Sports
Ronnie Hillman, a Super Bowl Champ dies at 31
It is with a heavy heart that Beton.ng reports that former Super Bowl champion and cancer fighter Ronnie Hillman has passed away at the age of 31. Hillman, a running back for the Denver Broncos, had been battling cancer for the last several months. His death was confirmed by his family on Wednesday. Ronnie Hillman was known for his grit and determination, both on and off the field, and will be remembered as an inspirational figure for those affected by cancer.
Ronnie Hillman’s life
Ronnie Hillman was a champion in every sense of the word. Born in San Diego, California, he played football since his early years and eventually made it to the NFL, becoming one of the best running backs of his time. According to stats provided by betting company Bet9ja, one of the premier betting houses in Nigeria with early odds and a range of betting markets, during his four seasons in the league, he won a Super Bowl with the Denver Broncos in 2016 and made two Pro Bowls.
Off the field, Ronnie was a loving father and devoted husband. He is survived by his wife Maria, their daughter Zaniya, and his son from a previous relationship, Riley. His family remembers him as an inspirational role model and an incredible man with a great sense of humor.
During his battle with cancer, Ronnie took part in many charity events and spread awareness of the importance of early detection. He was an inspiration to everyone who met him and showed us all that nothing can stop you from achieving your dreams if you believe in yourself. Ronnie will always be remembered for his courage and strength in the face of adversity.
His career as a football player
Ronnie Hillman was a talented football player who had a successful professional career. He played for the Denver Broncos from 2012 to 2015 and helped them win Super Bowl 50 in 2016. During his four seasons with the team, Hillman rushed for 2,788 yards and 14 touchdowns.
Hillman was then picked up by the Minnesota Vikings for the 2016 season and he was instrumental in their run to the NFC Championship Game that year. He also had a brief stint with the San Diego Chargers in 2017, before joining the New York Giants the following year. Although he was released by the Giants in 2019, Hillman ended his career with 4,287 rushing yards and 21 touchdowns.
Throughout his football career, Ronnie Hillman proved himself as a reliable and versatile running back. His efforts were recognized by both his teammates and coaches and it is clear that he will be sorely missed. In addition to being an impressive footballer, Hillman was also known for his determination and perseverance off the field.
His battle with cancer
Ronnie Hillman’s battle with cancer was a long and hard-fought one. He was diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer in 2019, but never let it get in the way of his life. He continued to pursue his dreams, competing in professional football and even achieving the ultimate goal of winning a Super Bowl title in 2016. His determination and courage during his fight inspired many people around the world.
Despite undergoing countless treatments, surgeries, and therapies, Ronnie’s health gradually deteriorated until he passed away at the age of 31. Despite being so young, Ronnie had already achieved so much, and his death is an immense loss to both the football community and the world at large. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
Fans’ Reaction
Fans have been posting their condolences on social media, expressing shock and sadness at his passing. Many fans have also shared stories of how Hillman inspired them with his courage and determination as he fought cancer.
There are also those who are honoring Hillman’s memory by setting up fundraisers to support cancer research, in his name. These fans want to make sure that the legacy of Hillman lives on and that his courage and strength in fighting this terrible disease are remembered.
It is clear that Ronnie Hillman will be remembered by many for his achievements on the field, as well as his determination in it. His life and courage will be an inspiration to many for years to come. Friends and family of Hillman paid tribute to him on social media, thanking him for the example he set and the joy he brought into their lives. His former teammates spoke out about the incredible person he was both on and off the field, describing him as someone who never stopped giving back to the community even during his fight against cancer.
By Adedapo Adesanya
The Super Falcons of Nigeria have been drawn in Group C with Egypt, Zambia and Malawi for the defence of their Women’s’ Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title in March, which will be hosted again in Morocco.
Last year, the Nigerian team won the record 10th tournament after defeating the host nation, Morocco, 3-2 in a spectacular final after going down 2-0.
The 2026 edition will be played in Morocco from March 17-April 3, eight months after the last tournament.
The last edition slated for 2024 was postponed by a year for logistical reasons as the Confederation of African Football (CAF) could not get interested hosts.
The next edition which will be the 14th edition and Nigeria will be hoping to win the women’s tournament for the 11th time.
Nigeria’s dominance is only rivalled by Equatorial Guinea which won as hosts of the 2008 and 2012 editions. South Africa won the 2022 edition to become the third African nation to ever win the tournament.
The next edition carries added importance because it serves as qualifying for next year’s Women’s World Cup, with the top four finishers taking up Africa’s slots in the global tournament to be hosted by Brazil.
GROUPS
Group A (Rabat Moulay Hassan Stadium): Morocco, Algeria, Senegal, Kenya,
Group B (Rabat Al Madina Stadium): South Africa, Ivory Coast, Burkina Faso, Tanzania
Group C (Casablanca): Nigeria, Zambia, Egypt, Malawi
Group D (Fes): Ghana, Cameroon, Mali, Cape Verde.
By Adedapo Adesanya
The Chairman of BUA Group, Mr Abdul Samad Rabiu, has reaffirmed his commitment to reward the Super Eagles with the promised $500,000 despite losing the semi-final match against Morocco in the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) on Wednesday night.
The Nigerian senior national football team lost the tie against Morocco 4-2 on penalties after both sides failed to break the deadlock after 120 minutes.
In a post on his official Instagram on Thursday, the billionaire industrialist commended the football team for their determination and unity throughout the competition.
Mr Rabiu said the players displayed admirable grit and commitment on the field, adding that although the trophy eluded them, their performance inspired pride and admiration among Nigerians at home and abroad.
“To our brave Super Eagles, You fought with your hearts, gave your all, and showed true courage and determination on the pitch. Though it wasn’t meant to be this time, you have made every Nigerian proud.
“Sometimes, even our best efforts don’t bring the outcome we hope for, but the spirit, passion, and unity you displayed are what truly matter. You left everything on the field, and that is worthy of celebration.
“As a token of appreciation for your remarkable journey and effort, I am still going ahead to fulfill the pledge of $500,000. This is in recognition of your hard work, dedication, and the joy you have brought to our nation.
“Keep your heads high, Super Eagles – the experience, lessons, and spirit will fuel even greater success next time. Nigeria will always be proud of you, and we believe in your future victories!” the statement read.
Nigeria failed to advance to the final of the 2025 AFCON yesterday after losing to Morocco’s Atlas Lions in a tense penalty shootout, a result that sent the North African side through to the final.
Moroccan goalkeeper, Yacine Bounou saved kicks from both Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyemaechi, allowing Youssef En-Nesyri to convert the winning kick and spark wild celebrations inside the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
Nigeria will play Egypt in the bronze medal match on Sunday, January 18 while Morocco will face 2021 winners, Senegal for the chance to win the trophy for the first time in 50 years.
Midweek football delivers decisive moments across three competitions as the Carabao Cup reaches the semi-final in England, Serie A’s title contenders play their games in hand, and the Africa Cup of Nations narrows down to its final two. Fans can follow every fixture live on SuperSport across DStv and GOtv.
Carabao Cup: Semi-Final Second Legs Decide Wembley Places
The Carabao Cup semi-finals conclude with two heavyweight fixtures as clubs push for a place in the final at Wembley.
On Tuesday at 9:00 p.m., Newcastle host Man City at St James’ Park. Newcastle enter the second leg as defending Carabao Cup champions and come into the tie in strong domestic form, having recorded three straight league wins and progressed in the FA Cup after a penalty shootout victory over Bournemouth.
City arrive after a heavy FA Cup win against Exeter City but are still searching for consistency in the league following a run of draws. Both sides have navigated the competition efficiently so far, setting up a finely balanced contest.
Wednesday’s second semi-final sees Chelsea host Arsenal at 9:00 p.m. Chelsea begin the second leg under new manager Liam Rosenior after a convincing FA Cup victory over Charlton, though league form has been less consistent following a recent defeat to Fulham.
Arsenal, meanwhile, arrive as Premier League leaders and remain active in all major competitions this season. Their FA Cup win over Portsmouth maintained momentum as they look to secure a return to Wembley.
Both Carabao Cup semi-final matches air live on SS Premier League (GOtv Ch. 65, DStv Ch. 203).
Serie A: Games in Hand Shape the Title Race
Serie A’s midweek programme features three fixtures involving clubs playing their game in hand, with implications at both ends of the table.
On Wednesday at 6:30 p.m., Napoli host Parma. Napoli were held to a draw by Inter Milan in their previous outing and sit fourth, level on points with Juventus. With other contenders also in action, a win could lift them further up the standings. Parma arrive after a narrow victory over Lecce and continue to look upward from mid-table.
Later on Wednesday at 8:45 p.m., leaders Inter Milan face Lecce at the San Siro. Inter saw their winning run halted by Napoli but remain three points clear at the top. Lecce arrive having suffered consecutive defeats and will be aiming to secure a positive result in a difficult away fixture.
Thursday’s action concludes at 8:45 p.m. as AC Milan travel to face Como. Milan sit second but have been held to back-to-back draws and will be seeking a return to winning form. Como, coached by Cesc Fàbregas, have impressed this season and sit sixth, boasting one of the league’s strongest defensive records.
All Serie A fixtures are broadcast live on SS Africa 2 (GOtv Ch. 64, DStv Ch. 208).
AFCON 2025: Semi-Finals Decide Finalists
The Africa Cup of Nations reaches its penultimate stage with two semi-final clashes scheduled for Wednesday.
Senegal face Egypt at 6:00 p.m. in Tangier in a renewal of a recent AFCON rivalry. Senegal, winners of the 2021 edition, have progressed with control and balance, while Egypt have relied on resilience and decisive moments in the knockout rounds. The matchup once again brings together key figures from both sides as a place in the final is at stake.
Later at 9:00 p.m., Nigeria meet hosts Morocco in Rabat. Nigeria advanced after a disciplined quarter-final performance, while Morocco continue to combine defensive organisation with efficiency in attack. With home support behind them, Morocco face a Nigerian side that has shown attacking consistency throughout the tournament.
Both AFCON semi-finals air live on SS AFCON (GOtv Ch. 59, DStv Ch. 202).
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