Sports
Younes Rachidi Banned from Tennis for Match-Fixing
The conviction of Moroccan Younes Rachidi for 135 charges of match-fixing has struck a chord with all sports fans. His lifetime ban from professional sports came as a surprise, even to the top sports betting sites in the Middle East. Although Rachidi was far from a household name, having never reached the top 1,000 rankings, he was a regular on the ITF Futures Tour, the amateur tennis circuit, where he managed to reach his highest doubles ranking of 475 on the ATP list.
The Investigation
The International Tennis Federation (ITF) conducted a thorough investigation and issued the ban in August 2021. In addition to the permanent restriction, The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) also imposed a $34,000 fine for the 135 violations of TACP. Following the joint investigations by Belgian law enforcement and the ITIA, it was also discovered that Rachidi had been involved in match-fixing together with two Algerian players who also received a ban.
After a thorough investigation, it was revealed that Rachidi had been actively involved in fixing match results in Spain, Portugal, Egypt, and Nigeria. Those activities included losing sets, games, and occasionally entire matches, in order to manipulate the results.
The Verdict
In her ruling, Independent Anti-Corruption Hearing Office Janie Soublière concluded that all allegations of the report were factually true. Consequently, Younes Rachidi was permanently barred from attending, coaching, or taking part in any tennis event recognized or authorized by the tennis governing bodies. The Anti-Corruption Hearing Office also imposed sanctions on the two Algerian players who were found to be accomplices in the match-fixing scheme while also implying that these offenses are despicable for any tennis player.
Match-Fixing: A Serious Offense in Sports
Interfering in a game is a major breach of professional sports etiquette, particularly in tennis. The International Tennis Federation (ITF) has a zero-tolerance policy for match-fixing and any report of inappropriate behavior is taken very seriously. The integrity of the sport is upheld by the ITF, which investigates all criminal complaints, no matter how small or large the infraction may be.
Every sporting competition is built on fair play, which provides all participants with an equal chance to win. Players begin the game with a competitive spirit and a desire to win. They strive to keep the game’s quality high while providing spectators with an exciting and unpredictable match.
That is why any form of cheating in professional sports must be strongly condemned by organizations like the ITF. According to a statement made by the ITF’s integrity unit, any other individuals who may have been involved in the match-fixing activities will be the subject of further investigation.
The tennis ethics regulatory bodies implied that the 135 offenses committed by the Moroccan player in 2017 and 2018 involved violations of the Tennis Anti-Corruption Programs (TACP).
Rule D.1 states that anyone playing professional tennis is prohibited to “directly or indirectly, contrive or attempt to manipulate the result or any other element during competition”. And yet, the former tennis player never ceased to break this rule of TACP, applicable to all professional tennis players.
The ITIA was created by the international governing organizations of the sport to manage issues that might affect the integrity of sports. It has proven its commitment to preserving tennis’ honesty by taking decisive actions against those who manipulate match results.
Although the situation with Younes Rachidi is unfortunate, it serves as a warning to other competitors showing that cheating has serious consequences and that the ITF will not hesitate to take legal action and punish offenders if proven guilty.
Final Thoughts
The Younes Rachidi scandal has emphasized the importance of upholding the principles of sportsmanship and fair play in professional sports. The ITF’s decision to fine Rachidi $34,000 and forever ban him from stepping on a professional tennis court serves as a warning that match-fixing is a serious breach of sports ethics and will not be tolerated under any circumstance.
Unfortunately, sports controversies are a fact of life, but they should not be taken lightly. Such behavior not only erodes the competitive nature of the game but also damages the reputation of the sport and the trust of the fans in the athletes. This case is a stark reminder that any sports game must preserve its fairness in order to earn the respect of fans and fellow players.
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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