NPFL: Niger Tornadoes in high spirits for Abia Warriors clash

Bayern Munich manager, Vincent Kompany has named Barcelona legend Ronaldinho as the toughest player he ever faced during his playing days as a professional footballer.

Kompany picked Ronaldinho over Al-Nassr’s Cristiano Ronaldo and Inter Miami’s Lionel Messi.

Reflecting on his experiences as a professional footballer, the Belgian said Ronaldinho left a lasting impression on him during one particular game.

Kompany also acknowledged Ronaldo and Messi as the best players, but he reserved special admiration for Ronaldinho.

“There were many, but there was one who impressed me more than any other. It was Ronaldinho, do you know him?” Kompany said (via MARCA) when asked about the toughest player he ever faced.

“Of course, Messi and Ronaldo are incredibly good; they are probably the best players, but from what I saw in one game, it was Ronaldinho.”

He impressed me more – Kompany snubs Ronaldo, Messi, names toughest player he ever faced

Former Manchester United left-back, Patrice Evra, has said he is rooting for Arsenal to win the Premier League title this season

Evra was speaking to Stake following the latest midweek fixtures.

The Gunners currently sit seven points above second-placed Manchester City on the table.

Evra said: Man City’s draw against Nottingham Forest is a big boost, and even if Brighton had lots of chances, Arsenal won.

“This is a sign of a Premier League winner.

“It was a good chance for Man City to keep the gap close, I don’t think it’s over but that win against Brighton was big for Arsenal.

“I want Arsenal to win the league, I just hope they don’t bottle it again.

“People like the joke I made about calling them Netflix, we always have to wait for next season. Come on Arsenal, you can do it this year, but I wouldn’t be surprised if they bottle it again.”

EPL: I hope Arsenal don’t bottle it – Evra names team to win title

FIFA will deliver its verdict on Nigeria’s eligibility protest against DR Congo on Monday, February 16.

Last December, the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, officially complained, saying at least six DR Congo players who played in the 2025 African playoff final in November were not allowed to play because they recently changed their nationality.

The Super Eagles lost the match 4-3 on penalties after it ended 1-1 in regulation time.

Recently, the NFF General Secretary, Dr Mohammed Sanusi, said, “We have a good case.”

Sanusi also added, “We don’t go into things that would be a waste of time. We believe we have a strong case, and we are waiting for FIFA’s decision on our complaints.”

If FIFA supports Nigeria, they will be allowed to take part in the Intercontinental Play-Off tournament, which will take place in March in Mexico.

Winning a top spot in that tournament would earn Nigeria one of the remaining African spots for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

2026 World Cup: FIFA sets date to rule on Nigeria’s petition against DR Congo