🗣 Jose Mourinho:

"Okay, this Club World Cup also highlighted a kid who also had a great season at Chelsea, Cole Palmer."

"But this run to the semi-finals reminded me every time I went to the US for pre-season with Real Madrid, with Inter, it reminded me of those games we played there."

"So, I think this World Cup title is only important for Chelsea, as they'll sell a lot of jerseys with the logo there'."

#CFC | #Chelsea | #FIFACWC

Marc Cucurella claimed that Donald Trump 'pocketed' Noni Madueke's FIFA Club World Cup medal before his official move from Chelsea to Arsenal . The new Gunners signing will have a hard time retrieving it. Via GERARDROMERO / JIJANTESFC

Pius Ikedia: The Diminutive Dynamo of Nigerian Football

Pius Nelson Ikedia, born on July 11, 1980, in Lagos, Nigeria, is a retired professional footballer best known for his blistering pace, flair, and creativity on the right flank. Though modest in stature at 1.66 meters, Ikedia’s presence on the pitch was anything but small. His speed, agility, and dribbling ability made him one of Nigeria’s most exciting wingers during his playing years.

Early Career and Rise to Prominence

Ikedia began his football journey on the streets of Lagos and quickly rose through the ranks at Bendel Insurance, a club renowned for grooming local talents. His impressive displays earned him a move to ASEC Mimosas in Ivory Coast, where he further honed his skills and attracted the attention of European scouts.

In 1999, his big break came when Ajax Amsterdam signed him a significant achievement for a young Nigerian footballer at the time. Although he struggled to cement a regular starting spot at the Dutch giants, his speed and technique showed promise, particularly in his early appearances.

European Club Career

Ikedia spent six seasons in the Netherlands, playing for Ajax, Groningen (on loan), RBC Roosendaal, and AZ Alkmaar, among others. Some of his career highlights include:
• Ajax (1999–2005) – 25 league appearances, 2 goals
• Groningen (Loan, 2002–03) – 27 appearances, 1 goal
• RBC Roosendaal – Over two seasons, he played 53 games and scored 5 goals
• AZ Alkmaar & RKC Waalwijk (Loan) – 12 appearances combined

He also had brief spells outside the Netherlands, featuring for Metalurh Donetsk in Ukraine, AZAL in Azerbaijan, and Mağusa Türk Gücü in Northern Cyprus. Ikedia concluded his career playing amateur football in the Netherlands, officially retiring in 2016.

International Career with the Super Eagles

Ikedia was a key figure in the Nigerian national setup in the early 2000s, earning 15 caps and scoring one goal for the Super Eagles between 1997 and 2004.

He represented Nigeria at several major tournaments:
• 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney
• 2002 FIFA World Cup in South Korea and Japan featured in group-stage matches, including high-profile games against Argentina and England
• 2004 African Cup of Nations made appearances in the tournament as Nigeria pushed for continental glory

While not always a first-choice starter, Ikedia brought energy and pace off the bench, often changing the tempo of games.

Health Scare and Resilience

In August 2016, Ikedia suffered a major health scare during an exhibition match in the Netherlands involving former Ajax players. He collapsed on the pitch and was immediately resuscitated. Thankfully, he survived the ordeal and recovered fully a testament to his resilience both on and off the field.

Legacy

Though his name may not be mentioned among the all-time greats of Nigerian football, Pius Ikedia’s career remains a story of talent, determination, and heart. From the dusty fields of Lagos to the iconic stadiums of Europe and international tournaments, he earned his place in the rich tapestry of African football.

Fans will forever remember him for his electric pace, fearless dribbling, and his unwavering passion for the beautiful game.

Chelsea at the semi final
Was their best performance at the FIFA club world cup

Ashleigh Plumptre is a 25-year-old British-Nigerian footballer currently playing for Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia. Born in Leicester, England, on May 8, 1998, she has a unique dual heritage, with a Nigerian father and a British mother. This background significantly influenced her decision to play for the Nigerian national team, the Super Falcons, despite previously representing England at youth level .



Her football journey began at a young age with Asfordby Amateurs, followed by stints at Leicester City, Birmingham City, and Notts County in England. She also played college soccer in the United States for the University of Southern California Trojans. After her college career, she returned to England to play for Leicester City, contributing significantly to their promotion to the Women's Super League .



Plumptre's decision to represent Nigeria has been met with both support and curiosity. She has openly discussed her connection to her Nigerian heritage, emphasizing the importance of family and exploring her roots. Her performances for the Super Falcons, particularly during the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup, have solidified her status as a fan favorite. Her father, Tim Plumptre, and grandfather, Harry Dotun Plumptre, are of Yoruba descent, further strengthening her ties to Nigeria .



Beyond her impressive football career, Plumptre maintains a relatively private personal life. She has an estimated net worth of $5 million, a testament to her success both on and off the field. Her younger sister, Bayleigh Bisi Plumptre, also shares her Nigerian heritage and is a drummer. Ashleigh's story is one of talent, dedication, and a strong connection to her roots .