Month: May 2025

Sierra Leone’s Aminata Fullah set for WAFCON Preparation Course
by Football Sierra Leone

Sierra Leone’s Aminata Fullah set for WAFCON Preparation Course

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially extended an invitation to Aminata Fullah, one of Sierra Leone’s most distinguished central referees, to partake in the prestigious Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) Preparation Course in Egypt.

Scheduled to take place from May 25th to May 29th, 2025, this essential course is part of CAF’s unwavering commitment to uphold and enhance officiating standards ahead of the highly anticipated WAFCON tournament.

This significant invitation not only underscores Aminata Fullah’s exceptional talent but also marks a proud milestone for Sierra Leonean football, demonstrating the increasing acknowledgment and appreciation of our officials on the continental stage.

The referee from Magburaka is now seen as one of the best in Sierra Leone. She is known for being decisive and handling pressure confidently and professionally. These qualities have helped her officiate matches in both the senior men’s and women’s leagues in Sierra Leone.

CAF recognised one of Sierra Leone's finest female referees Aminata Fullah
CAF recognised one of Sierra Leone's finest female referees Aminata Fullah
Morocco got off to a winning start in U20 AFCON
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Morocco edge Kenya in five-goal thriller Group Opener

Morocco started their campaign in the TotalEnergies CAF U20 Africa Cup of Nations, Egypt 2025, with a thrilling 3-2 win against Kenya in Group B on Thursday night at the 30 June Stadium in Cairo.

Morocco had to come from behind twice to secure the victory in an exciting match that highlighted the intensity of youth football in Africa. Kenya, participating in the U20 AFCON for the first time since 1979, began strongly. In the 16th minute, Lawrence Ouma scored with a header from Kevin Injehu’s well-placed free kick, celebrating with great joy.

Morocco equalized just before halftime. A scramble in the box allowed Yassir Zabiri to score, and after a brief review by VAR due to possible infringement, the goal was confirmed. This made the score 1-1 at halftime.

The second half was even more dramatic. Just ten minutes in, Zabiri scored again with a sharp header, giving Morocco a 2-1 lead. Kenya responded in the 71st minute. Hassan Beja scored from the center of the box after good teamwork with Aldrine Kibet, leveling the match at 2-2.

Morocco pressed on and regained the lead in the 78th minute. Reda Laalaoui received a clever pass from Saad El Haddad and calmly scored, making it 3-2.

In the 89th minute, Morocco earned a penalty, but Othmane Maamma’s shot was saved by Kenyan keeper Baron Ochieng, keeping Kenya’s hopes alive. Kenya fought hard for an equalizer and came close in stoppage time when Aldrine Kibet’s header hit the post. Despite this, Morocco held on for three important points and topped the group after Matchday 1.

Kenya can take many positives from this match, particularly their fearless and creative attack. Morocco showed composure and experience at key moments and will feel confident going into their next match.

Nigeria start U20 AFCON with a win over Tunisia
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Nigeria start U20 AFCON with a win over Tunisia

Nigeria got off to a winning start in their quest for an eighth TotalEnergies CAF U20 Africa Cup of Nations title, overcoming Tunisia 1-0 in a tightly contested Group B opener at the 30 June Air Defence Stadium in Cairo on Thursday.

Auwal Ibrahim scored in the first half, securing Nigeria’s win. The Flying Eagles played well in the early stages, creating several chances, but Tunisia was strong on defence. In the 38th minute, Odinaka Okoro assisted Ibrahim, who scored from close range to give Nigeria the lead.

Nigeria secured a 1-0 victory over Tunisia in their U-20 AFCON opener, thanks to a first-half goal from Auwal Ibrahim in the 38th minute. Despite controlling the match early on, Nigeria faced a resilient Tunisian side that made late attempts to equalize, nearly scoring through Omar Ben Ali and Anis Doubal. Tunisia’s best chance came in the 87th minute but was denied by Nigeria’s defense and goalkeeper.

The game saw six yellow cards shared between both teams, highlighting its intensity. Nigeria’s midfield, led by Divine Oliseh and Clinton Jephta, played a crucial role in holding control, although the second half saw an increase in fouls.

With this win, Nigeria gains three important points in a group that also includes Morocco and Kenya, while Tunisia faces pressure heading into their next match.

Nigeria, the most successful team in U-20 AFCON history with seven titles, has now gone unbeaten in eight of their last ten tournament openers. Tunisia, however, continues their winless streak against West African teams since 1987.