In a match that will be remembered for its dramatic twists and turns, host nation Germany secured a spot in the European Championship quarterfinals with a 2-0 victory over Denmark on Saturday.

The win came amidst a thunderstorm-induced delay and two crucial video review calls, sending the jubilant German fans into raptures.

The game, played in front of a packed Signal Iduna Park in Dortmund, was interrupted by a thunderstorm that brought torrential rain and hail, causing a 25-minute halt in play.

Despite the adverse weather, the atmosphere remained electric as the soaked fans continued to cheer for their team.

The turning point of the match came in the second half. Denmark’s Joachim Andersen appeared to have put his team ahead in the 50th minute with a close-range finish.

However, the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) spotted an offside in the buildup, disallowing the goal.

Immediately after, Germany launched a counter-attack, leading to a cross by David Raum striking Andersen’s outstretched arm. Another VAR review resulted in a penalty for Germany, which Kai Havertz converted, breaking the deadlock.

Jamal Musiala added a second goal for Germany in the 68th minute, securing the win and his third goal of the tournament, tying him with Georgia’s Georges Mikautadze for the most in the competition so far.

The victory marked Germany’s first win in the knockout stages of a major tournament since 2016, a significant achievement for a team looking to shake off a series of disappointing performances in recent years.

“We played a super game — we had crazy fans again today,” said Germany defender Nico Schlotterbeck. “We’re playing with euphoria, we’re playing with fun, and that’s what the most beautiful thing about football is.”

Germany’s coach, Julian Nagelsmann, used the rain delay to his advantage, showing his players key moments from the first half-hour of the game.

“We came through adversity in those seconds where it was, ‘Was it a goal or not a goal?’ and ‘Was it handball or not a handball?’ That makes me proud,” Nagelsmann said. “The team deserves it and hopefully we are getting rid of the old memory stick and understand how good we actually are.”

Denmark’s coach, Kasper Hjulmand, expressed frustration over the VAR decisions, particularly the handball ruling.

“It was one centimeter offside. In terms of statistics and data, it doesn’t make sense. This is not how we are supposed to be using VAR,” he said. “And I am so tired of the ridiculous handball rule. Joachim was running normally. It’s a normal situation.”

Despite the controversy, it is Germany who advances, with the team set to face Spain or Georgia in the quarterfinals.

As the German fans sang “We’re going to Berlin,” the team now looks forward to potentially turning this European Championship into a summer fairy tale, hoping to end their run of underwhelming performances on the grand stage.

“It was a wild game altogether,” Nagelsmann remarked. “We understand how good we actually are. Now, it’s time to prove it.”

With two more wins needed to reach the final in Berlin on July 14, Germany is riding high on confidence and national pride, ready to make the most of their home advantage.

The Nigerian film industry mourns the loss of one of its most beloved figures, Olu Jacobs, who passed away on Sunday, June 30, at the age of 82.

The veteran actor had been battling dementia for some time, a condition that significantly altered his health and daily life in recent years.

Olu Jacobs, a towering presence in Nollywood, leaves behind a rich legacy of memorable performances and numerous accolades.

Over a career spanning several decades, he became known for his powerful screen presence and versatility, earning a place in the hearts of millions of fans both in Nigeria and around the world.

In a recent interview, his wife, actress Joke Silva, shared the profound impact of his illness on their lives.

She spoke candidly about the emotional and psychological adjustments she had to make as she cared for her ailing husband.

“It hasn’t been easy,” Silva said. “There was a point of acceptance for me that everything happening is reality. It is like the person I married, 80 per cent of the time, is no longer there. But the thing is this: when he was there, he was an incredible father to his children and an amazing husband. He was practically my best friend.”

Despite the challenges, Silva’s love and dedication to Jacobs remained unwavering.

“The husband I knew is no longer there for me. This man that is here is someone I still love, but love in a different way,” she added.

Jacobs’ career was marked by his ability to bring depth and authenticity to a wide range of roles. He starred in numerous films and television shows, becoming a staple in Nigerian households.

His contributions to the industry were recognized with multiple awards, including lifetime achievement honors that celebrated his enduring influence on Nollywood.

Born in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Olu Jacobs trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London before making a name for himself in the Nigerian film industry.

His marriage to Joke Silva, a prominent actress in her own right, was a celebrated union that produced not just a strong family, but also numerous collaborative works that enriched Nigerian cinema.

As news of his passing spread, tributes poured in from colleagues, fans, and industry leaders. Many highlighted his mentorship and the doors he opened for younger actors.

His legacy, they said, would live on through the countless lives he touched both on and off the screen.

Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced soon as fans and loved ones prepare to bid farewell to a true legend of African cinema.

Liverpool FC is reportedly preparing to make a £51 million bid for Atalanta’s standout winger, Ademola Lookman.

The Nigerian international, who has impressed during his tenure in Serie A, is seen as a prime target to bolster Liverpool’s attacking options ahead of the upcoming Premier League season.

Lookman, 26, originally hailing from Everton made the switch to Atalanta BC in 2022 for a fee of around £13 million. Since then, he has flourished in Italy.

Over the past two seasons, Lookman has been instrumental for La Dea, contributing 2 goals and 18 assists in 78 appearances.

His standout moment came in the Europa League final where Lookman netted a memorable hat-trick to secure a 3-0 victory over Bayer Leverkusen, further solidifying his reputation as a game-changer.

Lookman’s stellar form has not gone unnoticed, with Liverpool emerging as frontrunners in the race to secure his services.

The Reds are reportedly ready to meet Atalanta’s £51 million valuation, signaling their intent to strengthen their squad under new manager Arne Slot.

The move comes amidst speculation surrounding Liverpool’s current attacking lineup, with stars like Mohamed Salah and Luis Diaz linked with potential exits to the Saudi Pro League and La Liga, respectively.

Lookman is viewed as a strategic addition to provide depth and versatility to Liverpool’s attacking options, should they face departures in the upcoming transfer window.

While Liverpool faces competition from other Premier League giants like Manchester United and Chelsea, who are also monitoring Lookman’s situation, the Reds are determined to secure the Nigerian winger’s signature.

Atalanta, meanwhile, values Lookman highly but is reportedly open to negotiations, especially considering the interest in several of their key players this summer.

The club’s stance may also hinge on the future of midfielder Teun Koopmeiners, as they aim to maintain stability amidst potential departures.

Liverpool’s pursuit of Ademola Lookman signifies their proactive approach in the transfer market as they aim to strengthen their squad for the challenges ahead in both domestic and European competitions.

As negotiations progress, fans eagerly await developments that could see Lookman don the iconic red jersey at Anfield in the upcoming season.