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Declan Rice in Tears After Historic Champions League Triumph

Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice was visibly emotional after helping his side secure a place in the UEFA Champions League final for the first time in 20 years, following a 1-0 victory over Atletico Madrid at the Emirates Stadium.

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Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice was visibly emotional after helping his side secure a place in the UEFA Champions League final for the first time in 20 years, following a 1-0 victory over Atletico Madrid at the Emirates Stadium.

Bukayo Saka’s goal just before half-time sent Arsenal into the Champions League final for the second time in the club’s history, as they overcame Atletico Madrid in a jubilant Emirates Stadium. With the tie finely balanced after last week’s 1-1 draw in Madrid, the Gunners struck the decisive blow on 44 minutes when Leandro Trossard’s effort was parried into Saka’s path, allowing him to finish and set up a thrilling second half.

Rice, who delivered another tireless performance in midfield, admitted he was almost lost for words after the final whistle. Speaking to arsenal.com, he said:

“I can’t describe it to be honest with you. It’s been coming, this night at the Emirates in general, I think it’s the best night at the Emirates that I’ve witnessed, even better than the Real Madrid game last year.”

The England international praised the supporters for creating an unforgettable atmosphere, recalling how the players were greeted with flares and chants as the team bus arrived.

“I’ve not seen the Emirates like that, so a big thank you to the fans because we needed that… Even if you’re tired, it just gives you that energy to keep going, and I think they played a massive part tonight in making us win.”

Rice acknowledged the significance of the achievement for both the club and its fans, highlighting the emotional journey Arsenal supporters have endured over the years.

“This era of Arsenal fans… I’m sure this is really up there for them. So, I’m happy we’ve done it for the club and for this set of players and our manager because everyone deserves it, so, so happy.”

The victory means Arsenal will contest their first Champions League final since 2006, with a chance to lift Europe’s biggest prize for the first time in the club’s history.

Looking ahead to Budapest, Rice added:

“It’s crazy saying that. Bring it on – I’ll be ready. Budapest, I want every Arsenal fan out there. 200,000 of you, come out! Let’s try and do it because we’re going to need all the support, all the energy and let’s make it really special.”

Arsenal now stand on the brink of history, with Rice’s passion and leadership embodying the spirit of a team determined to finally conquer Europe.

Football

Coca-Cola Brings FIFA World Cup 2026 Fever to Zimbabwe

Harare, Zimbabwe — Coca-Cola Zimbabwe has launched a nationwide campaign to bring the excitement of the FIFA World Cup 2026™ closer to fans, transforming everyday moments into unforgettable football celebrations.

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Harare, ZimbabweCoca-Cola Zimbabwe has launched a nationwide campaign to bring the excitement of the FIFA World Cup 2026™ closer to fans, transforming everyday moments into unforgettable football celebrations.

Turning Zimbabwe Into a Football Hub

Running from June 1 to August 31, the campaign will deliver immersive fan experiences across retail outlets, entertainment venues, restaurants, and quick-service hubs. From interactive in-store activations to dynamic digital engagement, Coca-Cola is ensuring that Zimbabweans feel part of the world’s biggest sporting stage.

Fans stand a chance to win prizes including two Hyundai Grand i10 vehicles, cash, airtime, and more by purchasing participating Coca-Cola 300ml RGB packs with yellow caps.

Football as a Shared Emotion

Faith Nehanda, Senior Manager, Frontline Marketing for Coca-Cola East and Central Africa, emphasized the emotional power of football:


“Football is more than a game—it’s a shared emotion that brings billions of people together, especially during the FIFA World Cup 26™. This campaign is about harnessing the incredible energy and emotional highs and lows that only the FIFA World Cup can deliver, and turning them into real, meaningful connections.”

Fan Engagement Across Zimbabwe

The campaign is designed for all fans — from die-hard collectors of World Cup kits to casual supporters who enjoy highlights and the festive atmosphere. With the 2026 tournament introducing more teams, more players, and more matches than ever before, Coca-Cola is positioning itself as the essential companion for every fan, through every goal and every emotion.

Elevating the Sports Experience

By activating across retail and social spaces, Coca-Cola is not only refreshing fans but also elevating how Zimbabweans watch and celebrate football. Whether cheering in local bars, at home with family, or online with friends, the brand is ensuring that the World Cup spirit is felt nationwide.

A Celebration Beyond the Pitch

Coca-Cola’s campaign underscores its long-standing partnership with FIFA, spanning nearly five decades. More than just a beverage, Coca-Cola is presenting itself as a cultural connector — bringing Zimbabweans closer to the drama, passion, and unity that define the World Cup.

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Football

Win a Car with Coca-Cola’s FIFA World Cup Competition!

Coca-Cola, the official FIFA World Cup partner, has unveiled an electrifying competition that promises to bring fans closer to the action while celebrating the world’s biggest football tournament.

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Coca-Cola, the official FIFA World Cup partner, has kicked off an exhilarating competition that gives local soccer fans the chance to drive away in a brand-new car while celebrating the world’s biggest sporting event.

From June 11 to July 19, 2026, local soccer lovers can sip, scan, and score big as the World Cup kicks off across 16 cities in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. This historic edition will be the first to feature 48 teams and be jointly hosted by three nations.

How to Enter

  • Buy any 300ML Coca-Cola with a yellow cap.
  • Find the unique code under the cap.
  • Scan the QR code or send “COKE” via WhatsApp to 0783313439 and follow the prompts to enter.

Prizes Up for Grabs

Fans stand a chance to win a brand-new car and many other exciting prizes.

Delta Beverages captured the spirit of the campaign on social media:

“Every celebration, every victory, every unforgettable moment deserves a refreshing Coke. As the official FIFA World Cup, Coca-Cola is bringing fans closer to the action. Buy, enter, and stand a chance to win a car and many more prizes.”

This competition is more than just about winning—it’s about savoring every goal, every cheer, and every unforgettable World Cup moment with an ice-cold Coca-Cola in hand.

Will you be the lucky fan driving away with the grand prize? Grab your yellow-cap Coke today and join the celebration!

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Football

PSL Major Sponsor Worried About Match Violence

Harare – Castle Lager, the principal sponsor of the Zimbabwe Premier Soccer League (PSL), has expressed grave concern over rising incidents of fan violence at local football matches that  could tarnish the image of the league and discourage potential sponsors.

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Harare – Castle Lager, the principal sponsor of the Zimbabwe Premier Soccer League (PSL), has expressed grave concern over rising incidents of fan violence at local football matches that  could tarnish the image of the league and discourage potential sponsors.

The sponsor’s press statement follows violent clashes on Sunday at Chahwanda Stadium during a league fixture between Hardrock and Dynamos. The match, which ended prematurely, saw an estimated 10 people injured and taken to hospital after chaos erupted in the second half.

Trouble began in the 67th minute when Hardrock were awarded a penalty, converted by Wilfred Madzungu to level the score at 1–1. Tensions flared immediately after the equaliser, with rival fans storming the pitch and disrupting play. Players and technical staff from both sides were escorted off the field as police and security personnel struggled to contain the unrest. 

Hardrock fans beat up a Dynamos supporter
Hardrock fans beat up a Dynamos supporter at Chahwanda Stadium on Sunday

This is not an isolated incident; it is the second time the Kwekwe-based side has been involved in a crowd disturbance. On Sunday, 19 April 2026, a video circulated on social media allegedly showing Hardrock FC marshals and supporters involved in crowd trouble during the match between Hardrock FC and Ngezi Platinum Stars. The Premier Soccer League (PSL) has since launched an investigation into the disturbances, and a ruling is yet to be issued.v

In its press release, Castle Lager condemned the violence, citing that it does not represent its values. 

“Football has long held a unifying role in Zimbabwean society—bringing together

communities, families, and supporters in a shared celebration of passion, talent, and national pride. Recent events, however, fall short of the spirit of the game and the values we collectively stand for.”

Castle Lager further urged the PSL leadership, clubs, and relevant authorities to act decisively and transparently in investigating the disturbances and implementing disciplinary measures. The sponsor warned that continued violence could erode confidence in the league and jeopardise future investment in Zimbabwean football.

“As a longstanding partner of the PSL, Castle Lager strongly condemn all forms of violence and unsportsmanlike behaviour, both on and off the field. The safety of fans, players, match officials and all stakeholders remains paramount,” the statement read.

The sponsor reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the growth and integrity of the PSL but stressed that the game must be played in an environment that reflects safety, respect, fairness, and unity. Castle Lager also wished those injured a speedy recovery and appealed to fans to reject violence and support their teams responsibly.

“We urge all involved to act decisively and transparently to restore confidence in the game.

As sponsors, we are actively engaging with the PSL leadership on these matters and await the

outcomes of the ongoing investigations into these events. This is to help us understand the

root causes behind these disruptions and support practical, long-term solutions that reinforce a safe and enjoyable football environment…We believe the game must be played, and experienced, in a manner that reflects safety, respect, fairness and unity.”

The incident has reignited debate over stadium security and fan conduct, with analysts advocating for decisive action to be taken against the perpetrators of such unsportsmanlike behavior. 

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