Sports
UEFA Okays Five Substitutes for Euro 2020
By Adedapo Adesanya
The Union of European Football Association (UEFA) has announced that five substitutes will be allowed at the Euro 2020 scheduled for this year, as football continues to grapple with the coronavirus pandemic.
In a statement on Wednesday, the European football governing body said the decision to allow five subs at the delayed tournament had been taken as “the rule is already in place for the World Cup qualification matches that will run from March 2021 to March 2022.”
“The reasons for the five-substitutions rule remain valid against the background of national and international football calendars affected by the COVID-19 pandemic,” the statement continued.
UEFA added that the rule would also be in place for the Nations League finals in October and its relegation “play-outs” in March next year.
The move to increase the number of substitutes from three to five has already been implemented in the Champions League and Europa League, as well as some domestic competitions around the continent.
It came about due to the tight scheduling of the 2020/21 season in Europe, which kicked off late as a result of the pandemic which forced a months-long shutdown of the previous campaign.
The Euro 2020 initially meant for the titular year was cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic with the European football governing body moving it by one year to 2021.
The tournament was scheduled to start on June 12, 2020, with matches played across 12 countries from Ireland to Azerbaijan, Russia, Italy and more.
Euro 2020 Matches Schedule
Matchday 1
11 June 2021
Match 1: Turkey vs Italy
Stadio Olympico, Rome, Italy
12 June 2021
Match 2: Wales vs Switzerland
Olympic Stadium, Baku, Azerbaijan
Match 3: Denmark vs Finland
Parken Stadium, Copenhagen, Denmark
Match 4: Belgium vs Russia
Krestovsky Stadium, Saint Petersburg, Russia
13 June 2021
Match 5: England vs Croatia
Wembley Stadium, London, England
Match 6: Austria vs North Macedonia
Arena Nationala, Bucharest, Romania
Match 7: Netherlands vs Ukraine
Johan Cruyff Arena, Amsterdam, Netherlands
14 June 2021
Match 8: Scotland vs Czech Republic
Hampden Park, Glasgow, Scotland
Match 9: Poland vs Slovakia
Aviva Stadium, Dublin, Republic of Ireland
Match 10: Spain vs Sweden
San Mames, Bilbao, Spain
15 June 2021
Match 11: Hungary vs Portugal
Puskas Arena, Budapest, Hungary
Match 12: France vs Germany
Allianz Arena, Munich, Germany
Matchday 2
16 June 2021
Match 13: Finland vs Russia
Krestovsky Stadium, Saint Petersburg, Russia
Match 14: Turkey vs Wales
Olympic Stadium, Baku, Azerbaijan
Match 15: Italy vs Switzerland
Stadio Olympico, Rome, Italy
17 June 2021
Match 16: Ukraine vs North Macedonia
Arena Nationala, Bucharest, Romania
Match 17: Denmark vs Belgium
Parken Stadium, Copenhagen, Denmark
Match 18: Netherlands vs Austria
Johan Cruyff Arena, Amsterdam, Netherlands
18 June 2021
Match 19: Sweden vs Slovakia
Aviva Stadium, Dublin, Republic of Ireland
Match 20: Croatia vs Czech Republic
Hampden Park, Glasgow, Scotland
Match 21: England vs Scotland
Wembley Stadium, London, England
19 June 2021
Match 22: Hungary vs France
Puskas Arena, Budapest, Hungary
Match 23: Portugal vs Germany
Allianz Arena, Munich, Germany
Match 24: Spain vs Poland
San Mames, Bilbao, Spain
Matchday 3
20 June 2021
Match 25: Italy vs Wales
Stadio Olympico, Rome, Italy
Match 26: Switzerland vs Turkey
Olympic Stadium, Baku, Azerbaijan
21 June 2021
Match 27: Ukraine vs Austria
Stadio Olympico, Rome, Italy
Match 28: North Macedonia vs Netherlands
Johan Cruyff Arena, Amsterdam, Netherlands
Match 29: Russia vs Denmark
Parken Stadium, Copenhagen, Denmark
Match 30: Finland vs Belgium
Krestovsky Stadium, Saint Petersburg, Russia
22 June 2021
Match 31: Croatia vs Scotland
Hampden Park, Glasgow, Scotland
Match 32: Czech Republic vs England
Wembley Stadium, London, England
23 June 2021
Match 33: Sweden vs Poland
Aviva Stadium, Dublin, Republic of Ireland
Match 34: Slovakia vs Spain
San Mames, Bilbao, Spain
Match 35: Portugal vs France
Puskas Arena, Budapest, Hungary
Match 36: Germany vs Hungary
Allianz Arena, Munich, Germany
ROUND OF 16
26 June 2021
Round of 16 tie 1: Runner-up Group A vs Runner-up Group B
Johan Cruyff Arena, Amsterdam, Netherlands
Round of 16 tie 2: Winner Group A vs Runner-up Group C
8pm BST
Wembley Stadium, London, England
27 June 2021
Round of 16 tie 3: Winner Group C vs 3rd Group D/E/F
Puskas Arena, Budapest, Hungary
Round of 16 tie 4: Winner Group B vs 3rd Group A/D/E/F
San Mames, Bilbao, Spain
28 June 2021
Round of 16 tie 5: Runner-up Group D vs Runner-up Group E
Parken Stadium, Copenhagen, Denmark
Round of 16 tie 6: Winner Group F vs 3rd Group A/B/C
Arena Nationala, Bucharest, Romania
29 June 2021
Round of 16 tie 7: Winner Group D vs Runner-up Group F
Aviva Stadium, Dublin, Republic of Ireland
Round of 16 tie 8: Winner Group E vs 3rd Group A/B/C/D
Hampden Park, Glasgow, Scotland.
QUARTER-FINALS
2 July 2021
Quarter-final 1: Round of 16 tie 6 winner vs Round of 16 tie 5 winner
Krestovsky Stadium, Saint Petersburg, Russia
Quarter-final 2: Round of 16 tie 4 winner vs Round of 16 tie 2 winner
Allianz Arena, Munich, Germany.
3 July 2021
Quarter-final 3: Round of 16 tie 3 winner vs Round of 16 tie 1 winner
Olympic Stadium, Baku, Azerbaijan.
Quarter-final 4: Round of 16 tie 8 winner vs Round of 16 tie 7 winner
Stadio Olimpico, Rome, Italy.
SEMI-FINALS
July 6 2021
Semi-final 1: Quarter-final 2 winner vs Quarter-final 1 winner
Wembley Stadium, London, England.
July 7 2021
Semi-final 2: Quarter-final 4 winner vs Quarter-final 3 winner
Wembley Stadium, London, England.
FINAL
July 11 2021
Final: Semi-final 1 winner vs Semi-final 2 winner
Wembley Stadium, London, England.
Sports
Unveiling the Thrill of Online Casinos: Slots, Games, and More
The innovation of online casinos has transformed how people enjoy leisure and gaming activities. From anywhere and at any time, online casinos have opened their doors to literally everyone, ensuring that the most convenient and exciting kinds of entertainment are within reach.
Whether spinning the reels in popular slot games or plotting out the next move in poker, online casinos bring a virtual get-away like none other. For a deeper understanding of strategies, tips, and insights, one can look to resources such as blog.20bet.com, which provides very valuable information to make your gaming experience even better. Now, let’s get a closer look at the fascinating world of online casinos.
Online Casino Evolution
The journey of online casinos began in the mid-1990s with the advent of the Internet. Fast forward to today, and the industry has mushroomed into a multi-billion-dollar global phenomenon. But to what can its phenomenal popularity be attributed?
Ease of Access and Convenience
One of the major reasons why online casinos have prospered is the convenience they offer. It means that with a smartphone, tablet, or computer, players can play any time, anywhere.
Multitude of Games
Unlike land-based casinos, online casinos offer a plethora of games on their roster. From classic table games like blackjack and roulette, to creative slots with engaging themes, there’s something for every gamer’s taste.
Slot Games: Entertainment for All
Slot games are the most enjoyed amusement in the world of online casinos. The simplicity of the game, combined with appealing graphics and lucrative bonuses, has made it a favorite both for amateur and professional players.
Why Slots Are a Favorite Among People
Easy to Play: Slots are the easiest casino game to play, and there is absolutely no need for experience or strategies.
Creative Themes: Starting from mythology to adventure, slot games are designed with various themes that attract players.
Jackpots: Progressive slots boast of life-altering jackpots which grow with each new spin.
Features of the Best Slots
High RTP: Games with high RTP percentages offer a very good chance of winning.
Bonus Rounds: Look out for slots offering free spins, multipliers, and more.
Mobile Compatibility: Make sure it works on your device.
Table Games: Where Strategy and Entertainment Meet
Table games will satisfy those who want to feel some strategy with their luck. In these games, players will need more engagement and are particularly rewarding when well played.
Popular Table Games
Blackjack: A game of skill and strategy, players try to outdo the dealer without going over 21. Roulette: A very exciting game of chance in which gamblers bet on where the ball will land on a spinning wheel. Poker: From Texas Hold’em to Omaha, poker is all about bluffing, strategy, and calculated risks. Tips for Table Games Success Understand the Rules: First, understand the rules and strategies of the game.
Free Games to Practice: Many sites offer free versions to hone your skills.
Bankroll Management: Set limits and stick to them to avoid overspending.
Live Casino Games: Bringing Realism to Your Screen
The introduction of live dealer games has narrowed the gap between traditional casinos and online casino games. In these games, real dealers host the games, and it is broadcast in real-time for an authentic experience right in your living room.
Advantages of Live Dealer Games
Real-Time Interaction: Chat with dealers and other players to create a social atmosphere.
High Stakes: Many live games cater to high rollers looking for more intense gaming sessions.
Variety: Enjoy games like live blackjack, baccarat, and game show-inspired titles like “Crazy Time.”
Bonuses and Promotions: Maximizing Your Experience
Online casinos often attract players with enticing bonuses and promotions. These offers can significantly enhance your gameplay if used wisely.
Common Types of Bonuses
Welcome Bonus: A reward for signing up, often including deposit matches and free spins.
No Deposit Bonus: Get a small bonus without making an initial deposit.
Loyalty Programs: Earn points with every wager and redeem them for rewards.
How to Choose the Best Bonus
Read the Terms and Conditions: Understand the wagering requirements beforehand.
Check the Validity Period: Make sure that the time given by the bonus is sufficient enough to meet its requirements.
Focus on Your Favorite Games: Some bonuses are game-specific. Choose ones that suit your interests.
Responsible Gaming: A Key Aspect of Enjoyment
While online casinos are a source of entertainment, it’s essential to practice responsible gaming to ensure a positive experience.
Tips for Responsible Gaming
Set a Budget: Decide on a spending limit before you start playing.
Take Breaks: Avoid long gaming sessions to maintain a healthy balance.
Know your Limits: Don’t chase losses; it’s better to walk away and try another day.
Tools at the Player’s Aid
Most online casinos include features for self-exclusion, setting deposit limits, and reality checks that may enable responsible gaming.
Future of Online Casinos
With technology Burke, the online casino industry is bound to reach newer heights. Following are a few trends that are going to shape its future:
Virtual Reality Casinos
Just imagine being inside a virtual casino playing games and communicating with other players, as if you were sitting across from each other. This is the reality that VR technology is bringing into being.
Cryptocurrency and Blockchain
Cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin, are becoming increasingly popular. They provide quicker transactions with added security. Fairness in gaming is ensured through the transparency provided by blockchain technology.
Sports
NFF Appoints Former Mali’s Manager Eric Chelle as Super Eagles Coach
By Dipo Olowookere
The former manager of Mali’s national football team, Mr Eric Chelle, has been appointed as the new head coach of Nigeria’s Super Eagles.
The appointment of Mr Chelle was announced on Tuesday night by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).
The first job of the new coach will be to guide the home-base Super Eagles team to victory at the 2024 CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) co-hosted by the trio of Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania from February 1–28, 2025.
He will work with the current Super Eagles B coaching staff, which includes Daniel Ogunmodede, Fidelis Ilechukwu, and Olatunji Baruwa, who successfully guided the team through CHAN qualifiers.
The biennial football tournament is organised by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and sponsored by an oil giant, TotalEnergies.
Mr Chelle would be expected to deploy his tactics to ensure a successful outing of the home-based Super Eagles at the competition and also revive the main team, according to the president of the NFF, Mr Ibrahim Gusau.
“We want whoever takes charge of the team to begin immediately, which is why the same coach will manage the CHAN Eagles.
“This allows us to identify promising home-based players who can contribute to the senior national team,” he stated.
Business Post reports that the new coach was favoured for the new job by the Technical and Development Sub-Committee of the federation and endorsed by the executive committee.
One of his biggest tasks will be to qualify the Super Eagles for the 2026 FIFA World Cup to be hosted by Canada, Mexico and the United States of America (USA).
At the moment, Nigeria occupies fifth position and will play the next qualifiers in two months’ time.
Mr Chelle led the Mali national team to quarterfinals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. He is the latest foreign coach appointed by the NFF to manage the country’s national team.
Sports
Arsenal, Liverpool in Carabao Cup Semifinal Action Live on GOtv
The race for the first silverware of the 2024/25 season intensifies as Premier League leaders Liverpool and second-placed Arsenal will be in Carabao Cup semifinal action this midweek.
Arsenal will host Newcastle United in the first leg at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday, while Liverpool travel to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Wednesday. Both matches will be broadcast live on GOtv Channel 65 at 9 PM.
Fresh from their impressive 2-1 victory over Tottenham on Saturday, Newcastle will aim to build on their momentum and secure a favorable result ahead of the second leg at St. James’ Park. The Magpies have already defeated Arsenal 1-0 earlier this season, and another strong performance could leave the Gunners with a steep hill to climb in the second leg.
Newcastle will be without their influential captain, Bruno Guimarāes due to suspension, while Arsenal battle with illness issues in the squad which has seen Kai Havertz miss the last two matches.
Arsenal, who haven’t lifted the Carabao Cup in 31 years, view this competition as a vital chance for silverware, especially with their league title hopes fading.
On the other side of North London, Tottenham Hotspur face defending champions Liverpool, hoping to avoid a repeat of their 6-3 thrashing by their visitors just 17 days ago. Spurs have managed just one win in their last eight matches at home in all competitions—a narrow 4-3 victory over Manchester United in the quarterfinal. Their last taste of silverware came 17 years ago when they won this competition.
Meanwhile, Liverpool, who have lost just one match all season, are chasing an ambitious quadruple. A victory over Spurs on Wednesday would put them on the brink of securing a spot in the final at Wembley.
Football fans can enjoy all Carabao Cup matches, Premier League, Serie A, Laliga and Champions League action live by reconnecting or upgrading to the GOtv Super Plus package. Simply dial *288# to renew or upgrade your subscription.
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