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Tchouameni And Thuram Score As France Beat Republic of Ireland
Substitute Marcus Thuram ensured a home victory early in the second half as the French made it five wins from five.
For the Republic, however, it is a third defeat in four games, leaving them fourth in the group.
Stephen Kenny’s side’s chances of qualifying for next summer’s finals in Germany are remote, but they must regroup quickly and look to revive their campaign at home to the Netherlands on Sunday.
When France visited Dublin in March, Didier Deschamps’ side escaped with a 1-0 win having been put under intense pressure by a spirited Republic team, with French goalkeeper Mike Maignan in inspired form.
But it was a different story in the French capital, with Thuram’s goal taking the sting out of the game and paving the way for a largely comfortable second half for Les Bleus.
While few expected a Republic victory, their latest defeat leaves them facing an almighty task in their quest to qualify for a tournament for the first time under Kenny.
“From our point of view it’s all about Sunday,” Kenny, who admitted France were “too good”, told RTE.
“That’s the main objective. Holland beating Greece tonight means that if we beat them on Sunday we’re all level [Republic, the Netherlands and Greece] in relation to second place.
“It is a big game and we need a victory.”
Ferguson-less Republic struggle
Already facing a daunting task away to the beaten World Cup finalists, the Republic’s preparations were hit on Tuesday by the injury-enforced withdrawal of in-form Brighton striker Evan Ferguson.
The 18-year-old, fresh off scoring a hat-trick against Newcastle, was set to spearhead the Irish attack against France and the Netherlands, and with Michael Obafemi, Troy Parrott, Callum Robinson, and Mikey Johnston already out, the Republic’s attack struggled in Paris.
As for France, Kylian Mbappe fired a blank – as he did in Dublin – as the Paris St-Germain star fired a volley over the bar from an Antoine Griezmann corner before seeing a goal ruled out for offside. But while he failed to score, the 24-year-old was constantly involved in the home side’s attacks.
There were no such goalscoring frustrations for Tchouameni, though, who fired in a brilliant opener after being teed up by Mbappe.
The 23-year-old Real Madrid midfielder lit up the first half with an unstoppable right-footed shot, but it was an avoidable goal from a Republic perspective with Nathan Collins only able to half-clear a cross to Mbappe.
From there, France largely dominated possession but were unable to double the advantage before half-time. Mbappe thought he had done just that six minutes before the break but Thuram was correctly flagged for offside before he found the France captain.
Thuram strike paves way for French domination
Unfortunately for the Irish, their defence was unable to hold firm for long in the second half. Just three minutes after the restart, Inter Milan forward Thuram fired high into Bazunu’s net on the turn inside the box after Mbappe’s shot had been blocked.
Kenny opted to introduce James McClean at half-time and the Wrexham player almost repaid his manager’s faith with an assist within minutes of Thuram’s goal, but Maignan – like he did in Dublin – showed impressive reflexes to keep Chiedozie Ogbene’s header out.
That was about as much as the Republic could muster up top, though, while France were unable to turn their second-half domination into a flurry of goals despite creating a succession of chances, with the dangerous Ousmane Dembele rattling the woodwork and Thuram squandering a golden chance to head his second.
The gulf in quality was evident throughout, however, and with three points in the bag, French sporting fans now turn their attention to the Rugby World Cup, which kicks off in Paris on Friday with the Les Bleus taking on New Zealand.
Irish rugby fans, meanwhile, can only hope their side fare better than Kenny’s men in France.
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Nigerian Afrobeats artist and songwriter OJ Sular is bringing his energy, ambition, and street-inspired sound to listeners with the release of his single, Money Vibe. The track reflects his journey, determination, and vision of success while showcasing the unique style that continues to define his growing career.
Born Ojukwu Samuel Arinzechukwu on March 6, 2004, OJ Sular hails from Eha Amufu in Isi Uzo Local Government Area of Enugu State, Nigeria. Widely recognized by his stage names OJ Sular and Big OJ, he has steadily built a reputation as a versatile performer whose music blends Afrobeats, Afropop, Hip Hop, and Drill.
OJ Sular attended Ogbaete Primary School, Eha Ohuala Secondary School, and later Amaenyi Boys Secondary School in Anambra State. His passion for music developed at an early age, leading him to pursue a professional career built on authentic storytelling and energetic performances.
Money Vibe marks one of the defining records in OJ Sular’s musical journey. Originally gaining attention in 2019, the song introduced audiences to his signature sound and earned him recognition among fans who appreciate music that celebrates hard work, ambition, and the determination to rise above life’s challenges. His growing popularity has also earned him the nickname “King of the Street.”
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As one of the promising young voices emerging from Nigeria’s vibrant music scene, OJ Sular continues to connect with audiences through honest lyrics, memorable melodies, and performances that reflect both his personal experiences and his aspirations.
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About OJ Sular
OJ Sular, born Ojukwu Samuel Arinzechukwu, is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and recording artist from Enugu State. Known for blending Afrobeats, Afropop, Hip Hop, and Drill, he has established himself as an independent artist with a growing fan base. Performing under the names OJ Sular and Big OJ, he is also the founder of OJ Entertainment, where he continues to create music that inspires, entertains, and represents the voice of a new generation.
It was the very first edition of Electrolytes, and somehow it already felt like a classic. The doors barely opened before the energy took over: glow foam drifting through the crowd, Jäger Energizers passed from hand to hand, strangers becoming dance partners within minutes. This was Lagos nightlife doing what it does best.
DJ Bellami, DJ SKB, DJ Valentino, Big Riki, DJ Instinct, DJ Spizzy, DJ OTB, DJ Xnel, Yanfssss, ReBellyus, Bus yi, and Ephraim (Talking Drummer) kept the crowd moving all night while Hypeman Holyfaze and Toby Shang made sure they stayed locked in from one set to the next. Together, they served up a seamless mix of Afrobeats, Amapiano, House, and global sounds that had guests dancing well into the early hours.
The night was elevated further Jägermeister, Belaire, Lightspeed, MyFlex Tickets, and Buzz & Bants, all of whom helped shape a complete celebration of music, culture, and connection. The event also had backing from The Scar Production, The Scar Bookings, and SDGV Audio. Between signature drink moments, Jäger Energizers making their way through the crowd, and a smoothly run event experience, there was something to enjoy at every turn.
The Scar Radio was founded in 2020 by Fabulous Fabuyi Adeniyi and operates from its studio in Lagos, with network branches in the United States and the United Kingdom. It is part of The Scar Global Group, which includes The Scar Production, The Scar Bookings, SCAR XYZ, and The Scar Accessories. Over the years, the radio station has served as a home for global talents and a launch pad for budding creatives and artistes.
Watch The Electrolytes Party Highlights below:
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