Category: African News

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Nigeria's Super Falcons eye win over Algeria in WAFCON Group B
by Football Sierra Leone

Nigeria’s Super Falcons eye win over Algeria in WAFCON Group B

Nigeria vs Algeria WAFCON- Super Falcons Target 3rd Win

The Nigeria vs Algeria WAFCON showdown kicks off this Sunday at Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca, with both teams fighting for top spots in Group B of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.

Nigeria vs Algeria WAFCON – Key Battle for Group B Supremacy

The Super Falcons, Nigeria’s women’s team, are in top form — winning 1-0 over Botswana and 3-0 against Tunisia. With these two strong performances, they sit first in the group and have already secured a place in the knockout stage. Now, they are targeting a 3rd big win to close the group on a high note.

Algeria, however, remain undefeated too. They drew 0-0 with Tunisia and beat Botswana 1-0. Sitting second in the group, the Algerian women’s team can also reach the WAFCON 2024 quarter-finals if they manage to avoid defeat against Nigeria.

The head to head record heavily favors Nigeria, who have beaten Algeria in all four of their previous meetings. Their latest clash was a friendly match in October 2024, where the Super Falcons won 4-1 underlining their dominance in this fixture.

This Group B WAFCON battle is more than just about advancing it’s about momentum, pride, and setting the tone for the knockout stage. With both sides showing defensive strength and attacking promise, Sunday’s WAFCON fixture could be a thrilling decider.

Guinea named 23-man African Nations Championship (CHAN) squad
by FSL News

Guinea named 23-man African Nations Championship (CHAN) squad

Ibrahima Sory Sankhon, a seasoned midfielder, is one of the standout players in Guinea’s final 23-man squad for the forthcoming TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024.

As Guinea looks to build on their 2020 tournament semi-final run, coach Souleymane Camara announced the team on Friday, confirming a well-rounded roster that includes both young talent and seasoned local players.

As part of the nation’s intense preparations for the tournament, which begins on August 2, 2025, the players are currently going through a rigorous training program in a military camp in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.

The Syli National is placed in Group C, which is arguably one of the competition’s most competitive pools, along with South Africa, Uganda, Niger, and Algeria.

Sankhon, who joined AS Kaloum after returning home in January, is anticipated to provide leadership and stability to the midfield. He is accompanied by Lansana Sylla (Horoya AC), Ousmane Dramé (Hafia FC), and Mohamed Madani Diarra (SAG Siguiri) in a central unit that sets the pace and directs play.

The attacking lineup for Guinea features notable players like Mohamed Lamine Youla (Renaissance FC), Bourhane Camara (RCC Kamsar), and Moussa Moïse Camara (Wakriya AC), aiming to bolster the team’s offense in the tournament.

The defensive unit, consisting of nine players including Kabinet Kouyaté (Hafia FC) and Bangaly Cissé (ASM Sangarédi), focuses on strength and unity to withstand tough competition.

Goalkeeping duties will be shared among Mamadou Yéro Diallo (Renaissance FC), Mory Keïta (Hafia FC), and Ousmane Camara (Flamme Olympique), all of whom come with solid domestic form.

Coach Camara’s team is set to head to East Africa soon for final preparations, looking to make a strong impact on the continental stage. 

Ghana's disappointing WAFCON draw against Mali
by Football Sierra Leone

Ghana’s disappointing WAFCON draw against Mali

Ghana’s WAFCON 2024 quarterfinal hopes remain uncertain after a 1-1 draw with West African rivals Mali in a tense Group C clash at Stade Municipal de Berkane on Friday.

The Ghanaian women’s national team started strong and looked set to claim all three points, but Mali responded with resilience, equalizing in the second half to keep their own hopes alive. The result now puts Ghana’s TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations journey in serious doubt.

⚽ Match Overview

  • 🏆 Tournament: WAFCON 2024

  • 🏟️ Venue: Stade Municipal de Berkane

  • 📅 Date: Friday, 11.07.2026

  • ⚽ Final Score: Ghana 1–1 Mali

  • 🥅 Group: Group C

Both teams now face a tough final group-stage match, with the quarterfinal qualification on the line. Ghana must secure a win in their next game to keep their tournament dreams alive.

🔎 Ghana’s Position in Group C

The draw leaves Ghana qualification shaky in Group C, with only the top two teams progressing to the knockout stage, the Leone Queens will need to deliver a strong performance in their final group match.

A goal in each half from Alice Kusi and Aïssata Traoré allowed both teams to leave with a point in a game neither could afford to lose but would feel they might have won.

Under pressure following a dismal 2-0 loss to South Africa in their opening match, the Black Queens arrived in this encounter and started fast.

In the sixth minute, Kusi took advantage of ongoing exertion to fire home from close range following a barely missed header by Doris Boaduwaa, rewarding their early control.

Mali, who had narrowly defeated Tanzania in their opener, seemed shaken but progressively developed into the game; their attacking trio of Saratou Traoré, Aïssata Traoré and Agueissa Diarra was always dangerous on the break.

Before halftime, Ghana had a missed flurry of opportunities to increase its advantage. Kusi and Evelyn Badu were close, as were Boaduwaa, but a mix of poor finishing and superb goalkeeping from Fatoumata Karentao denied them all.

Mali equalised in the 52nd minute when Aïssata Traoré scored after an incisive pass from Saratou Traoré.

The game opened up as Ghana pressed for a winner, with Princella Adubea, Grace Asantewaa, and Jennifer Cudjoe threatening but unable to convert. Despite controlling possession, Ghana couldn’t secure a victory and now sits on one point heading into their final group match.

In contrast, Mali’s result gives them four points and keeps them in the running for a quarterfinal spot. Both teams faced disappointment in this crucial clash, underscoring the fierce competition in WAFCON’s Group of Death.

Douala-born Christian Michel Kofane signs for Bayer Leverkusen
by FSL News

Douala-born Christian Michel Kofane signs for Bayer Leverkusen

Confirming the move on Friday, Bayer 04 Leverkusen has signed 18-year-old striker Christian Michel Kofane from Albacete.

Hailing from Douala, Cameroon, Kofane is the most recent young African talent to join the German team following an impressive season in Spain’s La Liga 2.

Kofane began with Albacete’s junior team and was promoted to the senior team in January. Two minutes into his professional debut in a 22 draw against Racing Santander on January 11, he scored.

He was then often the first-choice striker for Albacete and played in every match he could. With eight goals over 20 games in the second half of the 2024–25 season, he helped the team finish 10th in La Liga 2.

With the physical characteristics of a contemporary striker, Kofane shows good reflexes and composure on the field. It will be intriguing to observe how Leverkusen nurtures him and whether they will retain him or send him out on loan for the 2025–26 season.

Ghana's Mohammed Kudus delighted after joining Tottenham
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Ghana’s Mohammed Kudus delighted after joining Tottenham

Mohammed Kudus, an international from Ghana, has said he is happy following his move from West Ham United to Tottenham Hotspur for an alleged £54.5 million.

A long-term contract has brought Spurs’ 24-year-old midfielder. Kudus contributed eight goals in the Premier League last year. He is currently the highest Ghanaian player ever in terms of cost.

As Tottenham begins a fresh era under coach Thomas Frank, he is the fifth player to arrive this summer.

Along with centre-backs Luka Vuskovic and Kota Takai, Kudus follows Mathys Tel and Kevin Danso, who both signed permanently after loan stints.

Kudus said he was eager to join the club. He stated, “I have always wanted to play at the highest level.” This is a significant event; I am glad to be here and look forward to beginning. He was drawn to Spurs by the possibility of collaborating with Frank. The most significant factors I travelled here, Kudus pointed out, are the project and how the manager views my growth.

Kudus scored 19 goals and assisted 13 more in 80 games for West Ham after transferring from Ajax in 2023. He has shown up 65 times in the Premier League and has contributed 25 goals. With 42 appearances for Ghana, he scored 12 goals as an international player.

Sunderland sign Ivorian star player Simon Adingra
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Sunderland sign Ivorian star player Simon Adingra

Sunderland FC has formally revealed the permanent transfer of brilliant winger Simon Adingra from Brighton and Hove Albion.

The 23-year-old global from the Ivory Coast has made the transfer for a reported £21 million, agreeing to a five-year deal at the Stadium of Light.

Originally from FC Nordsjælland, a Danish club renowned for nurturing young talent, Adingra first joined Brighton in 2022. While on loan at Belgian club Royale Union Saint-Gilloise in the 202223 season, he gained priceless experience that helped them to campaign noticeably.

He appeared in 29 games last season in the Premier League, displaying his ability by scoring two goals and giving two assists to his teammates.

Looking to have a big influence in the English Football League, Adingra’s career is at a thrilling fresh start with this move to Sunderland.

DR Congo's  Noah Sadiki pens Sunderland's long-term deal
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

DR Congo’s Noah Sadiki pens Sunderland’s long-term deal

Sunderland has confirmed their new acquisition DR Congo International Noah Sadiki on a five-year deal at the Stadium of Light and becomes the third summer sigings ahead of the Premier League season.

Having been instrumental in their historic 2024–25 Belgian championship win, the adaptable midfielder arrives on Wearside from Royale Union SaintGilloise for an unknown sum.

Before joining Union SG in 2023, the 20-year-old already has 140 senior appearances under his belt and represented R.S.C. Anderlecht.

 

He stated: “I am grateful to everyone for their welcome in Sunderland. Though this Club is large, talking to the people persuaded me. They discussed their belief in my role, the history, and their wish for construction.

I’ll add duels, forward runs, track back, and passion. First and foremost, I seek victory; hence, I carry this wish everywhere I walk onto the field. My team is now this one, and I am very satisfied with my choice.

Born in Brussels, Sadiki joined Anderlecht at six and climbed through the RSCA levels before Head Coach Vincent Kompany noticed him and chose him for two friendly games in October 2021 and January 2022.

Featuring 12 times in the Jupiler Pro League during the 202223 season and five times in the UEFA Conference League, he also played for RSCA Futures, Anderlecht’s second team, in the Challenger Pro League, Belgium’s second division.

Banda nets twice as Zambia beat Senegal in five-goal thriller
by FSL News

Banda nets twice as Zambia beat Senegal in five-goal thriller

With a 3-2 victory over Senegal in Group A on Wednesday at Stade El Bachir in Mohammedia, Zambia made a strong statement in their quest for the title at the TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.

The game was exciting, full of action, strong shots, and instances of personal brilliance. Having twice encountered a tough Senegalese squad, the Copper Queens showed their resolve to grab all three points.

Following a lacklustre 2-2 draw with hosts Morocco in their opening, Zambia understood they needed this victory, and they produced. Scoring just five minutes in, with star player Nguenar Ndiaye finding the net thanks to a pass from Méta Kandé, Senegal surprised them.

Zambia responded quickly, with Captain Barbra Banda equalising in the 12th minute after a pass from Racheal Kundananji. They took the lead just six minutes into the second half when Kundananji scored in the 51st minute 

Banda’s brace came in the 73rd minute, widening Zambia’s lead. Senegal had a chance to come back when Ndiaye scored from a penalty in the 80th minute, narrowing the lead to 3-2.

In extra time, Senegal pressured with corners and attempts, but Zambia’s goalkeeper, Ng’ambo Musole, made crucial saves to secure the victory. With this win, Zambia sits on four points in Group A as they aim for their final group match, demonstrating their intent to be title contenders.

Racheal Kundananji named Woman of the Match
Racheal Kundananji named Woman of the Match
New Everton's deal for Senegal international Idrissa Gana Gueye
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

New Everton’s deal for Senegal international Idrissa Gana Gueye

With the option for another year, Senegal international Idrissa Gana Gueyehas signed a new one-year deal with Everton to stay until June 2026.

Winning the Club’s Player of the Season and the Players’ Player of the Season accolades, Gueye had a remarkable 2024–25 season.

Gueye said: “Everyone knows what Everton means to my family and me following his contract. This club is more than merely a place I play; it’s part of who I am after six seasons here. Beginning my seventh year as a Blue brings me great pride. I am ready and more driven than I have ever been last season.

“This season is significant given our new stadium and momentum.” We have the opportunity to construct something significant. To once again raise the bar and bring Everton back where it should be, we need to collaborate—players, coaches, the manager, the board, and our fans. I completely support that challenge. Let’s start over together.

Manager David Moyes of Everton was pleased to extend Gueye’s contract, noting, “We are excited Idrissa has left. Given many new players and the new stadium, his familiarity with the Club will be rather important. Idrissa will help everybody integrate.”

Gueye will increase his 211 Everton appearances made since joining from Aston Villa in August 2016. After three years with Paris Saint Germain, he came back to the club in 2022.

Mali edge Tanzania as South Africa defeat Ghana in WAFCON
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Mali edge Tanzania as South Africa defeat Ghana in WAFCON

On Monday night, Mali narrowly defeated Tanzania 10 in Group C TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

Following a set piece, Saratou Traoré scored with a composed shot from the centre of the box during stoppage time in the first half to become the only goal of the game.

In a game when both sides generated chances but had trouble turning them into goals, this objective became the deciding moment.

Tanzania had several scoring opportunities in the second half, including a header from Stumai Athumani that Mali’s goalkeeper, Fatoumata Karentao, saved. Elizabeth Chenge also had an opportunity, but offside calls presented problems.

Tanzania had many scoring possibilities in the second half, including a header from Stumai Athumani saved by Mali’s goalkeeper, Fatoumata Karentao. Although Elizabeth Chenge also had an opportunity, Tanzania struggled with offside judgments.

Mali played defensively; Karentao made important saves to protect their lead. Tanzania argued for an equalizer during stoppage time and won late free kicks, but Donisia Minja’s shot in the 95th minute went over the goal.

Ultimately, Mali grabbed the victory by remaining steady and grabbing their chances, therefore raising their position in the competition.

Early on, in their Group C opening in Oujda on Monday, reigning champions South Africa got their 2025 TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations going with a 20 victory against Ghana.

The first 35 minutes saw the goals by Linda Motlhalo and Jermaine Seoposenwe, which helped Banyana Banyana demonstrate they are formidable title contenders in the larger 12-team competition.

Day three of the Women's Cup of Nations results
Day three of the Women's Cup of Nations results