Football

FIFA's Saudi Aramco Sponsorship Draws Ire of Over 100 Female FootballersOver 100 professional female footballers from 24 countries have vehemently condemned FIFA's sponsorship deal with Saudi Aramco, the world's largest state-owned oil and gas company. The partnership, signed in April 2023, will run until 2027 and encompass major events like the FIFA World Cup 2026 and FIFA Women's World Cup 2027.In a strongly worded letter, the players expressed their dismay and disappointment over FIFA's decision. They highlighted Saudi Arabia's abysmal human rights record, particularly regarding gender equality and freedom of expression. The letter emphasized that Saudi Aramco, as the primary financial lifeline of the Saudi regime, is complicit in these violations.The players urged FIFA to reconsider the partnership and seek alternative sponsors whose values align with gender equality, human rights, and environmental sustainability. They also proposed the establishment of a review committee with player representation to evaluate the ethical implications of future sponsorship deals.The letter pointed out that FIFA's Council, which made the decision to partner with Saudi Aramco, is predominantly male (8 out of 37 members are women). The players argued that these decisions are made by individuals who are not directly affected by the Saudi regime's oppressive policies.The players also raised concerns about Saudi Arabia's alleged use of sports sponsorship to whitewash its human rights abuses. They cited the examples of Russia 2018 and Qatar 2022, where FIFA's partnerships with authoritarian regimes raised ethical questions.Becky Sauerbrunn, former captain of the US National Women's Team, stated, "The safety of women, the rights of women, LGBTQ rights, and the health of the planet need to take a much bigger priority over FIFA making more money."Sofie Junge Pedersen, a Danish international and one of the architects of the letter, emphasized, "Values are not just words to write on a page - you need to live them and stand by them. FIFA needs to stand by its set of values on human rights and sustainability, which they are not doing with this sponsorship."The players' letter has garnered widespread support from human rights organizations and activists. It remains to be seen whether FIFA will respond to the players' demands and reconsider its partnership with Saudi Aramco.

Inter Milan maintained their pursuit of Serie A leaders Napoli with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Roma at the Stadio Olimpico. Lautaro Martinez's 60th-minute strike proved decisive, as Inter closed the gap to two points behind Napoli, who also secured a 1-0 win at Empoli.Inter's victory was built on a solid defensive performance, with goalkeeper Andre Onana making several crucial saves. Roma, on the other hand, struggled to create clear-cut chances, despite dominating possession for large periods of the match.The match was played in a strange atmosphere, with Roma's hardcore fans protesting outside the ground for the first 15 minutes. The fans are unhappy with the club's direction under American owner Dan Friedkin and the sacking of club legend Daniele De Rossi.Despite the off-field distractions, Inter showed great determination and resilience to secure the victory. Simone Inzaghi's side will now turn their attention to the Champions League, where they face Young Boys on Wednesday.Napoli continued their impressive start to the season with a 1-0 win at Empoli. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia scored the only goal from the penalty spot in the 63rd minute. Napoli have now won four consecutive matches in all competitions and are looking like serious title contenders.Fiorentina moved up to fifth place with a thumping 6-0 victory over 10-man Lecce. Danilo Cataldi and Andrea Colpani both scored braces, while Lucas Beltran and Fabiano Parisi also got on the scoresheet. Lecce's Antonino Gallo was sent off in the 35th minute for a foul on Dodo.Atalanta eased to a 2-0 win at bottom side Venezia, thanks to goals from Mario Pasalic and Mateo Retegui. Retegui, who has scored eight goals in Serie A this season, is currently the league's leading scorer.

Jude Bellingham's second season at Real Madrid has been a tale of contrasts. After a stellar debut campaign marked by goals and glory, the England international has faced challenges in his sophomore year.Bellingham's first season in Madrid was a whirlwind. Thrust into the attack after Karim Benzema's departure, he scored 10 goals in his first 10 games. His performances earned him the admiration of fans and critics alike.However, this season has been different. Bellingham has been tasked with more defensive responsibility, a role that has limited his attacking output. He has yet to score in nine games across all competitions.Bellingham's frustration was evident during Madrid's recent win over Celta Vigo. He appeared furious with Vinicius Junior for not passing him the ball when he was well-placed to score.Manager Carlo Ancelotti defended Bellingham, saying that his reaction showed "balls and character." However, he acknowledged that Bellingham's role has changed and that he should be appreciated for his contributions to the team.Bellingham's struggles have coincided with Madrid's inconsistent form. The team has struggled to find the right balance in midfield, with Bellingham, Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior, and Rodrygo Goes all vying for attacking roles.Despite his challenges, Bellingham remains a key player for Madrid. His work rate, passing ability, and defensive awareness make him a valuable asset to the team.As Madrid prepares for crucial matches against Borussia Dortmund and Barcelona, Bellingham will be determined to make a significant contribution. Whether he scores or not, his presence on the pitch will be vital for the team's success.

Barcelona's relentless attacking prowess was on full display as they cruised to a resounding 5-1 victory over Sevilla at Camp Nou on Sunday. The triumph extends their lead at the summit of La Liga to three points ahead of arch-rivals Real Madrid, setting the stage for an enthralling Clasico next weekend.Robert Lewandowski, the Polish marksman, continued his prolific form, netting twice to take his tally to 12 goals in just 10 La Liga appearances. The veteran striker's goals were complemented by a brace from Pablo Torre, who came off the bench to add to Sevilla's misery. Pedri Gonzalez also got on the scoresheet with a well-taken effort from the edge of the box.Barcelona's dominance was evident from the outset, with Dani Olmo, Fermin Lopez, and Gavi all returning from injury to bolster their bench. Ansu Fati made his first start of the season, while Raphinha slotted into a central attacking midfield role.The Catalans took the lead from the penalty spot after Raphinha was brought down in the box. Lewandowski coolly converted the spot-kick, sending Sevilla goalkeeper Orjan Nyland the wrong way. Pedri doubled the advantage shortly after, capitalizing on a clever assist from Lamine Yamal.Lewandowski's second goal came just before the break, as he guided Raphinha's drive into the net with a deft flick. Sevilla's woes were compounded by the loss of winger Chidera Ejuke to injury.Barcelona continued to dominate in the second half, with Yamal producing an audacious shot from distance that Nyland somehow managed to save. Torre made it 4-0 with a deflected effort, before Gavi made his long-awaited return as a substitute, receiving a rapturous reception from the home crowd.Sevilla managed to pull one back through Stanis Idumbo, but Torre sealed the victory with a fortunate free-kick that crept in at the far post. The result leaves Sevilla languishing in 13th place, while Barcelona head into the Clasico with renewed confidence and a three-point cushion at the top of the table.

Atlético Madrid overcame a sluggish start to secure a 3-1 victory over Leganés in La Liga on Sunday, thanks to a brace from Alexander Sorloth.Diego Simeone's side struggled to find their rhythm against the relegation-threatened visitors, who took a shock lead through Yvan Neyou's thunderous strike. However, Sorloth restored parity with a clinical finish in the 69th minute, setting the stage for a dramatic second half.Antoine Griezmann put Atlético ahead with a close-range effort, assisted by Giuliano Simeone, who had replaced Rodrigo Riquelme in the second half. Griezmann's goal was initially ruled out for offside but was later awarded after a VAR review.Despite Griezmann's subsequent red card for a high tackle, Atlético held on to their lead. Sorloth sealed the victory in stoppage time with a poacher's finish, securing three crucial points for the Rojiblancos.The win lifted Atlético to third place in the La Liga standings, four points behind leaders Barcelona. It also ended a run of five matches without a victory in all competitions for Simeone's team.

Liverpool's title credentials received a significant boost as they overcame a resilient Chelsea 2-1 at Anfield, reclaiming the Premier League summit. Mohamed Salah's penalty and Curtis Jones' decisive strike propelled the Reds to their 10th victory in 11 games under manager Arne Slot.Chelsea's Nicolas Jackson briefly equalized in the second half, but the Blues succumbed to their first league defeat since the season opener against Manchester City. Liverpool's triumph places them one point ahead of City and four clear of Arsenal, their next opponents at the Emirates.Chelsea, despite the setback, displayed encouraging signs in a performance that tested Liverpool's limits. The Blues remain six points adrift of the top in sixth place.Slot's only defeat at Liverpool came against Nottingham Forest after the September international break. In response, the Dutchman benched South American internationals Alexis Mac Allister, Luis Diaz, and Darwin Nunez due to their recent transatlantic exertions.Jones' inclusion in the starting lineup proved inspired, as the England international earned Liverpool's penalty and scored the winning goal. Chelsea escaped a red card in the opening minutes when Tosin Adarabioyo fouled Diogo Jota, an incident similar to William Saliba's dismissal for Arsenal against Bournemouth.Despite Chelsea's early possession dominance, Liverpool's pace on the break posed a constant threat. Salah's penalty gave the Reds the lead after Jones was brought down by Levi Colwill. Cody Gakpo's goal was ruled out for offside, while Jackson struck the woodwork for Chelsea.Chelsea received a reprieve before halftime when VAR overturned a penalty decision against Jones, who was adjudged to have been touched by Robert Sanchez. However, the Blues equalized within three minutes of the restart through Jackson, who was initially ruled offside but was shown to be onside by Ibrahima Konate.Liverpool regained the lead three minutes later when Jones converted Salah's cross. Chelsea pressed for an equalizer but struggled to create clear chances until stoppage time. Renato Vega and Christopher Nkunku missed opportunities to level the score.

Manchester City's relentless pursuit of a fifth consecutive Premier League title reached new heights on Sunday as they snatched a dramatic 2-1 victory at Wolves. The champions' last-gasp goal, courtesy of John Stones, sparked controversy but ultimately sent them to the summit of the league standings.Wolves stunned City early on when Jorgen Strand Larsen capitalized on a defensive lapse to give the hosts a surprise lead. However, City's resilience shone through as Josko Gvardiol equalized with a stunning curler before halftime.As the match entered its dying moments, Stones emerged as the unlikely hero. His headed goal from a corner was initially disallowed for offside, but a VAR review overturned the decision, sending Guardiola and his players into raptures.Wolves protested vehemently, claiming that Bernardo Silva had interfered with goalkeeper Jose Sa's view and obstructed his ability to make a save. However, referee Chris Kavanagh stood by his decision after consulting the pitchside monitor.City's victory extended their unbeaten run in the league to 31 games, a new club record. They are now two points clear of Liverpool, who have a chance to reclaim top spot later on Sunday.Guardiola's men have set a blistering pace this season, winning six of their eight league matches. Their only blemish came in a 1-0 defeat to Liverpool in the Community Shield.Despite the absence of Erling Haaland's usual goalscoring exploits, City's attacking prowess was evident throughout the match. They created numerous chances but were often thwarted by Wolves' resolute defense.In the end, it was Stones' late intervention that secured the three points for City. The defender's goal was a testament to the champions' never-say-die attitude and their ability to grind out results even when not at their best.

Bayer Leverkusen Striker Victor Boniface Involved in Car AccidentBayer Leverkusen and Nigeria striker Victor Boniface was involved in a car accident on Sunday, leaving his vehicle severely damaged. The forward shared footage and photos of the incident on social media, showing his arm dripping with blood.According to German tabloid Bild, Boniface is "doing well considering the circumstances and is only slightly injured." The club has yet to comment publicly on the news.Boniface, 23, joined Leverkusen last season and played a pivotal role in their historic Bundesliga and cup double. This season, he has scored seven goals in 10 games across all competitions.On Saturday, Boniface missed a penalty but scored the winning goal in Leverkusen's 2-1 home victory over Eintracht Frankfurt. The club is scheduled to face French side Brest in the Champions League on Wednesday.Boniface expressed gratitude on social media, writing "god is the greatest" and "god says my time hasn't come."The accident has raised concerns about Boniface's availability for upcoming matches. Leverkusen will be hoping that their star striker recovers quickly and can continue his impressive form.

Napoli's relentless pursuit of the Serie A title continued on Sunday with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Empoli, a team that has historically posed challenges for the Neapolitans. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, the Georgian winger who has emerged as a key figure for Napoli, converted a penalty in the 63rd minute to secure the three points.The victory extends Napoli's winning streak to four matches in all competitions and solidifies their position at the top of the Serie A standings. With three points separating them from second-placed Juventus, Napoli is well-positioned to maintain their lead for at least another week.Despite Empoli's reputation as a bogey team for Napoli, the hosts put up a valiant effort and were arguably the better side for much of the match. Napoli's only shot on target came from Kvaratskhelia's penalty, highlighting the defensive resilience of Empoli.Napoli manager Antonio Conte acknowledged the challenges posed by Empoli and emphasized the importance of celebrating every victory. He stressed the need for consistency and the long-term vision of building a team that can sustain success beyond a single season.Kvaratskhelia's winning goal has further cemented his status as a vital cog in Conte's plans. However, the Georgian's contract situation remains unresolved, with reports suggesting that he is seeking a significant salary increase. Napoli is reportedly reluctant to meet his demands, potentially casting a shadow over the club's future prospects.Despite the uncertainty surrounding Kvaratskhelia's contract, Napoli's focus remains on the present. The absence of European football has allowed them to concentrate solely on domestic competitions, giving them an advantage over rivals who are juggling multiple fixtures.As the Serie A title race intensifies, Napoli will face further tests of their mettle. However, their impressive form and the leadership of Conte suggest that they are well-equipped to challenge for the Scudetto and establish themselves as a force to be reckoned with in Italian football.