Hat-Trick Hero Palmer Snatches Victory From Man United In Dramatic EPL Showdown

Published

10 months ago

April 5, 2024

Hat-trick hero Cole Palmer scored twice deep into stoppage time on Thursday as Chelsea stunned Manchester United 4-3, all but ending United’s hopes of qualifying for next season’s Champions League.

Erik ten Hag’s men appeared set for a famous victory after storming back from 2-0 down to lead 3-2 in a staggering game containing a combined 47 shots.

But Palmer had the last word, levelling from the penalty spot in the 100th minute and then netting the winner moments later.

Defeat for United leaves them 11 points off fourth-placed Aston Villa with just eight games to play and facing a season outside Europe’s elite club competition.

But it lifts Mauricio Pochettino’s men to 10th spot in the table, keeping them in the hunt for European places.

Chelsea came into the match without a win against Manchester United in 12 Premier League meetings but were ahead in just the fourth minute through captain Conor Gallagher.

Palmer doubled the home side’s lead with his first penalty in the 19th minute in a torrid opening for Ten Hag’s inconsistent team.

But two goals in a five-minute spell later in the first half by Alejandro Garnacho and Bruno Fernandes pulled the visitors level as the contest caught light.

Play swung wildly from end to end in a thrilling second period but Garnacho headed home a pinpoint cross from Antony to put United ahead in the 67th minute.

The visitors appeared set for a morale-boosting win but the officials signalled there would be eight minutes of added time.

Chelsea were given a lifeline when Diogo Dalot lunged at Noni Madueke and referee Jarred Gillett’s on-field decision to award a spot kick was confirmed after a lengthy VAR check.

But the drama did not stop there.

United were caught out by a quick corner from Enzo Fernandes, who played it short to Palmer.

The Chelsea man fired home past the despairing Onana with the help of a deflection to seal the three points, sending the Stamford Bridge crowd wild.

AFP

Para Badminton Int’l: Nigeria’s Bolaji wins gold in Egypt

Published

6 hours ago

January 27, 2025

Naijablitznews

By Francesca Hangeior

Paralympic bronze medalist, Eniola Bolaji, on Sunday won gold medal in her final match at the Egypt Para Badminton International 2025.

To get this point, Bolaji won all her previous games in the competition hosted by Egypt.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Bolaji defeated Sweden’s Hillevi Salomonsson 2-0 (21-1, 21-2) in the women’s SL3 final on Sunday in Cairo Egypt.

The African champion demonstrated her skill throughout the tournament, beating Shahinda Mohamed (21-7, 21-2).

She also defeated Basma Nabil-Fawzy (21-6, 21-4) and further conquered Elizabeth Puma (21-2, 21-4) with straight-set victories in earlier rounds.

Bolaji triumphed in dominant style, extending her remarkable winning streak by claiming her 10th title in 10 tournaments, while securing her 58th win in 64 matches

According to the Badminton World Federation (BWF), Bolaji has competed in 10 international championships over the past two years, emerging victorious in all.

This is a remarkable feat that bonds her as a force to be reckoned with in Para Badminton.

She broke multiple records and brought pride to Nigeria and Africa.

Bolaji’s achievement followed her radical success in 2024 where she made history as the first African athlete to win a badminton medal at the Paralympic Games

The Egypt Para Badminton International 2025 which started on Jan.21, ended on today (Jan. 26) in Cairo.

SAD Ex-Super Eagles Goalkeeper is dead

Published

9 hours ago

January 27, 2025

Naijablitznews

Moses Effiong, ex- Super Eagles goalkeeper and assistant coach of Akwa United Football Club, has passed away at the age of 65.
Moses Effiong died on Sunday, January 26, 2025, in the United States after a prolonged illness, just three months after celebrating his 65th birthday.

The news of his demise was confirmed by Akwa United’s Chairman, Paul Bassey, in a statement released by the club’s Media Director, Mfon Patrick. Effiong, a decorated football professional, was part of Nigeria’s historic 1980 Africa Cup of Nations-winning team and had an illustrious career as a player and coach.

Bassey expressed his condolences, describing Moses Effiong as a consummate professional, a gentleman, and a dedicated family man who was committed to every task assigned to him.

“The Management, staff, and players of Akwa United Football Club regret to announce the passing of our goalkeeper coach and a member of Nigeria’s 1980 Africa Cup of Nations-winning team, Effiong Moses (MON). He passed away early Sunday, January 26, 2025, in the United States, surrounded by family,” the statement read.

Moses Effiong played a pivotal role in Akwa United’s successes, contributing to the team’s victories in the FA Cup in 2015 and 2017, as well as their historic NPFL title win in 2021.

He also had a notable playing career, representing Nigeria and playing for New Nigerian Bank Football Club. His death marks a significant loss to the Nigerian football community.

Effiong is remembered for his exceptional contributions to football both on and off the pitch. His legacy will forever be etched in the hearts of fans, players, and colleagues.