Morgan Rogers Brace Fires Aston Villa to Historic 2-1 Win Over Depleted Manchester United

Morgan Rogers scored two stunning goals to inspire Aston Villa to a 2-1 victory over Manchester United at Villa Park on December 21, 2025, marking a rare home triumph against the Red Devils and extending Villa's remarkable winning streak.

The 23-year-old England forward opened the scoring just before halftime with a superb curled effort from the edge of the box, cutting inside before bending the ball beyond goalkeeper Senne Lammens. Manchester United equalized in first-half stoppage time through Matheus Cunha, capitalizing on a defensive error by Matty Cash.

Rogers restored Villa's lead in the 57th minute with another exquisite strike, curling home from a similar position after good work from Youri Tielemans and Ollie Watkins. The brace secured Aston Villa's 10th consecutive win across all competitions—the club's longest such run as a top-flight team since 1914—and their seventh straight Premier League victory, a feat never previously achieved in the competition era.

The result, only Villa's second home league win over United in the last 30 years, lifts Unai Emery's side to third in the table with 36 points, just three behind leaders Arsenal at Christmas. Manchester United, hampered by injuries—including captain Bruno Fernandes being forced off at halftime with a hamstring issue—remain seventh and face mounting challenges under Ruben Amorim.

"This is a massive win against a big team," said Rogers post-match. Emery praised his team's resilience, while Amorim lamented the growing injury list but refused to discuss panic January transfers.

Aston Villa next travel to Chelsea on December 27, while Manchester United host Newcastle on Boxing Day.

AFCON 2025: Hosts Morocco Open Account with 2-0 Win Over Stubborn Comoros in Tournament Opener

Tournament hosts Morocco kicked off the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations with a hard-fought 2-0 victory over a resilient Comoros side in the opening match at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium on December 21, 2025.

Despite dominating possession and creating numerous chances, the Atlas Lions were frustrated in a goalless first half, highlighted by a missed penalty from Soufiane Rahimi, superbly saved by Comoros goalkeeper Yannick Pandor. Morocco also suffered an early blow when captain Romain Saïss was forced off with injury.

The breakthrough came in the 55th minute when Real Madrid's Brahim Díaz side-footed home from close range after excellent work from Noussair Mazraoui. Substitute Ayoub El Kaabi then sealed the win with a spectacular overhead kick in the 74th minute, a moment of brilliance that lit up the rain-soaked evening and is already a contender for goal of the tournament.

Comoros, appearing in only their second AFCON finals, defended stoutly and created occasional threats on the counter, but ultimately couldn't breach Yassine Bounou's goal. The result extends Morocco's world-record winning streak to 19 matches.

"This was a difficult opening game, but we improved in the second half," said Morocco coach Walid Regragui. Comoros coach Stefano Cusin praised his team's effort against the continent's top-ranked side.

Morocco top Group A and next face Mali on December 26 in Rabat, while Comoros take on Zambia on the same day in Casablanca.

The 35th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations continues with matches across six Moroccan cities until the final on January 18, 2026.

Chelsea Manager Enzo Maresca to Serve Touchline Ban for Upcoming Aston Villa Clash

 Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca will be absent from the touchline for the Blues' Premier League match against Aston Villa on December 27, 2025, at Stamford Bridge, following a one-match suspension triggered by his third yellow card of the season.

The booking occurred during Chelsea's recent draw against Newcastle United on December 20, 2025, where Maresca was cautioned for protesting a refereeing decision. This marks the Italian manager's second touchline ban this season, having previously served a suspension earlier in the campaign.

Maresca explained the incident post-match, stating he was booked for complaining about a call, and expressed frustration over the accumulation of cautions leading to the ban. Despite the setback, Chelsea has received a boost with key players potentially returning from injury for the fixture, providing some positive momentum amid a competitive season.

The absence of Maresca from the dugout could impact Chelsea's strategy against a strong Aston Villa side, as the team aims to maintain its position in the league standings. Further updates on team news and preparations will be provided as the match approaches.

“We’re Lucky to Know You” – Music Executive PaulO Celebrates Partner Iyabo Ojo with Heartwarming Birthday Tribute as She Turns 48

Music executive and CEO of Upfront and Personal Management, Paul Okoye (popularly known as PaulO), has penned a touching tribute to his partner, Nollywood actress Iyabo Ojo, as she celebrates her 48th birthday on December 21, 2025.

In a heartfelt Instagram post, PaulO praised Iyabo for her strength, kindness, compassion, and resilience amid a challenging year. “Your compassion, and the support you give to everyone makes us all lucky to know you,” he wrote, adding, “You are, without a doubt, the strongest, kindest woman I know. And today, we don’t just celebrate your birthday — we celebrate you!”

Reflecting on 2025, PaulO highlighted the year's highs—including family weddings, new grandchildren, graduations, movie premieres, awards, and love—while acknowledging the tough moments and battles faced with grace. He commended Iyabo for smiling through difficulties and handling adversity decisively.

The couple, who went public with their relationship in 2022 during Iyabo's 45th birthday celebrations, continue to inspire fans with their supportive bond. Iyabo, known for her roles in over 150 films and her philanthropic work through the Pinkies Foundation, also shared her joy, describing becoming a mother-in-law and grandmother as the greatest gifts of the year.

The tribute has garnered widespread admiration on social media, with fans and colleagues applauding PaulO's public display of affection and celebrating Iyabo's enduring spirit.

“My Wife and I Will Tell Our Story at the Right Time” – Pastor Chris Okafor Addresses Critics During Wedding Thanksgiving

 Pastor Chris Okafor, founder of the Mountain of Liberation and Miracle Ministry (also known as Grace Nation), has assured his congregation that he and his new wife, Pearl, will share the full details of their love story and recent marriage when the time is spiritually appropriate.

During a thanksgiving service on December 21, 2025, following their wedding, Pastor Okafor responded to public criticism and speculation surrounding their union. He emphasized that external parties cannot accurately narrate their personal journey, stating: “Nobody can tell our story. Someday, and at the right time, we will share our stories, but for now, we just want to give thanks to God.”

The cleric highlighted that both he and his wife made a deliberate decision to withhold certain details, guided by prayer and divine direction. “There are encounters to this that you will not know now, but not long from now, we will tell our story,” he added.

The remarks come amid ongoing public controversy sparked by allegations from Nollywood actress Doris Ogala, who has claimed a past relationship with the pastor and made various accusations. Pastor Okafor extended gratitude to supporters and apologized to anyone feeling offended, while focusing on thanksgiving and spiritual sensitivity.

The couple's wedding and subsequent thanksgiving have drawn mixed reactions online, with many praising their union and others debating the surrounding narratives.

Grace Nation Ministry continues to emphasize themes of faith, deliverance, and gratitude.

“The d£vil became angry with the little we showed. My wife and I will tell our story at the right time.”

—Pastor Chris Okafor, responding to critics pic.twitter.com/FcsxSoZu7W

— CHUKS 🍥 (@ChuksEricE) December 21, 2025