Nigeria’s Super Falcons overcame a two-goal first-half deficit to defeat host nation Morocco 3–2 in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations final on July 26, 2025, at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat. The win secured Nigeria’s record-extending 10th WAFCON title and reaffirmed their status as the dominant force in African women’s football. The thrilling contest also highlighted the rise of Morocco as a new power in the women’s game.

Morocco began the match with intensity and control, capitalizing on home advantage. Ghizlane Chebbak opened the scoring in the 12th minute with a composed finish, followed by a second goal from Sanaa Mssoudy in the 24th minute. The Atlas Lionesses looked well on their way to a historic maiden title as they controlled much of the first half, leaving Nigeria visibly shaken.

However, the second half brought a different story. Nigeria responded with determination and tactical adjustments. Esther Okoronkwo pulled one back from the penalty spot in the 64th minute. Just minutes later, Folashade Ijamilusi leveled the score, sparking belief within the Nigerian camp. Then, in dramatic fashion, Joe Echegini scored the winning goal in stoppage time to complete a remarkable comeback.

The victory not only crowned Nigeria as champions once again but also demonstrated the team’s resilience and experience in high-pressure matches. For Morocco, the loss was painful but their run to the final has been widely praised as a breakthrough moment. The final showcased the growing strength and competitiveness of women’s football on the African continent, promising even more compelling tournaments in the years to come.

FC Barcelona President Joan Laporta has confirmed that the club does not anticipate making any additional signings during the current summer transfer window. Speaking in an interview with Mundo Deportivo, Laporta stated that the squad is in good shape and that head coach Hansi Flick is content with the current options available. The president emphasized that Barcelona’s focus will now shift toward internal development rather than further additions from the market.

“In principle, there will be no more new signings this summer,” Laporta said. “We have a good squad, and the coach wants to strengthen the first team with players from the reserves.” His comments come amid speculation linking Barcelona to several targets, including a potential move for a new midfielder and a right back. However, financial constraints and La Liga’s salary cap regulations continue to restrict the club’s transfer flexibility.

Laporta’s remarks also highlight the club’s renewed commitment to its youth system. With a number of promising talents emerging from La Masia, including Lamine Yamal, Pau Cubarsí, and Marc Guiu, Barcelona aims to promote and develop young players rather than spend heavily in the transfer market. This strategy aligns with the club’s long-standing philosophy and the current leadership’s desire to operate within sustainable financial limits.

While fans may be hoping for late surprises before the window closes, Laporta’s comments suggest that Barcelona’s business for the summer is effectively complete. Unless an unexpected opportunity arises or player sales free up significant resources, the Catalan giants will head into the new season relying on squad continuity and internal growth. The challenge for Flick will be to blend experience with emerging talent as Barcelona look to reclaim domestic and European success.

Chelsea are actively working behind the scenes to secure two of the most exciting young talents in European football: Jorrel Hato of Ajax and Xavi Simons of RB Leipzig. The club is holding parallel negotiations with both players’ representatives and their respective clubs as they look to bolster their squad ahead of the new season. Sources close to the negotiations confirm that Chelsea have made significant progress in both pursuits, with personal terms nearly finalized.

For Jorrel Hato, the deal appears to be further along. The 18-year-old Dutch defender has already agreed to personal terms with Chelsea, signaling his strong desire to make the move to Stamford Bridge. Talks between Chelsea and Ajax are ongoing regarding the transfer fee, with the Dutch club expected to demand a significant sum for one of their brightest academy graduates. Hato is known for his composure on the ball and maturity beyond his years, and he is seen as a long-term solution in central defense.

Meanwhile, Chelsea’s pursuit of Xavi Simons is described as being at an advanced stage. The versatile midfielder, who impressed during his loan spell at Leipzig last season, is open to joining Chelsea, and discussions over a potential permanent move are continuing. Although Simons is officially contracted to Paris Saint-Germain, Leipzig retain a degree of involvement due to a prior agreement, which complicates the negotiation process. Still, Chelsea remain confident they can reach a suitable arrangement.

These moves signal a clear shift in Chelsea’s recruitment strategy, prioritizing elite young talent with high ceilings and resale value. With Hato and Simons both eager to join, the club’s next hurdle will be agreeing on fees with Ajax and Leipzig. If successful, these signings could reinforce Chelsea’s long-term project under manager Enzo Maresca and provide additional energy and creativity across the backline and midfield. Fans will be watching closely as talks continue in the coming days.