The Nigerian Super Falcons are on the cusp of the Olympics, but one final hurdle stands in their way: their arch-rivals, Banyana Banyana of South Africa. After missing out on the last three Olympic Games, the pressure is on for the Super Falcons to secure their ticket to Paris 2024.

Their opponents, Banyana Banyana, are no slouches. Coached by the formidable Desiree Ellis, they've already declared the upcoming match a "do or die" situation. Ellis, the reigning CAF Coach of the Year, plans to give her team every advantage by starting an early training camp to prepare for the challenge.

While the Super Falcons are nine-time African champions, they haven't qualified for the Olympics since their last appearance Beijing 2008. This year, however, they've displayed determination, comfortably overcoming Cameroon in the previous qualifying round.

The upcoming match is sure to be a tense affair, filled with the passion and rivalry that defines African football. Both teams have the talent and hunger to succeed, making it a match not to be missed.

So, will the Super Falcons finally soar to the Olympics, or will Banyana Banyana clip their wings? Only time will tell, but one thing's for sure: this is a match that will be etched in the memory of African football fans for years to come.

https://ballxtra.blogspot.com/2024/03/do-or-die-can-super-falcons-fly-to-paris.html?m=1

The footballing world held its breath, and then erupted in cheers for the little magician! Lionel Messi, the name synonymous with footballing genius, has once again claimed the throne, bagging the prestigious The Best FIFA Men's Player Award for 2023. This marks his seventh crown, further solidifying his position as one of the greatest the game has ever seen.

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THE SOARING EAGLES: NIGERIA EYES AFCON GLORY AS MOST VALUABLE SQUAD TAKES FLIGHT

Ivory Coast readies its colorful tapestry for the 34th Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon), and anticipation boils as the spotlight settles on the most valuable team gracing the tournament – the Super Eagles of Nigeria. With a staggering combined worth of $383 million, the Eagles enter Afcon 2024 poised to not only entertain, but potentially conquer.
Their claim to the "most valuable" throne stems from more than just hefty price tags. It's a testament to the quality and depth of their talent pool. Boasting the highest number of players plying their trade in top European leagues, the Eagles bring a blend of technical finesse, tactical understanding, and continental experience to the table.

Leading the charge is Napoli's ...
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SOARING EAGLES: NIGERIA ENTERS AFCON AS MOST VALUABLE SQUAD, EYES TOP PRIZE

The 34th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) kicks off in Ivory Coast this weekend, and all eyes are on the Super Eagles of Nigeria, who soar into the competition as the most valuable team. Boasting a staggering squad worth $383 million, Nigeria brings both talent and financial firepower to the tournament.

Their advantage lies not just in hefty price tags, but also in experience and pedigree. The Eagles have the most players plying their trade in top European leagues, showcasing their quality and adaptability to high-pressure environments. Napoli's Victor Osimhen, valued at a cool $120 million, is the crown jewel of the squad, leading the line with his potent goal-scoring prowess.

However, a hefty price tag doesn't guarantee victory. The Super Eagles, despite their immense potential, haven't lifted the Afcon trophy since 2013. They'll face stiff competition from other strong contenders like Senegal, the defending champions, and Ivory Coast, the host nation.

The pressure is on, but the Eagles know what it takes to succeed on the continental stage. Their passionate fans and a hunger for redemption after missing the last World Cup will provide a powerful boost. Head coach Jose Peseiro has instilled a tactical discipline and attacking flair that could see Nigeria soar to new heights.

Whether the Eagles' wealth translates to Afcon glory remains to be seen. But one thing's for sure: their presence adds a star-studded dimension to the tournament, promising breathtaking matches and unforgettable moments for African football fans around the world. Can the Super Eagles finally take flight and reclaim their place as kings of the continent? Only time will tell, but one thing's certain – the Afcon stage is set for a Nigerian spectacle.

CHECK THIS OUT!
Cristiano Ronaldo, known to be the first team sports athlete to generate over 1 billion US dollars in career earnings is the third richest footballer in the world.
Christiano Ronaldo, The 'GOAT', is the highest-paid athlete in history. His contract with Saudi club Al Nasr guarantees him a $215 million annual salary. Oops!
With a net worth of $600 million, Ronaldo is the 3rd richest footballer in the world.

Who then are the first and second?
The answers will shock you!

KING MO SALAH REIGNS SUPREME: REACHING 150 PREMIER LEAGUE GOALS FOR LIVERPOOL

He glides across the pitch with the grace of a gazelle, his left foot a wand conjuring wonder on the Anfield turf. Mohamed Salah, the Egyptian King, has etched his name even deeper in Liverpool folklore, becoming only the fifth player in Premier League history to score 150 goals for a single club.
It's a feat reserved for the true titans of the English game. Alan Shearer, Thierry Henry, Wayne Rooney, and Sergio Aguero – these are the names Salah now stands alongside, a testament to his relentless brilliance in a red shirt. His 150th strike, a clinical finish against Newcastle, was as pure Salah as it gets – a darting run, a perfectly weighted touch, and then, with a calmness that belies his lightning pace, a finish tucked away with precision.

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As the dust settles on a thrilling 2023 football season, it's time to celebrate the marksmen who lit up the pitch with their goalscoring prowess as BallXtra takes a look at some of the most exciting names that have made the list. While the spotlight often shines brightest on foreign shores, this year's top scorers list offers a fascinating mix of established stars and rising talents, with a familiar face atop the heap and a glimmer of hope from the domestic league.

Leading the charge is Napoli's Victor Osimhen, the undisputed "Owngoal Machine" who terrorized Serie A defenses with a staggering 34 goals. Osimhen's clinical finishing and relentless energy saw him claim the Capocannoniere title, solidifying his status as one of Africa's hottest attacking talents.

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REDS RUN RIOT IN A SIX-GOAL THRILLER! LIVERPOOL TOP THE TABLE AFTER DRAMATIC WIN OVER NEWCASTLE

Anfield erupted tonight as Liverpool edged a breathless encounter with Newcastle United, claiming a 4-2 victory that sends them three points clear at the top of the Premier League!
The first half was a whirlwind of near misses and VAR interventions, with Salah's penalty save the closest either side came to breaking the deadlock. But the second period exploded into life, with Mo Salah finally grabbing the opener before Isak's audacious breakawayshowcased Newcastle's threat.
Klopp's men, however, maintained their dominance, and Jones and Gakpo's strikes seemed to have secured the win. Yet, just as the crowd started booking FA Cup tickets, Botman thundered a header past Alisson, reigniting the contest.
But Salah wasn't done yet. Stepping up again from the penalty spot, he sent Dubravka the wrong way with four minutes to go, silencing the Geordie faithful and sending Liverpool off into the FA Cup break with a crucial three points

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It was a rollercoaster ride at Villa Park on Saturday, December 30, as Aston Villa edged Burnley in a thrilling 3-2 encounter. In a game packed with goals, drama, and VAR controversy, Villa ultimately emerged victorious thanks to a last-gasp penalty from the ever-reliable Douglas Luiz.
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The City Ground witnessed a seismic shift in the Premier League on Saturday, 30th December as Nottingham Forest, roared on by their fervent fans, pulled off a stunning 2-1 victory over Manchester United. In a David vs Goliath clash, the Garibaldis defied pre-match expectations and delivered a performance etched in Forest folklore.
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FROM DESPAIR TO DELIRIUM: UNITED COMPLETE STUNNING COMEBACK TO SINK VILLA AT OLD TRAFFORD

The Theatre of Dreams lived up to its name today, as Manchester United staged a sensational second-half comeback to snatch a 3-2 victory from the jaws of defeat against Aston Villa.
Villa looked on course for a comfortable win after a first-half masterclass. McGinn's bizarre free-kick, which took a wicked deflection off the wall, and Dendoncker's expertly flicked header had the visitors two goals up at the break. Old Trafford was shrouded in a hush, the familiar feeling of frustration hanging heavy in the air.

But the second half saw a United transformed. Ten Hag's young guns tore into Villa with renewed vigour and purpose. Garnacho, the epitome of United's fighting spirit, fired home from Rashford's low cross, sending a jolt of electricity through the stadium. Not long after, the Argentine doubled the tally, his deflected shot leaving Martinez helpless.

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