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Cincinnati Open: Williams beats Kudermetova for biggest win in four years

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American veteran Venus Williams beat a top-20 player for the first time in four years with victory over Russia’s Veronika Kudermetova in Cincinnati.

Williams, 43, fought back from a double break down in each set to win 6-4 7-5 against 16th-ranked Kudermetova.

The seven-time major singles champion smiled broadly as she celebrated winning at a US tournament for the first time in more than three years.

“I love this game, it’s what I do,” said Williams, who is ranked 533rd.

“The last few years have been difficult in terms of injuries but I love to be out here, be strong and be myself. I’m getting there.”

Williams will play China’s Qinwen Zheng or Belarus’ Aliaksandra Sasnovich in the second round.

The former world number one will look to win back-to-back matches on the WTA Tour for the first time since the 2019 event in Cincinnati.

That was also the tournament when she last won against a top-20 opponent, beating then world number five Kiki Bertens on her way to the quarter-finals.

Later on Monday, Wimbledon champion Marketa Vondrousova plays fellow Czech Katerina Siniakova, while Danish former number one Caroline Wozniacki continues her comeback after retirement against France’s Varvara Gracheva.

Wozniacki was supposed to face Ukraine’s Elina Svitolina, but the Wimbledon semi-finalist – who has also recently returned to the tour after having a baby – pulled out with a foot injury.

In the men’s draw, British number two Dan Evans plays Italy’s Lorenzo Musetti in his opening match.

The Western and Southern Open in Cincinnati is one of the key tournaments on the American hard-court swing which culminates at the US Open.

The final Grand Slam event of the season starts in New York on 28 August.

British women’s number two Jodie Burrage, who has direct entry for the main draw at Flushing Meadows, continued her preparations with a 6-4 6-2 win over Russian fifth seed Diana Shnaider at the Golden Gate Open.

But Heather Watson lost 6-2 6-4 to Belarusian Iryna Shymanovich at the Californian event.

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Nigeria Premier League

Shehu Abdullahi : The Maestro’s Midfield Magic

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By Abdul A Kaugama

Shehu Abdullahi’s outstanding performance in Kano Pillars’ recent match has left fans and critics in awe. The midfielder’s clinical work and vision on the pitch prove that he’s still a force to be reckoned with in Nigerian football.

With precision passing and exceptional control, Shehu dictated the pace of the game, showcasing his mastery of the midfield.

His experience and skill were evident as he effortlessly navigated the opposition’s defense. The fans’ electrifying energy was matched only by Shehu’s infectious passion for the game.

Shehu’s resurgence is a testament to his dedication and hard work. His display of top-notch football skills is a clarion call for his return to the Super Eagles. Nigeria’s national team needs his expertise and leadership to excel on the international stage.

In conclusion, Shehu Abdullahi’s impressive form is a welcome development for Nigerian football. As he continues to dazzle fans with his midfield magic, we eagerly anticipate his next move.
May Allah continue to bless Shehu Abdullahi with strength, wisdom, and success in his football career.

Source: Facebook

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Nigeria Premier League

Lobi Stars Face Sunshine in Ijebu Ode in NPFL Matchday 12 Clash

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Lobi Stars Face Sunshine in Ijebu Ode in NPFL Matchday 12 Clash

Following the team’s recent victory over Abia Warriors, Lobi Stars’ head coach, Mika Lönnström, has urged his team to maintain momentum as they aim to exit the relegation zone against Sunshine Stars.

A full-strength squad, including Ossy Martins, and Emmanuel Nnaji, will travel to Ijebu Ode, while Moses Tsehuan, Itodo Akor, and Samuel Tiza remain sidelined due to injury.

The two teams have a history of home wins, with Lobi Stars securing a 3-2 home victory in their previous encounter in Lafia, while Sunshine Stars won 2-0 in a reverse in Akure.

Key players to watch include Ossy Martins, Segun Olorintoba, and Sunshine Stars’ trio of David Obiazo, Seth Mayi, and Tunde Sodiq.

Dipo Dino International Stadium will host the highly anticipated match.

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Lagos FA Ready For Super Falcons, Algeria Friendly

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Lagos State Football Association has reiterated its readiness to host the second leg of the friendly matches between the Super Falcons and the Green Ladies of Algeria.

The match is slated to hold at the prestigious Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, Lagos. And towards a successful hosting, the Lagos FA, was today represented by Hon. Damilare Orimoloye, the SSA On Sports to His Excellency, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who hosted both teams to a reception Monday, at the State House.

Hon. Orimoloye, who is also a board member of the LSFA, speaking on behalf of FA Chairman Hajji Gafar Liameed, who travelled outside the country, enthused that Lagos FA, would as usual, put in its best efforts to ensure a seamless organisation of the international match.

The Super Falcons on Saturday defeated their Algerian counterparts 2-0, courtesy of a brace by Super Falcons captain Rasheedat Ajibade, in the first leg played at the Remo Stars Stadium, Ikenne.

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