Paphael News

In an electrifying display of dominance and precision, Kenya’s Faith Kipyegon shattered the women’s 1500m world record with a time of 3:48.68 at the Prefontaine Classic, part of the Wanda Diamond League Final, held on Saturday at Hayward Field in Eugene, Oregon. The 30-year-old Olympic and world champion not only defended her status as the world’s premier middle-distance runner but also redefined the limits of human endurance in the event. Kipyegon took control of the race from the outset, sticking closely to the pacemakers and guided by the innovative Wavelight pacing technology. She hit each lap with clockwork precision, pulling away in the final 400 meters to cross the finish line well ahead of her competitors and her previous world record of 3:49.11, set in Florence just months ago (World Athletics, 2025). “This means a lot to me,” Kipyegon said moments after the race, visibly emotional. “I came here with a goal, and I felt strong and confident. I just wanted to run free, follow...

Jamaican sprinter Kishane Thompson delivered a statement performance on Sunday, winning the highly anticipated Men’s 100m event at the 2025 Prefontaine Classic with a time of 9.85 seconds. The meet, part of the prestigious Wanda Diamond League, was held at Hayward Field in Eugene and attracted elite global talent across various track and field disciplines. Thompson’s victory not only marked one of the fastest times of the season but also affirmed his position as one of the leading sprinters heading into the World Athletics Championships later this year. The 22-year-old burst out of the blocks with explosive speed and maintained a clear lead through the finish line, stunning spectators and analysts alike with his composed and dominant run. British sprinter Zharnel Hughes finished second, clocking a season’s best of 9.91 seconds. Hughes, the European 100m record holder, showed great form and consistency as he held off a strong challenge from American Trayvon Bromell, who took third pla...

In a thrilling showdown at the latest Diamond League meeting, American sprinter Melissa Jefferson-Wooden delivered one of the most impressive performances of her career by defeating Olympic champion Julien Alfred in the women’s 100 metres final. Jefferson-Wooden surged to the line in a blistering time of 10.75 seconds , narrowly edging Alfred, who followed closely at 10.77 seconds . The result came as a surprise to many athletics observers, as Alfred, the reigning Olympic 100m gold medallist and one of the season's top performers, was the favorite heading into the race. However, Jefferson-Wooden’s explosive start and strong finish proved decisive in securing the victory. The win marks one of her fastest times this season and signals a strong return to form as she builds momentum toward the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Ivorian sprint legend Marie-Josée Ta Lou-Smith also impressed, clinching third place with a Season’s Best of 10.90 seconds . The 35-year-old veteran continues to prov...

Former Nigerian international and Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai , has passed away following a brief illness. The news of his death sent shockwaves through Nigeria’s football community and beyond, as tributes continue to pour in for one of the nation's most iconic goalkeepers. According to sources close to the family, Rufai, aged 61, died on Tuesday after suffering health complications in Lagos. Although details of his illness have not been officially disclosed, family members confirmed that the former football star had been under medical care in the days leading up to his passing. Born on August 24, 1963, in Lagos, Peter Rufai , fondly nicknamed “Dodo Mayana” , was widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s finest goalkeepers. He made over 60 appearances for the Nigerian national team between 1983 and 1998, earning admiration for his composure, agility, and leadership on the pitch. Rufai was instrumental in Nigeria’s victory at the 1994 African Cup of Nations in Tunisia and playe...

The footballing world is in mourning following the tragic death of Liverpool and Portugal forward Diogo Jota and his younger brother, André Silva, in a devastating car accident in Spain. The incident reportedly occurred in the early hours of Wednesday morning along a highway near Salamanca, while the pair were traveling on a private vacation. According to Spanish authorities, the crash involved a single vehicle, which veered off the road at high speed and collided with a barrier before overturning. Emergency responders arrived at the scene shortly after the accident was reported but were unable to save the occupants. Both Jota and Silva were pronounced dead at the scene. Investigations into the cause of the crash are currently ongoing, but early reports suggest there were no other vehicles involved and no signs of foul play. Diogo Jota, 28, was a prominent figure in European football, known for his clinical finishing, versatility, and work rate. He joined Liverpool FC in 2020 from Wo...

Nigerian football sensation Victor Osimhen was recently seen enjoying a luxurious boat cruise in Dubai alongside billionaire businessman and nightlife mogul, Obi Cubana. The two high-profile figures were captured aboard a sleek private yacht, soaking in the opulence of Dubai’s waterfront with scenic views and luxury living on full display. The photos, which have gone viral on social media, have generated widespread admiration. Osimhen, fresh off a phenomenal 2024/2025 season with Turkish champions Galatasaray , appeared relaxed and jubilant in the company of the influential Cubana. The Super Eagles striker scored a staggering 36 goals across all competitions , playing a vital role in Galatasaray’s domestic and European campaigns. His performances not only helped secure the Süper Lig title but also earned him recognition as one of the most lethal strikers in European football. The 26-year-old’s standout form has placed him at the center of intense transfer speculation, with reports...

In a significant shift in policy, the University of Pennsylvania has barred transgender athletes from competing on women's sports teams, following a newly brokered agreement with the administration of President Donald Trump. The deal, which has sparked national debate, not only halts future participation of transgender women in women’s sports at the Ivy League institution but also retroactively removes recognition of their past athletic accomplishments. The agreement reportedly comes in response to broader Republican-led efforts to restrict the inclusion of transgender athletes in gendered sports categories across the United States. While the full terms of the deal have not yet been publicly released, University officials confirmed that the policy change aligns with the Trump administration’s long-standing stance on sex-based athletic classifications. “This move is part of ensuring fairness in women’s sports,” a senior official from the Trump camp said in a statement. “Athletics...

In a dazzling moment that highlighted the pride and progress of women’s football on the continent, Nigerian football stars Asisat Oshoala and Rasheedat Ajibade stole the spotlight during the official unveiling of the new CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) trophy. The event, held under the auspices of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), showcased not only the beautifully redesigned trophy but also the stature and influence of African women in sports. Representing Nigeria with elegance and grace, Oshoala and Ajibade made a powerful statement — they didn’t just attend the unveiling; they owned the stage. “Asisat Oshoala and Rasheedat Ajibade brought pure steeze and composure to the trophy reveal,” CAF noted on its official social media platform, capturing the essence of their presence at the event. Dressed in coordinated, stylish outfits that blended athleticism with cultural pride, the two superstars symbolized both the legacy and the future of African women’s footbal...

The track and field world is bracing for a sprint showdown that feels like a preview of the Tokyo 2025 World Athletics Championships. The women’s 100m event at the 50th edition of the Nike Prefontaine Classic , scheduled for Saturday, July 5, 2025 , promises to be one of the most electrifying races of the year, as some of the globe’s fastest women line up at the iconic Hayward Field in Eugene, Oregon. The entry list reads like a who's who of sprinting royalty, featuring top-tier talent from across the world. Leading the pack is Sha’Carri Richardson (USA) , the reigning World Champion and crowd favorite, looking to reaffirm her dominance after an impressive start to the season. She will face stiff competition from Julien Alfred (Saint Lucia) , the 2023 NCAA Champion and rising international star. The American contingent is bolstered by Melissa Jefferson-Wooden , the 2022 US champion, and Twanisha “TeeTee” Terry , known for her explosive finish and strong relay performances. Great...

Nigerian football star Asisat Oshoala proudly represented Team Nigeria at the grand unveiling of the new Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) trophy, signaling a renewed era of recognition and respect for women's football across the continent. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) revealed the redesigned trophy in a ceremony aimed at elevating the status of the women’s game, ahead of the 2025 WAFCON tournament scheduled to be hosted in Morocco. The new trophy, which boasts a modern, elegant design, is part of CAF’s broader campaign to promote gender equality and amplify investment in women’s sports. Asisat Oshoala, a six-time African Women's Footballer of the Year and current forward for Bay FC in the United States, was chosen as Nigeria’s ambassador for the event. Her presence underscored her influence as a trailblazer in African football and a vocal advocate for female athletes. "This is more than a trophy; it is a symbol of how far we’ve come and how much fu...

In a dramatic and unexpected twist at the FIFA Club World Cup, Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal delivered a stunning blow to reigning English and European champions Manchester City, knocking them out with a 4-3 victory after extra time on Monday. The match, held at a packed stadium in Jeddah, marked the most significant upset of the tournament so far and a defining moment in Al Hilal’s footballing history. The game started with Manchester City asserting early dominance, controlling possession and creating a flurry of chances. Their efforts paid off in the 18th minute when Bernardo Silva slotted in a well-placed shot to give City a 1-0 lead. However, Al Hilal quickly responded through a clinical counterattack finished by Malcom, leveling the score before halftime. The second half turned into a rollercoaster of momentum shifts. Erling Haaland restored City’s lead in the 55th minute with a trademark strike, but Al Hilal refused to be subdued. Former Porto striker Moussa Marega brought the S...

In a powerful show of emotion and admiration, Galatasaray fans made a passionate appeal to star striker Victor Osimhen during the club’s final match of the season, unveiling a large banner urging the Nigerian forward to remain at the club. The banner, which featured an image of fans embracing Osimhen alongside the message "Stay With Us, Air-simehn," was displayed in the stands as supporters roared his name throughout the match. The gesture reflected the deep affection the Galatasaray faithful have developed for the prolific striker, whose performances this season have been nothing short of sensational. Osimhen, who joined Galatasaray earlier this season, has quickly established himself as a fan favorite and one of the most dominant forces in Turkish football. He finished the season as the top scorer in the Süper Lig, delivering an impressive goal tally that was instrumental in Galatasaray’s title charge. His contributions also played a vital role in securing the Turkish Cu...

Nigerian sprint sensation Favour Ofili delivered a performance for the ages on Saturday at the Adidas Atlanta City Games, rewriting the record books in the women’s 150m. With a breathtaking time of 15.85 seconds (+2.0 m/s), Ofili not only clinched victory but also shattered the world record , becoming the first woman in history to break the 16-second barrier in the rarely contested event. The previous world best of 16.23 seconds, set by Olympic and World Champion Shaunae Miller-Uibo of The Bahamas in 2018, stood unchallenged for seven years until Ofili’s historic run electrified fans and officials alike at Centennial Olympic Park in downtown Atlanta. Ofili’s explosive performance came as no surprise to those who have followed her ascent in recent years. A standout athlete at Louisiana State University (LSU) and a consistent performer on the international circuit, the 21-year-old has become known for her blend of speed, power, and technical precision. Her latest feat further cements...

  WWE Superstar Nia Jax sustained a serious facial injury during a highly anticipated WWE Women’s Championship match on Friday Night SmackDown, following an in-ring mishap involving a steel chair. The incident occurred during the main event at the Greensboro Coliseum in North Carolina, where Jax was challenging reigning champion Tiffany Stratton in a title match marked by fierce competition and months of personal rivalry. The bout, which was expected to be a defining moment in the women’s division, took a distressing turn late in the contest when a miscalculated chair shot appeared to connect awkwardly, leaving Jax visibly bloodied and shaken. Eyewitnesses and live footage confirmed that the 40-year-old WWE veteran suffered a legitimate laceration to her face. Medical personnel were immediately dispatched to assess her condition as the match was temporarily halted. Though the extent of the injury has yet to be officially disclosed by WWE, early reports suggest it was not part of ...

In a landmark moment for WWE’s women’s division, Becky Lynch and Lyra Valkyria were crowned the new WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions at WrestleMania 41. The high-profile victory came on the grandest stage of them all, marking a major career milestone for both superstars. The electrifying match saw Lynch and Valkyria team up for the first time at a WrestleMania event, and their performance did not disappoint. Facing intense competition, the newly formed duo demonstrated remarkable synergy, seamlessly blending Lynch’s veteran experience with Valkyria’s rising-star energy. Their victory not only added to Lynch’s already decorated legacy but also firmly established Valkyria as one of the fastest-rising talents on the WWE roster. The match reached its climax when Lynch delivered a decisive Manhandle Slam , allowing Valkyria to follow up with her signature Nightwing maneuver. The combination secured the pinfall and ignited a massive ovation from the sold-out crowd at Lincoln Financial Field...

WrestleMania 41 delivered yet another unforgettable night as the Women's World Championship took center stage in a high-stakes Triple Threat Match featuring reigning champion IYO SKY, powerhouse Rhea Ripley, and fan favorite Bianca Belair. The clash of titans lived up to its billing, with IYO SKY emerging victorious in a match that showcased the pinnacle of athleticism, strategy, and resilience in WWE's women’s division. The atmosphere inside Allegiant Stadium was electric as the three superstars made their entrances, each with a legacy and mission to solidify their dominance on the grandest stage of them all. IYO SKY, representing Damage CTRL, walked in as champion with months of momentum and high-pressure defenses under her belt. Rhea Ripley, known for her brute force and unshakable confidence, sought to reclaim gold and prove her supremacy. Meanwhile, Bianca Belair, celebrated for her unmatched strength and agility, was eager to regain her place at the top. From the openin...

Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen continues to dazzle in the Turkish Süper Lig, scoring his 29th goal of the season in a dominant display that reaffirmed his status as one of the most lethal forwards in the league. The 25-year-old, who joined Turkish giants Galatasaray at the beginning of the season in a high-profile transfer, has been in sensational form, playing a pivotal role in the club’s title charge. His latest goal came during a crucial fixture against Trabzonspor , where he once again demonstrated his impeccable timing, composure in front of goal, and physical presence. Osimhen’s 29-goal tally across all competitions places him firmly atop the league’s scoring charts and has made him a fan favorite at Türk Telekom Arena. His consistency in front of goal has been crucial in keeping Galatasaray ahead of fierce rivals Fenerbahçe and Beşiktaş in the title race. Speaking after the match, Galatasaray manager Okan Buruk praised the Nigerian international, stating, “Victor has broug...

  The road to WrestleMania 41 has become even more heated as WWE Superstars Naomi and Jade Cargill have taken their personal and professional feud to the next level, trading fierce words ahead of their highly anticipated clash on the grandest stage of them all. Naomi, a former Women’s Champion known for her athleticism and electrifying charisma, did not hold back in her latest comments about Cargill. In a candid interview, she labeled Cargill "a snake and an opportunist," accusing her of manipulating situations to climb the ranks in WWE. Naomi claims that once she removed Cargill from the title picture, she was finally able to reclaim her "rightful place as champion" and further strengthen her bond with fellow superstar Bianca Belair. However, Naomi expressed disappointment that her once-close friendship with Belair has since deteriorated. “Bianca won’t even look at me now,” she said. “But that’s fine. I’m doing me now—and Jade better be careful. She doesn’t know...

The boxing community has been left in shock and mourning following the tragic passing of former National and West African light-heavyweight champion, Segun “Success” Olanrewaju, who collapsed and died during a bout in Ghana on Saturday. Olanrewaju, a well-respected figure in Nigerian boxing, was competing in a scheduled fight when he suddenly fell unconscious in the ring. Medical personnel on site rushed to his aid, but despite their efforts, he was pronounced dead shortly after. The exact cause of his death remains unclear, with medical experts expected to conduct an autopsy to determine the circumstances surrounding his collapse. The incident has raised concerns about the health and safety measures in boxing, especially regarding pre-fight medical screenings and emergency response protocols. Born and raised in Nigeria, Olanrewaju was known for his resilience, skill, and dedication to the sport. He earned the moniker “Success” through his impressive career, which saw him claim both...

  In a thrilling encounter, Portugal delivered a commanding 5-2 victory over Denmark, with Gonçalo Ramos putting the final nail in the coffin, securing his team’s dominance in the match. The game, filled with electrifying moments and high-energy play, showcased Portugal’s attacking prowess and resilience, leaving Denmark struggling to keep pace. From the outset, Portugal demonstrated their attacking intent, pressing high and creating multiple scoring opportunities. The Danish defense, initially composed, soon found itself overwhelmed by Portugal’s relentless offensive play. The Portuguese squad, led by their key players, executed a well-coordinated game plan that kept Denmark on the back foot for much of the match. As the goals poured in, Denmark attempted to mount a response, showing flashes of brilliance in their counterattacks. However, their efforts were insufficient to stop Portugal’s march to victory. Gonçalo Ramos, stepping up in a crucial moment, delivered a decisive fif...