🇳🇬NigeriaWest Africa
Donald Trump expresses concern over high World Cup ticket prices for US fans
via Punch Nigeria1 min read
Former President Donald Trump stated in an interview that he would not pay the over $1,000 ticket price for the United States' first World Cup match. Trump, who takes credit for securing the World Cup for the United States, expressed disappointment that high costs might prevent lower-income Americans, including his supporters, from attending. US lawmakers and international fan groups have criticized FIFA's pricing structure, with Football Supporters Europe calling it a "monumental betrayal." FIFA President Gianni Infantino defended the governing body's stance, citing US laws allowing ticket resales at inflated prices and noting over 500 million ticket requests for 2026. Infantino also mentioned that 25% of group phase tickets are priced under $300. In contrast to the 2022 Qatar World Cup, where the most expensive final ticket was around $1,600, the 2026 final ticket is approximately $11,000.
Free daily or weekly digest of the most important stories from across 18 African countries. No spam, unsubscribe any time.
This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
Must ReadFIFA has chosen "Dai Dai" by Shakira featuring Nigerian superstar Burna Boy as the official song for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Shakira released a 67-second teaser for the track on Thursday, filmed at the Maracanã Stadium. The video shows the Colombian singer dancing on the pitch with other dancers and footballs, concluding with fireworks over the stadium and the message "We Are Ready." Shakira announced on X that "Dai Dai" is the official song and will be released on May 14. This marks Shakira's return to World Cup anthems, following her popular "Waka Waka This Time for Africa" for the 2010 South Africa tournament and her contribution to the 2014 Brazil tournament. The collaboration is expected to combine Latin rhythms with Afrobeats influences, creating a global sound for the 2026 tournament, which begins on June 11. The teaser has generated significant online excitement, with fans calling Shakira the "Queen of World Cup anthems" and anticipating another hit.
Ikenga Ugochinyere, the member representing Ideato North/South Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, has called on opposition political parties to cease internal conflicts and foster unity. In a statement released on Thursday, Ugochinyere specifically appealed to parties such as the African Democratic Congress, Nigerian Democratic Congress, and the Labour Party to avoid confrontations. The lawmaker, who founded the Action People’s Party, criticized the increasing public disagreements and accusations among opposition figures as "childish and counterproductive." He emphasized that this is not the time for internal disputes, stating that Nigerians expect the opposition to offer direction, hope, and credible alternatives, rather than quarrels that diminish collective strength. Ugochinyere stressed that personal interests and ego-driven politics should be replaced by cooperation and dialogue for the benefit of Nigerians. He urged opposition leaders and members to prioritize issues affecting citizens, including insecurity, economic hardship, unemployment, and governance challenges. The federal lawmaker asserted that unity is crucial for any political movement aiming to gain public confidence and strengthen democratic values, adding that Nigerians expect maturity, unity, and a common purpose from the opposition.
The Nigeria Democratic Congress NDC welcomed new defectors from the Peoples Democratic Party PDP, including Charity Aiguobarueghian, the Minority Leader of the Edo State House of Assembly, and Natasha Osawaru Idibia, wife of singer 2Baba. The reception, held at the Abuja residence of NDC National Leader Senator Seriake Dickson, also saw the defection of Dr. Donald Eboigbe, a House of Representatives aspirant, and Dr. John Yoriyo, former Deputy Governor of Gombe State. Senator Dickson assured the new members of fairness and equal opportunity within the party, emphasizing the NDC's commitment to internal democracy, discipline, and inclusiveness. He highlighted the party's focus on good governance, national unity, inclusive development, and the participation of women and youth. Dickson also cautioned against personal ambition overshadowing party interests. Natasha Osawaru Idibia expressed optimism about the party's future, stating her belief that the NDC would soon lead the country. Former House of Representatives member Ehiozuwa Agbonayinma noted the movement's growing national acceptance. Aiguobarueghian explained that their decision followed careful consideration of the country's political situation. Activist Aisha Yesufu, who recently left the African Democratic Congress, described the movement as a turning point in Nigerian politics, urging citizens to remain engaged and hoping for a merit-based system.
Asisat Oshoala scored a hat-trick to help Al Hilal Women secure a 5-1 victory over Al Qadsiah Women, achieving a 7-2 aggregate win and qualifying for the Saudi Women’s Cup final. The six-time African Player of the Year scored twice in the first half and completed her hat-trick after the break. Oshoala has now recorded 23 goals and six assists across all competitions this season. She opened the scoring in the 36th minute, followed by a goal from Jéssica Silva. Although Ajara Nchout scored for Al Qadsiah, Oshoala quickly restored Al Hilal's two-goal lead before halftime. She completed her hat-trick in the 73rd minute and later won a penalty, which Ghizlane Chebbak converted. Al Hilal will face either Al Ula Women or Al Nassr Women in the final. Oshoala joined Al Hilal in the summer of 2025 from Bay FC.