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Latest football news

Find here all the latest live football news: results from Ligue 1, La Liga, Premier League, and the biggest European and international competitions. Follow the latest transfers, match summaries, standings, and upcoming fixtures. Don’t miss any of today’s football news on Aballou, your site dedicated to football enthusiasts.

Al Hilal vs Al Hazm Saudi Pro League action
Saudi Pro League

Lineup Spotlight: Salem Al-Dosari Returns as Al Hilal Host Al Hazm in Saudi Pro League Showdown

Al Hilal coach Simone Inzaghi reveals the starting lineup as they welcome Al Hazm in the Saudi Pro League. Salem Al-Dosari returns from injury to bolster the attack while Yassine Bono misses out, with Mohammed Al-Rubaei starting in goal. Theo Hernandez is suspended and Darwin Nunez starts on the bench. Top of the table Al Hilal seek to extend their undefeated run, while Al Hazm sit in 11th ahead of kickoff. The match takes place at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh.

Juventus' Dušan Vlahović speeds up recovery, eyeing a February return; could influence January mercato as plans shift.
mercato

Vlahović’s February Focus: Juventus’ Market Moves Redefined by a Comeback

Dušan Vlahović is reportedly nearing a return for Juventus after left adductor surgery in December. Early indications point to a faster-than-expected rehab, with a potential February appearance against Inter Milan. If true, Juve could pause their January hunting for a striker and reassess options like Artem Dovbyk, Lorenzo Lucca, or Alexander Sørloth. His contract runs until June 2026, after which a free departure is possible if no renewal is agreed. The situation could reshape Juventus’ mercato trajectory in the short term.

Nigeria celebrates bonus payout before AFCON quarterfinal against Algeria
AFCON 2025

Nigeria Bows to Strike Threats Ahead of Algeria Clash, Promises Bonuses

Nigeria’s government capitulated to players’ strike threats, ensuring bonuses are paid ahead of Friday’s Africa Cup of Nations quarterfinal against Algeria. The move comes after players threatened to skip training and travel to Marrakech. Officials insisted the payments would be processed promptly, with currency exchanges simplified. Nigeria arrives in Marrakech seeking a spot in the semifinals after a strong run to the last eight.

Cameroon coach speaks ahead of AFCON quarterfinal against Morocco
AFCON

Referees Won’t Decide AFCON: Cameroon’s Coach Vows to Play the Game, Not the Whistle Against Morocco

Cameroon’s head coach Davide Bajò states their aim is to win and keep advancing in the Africa Cup of Nations as they face host Morocco in the quarterfinal. He dismisses fears of refereeing bias, insisting the focus must be on what happens on the pitch. He emphasizes the importance of technical and tactical play over officiating decisions. He also acknowledges Morocco’s strength and expresses confidence in his young squad.

Pinto Matheus Al Nassr goalkeeper Genoa transfer
transfer

Brazilian Keeper on the Brink: Pinto Matheus Poised for Genoa Switch

Pinto Matheus, the Al Nassr goalkeeper, is close to a January move after losing favor with his trainer. Genoa are reportedly close to signing him, with Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio citing advanced talks. The transfer would shake up the Saudi–Italian football dynamic as Pinto seeks a starting role and Brazil World Cup inclusion. The update suggests Genoa sees him as the ideal option to bolster their goalkeeping this season.

Miguel Soler discusses Real Madrid vs Atletico Madrid ahead of the Spanish Super Cup in Jeddah.
Spanish Super Cup

Derby in Jeddah: Soler Says Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid Are Cut From the Same Cloth

Miguel Soler, former Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid star, weighs in on the upcoming Jeddah derby. He argues both sides are evenly matched this season, with Real Madrid still finding rhythm under Xabi Alonso. He notes Atletico's defensive resilience but lack of finishing, while suggesting Gonzalo Garcia could be the key substitute in Mbappe’s absence. The piece also cites AS and outlines how these factors shape expectations for the Spanish Super Cup.

István Kovács, a Romanian referee, will oversee Al-Nassr vs Al-Qadisiyah in the Saudi Pro League, with a Romanian-Saudi VAR crew and a history of 1-1 draws in past meetings.
Saudi Pro League

When a Romanian Whistle Steals the Spotlight: Al-Nassr vs Al-Qadisiyah

Saudi football authorities appoint match officials for Thursday’s Roshen Pro League Round 14. The spotlight falls on the Al-Nassr vs Al-Qadisiyah clash, officiated by István Kovács of Romania, with a Romanian-Saudi VAR crew. Kovács has a peculiar history with these clubs, often ending meetings in draws rather than decisive wins. The piece traces Kovács’ prior assignments and notable 1-1 results dating back to 2012, including clashes against Hajer, Al-Hilal, Al-Khaleej, and Damac. Expect a game where discipline and timing could tilt the scales just enough for a point, or perhaps a surprise late swing.

Morocco Cameroon AFCON 2025 match Getty Images Rabat
AFCON2025

AFCON 2025 Quarterfinal Showdown: Morocco vs Cameroon — Where to Watch and How to Stream

Morocco faces Cameroon in a high-stakes AFCON 2025 quarterfinal at Rabat's Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium. The Atlas Lions aim to push toward the semifinals after a late winner against Tanzania, while Cameroon arrive buoyed by a dramatic 2-1 win over South Africa. This clash is being billed as an early final, pitting two continental powerhouses against a backdrop of passionate support. The guide below covers TV channels and online options to watch the match.

Abdul Wahid Al-Sayed resigns as Bank Al Ahly football director amid Amr El-Gazar transfer talks
transfer

Off-field shake-up: Bank Al Ahly accepts football director’s resignation amid Amr El-Gazar transfer whispers

Bank Al Ahly announced the acceptance of Abdul Wahid Al-Sayed’s resignation from the football director role. The club credited his significant contributions and expressed best wishes for his future. The move comes as Amr El-Gazar’s potential transfer to Al Ahly is being discussed with the club alongside the Bank Al Ahly administration. The situation signals a strategic reshuffle while negotiations continue behind the scenes, with football fans curious about the next chapter.

Demiral crowd role in Clasico goal
Saudi Pro League

The Clasico Comeback: Demiral's Last-Gasp Goal and the Crowd's Secret Weapon

Turkish defender Merih Demiral reveals the behind-the-scenes moments of his decisive goal in the Saudi Clasico. Al-Ahli Jeddah rallied from a 0-3 deficit to draw 3-3 with Al Hilal, with Demiral striking the final goal in stoppage time. He highlights the fans' role, recalling their energy and his teammates' reactions. He also shares light-hearted reflections on how often he replays the moment and how the crowd fuels belief in a comeback.

Egyptian Tennis Federation statement on Hajar Abdelkader Nairobi Open
Nairobi Open

Egyptian Tennis Federation Denies Official Involvement in Nairobi Controversy Surrounding Hajar Abdelkader

After a puzzling showing at the Nairobi Open, the Egyptian Tennis Federation publicly disavows any connection to player Hajar Abdelkader. Abdelkader is said to be unaffiliated with the federation and entered the event on a wildcard invitation arranged by the Kenyan Tennis Association. The federation states it had no role in nominating, approving, or facilitating her entry. The incident has sparked global media commentary, prompting questions about governance and international invitations.

Al Ittihad vs Al Khlood in the Saudi Pro League 2025-2026 TV channels and online streaming
Saudi Pro League

Al Ittihad vs Al Khlood: Where to watch the Saudi Pro League 2025-2026 showdown and how to stream it online

Al Ittihad heads to Buraydah to face Al Khlood in a Saudi Pro League clash. Ittihad sit sixth with 23 points, while Al Khlood are 12th with 12 points, both aiming for a win to climb the table. The game takes place at King Abdullah Sports City on January 9, 2026, kicking off at 20:30 local time. This guide covers where to watch on TV and how to stream online, including the Eight network’s offering and a handy VPN tip for abroad fans.

Al Nassr vs Al Qadsiah in the Saudi Pro League Getty Images
Saudi Pro League

Breaking the Drought: Nassr’s Comeback Quest Against Al Qadsiah

Nassr faces a daunting test as memories of past defeats haunt their Saudi Pro League clash with Al Qadsiah. Across 48 prior meetings, Nassr has lost 15 times, but a string of late wins for Qadsiah adds pressure. The match is part of Round 14, with Nassr hoping to rebound after a draw and a loss in recent rounds. Historic streaks against rivals like Al Hilal and Al Ahli amplify the stakes as Jorge Jesus seeks a positive result.

Dani Ceballos trains as goalkeeper before Madrid derby in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Spanish Super Cup

Goalkeeper Gags and Derby Dreams: Real Madrid's Surprising Training Ahead of the Madrid Derby

Real Madrid travels to Saudi Arabia to face Atletico Madrid in the Spanish Super Cup semi-final. A light-hearted training clip shows Dani Ceballos stepping into goal, offering a moment of levity before the duel. The match is streamed exclusively on the Eight app, as Madrid seeks revenge after a 5-2 defeat in La Liga at the Metropolitano. Barcelona’s 5-0 win against Athletic Bilbao on the same venue raises the stakes for the final. Xabi Alonso’s side hope to lift the trophy and avenge their earlier setback.

Kevin Keegan cancer diagnosis England football legend
football

Kevin Keegan Battles Cancer: A Football Legend’s Wake-Up Call and the World’s Uplifting Messages

An English football icon, Kevin Keegan, has been diagnosed with cancer and will start treatment after hospital tests. The announcement followed his admission for ongoing abdominal symptoms, as reported by BBC. Clubs from across English football issued messages of support, highlighting the community’s solidarity. Keegan’s career spanned Liverpool, Newcastle United, and Hamburger SV, and he later coached several clubs and the England national team. The football world comes together to wish him a swift recovery and to remind us that even legends aren’t invincible, just highly caffeinated and forever loved.

Barça vs Bilbao Spanish Super Cup semi-final: eight-second rule spotlight
Spanish Super Cup

Barca Crowned in a 5-0 Masterclass as a Referee Sparks a Rule Debate

Barcelona routed Athletic Bilbao 5-0 in the Spanish Super Cup semi-final in Saudi Arabia, securing a final berth. A controversial moment saw Bilbao’s goalkeeper hold the ball for about 20 seconds, reigniting the eight-second rule discussion. The update to Law 12 was trialed in 2024/25 to curb time-wasting, with a corner awarded to the opposition when exceeded. The incident sparked renewed debates on refereeing and enforcement in modern football. And yes, football still finds time for a light joke or two.

Iñaki Williams crowd reaction in Saudi Arabia during the Spanish Super Cup
Spanish Super Cup

Saudi Fans Roar Back at Bilbao Captain Williams After Cross-Play Clash

A social and sporting clash unfolds as Iñaki Williams faces a hostile Saudi crowd after criticizing the Spanish Super Cup’s move to Saudi Arabia. Barcelona advances to the final with a dominant 5-0 win over Athletic Bilbao. Williams’ remarks trigger a vociferous reception in King Abdullah Sports City, highlighting the tournament’s controversy. The piece also draws a parallel to Toni Kroos’ 2024 critique of the Saudi league. A light, humorous closer keeps the tone balanced amid the heat of the moment.