US HOUSE MOVES TO WITHHOLD ALL AID TO NIGERIA OVER INSECURITY The United States House of Representatives has taken a major step towards withholding 100 per cent of certain US assistance to Nigeria, escalating pressure on the Federal Government over persistent insecurity and allegations of religious persecution. The development followed the adoption of an amendment seeking to increase the proposed withholding threshold from 50 per cent to 100 per cent until Nigeria takes what US lawmakers consider effective and measurable steps to address violence and protect vulnerable communities.The amendment, championed by Republican Congressman Greg Steube, was adopted by a voice vote before the wider fiscal year 2027 National Security, Department of State and Related Programs Appropriations bill reportedly passed the House by 217 votes to 209. Speaking in support of the measure, Steube accused the Nigerian government of failing to adequately tackle terrorism and attacks on religious communities, particularly Christians. The move represents a significant escalation from an earlier proposal that sought to withhold 50 per cent of assistance to Nigeria. However, the House action does not necessarily mean that all US aid to Nigeria has immediately stopped. The legislation would still have to complete the US legislative process and take effect before its provisions become binding. If ultimately implemented, the measure could have significant implications for relations between Washington and Abuja, particularly in areas where Nigeria benefits from American assistance. Nigeria has battled multiple security crises for years, including terrorism in the North-East, banditry and mass kidnappings in the North-West, deadly communal violence in the Middle Belt and other forms of criminality across the country. While some American lawmakers have increasingly framed parts of the crisis around attacks on Christians and religious freedom, Nigerian authorities have previously maintained that terrorism and insecurity affect citizens across religious and ethnic lines. The latest development could now intensify diplomatic pressure on President Bola Tinubu’s administration to demonstrate measurable progress in protecting lives, prosecuting perpetrators and restoring security to affected communities. For Nigeria, the message coming from Washington is becoming increasingly serious: failure to contain the country’s worsening security crisis could carry consequences beyond its borders.The big question now is whether the threat of losing US assistance will force a stronger response from Abuja — or trigger a fresh diplomatic confrontation between the two countries.
BLACKSOILTV News Beyond the Headlines.
AUTONOMY BATTLE: STATES DEFY SUPREME COURT AS N10TN LG ALLOCATIONS REMAIN UNDER CONTROL
Nearly two years after the Supreme Court delivered a landmark judgment granting financial autonomy to Nigeria’s 774 local government areas, questions are mounting over the continued control of council funds by state governments. Between July 2024 and June 2026, local governments received allocations totalling about N10.48 trillion, yet findings indicate that many councils across the country are still not receiving their statutory allocations directly from the Federation Account. The Supreme Court had, in its July 11, 2024 judgment, ordered that allocations meant for democratically elected local governments be paid directly to them. The apex court also ruled against state governments retaining or spending funds belonging to councils and declared the administration of local governments by unelected caretaker committees unconstitutional. However, the expected financial revolution at the grassroots appears to have stalled. According to available allocation figures, local governments received about N4.496 trillion in the first 12 months following the judgment, while the figure increased to approximately N5.984 trillion in the following year — a rise of more than 33 per cent. Despite the significant increase, the National Union of Local Government Employees has maintained that full implementation of financial autonomy has yet to take effect nationwide. Reports from states including Kaduna, Kano, Benue, Sokoto and Plateau indicate that joint state-local government financial arrangements remain in operation, leaving many council administrations dependent on state authorities for access to funds. The development has renewed concerns over the ability of local governments to independently provide roads, healthcare facilities, schools, security support and other essential services desperately needed by communities. Jigawa State, however, has emerged as a notable exception, with officials claiming that its 27 local governments now receive allocations directly and operate independent accounts. The situation has now raised a bigger question: If over N10 trillion has been allocated to Nigeria’s local governments since the Supreme Court judgment, why are many councils still struggling to exercise genuine financial independence? For millions of Nigerians living at the grassroots, local government autonomy is more than a political or constitutional battle. It is about whether resources meant for their communities will finally translate into better roads, functioning health centres, improved schools, clean water and meaningful development. As the controversy continues, pressure is expected to mount on the Federal Government and relevant institutions to ensure that the judgment of Nigeria’s highest court is fully implemented. The battle for local government autonomy is far from over — and Nigerians are watching.
BLACKSOILTV News Beyond the Headlines.
Singer Bella Shmurda Breaks Down in Tears, Alleges $4m Lagos Property Scam. Nigerian music star Bella Shmurda has sparked concern among fans after breaking down in tears while alleging that he was defrauded of a staggering $4 million in a Lagos property deal. The singer, whose real name is Abiola Akinbiyi, made the emotional revelation during an Instagram Live session, claiming that he recently discovered that the property he paid millions of dollars to acquire allegedly did not legally belong to the person who sold it to him.
According to Bella Shmurda, the shocking discovery has left him devastated, especially after investing what he described as his hard-earned money into the property. The visibly emotional singer appealed for help as he explained that the individual allegedly responsible for selling him the property had disappeared after receiving payment.
Bella Shmurda said the situation had taken a heavy toll on him, expressing fears that he could lose the huge sum he had worked for over the years. The singer further revealed that he had contacted his lawyer and that investigations into the controversial property transaction were underway. However, Bella Shmurda did not publicly disclose the identity of the alleged seller or specific details about the Lagos property involved in the dispute. The development has once again drawn attention to the risks surrounding high-value real estate transactions in Lagos, where disputes involving property ownership, multiple sales and questionable documentation have remained a major concern. As of the time of this report, the allegations remain Bella Shmurda’s account of events, and no response from the unidentified seller has been reported. Fans and concerned Nigerians have continued to react to the singer’s emotional appeal, with many calling for a thorough investigation to establish exactly what happened and determine the true ownership status of the property. For Bella Shmurda, a musician who has risen from the streets of Lagos to become one of Nigeria’s recognised music stars, the alleged loss represents more than just a property dispute. His emotional reaction showed the personal weight of potentially losing money accumulated through years of work in the entertainment industry. Whether the singer will eventually recover the property or his money may now depend on the outcome of legal investigations and the documentation surrounding the transaction. The unfolding case is expected to attract further attention as Nigerians await more details from Bella Shmurda, his legal representatives and other parties connected to the alleged transaction.
BlacksoilTV will continue to monitor developments surrounding the alleged $4 million property scam.
TEARS, JOY AS ABDUCTED OYO PUPILS REUNITE WITH PARENTS AFTER 56 Days.
It was a powerful moment of tears, prayers and overwhelming joy in Ogbomoso, Oyo State, as schoolchildren and teachers rescued from kidnappers finally reunited with their families after spending 56 traumatic days in captivity. The emotional reunion took place at the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology Teaching Hospital, where anxious parents and relatives had gathered to receive their loved ones after they were medically cleared for discharge.
(more…)
Fake Agency Scandal: How IGP’s Special Forces Arrested Controversial DG in Osun HideoutThe high-profile fake federal agency scandal took another dramatic turn as operatives of the Nigeria Police Force’s Intelligence Response Team (IRT), operating under the Inspector-General of Police’s special tactical unit, arrested the self-acclaimed Director-General of the controversial Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIPC),
(more…)
Deadly Attack in Benue State Sparks Outrage, Fresh Calls for ActionBlacksoilTV News | BreakingFresh grief has once again enveloped Benue State following a deadly attack that claimed multiple lives in Otukpo Local Government Area, leaving families devastated and residents demanding urgent government intervention. The attack, which occurred during the weekend, triggered protests as angry youths and community members took to the streets, calling for improved security and an end to the recurring bloodshed in the state.
(more…)
The successful rescue of the pupils and teachers abducted from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State has sparked fresh debate over Nigeria’s security reputation and whether the operation signals a turning point for the country’s global image.
After 56 days in captivity, the victims were rescued in a coordinated intelligence-led operation involving the Nigerian Army, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Police Force. According to the Presidency, the operation secured the release of the hostages without concessions to the kidnappers, while eight suspects were arrested and others were neutralised.
(more…)
The creator economy has reached unprecedented heights in 2026, with the world’s biggest digital personalities earning fortunes that rival those of Hollywood stars, professional athletes, and top CEOs. From YouTube and TikTok to podcasts, merchandise, brand partnerships, and billion-dollar businesses, today’s creators are proving that content creation is no longer just a hobby—it’s one of the world’s most lucrative industries.
(more…)
THE BIGGEST ONGOING STORIES IN NIGERIANigeria’s news cycle remains dominated by major developments in politics, security, governance, and the economy, with several high-profile stories continuing to shape national conversations. As investigations deepen and government agencies respond, these are the issues commanding the country’s attention.Leading the headlines is the alleged fake federal agency scandal, a controversy that has sparked widespread public outrage. Authorities are investigating claims that a non-existent government body reportedly secured office space within the Federal Secretariat in Abuja and received a budget allocation running into billions of naira. The Presidency has ordered a full investigation, with anti-corruption agencies expected to determine how the alleged irregularities occurred and whether public funds were diverted. The outcome of the probe is expected to have far-reaching implications for transparency and accountability in government.Security also remains at the forefront of national discourse.
(more…)
The Nigerian military has recorded what security officials describe as one of its most significant victories against armed bandits in recent months, following a massive offensive that reportedly left more than 300 suspected criminals dead in Zamfara State.
The operation, which lasted for two days, was carried out in Gummi Local Government Area by troops of the Nigerian Army with support from local security volunteers and other intelligence assets. According to state authorities, security forces engaged a large group of heavily armed bandits in a fierce gun battle after receiving intelligence on their movement and activities within the area.
Officials disclosed that the operation targeted criminal groups responsible for a series of attacks, kidnappings, cattle rustling, and violent assaults on rural communities across Zamfara and neighbouring states. During the encounter, troops reportedly overpowered the armed gangs, forcing many of them to flee while hundreds were said to have been neutralised.
(more…)
NAF Airstrikes Kill Terrorists, Destroy Enclave in BornoThe Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has recorded another major success in the fight against insurgency after carrying out precision airstrikes that reportedly eliminated several terrorists and destroyed a suspected terrorist enclave in Borno State.
According to military authorities, the operation was launched after credible intelligence and aerial surveillance confirmed the presence of terrorist fighters and their logistics base in a remote part of the state. The air component of Operation Hadin Kai subsequently executed the strike, targeting key structures believed to be used for planning attacks and storing weapons.The Nigerian military said the bombardment resulted in the destruction of the enclave, with multiple terrorists neutralised and several operational assets destroyed. The operation is part of ongoing efforts to weaken the capabilities of insurgent groups operating in Nigeria’s North-East and prevent future attacks on both security personnel and civilians. Military officials described the mission as intelligence-driven and reaffirmed the Armed Forces’ commitment to sustaining pressure on terrorist groups until lasting peace is restored across the region. They also urged residents to continue providing timely and credible information that could assist security agencies in identifying terrorist hideouts and movement.The latest airstrike comes as security forces intensify coordinated land and air operations aimed at dismantling terrorist networks in Borno and neighbouring states. Analysts believe sustained military offensives, coupled with improved intelligence gathering and community cooperation, remain vital to ending insurgency in the region.As the fight against terrorism continues, authorities have reiterated their resolve to protect lives, secure communities and restore normalcy to areas that have suffered years of violent extremism.BlacksoilTV will continue to monitor developments and provide verified updates on Nigeria’s security operations.
TOP 10 NIGERIAN HEADLINES OF THE WEEK.
Nigeria witnessed another eventful week as politics, security, business and the economy dominated national conversations. Here are the ten biggest stories making headlines across the country.
1. Students Abducted in Oyo Regain Freedom. After more than 50 days in captivity, students kidnapped by armed militants in Oyo State were rescued in a security operation that also led to the arrest of several suspects.
2. Fake Federal Agency Scandal Rocks Abuja. A major controversy erupted after a phantom government agency allegedly secured office space inside the Federal Secretariat and received a ₦1.3 billion budget allocation, triggering multiple investigations.
3. Tinubu Orders Probe Into Phantom Agency. President Bola Tinubu directed anti-corruption authorities to investigate the alleged fake agency and submit a comprehensive report, promising accountability.
4. Reps Divided Over Move to Summon Tinubu. The House of Representatives witnessed a rowdy session as lawmakers clashed over a proposal seeking President Tinubu’s appearance before the National Assembly on budget implementation.
5. Nigeria Condemns Killing of Citizens in South Africa. The Federal Government demanded justice after two Nigerians lost their lives amid anti-migrant violence in South Africa, renewing concerns over xenophobic attacks.
6. ExxonMobil Commits $1 Billion to Nigeria. ExxonMobil and its partners announced a $1 billion investment in Nigeria’s offshore oil sector, a move expected to strengthen crude oil production and boost investor confidence.
7. Defence Minister Issues Tough Anti-Terror Order. Security forces were directed to take immediate action against terrorists and bandits without waiting for further approval, underscoring the government’s renewed security push.
8. EFCC Arraigns Former Refinery Boss. The anti-graft agency charged a former Port Harcourt refinery chief over alleged money laundering, adding to ongoing anti-corruption efforts.
9. NDLEA Intercepts Cocaine Hidden in Plantain Peels. A 67-year-old British-Nigerian woman was arrested at Lagos airport after authorities discovered cocaine concealed inside fake plantain peels destined for the United Kingdom.
10. Copyright Battle Targets Global Tech Giants. The Federal Government ordered regulators to investigate major technology companies, including AI platforms, over allegations involving copyright infringement and anti-competitive practices affecting Nigerian media organisations. From politics and anti-corruption investigations to security operations and major investment announcements, the week once again highlighted the opportunities and challenges shaping Nigeria’s future. As developments continue to unfold, Nigerians will be watching closely for the next chapter in these defining national stories.
Nigerians Killed in South Africa: FG Demands Justice as Anti-Migrant Violence EscalatesThe Federal Government of Nigeria has strongly condemned the killing of two Nigerian citizens during the recent wave of anti-migrant violence in South Africa, describing the incidents as unacceptable and calling for swift justice.
(more…)
2027 Presidency: Wike Rules Out PDP as VP Candidate EmergesNigeria’s political landscape is becoming increasingly charged as preparations for the 2027 presidential election gather momentum. Fresh developments within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have once again exposed the internal divisions threatening the party’s chances of reclaiming power.Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has openly expressed doubts about the PDP’s ability to mount a serious challenge in the 2027 presidential election.
(more…)
2027: Adelabu, Folarin, Others Hold Closed-Door Meeting in Oyo
Political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections gathered momentum in Oyo State as prominent leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC), including former Minister of Power Chief Adebayo Adelabu and former Senate Leader Senator Teslim Folarin, met behind closed doors with other party stakeholders in Ibadan.
(more…)
The Nigerian film industry continues to evolve, and YouTube has become one of the biggest platforms where Nollywood stars connect directly with millions of fans. Beyond traditional cinema releases, many actresses are now producing, starring in, and distributing movies online, attracting millions of views and building loyal audiences across Nigeria and the diaspora.
(more…)
Digital content creator Jimmy Donaldson, better known as MrBeast, has once again claimed the number one spot on the 2026 Forbes Top Creators list, reinforcing his position as the world’s highest-earning online personality.
According to Forbes, the world’s 50 biggest digital creators generated a combined $1.02 billion between March 2025 and March 2026—the first time the creator economy has crossed the $1 billion mark in annual earnings. The milestone highlights the explosive growth of social media creators, who are increasingly building businesses that rival traditional entertainment companies.
MrBeast led the rankings with an estimated $300 million in earnings. His rapidly expanding empire includes YouTube channels with hundreds of millions of subscribers, snack brand Feastables, software ventures, production companies, and the hit streaming competition series Beast Games. His success continues to demonstrate how creators are transforming online popularity into global business empires.
Coming in second was Dhar Mann, who earned an estimated $65 million, while entrepreneur and podcast host Steven Bartlett secured third place with $52 million. Popular gaming creator Markiplier ranked fourth with $38 million, followed by comedy duo Rhett & Link, who rounded out the top five with $37 million. The top ten also featured Codie Sanchez, Mark Rober, IShowSpeed, Druski, and Charli D’Amelio, reflecting the diversity of today’s creator economy across education, gaming, comedy, lifestyle, and entertainment.
Forbes noted that today’s creators are no longer relying solely on advertising revenue. Many now own consumer brands, streaming productions, technology companies, podcasts, and publishing ventures, allowing them to build multiple income streams beyond social media.
The publication also emphasized that its rankings are based not only on estimated earnings but also on audience size, engagement, and entrepreneurial success. As digital platforms continue to evolve, creators are becoming some of the most influential business figures in the world.
With another record-breaking year and a billion-dollar creator economy, the 2026 Forbes rankings underline one clear message: content creation has grown far beyond a hobby—it has become one of the world’s most powerful industries.
Top 10 Forbes Creators (2026):
Killings: FG Warns South Africa, Threatens Tough ActionThe Federal Government has issued a strong warning to over the reported killings of Nigerians living in the country, describing the repeated attacks as unacceptable and demanding immediate action to protect lives and property.According to government officials, Nigeria will no longer remain silent while its citizens continue to face violence, intimidation, and xenophobic attacks abroad.
(more…)
Excitement is building across Nigeria’s entertainment industry as The Return of Omotara Johnson, one of the year’s most anticipated Nollywood films, prepares for its nationwide cinema release on July 10, 2026. The highly anticipated sequel marks the return of veteran actress Bukky Wright to one of the most memorable characters of her career, rekindling nostalgia among longtime fans while introducing a new generation to the legendary Omotara Johnson story. Nearly two decades after the original film became a household favourite, the sequel promises a fresh chapter filled with suspense, emotion, betrayal, and redemption. This time, Omotara Johnson finds herself haunted by the consequences of her past as new secrets emerge and old enemies return, threatening the peaceful life she has struggled to build.Directed by Adeoluwa Owu and produced by Taiwo Adebayo, the film features an impressive ensemble cast, including Richard Mofe-Damijo, Shaffy Bello, Chidi Mokeme, Ali Nuhu, Timini Egbuson, Nse Ikpe-Etim, Lilian Esoro, and several other Nollywood stars. The combination of veteran actors and younger talents has heightened expectations that the movie could become one of the biggest box-office successes of 2026.Ahead of its nationwide release, the movie has already generated massive buzz through premiere events in Abuja and Lagos, attracting celebrities, filmmakers, and entertainment enthusiasts. Producers have also made the original Omotara Johnson available on Bukky Wright’s official YouTube channel, giving fans the opportunity to relive the classic before watching the sequel. An updated soundtrack featuring gospel singer Tope Alabi and Ojayy Wright has further fueled anticipation.Industry observers believe the film represents more than just another cinema release. It reflects Nollywood’s growing trend of reviving beloved classics while adapting them for today’s audience. By blending nostalgia with modern storytelling and high production quality, The Return of Omotara Johnson is expected to appeal to both loyal fans and first-time viewers.Movie lovers have already taken to social media to express their excitement, with many describing Bukky Wright’s comeback as one of the biggest moments in Nollywood this year. Fans are particularly eager to see how the legendary character evolves and whether the sequel can live up to the reputation of the original film.As the countdown to July 10 continues, expectations remain sky-high. If early reactions are anything to go by, The Return of Omotara Johnson could become one of the defining Nollywood releases of 2026 and another milestone in the remarkable career of Bukky Wright.BlacksoilTV will continue to bring you the latest updates on Nollywood premieres, celebrity news, blockbuster releases, and the stories shaping Africa’s thriving entertainment industry.
WhatsApp is preparing to introduce usernames, a feature that will allow users to connect without sharing their phone numbers. Instead of giving out a personal number, users will be able to share a unique username, making it easier and more private to start conversations.
Olori Abimbs Collections Fashion and Me: The Beauty of Beads Fashion is a way of expressing who we are through our appearance. It includes the clothes we wear, the shoes we choose, and the accessories we use to complete our look. To me, fashion is more than following trends; it is about confidence, creativity, and …
Babcock, You’ll Pay N100,000 Before You See Me — Carter Efe Nigerian comedian and singer **** has stirred reactions online after joking that anyone from **** who wants to meet him must first pay ₦100,000.
World Cup: 1,400 Illegal Streaming Sites Lose Ad Revenue in Piracy Crackdown More than 1,400 illegal streaming websites have been hit in a major anti-piracy operation aimed at protecting the commercial value of the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup. The crackdown targeted websites and online platforms that illegally broadcast World Cup matches without obtaining the …
Cooking Gas Prices Ease as Supply Improves in Nigeria Relief may finally be on the way for millions of Nigerian households as the price of cooking gas, also known as Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), has begun to decline following improved supply across the country.
Rampaging Soldiers Invade UNIOSUN Hostels, Assault Students, Seize Phones Students of (UNIOSUN) were left in fear and confusion after armed soldiers reportedly stormed student hostels in the early hours of the day, assaulting occupants and confiscating mobile phones during the operation.
NYSC Reforms: All You Need to Know About the New Six-Week Orientation and 11 Specialised Streams The Federal Government has approved a major overhaul of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), marking the most comprehensive reform of the scheme since it was established in 1973. The reforms are aimed at making the programme more relevant …
JUST IN: Veteran Yoruba Actor, Elegbeje Ado, Dies After Brief Illness The Nigerian movie industry has been thrown into mourning following the death of veteran Yoruba actor and filmmaker Pastor Taiwo Adeshina, popularly known as Elegbeje Ado.
FULL LIST: Cardi B, Teyana Taylor, Kendrick Lamar Shine at 2026 BET Awards The 2026 BET Awards delivered another memorable celebration of Black excellence, with music, film and sports stars honoured for their outstanding achievements over the past year. Held at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, the ceremony featured electrifying performances, emotional speeches and …
Drake Wins $1m World Cup Bet After Canada Knock Out South Africa Canadian rap superstar Drake has won more than $1 million after successfully backing his home country, Canada, to defeat South Africa in the Round of 32 at the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Ex-Miss Universe Chidimma Adetshina Faces Fresh Deportation Battle in South Africa Former Miss Universe Nigeria and Miss Universe Africa and Oceania, Chidimma Adetshina, has found herself at the centre of another legal battle in South Africa, where authorities are reportedly seeking her deportation over alleged immigration violations.
Police comb forest after terrorists abduct NECO students in BornoSecurity agencies have launched an intensive search operation in the forests surrounding Lassa, in Askira/Uba Local Government Area of Borno State, following the abduction of an unspecified number of students writing the National Examinations Council (NECO) Senior School Certificate Examination by suspected terrorists. The attack has …
World Cup 2026: Messi Named Best Footballer of All Time Lionel Messi has received fresh praise during the 2026 FIFA World Cup after teammate Giuliano Simeone described him as the greatest footballer of all time. The statement has reignited the long-running debate over football’s greatest player, with many fans and pundits pointing to Messi’s remarkable …
Argentine Footballer Loses Wife, Two Children in Venezuela EarthquakeThe football community has been thrown into mourning following reports that an Argentine footballer lost his wife and two children in the devastating earthquake that struck Venezuela. The tragedy is among the many heartbreaking stories emerging from the disaster, which has claimed hundreds of lives and left …
Five-Month Crude Oil Exports Earn Nigeria N20tnNigeria generated about N20 trillion from crude oil exports in the first five months of the year, highlighting the continued importance of the petroleum sector to the country’s economy. The earnings were driven by improved crude oil production, relatively stable international oil prices, and sustained demand from global buyers.
Arsenal sanctioned after UEFA Champions League final as PSG also issued punishment UEFA has sanctioned Arsenal following the 2026 UEFA Champions League final, while Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) have also been handed disciplinary measures over incidents linked to the showpiece event. According to UEFA, the sanctions relate to breaches of its disciplinary regulations during and around …
US lawmaker proposes bill to ban immigration from three African countries A United States lawmaker has proposed legislation that would ban immigration from three African countries—Somalia, Sudan, and South Sudan—citing national security concerns and the need to protect American communities. The proposal, introduced by Republican Congresswoman Nancy Mace, has already sparked debate among politicians, immigration …
Relief in Sight: Tomato Prices Expected to Drop by August, Say Kaduna Farmers Relief is on the horizon for Nigerian households grappling with skyrocketing food costs. The Tomatoes Growers and Processors Association of Nigeria (TOPAN) has assured consumers that the current high prices of tomatoes are expected to decline considerably starting in August, driven by …
The knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup is officially set, with football fans around the world preparing for an exciting Round of 32 featuring some of the biggest names in the game alongside a number of surprise qualifiers. Following an intense group stage, 32 nations have earned the right to continue their quest …
