Author: Alie Bittar @bittar32

Mohamed Salah wins it for Egypt in added time
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Mohamed Salah grabs an added-time winner for Egypt

Mohamed Salah scored in the dying moments of stoppage time as Egypt began their Africa Cup of Nations journey with a slender 2-1 win over Zimbabwe in their group match on Monday.

The Liverpool forward had minimal impact for much of the game but became crucial at the end, converting from close range to secure a hard-earned three points for the Pharaohs.

Egypt started the match strongly but missed several clear chances created by Trezeguet, Salah, and Emam Ashour. Zimbabwe capitalised on this, with Prince Dube scoring in the 20th minute from an unmarked position.

Despite close calls for a second goal, Egypt’s defence held firm. Coach Hossam Hassan made a tactical change in the 33rd minute, bringing on Mostafa Mohamed, shifting Omar Marmoush to an attacking midfield role. Marmoush had two attempts before halftime but couldn’t score.

After the break, Egypt intensified their efforts, with Marmoush and Mohamed both being denied opportunities until Mohamed equalised in the 64th minute with a close-range shot.

Hassan introduced further offensive players, creating urgency for Egypt. Just as the match appeared headed for a draw, Salah scored in stoppage time from a rebound, securing a 2-1 victory for Egypt.

This win placed Egypt at the top of their group with three points, tied with South Africa, which had also defeated Angola. Egypt’s next match is against South Africa, while Zimbabwe faces Angola.

Egypt's Omar Marmoush receives the TotalEnergies Man of the Match accolade for his impressive goal and performance.
Egypt's Omar Marmoush receives the TotalEnergies Man of the Match accolade for his impressive goal and performance.
South Africa beat Angola in AFCON Group B opener
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

A winning start for South Africa over Angola in AFCON Group B opener

South Africa started their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a 2-1 victory over Angola in the opening match of Group B in Marrakech, Morocco. Burnley striker Lyle Foster scored the winning goal 11 minutes before the end of the game.

Hugo Broos’ side began the match strongly and took the lead when Oswin Appollis scored with a low shot into the bottom-left corner. Angola responded about 15 minutes later when Show turned in a cross from Fredy to level the match at halftime.

In the second half, South Africa thought they had scored again when Tshepang Moremi hit a powerful shot into the bottom corner. However, VAR disallowed the goal because he was offside.

As South Africa pressed for the winner, Mbekizile Mbokazi came close with a long-range shot that hit the crossbar.

Minutes later, Moremi set up Lyle Foster, whose powerful shot into the top corner secured the win for South Africa, putting them temporarily at the top of the group, ahead of Egypt’s match against Zimbabwe.

Man of the match: Lyle Foster (South Africa)

Patson Daka's late heeder salvage a point for Zambia against Mali
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Patson Daka’s late header salvages a point for Zambia against Mali

Zambia kicked off their Group A campaign with a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Mali in their Africa Cup of Nations match on Monday.

Lassine Sinayoko gave Mali the lead early on, but Zambia’s Chipolopolo struck back with a last-gasp goal to level the score.

Both teams entered the match knowing how crucial a win would be, but it was the West African side that managed to take the first initiative at the Mohammed V Stadium in Casablanca.

However, Zambia’s Patson Daka’s header was enough to secure a point for Zambia, leaving Morocco at the top of the group.

This encounter marked the first time the two sides faced each other since 2022, when El Bilal Toure scored the only goal to give Mali a 1-0 victory.

Zambia last lifted the trophy in 2012 after defeating the Ivory Coast on penalties, but they struggled in the last edition in 2023, failing to secure a single win.

They’ll need to build on this tie when they face Comoros on Boxing Day, whilst 1972 runners-up Mali battle it out with host Morocco later that evening.

Morocco open Cup of Nations 2025 with win over Comoros
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Morocco open Cup of Nations 2025 with a win over Comoros

On Sunday, Morocco commenced their campaign in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations with a 2-0 victory over Comoros, with goals scored by Brahim Díaz and Ayoub El Kaabi at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.

Morocco employed a 4-3-3 formation, although manager Walid Regragui made the surprising decision to exclude several prominent players from the starting lineup.

In contrast, Comoros coach Stefano Cusin opted for a more traditional approach, retaining veteran leadership led by captain Youssouf M’Changama.

From the outset, Morocco dominated possession, while Comoros remained steadfast in their defensive strategy. The game nearly saw an early breakthrough in the 9th minute when Morocco was awarded a penalty after Imsane M’Madi fouled Brahim Díaz, who had cleverly drawn contact in the penalty area.

However, Comoros goalkeeper Yannick Pandor made a remarkable save, diving correctly to prevent Soufiane Rahimi from converting the opportunity.

Morocco faced an early challenge in the 18th minute when captain Romain Saïss suffered a muscle injury and was replaced by Jawad El Yamiq. The first yellow card was issued in the 36th minute to Yannick Kari for a tackle on Azzedine Ounahi.

Tensions rose before halftime due to a VAR review in the 44th minute, resulting in no penalty after Díaz was ruled to have handled the ball.

In the second half, Díaz received a yellow card in the 48th minute for a late challenge, but he scored in the 55th minute, converting a low cross from Noussair Mazraoui for the opening goal.

Four minutes later, goalkeeper Yassine Bounou made a vital save from a shot by Said Bakari. In the 65th minute, Morocco made key substitutions, with Ayoub El Kaabi being introduced for Soufiane Rahimi. El Kaabi then scored a spectacular overhead kick in the 74th minute from a cross by Salah-Eddine Mraouni, furthering Morocco’s lead.

Morocco managed the final minutes effectively, making additional substitutions. They look to maintain this momentum into their next match against Mali on December 26th, while Comoros prepares for a critical game against Zambia.

Monday, December 22nd Fixtures:

  • Mali vs. Zambia
  • South Africa vs. Angola
  • Egypt vs. Zimbabwe
Ayoub El Kaabi classic overkicked at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat
Ayoub El Kaabi's classic overhead goal at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat
African Cup of Nations may be rescheduled to December 2025
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

The Africa Cup of Nations will occur every four years after 2028 tournament

The president of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Patrice Motsepe, announced a significant restructuring of the continent's international football scene on Saturday, January 20.


As part of this overhaul, he announced that the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) will now be held every four years, with the first edition scheduled for 2028. This marks a major shift from the previous biennial format.

Motsepe announced at a press conference in Rabat, Morocco, that the AFCON is being adapted to better align with the global football calendar. The introduction of an annual African Nations League will help bridge financial gaps for national associations.

“Our main priority is this AFCON,” he stated, mentioning future tournaments in Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda for 2027 and 2028. The first African Nations League will launch after the 2029 FIFA Club World Cup, offering more prize money and competition.

Historically held every two years since 1957, the AFCON has struggled to secure its place in the global schedule. This year’s tournament in Morocco is the eighth edition since its return in 2012.

Mo Salah's Egypt to open AFCON 2025 against Zimbabwe
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Mo Salah’s Egypt to open AFCON 2025 against Zimbabwe

In Group B, the Pharaohs of Egypt are gearing up for an exciting opener against the Zimbabwe Warriors, set to take place at the Adrar Stadium in Agadir, located in the Souss-Massa region of Morocco, on Monday.

As a benchmark nation in African football, Egypt holds a distinguished position in the history of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Having claimed the inaugural title in 1957, the Pharaohs have cemented their status as the continent’s most successful team, with seven championships and an impressive 26 tournament appearances to their name.

On the other hand, Zimbabwe will be participating in their sixth tournament since 2004. With both teams keen on securing a positive start, the atmosphere is sure to be charged and competitive.

Tawanda Chirewa has expressed his hope to deliver a strong performance in the Warriors’ opening match against Egypt in Group B of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) on Monday.

The winger is part of the Zimbabwe national team that will participate in the prestigious tournament. In a conversation with his club, Wolves, Chirewa discussed the Warriors’ prospects at AFCON and his own goals for the competition.

He stated, “I have confidence that we’re going to surprise many nations and people with our performance, so I’m focused on getting myself fully prepared. This tournament is my first significant competition, and I aim to showcase to the world the talent of Zimbabwe.”

Chirewa continued: “I recognise that this is important for my family’s reputation, and I aspire to become an excellent player for Zimbabwe, to be a legend for my country, which is a goal I’m passionate about and truly believe I can achieve.

AFCON represents a crucial step in that journey, and if I can contribute to helping us advance as far as possible in the tournament, I know that I’ll be progressing toward my aspirations for my country.”

South Africa and Angola are among the nations in this group that are anticipated to advance to the knockout stages.

Tough AFCON 2025 start for Comoros against host Morocco
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Tough AFCON 2025 start for Comoros against host Morocco

On Sunday. host Morocco kick off their Africa Cup of Nations this weekend, with a tough match against Comoros at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.

Comoros head coach Stefano Cusin has chosen a stable team, adding two important new players for the tournament in Morocco.

He kept the majority of his kley players from the AFCON and 2026 World Cup qualifiers, showing his commitment to continuity as Comoros aims to become one of Africa’s rising teams again.

Comoros are in the tournament for only the second time in their history after they dominated AFCON qualifying, failing to lose any of their six matches, even defeating World Cup-bound Tunisia in Tunis.

Comoros and Tunisia were the group winners and runners-up respectively, qualified for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

However, the host team is known for its stylish football, and they are the favourites to win this opening match of AFCON. The Morocco captain’s race to overcome injury headlines around this edition of the AFCON, which runs until 18 January.

Group A certainly presents a tough challenge, featuring host nation Morocco alongside Comoros, Zambia, and Mali. This edition in Morocco marks the 35th African Cup of Nations.

Group A certainly presents a tough challenge, featuring host nation Morocco alongside Comoros, Zambia, and Mali. This edition in Morocco marks the 35th African Cup of Nations.
Group A certainly presents a tough challenge, featuring host nation Morocco alongside Comoros, Zambia, and Mali. This edition in Morocco marks the 35th African Cup of Nations.
Comoros in the tournament for only second time in their history after they dominated AFCON qualifiers
Comoros in the tournament for only second time in their history after they dominated AFCON qualifiers
FC Nürnberg part ways with  Crystal Palace youngster Hindolo Mustapha
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

FC Nürnberg part ways with Palace youngster Hindolo Mustapha

FC Nürnberg and Hindolo Mustapha have mutually decided to part ways after just six months, as the club announced this afternoon.

The 19-year-old’s loan spell with the 2. Bundesliga side has been cut short. Unfortunately, Mustapha did not make any professional appearances during his time at Nürnberg and will be returning to Crystal Palace for now.

“Hindolo clearly possesses talent, but things didn’t play out as we had all hoped at 1. FC Nürnberg. It was also important for the player’s future to clear things up early on and reach a solution that suited everyone,” stated sporting director Joti Chatzialexiou.

The Sierra Leone international had previously faced criticism from coach Miroslav Klose back in November, which is believed to have strained their working relationship.

Sierra Leone's Sullay Kaikai helps Cambridge draw with MK Dons
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Sierra Leone’s Sullay Kaikai helps Cambridge draw with MK Dons

Sullay Kaikai returned to haunt his old club, MK Dons, by scoring a brilliant equaliser that helped Cambridge secure a point in a League Two clash.

The hosts took the lead in the 42nd minute thanks to Callum Paterson, but Kaikai struck back midway through the second half, allowing Cambridge to extend their unbeaten league streak to six games.

Cambridge’s Ben Knight was denied by keeper Craig MacGillivray, while Kelland Watts narrowly missed in a chaotic goalmouth scramble.

Just before half-time, the Dons took the lead with Paterson scoring from a pass by Liam Kelly. Cambridge had chances too, including Liam Bennett’s close-range miss.

In the 66th minute, former MK Dons winger Kaikai equalised with a powerful shot from outside the box. In the final moments, Aaron Collins nearly won it for Cambridge but hit the side-netting, resulting in a draw.

The Sierra Leone International joined Cambridge United in League One on a one-year deal on 28 June 2024. On 10 June 2025, the club announced that he had signed a new two-year contract.

Mali coach Tom Saintfiet includes Yves Bissouma in Mali final AFCON squad
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Coach Tom Saintfiet includes Yves Bissouma in Mali’s final AFCON squad

Bissouma plays for Tottenham Hotspur and has not played this season yet, but Saintfiet values his role in Mali’s midfield ahead of the tournament starting on 21 December.

Mali will begin their Group A campaign on 22 December against Zambia in Casablanca. They will also face the hosts, Morocco, and Comoros, in a very competitive group.

Bissouma’s return is the most significant part of the squad announcement. He last played in August and had ankle surgery after getting injured during a World Cup qualifier.

Even without recent matches, the coach believes Bissouma’s experience and smart play can be important in the midfield, which has a mix of strength and skill.

Saintfiet has assembled a balanced squad for Mali, featuring experienced players alongside promising talent from Europe and Africa. Defensively, Hamari Traoré leads, supported by Sikou Niakaté, Mamadou Fofana, and Woyo Coulibaly, while Djigui Diarra, Ismaël Diawara, and Mamadou Sawassa man the goal.

Mali’s midfield is robust with Amadou Haidara, Aliou Dieng, Lassana Coulibaly, Ibrahima Sissoko, Bissouma, and Mohamed Camara.

In attack, options include Nene Dorgeles, Kamory Doumbia, and Gaoussou Diarra for creativity and speed, while Moussa El Bilal Touré and Lassine Sinayoko are poised to score.

With a strong squad and the return of key players, Mali aims to advance far in the tournament in Morocco.

FULL MALI SQUAD FOR AFCON 2025 

Goalkeepers: Djigui Diarra (Young Africans), Ismaël Diawara (Sirius) and Mamadou Sawassa (Laval)

Defenders: Ousmane Camara (Angers), Woyo Coulibaly (Sassuolo), Amadou Dante (Arouca), Abdoulaye Diaby (Grasshoppers), Fodé Doucouré (Le Havre), Mamadou Fofana (New England Revolution), Nathan Gassama (Baltika), Sikou Niakaté (Sporting Braga) and Hamari Traoré (Paris FC)

Midfielders: Yves Bissouma (Tottenham Hotspur), Mohamed Camara (Al Sadd), Lassana Coulibaly (Lecce), Aliou Dieng (Al Ahly), Mahamadou Doumbia (Al Ittihad), Amadou Haidara (RB Leipzig), Mamadou Sangaré (Racing Lens) and Ibrahima Sissoko (VfL Bochum)

Forwards: Mamadou Camara (Laval), Gaoussou Diakité (Lausanne Sports), Gaoussou Diarra (Feyenoord Rotterdam), Nene Dorgeles (Fenerbahçe), Kamory Doumbia (Stade Brestois), Mamadou Doumbia (Watford), Lassine Sinayoko (Auxerre) and Moussa El Bilal Touré (Beşiktaş)