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Football trophies are far more than decorative prizes: they are enduring symbols of greatness, legacy, and the pinnacle of achievement in the sport.

Crafted from precious metals like gold and sterling silver, and enriched by decades of history, some of these iconic pieces are worth millions.

Here’s a refined look at the most expensive football trophies in the world.

1. FIFA World Cup Trophy

Estimated value: $20 million+
Material: 18-carat gold with malachite base

Widely regarded as the most valuable trophy in football — and arguably in all of sport — the FIFA World Cup trophy is a masterpiece of design and symbolism. Created by Silvio Gazzaniga and introduced in 1974, it features two human figures lifting the Earth.

While its gold content alone is worth around $600,000, its true value lies in its prestige and history, pushing its insured worth beyond $20 million. The original trophy is permanently held by FIFA, with winners receiving a gold-plated replica instead.

2. UEFA Champions League Trophy

Estimated value: $10–13 million
Material: Sterling silver

Nicknamed “Big Ears,” this iconic trophy is one of the most recognisable in global sport. Designed by Jörg Stadelmann, it has been awarded since 1967.

Though its raw silver value is relatively low, its immense cultural and historical significance drives its valuation into the millions. Clubs like Real Madrid and AC Milan have famously lifted it multiple times.

3. Premier League Trophy

Estimated value: $3–5 million
Material: Sterling silver, gold plating, malachite base

Introduced in 1992, the Premier League trophy is a striking blend of silver and gold, crowned to symbolise supremacy in English football. Crafted by Asprey of London, each trophy takes hundreds of hours to produce.

Interestingly, two identical versions exist — one for presentation and one for backup and promotional use.

4. Ballon d’Or

Estimated value: $500,000–$3 million

Awarded annually by France Football, the Ballon d’Or recognises the world’s best player. Though made from gold-plated brass, its real value comes from prestige and rarity.

Legends like Lionel Messi have elevated its status — his record haul alone is valued in the tens of millions collectively.

5. FA Cup Trophy

Estimated value: $1–2 million
Material: Sterling silver

The FA Cup trophy represents the oldest football competition in the world, dating back to 1871. The current version, crafted by Thomas Lyte, continues a long legacy after earlier versions were lost or replaced.

Its historical importance far outweighs its material cost.

6. Copa Libertadores Trophy

Estimated value: $800,000–$1.5 million
Material: Silver with gold plating

South America’s most prestigious club prize features engravings honouring independence heroes like Simón Bolívar. First awarded in 1960, it stands as a symbol of continental dominance.

7. UEFA European Championship Trophy (Henri Delaunay Cup)

Estimated value: $1–2 million
Material: Sterling silver

Named after Henri Delaunay, this trophy has been awarded since 1960. Redesigned in 2006, it features engravings of all past winners and remains one of Europe’s most prestigious prizes.

8. Bundesliga Meisterschale

Estimated value: $500,000–$800,000
Material: Sterling silver

Unlike traditional cups, Germany’s league trophy is a large silver shield. Every champion since 1903 is engraved on it — with Bayern Munich dominating its surface due to their record title wins.

The post 8 most expensive football trophies in the world appeared first on Vanguard News.

European football governing body UEFA rejected Tuesday Barcelona’s complaint over a handball incident in their Champions League quarter-final first leg defeat by Atletico Madrid, hours before the second leg.

Diego Simeone’s side won 2-0 at Camp Nou last week and Barca were upset by an incident where Atletico defender Marc Pubill touched the ball with his hand after it appeared a goal kick had been passed to him.

“(After the first leg) Barcelona filed a protest relating to a referee decision. On 13 April 2026, the UEFA Control Ethics and Disciplinary Body declared the protest to be inadmissible,” said UEFA in a statement.

Five-time Champions League winners Barca said last week the decision not to award them a penalty was a “major error” which influenced the result and were upset referee Istvan Kovacs was not told to review the incident by the VAR team.

Vanguard News

The post UEFA reject Barca handball complaint before Atletico return appeared first on Vanguard News.

It was always going to be a night to remember. But Port Harcourt, true to its nature, made it something more.

On Easter Sunday, April 5, Heineken brought the City of Cities experience to the Garden City — and Port Harcourt met the moment with everything it had. Fashion, creativity, music, and a city-wide energy that reminded everyone watching exactly why PH belongs on the same stage as any of Nigeria’s great cities..

The event marked the next chapter in the City of Cities journey, following its debut at the Heineken Lagos Fashion Week — where a breathtaking 46-piece collection curated by Omoyemi Akerele, founder and CEO of Lagos Fashion Week, featured some of Africa’s finest design talent. Port Harcourt’s edition built on that legacy while telling a story that was entirely its own.

The night started when Port Harcourt’s own Duncan Mighty took the stage. His performance was a defining moment of the evening — a homecoming of sorts, as one of the Garden City’s most iconic and beloved sons brought his signature sound to a room that received him with the kind of energy only Port Harcourt can produce. It was a moment that captured everything the Pulse of the Garden City is about — authentic, powerful, and deeply rooted in the identity of this city.

At the heart of the evening was a runway showcase that put the Garden City’s creative community front and centre. Port Harcourt-based designers Akpos Odudu, Winnie White Wears, and Icella delivered looks that were bold, distinct, and unmistakably PH — a powerful statement that the Garden City’s fashion identity is very much alive and deserving of a world-class stage. From fashion-led activations to the powerful performance from the Loud Urban Choir, the experience captured the essence of Port Harcourt while reinforcing Heineken’s role as a curator of premium cultural experiences.

By the time the evening’s main experience began, Port Harcourt was already buzzing. Inside, the City of Cities: Pulse of the Garden City delivered everything the platform stands for: premium production, editorial fashion moments, and an atmosphere that felt at once global and entirely, unmistakably PH. Heineken brand influencers and locally rooted Port Harcourt creators moved through the space, capturing the night from every angle — the result was content that told a story not just of a great party, but of a city stepping fully into the cultural spotlight.

And when the main show wound down, the after party took over — and the Garden City had no intention of going home. Fola brought electrifying energy to the stage while DJ Neptune held the decks, delivering a set that kept the crowd on their feet long into the night. With Shoday commanding the room as hypeman, the atmosphere was nothing short of electric — a perfect, high-energy close to one of Port Harcourt’s most memorable nights.

“Port Harcourt has always had a pulse. A bold, creative, unmistakable energy that runs through its fashion, its music, its people, and its spirit. You have never needed anyone to tell you who you are — this city has always known. Tonight, Heineken is simply giving that pulse the stage it has always deserved” said Maria Shodeko, Portfolio Manager, Premium Beer, Nigerian Breweries Plc.

Heineken delivered an unforgettable cultural moment in Port Harcourt as it hosted the City of Cities Experience, bringing together fashion, music, and urban culture in a bold expression of the city’s identity — and the Garden City rose to every single moment of it.

City of Cities: Pulse of the Garden City – How Heineken brought fashion, music, and Culture together in Port Harcourt

The Delta State Police Command has arrested a suspect for allegedly purchasing a prohibited firearm through social media, after he was found in possession of a Beretta pistol.

The state Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, disclosed this in a video shared on Tuesday, where he displayed the weapon recovered from the suspect and warned against the rising trend of illegal arms acquisition.

Edafe, while unveiling the contents of a bag carried by the suspect, said, “This is a Beretta pistol, not even fabricated. It has the magazine and two 9mm ammunition,” stressing that such weapons are restricted to authorised security agencies.

The suspect, identified as Igbunu Evans from Sapele in Delta State, admitted during questioning that he obtained the firearm through Snapchat, saying he “ordered it through Snapchat from a smoke vendor” and paid N450,000 for its delivery.

Explaining his reason for acquiring the weapon, the suspect claimed it was “for safety purposes… against any unknown gunmen or kidnappers,” but also confessed to involvement in internet fraud, stating he had been engaged in it for “three to four years.”

Reacting, Edafe linked the development to a chain of criminal activities, noting that “internet fraud, cultism, abuse of illicit substances, and now gun possession” show how “one crime gives birth to another.”

He emphasised that it is unlawful for individuals to possess such firearms, stating that the Beretta pistol “is a prohibited firearm that can only be linked to government security agencies,” adding that no individual is permitted to hold such weapons under the guise of self-protection.

The police spokesman said the suspect is currently in custody and will be charged to court.

Man Nabbed In Delta Over Snapchat Gun Deal is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

Former governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, has arrived at the Federal High Court in Kaduna for the ruling on his bail application.

Security was heightened on Tuesday at the court presided over by Justice Rilwan Aikawa.

The court had fixed Tuesday for the ruling on El-Rufai’s bail application in relation to the new charges.

El-Rufai had earlier appeared before the Kaduna State High Court, which was his first port of call at 9:00 a.m.

However, proceedings at the court did not progress as expected, with the presiding judge, Darius Khobo, adjourning the bail ruling to April 21.

The development followed fresh legal moves by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), which filed an amended nine-count charge against the former governor.

The ex-governor’s counsel, Ukpong Abang, told reporters after proceedings on Monday that the prosecution amended the charges, dropping one of the earlier defendants and leaving El-Rufai as the sole defendant.

“The charges are entirely new to us. They were given to us this morning while we were already in court. That is why the matter could not proceed to hearing,” Abang said.

He added that the defence team would take time to study the amended charges before deciding on the next line of action.

“We will analyse the charges and make our position known. For now, there is nothing we can do until we have fully reviewed them,” he stated.

Following the development, the court adjourned the case to Tuesday, April 14, for ruling on the bail application, but it was subsequently adjourned till April 21.

The post El-Rufai arrives Federal High Court in Kaduna for bail ruling appeared first on Vanguard News.

By Ayobami Okerinde

Former Chelsea midfielder, John Obi Mikel, has said no fan or ex-player of the club would want Arsenal FC to win the Premier League title.

Mikel made the remark on his Obi One Podcast released on Monday as the Premier League title race intensifies, insisting that the long-standing rivalry between both London clubs makes such support impossible.

He said, “No Chelsea ex-player or fan will ever want to see Arsenal win the Premier League.

Responding to criticism from Arsenal supporters, Mikel dismissed claims that such sentiments reflect a “small club” mentality. He recalled that interactions between players and fans of both clubs were often hostile, even outside match settings.

To all Arsenal fans saying, ‘Mikel, you are too harsh on us,’ I’m Chelsea, and you can take it personally. I don’t want you to win the Premier League.

“We hated each other; the rivalry was crazy [back then]. We smashed each other. And when I went out after the games in London or whenever it was, when I saw Arsenal fans or players, we never spoke to each other. Sometimes, even our friends got into fights.”

He also warned that if Arsenal fails to win the Premier League this season, it would be the biggest disaster in the history of the competition for the Gunners.

“These Arsenal players, they have to understand that this is their probably, if they don’t win it (Premier League) this season. It’s probably going to be the biggest disaster in the history of the Premier League for them.

“It’s going to be the biggest disaster for them because right now, if they had won that game [against Bournemouth] on Saturday. It will be 12 points.

“They took their foot off the gas over the weekend, and Man City came right back, and right now it is 6 points.”

“Arteta has to find a way, because right now they look like a team that are out of sorts; they don’t know what to do, and he [Arteta] looks out of ideas.”

Arsenal missed the chance to extend their lead at the weekend after a shock 2–1 defeat to Bournemouth, while Manchester City closed the gap with a 3–0 win over Chelsea.

With six games remaining, Arsenal sit top of the table with a six-point lead over second-placed Manchester City, who have a game in hand. Both sides are set to meet this weekend in what could prove decisive in the title race.

The post ‘No Chelsea player or fan wants Arsenal to win Premier League’ — Mikel appeared first on Vanguard News.

A young man in Adamawa State has died from knife cuts after reporting to the police how he was stabbed by two other men.

The 22-year-old Daniel Samuel of Michika town, had on Sunday, April 12 reported at the Divisional Police Headquarters, Michika, with marks of violence and blood stains on his body.

He told the police that on the said day, one Dakiyar Tumba, aged 23 years, and Sini Luka, aged 31 years, both of the same address, attacked and stabbed him on his back with a knife.

The Adamawa State Police Command which disclosed the incident, said that its operatives arrested the two individuals mentioned in connection with the case of conspiracy and culpable homicide.

The state Police Public Relations Officer, SP Suleiman Nguroje explained in a statement made available to newsmen in Yola that upon receipt of the report, operatives of the Command attached to the Divisional Police Headquarters in Michika rushed the victim to the hospital where he was later confirmed dead.

“The corpse has been deposited at the hospital morgue for autopsy,” Nguroje stated, adding that the two suspects are now in custody and the knife used in the committing the crime recovered and will be used as an exhibit.

“The state Commissioner of Police, CP Kabir Umar Hassan condemned the incident and directed the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) to ensure a diligent investigation and prosecution of the suspects,” Nguroje said.

Two allegedly stab man to death in Adamawa

By Musa Ubandawaki, Sokoto

SOKOTO;- The Nigerian Army has intensified efforts to strengthen troop readiness and operational efficiency as the 8 Division, Sokoto, on Monday kicked off the 2026 Inter-Brigade Corporals and Below Competition, a major training exercise designed to sharpen the physical fitness, discipline, and combat preparedness of soldiers.

Declaring the week long competition open, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division, Maj.-Gen. Bemgba Koughna, said the initiative reflects the Army’s determination to maintain a highly professional and battle ready force capable of responding effectively to the nation’s evolving security challenges.

Represented by the Commander, 48 Engineering Brigade, Brig.-Gen. Ifenna Agba, the GOC described rigorous training as the cornerstone of military professionalism and operational excellence.

“Training remains the bedrock of the military profession and the cradle upon which regimentation and discipline are built. Competitions such as this are organised to assess the physical fitness, endurance, and combat readiness of our troops,” he said.

According to him, the exercise will provide a critical platform for soldiers to test their limits, improve their stamina, and sharpen tactical skills necessary for effective field operations.

Koughna noted that the volatile security environment across parts of the country continues to demand highly disciplined and physically resilient troops capable of confronting emerging threats.

He stressed that combating criminal activities within the Division’s area of responsibility requires well-trained, motivated, and combat-ready personnel.

“To effectively counter the activities of criminal elements, physically fit and operationally prepared troops are indispensable,” he added.

The GOC explained that the competition is also in line with the directive of Army Headquarters to intensify training programmes across formations as part of efforts to strengthen operational capacity.

He said the exercise aligns with the Chief of Army Staff’s command philosophy of building a professional, adaptable, and resilient Nigerian Army capable of meeting contemporary security demands.

Koughna urged all participating formations to observe the rules of the competition and conduct themselves with discipline and professionalism.

He also called on umpires and judges to uphold fairness and impartiality throughout the event

The GOC commended the host formation, Headquarters 8 Division Garrison, for successfully organising the competition within a short timeframe.

He further appreciated the Sokoto State Government, other security agencies, and members of the public for their continued cooperation and support to the military in safeguarding lives and property.

In his remarks, the Commander, 8 Division Garrison, Brig.-Gen. Abdulmalik Muhammad, described the competition as a strategic platform for strengthening junior leadership and operational competence among corporals and soldiers.

He said the exercise goes beyond routine sporting activities, noting that it is designed to enhance discipline, endurance, tactical awareness, and professional development among troops.

“This competition is not merely a contest of skills; it is a deliberate effort to reinforce discipline, resilience, and tactical proficiency among our personnel,” Muhammad said.

He disclosed that activities scheduled for the event include map reading, swimming, drill exercises, endurance races, weapon handling, and other tactical drills aimed at sharpening soldiers’ operational capabilities.

Muhammad added that the competition would help build a more cohesive, robust, and combat-ready junior cadre within the Nigerian Army while promoting esprit de corps, healthy rivalry, and stronger collaboration among formations.

He commended the GOC for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to training and operational excellence.

The commander also urged participants to compete with discipline, sportsmanship, and determination while embracing the opportunity to learn from one another in the spirit of professionalism and unity.

The post Army steps up combat readiness as 8 division launches military competition in sokoto appeared first on Vanguard News.

A former Director with the Department of State Services (DSS), Mike Ejiofor, has been re-elected as President of the Alumni Association of the National Institute for Security Studies (AANISS).

This is contained in a statement by the Publicity Secretary of the association, Mr Peter Iliya, on Tuesday in Abuja.

Iliya said Ejiofor, alongside other members were elected and returned to office during the association’s 2026 Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in Abuja.

According to him, the AGM was preceded by the association’s second annual lecture titled ”Credible Elections and National Security in Nigeria”.

”The lecture featured Mike Igini as guest speaker, with contributions from Okey Ikechukwu, Oluwafunmilayo Para-Mallam, Jibrin Ibrahim and Samson Itodo.

”Participants at the lecture emphasised that credible, free and fair elections remain critical to strengthening national security, especially ahead of the 2027 general elections.

”They also called for actionable strategies and sustained collaboration among stakeholders to ensure electoral integrity and stability in the country.

He quoted Ejiofor to have expressed appreciation to members for the confidence reposed in him and pledged to advance the objectives of the association as well as strengthen its contributions to national security discourse.

Ejiofor Re-elected AANISS President, Calls For Stronger Security Engagement is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

Manchester United legend, Roy Keane, has hit out at midfielders Casemiro and Manuel Ugarte following the Red Devils’ Premier League 2-1 defeat to Leeds United on Monday.

According to Keane, the midfield duo showed zero energy or quality, especially during a lackluster first half at Old Trafford.

Leeds defeated the Red Devils, thanks to Noah Okafor’s brace as they walked away with all three points against Michael Carrick’s side.

But Keane was unimpressed by Casemiro and Ugarte’s minimal influence on the match.

“They weren’t sprinting. United. And the bit at the end was too little too late. It’s a big setback for them,” Keane told The Mirror.

“The midfield? Nonexistent. Those two (Casemiro and Ugarte), especially in the first half—no energy, no quality.

“Leeds were out of the blocks quickly, and it was a fantastic result for Leeds.”

EPL: ‘No energy’ – Roy Keane tears into two Man Utd players after Leeds loss