Sports
St Petersburg Prepares to Hold UEFA Euro 2020 Matches
By Kester Kenn Klomegah
Saint Petersburg, Russia’s second-largest city, has prepared all the necessary infrastructure and facilities for hosting UEFA Euro 2020 matches this June and through July, according to information emerging from the office of City Governor Alexander Beglov.
The organizers assured that they would try to do everything to make the tournament as safe as possible. For those who have purchased tickets for football matches, it is enough to obtain a Fan ID. But before entering Russian territory, they will need to pass a coronavirus test. Fans who come to Russia for the European Championship will be able to stay in the country until July 12.
In addition to maintaining all the required security measures during the tournament, the City Administration also assured that the matches would be organized with strict adherence to safety measures for preventing the spread of the coronavirus. These measures worked out by the steering committee within the requirements set by the World Health Organization (WHO).
“As far as general security is concerned, our law enforcement services work very well. They will have a command centre directly at the stadium,” Alexander Beglov told local Russian media in late May. “Training is underway, and we have the understanding of what to do and how it should be done. We have the experience of hosting various tournaments.”
In and around St. Petersburg, the venue for the matches, the playing fields have been prepared. “We have the main arena, and we have prepared three more venues – the Petrovsky and Turbostroitel stadiums, and the facility in Zelenogorsk, where teams will train. There will be fan zones on Konyushennaya Square and Palace Square. Besides, another fan zone will be set up near the Yubileyny (Sports Palace),” he said,” adding that, “All the necessary infrastructure is ready.”
In March last year, UEFA announced a decision to postpone the 2020 UEFA Euro Cup for exactly one year as a preventive measure against the ongoing global spread of the novel coronavirus.
St. Petersburg was among the 12 cities initially proposed in Europe to host the European championship’s matches. It was granted the right to host three group stage matches and one of the quarterfinals of the UEFA Euro Cup. This was after Dublin (Ireland) and Bilbao (Spain) pulled out from the organization of the European football games citing anti-COVID-19 measures.
Overall, Russia’s second-largest city is scheduled to host the following matches: Belgium vs Russia (June 12), Poland vs Slovakia (June 14), Finland vs Russia (June 16), Sweden vs Slovakia (June 18), Finland vs Belgium (June 21), Sweden vs Poland (June 23) and a quarterfinal on July 2.
According to RIA Novosti report, the Head of the Government of the Russian Federation, Mikhail Mishustin, said that foreign fans would not need Russian visas to attend the European Football Championship in St. Petersburg and that corresponding order was already signed. In addition, UEFA official representatives, staff involved in the preparation and holding of the tournament, athletes and volunteers will get entry documents under the simplified procedure.
In order to attract fans as it was during the FIFA matches, Russia’s diplomatic missions abroad have started informing potential fans of the procedure for entering the Russian Federation during the Championships, specifically, how to obtain personal spectator cards or FAN IDs.
Russia’s diplomatic missions abroad have received FAN ID samples and related pamphlets for fans. FAN IDs allow their holders to enter the Russian Federation multiple times visa-free from May 29, through July 2, and to exit from the Russian Federation multiple times. The visa is provided exclusively free of charge, that is without any payment of fees, from May 29 through July 12, 2021.
The Foreign Ministry has instructed Russia’s diplomatic missions abroad to issue high-priority visas to media representatives, participants in sporting events and certain other categories of foreign citizens planning to take part in the Championships.
During the weekly media briefing, Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova discussed the situation about electronic visas to Russia. “It began with the FIFA World Cup. When football lovers, tourists and fans came to Russia despite spooky stories about Russia in Western media, they were shocked by the difference between what they had read and what they actually saw. They saw that our country is truly interesting, wonderful and spectacular,” she said at the briefing.
She, however, recalled how many people wanted to stay here longer and extended their visas and how many wanted to return. It was at that time that discussions began on the need to take relevant efforts to attract sports fans and change the negative social attitudes and image among foreigners.
The World Cup has left an indelible impression on the memory of many foreign fans who arrived in the country from all over the world. “I think the point here is not about our response to something, but about the desire to show what we really are, our country and give people an opportunity to decide for themselves,” explained Zakharova.
Significant to recall here that at the end of the last FIFA World Cup, President Vladimir Putin said: “We prepared responsibly for this major event and did our best so that fans could immerse themselves in the atmosphere of a magnificent football festival and, of course, enjoy their stay in Russia – open, hospitable, friendly Russia – and find new friends, new like-minded people.”
FIFA World Cup also ran in summer, from June 14 to July 15, in ten (10) different cities in Russia. The foreign fans who received Fan IDs and purchased tickets for the matches went to Russia without visas. After the World Cup, President Putin declared that the Fan ID holders would have the right to visit repeatedly visa-free until the end of that year.
UEFA Euro Cup is set in 11 cities, namely in London (England), Munich (Germany), Rome (Italy), Baku (Azerbaijan), Saint Petersburg (Russia), Bucharest (Romania), Amsterdam (The Netherlands), Budapest (Hungary), Glasgow (Scotland), Copenhagen (Denmark) and Seville (Spain). The European Championship 2020, for the first time, played in different countries. The tournament includes 12 cities in honour of the anniversary of the competition. The European Championship in 2020 marked 60 years.
Sports
SuperSport Festive PL Line-Up Brings Key Title and Top-Four Battles
The Premier League festive schedule delivers a packed Matchday 18 with implications across the table, as Arsenal defend top spot, Manchester City continue their title chase, and Chelsea face in-form Aston Villa. All matches will be broadcast live on SS Premier League (DStv Ch. 203, GOtv Ch. 65).
Friday night action sees Manchester United host Newcastle United at 9:00 p.m. United have slipped back into inconsistency, winning just two of their last eight after a narrow defeat at Aston Villa. Newcastle arrive frustrated after surrendering a two-goal lead in a 2–2 draw with Chelsea. With both sides chasing European places, early pressure is already building.
Saturday begins at 1:30 p.m. as Manchester City travel to the City Ground to face Nottingham Forest. City are in blistering form, winning five straight to close within two points of leaders Arsenal. Forest, hovering above the relegation zone, are coming off a narrow defeat at Fulham and face a stern test against Erling Haaland and the league’s most clinical attack.
At 4:00 p.m., league leaders Arsenal welcome Brighton to the Emirates. Arsenal secured a gritty win at Everton to remain top at Christmas, but Brighton have often proven awkward opponents. With the title race finely balanced, Arsenal will be keen to avoid any slip against a Brighton side fresh from a goalless draw.
Kicking off at the same time, Liverpool host bottom-placed Wolves at Anfield, live on SS Football (GOtv Ch. 61, DStv Ch. 205). Liverpool’s win at Tottenham has reignited their top-four push, while Wolves remain rooted to the bottom after eleven straight defeats. The Reds will be expected to dominate, though the festive schedule allows little room for complacency.
Saturday’s standout fixture follows at 6:30 p.m. as Chelsea host Aston Villa in a heavyweight top-four clash. Villa arrive as the league’s most in-form side, with seven straight wins and recent victories over Arsenal and Manchester United. Chelsea, meanwhile, continue to search for consistency after just one win in five.
The round concludes on Sunday at 5:30 p.m. with Crystal Palace hosting Tottenham. Spurs’ season continues to unravel after another defeat to Liverpool, leaving them 14th. Palace were humbled by Leeds last time out but remain competitive in the top half and will look to capitalise against a Tottenham side short on confidence.
Weekend Highlights
Friday, Dec 26
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Manchester United vs Newcastle United — 9:00 p.m.
Saturday, Dec 27
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Nottingham Forest vs Manchester City — 1:30 p.m.
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Arsenal vs Brighton — 4:00 p.m.
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Liverpool vs Wolves — 4:00 p.m. (SS Football)
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Chelsea vs Aston Villa — 6:30 p.m.
Sunday, Dec 28
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Crystal Palace vs Tottenham — 5:30 p.m.
All matches across Matchday 18 will be shown live on SuperSport on DStv and GOtv. Stream every match live on DStv Stream or GOtv Stream. Don’t forget to also catch all the AFCON games this weekend as well on SS AFCON (DStv ch. 202 and GOtv ch. 59).Upgrade or stay connected via the MyDStv or MyGOtv app, dial *288#, or visit the official websites.
Sports
AFCON to Hold Every Four Years from 2028 as CAF Launches Nations League
By Adedapo Adesanya
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has announced that the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) would be held every four years from 2028.
CAF President, Mr Patrice Motsepe, disclosed that the tournament, which has taken place every two years since 1968, with a one-year gap between the 2012 and 2013 editions, will switch to a four-year cycle after the 2027 AFCON in East Africa.
Mr Motsepe also announced the creation of an African Nations League which will take place annually from 2029.
“We have the most exciting new structure for African football,” Mr Motsepe said.
“I do what is in the interests of Africa. The global calendar has to be significantly more synchronised and harmonised.”
Also, CAF has increased the prize money for the winners of Afcon from $7 million to $10 million.
These decisions came from resolutions made after a meeting of CAF’s executive committee in Morocco before the start of the 2025 edition of the tournament scheduled to start in Rabat on Sunday.
The biennial hosting of AFCON has long caused issues with the football calendar, with the vast majority of recent tournaments held midway through the European club season. However, CAF remained committed to scheduling the tournament every two years.
CAF had made a resolution for AFCON to be held in a June-July slot from 2019 onwards and began its new plan in Egypt that year.
However, the COVID-19 pandemic and weather conditions in host nations in Central and West Africa meant the 2021 and 2023 editions in Cameroon and Ivory Coast respectively were staged in January and February instead.
FIFA’S expanded 32-team Club World Cup was held in June and July this year, forcing CAF to opt for mid-season dates once again.
As a result this year’s AFCON in Morocco will take place over Christmas and the New Year for the first time, with the final on January 18.
The dates for the 2027 edition in Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda are yet to be announced, and that will be swiftly followed by another tournament in 2028 – with the hosts of that edition yet to be decided.
After that, the continent’s biggest tournament will become a quadrennial tournament taking place in the same year as the European Championships.
Mr Motsepe said the decision had been made in conjunction with FIFA president Gianni Infantino and the world governing body’s general secretary Mattias Grafstrom – and that Caf “have to compromise”.
The CAF President said the African Nations League will take place in September, October, and November every year from 2029.
The competition will see all 54 member associates split into four zones, with six nations in the Northern zone and 16 nations in the Eastern, Western and Central and Southern zones.
Matches will be played in September and October, with the champions from each region meeting in November to then decide an overall winner.
Mr Motsepe said the new competition will be “the equivalent of an Afcon every year” and will be held in partnership with Fifa in order to attract top-class sponsors.
“Every year in Africa, the best African players who play in Europe will be with us on the continent,” Motsepe added.
“Every year we will have a competition with 54 African nations with all the best players coming here to play.
“We are going to have a world-class competition every year.”
Sports
BC.Game: A Rising Star in Nigeria’s Betting Scene
BC.Game has quickly gained traction in Nigeria as a prominent online betting platform, offering a unique blend of traditional and modern gaming experiences. Known for its user-friendly interface and innovative features, BC.Game caters to both seasoned bettors and newcomers alike. The platform provides a wide range of betting options, including sports betting, casino games, and its signature blockchain-based games, which set it apart from competitors.
One of BC.Game’s standout features is its commitment to transparency and fairness, leveraging blockchain technology to ensure secure and verifiable transactions. Nigerian users appreciate the platform’s support for local payment methods, making deposits and withdrawals seamless. Additionally, BC Game register offers enticing bonuses and promotions, further enhancing its appeal.
With a growing community of players and a reputation for reliability, BC.Game is carving out a niche in Nigeria’s competitive betting market, attracting users seeking a trustworthy and innovative gaming experience.
Exploring the BC.Game Official Website: Design and Navigation
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BC.Game’s website also emphasizes transparency and trust. Key information, such as terms and conditions, privacy policies, and responsible gaming guidelines, is readily available in the footer section. For new users, the registration process is straightforward, with clear instructions guiding them through account creation.
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BC.Game’s official website is a well-designed, user-centric platform that combines aesthetics with functionality. Its intuitive navigation, responsive design, and focus on user experience make it a standout choice for Nigerian players seeking a reliable and enjoyable online betting environment.
How to Register on BC.Game: A Step-by-Step Guide
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By following these steps, you’ll complete the BC Game register process in just a few minutes. The platform’s user-friendly design ensures a hassle-free experience, even for first-time users.
Bonuses and Promotions on BC.Game for Nigerian Users
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With these bonuses and promotions, BC.Game ensures Nigerian users have plenty of opportunities to maximize their winnings and enjoy a rewarding betting experience. The platform’s transparent terms and clear reward structures make it a top choice for players seeking value and excitement.
BC.Game Sports Betting: A World of Options for Nigerian Players
The sports betting section on BC.Game is a hub of excitement, offering Nigerian players a comprehensive range of sports and betting options. Whether you’re a fan of football, basketball, tennis, or niche sports, BC.Game ensures there’s something for everyone. The platform covers a wide variety of sports, with football being the most popular choice among Nigerian users. Major leagues like the English Premier League, La Liga, and UEFA Champions League are well-represented, alongside local Nigerian leagues. Other sports, such as basketball, cricket, rugby, and even eSports, are also available, catering to diverse interests.
BC.Game provides multiple types of bets to suit different betting styles. Traditional options like match winner, over/under, and handicap betting are staples on the platform. For those seeking more dynamic options, live betting is a standout feature. This allows players to place bets in real-time as the action unfolds, adding an extra layer of thrill to the experience. Additionally, BC.Game offers special bets like player-specific outcomes (e.g., first goal scorer) and combination bets, which allow users to combine multiple selections into a single wager for higher potential payouts. The platform also supports accumulator bets, enabling players to bet on multiple matches or events simultaneously.
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BC.Game Online Casino: A Thrilling Gaming Experience for Nigerian Players
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BC.Game Casino: Top Games from Leading Providers
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With its responsive and professional support service, BC.Game ensures Nigerian players receive timely and effective assistance whenever needed.
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