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Arteta urges Arsenal to banish painful history with Bayern

Mikel Arteta has challenged Arsenal to prove their wretched Champions League record against Bayern Munich is ancient history as the Gunners look to seize their “special” opportunity to reach the semi-finals.

Arteta’s side have endured a series of chastening defeats against Bayern over the last decade, but Arteta expects them to reverse that trend in Tuesday’s quarter-final first leg.

Beaten 5-1 in each of their last three meetings with Bayern, Arsenal were eliminated from the Champions League by the German club in the last 16 in 2017, 2014, 2013 and 2005.

However, Premier League leaders Arsenal are in superb form, while Bayern arrive at the Emirates Stadium in turmoil.

Arteta puts no stock in his club’s past problems against Bayern and the Spaniard called on his players to justify his faith.

“That’s history. When you look at their history in the competition it’s clear. We have to prove that, that’s for sure,” Arteta told reporters on Monday.

“Football is such a competitive environment and it’s so hard to be consistent that this can happen to anybody.

“We are really enjoying the moment because this is where we want to be. We are in a really good position in the Premier League and we are in a good position in the Champions League.

“We have a big task ahead of us against one of the successful teams in Europe. That’s the hurdle we have to overcome and we are really looking forward to it.”

Arsenal have not made the Champions League semi-finals since 2009 and will be playing in the last eight for the first time since 2010.

While Bayern are well below their usual standards this term, Arteta is relishing the opportunity to face the six-time European champions.

– ‘So excited’ –

“A lot of passion and emotion. We haven’t had this opportunity for 15 years so that tells you how special this night is going to be for us. We are going to have put everything into every ball to make it happen,” he said.

“It’s been a really demanding season and it’s a big step forward to be here in this competition, and competing in the Premier League. This is the challenge and we are so excited to be part of that.”

Bayern squandered a two-goal lead in a 3-2 loss to Heidenheim last weekend that all but extinguished their slim hopes of catching Bundesliga leaders Bayer Leverkusen.

Thomas Tuchel’s troubled team have lost five of their last 10 games in all competitions.

Yet Arteta’s respect for Tuchel — a Champions League winner with Chelsea in 2021 — ensured he would not underestimate Bayern.

“They are top team. I’m a big admirer of Thomas. The way his teams set-up, the way they play, the way they transmit. I have learned a lot from him and looking at them they are a top team,” he said.

“We have prepared well and now we have to take our game where we want to. If we do that we have a chance to win.

Even the presence of Bayern striker Harry Kane, who scored a north London derby record 14 goals against Arsenal during his time with Tottenham, is unlikely to rattle the Gunners.

Asked about the threat posed by the England captain, Arteta said: “When you look at his numbers over the past 10 years they are unbelievable.

“He can score in many different ways. He has got the service and the players around him as well to provide those opportunities.

“We know the individual qualities of those players, and him in particular. The ability he has. The best thing is to collectively prevent certain things.”

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Local News

William Troost-Ekong Bows Out: An Emotional Farewell That Shakes Up The Super Eagles Camp

William Troost-Ekong Bows Out In Emotional Goodbye

Super Eagles fans woke up to unexpected news as captain William Troost-Ekong officially announced his retirement from international football. Despite being listed in Eric Chelle’s 54-man provisional squad for AFCON 2025, the 2023 AFCON MVP revealed via a heartfelt video on X (formerly Twitter) that his journey with Nigeria had reached its final chapter.

The announcement came with a touching message:
“HONOURED. GRATEFUL. FOREVER A SUPER EAGLE. Playing for Nigeria has been the greatest privilege of my life. The journey may end here, but my support never will. Here’s to the next chapter.”

With 83 caps in 10 years, Ekong leaves behind a legacy of leadership, consistency, and unmatched patriotism. He was instrumental in Nigeria’s run to the 2023 AFCON final and became one of the most respected voices in the national team.

Why Now? A Transition Already In Motion

In recent months, Troost-Ekong’s role had gradually shifted. The impressive rise of 20-year-old Benjamin Fredrick pushed him out of the starting XI, reducing the captain to a bench role. One of the most emotional revelations was his admission that he was supposed to take a penalty in Nigeria’s World Cup qualifier shootout against DR Congo—but being benched meant he couldn’t step up.

Still, Ekong showed class:
“I wasn’t frustrated; I just wanted to win this game… My role is to support the team as much as possible, both on and off the pitch.”

He had also hinted earlier this year that AFCON 2025 might be his final tournament, showing that this transition wasn’t entirely sudden—it was coming.

Ndidi Tipped To Take The Captain’s Armband

The big question now is: who leads the Super Eagles?
Former coach Sunday Oliseh believes the answer is simple—Wilfred Ndidi.

Ndidi has captained the team in recent matches and commands full respect in the squad. According to Oliseh:
“Nobody doubts the respect the players have for Ndidi. And he’s a player that plays every game.”

With AFCON 2025 approaching quickly, stability is crucial—and Ndidi might be the perfect bridge into Nigeria’s next era.

A Legacy Forever Etched In Nigerian Football

Troost-Ekong leaves as a true patriot: admired, respected, and loved. His leadership transcended the pitch—he was the voice of calm, the anchor in tough moments, and the embodiment of commitment.

For the Super Eagles, a new chapter begins.
But for fans, William Troost-Ekong will always remain a Super Eagle—forever.

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Local News

Ademola Lookman’s Latest Goal Shows Why Atalanta Must Stop Underrating The Nigerian Star

Ademola Lookman is reminding Atalanta—and the entire Serie A—why he should never be underestimated again. The Super Eagles forward delivered another decisive performance, scoring in Atalanta’s crucial 2-0 win over Fiorentina to snap an eight-game winless run.

This latest strike marks his second goal in two matches, further proving that the recently dethroned African Player of the Year is hitting top form again under new coach Raffaele Palladino ahead of AFCON 2025.

Match Summary

Fiorentina started brightly, forcing Marco Carnesecchi into a dramatic double save inside the opening five minutes. David De Gea responded moments later with a superb fingertip stop to deny Charles De Ketelaere.

Atalanta eventually broke through late in the first half when Odilon Kossounou’s whipped effort found the net to make it 1-0.

Shortly after the restart, Lookman doubled the lead. A corner routine turned chaotic, but the Nigerian reacted fastest, smashing home the second goal and sealing the contest.

The win moved Atalanta up to 11th, easing relegation concerns, while Fiorentina slipped further into the danger zone under Paolo Vanoli.

Nigerian Fans Demand Respect

Back in Nigeria, social media exploded. Many fans believe Atalanta have not treated Lookman with the respect he deserves—especially after the winger openly expressed frustration during the summer while pushing for a move.

One fan wrote, “Release our boy by January transfer. We don’t care about Atalanta anymore.”
Another added, “Hopefully you idiots won’t disrespect him anymore.”

The criticism kept coming, with some calling the relationship “toxic,” while others demanded a public apology. Transfer chatter resurfaced too, with fans urging Galatasaray to make a move for him.

But Lookman has let his football do the talking. His recent form—including a Champions League goal and an assist against Eintracht Frankfurt—has silenced doubts around Bergamo.

.@Alookman_ is in the game #AtalantaFiorentina #GoAtalantaGo ⚫ pic.twitter.com/V1CD4chkYv

— Atalanta B.C. (@Atalanta_BC) November 30, 2025

AFCON 2025 Boost For Nigeria

Coach Palladino has publicly praised Lookman, calling him an “essential asset” for Atalanta’s attack. His pace, finishing, and consistency make him just as vital for Nigeria.

With Eric Chelle preparing his AFCON squad, Lookman’s resurgence—two goals in two games after the summer’s Inter Milan saga—sets him up as one of the Super Eagles’ key weapons heading into the tournament.

Once again, Ademola Lookman is proving exactly who he is: a star who demands respect.

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Uncategorized

Guinness Match Day Regular Lifts Fans’ Energy Across Five Nigerian Cities

Fans enjoying Guinness Match Day with football viewing and activities across Nigerian cities

Guinness Brings Fans Together Across Nigeria

The Guinness Match Day experience delivered high energy and excitement across five Nigerian cities as football fans gathered to watch games, react live, and enjoy ice-cold Guinness. From kickoff to the final whistle, fans were treated to thrilling football action alongside interactive activities and prizes.

Fans’ Favorite Activities

Guests enjoyed:

One free Guinness for every two bottles purchased.
The Predict and Win game, with winners taking home branded jerseys and VIP Guinness cards.
Fast-paced commentary and reward drops from Match Day Hosts.
Online engagement via Instagram Stories, where digital fans had the chance to win six-packs of Guinness cans.

The atmosphere combined football, social connection, and rewards, making each city’s event unforgettable.

Energy Across The Cities

Lagos: Loud reactions and an electric vibe in the crowd.
Ibadan: Steady participation and football discussions.
Jos: Active engagement during Predict and Win activities.
Owerri: Strong community spirit and fan interaction.
Enugu: Lively viewing session to close the week of celebrations.

Each city reflected Guinness’s commitment to building football communities across Nigeria.

What’s Next for Guinness Match Day

Guinness is continuing to strengthen its bond with Nigerian football fans. The next Match Day viewing experience will take place on November 30 in:

Owerri: Landmark Events Center
Abuja: Papiee’s Meatro

Entry is free, but fans are required to register at www.GuinnessMatchDay.com to secure participation. Stay updated via @Guinness_Africa on Instagram for news and surprises.

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