Carabao Cup: Manchester City set up Arsenal final after Newcastle rout

**Manchester City** cruised into the **Carabao Cup final** with a commanding performance against **Newcastle United**, setting up a blockbuster showdown against **Arsenal** at Wembley.

In the second leg of the semi-final on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at the Etihad Stadium, Pep Guardiola's side secured a **3-1 victory** (5-1 on aggregate) over the defending champions Newcastle. City had already taken a 2-0 lead from the first leg at St James' Park, and they wasted no time putting the tie to bed.

**Omar Marmoush** was the star of the show, netting a quick-fire brace in the first half (goals in the 7th and 29th minutes) to effectively end Newcastle's hopes. **Tijjani Reijnders** added a third just after the half-hour mark (32nd minute), making it 3-0 on the night and 5-0 aggregate. Newcastle managed a late consolation through **Anthony Elanga** in the 62nd minute, but it was mere damage limitation as City dominated throughout.

The rout highlighted City's depth and clinical edge, even with rotation—James Trafford impressed in goal with key saves, while the attacking play was ruthless in the opening period. Newcastle, despite their recent successes, suffered their 12th consecutive away defeat to City and couldn't mount a serious comeback.

This win books City's place in the **Carabao Cup final** against Arsenal on **Sunday, March 22, 2026**, at Wembley Stadium (kick-off 4:30pm UK time). It promises to be a thrilling clash: the current top two in the Premier League, pitting Pep Guardiola against his former assistant Mikel Arteta in a repeat of past finals (including 2018). With both sides chasing silverware amid a tight title race, this could be the first major trophy of the 2025/26 season and set the tone for the rest of the campaign.

Fans are buzzing about the "mouthwatering" matchup, with subplots galore—rivalry, tactical battles, and potential title implications if the league form continues.

What a statement from City! 🔥🏆

For highlights, check official channels like Manchester City's site, Sky Sports, ESPN, or YouTube uploads from CBS Sports Golazo and the EFL. Reports from The Guardian, AP News, Sky Sports, and ESPN have full details.

Lookman marks Atletico debut with milestone goal

 **Nigerian superstar Ademola Lookman** made a dream debut for **Atlético Madrid**, scoring his first goal for the club and reaching a major career milestone in the process.

The 28-year-old forward, who completed a high-profile transfer from **Atalanta** to Atlético Madrid in early February 2026 (signing until 2030 for around €35-40m plus add-ons), wasted no time impressing under Diego Simeone. He started in the **Copa del Rey quarter-final** away at **Real Betis** on Thursday, February 5, 2026, and played a starring role in a dominant **5-0 victory** that propelled Atlético into the semi-finals.

Lookman was directly involved in three of the five goals:

- He provided a key assist/pass that led to **Giuliano Simeone**'s goal (making it 0-2 around the 30th minute).

- In the 37th minute, he scored Atlético's third—a clinical finish after dribbling past defenders, cutting inside, and slotting the ball past the keeper off the post. This was his debut goal for the club.

- He later added another assist on a counterattack that set up **Antoine Griezmann** for the 0-4.

The strike was extra special: it marked Lookman's **100th goal** in his professional career, a milestone celebrated widely as he announced himself in La Liga style. From his early days at Charlton Athletic through Everton, RB Leipzig, Leicester City, Atalanta (where he famously scored a Europa League final hat-trick in 2024), and now Atlético—this goal symbolized his journey and growth.

Post-match, Lookman expressed his joy: “I'm very, very happy, very proud to make my debut tonight, especially the performance from the team... The team welcomed me warmly and made it easy for me.” Simeone praised his qualities, noting he brings something different that will strengthen the squad.

Nigerian fans, Super Eagles supporters, and the global football community erupted in praise, hailing it as a "perfect debut" and proof of his elite level. This comes after his standout performances, including at the Africa Cup of Nations, and solidifies his status as one of Africa's top talents.

What a way to start life at the Metropolitano! 🔥🇳🇬

Mercy Eke bags master’s degree as graduates from UK university

 **Big Brother Naija Season 4 winner Mercy Eke** has achieved another major milestone by earning her **Master's degree in Business Administration (MBA)** from the **University of Sunderland** in the United Kingdom.

The reality TV star, actress, and media personality announced her graduation in early February 2026, sharing joyful photos and videos from her ceremony—dressed in her academic gown and mortarboard. She captioned some posts with excitement like “It’s MBA baby!” and expressed gratitude for the challenging yet rewarding journey. Mercy previously revealed her intention to pursue the MBA back in 2025 as a way to “level up” with new experiences and learning.

Reports indicate she graduated with distinction in some accounts, highlighting her dedication despite doubts from others. This adds to her academic background—she holds a prior degree (in Mass Communication or similar) from Imo State University, earned before her BBNaija fame in 2019.

Fans, colleagues, and the online community have flooded her with congratulations, praising her for balancing her thriving entertainment career (including roles in films like *Shanty Town* and *Fate of Alakada*), business ventures, and further education. Many call her an inspiration, noting her drive to keep growing beyond reality TV success.

This comes amid her continued influence in Nollywood and social media, where she's known for her luxurious lifestyle and motivational vibe. Mercy has shown that beauty, brains, and ambition go hand in hand—proving that personal development never stops.

Congratulations to Mercy Eke on this impressive achievement! 🎓✨ May it open even more doors for her.

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Nollywood actress, Aunty Ajara passes away

 The Nollywood industry, particularly the Yoruba film sector, is mourning the loss of popular actress **Ajara Lasisi**, fondly known as **Aunty Ajara**.

She passed away in the early hours of Thursday, February 5, 2026, after a prolonged battle with illness, specifically reported as a **liver-related condition** (or liver disease in several sources). Her death was confirmed by her brother, Ridwan Lasisi, in a video message where he thanked the public, colleagues, and the Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN) for their support, prayers, and financial contributions during her hospitalization. Filmmaker Tobi Oladele (Tee Mony) also announced it, stating she "passed on overnight after a long and courageous battle with illness."

Aunty Ajara was a beloved figure in Yoruba Nollywood, recognized for her petite stature, vibrant energy, comedic timing, and memorable supporting roles—often as dramatic neighbors, market women, outspoken relatives, or maternal characters. Her unique presence brought humor and authenticity to many films and online content, earning her widespread affection from fans and peers.

Reports indicate she was around 28–31 years old (sources vary slightly on exact age), originally from Ogun State, and a Muslim—leading to her burial the same day in accordance with Islamic rites. Some accounts mention she was pregnant (discovered in December 2025), which complicated her health struggles, and her condition had deteriorated rapidly despite public appeals for medical funds just weeks prior. Colleagues like Adeniyi Johnson had shared videos of her on oxygen, pleading for help.

The news has sparked an outpouring of grief on social media, with tributes highlighting her lively spirit and the joy she brought to screens. Her sudden passing has left the industry heartbroken.

May her gentle soul rest in perfect peace (Aljanat Firdaus). 🕊️

Nollywood actor recently opened up in a candid interview with Jay On Air about why he couldn't maintain a significant past relationship

 Nollywood actor **Timini Egbuson** recently opened up in a candid interview with Jay On Air about why he couldn't maintain a significant past relationship, even as he achieved financial success and wealth.

He described losing a woman he believes was his **soulmate** as one of his biggest regrets. At the time, Timini was heavily focused on building his career and financial stability—he prioritized work, long hours, and "putting food on the table," believing that providing money was the main way to show love. He assumed his partner would understand his frequent absences and lack of presence because of these efforts.

However, this approach backfired. His partner simply wanted emotional availability, attention, and for him to **show up** consistently. The relationship lacked depth beyond finances, and she eventually left and married someone else who could offer the presence and emotional support he wasn't providing.

Timini now realizes that **money alone isn't enough** to sustain a relationship. He emphasized:

- Money is important but "just one out of many things that matter."

- Emotional presence, active listening, remembering details, genuine interest in your partner's life, and good communication are crucial.

- If all a man brings to a relationship is money, "then you're a very shallow man."

- Focusing only on financial provision can attract the wrong people or shift the dynamic to one where love is measured materially.

- He admitted his own shortcomings, like poor communication, selfishness, and being emotionally unavailable due to his busy schedule.

This reflection shows personal growth—he's shifted his perspective and now values balance between success and being fully present in relationships. The interview clip has gone viral, sparking discussions about the real costs of prioritizing career over emotional connection in modern relationships.

" if all you bring is money , you are a shallow man"

- Timini pic.twitter.com/mIyl0kpcGf

— Metro Naija (@metronaija) February 5, 2026