Shooting Stars: Asuquo, Edjomarigwe remain our players

The Oluyole Warriors say they are not ready to release any player as they are confident of getting a continental ticket at the end of the season Shooting Stars Sports Club have described the story of Kano Pillars snatching their winger, Tony Edjomarigwe and midfielder Philip Asuquo as untrue as the duo remain members of their team. While clarifying the issue in Ibadan, 3SC media officer Jubril Arowolo said they only permitted the two players to visit their family consequent upon the short break in the league and not until they failed to report back on the scheduled period given to them that any suspicion can be entertained. Arowolo stated further that no club has approached them for clearance that would come to a close on Friday June 28 of any of their player, so they wonder how a player can be signed without following formal procedures. “Asuquo and Edjomarigwe are players of Shooting Stars, we wonder where the website that posted the story got it from, as far as I’m concerned we are not ready to sell any player at this mid-season stage that we are finding a way to strengthen and fortify the team. “We are not happy with such one-sided report that is capable of causing rancour between the team and its teeming followers who are looking forward to a rejuvenated squad when the second round gets underway,” Arowolo noted

Brazil favourites for Confederations Cup, says Del Bosque

Vicente del Bosque has played down Spain's chances of winning the Confederations Cup final against Brazil. La Roja booked their place in Sunday's showpiece following a tense penalty shootout against Italy on Thursday, from which the Spaniards emerged 7-6 winners after Jesus Navas capitalised on Leonardo Bonucci's miss during sudden death. However, Del Bosque's men have played an extra 30 minutes compared to the Selecao and will have one day less recovery time before the final, making the Spain boss believe his side are underdogs. He told a press conference: "Brazil are the favourites. They have five World Cups, three Confederations Cups, we're going to be facing them at the Maracana and we're excited to do so. "We want to recover and get there in the best condition possible. In the next three days, we'll try to do so. "Spain played 120 minutes tonight and they are players who usually play two matches a week, so we believe that we will be able to give it our all on Sunday. "We don't know who will dominate, who will have more possession. We'll try to. Tonight, Italy were very strong and they held control of the match." The former Real Madrid coach went on to identify where Luiz Felipe Scolari's men will pose most threat to his team and concluded it would be a mistake to focus on one individual while ignoring the collective force of their opponents. He stated: "[Dani] Alves and Marcelo are great. They're able to influence a game. "Neymar is fantastic and their middle of the pitch is also absolutely fantastic, but we can't talk about just one Brazilian player who we'll guard against."

Tottenham close in on Villa

Spurs are closing in on the Barcelona striker after he reached a broad agreement on personal terms, with both clubs now negotiating a transfer fee to secure the deal ANWARASISTRANS Tottenham are closing in on a deal to sign David Villa after the Barcelona star confirmed he would like to move to White Hart Lane during talks with the player and his representatives, Goal has learned. The Spain striker has reached a broad agreement on personal terms to move to Spurs this summer and is eager to play in the Premier League. Tottenham manager Andre Villas-Boas has spoken informally to Villa on the phone while the club's new technical director, Franco Baldini, has held productive discussions with the 31-year-old's agent. Spurs officials are understood to have been in Brazil last week, where they held talks over a deal for Villa - who is in the country for the Confederations Cup - while also reaching a €17 million agreement to sign Paulinho from Corinthians.Spurs are willing to pay the attacker more than €117,000-a-week but the former Valencia man is understood to have accepted that he must take a reduction on his €163,000 weekly salary at Barcelona. Villa-Boas has made Villa his top final-third target for the summer transfer window as he looks to boost the club's forward line and improve Spurs' chances of a top-four finish next season. Spurs tried to rival Arsenal for the Spaniard's signature in the January transfer window but Barcelona refused to sell the forward midway through the season. The Gunners have dropped their interest in Villa while Barcelona are now prepared to sell the striker, who would find his opportunities further limited next season following the arrival of Neymar at the Liga giants. Tottenham are looking to conduct their major transfer business early this year and have agreed a deal of €18m plus €2m in add-ons to sign Paulinho. The 24-year-old is expected to sign an initial four-year contract and undergo a medical after the Confederations Cup final on Sunday, having scored the late winner in Brazil's semi-final win over Uruguay on Wednesday.

John Ogu: The Confederations Cup was a great learning experience

The Academica midfielder is relishing the prospect of qualifying for the World Cup to once more play against the world's top sides having gained valuable experience this term ANWARASISTRANS With the argument still raging whether the Super Eagles had a good tournament in Brazil, one of the protagonists, John Ogu told Goal that the experience will serve the national team very well in the coming months. Ogu returned with the team following their early exit after two losses to Uruguay and Spain in Brazil last week. “The Confederations Cup was a great experience for me personally and to my football career and for the team,” Ogu told Goal. The Academica midfielder started the game against Uruguay and came on for the other two – against Tahiti and Spain. He said playing against Spaniards Xavi and Andres Iniesta was an experience that will help him get better. “It was great coming on against Spain because I like watching most of their players and playing on the same pitch with them gave me goose bumps. “This was a great learning experience for me and the other guys. The Eagles will only get better from now on because we now better understand the challenge we will face in 2014 by God’s grace when we come back for the World Cup,” he added. The 24-year old midfielder said he will be taking some weeks off the game to relax with family and friends and then to pre-season with his Portuguese club. “Right now, my focus is firmly on playing for Academica next season but you never know in football. I do not worry about transfer speculations.” Ogu also spoke about the must-win encounter against Malawi in September which will qualify the Eagles for the last round of African qualifiers. “I think with what we have seen [in Brazil] and with our performances against top sides, we know that we have to win to get to the next stage and that is the only thing on our mind,” Ogu concluded.

Paulinho can succeed in England - Luiz

The midfielder is set to join the north London side after the club agreed a €20 million fee with Corinthians, and his Brazil team-mate feels he will adapt well to English football Chelsea centre-back David Luiz has tipped his Brazil team-mate Paulinho to shine in the Premier League ahead of a proposed move to Tottenham. The north London outfit have agreed a €20 million deal with Corinthians for the versatile midfielder, with the move expected to be completed following the Selecao's involvement in the Confederations Cup. Paulinho notched his second goal of the tournament four minutes from time in Wednesday's 2-1 semi-final win over Uruguay to send Brazil into Sunday's final, and Luiz is excited at the prospect of the 24-year-old plying his trade in England. The win over Oscar Tabarez's men keeps up Brazil's 100 per cent record in the competition where they will now face either Spain or Italy on Sunday, and Luiz feels the squad are continuing to improve as they advance in the tournament. "It's growing game-by-game but sometimes you cannot play the game you want with a lot of opportunities and a lot of possession," Luiz explained. "But that's why the Brazilian team is now more mature, because it can play open games or games like today, which was a very different game. "I think Uruguay did a great job with two lines deep so you can't create a lot of opportunities to score but the team has matured well. "It's a dream come true [to reach the final]. I think it is a special moment for us, but we want to win. "I am so happy because I can play a final with Brazil in the Maracana. Whether we play against Spain or Italy, it will be a difficult game for us."

Juventus target Kolarov after agreeing Tevez fee

Juventus have made Aleksandar Kolarov their second Manchester City target this summer alongside Carlos Tevez. The Serie A outfit believe that the Serbia international will slot into their wing-back system and are hoping to take advantage of City's desire to sell the 27-year-old to secure a cut-price move. The left-sided defender moved to the Etihad Stadium from Lazio for around €18 million in 2010 and the Premier League runners-up are willing to take something of a hit on that figure as they look to cut his €105,000-a-week earnings from the wage bill.The Bianconeri are closing in on a deal for Tevez after agreeing an €11.8m fee, which could rise to over €17m should Juve win Serie A and reach the semi-finals of the Champions League, and they are confident of also securing Kolarov's signature for a combined outlay of around €23.5m. The former Lazio star struggled to make an impression for City during 2011-12 and openly hinted that he would leave the Etihad Stadium if he could be guaranteed regular football elsewhere. "I am in constant contact with my agent, so we will soon see what happens," he said in June 2012. "I am very happy here in Manchester but my goal is to play with greater regularity. I said it to [former boss Roberto] Mancini.

Pakistan bomb kills eight and injures Karachi judge

Justice Maqbool Baqir was on his way to the Sindh High Court on Wednesday morning when his security convoy was attacked. Several people were wounded. The Pakistani Taliban said it carried out the attack during rush hour. Karachi is Pakistan's biggest city and has in recent years been hit by ethnic, sectarian and political violence. Last week, gunmen shot dead a provincial MP and his son after Friday prayers. Police say that the wounded judge is now in hospital with critical injuries. His driver and guards was killed. The bomb was attached to a motorcycle and was so powerful that it damaged nearby shops, police told the Associated Press news agency. Correspondents say Judge Baqir has a reputation for honesty. He has recently served in special anti-terrorism courts set up to deliver speedy punishments and received constant death threats. Reports say many of the threats came from the extremist Sunni Muslim Lashkar-e-Jhangvi militant group, which has been angered over his handling of sectarian crimes. The group has close ties with Pakistani Taliban and al-Qaeda. It has previously admitted killing Shia Muslim lawyers in Karachi.

Keshi calls up Agbim, 23 others for CIV

Even as the African champions were rueing several missed chances in the 3-0 defeat to world and European champions Spain at the FIFA Confederations Cup tournament in Brazil, Keshi pencilled down goalkeeper Chigozie Agbim, defenders Azubuike Egwuekwe, Godfrey Oboabona, Solomon Kwambe and Benjamin Francis, midfielders Emeka Eze and Sunday Mba and forward Muhammad Gambo from the squad that were with him in Brazil, and added 14 more from Nigeria’s top-flight and two from the lower division. Returning are goalkeeper Daniel Akpeyi, defender Kunle Odunlami and strikers Obinna Nwachukwu and Gomo Onduku, who were part of the team’s training camp in Germany ahead of the international friendly with Mexico in Texas, USA. Defender Chibuzor Okonkwo, no stranger to the senior team camp, is joined by familiar faces Umar Zango and Ezekiel Bassey, Ayo Saka and Anthony Okputu. Nigeria Professional Football League top scorer Dele Olorundare of Sunshine Stars is joined by former junior international midfielder Olufemi Oladapo. New faces are Mohammed Ajia of Bayelsa United, Enyimba FC’s Ifeanyi Edeh, Pius Samson of Ranch Bees, Festus Ajah of Union Bank FC and Warri Wolves’ Etebo Oghene. The players are expected to report at the Bolton White Apartments, Abuja on Sunday. Meanwhile, the Nigeria Football Federation has announced that the match will be played at the Ahmadu Bello Stadium, Kaduna on Saturday, July 6. “We are happy for the favourable response from the Kaduna State Government, and we have also approached the National Sports Commission for permission to use the Ahmadu Bello Stadium, Kaduna for the encounter. “The grass is excellent and the entire facility is so well-maintained. The Super Eagles will find the place comfortable,” Barrister Musa Amadu, NFF General Secretary who was in Kaduna on Monday, said. LIST OF INVITED PLAYERS Goalkeepers: Chigozie Agbim (Warri Wolves); Daniel Akpeyi (Heartland FC) Defenders: Azubuike Egwuekwe (Warri Wolves); Godfrey Oboabona (Sunshine Stars); Benjamin Francis (Heartland FC); Kunle Odunlami (Sunshine Stars); Ezekiel Bassey (Lobi Stars); Umar Zango (Kano Pillars); Solomon Kwambe (Sunshine Stars); Chibuzor Okonkwo (Enugu Rangers) Midfielders: Sunday Mba (Enugu Rangers); Ayo Saka (Enyimba FC); Olufemi Oladapo (3SC); Emeka Eze (Enugu Rangers); Mohammed Ajia (Bayelsa United) Forwards: Muhammad Gambo (Kano Pillars); Obinna Nwachukwu (Heartland FC); Gomo Onduku (Bayelsa United); Ifeanyi Edeh (Enyimba FC); Anthony Okputu (Lobi Stars); Pius Samson (Ranch Bees); Festus Ajah (Union Bank); Etebo Oghene (Warri Wolves); Dele Olorundare (Sunshine Stars)

New Video: Lamboginny Ft Olamide - Gbaladun

Juventus step up Tevez summer swoop

Juventus will step up their bid to sign Carlos Tevez this week as Real Madrid and AC Milan continue to monitor the Manchester City striker. The Serie A champions are set to begin formal talks with City ahead of a concerted move for the Argentine. It is understood that Juventus have held fresh talks with Tevez's representatives in recent days and are close to agreeing personal terms with the 29-year-old. Negotiations have not yet taken place on a fee for the Argentina international and Bianconeri officials are set to fly to the north west to iron out a deal and ward off interest from other clubs. Milan have long held an interest in Tevez and could join City at the negotiating table if they complete the sale of Robinho back to Brazil, with CEO Adriano Galliani stressing the need to sell before buying. Incoming Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti is also a big admirer of Tevez and is believed to have told his new club that he would welcome the player at the Santiago Bernabeu next season. Los Blancos, however, have placed Isco, Edinson Cavani and Gareth Bale at the top of their summer wish list. Tevez has agitated for a move during much of his four-year spell at the Etihad Stadium and, with his contract expiring in 12 months' time, City could be ready to off-load him in the knowledge that he could walk away for free in 2014. Liverpool had discussed the possibility of a move for the former Manchester United striker earlier in the summer before pursuing other targets, while Monaco's interest has diminished after landing Radamel Falcao. Juventus have agreed personal terms with Gonzalo Higuain but have baulked at his €23 million-plus asking price and are set to lose out to Arsenal in the chase for Real Madrid striker. Higuain's fellow Argentine, Tevez, is four years older and his fee is unlikely to be much beyond €11m. City are also willing to listen to offers for Edin Dzeko, and had offered him in part-exchange for Edinson Cavani. However, after failing to meet Napoli's asking price for the Uruguayan, the Premier League club might only be prepared to sell one of Dzeko and Tevez, not both.

Nigeria legend Ben Iroha wants Odemwingie & others recalled

Former Nigeria left back Benedict Iroha has asked Super Eagles coach Stephen Keshi to bring back into the team experienced players like Peter Odemwingie, Victor Anichebe, Ikechukwu Uche and Kalu Uche to further strengthen the team. Iroha disclosed that it was high time for Keshi to recall these players after Nigeria were eliminated following a 3-0 loss to Spain on Sunday in the Confederations Cup. "I don't think it is a difficult issue for Keshi to bring back Osaze Odemwingie, Victor Anichebe, Ikechukwu Uche, Kalu Uche to compliment the good work of Emmanuel Emenike, Victor Moses and others to further strengthen this team,”  "I know Keshi is gradually working on this team so that we can blend the young and talented players that have done well so far in this team. “We need [Odemwingie] and others back and I am happy that he himself said it on his twitter handle that he wants to play for the Eagles again. So this a good omen," the former left back observed. Iroha also defended the performance of the Super Eagles in the Confederations Cup as he believed that the Nigerian team was not disgraced in the competition despite being ousted by world and European Champions Spain. "To be honest with you I am very impressed with the performance of the boys. They were never disgraced in all the three matches they played before being eliminated. "They played a good match against Tahiti and also played beautifully against star-studded Uruguay. They could have even won the game if not for poor marksmanship most especially in the first half. This was later repeated in the third group match against Spain. "Eagles could have wrapped up things in the first half but couldn't convert the begging chances created against the world champions. So in all I think Nigeria played impressively and showed the world that we have got quality. As we know team coach Stephen Keshi is still building this team and the Eagles can only get better with time," Iroha disclosed. Nigeria have a game against Malawi in September as they seek to qualify for the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.

Join HP at the Touch Anywhere Create Anything Music Competition with Windows 8

Join HP at the Touch Anywhere Create Anything Music Competition with Windows 8:

Hewlett
Packard Nigeria launched its new Windows 8 touch enabled PCs – HP Envy x2 |
100% tablet 100 notebook, HP Envy 4 Touchsmart Ultrabook | a thin, light and
ultra-responsive laptop as well as the HP Envy 23 All in One | a 23inch touch
enabled PC all coming with beats audio in the Touch Anywhere Create Anything
Campaign a few weeks ago with a series of exciting activities across Lagos and
Enugu States. Activities varied from Flashmobs, remixes and sing-alongs as well
as celebrity hang outs with Ice Prince, Waje & PRE..it was fun…fun all the
way. Continue...

Consumers had the rare opportunity
to meet and create their own remixes of their favorite Waje, Ice Prince and
P.R.E. song on the spot using these fantastic HP Envy series running on Windows
8. Top finalists were awarded freebies as well as discounted vouchers from HP
Partners

Here
are some interesting pictures and recordings from the HP music booth; (For
recording http://www.hulkshare.com/TouchAnywhereCreateAnything)

Want
to be a part of this campaign to stand a chance to win exciting freebies from
Hewlett Packard, visit HP Experience Booths at Ikeja Mall on 23^rd, 29^th
& 30 June 2013 & Palms Shopping Mall July 6^th & 7^th.
Join the conversation about HPWindows8 by following us on twitter – www.twitter.com/hpnigeria1 - using hash tag
#TouchAnywhereCreateAnything or go to www.facebook.com/hpnigeria and like the page.

At the
Malls, you will get first hand opportunity to experience these products, record
a remix of your favorite song and also stand a chance to winning exciting
freebies! You never know – it could be a brand new windows 8 laptop!

To purchase
these beautiful devices, visit to any of the listed HP authorized retailers or
call hotline

Lagos

•      Westgate Technologies   08064829379

•      Park n Shop                   08038727236

•      Office R Us                     08067716551

•      Office Land                     08063585450

•      Slot                                08037298466

Abuja

•      Kamdi                            07037801627

•      Fortec                             08038915457

•      De-law Tech                   08078462350

Or
click here to see a full list of HP’s authorized retailers - http://h20158.www2.hp.com/gms/ng/en/sixth-tab.html .

Nigerians to start paying £3, 000 to enter the UK from November

Nigerians to start paying £3, 000 to enter the UK from November:

Naija people, una dey hear this one? According to a report by UK Daily Mail, visitors from 'high risk' countries in Africa and Asia will have to put up a £3,000 cash bond to enter Britain. The money will be kept by the Government if visitors do not return home by the time their visas expire.

A pilot scheme, introduced by Home Secretary Theresa May, will target hundreds of people coming to Britain on six-month visit visas from India, Pakistan, Nigeria, Ghana, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. The countries have been picked for their high number of visa applications and what the Government sees as
relatively high levels of immigration abuse and fraud, reports the Sunday Times.

The bonds, to be introduced from November, will only apply to non-EU migrants, otherwise they would fall foul of European rights to free movement. 'This is the next step in making sure our immigration system is more selective, bringing down net migration from the hundreds of thousands to the tens of thousands while still welcoming the brightest and the best to Britain,' Mrs May told the Sunday Times.

'In the long run we’re interested in a system of bonds that deters overstaying and recovers costs if a foreign national has used our public services.'

A second scheme will cover countries such as Kenya, the newspaper reports, which are  considered to belower-risk because immigration officials have fewer doubts about migrants' plans to return home.

About 2.2million people are granted visas to enter Britain every year. Last  year 296,000 people from India were granted six-month visas, as were  101,000 from Nigeria, 53,000 from Pakistan and 14,000 apiece from  Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.

The Home Secretary plans to reduce annual net migration to under 100,000 by 2015.

My Lucky Day: An Offer to Reverse Type 2 Diabetes

My Lucky Day: An Offer to Reverse Type 2 Diabetes: My eyes went directly to the advertisement, featuring a free gourmet meal and a promise to attendees to "discover the hidden secrets about how to potentially reverse your Type 2 diabetes."  This was the most exciting thing I'd come across in some time and it was happening at a location near me.  Was this the answer?  I mean, who wants to pass up a free gourmet meal and an opportunity to reverse this chronic disease?  Reading the advertisement more closely, it was being promoted by a diabetes company and it was being held at a convenient evening hour.

How to Help Overweight Kids

How to Help Overweight Kids

Rev Run Revs Up His Campaign for Diabetes Awareness

Rev Run Revs Up His Campaign for Diabetes Awareness

… Company threatens to sue Okorocha

… Company threatens to sue Okorocha:
From AIDOGHIE PAULINUS, Abuja
The last has not been heard on the controversy trailing the contract award of an ultra-modern judiciary headquarters building by the Imo State Government. Handlers of the project, Nnutouch Global Ventures Limited, have threatened to sue the state Governor, Owelle Rochas Okorocha, for breach of contractual agreement.
Managing Director of the company, Dr. Osita Okereke, told Daily Sun in Abuja that the next line of action was that the company had decided to go to court.
His words: “My next line of action is that we have decided to go to court. The company met last night and decided to go to court this week, if we hear anything contrary to what they are planning to do.” Okereke added that Okorocha was trying to indict him to ensure that the N328 million owed Nnutouch by the state government would not be paid.
Okereke said: “I learnt the governor said he will look for all means to make sure that he indicts me, that he will do whatever he can to look for the people I have problem with.
“But I said, look, I have no skeleton in my cupboard. Whatever he thinks he can do let him go ahead and do it. But all I know is that we are going to fight him to a logical conclusion.”
Speaking earlier, Okereke urged Nigerians to ask Okorocha to return the sum of N328 million to his company. Okereke also called on the security agencies to investigate the whereabouts of the said money belonging to Nnutouch.
He said the company’s account with Zenith Bank, where it received the sum of N176 million on August 2012, being the first money Okorocha paid through the state’s Accountant General, was there for all to see.
He stated that after eight months of controversy with Okorocha to return the N24 million he took from the N528 million upfront, he later returned the money through his principal secretary on April 2, 2013.
Okereke wondered why Okorocha decided to pay the money through his principal secretary instead of the accountant general. Okorocha had awarded the contract at the sum of N1.3 billion to Nnutouch with N528 million as upfront payment.

Countdown to the 2013 Miss Nigeria beauty pageant and charity ball

Countdown to the 2013 Miss Nigeria beauty pageant and charity ball:

InterContinental Lagos is proud to host the 38th Annual Miss Nigeria Beauty Pageant andCharity Ball. The state-of-the-art hotel, InterContinental Lagos, is located on the Victoria Island area within the heart of the Central Business District of the city of Lagos. The hotel is held in high esteem around the globe and
is known to widely embrace events of distinct cultural taste and value. Created in 1957, The Miss Nigeria Beauty Pageant is Nigeria’s foremost pageant and discovering platform for young ladies. Notable among them are beauty queens such as Grace Oyelude, Julie Coker, Helen Prest-Ajayi, Binta Sukai, Vien Tetsola, Sylva Edem, Ene Lawani and Damilola Agbajor to name a few.

Now in its 38th year, The Miss Nigeria Pageant has become a strong symbol of African culture and tradition
and is brought to you by The African Times Network. This year's theme "Every Nation Needs A Queen” is centered on unity across the
36 states in Nigeria to promote beauty in diversity. The event promises to be more engaging and fulfilling in hopes that it will further unite Nigerians across its many cultural divides. The 38th Annual Miss Nigeria Beauty Pageant would be a platform to support less privileged kids. Funds will be raised towards the cause - "Education; A Salvation For Kids Prior to the main event, the 36 contestants will be entered in for a reality TV show titled: THE MAKING OF A QUEEN. The Making of A Queen will be filmed in Lagos (partly at our partner hotel, InterContinental Lagos) and other neighboring cities and will run for a period of two weeks. During the reality TV show, the contestants would be given tasks and have interactive sessions with their fellow contestants. They would then be judged based on their elegance, poise, talent, intelligence and beauty. After a rigorous and nail-biting process, they would be narrowed down to 21 finalists who will then move on to the grand finale, where they will compete for the crown: and one winner will emerge.

Most importantly, these contestants would be representing their individual selves as the pride of Nigeria. Thereby, adhering to the theme “Every Nation Needs a Queen”. In doing this they would be promoting unity and celebrating our cultural heritage. Unlike in the past, where they had to represent individual states.  This year's event promises to be a bigger and better show than ever before. We have a plethora of highly
qualified contestants competing this year, and every single one of them embodies the core values of our organization. We aim to create role models who through the beauty pageant will serve as ambassadors that will help define a new Nigeria; enrich the beauty of the Nigerian Woman, create a new vibe, energy and spirit for the advancement of women while positively impacting their communities. Every Nation needs a Queen and the search for ours has begun: Miss Nigeria, 2013.  Date: 6^th July 2013

Venue: InterContinental, Lagos

Tickets: TABLES ONLY

TICKET HOTLINE: 08186960370, 08091892258

21,000 Rotarians gather in Lisbon, injects € 80m to local economy

21,000 Rotarians gather in Lisbon, injects € 80m to local economy:
With Nigerian Rotarians in active participation including Sir. Emeka Offor , the Executive Vice Chairman of the Chrome Group, no fewer than 21, 000 Rotarians from about 150 countries across the globe have gathered in the oldest city of Western Europe Lisbon, Portugal for the 2013 Rotary’s annual international convention featuring the theme, “Lisbon – A Harbor for Peace“
The post 21,000 Rotarians gather in Lisbon, injects € 80m to local economy appeared first on vanguardngr.com Vanguard News.

Uruguay smash Tahiti with eight goal to reach semis

2′ Abel Hernández 24′ Abel Hernández 27′ Diego Pérez 45+1′ Abel Hernández 61′ N. Lodeiro 67′ (PG) Abel Hernández 82′ Luis Suárez 90′ Luis Suárez

Uruguay ambled into the semi-finals of the Confederations Cup with a straightforward 8-0 win over Tahiti at Arena Pernambuco. Abel Hernandez opened the scoring with the fastest goal in the competition's history after 79 seconds and a Diego Perez finish came between his other two strikes which ensured the South Americans took a four-goal lead into half time. Andres Scotti missed a penalty early in the second half and was then sent off for a second yellow card one minute later, while Teheivarii Ludivion was also shown red for the Oceania champions before Nicolas Lodeiro, Hernandez with his fourth, and a Luis Suarez double wrapped up the win in comfortable fashion.

 Perez was the next player to spring the offside trap, getting his head on Gargano's cross and tapping home from close range after his initial nod hit the post. Uruguay stepped off the gas again and Tahiti took the opportunity to get forward, but Marama Vahirua and Steevy Chong Hue were unable to make the most of the chances that came their way. Any momentum gained was taken away in first-half stoppage time, though, as Gargano released Hernandez with a cutting pass and the striker poked the ball into the bottom corner to complete his hat-trick. After the interval it looked as though Oscar Tabarez's men would add their fifth goal when the referee pointed to the spot in the 50th minute following Nicolas Vallar's foul on Matias Aguirregaray, but things did not go to plan.

 Meriel denied Hernandez the record of becoming the first player to score five goals in a single Confederations Cup game with a great save, but substitute Suarez was not to be kept out eight minutes from time as he turned Henri Caroine inside out and rolled the ball into the bottom corner. Suarez then added his second with a tidy finish from the top of the box in the final minute of normal time, becoming Uruguay's all-time highest-scoring player in the process with 35 goals. Uruguay's win sees them finish second in Group B, setting up a semi-final encounter with hosts Brazil. Tahiti, meanwhile, held up a banner to thank their hosts after the full-time whistle, and will return to French Polynesia having won the hearts of both the host nation and the watching world with their efforts during the tournament.

Barcelona must be beaming about Neymar - Scolari

Luiz Felipe Scolari has told Barcelona fans that they should be excited about the prospect of Neymar representing their club next term. The Brazil forward scored an excellent second-half free kick to help the Selecao to victory and underline his credentials as one of the world's most exciting young players. And his coach was full of praise for the striker, who sealed a big-money move to Camp Nou at the end of May. "Neymar is an idol for all Brazilians," the 64-year-old trainer told a press conference. "

 "He had lots of moments of quality, but what decided the game was the free kick," the former Chelsea boss continued. "He noticed [Gianluigi] Buffon had taken a step to the side and put the ball on the other side. Only players who have that kind of notion, that we can call genius, are the ones who make the difference. And he makes the difference. "Maybe you weren't seeing it before, but the other players were. 

 The Brazil forward scored an excellent second-half free kick to help the Selecao to victory and underline his credentials as one of the world's most exciting young players. And his coach was full of praise for the striker, who sealed a big-money move to Camp Nou at the end of May. "Neymar is an idol for all Brazilians," the 64-year-old trainer told a press conference. 

. "He had lots of moments of quality, but what decided the game was the free kick," the former Chelsea boss continued. "He noticed [Gianluigi] Buffon had taken a step to the side and put the ball on the other side. Only players who have that kind of notion, that we can call genius, are the ones who make the difference. And he makes the difference. "Maybe you weren't seeing it before, but the other players were. He's a team player, and as a team player he is phenomenal. "I hope to see the whole team improving. Neymar has been playing well and he's adding virtues to the team that we always knew he had, but that he could develop further. "But the team needs to grow as a whole, and in doing so Neymar will grow with us."

Nigeria 0-3 Spain: Jordi Alba and Torres ensure world champions top Group B

Spain wrapped up their group stage campaign of the Confederations Cup with ease after recording a comfortable 3-0 victory over Nigeria at the Estadio Castelao Fortaleza A brilliant solo double from Jordi Alba and a header from substitute Fernando Torres sealed the victory over a disappointing Super Eagles side, who were undone by their own inability to finish the numerous chances that came their way.  However, the early barrage continued, with Jordi Alba opening the scoring two minutes later in scintillating fashion. Picking up the ball after a neat pass from Iniesta, the Barcelona full-back embarked on a fine run, slaloming past three Nigerian defenders before coolly slotting the ball past Enyeama to put La Roja 1-0 up. The African champions struggled in the opening exchanges, with Cesc Fabregas denied by Enyaema, but at the other end, they too saw a chance go begging, with Sergio Ramos hurriedly thwarting John Obi Mikel, after the ball had fallen to him following good work by Joseph Akpala. Stephen Keshi's side rallied, and were posing numerous problems for the world and European champions. Set through by Ideye Brown, Sunday Mba produced a stinging effort from distance which required Valdes to divert it away for a corner. But Spain continued to dominate in search for a second. First, Ramos' superb long ball picked out Roberto Soldado, whose brief hesitation allowed Enyeama to recover, before the Valencia striker's pin-point delivery off the wing for Fabregas, saw the latter strike against the post. Nigeria's profligate finishing continued early into the second half. Ahmed Musa's threatening delivery off the right flank picked out Brown in the middle, but somehow, the striker couldn't connect cleanly with the ball, though at the other end, Xavi flashed a free-kick narrowly over the bar as both sides' search for another goal continued. Just after the hour, Spain doubled their advantage. Torres, who had been only on the field for two minutes, capitalised on some poor defending to power a header from Pedro's fine cross. Nigeria began to tire towards the end of the second period, amidst the typical passing intensity imposed by their opponents, but they once again failed to beat Valdes in the Spain goal. Another teasing delivery from Musa saw substitute Muhammad Gambo to somehow fire horribly wide of the post. Alba wrapped up a fine performance with two minutes to go, latching onto David Silva's long pass to round Enyeama and into an empty net to seal an emphatic second and Spain's third. Spain top Group B with nine points, and will face Itay in a rematch of last year's Euro 2012 final in the last four on Thursday in Fortaleza.

Several police officers have suffered injuries as citizen protests during Saturday's Confederations Cup match between Brazil and Italy escalated to violence. Locals have staged demonstrations against the Brazilian government's funding of the eight-way World Cup dress rehearsal, in addition to the tournament actual in 2014 and the subsequent Olympics in 2016. The security threat to the host nation's final group game against the Azzurri had been aggravated to a point that officials were forced to deploy military enforcement in and around Mineirao. Proceedings kicked off in an atmosphere of relative peace nevertheless, as the home supporters initially celebrated their team's goals in the 4-2 demolition of Cesare Prandelli's men to top Group A. However, reports on local radio of the onrushing of a demonstration numbering 100,000 strong headed for the stadium from Belo Horizonte - the surrounding locale - incited a frenzy. Around 3,000 protesters directly engaged the police outside the complex. Authorities surrounding the stadium were bombarded by a myriad of objects ranging from rocks to crude bombs. Five policemen are estimated to have sustained injuries resulting from the assaults, adding to the dozens of civilian casualties and pair of deaths that have been inflicted so far. Brazil president Dilma Rousseff had appealed for the protesters to disengage in a television broadcast on Friday, citing funding for the World Cup was not drawn from tax income. Fifa, the competition's organisers, has decided against postponing the remaining fixtures, despite reports claiming a participating nation has requested for such.

Schalke interested in Fulham defender Riether

The 30-year-old defender has only recently made his loan spell at Craven Cottage permanent, but Shalke general manager Horst Heldt has revealed the Bundesliga side are interested in recruiting the former Koln man.

Funny video: Battle of the bootylicious: Omotola vs Toolz

I'm listening to Olamide-ft-DBanj-First-Of-All-remix[naij... @Hulkshare:

I'm listening to Olamide-ft-DBanj-First-Of-All-remix[naij... @Hulkshare:

Messi: World Cup absence makes me sad

Barcelona star Lionel Messi has expressed his anguish at being without a World Cup winners' medal in his trophy cabinet. The Argentina forward, who turns 26 on Monday, has won four Ballons d'Or in a row but he stressed that what he really craves is the greatest prize in international football to add to his silverware collection. "Between a fifth Ballon d'Or and a World Cup with Argentina, I'd want the latter, without a doubt," he told Corriere della Sera. "I'm missing a World Cup; it makes me sad." Despite widely being considered as the best footballer on the planet right now, Messi's record-breaking antics fall on deaf ears at home with his wife Antonella, and the Blaugrana star admitted that he does not watch much of the sport he excels at. He added: "I never watch football on television. Antonella gets bored with it. I come home and tell her I scored two or three goals, and she doesn't even hear me!" Messi is currently recovering from a hamstring injury that saw him only appear intermittently in the final two months of Barcelona's Liga-winning 2012-13 campaign.

What would you do for a free Samsung Galaxy Note 8?

A few Sundays ago, a mysterious Galaxy Note 8 was spotted in a Samsung Mobile Shop at the Ikeja City Mall, challenging visitors at the Mall to rise up to day & seize it for themselves! Curiosity they say Kills the Cat, but not by Samsung Mobile Nigeria's standards... They reward those brave enough to see an imaginative opportunity & take it. Watch the video above...

Ghanaian footballer Michael Essien secretly weds his publicist

There have been speculations for months now that Ghanaian footballer and Chelsea star Michael Essien is married to his publicist, Akosua Puni, a report they both never denied or confirmed. The report was regarded as mere speculation until last week Friday when Akosua introduced herself as Mrs Akosua Puni Essien at a cocktail charity event - Game Of Hope - organized by Michael Essien. Akosua was in charge of the event and everyone who worked with her referred to her as Mrs Essien. The Ghanaian showbiz personality and socialite is also the head of the Michael Essien Foundation. Michael and Akosua had a child together shortly after his relationship with Nadia Buari ended a few years back, though the football star has never acknowledged being married and does not wear a ring. He has three kids from two different women.

New Video: Adetoun - Cindarella

Adetoun is the 2nd runner up of MTN Project Fame Season 5. The versatile performer and graduate of Mass Communication fom Olabisi Onabanjo University, just released the video of her hot new single - Cindarella. Adetoun has a sublime touch to most genres of music but expresses a bias towards soul, jazz, R&B and her new found style Waka. Enjoy..

Obi Mikel Amazing Goal vs Uruguay ( Nigeria 1-1 Uruguay )

New Video: Ice Prince - VIP

Messi gets court date over tax fraud allegations

Barcelona star Lionel Messi and his father Jorge have been summoned to appear in court on September 17 in order to provide evidence against recent tax fraud allegations. A complaint, signed by prosecutor Raquel Amado, was filed with the courthouse in the Gava district of Barcelona last week and it has now been decided that there is enough evidence to summon the Argentine. The Spanish tax authorities claim that the prolific attacker and his father have avoided paying the charges due from sales of the 25-year-old's image rights by operating through companies based outside of the country, totalling over €4 million between 2006 and 2009. Messi stressed last week that he is innocent and unaware of committing any infringements. "We have learned through the media about the claim filed by the Spanish tax authorities. We are surprised about this news, because we have not committed any infringement," a statement from the 25-year-old read. "We have always fulfilled all of our tax obligations, following the advice of our tax consultants, who will take care of clarifying this situation." The attacker's fiscal and legal advisor Angel Juarez, meanwhile, insisted that they had not heard anything yet when the news broke last week, while adding that they were ready for any legal battle. "Neither we nor our client have received any notification from the prosecutor in relation to what has been reported," a statement signed by Juarez read. "As his legal and fiscal council, we will take all the appropriate legal action against the complaint of the prosecutor and we are confident that justice will prevail." Messi's camp is yet to react to the latest developments. Under Spanish law, Messi could face a maximum penalty of six years in prison if found guilty.

Nigeria and Ureguay has finally ended 2 is to 1 in favour of Ureguary

The Match between Nigeria and Ureguay has finally ended 2 is to 1 in favour of Ureguary and here is the match analysis.

 At the opening momen Vincent Enyeama Fired a goal kick straight at Suarez to put his team on the back foot in the opening moments, but was blameless for the two goals which put Uruguay in the ascendancy.

Godfrey Oboabona Tough and strong at the back, but his mobility was sometimes lacking up against Uruguay’s quick-thinking forwards. Also kept Cavani onside for a chance that should have seen the South American champs go 3-1 up. 

Uwa Elderson Echiejile Made good territory down the left flank and also showed decent strength to hold off Pereira as he attacked at the other end. Could have had a greater say in the second half, but remained wary of Suarez’s threat down the right. 

E. Ambrose Did superbly to chase down a lost cause of a ball which won Nigeria a throw-in, but within minutes was being tortured by Suarez at the other end. Failed to press close enough at times as the wide men made hay. 

Kenneth Omeruo Enjoyed quite a tussle at times with Cavani, and showed no ill effects from the knock just before half-time which saw him complete the game with his head strapped. Found it difficult to unite the Nigeria defence as a unit as they looked to deal with Suarez and Forlan, but did well to deny Cavani in injury time.

 John Ogochukwu Ogu Almost got on the end of a cross-field pass early in the second half but his desperate slide came just too late. Sometimes lost out due to the inability to think quickly in tight situations and was replaced on 65 minutes by Mba. 

John Obi Mikel Played a wonderful angled pass for Oduamadi which may have led to a goal on another night, then fired home superbly after foxing Lugano with great skill to shift the ball onto his left foot. Continued in his attempts to dictate the game thereafter, but found it difficult to penetrate Uruguay’s organised midfield.

 Fegor Ogude Showed his naive side with an early foul on Suarez which put Nigeria in a good position to attack, but also regenerated possession well when breaking up Uruguay attacks and rarely lost the ball. Nnamdi Oduamadi Could have done better when teed up by Mikel early on, and failed to deliver the same level of threat he managed against Tahiti before being replaced before half-time by Babatunde after suffering a knock 

Ahmed Musa Hit a strong effort towards goal from a first-half free kick which had Muslera scrambling to block, but his overall impact was nowhere near as key as in the clash with Tahiti and he was often wasteful in possession. 

B. Ideye Disappointed the majority of the crowd with a poor shot from a free kick 20 yards from goal, then saw an acrobatic over-head effort fail to trouble Muslera. Turned superbly in the box only to be foiled by Maxi Pereira as he looked for a leveller. Replaced by Akpala with 17 minutes to go.

New Video: P-Square - Personally

The video is a tribute to Michael Jackson... finally P-Square is improving day by day, this is the combination of Michael Jackson and Usher plus some Niaja dance steps, you got to watch it ...Enjoy.

Nigeria relaxed and confident ahead of clash against Uruguay

Nigeria arrived in Salvador, Bahia two days before their clash against Uruguay at Estadio Pituacu. The African champions held their first training inside the arena on Tuesday as they prepare to play against the champions of South America in Thursday’s match. The Super Eagles defeated Tahiti 6-1 to stay top of Group B on goals difference ahead of world and European champions Spain. Gone was the troubled start to the tournament that ensured the team arrived hours to their opening game due to a bonus row. "We're ready. Of course we have had our issues. But that is not who we are. What we want to do is play football. I am proud of my players for the way they overcame tiredness, jetlag and everything else to get three points and those goals against Tahiti,” coach Stephen Keshi told KickOffNigeria.com. "Now we have tried to get them as much rest as possible and we just want them to have fun on Thursday. "We know a little more about Uruguay. So we can plan a little better, but we will not be preparing much different from the way we normally do. "We have our own methods, our own tactics and our own way of playing, and that is what we plan to do." Both nations have never met at senior level and it promises to be an exciting encounter on Thursday in Salvador. The match will start 11pm (West African Time).

Neymar's best ever Brazil performance

Brazil have Neymar to thank for their progression to the Confederations Cup semi-finals as the new Barcelona signing disguised a dour team performance by providing his most impressive display to date for the Selecao. Despite a record of 138 goals in 230 games for Santos, the 21-year-old remains a player who divides opinion. Having had his name mentioned alongside the likes of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, he was adjudged to have not adequately displayed the ability to warrant such comparisons when in the global eye. Doubts over how good he could become had, perhaps justifiably, arisen.

D'banj's D' Kings Men concert holds this Sunday June 23 @Eko Hotel

Ndani TV and DB Records presents D' Kings Men Concert featuring Superstars, 2Chainz, Dbanj (Eja Nla), Olamide (Badoo), Wizkid (Wizzy), Fally Ipupa, Iyanya, Timaya, Naeto C. Also featuring Kay Switch, J Sol, Durella and Ikechukwu.

South West PDP Endorses Jonathan For Second Term In Office

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the South West yesterday endorsed President Goodluck Jonathan for a second term in office come 2015. This position was contained in a communiqué signed by the Chairman, South West Caretaker Committee of PDP, Chief Ishola Filani at the end of a meeting of the Forum. “After carefully x-raying the President’s qualities and in view of the fact that he is constitutionally qualified to seek re-election, the forum unanimously endorsed him for a second term in 2015,” the communiqué reads. While passing a vote of confidence in the transformation agenda of Jonathan and the leadership role of the National Chairman of the PDP, the forum passed same on the PDP National Working Committee, as well as its Zonal Caretaker Committee.

Samsung Galaxy Grand I9082 (White)

Similar to the almost identical SIII, the Samsung Galaxy Grand is outfitted with a deluxe large display to meet your needs. Everything from larger font size to immersive viewing, brilliant visuals are guaranteed. Enjoy exclusive viewing experience while on the go. Slim design ensures portability of GALAXY Grand for those who want to have a large screen without compromising portability. Powered by Android™ 4.1.2 (Jelly Bean), the latest version of the world’s most popular smartphone operating system. Jelly Bean has fast, fluid and smooth graphics along with a new Google Search™ experience featuring Google Now™, which brings you just the right information, before you ask.

Julius Agwu quits comedy after two decades as an entertainer

Serena Williams heavily criticised for blaming rape victim

The world champion is being heavily criticized over remarks she made about the victim of the Steubenville Ohio rape case. A 16-year-old girl who was raped by high school football players, Trent Mays and Ma'Lik Richmond, who were each sentenced to a year in juvenile jail in March this year. During an interview with Rolling Stone magazine, Serena blamed the girl for putting herself in a position where the boys could rape her. She said:

Video: Rihanna hits fan in the face with her mic at her concert

A video surfaced online recently showing the pop star hitting a fan in the face with her mic after the fan refused to let go of her arm as she walked through the crowd at her show in Birmingham, UK. Watch...

Who is your top defender of the season?

This is the sixth edition of the prize, which has previously been won by current holder Cristiano Ronaldo (twice), Barcelona star Lionel Messi (twice) and Wesley Sneijder in 2010. As part of the build-up to this year's gong, we are running a series of polls asking readers to vote for their own best players in each position for what should be an intriguing debate.

After kicking off with the goalkeepers, we now put forward a number of high-profile candidates who can lay claim to having been the best defender in the world game over the last 12 months. Bayern Munich were undoubtedly the team of the season and they have three representatives in our list. Right-back Philipp Lahm, central defender Dante and left-back David Alaba all impressed throughout 2012-13.

Pillars, Wolves, Sunshine battle for honours as Federation Cup takes centre stage

The 2013 Federation Cup competition has kicked off again with interesting fixtures to be decided in the Round of 64 cracker billed for different centres across the country, Leading elite clubs Kano Pillars, Sunshine Stars and Warri Wolves are among 34 teams that will be involved in the Round of 64 games of this year’s Federation Cup competition on Wednesday. Wolves go up against Dynamite FC of Benin City at the Rojenny Stadium in Oba, near Onitsha while Sunshine Stars, semi finalists in last year’s CAF Champions League competition, will tackle Fountain FC of Ekiti at the Ilorin Sports Stadium. Pillars, reigning Premier League Champions, take on Global Academy FC of Anambra at the Confluence Stadium in Lokoja.

Capello on PSG brink after betting is suspended

Fabio Capello is expected to become the next coach of Paris Saint-Germain after bookmakers suspended betting on the Russia boss taking over the newly-crowned Ligue 1 champions. The French giants look set to lose Carlo Ancelotti to Real Madrid in the next few days following the Italian's decision to join los Blancos, with the 67-year-old emerging as the favourite to succeed his countryman.

According to Sky Sport Italia, PSG have agreed to pay the €3 million necessary to release Capello from his contract with the Russian FA, with a lucrative one-year deal currently in the works.

Capello's son and agent Pierfilippo was believed to have travelled to Paris on Tuesday to apply the finishing touches to negotiations with sporting director Leonardo, and an appointment now appears to be imminent.

The former Juventus and AC Milan coach was as big as 16/1 with BetVictor less than 24 hours ago, but all betting markets on the Italian joining les Parisiens have now closed. The switch to PSG marks Capello's return to club football for the first time since leaving Real Madrid in 2007, having spent the past six years on the international scene with England and Russia.

Heynckes urges Bayern to sign Isco

Former Bayern Munich coach Jupp Heynckes has advised the Champions League winners to make a move for Malaga star Isco in the summer transfer window.

The attacking midfielder is continually being linked with a move to a bigger club following his fine performances in 2012-13 and revealed earlier this week that Manchester City and Real Madrid are keen to lure him away from his current club ahead of next season.

However, if it was up to Heynckes, the Spain Under-21 international would continue his career at the Bundesliga giants instead.

"Who should Bayern sign? There are some very interesting players out there, like Malaga star Isco. He's a class act in midfield," Heynckes told Kicker.

The 21-year-old has a contract with Malaga until 2016, but has a €35 million buy-out clause.

Bayern have already secured the services of Mario Gotze from Borussia Dortmund and Jan Kirchhoff from Mainz for next season.

Heynckes announced his retirement earlier this week after guiding Bayern to a historic treble this term. The Bavarians had previously already appointed Pep Guardiola as his successor.

Real Madrid offer world-record €155m deal to keep Cristiano Ronaldo

The Portuguese superstar is in advanced negotiations over a five-year contract that will be the most lucrative in the history of football ever. Cristiano Ronaldo is close to agreeing a new contract with Real Madrid which will make him the world's highest-earning footballer,

Madrid are in advanced talks with Ronaldo's representatives over a deal totalling around €155 million over five years, with the Portuguese forward set to earn €15m annually after tax in what will be the most lucrative contract in the history of the game.

Ronaldo, who has scored 201 goals in just 199 games in his four seasons at the Santiago Bernabeu, raised alarm bells on Thursday when he posted a cryptic message on Twitter which read simply: "All the news about my renewal with Real Madrid are false." Days earlier, however, he revealed his intention to remain at the Spanish side beyond his current contract, which expires in 2015.

After Portugal's 1-0 win over Russia in a World Cup qualifier last week, Ronaldo said: "I haven't spoken to anyone yet, [but] I know we will reach an agreement on a new contract. The most important thing now is the national team." And he also claimed his future has nothing to do with the departure of coach Jose Mourinho. "I am not worried by what Mourinho does; I am concerned with Real Madrid and my future," he said in May. The pair's relationship, once excellent, deteriorated in recent months following an angry dispute over a tactical correction made by Mourinho in a game against Valencia in January.