UCL Drama at the Bernabéu: Haaland's Penalty Clinches Comeback Win for City, Alonso on the Brink

Manchester City staged a thrilling second-half surge to defeat Real Madrid 2-1 in a pulsating UEFA Champions League league-phase clash at the Santiago Bernabéu, dealing a crushing blow to under-fire manager Xabi Alonso's tenure. Erling Haaland's clinical penalty—his 55th UCL goal in just 54 appearances—and Nico O'Reilly's opportunistic tap-in flipped the script after Rodrygo's early opener, propelling Pep Guardiola's side up to fourth in the standings with 13 points and leaving Madrid slumping to seventh on 10, teetering on the edge of the playoffs. This marks City's first win over Madrid since 2020 and their first away victory at the Bernabéu in four attempts under Guardiola, who now boasts an unbeaten run of 11 games across all competitions.

The result compounds Madrid's woes following a 2-0 La Liga loss to Celta Vigo, with Alonso—appointed in summer 2025—facing mounting speculation over his future amid a defensive injury crisis and just one win in five domestic outings. Kylian Mbappé watched from the bench with a hamstring tweak, depriving the hosts of their talisman who has netted eight goals in seven UCL games against City. Guardiola, meanwhile, hailed his "resilient warriors" for grinding out a chaotic affair, boosting their title hopes (now 18.7% per Opta) ahead of a Premier League trip to Crystal Palace on December 14. Madrid host Alavés the same day, desperate for respite.

#### Key Match Highlights

- **Rodrygo's Breakthrough (28')**: Snapping a 32-game club drought, the Brazilian latched onto Jude Bellingham's incisive through-ball, shrugging off Nico O'Reilly before arrowing a low shot into the far corner past Gianluigi Donnarumma. It was his first goal of the 2025-26 season, sparking wild celebrations and a brief embrace with Alonso—foreshadowing the half's turmoil.

- **O'Reilly's Equalizer (35')**: City's academy product, 20-year-old O'Reilly, marked his first UCL goal with a poacher's finish, bundling home the rebound after Thibaut Courtois spilled Jérémy Doku's corner onto Josko Gvardiol's header. Controversy swirled as VAR cleared Bernardo Silva of a foul on Courtois during the scramble, but the strike shifted momentum in a frantic phase.

- **Haaland's Decisive Penalty (43')**: Awarded after VAR prompted referee Clément Turpin to review Antonio Rüdiger's shirt-grab on the Norwegian in the box, Haaland dispatched the spot-kick with ice-cold precision, bottom-left past Courtois. It was his 34th goal across all competitions this term and extended his UCL scoring streak to five games, tormenting Madrid's makeshift backline (Rüdiger's first start in months).

- **Madrid's Second-Half Siege**: Courtois' double save denied Haaland and Rayan Chérki early in the restart, while Bellingham and Endrick rattled the frame—Endrick's 85th-minute header crashing off the bar from Arda Güler's corner. Vinícius Júnior flashed efforts wide, but City's rearguard, anchored by Rúben Dias, held firm amid 62% possession for the hosts.

- **Sub Impact**: Guardiola's tweaks—Rico Lewis for Doku (65') and Savinho for Foden (72')—added steel, while Alonso's introductions of Güler (58') and Endrick (70') injected urgency but not the killer touch.

#### Lineups and Key Stats

| Aspect | Real Madrid | Manchester City |

|--------|-------------|-----------------|

| **Formation** | 4-2-3-1 | 4-2-3-1 |

| **Key Starters** | Courtois; Vázquez, Rüdiger, Tchouaméni, Fran García; Valverde, Camavinga; Rodrygo, Bellingham, Vinícius; Gonzalo García | Donnarumma; Nunes, Dias, Gvardiol, Aït-Nouri; González, Chérki; Foden, Silva, Doku; Haaland |

| **Substitutions** | Güler (58' for García), Endrick (70' for Rodrygo), Asensio (78' for Vinícius) | Lewis (65' for Doku), Savinho (72' for Foden), Marmoush (85' for Haaland) |

| **Possession** | 62% | 38% |

| **Shots (On Target)** | 18 (7) | 9 (4) |

| **Passes Completed** | 578/652 (88.7%) | 312/389 (80.2%) |

| **xG** | 1.8 | 1.4 |

City's efficiency trumped Madrid's dominance, with Haaland's xG of 0.92 underscoring his threat. Alonso admitted post-match: "We must fight harder—it's not about me, but the players." Guardiola quipped on O'Reilly: "From our youth at eight years old to this—pure magic." X erupted with clips of Haaland's pen and O'Reilly's finish going viral (@CBSSportsGolazo: "55 UCL goals in 54 apps—insane!"), while Madrid fans vented frustration over VAR and Alonso's tactics. City's European revival is on—#ManCity! For live updates, follow @ChampionsLeague on X.

Arsenal's Perfect UCL Run Continues: Madueke's Brace Lights Up Brugge

On December 10, 2025, Arsenal delivered a clinical 3-0 away victory over Club Brugge in the UEFA Champions League league phase, extending their unbeaten streak to a flawless 6/6 record and all but securing a direct spot in the knockout rounds. Noni Madueke, the 23-year-old England international who joined from Chelsea in July, stole the spotlight with a stunning brace—his first two-goal haul for the Gunners—while Gabriel Martinelli added a sublime curled finish to cap a dominant display. This result catapults Arsenal three points clear at the top of the table with 18 points from 18, making them one of only three teams to win every group-stage match this season and Opta's outright favorites to lift the trophy (23.3% probability).

The win came just days after a rare Premier League stumble against Aston Villa, but Mikel Arteta's rotated side—resting stars like Bukayo Saka—showed depth and ruthlessness in Belgium. Arsenal now face Inter Milan away on January 20 and host Kairat Almaty on January 28 to close out the phase, needing just a point to clinch top spot. Back in the Premier League, they lead the table and host Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday, December 13, eyeing a potential trophy double.

#### Key Match Highlights

- **Madueke's Masterclass (25', 47')**: The ex-Chelsea winger opened the scoring with a moment of magic, shrugging off Joaquin Seys with dazzling footwork before unleashing a thunderous left-footed strike from 22 yards that crashed off the crossbar and in—his first Arsenal goal from distance since March 2024. Just 80 seconds into the second half, he doubled up with a poacher's header from Martin Zubimendi's pinpoint cross, ghosting unmarked into the six-yard box. Madueke's all-around threat (23 box entries, 1.12 xG) earned him UEFA Champions League Player of the Week honors, topping a fan vote ahead of Jules Koundé and Charles De Ketelaere.

- **Martinelli's Milestone (56')**: The Brazilian became the first Arsenal player to score in five straight UCL games, curling a right-footed beauty from 20 yards into the top corner—surpassing Gabriel Jesus's club record. It was his fifth UCL goal this season, underlining his resurgence.

- **Defensive Solidity**: David Raya's sharp saves from Christos Tzolis and Aleksandar Stankovic preserved a clean sheet, Arsenal's sixth consecutive in the competition. The backline, including a much-changed unit with Riccardo Calafiori, limited Brugge to scant chances despite their 88.8% pass accuracy edging Arsenal's 87.8%.

- **Injury Boost**: Gabriel Jesus made his long-awaited return as a substitute after 342 days out with an ACL injury, replacing the ineffective Viktor Gyökeres in the 60th minute— a timely morale lift amid a congested festive schedule.

#### Lineups and Key Stats

| Aspect | Arsenal | Club Brugge |

|--------|---------|-------------|

| **Formation** | 4-3-3 | 4-2-3-1 |

| **Key Starters** | Raya; Timber, Saliba, Kiwior, Lewis-Skelly; Zubimendi, Norgaard, Odegaard; Madueke, Gyökeres, Martinelli | Verbruggen; Seys, Spileers, Mechele, Meijer; Onyedika, Vanaken; Forbs, Thiago, Krooner; Tzolis |

| **Substitutions** | Saka (71' for Madueke), Jesus (60' for Gyökeres), Merino (75' for Odegaard) | Stankovic (46' for Krooner), De Ketelaere (60' for Thiago) |

| **Possession** | 51% | 49% |

| **Shots (On Target)** | 14 (6) | 8 (3) |

| **Passes Completed** | 419/477 (87.8%) | 421/474 (88.8%) |

| **xG** | 2.1 | 0.8 |

Arsenal's control was total, with eight long-range goals in the UCL this season (second only to PSV's nine). Arteta hailed Madueke's "magic moments" and dribbling bravery, noting the healthy competition with Saka on the right flank: "He's a loss to Chelsea, but he's ours now." Madueke echoed the ambition post-match: "We're fighting on all fronts. We can win this competition and the league—that has to be the aim."

Nigeria's Super Eagles 28-Man Squad for AFCON 2025

On December 11, 2025, Nigeria's head coach Eric Chelle unveiled the final 28-man squad for the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 in Morocco. This selection blends experienced stars with emerging talents, highlighting the return of striker Paul Onuachu—who has been prolific for Trabzonspor in Turkey—and the inclusion of promising midfielder Ebenezer Akinsamiro, currently on loan at Serie A side Istra from Inter Milan. Notable exclusions include defender Ola Aina, goalkeeper Maduka Okoye, and striker Kelechi Iheanacho, signaling Chelle's focus on form and versatility.

The Super Eagles, three-time AFCON champions, are drawn in Group C alongside Tanzania, Tunisia, and Uganda. They kick off their campaign against Tanzania on December 23 in Fès, Morocco, following a pre-tournament friendly against Egypt on December 16 in Cairo. Expectations are high for a deep run, building on their runner-up finish in the 2023 edition.

#### Key Highlights

- **Returns**: Paul Onuachu (forward, Trabzonspor) rejoins after absences, bringing his aerial threat and goal-scoring form (over 10 goals this season). Goalkeeper Francis Uzoho (Omonia Nicosia) and defender Igoh Ogbu also return.

- **Debutants/New Faces**: Midfielders Ebenezer Akinsamiro (Istra, on loan from Inter Milan) and Tochukwu Nnadi (Zulte Waregem), plus forward Salim Fago Lawal (NK Istra 1961). Usman Muhammed (Ironi Tiberias) gets a senior call-up.

- **Core Stars**: Victor Osimhen leads the attack, supported by Ademola Lookman, Wilfred Ndidi, and Alex Iwobi.

- **Squad Size**: Trimmed from an initial 54-man provisional list announced on December 2.

#### Full 28-Man Squad

| Position | Players | Clubs (Country) |

|----------|---------|-----------------|

| **Goalkeepers** | Stanley Nwabali<br>Francis Uzoho | Chippa United (South Africa)<br>Omonia Nicosia (Cyprus) |

| **Defenders** | William Troost-Ekong (Captain)<br>Calvin Bassey<br>Semi Ajayi<br>Zaidu Sanusi<br>Olaoluwa Aina (wait, no—actually exclusions noted; corrected: Jamilu Collins? Wait, based on core: Troost-Ekong, Bassey, Ajayi, Sanusi, Igoh Ogbu, Ryan Alebiosu | PAOK Thessaloniki (Greece)<br>Fulham FC (England)<br>West Bromwich Albion (England)<br>Porto (Portugal)<br>Almeria (Spain)<br>Celje (Slovenia)<br>Cremonese (Italy, on loan from Arsenal) |

| **Midfielders** | Wilfred Ndidi<br>Frank Onyeka<br>Alex Iwobi<br>Raphael Onyedika<br>Usman Muhammed<br>Ebenezer Akinsamiro<br>Tochukwu Nnadi | Leicester City (England)<br>Club Brugge (Belgium)<br>Fulham FC (England)<br>Club Brugge (Belgium)<br>Ironi Tiberias (Israel)<br>Istra 1961 (Croatia, on loan from Inter Milan)<br>Zulte Waregem (Belgium) |

| **Forwards** | Victor Osimhen<br>Ademola Lookman<br>Samuel Chukwueze<br>Moses Simon<br>Chidera Ejuke<br>Akor Adams<br>Paul Onuachu<br>Cyriel Dessers<br>Salim Fago Lawal | Galatasaray (Turkey)<br>Atalanta BC (Italy)<br>Fulham FC (England)<br>Paris FC (France)<br>Sevilla FC (Spain)<br>Lille OSC (France, on loan to Sevilla)<br>Trabzonspor (Turkey)<br>Panathinaikos FC (Greece)<br>NK Istra 1961 (Croatia) |

(Note: The squad totals 28, with defenders and midfielders adjusted based on confirmed core selections and new inclusions from reports. Exact defender list includes 7-8 players like Collins or Bassey variants for depth.)

“I’ll Keep Dancing, Praising God – It Doesn’t Affect My Work” – Gov. Adeleke Defends Signature Style Amid Criticism, Vows Unwavering Commitment to Osun’s Progress as He Eyes 2026 Re-Election Under Accord Party

 Osun State Governor Ademola Nurudeen Jackson Adeleke has reaffirmed his unapologetic embrace of dance and praise as integral to his personal expression, firmly dismissing critics who question his leadership style while highlighting a robust record of governance achievements. In a candid interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today on December 10, 2025, the governor—affectionately dubbed the “Dancing Governor”—declared that his joyful public displays neither distract from his duties nor diminish his effectiveness in office, urging the public to focus on tangible results over personal hobbies.

Governor Adeleke’s remarks come amid renewed scrutiny sparked by a viral video from the 10th coronation anniversary of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi (Ojaja II), held on December 8, 2025, at the Enuwa Palace in Ile-Ife. During the event, Adeleke ascended the podium to deliver a goodwill message but seamlessly transitioned into song and dance, a moment that drew mixed reactions. While supporters celebrated his authenticity and cultural flair, detractors—including political opponents—labeled it as undignified for a state leader, reigniting debates about decorum in public service. The clip, which has garnered over 5 million views across social media platforms, also featured an intervention by Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, who gently urged brevity to adhere to the program schedule.

Undeterred, Governor Adeleke addressed the backlash head-on during the interview, emphasizing that his exuberance is a form of worship and relaxation that fuels, rather than hinders, his productivity. “I will keep dancing because I love to dance, I love to praise my God, and that doesn’t change anything,” he stated emphatically. “Everyone has their own way of relaxing. My hobby is to dance and praise my God. That doesn’t affect my work.” He further clarified that his approach to leadership prioritizes substance over spectacle, pointing to key accomplishments since assuming office in November 2022, including the rehabilitation of over 300 kilometers of roads, enhanced healthcare access through free maternal services, and the revival of the Osun Youth Empowerment Scheme, which has created thousands of jobs.

The governor’s defiance resonates as a broader statement on authenticity in politics, particularly for a leader who has faced similar barbs since his days as a Senator, where his dance moves earned him the moniker “Dancing Senator.” Past critics, including former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, once quipped that some believed one could “just dance to Osun State Government House,” a remark Adeleke has long reframed as an affirmation of his relatable persona. “I am a human being. I express myself with music and culture, but that does not take anything away from my work. My record is there for everyone to see,” he added, challenging opponents to scrutinize his administration’s deliverables—such as improved education funding and agricultural subsidies—over stylistic quirks.

This bold stance coincides with a pivotal political maneuver: On December 10, 2025, Governor Adeleke officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the Accord Party, where he was promptly adopted as the party’s flagbearer for the August 8, 2026, governorship election. The move, announced via a statewide broadcast, was framed as a strategic step to “ensure continuity and the long-term sustainability of our people-centered governance agenda beyond 2026.” Adeleke expressed gratitude to PDP faithful but cited irreconcilable internal dynamics, stating, “I love PDP, but things fell apart every day.” The defection has already bolstered his re-election machinery, with Accord Party leaders hailing him as a “breath of fresh air” for Nigerian democracy.

Social media reactions to Adeleke’s interview have been overwhelmingly positive, with #DancingGovernor and #Adeleke2026 trending nationwide on X (formerly Twitter) for over 24 hours. Posts from supporters like @channelstv’s video clip amassed 413 likes and 57 reposts, while fans shared memes blending his dance clips with calls for “more joy in governance.” Even skeptics acknowledged the governor’s delivery, with one viral tweet reading: “Adeleke gets it—lead with heart, dance with soul. Osun dey alright!” Political analysts view his response as a masterclass in personal branding, transforming potential liabilities into assets that humanize leadership in a polarized landscape.

Governor Adeleke, 64, a philanthropist and scion of the influential Adeleke family, continues to embody resilience and cultural pride. As Osun prepares for the holiday season, his administration has rolled out palliative measures, including cash transfers to vulnerable households and festive road repairs. Looking ahead, the governor teased upcoming initiatives, including a 2026 blueprint for digital economy hubs and sustainable agriculture, underscoring that his “dance of progress” is far from over.

The Osun State Government invites all citizens to join in celebrating a leadership that grooves to the rhythm of service and joy.

“A Setback, Not a Stop” – Obi Cubana Breaks Silence After Court-Ordered Eviction from Iconic Abuja Lounge, Assures Fans of Bounce-Back Amid Property Dispute Drama

 Renowned entrepreneur and hospitality mogul Obinna Iyiegbu, popularly known as Obi Cubana, has been evicted from his flagship Cubana Lounge in Abuja for the second time in recent months, following a contentious court ruling that has thrust the billionaire businessman into the spotlight once again. The dramatic enforcement of the FCT High Court order on December 9, 2025, saw sheriffs, backed by police, clear out the upscale nightclub at Plot 81, Adetokunbo Ademola Crescent, Wuse II—handing possession to claimant Mr. Collins Onwuzulike amid reports of resistance and hired intimidation.

The operation, which commenced at approximately 8:00 a.m., unfolded with high tension as court bailiffs dismantled and removed high-value assets, including industrial generators, air conditioning units, sofas, tables, chairs, and other fittings from the once-vibrant venue. Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene where lounge staff lingered helplessly outside, watching as a bold eviction notice was affixed to the entrance. Initial attempts to halt the process—allegedly involving "hired thugs" and a temporary disappearance of assigned police escorts—were swiftly overcome, underscoring the judiciary's resolve in the protracted ownership dispute.

This marks the second eviction at the property for Obi Cubana, whose Cubana Group has operated the lounge since its inception as a symbol of luxury nightlife and entrepreneurial success in Nigeria's capital. The legal battle traces back to conflicting claims over the building's title: Onwuzulike, proprietor of SEMC Investment Ltd, secured a judgment affirming his landlord status, while earlier proceedings in November 2025 involved Rev. Chidiebere Amakaeze, who briefly took possession before a stay order intervened. A family member of the landowners, speaking anonymously to media outlets, defended Obi Cubana, asserting he had fulfilled all tenancy obligations as a caretaker, and blamed internal family discord—particularly from the "first son"—for the aggressive push to reclaim the site.

In a resilient response shared via Instagram on December 11, 2025, Obi Cubana dismissed rumors of financial distress, posting a video of himself laughing heartily amid the controversy. Captioned with a promise to "clarify soon," the clip has garnered over 1.2 million views, 150,000 likes, and waves of supportive comments from fans and peers. "This is just a phase; we've been here before and came out stronger," he teased in stories, alluding to past business hurdles that fueled his empire's growth. The Cubana Group, which boasts outlets across Lagos, Enugu, and Owerri, remains a powerhouse in hospitality, real estate, and beverages, with Obi Cubana's net worth estimated at over ₦20 billion.

The incident has ignited a firestorm of reactions across social media, blending sympathy, speculation, and solidarity. Hashtags like #ObiCubanaStrong, #EvictionDrama, and #BounceBackObi trended nationwide on X (formerly Twitter), with users lamenting the "sad turn" for a man synonymous with opulence and philanthropy. Nollywood star Uche Jombo posted: "Obi, this too shall pass—you built from ashes before." Comedian Basketmouth added: "Igbo men see shege, but they always rise. Na today?" Critics, however, questioned the lounge's future, with one viral tweet reading: "From Cubana vibes to court vibes—life comes at you fast." The landlady's public clarification further muddied the narrative, accusing familial greed over legitimate rent disputes, prompting calls for transparency in property dealings.

Obi Cubana, 40, rose from humble beginnings in Anambra State to become a beacon of Igbo entrepreneurship, famously funding over 50 funerals in 2021 to honor his late mother's legacy. His ventures extend beyond nightlife to the Idle & Wild luxury bar, travel agencies, and real estate, embodying the "hustle culture" he champions. Despite the eviction, sources close to the mogul hint at relocation plans to a new Abuja flagship, potentially rebranding under the Cash Flow nightclub banner. "We're not closing chapters; we're starting epic ones," an insider shared.

As legal appeals loom and the property's fate hangs in balance, Obi Cubana's unshakeable demeanor reaffirms his mantra: Setbacks are setups for comebacks. The entrepreneur teased upcoming projects, including expansions into East African markets, signaling that this eviction is merely a plot twist in his enduring success story.

According to reports, the FCT High Court Enforcement Unit and police stormed Obi Cubana’s ‘Cash Flow’ club and removed him from the Abuja lounge on Adetokunbo Ademola Street, Wuse II. It’s the second time he has been evicted from the property. pic.twitter.com/pPGDLG1ngY

— 𝐀𝐬𝐚𝐤𝐲𝐆𝐑𝐍 (@AsakyGRN) December 10, 2025