The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 was never short on drama — and perhaps it will be remembered just as much for its refereeing controversies as for the football on the pitch. The quarter-finals, in particular, became a flashpoint for questions about officiating standards, VAR usage, referee appointments and the very credibility of continental football governance. From Nigeria vs Algeria to Cameroon vs Morocco, and controversies in Mali vs Senegal, the referees were thrust into the spotlight — often for all the wrong reasons. The debates that followed didn’t just revolve around isolated decisions; they struck at the heart of how fairness, transparency and even respect are perceived in African football. Quarter-Final Showdowns and the Sparks of Dispute Nigeria vs Algeria (2–0): A Penalty That Never Came Match result: Nigeria defeated Algeria 2–0 to reach the AFCON semi-finals. Yet, the focus after this match wasn’t only on the football. It was on the refereeing narrative that domina...
Pep Guardiola claims he has not ruled out signing a new contract with Manchester City. Guardiola's current contract is set to expire next summer, and he appeared to imply after leading City to a fourth consecutive Premier League triumph in May that next season could be his last at the club.
However, the former Barcelona and Bayern Munich manager hinted on Friday that his stint at the Etihad could be extended for a tenth year. During the club's pre-season tour of New York, the Spaniard discussed his future ahead of City's friendly versus AC Milan at Yankee Stadium. "When I leave, I will say I'm leaving, but I didn't say that," Guardiola, who has led City to six Premier League crowns, two FA Cups, and a maiden Champions League title, told reporters.
"We'll see what happens. However, I will not rule out extending my contract. I'd like to stay because I really want to. "Nine years at the same club is an eternity. So I want to make sure it's the proper decision. Not only for me, but for the club and the players. "They continue to operate as they have for the past eight years, regardless of the opposition or the tournament, and this is what I need to see. I will not rule out extending my contract. I'd like to stay because I really want to.
Pep Guardiola
"I am certain that in eight more years, I will not stay! Both players and managers benefit from a refresher. "At the same time, we have had success and continue to win Premier Leagues, making it to the final stages, and competing in competitions such as the Champions League. "This is how I feel right now." When asked if he would like to travel to America next summer for the projected 32-team FIFA Club World Cup, Guardiola replied, "I would love to. "Yes, I would love to."
The 53-year-old also addressed the persistent talk surrounding goalkeeper Ederson, who has been linked with a move to the Saudi Pro League in recent months. Guardiola expressed doubt on Wednesday while reflecting on the status of the 30-year-old Brazil international, who has two years left on his contract. Two days later, though, the City manager was more open regarding his first-choice goalkeeper's future.
Guardiola added: "I sincerely hope Eddie will stay with us. "I'd want for him to stay. "I can't picture our processes succeeding in the last few seasons without him. He is a key figure in the locker room.
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