Yan Nigeria
Portuguese authorities announced the successful recovery of the Women’s Champions League trophy, which had been stolen from the Estadio Jose Alvalade in Lisbon, the venue for the upcoming final featuring defending champions Barcelona and Arsenal.
Naija News understands that the theft occurred during a league match between Sporting Lisbon and Vitoria Guimaraes on Saturday, but it was not reported to the police until the next day.
According to a police statement, several individuals wearing balaclavas forced open a gate in the stadium’s garage, where the prestigious tournament final is scheduled for May 24.
In addition to the trophy, other UEFA equipment was also stolen.
A police spokesman informed AFP that these items, along with the trophy, have now been returned to the governing body of European football.
Thirteen suspects have been identified, although the police did not provide details regarding the operation that led to the recovery of the stolen items.
The investigation is still active, and authorities anticipate recovering additional items and making more arrests in the near future.
Meanwhile, Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou has stressed that he intends to remain at the club regardless of the outcome of tomorrow’s UEFA Europa League final against Manchester United.
Ahead of the Europa League final in Bilbao, Spain, Postecoglou addressed speculation surrounding his future, emphasising that winning the trophy would not signify the completion of his mission at the North London club.
“No, I don’t think my job is done here,” he stated.
“A trophy would certainly help our progress, and I believe there is still a lot of work to be done.”
During a press conference earlier today, May 20, Postecoglou refuted a comment implying he is a “clown,” responding to a report that suggested his standing with fans hinged on the outcome in Bilbao.
Drawing on personal experience, Postecoglou shared his journey and family background before addressing the critical nature of the upcoming match.
“I refuse to be labelled a clown based on our success or failure in this match,” he asserted.
“For 26 years, I’ve worked diligently to reach this position, leading a club into a European final. This journey is about more than just one game.”
Postecoglou highlighted his unique background, having emigrated from Greece to Australia, and reflected on the importance of his heritage while navigating a career in a country where football is less prominent.
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