Sports
Ten Hag Under Fire: Manchester United’s Defensive Woes Continue To Haunt Them
Manchester United’s struggles persist as they succumb to a devastating 2-1 defeat to Brighton, courtesy of a 95th-minute winner from Joao Pedro. Despite a late equalizer from Amad Diallo, United’s defense was exposed once again, leaving manager Erik ten Hag facing mounting pressure.
The Red Devils’ porous defense, which was supposed to be bolstered by heavy spending in the transfer window, was caught napping as Pedro was given a free header to seal the win for Brighton. Ten Hag lamented his team’s “soft goals” and lack of protection, warning that they will continue to drop points if they don’t improve.
United looked to have snatched a point when Diallo’s deflected effort cancelled out Danny Welbeck’s first-half opener for Brighton. However, Brazilian forward Pedro was given acres of space to head in at the back post, leaving Ten Hag frustrated.
The Dutch manager blamed his side’s defending for the defeat, saying, “If you protect the goal like we do, then you drop points. We concede two soft goals where we should act better as a team. We have to be alive in such moments.”
The defeat puts the spotlight back on Ten Hag, who survived an internal review at the end of last season despite finishing eighth in the Premier League. United’s performances in their first two league matches of the new campaign have done little to suggest a marked improvement from last season.
Brighton, on the other hand, celebrated an emotional win for their 31-year-old boss Fabian Hurzeler, who made a dream home Premier League debut. Hurzeler praised his team’s attitude and belief, saying, “Winners in the last minute are always emotional. The most important thing for me is the attitude of the players; they always had the belief in each other.”
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The Seagulls took the lead on 32 minutes when Harry Maguire failed to cut out a dangerous cross, and Kaoru Mitoma rolled the ball back across goal for Welbeck to tap in for his 100th career goal. United thought they were level seconds later, but Marcus Rashford was denied by the offside flag.
Brighton dominated the second half, with James Milner having an effort cleared off the line by Diogo Dalot before Welbeck headed off the bar. United barely threatened until Diallo drove forward and found the net via a deflection. However, the turning point came when Joshua Zirkzee was ruled offside after a VAR review, denying United a second goal.
The decisive third goal came when Pedro easily pulled away from Scott McTominay and substitute Matthijs de Ligt to find the space to head back across Andre Onana into the far corner. The defeat leaves United with much to ponder, while Brighton celebrates a thrilling win.
In a grand ceremony held at the State House in Abuja, President Bola Tinubu welcomed Moro Ojomo, the Nigerian-born American football player who clinched Super Bowl LIX, on Friday. Ojomo, a Philadelphia Eagles player, was accompanied by his family, including his father, Olo-lade; mother, Bimbo; and sister, Modele. The 23-year-old athlete, born in Lagos, arrived in Nigeria on Wednesday, marking his return to his homeland after his family relocated to the United States when he was seven.
Ojomo’s visit comes on the heels of his team’s triumph in the National Football League (NFL) championship, where they defeated the Kansas City Chiefs 40-22. In a statement made upon his arrival in Lagos, Ojomo credited his Nigerian upbringing and passion for the country as the driving force behind his success in the NFL.
“I have a drive and motivation that stem from my upbringing as a Nigerian, and my passion for this country allows me to excel. Nigeria has helped me succeed on the biggest stage,” he said. Ojomo also highlighted the growing presence of Nigerians in American football, emphasizing the opportunities the sport provides.
“It is everything when you look at the number of Africans, specifically Nigerians, in American football. The most important thing is giving our youths an opportunity to get into the sport. It is a pathway to education, high school and college degrees, and a means to put Nigeria on the global stage,” he added.
The Nigerian-born athlete encouraged his compatriots to seize opportunities and believe in their potential. “Just believe you can do anything. I know Nigerians are great, and I believe you should take advantage of opportunities and not let anyone deter you,” he concluded.
During his meeting with President Tinubu, Ojomo presented the President with a customized Philadelphia Eagles jersey, bearing the number 77, his jersey number. The President praised Ojomo’s achievements, saying, “Moro’s success is attributed to the talent and resilience of Nigerian youths. We are proud to have him as a role model and ambassador for our country. “Ojomo’s visit to Nigeria is seen as a significant boost to the country’s sports development, particularly in American football.
Diaspora Watch reports his success in the NFL has inspired many young Nigerians to take up the sport, and his visit is expected to further promote the growth of American football in the country. In addition to his meeting with President Tinubu, Ojomo is also scheduled to visit several schools and sports facilities in Lagos, where he will interact with young athletes and share his experiences with them.
Ojomo’s story is a remarkable one, from his humble beginnings in Lagos to his rise to fame in the NFL. His visit to Nigeria is a celebration of his achievements and a reflection to the power of hard work, determination, and passion.
Ademola Lookman, the Nigerian forward making waves across African and European football, has emerged as a leading contender for the prestigious 2024 CAF Player of the Year Award. Known for his agility, sharp finishing, and impactful performances, Lookman has consistently delivered for both club and country, contributing crucial goals and assists throughout the season.
His influence on the pitch and commitment to excellence have caught the eye of football analysts, who see him as a potential winner. If crowned, Lookman would join the ranks of African football legends who have claimed this title, cementing his status among the continent’s elite players. Fans are eagerly awaiting the CAF Awards ceremony to see if Lookman’s stellar season will be rewarded.
Welcome to the highly anticipated 23rd volume of Diaspora Watch, your indispensable source connecting the vibrant African diaspora around the world! This edition is packed with captivating stories and in-depth analysis.
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In the spotlight for the prestigious CAF Player of the Year award, Nigerian stars Ademola Lookman and Victor Boniface have captured the admiration of fans and football experts alike. Lookman, renowned for his speed and creative flair, has had a stellar season, leaving defenders struggling to keep up with his agile footwork and vision on the field. Meanwhile, Boniface’s exceptional goal-scoring abilities and commanding presence have consistently turned heads, making him a reliable asset for both club and country. Both players have elevated Nigerian football on the international stage, contributing to memorable victories and establishing themselves as influential forces in African football. Their nominations highlight the dynamic talent emerging from Nigeria, sparking excitement and pride among fans across the continent. As the CAF Player of the Year selection approaches, anticipation builds, and all eyes remain on Lookman and Boniface.
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