• Suspect Arrested and Confesses: A suspect was taken into custody and confessed to stealing cash from Super Falcons players at the Marriott Hotel in Casablanca, Morocco, with full restitution of the stolen funds expected as legal proceedings move forward.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

• • Players Targeted in the Heist: Midfielder Esther Okoronkwo disclosed that over $1,000 was stolen from her room alongside teammates Chiamaka Nnadozie, Michelle Alozie, and captain Rasheedat Ajibade on the final day of their training camp.

  • Hotel Criticism: Okoronkwo publicly criticized the hotel management and staff for failing to handle the situation properly and treating the players disrespectfully after the theft was reported.

  • Focus on WAFCON Opener: Undeterred by the incident, coach Justine Madugu’s squad completed training sessions on Sunday in preparation for their Group C opening match against Malawi on Tuesday in Rabat as they target an 11th continental title.

Former Mali national team midfielder Kalilou Traoré has tragically passed away at the age of 38 following a fatal road accident.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Traoré earned 17 caps for the Eagles during his international career and played a key role in Mali’s historic campaign at the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), where the team earned a bronze medal finish. His standout performances during that tournament solidified his place as a fan favorite and an integral part of one of the nation’s most memorable footballing achievements.

The news of his sudden passing has sent shockwaves through the football world, prompting a flood of tributes from former teammates, supporters, and sports officials. Remembered for his unwavering commitment and dedicated service to the national jersey, Traoré’s loss leaves a deep void in Malian sports.

Tottenham Hotspur manager Roberto De Zerbi has issued a firm ultimatum to his squad, insisting that any player who is not fully committed to the club should pack their bags this summer.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Speaking ahead of Tottenham’s pre-season friendly against Auckland FC in New Zealand, the Italian tactician made his stance clear while addressing speculation surrounding the future of 20-year-old Swedish midfielder Lucas Bergvall.

“I was very clear at the start of my time at Tottenham. I said: whoever doesn’t want to stay, whoever is not happy or proud to be here, has to leave,” De Zerbi stated.

“I want players who are proud, happy, and highly motivated every time they step onto the pitch at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. In modern football, motivation makes all the difference.”

Lucas Bergvall at the Crossroads

Bergvall, who joined Spurs from Djurgarden in 2024, found first-team opportunities limited after De Zerbi took charge—featuring in only four substitute appearances following his start in a 1-0 defeat to Sunderland.

His path to the starting XI has become even steeper after Spurs pulled off blockbuster midfield signings, bringing in Sandro Tonali from Newcastle (£100m) and Mateus Fernandes from West Ham (£85m).

• Transfer Interest: Nottingham Forest recently had a £38 million bid for Bergvall turned down, but are expected to return with an improved offer in the region of £45 million.

• De Zerbi’s Response: The manager confirmed he has yet to sit down with the youngster.

  “I will speak with Lucas in the coming days, and we will make the best decision for the club, for Lucas, and for myself. He is a massive talent, but competition will be fierce… If he wants to stay, I’ll be happy. If not, we will work with Johan Lange and Vinai to find a solution.”

Spurs Transfer Business Not Finished

Despite already bolstering their defense with Jan Paul van Hecke, Andy Robertson, and Marcos Senesi, De Zerbi revealed that Spurs are still actively hunting for new additions before the deadline.

“Our transfer window is not closed yet. We still need to bring in at least a couple more players,” he noted.

Injury Updates: Kudus, Kulusevski, and Xavi Simons

• Mohammed Kudus: Left behind in London to continue rehabilitation, Kudus is closing in on a return. De Zerbi expects him to join full training once the squad returns from New Zealand.

• Dejan Kulusevski: Following a full season on the sidelines, the club is taking a cautious approach to avoid any risk of relapse.

• Xavi Simons: Opening up for the first time about the devastating ACL injury that sidelined him from the 2026 World Cup, Simons described the immediate recovery period as the darkest moment of his career.

  “The first four days were the worst of my life. I couldn’t sleep, didn’t eat for a week, and was in severe pain and dizzy… but I am happy and in a much better place now.”