Didier Deschamps concludes 14-year tenure as France coach, Zinedine Zidane poised to take over
via Punch Nigeria3 min read
Didier Deschamps is set to conclude his 14-year tenure as France's coach after the World Cup third-place play-off against England. Deschamps, 57, aimed for a third World Cup triumph but France was defeated by Spain in the semi-finals, ending their bid for a third consecutive final. Reflecting on his time, Deschamps stated, "I had the privilege of experiencing moments that were magical, and others that were difficult. But life goes on. I’m a positive person, and I know things will be good, too. It’s the best thing that ever happened to me." He led France to victory in the 2018 World Cup and has guided the team to at least the semi-finals in five of his seven major competitions. His coaching career also saw disappointments, including losses in the Euro 2016 final and the 2022 World Cup final. Zinedine Zidane, Deschamps’ former teammate and a former Real Madrid star, is widely expected to be named the next head coach. Zidane, 54, has expressed his dream of managing France and has been preparing for the role since leaving Real Madrid in 2021. French Football Federation president Philippe Diallo noted the need for a leader who "ticks every box and who everyone in France can get behind."
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Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, swore in two commissioners, 20 permanent secretaries, and members of the Governing Council of the Edo State College of Health Sciences and Technology. A key highlight was the appointment of Melody Omosah as the state's first visually impaired permanent secretary. Governor Okpebholo stated on his official Facebook page that this appointment signifies a historic milestone, emphasizing that ability, competence, and character should define opportunity, not disability. The governor also appointed Martin Oli, a member of the Igbo community, as a commissioner, highlighting his administration's commitment to inclusiveness. Okpebholo reiterated his administration's dedication to building an inclusive government where merit, excellence, and equal opportunity are prioritized over ethnicity, background, or personal connections, and to creating opportunities for all qualified individuals.
Nana Otedola, mother of actress Temi Otedola, expressed surprise upon learning that her daughter and singer Oluwatosin Ajibade, known as Mr Eazi, were expecting their first child shortly after their wedding. Speaking on the couple's How Far podcast, Nana initially anticipated that the newlyweds would enjoy a few years of married life before starting a family. Temi reminded her mother that she and Mr Eazi had already dated for five years before marrying. Nana stated that she has since learned not to be presumptuous about the couple's decisions. She also believes that Temi and Mr Eazi complement each other well. Temi and Mr Eazi announced their pregnancy in May, approximately nine months after their private wedding in Reykjavík, Iceland. The couple, who got engaged in April 2022 after four years of dating, married in August 2025 at Hallgrímskirkja Church in Reykjavík. Temi cited Mr Eazi being her best friend as the reason for their marriage, while Mr Eazi noted that Temi helped him understand genuine love and valued his time and effort over material gifts.
Paul University, Awka, Anambra State, has suspended Ven. Cornelius Eze, an Anglican priest and Practical Biology Technologist, following allegations of serious sexual misconduct involving him and a female student. The university's management announced the indefinite suspension on July 17, 2026, stating it is a preliminary administrative measure pending the outcome of internal disciplinary processes and investigations by law enforcement agencies. The allegations were brought to the university's attention on July 14, 2026, prompting immediate intervention and involvement of security agencies to prevent a breakdown of order among students. The university emphasized its commitment to integrity and a safe learning environment, stating it does not condone sexual harassment or misconduct and will deal with any culpable individuals according to due process. The institution also noted that counseling and therapeutic support are being provided to the affected student and other community members, urging the public to avoid speculation.