In their first FIFA World Cup appearance in 52 years, the Democratic Republic of Congo delivered a resilient performance to secure a 1-1 draw against Portugal in their Group K opener. This result adds to Portugal’s ongoing struggles in World Cup tournament debuts, marking only one victory in their last five opening matches.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Portugal initially took control when João Neves scored a header from a Pedro Neto cross just six minutes into the game. While Portugal sought to capitalize on their lead, the Leopards maintained defensive discipline and began to find their rhythm. DR Congo’s persistence was rewarded just before halftime when Yoane Wissa headed in a corner, marking the nation’s first-ever goal in World Cup history.

The second half saw Portugal attempt to increase the pressure, though a potential go-ahead goal from João Cancelo was overturned due to an offside call. Cristiano Ronaldo also had an opportunity to secure a victory but was unable to convert a pass from Francisco Conceição. Despite efforts from both teams to find a late winner, the match concluded in a stalemate.

This draw marks a notable improvement for DR Congo, who previously exited the tournament without a point or a goal in their last appearance. With upcoming matches against Colombia and Uzbekistan, the team now holds realistic ambitions of advancing to the knockout stages.

A Kogi State High Court, presided over by Justice Abdul Nicodemus Awulu, has sentenced Jibrin Halilu to death for his role in the kidnapping and murder of Uche Andrew Offo, a hotel owner in Obajana. Halilu was found guilty of conspiracy and kidnapping, in violation of the Kogi State Kidnapping and Other Related Offences Prohibition Law, 2023.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The incident occurred on March 23, 2023, when Halilu and an armed gang abducted Offo from his hotel, the Everready Hotel. Although Offo’s family paid a ₦2.5 million ransom, he was killed after recognizing Halilu—his own neighbour—among his abductors. Halilu was eventually arrested by the Department of State Services (DSS) on December 4, 2025, and was also linked to the April 2, 2023, kidnapping of Ibrahim Abdullahi in Lokoja, for which a ₦5 million ransom was paid.

This verdict is part of a series of recent major legal successes for the DSS:

• Owo Church Attack: On June 3, 2026, a Federal High Court in Abuja sentenced four men—Idris Abdulmalik Omeiza, Al Qasim Idris, Jamiu Abdulmalik, and Abdulhaleem Idris—to death for the 2022 terror attack on St. Francis Catholic Church, which resulted in over 40 deaths and 100 injuries.

• Katsina Arms Courier: Just 24 hours prior to the Kogi ruling, a Katsina State High Court sentenced a female arms courier apprehended by the DSS to death.

Security sources stated that these consecutive convictions serve as a strong message that those involved in terrorism, kidnapping, and violent crime will be held accountable and face the full extent of the law.

Super Eagles forward Victor Osimhen recently shared his personal disappointment regarding Nigeria’s absence from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, marking the second consecutive time the team has failed to qualify. During a social media livestream, the striker acknowledged that the team’s failure to reach the expanded 48-team tournament is deeply painful for both himself and his teammates. Nigeria’s hopes were dashed after finishing second in their qualification group and subsequently losing to DR Congo in the continental playoffs. Despite his status as a premier forward, this result means Osimhen and several of his teammates have yet to compete at a senior FIFA World Cup, with Nigeria’s last appearance dating back to 2018. Ultimately, Osimhen expressed that while the setback is difficult to accept, the players must maintain their resolve and focus on future challenges.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶