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Football

Unveiling the Champions: Top-Earning Athletes in 2024

Unveiling the Champions: Top-Earning Athletes in 2024

Top-Earning Athletes in 2024 | GSB

The world’s Top-Earning Athletes list, according to the latest Forbes ranking, reveals Ronaldo remains at the top. This legendary footballer, who previously held the FIFA World Player of the Year title, who was once named FIFA World Player of the Year, made an amazing $260 million a year from his deal with Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia. From the $124 million he made the year before, this is a big increase.

A Surprise Contender Takes Second Place

Jon Rahm, the Spanish golfer who plays in the Saudi Arabia-supported LIV Golf league, has surprisingly taken second place with a total of $218 million inclusive of sponsorships. Lionel Messi currently at Inter Miami in America closely follows Rahm with $135 Million in third position—this shows how far apart the two top earners are.

African Stars Shine Bright

Mohamed Salah, an Egyptian star player for Liverpool, is ranked 38th and is Africa’s best-paid footballer, having made about $53 million. He is also the seventh-best-paid soccer player in the world. In addition, Sadio Mané, another great African player, makes it to this list in 40th place, having made a total of $52 million so far. This shows that Africa is becoming an increasing presence in world football.

Top 10 Highest-Paid Athletes (Forbes 2024)

  1. Cristiano Ronaldo (Football, $260 million)
  2. Jon Rahm (Golf, $218 million)
  3. Lionel Messi (Football, $135 million)
  4. LeBron James (Basketball, $128.2 million)
  5. Giannis Antetokounmpo (Basketball, $111 million)
  6. Kylian Mbappé (Football, $110 million)
  7. Neymar (Football, $108 million)
  8. Karim Benzema (Football, $106 million)
  9. Stephen Curry (Basketball, $102 million)
  10. Lamar Jackson (American Football, $100.5 million)

Top 8 Highest-Paid Football Players (Forbes 2024)

  1. Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal): $260 million
  2. Lionel Messi (Argentina): $135 million
  3. Kylian Mbappé (France): $110 million
  4. Neymar (Brazil): $108 million
  5. Karim Benzema (France): $106 million
  6. Erling Haaland (Norway): $61 million
  7. Mohamed Salah (Egypt):$53 million
  8. Sadio Mané (Senegal):$52 million
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Football

Paris 2024 Olympics: Witness African Football Fight for Gold!

Paris 2024 Olympics: Witness African Football Fight for Gold!

Paris 2024 Olympic Football: African Teams in Action | GSB

The wait is over! The 2024 Olympic Games have officially begun in Paris, France. From July 26th to August 11th, the world’s finest athletes will battle it out for Olympic glory across a variety of sporting disciplines.

Football Fever Grips the Olympics:

Football, also known as soccer in some parts of the world, holds a special place in the hearts of Olympic fans. This beloved sport has captivated audiences since its debut in Athens 1896 (excluding Los Angeles 1932). This year, powerhouses like Brazil, aiming for their third consecutive gold medal, and Canada, the reigning women’s champions, are expected to be crowd favorites. However, don’t underestimate the rising stars of African football!

African Teams Charge into Paris 2024!

Four proud African nations – Guinea, Mali, Egypt, and Morocco – have qualified for the prestigious Paris 2024 Olympic Football tournament. These teams are poised to showcase their talent and determination on the international stage.

Your Ultimate Guide to Paris 2024 Olympic Football:

Match Schedule:

Plan your Olympic Football viewing experience with this handy schedule:

Wednesday, July 24th:

  • 3 PM: Men’s Group A – Guinea vs. New Zealand (Stade de Nice)
  • 3 PM: Men’s Group B – Argentina vs. Morocco (Stade Geoffroy-Guichard)
  • 5 PM: Men’s Group C – Egypt vs. Dominican Republic (Stade de la Beaujoire)
  • 9 PM: Men’s Group D – Mali vs. Israel (Parc des Princes)

Saturday, July 27th:

  • 3 PM: Men’s Group B – Argentina vs. Iraq (Stade de Lyon)
  • 3 PM: Men’s Group C – Dominican Republic vs. Spain (Stade de Bordeaux)
  • 5 PM: Men’s Group C – Uzbekistan vs. Egypt (Stade de la Beaujoire)
  • 5 PM: Men’s Group B – Ukraine vs. Morocco (Stade Geoffroy-Guichard)
  • 7 PM: Men’s Group A – New Zealand vs. United States (Stade Vélodrome)
  • 7 PM: Men’s Group D – Israel vs. Paraguay (Parc des Princes)
  • 9 PM: Men’s Group A – France vs. Guinea (Stade de Nice)
  • 9 PM: Men’s Group D – Japan vs. Mali (Stade de Bordeaux)

 

Tuesday, July 30th:

  • 3 PM: Men’s Group C – Dominican Republic vs. Uzbekistan (Parc des Princes)
  • 3 PM: Men’s Group C – Spain vs. Egypt (Stade de Bordeaux)
  • 5 PM: Men’s Group B – Ukraine vs. Argentina (Stade de Lyon)
  • 5 PM: Men’s Group B – Morocco vs. Iraq (Stade de Nice)
  • 7 PM: Men’s Group A – United States vs. Guinea (Stade Geoffroy-Guichard)
  • 7 PM: Men’s Group A – New Zealand vs. France (Stade Vélodrome)
  • 9 PM: Men’s Group D – Paraguay vs. Mali (Parc des Princes)
  • 9 PM: Men’s Group D – Israel vs. Japan (Stade de la Beaujoire)

 

Stadiums:

Witness the magic unfold at these magnificent French venues:

  • Parc des Princes (Paris) – Final Venue
  • Stade Geoffroy-Guichard (Saint-Étienne)
  • Stade de la Beaujoire (Nice)
  • Stade de Bordeaux (Bordeaux)
  • Stade de Lyon (Lyon)
  • Stade Vélodrome (Marseille)

Ready to Cheer for African Football Greats?

The 2024 Paris Olympic Football tournament promises to be an electrifying spectacle. With passionate fans and world-class athletes competing for glory, this competition is one you won’t want to miss!

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Football

Europa League Champions: The Teams That Have Dominated the Tournament

Europa League Champions: The Teams That Have Dominated the Tournament

Europa League Winners | GSB

Europa League Champions: The Teams That Have Dominated  the Tournament

The Europa League, a prestigious European football competition, has seen many epic teams etch their names in history. However, which clubs have reigned supreme? Let’s delve into the ultimate ranking of Europa League (formerly UEFA Cup) champions!

 

Sevilla: The Undisputed Kings

Seville (7 titles) reigns supreme as the Europa League’s most successful club. Their era began in the mid-2000s, and they went on to win a historic three-in-a-row from 2014 to 2016. Their recent victory over Roma in the 2023 final cemented their status as legends.

 

European Elite: Teams with Multiple Titles

Beyond Sevilla, several European powerhouses boast multiple titles:

  • Inter Milan (3 titles): The Italian giants have claimed three  trophies, showcasing their strength on the continental stage.
  • Liverpool (3 titles): The English club’s rich European history includes three titles, a testament to their attacking prowess.
  • Juventus (3 titles): One of Italy’s most decorated clubs, Juventus boasts three titles, solidifying their position among Europe’s elite.
  • Atletico Madrid (3 titles): The Spanish side’s defensive resilience has powered them to three triumphs.

 

Other Notable Champions

Additionally, other football clubs have gotten their names inscribed on this trophy:

  • Borussia Mönchengladbach (2 titles)
  • Tottenham Hotspur (2 titles)
  • Feyenoord (2 titles)
  • Real Madrid (2 titles)
  • Parma: (2 titles)
  • Porto: (2 titles)
  • Chelsea: (2 titles)
  • Eintracht Frankfurt: (2 titles
  • Anderlecht, Ajax, Manchester United, PSV, Ipswich Town, Bayer Leverkusen, Naples, Bayern Munich, Schalke 04, Galatasaray, Valencia, CSKA Moscow, Zenit St. Petersburg, Shakhtar, and Villarreal. (1 title)

 

The Europa League: A Stepping Stone to Glory

Europa League offers clubs an opportunity to showcase themselves as well as competing for European glory. It has until now acted as a ladder for young newcomers and another shot at established ones wishing to add another prestigious trophy into their cabinet.

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Football

Unveiling Africa’s Football Giants: CAF Releases Top Team Rankings (2023/2024)

Unveiling Africa's Football Giants: CAF Releases Top Team Rankings (2023/2024)

CAF Top African Football Teams | GSB

The Confederation of African Football’s (CAF) most recent club rankings show some of the best football leagues in Africa. These rankings give an interesting perspective on African football for the past five years through CAF Champions League and CAF Confederation Cup competitions.

 

Dominant Forces: North Africa Reigns Supreme

Atop is Al Ahly, Egypt having 11 titles to its name in the CAF Champions League. Wydad Casablanca (Morocco) and Espérance de Tunis (Tunisia) follow very closely which shows how well built up is regional football.

 

CAF Club Rankings (as of April 29, 2024):

  1. Al Ahly SC (Egypt): 1,630.16 points (+83.00)
  2. Wydad Casablanca (Morocco): 995.31 points
  3. Espérance de Tunis (Tunisia): 897.69 points (+83.00)
  4. Mamelodi Sundowns (South Africa): 890.38 points (+29.00)
  5. Zamalek SC (Egypt): 791.13 points (+42.00)
  6. Raja Casablanca (Morocco): 656.29 points
  7. Pyramids FC (Egypt): 621.42 points
  8. CR Belouizdad (Algeria): 619.86 points
  9. RS Berkane (Morocco): 564.23 points (+54.00)
  10. Simba SC (Tanzania): 536.92 points
  11. Petroleos de Luanda (Angola): 528.60 points
  12. TP Mazembe (DR Congo): 521.28 points (+41.00)
  13. Young Africans SC (Tanzania): 477.31 points (+4.00)
  14. Al Hilal Club (Sudan): 473.81 points
  15. AS FAR Rabat (Morocco): 413.92 points
  16. Etoile Sportive du Sahel (Tunisia): 413.06 points
  17. Orlando Pirates FC (South Africa): 393.08 points
  18. ASEC Mimosas (Ivory Coast): 380.80 points (+4.00)
  19. USM Alger (Algeria): 376.70 points (+21.00)
  20. JS Kabylie (Algeria): 361.07 points

 

South Africa’s Rise: A Force to Be Reckoned With

Mamelodi Sundowns’ impressive fourth finish shows South Africa is gradually making its presence felt on the continent. In addition, Orlando Pirates stand at 17th place emphasizes their consistency over recent times. This upsurge suggests a potential shift in power dynamics within African football.

 

Beyond the Top Tiers: Notable Performances

The rankings also celebrate the rise of East and Central African clubs. Tanzania’s Simba SC and Young Africans SC, alongside Angola’s Petroleos de Luanda and DR Congo’s TP Mazembe, showcase the continent’s expanding pool of talent.

 

Looking Ahead: A Dynamic Footballing Landscape

The season for 2024 promises to be even more thrilling. The rankings only offer current powerhouses but also hints at other rising clubs that may compete with these incumbents. As events unfold in this season so does the race for continental glory intensify thus changing African soccer map completely.

 

Conclusion: Celebrating African Football Excellence

The vitality and expertise inherent in African soccer can be seen from such ratings of CAF clubs. From greats like Al Ahly to newcomers like RS Berkane (No10), these outfits appeal worldwide across all borders when it comes to talent and emotions they display. As African football continues to evolve, the upcoming seasons promise even more captivating stories and unexpected triumphs.

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Football

EKITANGAZA KYA WEEKEND ONLINE FREE TIPS AND PREDICTIONS (17th May)

Predictions

PREMIER LEAGUE FINAL WEEKEND
WHO WINS THE LEAGUE?
EKITANGAZA KYA WEEKEND ONLINE FREE TIPS AND PREDICTIONS 17TH, 18TH AND 19TH MAY 2024

1. Fiorentina Vs Napoli – 1X (Friday)

Fiorentina are currently 8th placed as they host 9th placed Napoli at Stadio Artemio Franchi. Fiorentina are a few games away from qualifying for Europa conference and I do not see them losing this game to a Napoli side that have not won any league games from all their last 5 fixtures.

2. Palermo Vs Sampdoria – Yes (Friday)

It is the Italian Serie B quarter finals playoff as we get close to determine who will be returning to Italian Serie A next season. I anticipate an end to end game as both sides will be fighting for a win in this fixture. 3/5 of their last H2H have seen both teams score.

3. Bayer Leverkusen Vs Augsburg – 1&O1.5 (Saturday)

Bayer Leverkusen already won the league but still being unbeaten, they will try to finish the league unbeaten. Augsburg have lost all their last 4 league fixtures and I do not see them stopping high flying Bayer Leverkusen.

4. Dortmund Vs Darmstadt – O2.5

After qualifying for Champions league, Dortmund will try to use this game as the last warm up as they gear up for the UCL final against Real Madrid on 1st June. Darmstadt are already relegated and I see the hosts using them as a UCL strategy and warm up game. I see goals flowing into this game. O2.5 ejja kukwatayo

5. Esperance Vs Al Ahly – No GG (Saturday)

It is the CAF Champions league final 1st leg as Esperance host African giants Al Ahly at stade Olympique Hammadi Agrebi. Of course Al Ahly have a better pedigree when you compare the two sides but being a final, I expect Esperance to be a bit reserved which will reduce chances of both sides scoring. 5/5 of their last H2H meetings have not seen both teams score. 7/10 of their last H2H meetings have also not seen both sides scoring.

6. Arsenal Vs Everton – 1 (Sunday)

After Man City won their game in hand against Tottenham in mid-week, Arsenal dropped to 2nd spot with 2 points behind Man City. The Gunners will push for a win in this fixture as they wait for the results of Man City against West Ham. Arsenal will win this game at home.

7. Man City Vs West Ham – 1&O2.5 (Sunday)

Man City will go for mob goals in this fixture with a comfortable win as they look forward to seal their 4th Premier league title in a row. I anticipate to see goals flocking in as West Ham will also try to make news headlines by blocking City’s chances of winning the league for the 4th time in a row.

8. Luton Vs Fulham – O2.5 (Sunday)

Luton are the 3rd club on the verge of relegation as they sit 3 points behind 17th placed Nottingham. I see Luton trying to win this game with many goals to secure themselves even if it is mathematically hard. Luton also easily concedes, I see Fulham scoring in this fixture and try to win to end their league in style. Tubawe amagoolo bajja kugeteeba.

9. AS Roma Vs Genoa – 1 (Sunday)

AS Roma are currently 6th placed with 3 points behind 5th placed Atalanta. Italy will take 5 teams to next season’s Champions league following the new tournament structure. I see Roma pushing for a win against Genoa to increase their chances of qualification if at all Atalanta fumbles in some of their remaining 3 fixtures. Roma have not been in good form but I see them pushing for a win in this fixture though with a small margin.

10. Panathinaikos Vs Olympiacos – O1.5 (Sunday)

At Apostolos Nickolaidis stadium in Athens, 4th placed Panathinaikos host 3rd placed Olympiacos as the race to the Greek top tier triumph continues. 2 points separate the two sides as the away side currently holds the Europa conference spot. I anticipate the hosts to try win this game to secure their return to Europe next season but the away side will also be resilient. Expect a very good end to end game with a minimum of 2 goals. 4/5 of their last H2H meetings saw 2+ goals.

Good Luck – Remember to Cash Out anytime, any day!

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Football

Olympic Football | Paris 2024: Everything You Need To Know

Paris 2024 Olympic Football: Everything You Need To Know

Paris 2024 Olympic Football | GSB

Paris 2024 Olympic Football is just around the corner! In Olympia, Greece, the torch-lighting ceremony marked the official beginning of the countdown to this major event in sport. This summer, after being postponed for three years from Tokyo 2020 Olympics, athletes will gather in France. The opening ceremony will take place on July 26th, while its closure is on August 11th.

 

Olympic Football: A Favorite among Supporters

Only two exceptions have occurred throughout history when it comes to football being one of the most sought-after sports at the Olympics (Athens 1896 and Los Angeles 1932). Brazil is expected to be a strong medal contender again, as they have won gold twice consecutively and Canada holds their last title in women’s category.


Your Guide to Olympic Football: Dates, Stadiums, Teams & More!

Dates and Stadiums:

The Olympic Football tournaments begin on July 24th and conclude with finals on August 10th. Seven magnificent stadiums across various French cities will host the matches:

  • Parc des Princes in Paris (Final venue)
  • Stade Geoffroy-Guichard in Saint-Etienne
  • Stade de la Beaujoire in Nice
  • Stade de Bordeaux in Bordeaux
  • Stade de Lyon in Lyon
  • Marseille Velodrome

 

Qualified Teams, Tournament Format & Groups:

Several teams have already secured their spot in Paris, including France, Spain, and New Zealand. The groups have also been drawn, creating exciting matchups. Here’s a breakdown:

  • Men’s Qualified Teams (10 out of 16): France, United States, Dominican Republic, Israel, Spain, Ukraine, Egypt, Mali, Morocco, New Zealand
  • Remaining Qualifiers: Three teams from Asia Cup U23 competition through Asian Football Confederation (AFC). One team from a play-off between AFC and CAF. Two teams from top ranks of South American pre-Olympic tournament.

This format resembles that of a standard club soccer tournament; four groups of four teams each. The best two teams from each group move forward into knockout stages, which include quarterfinals, semifinals, third-place playoff and grand finale.

Here’s a glimpse at the already drawn groups:

  • Group A: France, United States, AFC-CAF Play-off Winner, New Zealand
  • Group B: Argentina, Morocco, AFC Team 3, Ukraine
  • Group C: AFC Team 2, Spain, Egypt, Dominican Republic
  • Group D: AFC Team 1, Paraguay, Mali, Israel

 

Potential Stars and Surprises:

Fans are eagerly waiting for rosters announcements for Paris’ Olympic Games (Paris 2024). All squads will comprise of eighteen players; minimum fifteen should be born after January 1st, 2001. Nevertheless there’s an exception coaches can integrate upto three older players each. This has sparked speculation and dreams of seeing legendary players like Lionel Messi or France’s idol Kylian Mbappé grace the Olympic stage.

Another player generating buzz for the French attack is Karim Benzema. Currently playing for Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia, Benzema has a less demanding schedule compared to European-based players.


Stay Tuned for More Olympic Football Updates!

An unforgettable sight awaits us at Paris’ final: a true spectacle. With exceptional talents, thrilling contests and iconic venues this is an event every lover of football cannot afford to miss out on. Keep watching out for teams’ choice and players’ involvement!


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Football

Unveiling the Kings: CAF Reveals Top 10 African Football Leagues

Unveiling the Kings: CAF Reveals Top 10 African Football Leagues

Top 10 CAF Leagues | GSB

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has just revealed the continent’s elite leagues! While the 2023/2024 interclub competitions heat up, this ranking sheds light on the championships consistently producing powerhouse teams.

 

North Africa Reigns Supreme

As anticipated, North African nations claim the top spots. Egypt clinches the number one position thanks to its clubs’ dominant performances on the continental stage in recent seasons.

Morocco follows closely, boasting an impressive four continental titles – a combination of Champions League and Confederation Cup wins – over the past four years.

Algeria takes the bronze medal position, proudly celebrating USM Alger’s historic CAF Super Cup victory last season.

 

A Southern Surge

A major surprise emerges with South Africa’s meteoric rise to fourth place. This marks the first sub-Saharan African league to crack the top circle, just edging out Tunisia for the coveted position.

 

Notable Absentees

Despite recent continental success stories, established powerhouses like Mali, Guinea, Cameroon, and Senegal are conspicuously absent from the CAF’s Top 10.

 

The CAF Top 10: A League of Champions

See below the official CAF ranking of Africa’s best football leagues, based on club results from the past five seasons of the African Champions League and CAF Cup:

  1. Egypt (Premier League): 180 pts
  2. Morocco (Botola): 172.5 points
  3. Algeria (Ligue 1): 134 pts
  4. South Africa (PSL): 114 pts
  5. Tunisia (League 1): 101 pts
  6. Tanzania (Ligi Kuu): 56.5 pts
  7. RD Congo (Linafoot): 54 pts
  8. Angola (Girabola): 41.5 pts
  9. Sudan (PL): 39 pts
  10. Côte d’Ivoire (Ligue 1): 29 pts

The Final Whistle

The CAF rankings paint a fascinating picture of African football’s landscape. While North Africa holds strong, South Africa’s rise signals, a potential shift in power. Will established giants return to the top? Who will be the next surprise contender?

Want to learn more about African football’s rising stars and established giants? Stay tuned for further analysis and insights!

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Football

EKITANGAZA KYA WEEKEND TIPS AND PREDICTIONS (10th May 2024)

Predictions

EKITANGAZA KYA WEEKEND TIPS AND PREDICTIONS (10th May 2024)

1. Alaves Vs Girona – Yes&O1.5 (Friday)

Alaves are currently 11th placed, Girona occupy the 2nd spot on the log and have already qualified for Champions League football. Both sides have won their last 3 league fixtures and basing on that, I see each side at least scoring a goal today to give us a minimum of 2 goals in this fixture.

2. Frosinone Vs Inter Milan – 1X (Friday)

Frosinone are currently 16th placed with just 2 points above relegation as they host league winners Inter Milan at Stadio Benito Stirpe in Frosinone. I see the hosts putting up a very strong resistance to try avoid losing the 3 points as a way of increasing their chances of surviving in the Italian top tier. I do not think Inter Milan will put a lot of pressure on the hosts since they already accomplished their target this season. Tajja kukafilako akasajja tukawe double chance yewaka.

3. Fulham Vs Man City – 2&O2.5 (Saturday)

In our Supa Saturday this week, at Craven Cottage Fulham host Title contenders Man City. Can Fulham stop them? I do not think so. Man City cannot bare to lose any points now against a club they better with a pedigree. Away win and over is the topic in this game.

4. Nottingham Vs Chelsea – 2 (Saturday)

Chelsea are still chasing for Europa conference football next season and if they win all their remaining 3 matches, this may yield positively. Chelsea are just 2 points behind Newcastle and incase of any fumbling by the Magpies, the Blues will be into European football next season. I anticipate a Chelsea win with Over 1.5 goals in the entire game.

5. Mainz Vs Dortmund – 1X (Saturday)

Mainz are fighting relegation as they sit 16thon the log. They have not lost a game in their last 5 league fixtures. Dortmund qualified for UCL final in mid-week and have already qualified for Champions league next season so I do not see them pushing harder in this fixture as a way of avoiding injuries. They will rest crucial players.

6. Napoli Vs Bologna – Yes (Saturday)

With 3 games to go, Napoli’s hopes of qualifying for Champions League next season reduced by 99% as they are short by 9 points to fit in the 5th spot. However, a push for a win will keep their hopes of Europa league qualification alive. A Win for Bologna will increase their chances of UCL qualification as they currently sit 4th on the log. I see both sides scoring at least a goal in this fixture.

7. Newcastle Vs Brighton – 1 (Saturday)

Newcastle host Brighton at St. James’ Park as their push for qualifying for European football next season continues. They currently occupy 6th spot with 4 points behind Tottenham who have lost all their last 4 games. I see Newcastle pushing for a win to increase their chances of qualification for Europa league. Newcastle ali waka tumuwe ajja kutegula.

8. Man United Vs Arsenal – 2 (Sunday)

Arsenal are currently leading the league as they continue to push for the title. Man United are really in poor form and I do not expect them to pause a lot of resistance. Let us go all the way for Arsenal Yabantu.

9. Bochum Vs Bayer Leverkusen – 2&O1.5 (Sunday)

Bayer Leverkusen are still the only unbeaten club in the European top 5 leagues and I see them pushing this target to end the season unbeaten in the Bundesliga after winning their 1st ever league title. Bayer Leverkusen will win with a minimum of 2 goals in the entire game.

10. Real Betis Vs Almeria -1 (Sunday)

Real Betis are currently 7th placed with just 2 points out of Europa League spots. A win will give Betis more chances of qualifying if at all Real Sociedad in 6th spot fumbles and loses against Barcelona in their next fixture. Almeria are already relegated, I do not see them posing any strong resistance away from home.

~GOOD LUCK~

Categories
Football

Unbreakable Champions: Unveiling the Longest Unbeaten Streaks in European Football

Unbreakable Champions: Unveiling the Longest Unbeaten Streaks in European Football

Europe's Unbeaten Football Teams | GSB

Unbreakable Champions: Unveiling the Longest Unbeaten Streaks in European Football

In the world of football, victory reigns supreme. However, many coaches believe the true testament to greatness lies in avoiding defeat. Winning and not losing, while seemingly similar, expose contrasting philosophies under the microscope. Throughout history, especially recent years, numerous clubs have embarked on remarkable unbeaten runs. Let’s delve into Europe’s current undefeated teams and revisit the most formidable unbeaten records etched in recent seasons.

Legendary Runs: Europe’s Unbeatable Teams

As of April, only one European team remains undefeated: Bayer Leverkusen. The German powerhouse, nicknamed “Bayer Neverlusen” (German for “Never Lose Bayer”), has defied defeat across the Bundesliga, German Cup, and Europa League. Xabi Alonso’s squad continues to rewrite history, boasting a phenomenal 45-game unbeaten streak.

The Best Unbeaten Streaks in European Football: Who Holds the Record?

The past two decades have witnessed several European teams weave extraordinary unbeaten spells. Three clubs (one achieving it thrice) have reached the staggering feat of 50 games unbeaten: FC Porto, Celtic FC, and Bayern Munich.

The Undisputed Kings: FC Porto’s Record-Breaking Run

FC Porto have the longest unbeaten record in Europe, having gone without defeat in 58 consecutive matches from October 2020 to April 2022.  This dominance unfolded primarily within the Portuguese Championship. Interestingly, Porto wasn’t new to such heroics, having enjoyed unbeaten stretches between 2010 and 2013.

Top 5 Unbeaten Teams in European Football

  1. FC Porto: 58 consecutive matches (October 2020 – April 2022)
  2. Celtic FC: 56 consecutive matches (May 2016 – December 2017)
  3. FC Porto: 55 consecutive matches (March 2010 – January 2012)
  4. Bayern Munich: 53 consecutive matches (November 2012 – March 2014)
  5. FC Porto: 53 consecutive matches (February 2012 – November 2013)

The Invincible Stripes: Italy’s Unbeaten Record Holder

Despite falling short of a continental best, Italy can boast an invincible Serie A champion in Antonio Conte’s Juventus. In fact, the Bianconeri went without defeat for 49 games from May 2011 to October 2012 — until they were beaten by Andrea Stramaccioni’s Inter Milan — a run that may never be matched in a league as brutally demanding as Italy’s. So dominant were Juve over this spell that they accumulated an almost unbelievable 102 points the following campaign.

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Football

2025 FIFA Club World Cup: Unequal Prize Money Sparks Outrage for African Teams

2025 FIFA Club World Cup: Unequal Prize Money Sparks Outrage for African Teams

Club World Cup Controversy | GSB

The FIFA Club World Cup will take place in the United States next year, with the best club teams from around the world competing. However, there is a dark shadow hanging over this excitement for representatives of Africa who have to face the fact that they will be awarded less prize money than their European or South American counterparts.

 

Unequal Prize Money: A Slap in the Face to African Football

This Disparity in Prize Money is a slap in the face to African football. According to Al Ahly TV, FIFA plans to distribute bonuses based on factors like continent and budget, essentially shortchanging African clubs. This lack of respect for African football is another disappointing move by FIFA, highlighting a persistent bias.

The limited financial reward creates a demotivating environment for African teams. While European and South American giants compete for substantial prizes, African clubs are left fighting for scraps. This disparity discourages investment and weakens the overall competitiveness of African football on the global stage.

 

Road to the USA: How African Teams Can Qualify for the 2025 Club World Cup

Egypt’s Al-Ahly and Morocco’s Wydad Casablanca have already clinched two places. CAF Champions League semi-finals will be contested by Espérance de Tunis, Mamelodi Sundowns and TP Mazembe for the remaining two slots.

The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup: A Tournament Reimagined

FIFA have announced a major reform, which has seen the creation of a new event, called Club World Cup in 2025. This tournament will be held every four years just like its national team counterpart – the World Cup – and is expected to become one of highlights in football calendar. The first ever edition will take place in United States thereby bringing new perspectives and anticipations within football community.

The Tournament Dynamics and Team Participation

As for its structure, it closely follows that of traditional world cups where there are eight groups comprising four teams each. Winners from each group then proceed to knockout stage where they shall vie until only one remaining club becomes announced as global champions.

The participating teams will total 32, distributed as follows:

  • Europe: 12 teams
  • South America: 6 teams
  • Asia: 4 teams
  • Africa: 4 teams
  • Central and North America: 4 teams
  • Oceania: 1 team
  • Host Nation: 1 team