrid managed to score twice, but they struggled defensively against Barcelona’s attacking quality and movement. The result puts Barcelona in a very strong position to qualify for the semi-finals unless Real Madrid can produce a major comeback in the return leg.

The Spanish champions have been one of the strongest teams in Europe in recent years, and this performance reinforced their status as one of the favourites to win the competition again this season.

Bayern Munich Secure Narrow Win Over Manchester United

In the other quarter-final played the same night, FC Bayern Munich Women defeated Manchester United Women 3–2 in an entertaining match at Old Trafford.

The game was closely contested, with both teams creating chances and scoring important goals throughout the match. Bayern Munich took the lead more than once, while Manchester United fought back each time to keep the tie alive. However, Bayern eventually scored the decisive goal to secure a narrow first-leg advantage heading into the second leg in Germany.

Despite the defeat, Manchester United still have a chance to qualify for the semi-finals, but they will need a strong performance away from home in the second leg.

Quarter-Final Race Still Open

With the first-leg matches completed, Barcelona and Bayern Munich now hold the advantage in their respective ties. However, the second legs will determine which teams progress to the semi-finals of the Women’s Champions League.

Barcelona are in a very comfortable position after their big win over Real Madrid, while the tie between Bayern Munich and Manchester United remains closely balanced and could still go either way. The second-leg matches are expected to be decisive as teams continue their push for European glory.

Nigerians Can Expect Improved Power Supply Within Two Weeks — Power Ministry Aide

Tosin Onisuuru
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Nigerians Can Expect Improved Power Supply Within Two Weeks — Power Ministry Aide

The Chief Technical Adviser to the Adebayo Adelabu‑led Ministry of Power, Adebayo Olowoniyi, says Nigerians should begin to see gradual improvement in electricity supply as maintenance work on a major gas pipeline nears completion, with full restoration expected within two weeks.

Olowoniyi made the remarks on Thursday during an appearance on Arise TV, shortly after the minister issued a public apology for recent persistent power outages that have affected homes, businesses, schools, and industries nationwide.

Defending Adelabu’s apology, the adviser said it reflects strong leadership rather than an admission of personal fault.

“I think, first of all, I’d like to start with the apology from the Honourable Minister, which we believe is all about taking leadership in the sector.

“Not necessarily directly his fault for the challenges that we have, but as the Minister of Power, he just took—it was the right leadership step to say, okay, I take ownership of this issue, and I’m going to prefer a solution that would ensure power supply comes back in the shortest available time,” Olowoniyi said.

He explained that the current crisis was largely driven by disruptions to a key gas pipeline that supplies fuel to power plants, noting that about 75 per cent of Nigeria’s electricity generation depends on gas.

“One of the major gas pipelines in Nigeria was undergoing maintenance, and gradually that process is being completed. We’re sure that within the next two weeks, full gas pressure will be back on the gas pipelines, and the power plants will be able to get enough gas at least to go back to their level of generation that they had in the last two to three months,” he said.

Olowoniyi expressed confidence that the recovery process has already begun, saying improvements will be gradual but steady.

“I would already say that from yesterday, we would have gradually started to see some improvement as the pressure on the pipeline gradually starts to build up, and we will see continuous improvement over the next couple of weeks,” he added.

The update follows Adelabu’s public apology in Abuja on Tuesday, in which he explained that the outages were caused by factors beyond the government’s immediate control but reiterated the firm two‑week timeline for recovery.

“I can tell you, with the committee that we have set up, and commitments from gas suppliers, and the timeline for repair of the gas pipelines, two weeks from now, we should start seeing improvements in supply. Two weeks,” Adelabu had said.

The minister also reaffirmed the Federal Government’s goal of increasing electricity generation to 6,000 megawatts before the end of 2026, describing the current disruption as a temporary setback.

Nigeria’s power sector has long grappled with inadequate gas supply, ageing infrastructure, transmission bottlenecks, and persistent liquidity challenges across the value chain.

Day 25: War Rages On As U.S.–Iran Talks Remain Uncertain

Tosin Onisuuru
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Day 25: War Rages On As U.S.–Iran Talks Remain Uncertain

The conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran has entered its 25th day, with mixed signals over possible diplomacy even as fighting continues to escalate.

An Iranian source told CNN that Washington has made recent “outreach” to Tehran, adding that Iran is open to considering “suitable” proposals that could bring the war to an end. However, no formal negotiations are currently underway.

The comments mark a shift in tone, coming just a day after Iran’s Foreign Ministry firmly denied any talks with Washington. The denial directly contradicts claims by Donald Trump, who said the two sides had reached “major points of agreement” during discussions over the weekend.

Conflicting Claims and Rising Tensions

Iranian officials have dismissed Trump’s claims as misleading, suggesting they were aimed at stabilizing global energy markets and buying time for potential military action. A senior adviser to Iran’s leadership warned that the war would continue until the country receives full compensation for damages suffered.

Meanwhile, Trump has temporarily stepped back from a previous threat to strike Iran’s power grid. The U.S. president had issued a 48-hour ultimatum tied to the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz but later announced a five-day pause, citing progress in talks, though no details have been disclosed.

Escalation on the Ground

Despite talk of diplomacy, hostilities remain intense. Iran launched multiple waves of missile attacks on Israeli cities overnight, including strikes near Tel Aviv and Dimona. Israeli authorities reported widespread damage, with emergency sirens sounding across affected areas.

In response, Israel has continued its military campaign, including strikes targeting key facilities linked to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps in Tehran.

Violence has also surged in the occupied West Bank, where Israeli forces are redeploying troops amid a spike in settler attacks on Palestinians. Rights groups report a sharp increase in daily incidents since the start of March.

Markets React to Uncertainty

Global markets have been highly volatile amid the conflicting narratives. Oil prices initially dropped following Trump’s announcement of potential talks but rebounded sharply after Iran denied any negotiations. Prices have now climbed above $100 per barrel, reflecting ongoing uncertainty.

Stock markets have also fluctuated, with analysts raising concerns about the timing of political statements and their apparent impact on trading activity.

Diplomatic Push Continues

Efforts to de-escalate the conflict are ongoing. Pakistan has offered to host talks involving the U.S., Iran, and Israel, while Turkey has engaged in intensive diplomatic outreach with regional and global partners.

The European Commission has also called for an immediate return to negotiations, urging all sides to end hostilities and pursue a political resolution.

However, an Israeli official cautioned that a deal does not appear imminent. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reiterated that military operations will continue, even as discussions around a possible agreement persist.

Colombian Military Plane Crash Kills At Least 66

Tosin Onisuuru
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Colombian Military Plane Crash Kills At Least 66

A Colombian military transport aircraft has crashed shortly after takeoff in the country’s southern Amazon region, killing at least dozens of personnel, with the death toll now rising to as high as 66 as search and rescue operations continue.

The aircraft, a Lockheed C-130 Hercules operated by the Colombian Air Force, went down on Monday near Puerto Leguízamo in Putumayo province, close to the borders with Ecuador and Peru. It was carrying more than 120 people, most of them military personnel.

Initial reports suggested at least 34 fatalities, but officials later confirmed that the number of deaths had increased significantly as recovery efforts progressed. Colombia’s armed forces chief said at least 66 people have now been confirmed dead, with several others injured and at least four still missing.

Authorities say the plane crashed just minutes after takeoff, landing roughly one to two kilometres from the airport. The wreckage scattered across dense jungle terrain, complicating rescue operations and delaying access for emergency responders.

Residents were among the first to arrive at the crash site, helping to pull survivors from the debris before military rescue teams took over. Injured victims were initially treated in nearby clinics before being airlifted to larger hospitals in other parts of the country.

While the exact cause of the crash remains under investigation, officials have ruled out an attack by armed groups. Preliminary reports indicate the aircraft may have encountered a technical issue shortly after departure.

The tragedy has sparked renewed concerns over the condition of Colombia’s aging military fleet, with calls for urgent upgrades and accountability from government officials.

Search and recovery efforts are ongoing as authorities work to account for all passengers and determine the cause of one of the deadliest military aviation disasters in the country’s recent history.

Iran Dismisses Trump’s Diplomacy Claims As War Intensifies

Tosin Onisuuru
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0
Iran Dismisses Trump’s Diplomacy Claims As War Intensifies

Iran has dismissed claims by U.S. President Donald Trump that “very good and productive” talks are underway to end the ongoing war, even as fresh missile attacks were launched at Israel.

Trump had earlier suggested that diplomatic efforts were progressing and could lead to a resolution of the escalating conflict. However, Iranian officials strongly rejected the claim, insisting that no negotiations have taken place between Tehran and Washington.

Speaking amid rising tensions, Iranian authorities described reports of talks as misinformation, with senior figures maintaining that there has been no direct engagement with the United States since the conflict intensified.

The denial came as Iran launched a new wave of missile strikes targeting Israeli cities, including Tel Aviv, causing injuries and damage to infrastructure. Air raid sirens were triggered across multiple regions, while some projectiles were intercepted by Israeli defence systems.

In response, Israeli forces carried out retaliatory airstrikes on Iranian and allied positions, further escalating hostilities across the region. The ongoing exchanges have heightened fears of a prolonged conflict with broader regional implications.

Despite Trump’s assertion that talks could lead to a breakthrough, skepticism remains high. Israeli officials have expressed doubts that Iran would agree to key U.S. demands, particularly regarding its nuclear and missile programmes.

Meanwhile, indirect diplomatic efforts are reportedly being facilitated by third-party countries, but no formal negotiations have been confirmed.

With both sides continuing military operations and rejecting each other’s narratives, prospects for a near-term ceasefire remain uncertain.

Victor Osimhen Undergoes Surgery After Arm Fracture

Ayomitunde Adeyemi
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Victor Osimhen Undergoes Surgery After Arm Fracture

Victor Osimhen has recently undergone surgery after suffering a serious arm injury during a UEFA Champions League match while playing for Galatasaray.

The Nigerian striker sustained the injury during Galatasaray’s Champions League Round of 16 second-leg match against Liverpool FC at Anfield. Osimhen was involved in an aerial challenge with Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konaté, who landed awkwardly on his arm, resulting in a fracture to his right forearm. Despite the injury, Osimhen continued playing until halftime before being substituted due to the severity of the injury.

Galatasaray eventually lost the match 4–0 and were eliminated from the Champions League, but the bigger concern after the game was the extent of Osimhen’s injury.

Return to Nigeria and Medical Assessment

After the injury was confirmed, Osimhen travelled to Nigeria while waiting for swelling in the arm to reduce before doctors could decide whether surgery would be required. The club arranged further scans and medical examinations in Istanbul before the final decision on the operation was made.

Doctors later confirmed that surgery was necessary to properly repair the fractured forearm.

Successful Surgery Confirmed

Galatasaray confirmed that Osimhen successfully underwent surgery on his broken arm at Maslak Acıbadem Hospital in Istanbul, with the operation carried out by the club’s medical team. The club described the procedure as successful and expressed optimism about his recovery.

The surgery was carried out to stabilize the fracture and ensure proper healing so the striker can return to football without long-term complications.

Recovery Timeline and Return Date

Osimhen is expected to be out of action for several weeks while recovering from the surgery. The striker himself revealed that recovery could take about four weeks for healing and another two weeks to regain fitness, meaning he could return to action in approximately five to six weeks.

This means he is likely to miss several matches for Galatasaray and could also miss upcoming international fixtures depending on his recovery progress.

Victor Osimhen’s recent injury is a major setback for both Galatasaray and the Nigerian national team. The striker fractured his arm during a Champions League match against Liverpool, continued playing briefly despite the injury, later underwent surgery in Istanbul, and is now expected to be out for several weeks while he recovers. If rehabilitation goes well, he could return to action within six weeks.

The situation is now focused on his recovery and rehabilitation, with Galatasaray hoping to have their star striker back before the end of the season.

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