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Excitement is building as preparations intensify for the upcoming African Games, scheduled to unfold from March 8–23, 2024, in Ghana.
At the forefront of this anticipation is the confirmed participation of 49 member states of the African Union, signaling a collective commitment to showcasing athletic prowess and fostering continental unity through sports. While the majority of nations have affirmed their presence, a sense of suspense lingers as five countries – Cape Verde, Senegal, Sao Tome and Principe, Sudan, and South Sudan – are yet to finalize their attendance, adding intrigue to the event’s unfolding narrative.
Among the confirmed participants are traditional powerhouses such as Algeria, Egypt, Libya, Mauritania, Morocco, Tunisia, alongside a diverse array of nations poised to contribute to the vibrant tapestry of athletic talent on display.
To ensure seamless organization and coordination, participating nations must adhere to the submission deadline of February 25, 2024, at 23:59 (GMT), by furnishing comprehensive athlete and team data. This meticulous approach aims to facilitate effective planning and execution of the multi-faceted event, encompassing 23 competitive sporting disciplines.
Notably, the African Games will serve as a pivotal pathway for athletes vying to qualify for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, with eight sports disciplines designated as Olympic qualifiers, underscoring the event’s significance on the global stage.
In addition to the quest for Olympic qualification, the African Games will prominently feature 16 other sports, ranging from basketball (3×3) to football, exemplifying the diverse spectrum of athletic pursuits embraced across the continent.
Furthermore, the inclusion of five demonstration sports, including e-sports, reflects a commitment to innovation and adaptation to emerging trends in the realm of sports. With over 3,500 elite athletes expected to converge in Ghana, the event promises to be a dynamic celebration of sportsmanship, talent, and continental camaraderie, uniting nations under the common banner of athletic excellence.
As the countdown to the African Games continues, anticipation mounts for an event that transcends mere competition, embodying the spirit of unity, diversity, and excellence inherent in the African sporting landscape. Through the collective efforts of participating nations and the vibrant display of athletic prowess, the African Games are poised to leave an indelible mark on the continent’s sporting legacy, inspiring generations to come and fostering a renewed sense of pride and solidarity across borders.
Accra Hearts of Oak has appointed new head coach as well as a managing director for the club. This was announced on Friday, 9th February, 2024.
According to the club’s statement, Coach Aboubakar Ouattara has signed a two-and-a-half-year contract with Hearts of Oak and is set to begin training with the players next week after the team’s friendly game against Techiman Eleven Wonders over the weekend.
Below is a summary of the club’s statement.
Accra Hearts of Oak Sporting Club Limited is proud to announce the immediate appointment of Mr. Delali Anku-Adiamah as the club’s Managing Director. With a distinguished academic background, including a PhD in Computational Systems Biology from the University of Manchester UK, and a BSc in Computer Science with Business Management from the University of Birmingham, UK, Mr. Anku-Adiamah brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the role.
His professional journey includes notable positions at esteemed organizations such as Manchester United, Accenture, Markit, and FactSet. With his expertise and leadership, we believe Mr. Anku-Adiamah will guide the club towards pre-eminence. We call upon all Phobians to extend their utmost support to him during his tenure.
Accra Hearts of Oak is thrilled to introduce Aboubakar Ouattara as the club’s new substantive head coach. Coach Ouattara, with his extensive experience and proven track record, has signed a two-and-a-half-year contract with the Club, effective immediately. He is set to commence training next week, following the team’s return from an upcoming friendly game against Techiman Eleven Wonders.
Coach Ouattara’s accomplishments include serving as the Technical Adviser for Moroccan giants, WAC, where he contributed to winning the CAF Champions League twice. Additionally, his tenure as Technical Director at TP Mazembe saw significant success, including winning the CAF Champions League and domestic league titles. With his CAF License ‘A’ coaching certificate, Coach Ouattara is well-equipped to lead our team to new heights.
In light of logistical considerations, the Board of Accra Hearts of Oak has rescheduled the Annual General Meeting (AGM) originally slated for February. This decision stems from the delayed receipt of audited accounts, necessitating compliance with the statutory minimum 21-day notice requirement for AGMs. The AGM will now take place in March 2024, with the exact date to be communicated in due course.
The board assures all stakeholders that the AGM will conclude within March, with transparency and accountability remaining paramount.
The Golden State Warriors were founded in 1946 as the Philadelphia Warriors, based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. They relocated to San Francisco in 1962 and changed their name to the San Francisco Warriors. In 1971, they changed their name to the Golden State Warriors to represent the entire state of California.
The team has experienced various periods of success throughout its history. One of the most notable eras came in the late 2010s when the Warriors, led by stars such as Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green, won three NBA championships in 2015, 2017, and 2018. During this time, they set multiple records, including the best regular-season record in NBA history with 73 wins in the 2015-2016 season.
The Warriors play their home games at the Chase Center, located in the Mission Bay neighborhood of San Francisco. They have a passionate fan base and are known for their fast-paced, high-scoring style of play, often utilizing three-point shooting to their advantage.
In recent years, the team has undergone roster changes and faced challenges, but they remain a competitive force in the NBA, with a focus on building a roster capable of contending for championships.
2024 NBA TRADE DEADLINE FOR GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS
The Golden State Warriors made a last-minute trade deal, sending Cory Joseph and cash to the Indiana Pacers for a second-round pick, a move that may hold more significance than initially perceived.
While Cory Joseph’s departure may seem minor, it opens up a roster spot for the Warriors, potentially allowing two-way contracted guard Lester Quinones to join the main roster. Quinones has showcased his talent in recent games, averaging impressive stats and demonstrating his value to the team.
Despite Quinones’ potential, the Warriors may explore the buyout market to bolster their playoff hopes with a veteran addition. However, they face limitations due to salary constraints, ruling out high-profile options like Spencer Dinwiddie.
As the Warriors weigh their options, the impact of their trade decisions extends beyond the court, affecting team dynamics and financial considerations.
The 2024 NBA trade deadline has come and gone, leaving fans buzzing about the notable deals and surprising non-deals that defined this year’s edition.
One of the headline stories was the retention of Dejounte Murray by the Atlanta Hawks, despite widespread speculation about his availability. Similarly, the struggling Los Angeles Lakers opted to stay put, declining to make any moves despite their ninth-place standing in the Western Conference.
However, amidst the quiet, significant transactions took place that are bound to shape the remainder of the season. The New York Knicks made waves by acquiring Bojan Bogdanović and Alec Burks from the Detroit Pistons in exchange for Quentin Grimes, bolstering their offensive firepower. The move earned praise from analysts, with The Athletic’s Zach Harper awarding the Knicks an “A” grade for the trade.
Meanwhile, the Philadelphia 76ers addressed their need for shooting by adding Buddy Hield from the Indiana Pacers, while sending Patrick Beverley to the Milwaukee Bucks. This move aims to compensate for the absence of Joel Embiid due to injury.
In a surprising turn, the Oklahoma City Thunder, currently tied for first in the Western Conference, secured forward Gordon Hayward from the Charlotte Hornets, signaling their intent to make a playoff push.
Here is a comprehensive list of all completed trades over the past two days, listed in chronological order:
1. Robin Lopez to the Sacramento Kings with cash going to the Boston Celtics.
2. Jaden Springer to the Celtics.
3. Dalano Banton to the Portland Trail Blazers.
4. Cory Joseph and cash to the Indiana Pacers, with a second-round pick going to the Golden State Warriors.
5. Draft rights to Israel Kamagate to the LA Clippers with cash going to the Denver Nuggets.
6. Doug McDermott to the Pacers, Marcus Morris, a second-round pick, and cash to the San Antonio Spurs.
7. Patrick Beverley to the Bucks, Cam Payne, and a second-round pick to the 76ers.
8. Royce O’Neale and David Roddy to the Phoenix Suns, with three second-round picks and salaries going to the Brooklyn Nets, and Yuta Watanabe to the Memphis Grizzlies.
9. P.J. Washington to the Dallas Mavericks, Grant Williams, Seth Curry, and a first-round pick to the Hornets.
10. Spencer Dinwiddie to the Toronto Raptors, Dennis Schröder and Thaddeus Young to the Nets (Note: Dinwiddie will be waived by the Raptors).
11. Daniel Gafford to the Mavericks, Richaun Holmes, and a future first-rounder to the Washington Wizards.
12. Bojan Bogdanović and Alec Burks to the Knicks, Quentin Grimes, Evan Fournier, Malachi Flynn, and two second-round picks to the Pistons.
13. Danuel House to the Pistons with a second-round pick going to the 76ers (Note: Pistons will waive House).
14. Gordon Hayward to the Thunder, Tre Mann, and Dāvis Bertāns to the Hornets.
15. Kelly Olynyk and Ochai Agbaji to the Raptors, Kira Lewis, Otto Porter, and a 2024 first-rounder to the Utah Jazz.
16. Buddy Hield to the 76ers, Marcus Morris, Furkan Korkmaz, and three second-round picks to the Pacers.
17. Monté Morris to the Minnesota Timberwolves, Shake Milton, Troy Brown, and a second-round pick to the Pistons.
18. Xavier Tillman to the Celtics, with two second-round picks and Lamar Stevens going to the Grizzlies.
19. Simone Fontecchio to the Pistons, with Kevin Knox and more going to the Jazz.
Despite the flurry of activity, the overall sentiment is one of tempered excitement, as none of the trades were particularly headline-grabbing. The impact of certain deals, such as those made by the 76ers and Bucks, remains uncertain pending the return of key players from injury.
One interesting remark came from Mavericks coach Jason Kidd, who, unlike Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau, refrained from discussing his team’s acquisitions. The Mavericks focused on shoring up their defense and adding depth, bringing in Daniel Gafford and P.J. Washington to complement their offensive stars, Luka Dončić and, when healthy, Kyrie Irving. Kidd expressed confidence in his team’s ability to contend, even in an era where defensive prowess seems to be waning, albeit in a lighthearted tone.
Bojan Bogdanovic is probably the most famous athlete to come out of Croatia, except for its football players. However, the 30-year-old did not achieve all of his success in one day.
Imagine your country at war with itself, with even basic essentials being battled over.
Consider having a desire of being a professional basketball player amid such dangerous circumstances. Bojan Bogdanovic is one such visionary who not only envisioned but also realised his goals.
The tall, swift, agile, and beautiful Utah Jazz small forward is considered one of the best Croatian players in NBA history.
In fact, he might even be the best, as evidenced by his recent contract with the Jazz, which made him the highest-paid Croatian athlete in history.
So, bear with me as I will guide you through the career and life of a young kid who grew up in the war-torn country of Bosnia, dreamed of being a professional, and managed to achieve it.
But first, let’s get started with some quick facts that will help my dear readers get warmed up.
Quick Facts
Full Name
Bojan Bogdanovic
Birth Date
18 April 1989
Birth Place
Mostar, SR Bosnia and Herzegovina, Yugoslavia
Nick Name
Not available
Religion
Not available
Nationality
Croatian
Ethnicity
Not available
Education
Not available
Horoscope
Not available
Father’s Name
Mario Bogdanovic
Mother’s Name
Not available
Siblings
Ivana Bogdanovic, Martina Bogdanovic
Age
34 Years Old
Height
6’8″ (2.03 m)
Weight
103 kg (226 lbs)
Shoe Size
Not available
Hair Color
Black
Eye Color
Black
Body Measurement
Not available
Build
Athletic
Married
No
Girlfriend
None
Spouse
None
Position
Small Forward/Shooting Guard
Profession
Basketball Player
Net Worth
$25 million
Clubs
Utah Jazz (Current); Brooklyn Nets, Indiana Pacers (Former)
Bojan’s NBA career started with the Miami Heat. The Miami-based franchise selected Bogdanovic 31st overall in the 2011 NBA Draft.
However, he got traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves on the same day and then again to the New Jersey Nets (now Brooklyn Nets).
Although Bojan had signed with the Nets, he could not play for them until 2014. The contract with his former team Fenerbache in the European League did not allow him to play for another team.
As a result, the Croatian small forward had to wait three years before making his NBA debut for the Nets. Ultimately, the time came during the 2014-15 season as he played in 78 games for the franchise, averaging 9.0 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.5 assists in his debut season.
Some notable highlights of his time with the Nets have to be when he scored a career-high 44 points against the Philadelphia 76ers in a 131-114 win.
Another one has to be his outstanding shooting form, which helped the Nets clinch the No.8 seed in the Eastern Conference during the 2014-15 season.
By the time Bojan reached his final season with the Nets, he had averaged a career-high 14.2 points, 1.6 assists, and 3.6 rebounds.
Throughout the three-season with the Nets, the 30-year-old had made a name for himself as one of the top 3 and D players at that time.
However, Bojan had much higher ambitions than just playing in the league. As a matter of fact, Bogdanovic always wanted to be an NBA Champion since he started playing basketball. As a result, the Croatian decided to move on to greater pastures to realize his dreams.
With mutual consent from both the player and the team, Bojan got traded to the Washington Wizards, who needed an excellent shooter to complement one of the best backcourts at that time, John Wall and Bradley Beal.
Also, Wall and Beal were All-Star players who decided to go to Washington even better.
Bogdanovic playing against his future team, Utah Jazz
Despite the talents that the Wizards had that season, the franchise could only manage to reach the Eastern Conference Semi-final, where they eventually lost to the Boston Celtics.
In the run to the semi-finals, Bojan contributed significantly, coming in as the primary scorer off the bench when Wall and Beal sat out.
As a result, the 30-year-old managed 12.7 points and 3.1 rebounds during his half-season with the Wizards. Even though the Wizards wanted Bojan to stay with the Franchise, he decided not to sign a new deal, citing a lack of playing time as the primary reason.
Consequently, the Croatian entered the free agency market, where the Indiana Pacers offered the small forward $21 million over two years for his services. Subsequently, Bojan signed with the Indiana-based franchise to have the best moments of his career to date.
In his first season with the franchise, the Pacers reached the playoffs by securing the 5th seed in the Eastern Conference.
But that was the only positive for the Indiana-based franchise, as they were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs by a LeBron James-led Cleveland Cavaliers.
Contrarily, there were a lot of positives in the defeat for Bojan. For instance, he managed a playoff career-high 30 points while shooting 7 of 9 3-pointers to help his team win the third game of the series.
He averaged 12.4 points, 1.9 assists, and 3.4 rebounds per game during the series. In fact, it was Bogdanovic’s best postseason at the time.
The next season, Indiana again managed to reach the playoffs by finishing the regular season in the 5th position. The same place that the franchise finished just a season earlier. Consequently, a lot of fans saw it as a bad omen.
Unfortunately, their worst nightmare came true as the team crashed out in the first round of the playoffs against the Boston Celtics.
The Celtics were one of the title contenders that season, boasting players like Kyrie Irving, Jayson Tatum, Al Horford, and Jaylen Brown, to name a few.
Consequently, the overpowered Celtics team bulldozed past the helpless Pacers, sweeping the series 4-0.
Even though Indiana got swept, Bojan’s stock grew even more as he was the best player for the Pacers, managing his best playoff performance. The Croatian averaged an impressive 18.0 points, 2.8 assists, and 5.8 rebounds.
Consequently, teams with cap space with the resources to pay the small forward vied for his signature.
But it was the Utah Jazz that ultimately won the battle as they signed the 30-year-old to a four-year, $73 million deal. As a consequence, Bojan became the highest-paid Croatian athlete of all time.
Bogdanovic celebrates a 3-pointer
Bogdanovic has played in all 60 games for the Utah-based franchise,,, averaging career-highs 20.5 points, 2.1 assists, and 4.2 rebounds at the time of writing.
Due to his impressive performances for the Jazz, the small forward was in contention to be named an All-Star, a feat that no Croatian has managed before.
How tall is Bojan Bogdanovic? Age, Height, Weight
The Croatian stands at 6 feet 8 inches, or 2.03 meters if you measure your height in meters. Excuse me for the pun! To be a basketball player, one needs to be tall and athletic, which Bojan is.
Also, the Jazz small forward weighs 226 pounds or 103 kg. One might feel that it is a bit too much; however, NBA players need to be healthy and muscular, especially backcourt players. So, in my opinion, he has the perfect weight for his height.
At the time of writing, Bojan is 34 years old, but that did not deter the Utah-based franchise from signing the Croatiantoo a four-year, $71 million deal. As per the contract, he will remain with the Jazz until the 2022-23 season.
How much does Bojan Bogdanovic make? Salary & Net Worth
The Croatian-born player is currently worth $25 million, which he accrued mainly through his playing career. Bojan has played for Brooklyn Nets, Washington Wizards, Indiana Pacers, and Utah Jazz. So, his net worth should come as no surprise.
Bojan Bogdanovic | Contract
According to his most recent deal with the Jazz, Bogdanovic has earned $73 million over four years. Consequently, the tall small forward became the highest-paid Croatian athlete of all time.
As per the contract, Bojan is earning $17 million for the 2019-20 season, making him the third-highest-paid player in the Utah Jazz franchise currently.
However, his salary will gradually increase in the coming years. In fact, in the final year of his current contract, Bogdanovic will earn $19.5 million.
Previously, the Croatian was earning a reported $21 million over two years with the Indiana Pacers. As a result, he was the fourth highest-paid player on the Pacers roster.
Over the course of his career, Bojan has earned nearly $49 million. But there is a catch; however, basketball players in the USA have to pay almost 50% of their income on taxes. As a result, the highest-paid Croatian athlete’s net worth is not as much as you expect.
Bojan Bogdanovic | Family & Lifestyle
Bojan Bogdanovic was born to his father, Mario Bogdanovic, who was a professional basketball player in Croatia. But the information about his mother remains unknown. Besides, Bogdanovic has two younger sisters, Martina Bogdanovic and Ivana Bogdanovic.
As of now, the 30-year-old is not in any relationship. As a matter of fact, Bojan’s personal life is shrouded in mystery, y as he does not like to talk about his personal life publicly.
But according to reports, Bogdanovic was in a relationship in the past. However, the exact details of the relationship are not made public.
Judging by his social media posts, the Croatian seems to be an avid lover of adventure sports like shooting, hiking, etc. In addition, the 30-year-old is also a massive fan of football and follows the leagues in England, Spain, and his homeland, Croatia.
At the 2018 World Cup, Bogdanovic was present to support his beloved Croatia, who reached the World Cup final.
Furthermore, the Jazz small forward also likes to spend his free time with his friends and family. To emphasize, Bogdanovic often goes on vacations with his sisters and posts their adventures and stories on his various social media accounts.
His agents are Jason Ranne and Darren ‘Mats’ Matsubara.
What are some of Bojan Bogdanovic’s best games?
His recent best game was against the Nuggets in the 2020-21 regular season, where he made 48 points. He also scored 34, 33, and 32 points against the Raptors, Wizards, and Clippers.
These are some of the career highs he has recorded this season. Furthermore, while playing for the Nets, he scored 44 points against the 76ers.
What is Bojan Bogdanovic’s defense rating in the 2020-21 season?
This season, the basket baller’s defense rating is 111.7.
Is Bojan Bogdanovic and Bogdan Bogdanovic related?
No, the two are not related, as Bojan is Croatoan while Bogdan is Serbian. Nonetheless, their surnames are identical, and both are well-established NBA players.
What is Bogdan Bogdanovic’s vertical?
The professional athlete has recorded a 36-inch vertical.
What is the correct pronunciation of Bojan Bogdanovic?
His name is pronounced as bow·juhnbog·da·nuh·vich.
Bojan Bogdanovic is a Croatian professional basketball player for the New York Knicks of the National Basketball Association. He also represents Croatia’s national team internationally. Standing at 2.01 metres, he plays the small forward position.
Bogdanovic Bojan to the Knicks
Leon Rose is on a winning streak. He hasn’t missed a game since signing Jalen Brunson to what is widely regarded as the most valuable contract in basketball. The Knicks, who have avoided going all-in since flirting aggressively with Donovan Mitchell, have done well to add a stable of players cut squarely from Tom Thibodeau’s favoured fabric of two-way toughness.
OG Anunoby was clearly a home run. Donte DiVincenzo has been a laser-cut double in the gap. Josh Hart injected immediate juice at last year’s deadline, and Bogdanovic is another win on the margins, as New York has managed to keep all eight of its trade-eligible first-round picks in its holster while building out a group capable of conference finals contention.
What Knicks’ Bojan Bogdanovic trade with Pistons means long-term
The Knicks miraculously preserved salary cap flexibility and first-round picks in the Bogdanovic, Burks trade
The New York Knicks made one of the more significant moves on the penultimate day before the NBA’s trade deadline. The Knicks acquired Bojan Bogdanovic and Alec Burks for basically nothing.
To complete the deal, New York traded Quentin Grimes, who had recently fallen out of the Knicks’ rotation, to the Detroit Pistons. They also returned Evan Fournier, who had been out of the rotation all season, Ryan Archidiacono, Malachi Flynn, and two second-round picks.
All of this comes after New York made a trade earlier this season to add OG Anunoby and Precious Achiuwa.
So, despite acquiring talent, New York’s rotation stays intact, which is why the deal is regarded as a significant accomplishment for the Knicks’ playoff hopes. However, it has long-term consequences for the Knicks that will benefit them beyond the current season. Let us review.
Bojan Bogdanovic’s Contract
First, there are contract considerations that may affect a future trade. Fournier’s contract is an asset because it includes a team option for next season, which allows it to be picked up and used in a transaction this summer as well. It’s never been a huge asset because Fournier has been a limited player recently due to his defensive limitations. Furthermore, he has not seen significant or consistent action in more than a year. However, in certain cases, such as this one, actual influence is irrelevant.
So the Knicks traded away an asset that may have been used to add a star in the near future. The truth is, Bogdanovic’s deal provides a comparable benefit.
It is only partially guaranteed for 2024-25 and will expire following the next season. In other words, the Knicks still have a $19 million contract that can be used in a trade if a suitable star becomes available. And, given the disparity in on-court utility, Bogdanovic’s contract is more valuable than Fournier’s.
The Knicks’ list of first-round picks
The fact that New York was able to retain all of its future first-round picks is obviously a significant accomplishment. According to HoopsHype, Detroit turned down a deal centred on two first-round choices for Bogdanovic last season.
So acquiring Bogdanovic and Burks in exchange for Grimes, Fournier, Archidiacono, Flynn, and two second-round selections is a significant victory that benefits the team now while also preserving future flexibility.
Granted, Washington and Detroit’s picks are unlikely to be traded anytime soon, and they might end up as second-rounders.
They will, however, have their own picks as well as two others (Dallas and Milwaukee). That’s an enviable position to be in given how close the Kncks’ roster is to being complete. And few other teams can compete with the finest possible New York contract.
So, after almost a day, this offer appears even better than it did at first – and that’s saying something.
But for the time being, the Knicks will focus their efforts on the buyout market, as they still have approximately $2.5 million in cap space to deploy. As complete as the Knicks are now (when healthy), they may not be finished. Stay connected.
Andre Ayew’s remarkable bicycle kick goal during a match between Le Havre and FC Lorient in the French Ligue 1 has won the goal of the month for January.
Despite not being in the starting lineup, Ayew’s impact off the bench was nothing short of sensational. His first goal came shortly after his introduction to the game, showcasing his ability to immediately influence the match with his skill and experience. However, it was his second goal that stole the spotlight—a breathtaking bicycle kick from halfway through the field. This display of athleticism, timing, and skill not only leveled the score for Le Havre but also left spectators in awe of Ayew’s talent.
The significance of Ayew’s bicycle kick goal extends beyond its sheer brilliance. Following a comprehensive review of all goals scored in the French Ligue 1 throughout January, the technical study team unanimously voted Ayew’s goal as the standout moment of the month. This recognition underscores the exceptional quality of Ayew’s goal and its impact on the league. Furthermore, Ayew’s recent performances have seen him extend his goal tally for the season, with another goal scored against Strasbourg in the Coupe de France. With three goals in all competitions so far, Ayew has proven himself as a vital asset for Le Havre.
Looking ahead, Ayew’s impressive form positions him as a key player for Le Havre in their upcoming match against Stade Rennais. As he strives to secure a spot in the starting lineup, Ayew’s contributions on the field continue to be instrumental to his team’s success. His determination to make a difference, coupled with his exceptional skillset, reinforces his status as a top-tier player in the French Ligue 1 and beyond. As fans eagerly anticipate Ayew’s next performance, his bicycle kick goal stands as a testament to his talent and dedication to the sport.
FIFA has categorically denied recent reports suggesting the implementation of a blue card system in elite football competitions. The organization released an official statement emphasizing that such reports are both inaccurate and premature.
According to FIFA, while the idea of introducing a blue card may be under consideration for the future, any potential trials would initially occur at lower levels of the sport. This approach would ensure responsible testing and evaluation before any decision is made to implement the system at higher levels of competition.
The statement further clarified that discussions regarding the blue card proposal are set to take place during the upcoming IFAB AGM on March 2nd. FIFA reiterated its stance that any trials of the blue card, if conducted, would be carried out responsibly and methodically, with a focus on lower-level competitions initially.
The denial from FIFA follows widespread rumors indicating that the International Football Association Board (IFAB) had already approved the use of the blue card, with plans to introduce it in lower-level tournaments starting from the upcoming summer season. Additionally, reports suggested that the Football Association (FA) had expressed interest in implementing the blue card in both the Men’s and Women’s FA Cup competitions for the following season.
However, FIFA has made it clear that these rumors are unfounded, emphasizing that there are currently no concrete plans to introduce the blue card system in elite football competitions. The organization’s statement underscores the importance of proper evaluation and discussion before any potential changes to the rules are implemented on a broader scale.
The statement from FIFA read, “Reports of the so-called ‘blue card’ at elite levels of football are incorrect and premature.
“Any such trials, if implemented, should be limited to testing in a responsible manner at lower levels, a position that FIFA intends to reiterate when this agenda item is discussed at the IFAB AGM on 2 March.”
A blue card is reportedly set to be introduced in football as part of a disciplinary measure during matches. The new card will see players removed from the field for ten minutes and sent to sin bins if they commit a cynical foul or show dissent.
In a groundbreaking development, the International Football Association Board (IFAB) is poised to introduce blue cards to the sport of football. This initiative forms part of sin-bin protocols, enabling players who commit cynical fouls or display dissent to be temporarily removed from the field for 10 minutes.
According to The Telegraph, the sin-bin trials have received approval from IFAB and are scheduled to be announced on Friday. If implemented, the blue card would mark the first introduction of a new card in football since the 1970 FIFA World Cup, which introduced yellow and red cards.
During its usage, any player receiving two blue cards would be automatically sent off, akin to accumulating two yellow cards. However, the trial of the sin-bin protocols will initially exclude top-tier football competitions.
The Telegraph’s report indicates that the new protocol, to be announced on Friday, will limit the application of the blue card to fouls impeding promising attacks and instances of dissent. It also confirms that a player should receive a red card if they accumulate two blue cards during a match or a combination of yellow and blue cards.
While top-tier competitions will be exempt from the initial testing phase to allow for potential refinements, elite trials could commence as early as the summer. The trial of the blue card may be introduced in the FA Cup and Women’s FA Cup starting next season.
How will the blue cards work
The new protocol will limit the new card to fouls that prevent a promising attack or counters with shirt pulls or other deliberate fouls plus dissent.
A player will be shown a red card if he/she receive two blue cards during a match or a combination of yellow and blue
In a captivating semi-final showdown at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Nigeria secures a coveted spot in the final after triumphing over South Africa in a nail-biting penalty shootout.
The match unfolded with gripping intensity, characterized by contentious moments and a late equalizing penalty, offering a spectacle for football enthusiasts.
Nigeria in AFCON final: How they did it
Nigeria seized the initiative with an early goal, courtesy of a penalty awarded following Mothobi Mvala’s challenge on Victor Osimhen. William Troost-Ekong clinically dispatched the spot-kick, propelling Nigeria into the lead.
However, the game took a dramatic twist when VAR nullified Osimhen’s apparent second goal, leading to a penalty for South Africa. Teboho Mokoena calmly converted the spot-kick, leveling the score at 1-1 in the dying moments of regular time.
The tension escalated further as Grant Kekana received a red card early in extra time, reducing South Africa to ten men. Despite relentless efforts, neither side could break the deadlock in extra time, prompting a nerve-wracking penalty shootout.
The shootout witnessed both sides squandering opportunities, with Nigeria emerging victorious with a 4-2 triumph on penalties, despite Ola Aina’s miss for the Super Eagles.
With this hard-fought victory, Nigeria, a three-time AFCON champion, advances to the final, awaiting the outcome of the clash between Ivory Coast and DR Congo.
This pulsating encounter epitomized the unpredictability and excitement synonymous with the AFCON tournament, captivating football fans worldwide.
Nigeria will face either Cote d’Ivoire DR Congo on Sunday, hoping to capture their fourth African crown.
Nigeria made the early running in a cagey first half. The lively Iwobi brought the best from Williams, whose reflex save kept things goalless. South Africa responded in kind, Evidence Makgopa curling just wide before Percy Tau was thwarted when clean through.
The tension ratcheted after the break as both keepers took center stage. Nwabali acrobatically denied Makgopa once more, while at the other end Williams stood firm to repel Osimhen.
That set the scene for high drama in the closing stages. Nigeria earned a 67th minute penalty when Osimhen was flattened, which Troost-Ekong converted emphatically.
Sensing blood, a frenzied Nigeria pressed for the killer second. They thought they had it through Osimhen, but VAR intervened to spot an earlier foul. South Africa were awarded a lifeline penalty instead, dispatched by Mokoena.
So to extra time, where fatigue stifled attacking fluency. With legs heavy and nerves jangling, a shootout felt inevitable. Williams and Nwabali then took the spotlight.
While Williams correctly guessed the direction of two Nigerian penalties, his hands couldn’t match his intuition. Nwabali showed no such mercy, diving to deny both Mokoena and Mayambela.
As Nigeria soak up the raptures of reaching the final, Williams is left inconsolable. Four days ago he was the hero, now South Africa’s brokenhearted goalkeeper.
Nigeria now stand one win away from a fourth African crown. Propelled by Nwabali’s shootout brilliance, Sunday’s final sees them as a strong contenders for the title.
