Author: Alie Bittar @bittar32

Sierra Leone appoint French-born Didier Gomes Da Rosa
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Sierra Leone appoint French-born Didier Gomes Da Rosa

Sierra Leone has appointed Didier Gomes Da Rosa as the new head coach of the Leone Stars. His first major task is to guide Sierra Leone to the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.

The Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) announced this on Friday, ahead of the 2027 qualifiers in the race to qualify for East Africa, co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.

SLFA’s president, Babadi Kamara, confirmed that his salary is lower than what local coaches requested. “In as much as I’ll not disclose his exact figures, but I want to assure you all that what we agreed on is less than what we have been asking for locally.”

Da Rosa has previously managed the Botswana national football team. He has had success at various clubs in Africa, winning league titles with Rayon Sports F.C. in 2013 and Coton Sport FC de Garoua in 2014 and 2015. He also won the Cameroonian Cup with Coton Sport.

Gomes’ focus now is to help Sierra Leone qualify for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations. This will be a special tournament as it is the first time it will be hosted by multiple countries in East Africa.

Gomes started his coaching career in 2008 in France, managing teams such as AS Roquebrune Cap Martin, ES Fos-sur-Mer, and AS Cannes until 2011.

The Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) announced this on Friday ahead of the 2027 qualifiers in the race to qualify in East Africa, co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.
The Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) announced this on Friday ahead of the 2027 qualifiers in the race to qualify in East Africa, co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.
Algeria impresses in win against the Netherlands in an international friendly
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Algeria stun the Netherlands in World Cup warm-up 

A goal from winger Anis Hadj Moussa gave Algeria an unlikely 1-0 win over the Netherlands on Wednesday in a World Cup warm-up.

Hadj Moussa, who plays for Dutch club Feyenoord, shot strongly into the top corner four minutes from time. Algeria were grateful for the victory, especially with many friends and family watching on in De Kuip where the winger plays his club football.

“It’s deserved after a very good second half,” Algeria coach Djamel Belmadi told Dutch broadcasters after the game. “It’s frustrating. It ruined their farewell game before they went off to New York.”

Hadj Moussa’s goal was his first for Algeria. Netherlands captain Virgil van Dijk was left frustrated after the game. “Of course, you don’t want this in a farewell game,” he said. “We should be further ahead than 1-0, at least two goals. We need to work at it and get sharp again. We’ve got another game in a few days, so we need to use it positively.”

Van Dijk added: “It’s great for most of the guys to have played some minutes, but we don’t play to lose games of course.”

Algeria goalkeeper Luca Zidane, who has been playing with a mask over the lower half of his face following injuries in April, made a number of smart stops throughout the game. It will ease concerns over his place in the team, which has been under scrutiny recently.

The Netherlands will face Uzbekistan in a friendly on Monday night in New York before flying out to Kansas City. They face Japan in their World Cup opener in Group F on June 14 in Dallas.

Algeria begin their World Cup campaign against World Cup champions Argentina in Group J on June 16 in Kansas City. They face Bolivia in their final warm-up game on Wednesday in Kansas City.

Hugo Broos’ South Africa side ready for stiff Jamaica friendly
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Hugo Broos’ South Africa side ready for stiff Jamaica friendly

South Africa will play a competitive friendly match against Jamaica on Friday night in Pachuca, Mexico, as they look to fine-tune ahead of their much-anticipated 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Bafana Bafana of South Africa is confident of putting in a good performance following their return to football’s biggest stage after many years away. Hugo Broos’ side will be looking to snap their current winless run and head into their tournament with momentum following their opening game against World Cup hosts Mexico.

Having picked up two draws and suffered two defeats in their past four games. Many see this final warm-up match as a great opportunity to boost morale and preparation as well as sharpen up before the World Cup starts.

The Belgian head coach is expected to name his strongest side possible ahead of kickoff. However, there is one omission as Aubrey Modiba will miss the game for precautionary reasons.

Samukele Kabini and Bradley Cross will benefit from the midfielder’s absence, gaining more game time and valuable minutes on the field as they look to force their way into Broos’ plans against Mexico.

Guests Jamaica are a team on the rebound after finishing runners-up to Nigeria in the Unity Cup with a 3-0 loss. Ranked 71 in the world, the Reggae Boyz failed to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.

In their last three matches, they’ve only tasted victory once and have struggled for consistency. Interim head coach Rudolph Speid has called up a young and inexperienced squad. He has rested several of his Europe-based stars, such as Leon Bailey and Demarai Grey, following a hectic club season.

Clearly, Jamaica are taking a breather and fielding their youngsters against some of Africa’s best talents. It will only be the sixth time these two sides meet, with South Africa unbeaten in the previous five, with one win and four draws. That was a 2-0 friendly victory in Germany back in April 20.

Defender Baba Rahman is optimistic about improving Ghana's performance
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Defender Baba Rahman is optimistic about improving Ghana’s performance

Ghana defender Baba Rahman believes performances from the Black Stars team will improve at next year’s World Cup Finals tournament.

It was not the perfect build-up to next year’s World Cup for the Ghana national team as they played Wales to a goalless draw. Ghana opened the scoring early on, but the Dragons managed to hit back with just three minutes left on the clock.

“I’m gutted we could not get the win last night, but this is a marathon, not a sprint. We will get there. This group will give everything for this precious shirt. God bless our homeland Ghana,” Baba Rahman posted after the game on social media.

The former Chelsea player played the second half after skipping out in 2023.

Ghana will become the lowest-ranked nation at the 2026 World Cup, beginning their Group L campaign against Panama on June 17 in Toronto, Canada, ranked 73rd in the world. England is ranked fourth, while their other group rivals, Croatia, are ranked 11th, and Panama are ranked 33rd.

Their second game against former champions England will take place in Foxboro, Massachusetts six days later with a final game against the 2018 runners- up to conclude Group L fixtures on June 27.

Morocco Heads to the U.S. for Final World Cup Preparations
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Morocco Heads to the U.S. for Final World Cup Preparations

Ahead of their final training camp, Morocco has left for their final destination as they look to make their preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States.

The Atlas Lions departed Rabat‑Salé Airport having enjoyed a successful training camp in Morocco that saw them defeat Madagascar 4-0 to give themselves a huge confidence boost ahead of the World Cup.

The fixture was played at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat on Monday, and Brahim scored one after coming on as a substitute in the 81st minute.

Morocco scored the fourth goal of the game when Brahim blasted a shot against the post from outside the box and El Kaabi tapped in. Saibairi had opened the scoring and then scored his second two minutes before halftime, while Rahimi added Morocco’s third from the penalty spot.

Mohamed Ouahbi’s side will fine-tune their plans once they’re based in America, when they take on Norway in a friendly on June 7 before the tournament kicks off for them.

Morocco’s fixtures at the World Cup start on June 13 when they take on Brazil at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey before taking on Scotland four days later on June 19. They’ll face Haiti in their final game before the knockouts begin on June 24.

Senegal's goalkeeper, Edouard Mendy, has urged his teammates to demonstrate their abilities as they kick off their 2026 FIFA World Cup journey against France on June 16th at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Senegal’s Edouard Mendy calls on teammates to prove themselves against France

Senegal’s goalkeeper, Edouard Mendy, has urged his teammates to demonstrate their abilities as they kick off their 2026 FIFA World Cup journey against France on June 16th at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

This match will be the second time the Lions of Teranga face Les Bleus in the group stage, having famously stunned the defending champions 1-0 in their first match in 2002. Senegal advanced to the quarter-finals that year, becoming only the second African nation to achieve this feat.

In the upcoming tournament, Senegal is once again drawn with France in Group I, along with Norway and Iraq. They have qualified for four World Cups: 2002, 2018, 2022, and 2026, with a record of five wins, three draws, and four defeats across twelve matches.

“All of our opponents are strong, especially France,” Mendy told FIFA.com. “This is why we play football— to challenge ourselves against the best. We have the chance to do just that in our first World Cup match.”

Mendy emphasised his role in inspiring the next generation, mentioning, “It’s important to give back, as I’ve received so much. I want to help future players from Senegal achieve great things.”

Looking back at their historic victory over France, he said, “That match was a pivotal moment for our country, being our first World Cup win. Now we have our own match to prepare for in a new era.”

Senegal topped Group B in African qualifying, finishing with a 4-0 win against Mauritania. This World Cup will also be notable for being co-hosted by three nations and expanding to 48 teams from the previous 32.

Adil Mohamed Erradi begins preparing Liberia's game plan for Sierra Leone
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Adil Mohamed Erradi begins preparing Liberia’s game plan for Sierra Leone

The Moroccan-Belgian coach Adil Mohamed Erradi conducted his first training session after his recent appointment as the new Liberia head coach, as he begins to prepare his plans for the Lone Star ahead of upcoming games against neighbours Sierra Leone.

Liberia will be taking on Leone Stars on the 6th and Sierra Leone will reciprocate on the 9th of this month with both being FIFA recognised friendlies. The first match will take place at the Southern Arena in Bo City and return leg will be played in the capital Monrovia.

Erradi takes over from Thomas Kojo who was interim head coach of the Lone Stars and has penned a 3 year deal with the Liberia Football Federation who are hoping to reach continental stage by 2027 in East Africa.

These upcoming friendlies will play a huge role in preparations for their Africa Cup of Nations campaign which is slated to kick off in September.

Mohamed Erradi who was born on December 6th in 19’78 has had an extensive professional career and also owns a UEFA Pro License. He began his coaching journey with a trip to Ghana which then led to him becoming assistant to Juan Carlos Garrido at Raja Casablanca in June of 2017. Later that same year he went on to become technical director at IR Tanger in November of 2017.

In July 2019 he took Rwanda based club APR FC the helm and set the Nations record for most consecutive unbeaten games (50 matches) while winning them three consecutive league titles; 2019–20 20’20-20’21 and 20’21-20’22.

He made Rwandan history in July of 20’22 when he took APR FC to the second round of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Champions League.

Moroccan coach Adil Mohamed Erradi begins preparing Liberia's strategy for the Sierra Leone clash
Moroccan coach Adil Mohamed Erradi begins preparing Liberia's strategy for the Sierra Leone clash
Senegal win CAF U-17 AFCON title after defeating Tanzania
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Senegal win CAF U-17 AFCON title after defeating Tanzania

Senegal triumphed in the TotalEnergies CAF Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations, Morocco 2026, defeating Tanzania 4-2 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in the final.

Tanzania took an early lead with Hamis Chenga scoring in the seventh minute, but Senegal equalised in the 64th minute through Ibrahima Dione, capitalising on a free-kick mishap.

The match proceeded to penalties, where Senegal showed composure, converting all four attempts. Faye, Sadio, Dione, and Thior scored for Senegal, while Tanzania converted two through Usuph and Mbegelendi but missed two crucial penalties.

This victory marks Senegal’s second U-17 AFCON title and highlights the strength of their youth football development. Despite the loss, Tanzania celebrated a historic campaign, reaching their first final and qualifying for the FIFA U-17 World Cup.

The night ultimately belonged to Senegal, as they showcased resilience and skill throughout the tournament.

Senegal crowned CAF U-17 AFCON champions after defeating Tanzania
Senegal crowned CAF U-17 AFCON champions after defeating Tanzania
Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Brian Cipenga bolster the DR Congo camp
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Brian Cipenga bolster DR Congo camp

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) national team is getting a significant boost for the 2026 FIFA World Cup with the addition of two key players to its roster.

West Ham United defender Aaron Wan-Bissaka and CD Castellón FC winger Brian Cipenga have officially joined the Leopards’ training camp in Belgium, completing the squad.

According to a recent update from the Federation of Congolese Football Associations, the arrival of the duo means the entire team is now present and accounted for.

“The squad is now united, ready to ramp up preparations and embark on a new chapter in the history of Congolese football,” the statement reads.

With Wan-Bissaka, a former Manchester United star, and Spain-based Cipenga on board, coach Sébastien Desabre now has a full complement of players as they gear up for an upcoming friendly against Denmark.

On Wednesday, the Leopards will face their Scandinavian rivals at Maurice Dufrasne Stadium in Liège, with the match set to kick off at 20:00 local time.

Ghana Black Stars 2026 World Cup Squad revealed
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Ghana Black Stars 2026 World Cup Squad revealed

The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has announced the final 26-player squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

The team includes captain Jordan Ayew and key players like Thomas Partey, Inaki Williams, Kamaldeen Sulemana, and Antoine Semenyo. It consists of three goalkeepers, nine defenders, seven midfielders, and seven attackers.

In goal, Benjamin Asare from Hearts of Oak joins experienced keepers Lawrence Ati-Zigi and Joseph Anang. His selection excites local fans as he is one of the few home-based players.

The defence features Baba Rahman, Gideon Mensah, Alidu Seidu, and others to strengthen the backline.

Midfielder Thomas Partey will lead the midfield alongside Elisha Owusu, Kwasi Sibo, and others, providing varied options.

The forward line includes Inaki Williams, Jordan Ayew, and Kamaldeen Sulemana, along with Christopher Bonsu Baah, Ernest Nuamah, Brandon Thomas-Asante, and Prince Kwabena Adu, ensuring plenty of scoring potential.

The Full Black Stars 2026 squad
The Full Black Stars 2026 squad