Author: Alie Bittar @bittar32

Sierra Leone's Amadou Bakayoko signs a new Hokkaido Consadole Sapporo deal
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Sierra Leone’s Amadou Bakayoko signs a new Hokkaido Consadole Sapporo deal

Sierra Leone International Amadou Bakayoko has signed a new one-and-a-half-year contract with J League 2 side Hokkaido Consadole Sapporo, valid until summer 2027.

The former Bolton, Coventry City, and Dundee attacker initially joined Consadole Sapporo on 28 July 2024. He made his debut on 16 August as a substitute and scored his first goal from the penalty spot in a 5–3 win over Sagan Tosu.

On December 1, 2024, Hokkaido Consadole Sapporo was relegated to the J2 League after spending seven years in the top tier.  

The club, which is currently participating in the Japanese League 2, aims to ensure stability in their attacking lineup, which is why they’ve chosen to retain the striker known for his impressive goal-scoring ability.  

This season, he has netted seven goals while playing in the Japanese second league with Sapporo.

Osimhen and Lookman score as Nigeria cruise into quarter-finals
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Osimhen and Lookman help Nigeria cruise to AFCON quarter-finals

Victor Osimhen scored two goals as Nigeria easily defeated Mozambique 4-0 in the Africa Cup of Nations on Monday. This win took Nigeria to the quarter-finals.

Ademola Lookman, a former African footballer of the year like Osimhen, scored the first goal after 20 minutes. He also assisted in the other three goals. Osimhen began the match without his usual mask but put it on before scoring his second goal in the 25th minute. He scored again just after halftime, while Akor Adams rounded off the win.

This 4-0 victory is the largest margin in an AFCON knockout match since Egypt defeated Algeria 4-0 in the semi-finals in 2010. After missing the World Cup, Nigeria aims to continue their journey, facing either Algeria or the Democratic Republic of Congo in the quarter-finals on Saturday.

Mozambique reached the knockout stage for the first time after qualifying as one of the best third-placed teams in the group stage. They were outmatched by a strong Nigerian team that featured several regular starters, as coach Eric Chelle rotated his lineup in their previous 3-1 victory against Uganda.

Lookman, who had scored in the win against Tunisia, gave Nigeria the lead as the first half approached. Alex Iwobi passed the ball to Adams on the left side of the box, who then set up Lookman to score.

Lookman then assisted Osimhen with a cross in the 25th minute, allowing Osimhen to score easily. Osimhen was unharmed after a challenge where a Mozambique player hit him in the stomach.

Lookman’s cross in the 47th minute was finished by Osimhen, making it 3-0 and ending any chance of a Mozambique comeback. After going without scoring in seven AFCON matches, Osimhen now has three goals in this tournament.

Lookman wasn’t done yet; he assisted Adams with about 30 minutes to go, and Adams scored with a powerful shot into the net.

Mohamed Salah nets extra-time goal to help Egypt beat Benin
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Mohamed Salah nets extra-time goal to help Egypt beat Benin

Egypt's football team reached the quarter-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations by defeating Benin 3-1 after extra time with goals from .Marwan Attia Fahim Ghallab, Yasser Ibrahim Ahmed El Hanafi and Mohamed Salah, respectively.

The match took place in Agadir, Morocco. Marwan Atteya and Yasser Ibrahim scored their first international goals, while Mohamed Salah added his 10th goal in the tournament.

Atteya scored the first goal in the 69th minute. Benin’s Jodel Dossou equalised in the 83rd minute, forcing the game into extra time. In the extra period, Atteya assisted Ibrahim’s header in the 97th minute, putting Egypt back in the lead. Salah sealed the victory with a goal in the second half of extra time.

Unlike their previous match against Angola, where they fielded a less experienced team, Egypt started with their top players. Winger Ibrahim Adel replaced Ahmed “Zizo” Sayed in the lineup.

Egypt showed their attacking strength early on. Salah set up Omar Marmoush, but Marmoush’s shot was saved by Benin’s goalkeeper, Marcel Dandjinou, in the seventh minute. Marmoush had another chance in the 20th minute, but a defender cleared it.

Benin also created chances, but Egypt’s defence and goalkeeper kept them at bay. Both teams made substitutions in the first half. Benin’s Aiyegun Tosin left due to a muscle injury, while Egypt’s Mohamed Hamdy was stretchered off with a knee injury just before halftime, and Ahmed Fatouh came on for him.

Egypt missed a good chance early in the second half when Rami Rabia’s close-range shot went wide after deflections. Just before the 60-minute mark, Egypt made two changes: Emam Ashour replaced Ibrahim Adel, and Ahmed “Zizo” Sayed came on for the injured Mahmoud “Trezeguet” Hassan. Mohamed El-Shennawy kept the score level by saving a close shot from Dossou.

Atteya finally scored in the 69th minute after a one-two with Salah and Mohamed Hany, marking his first goal in 29 international matches. Benin responded by pushing for an equaliser and got one when Dossou followed up a deflected shot from Fatouh in the 83rd minute.

Salah had a chance to win the game in regular time, but his shot was saved. Seven minutes of added time passed without a winner. In extra time, Ibrahim’s header in the first minutes put Egypt back in front, his first goal in 12 matches. Benin tried to equalise again but couldn’t break through Egypt’s solid defence. Salah finished off the game with a lob goal in the final minutes after being assisted by Zizo.

Egypt will face either the Ivory Coast or Burkina Faso in the quarter-finals on Friday.

Tunisia axe Sami Trabelsi after Cup of Nations exit
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Tunisia have axed Sami Trabelsi after their Cup of Nations exit

Tunisia's coach, Sami Trabelsi, has been dismissed just a day after the team suffered a defeat against Mali in the last 16 of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon).

Despite facing only 10 men for over 90 minutes in a match that extended into extra time, the 2004 champions were unable to secure a victory.

Early in the game, Mali’s Woyo Coulibaly received a red card, giving Tunisia an advantage, but they went ahead late, taking the lead in the 88th minute.

Unfortunately, they conceded a penalty in the sixth minute of stoppage time and ultimately faltered during the ensuing shootout.

The Tunisian Football Federation announced on social media that they had “decided to part ways by mutual consent” with the national team’s coaching staff.

Trabelsi, 57, had returned for a second spell in charge of the Carthage Eagles last February after resigning in 2013, following a disappointing early exit from Afcon. In the recent tournament in Morocco, Tunisia finished second in Group C, starting with a 3-1 victory over Uganda, but later lost 3-2 to Nigeria and drew 1-1 with Tanzania.

Reflecting on their exit against Mali, Trabelsi expressed that it brought “great disappointment and pain,” acknowledging that as coach, he definitely bore the responsibility for the team’s performance.

Brahim Diaz helps Morocco reach AFCON 2025 quarter-finals
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Brahim Diaz helps Morocco reach AFCON 2025 quarter-finals

Morocco reached the quarter-finals of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations 2025 by defeating Tanzania 1–0 in Rabat on Sunday. Brahim Diaz scored the only goal in the second half.

The match was challenging for the hosts, who controlled the game but struggled to create clear scoring chances against a strong Tanzanian defence.

Morocco, captained by Achraf Hakimi, started strong but struggled to score against a well-defending Tanzania. A goal from Ismail Saibari in the 24th minute was ruled offside by VAR, leaving the first half goalless.

After halftime, Morocco increased their urgency, with key moments like Diaz forcing a corner and El Khannouss shooting over the bar. Tanzania almost took the lead in the 56th minute with a missed opportunity from Feisal Toto.

Morocco finally broke the deadlock in the 63rd minute when Diaz scored from a tight angle, marking his fourth goal of the tournament and leading Morocco to a 1-0 victory. They advance to the quarter-finals, where they’ll face the winner of South Africa vs. Cameroon.

Diaz, named Man of the Match, acknowledged the challenge, while Tanzania’s coach, Miguel Ángel Gamondi, expressed pride in his team’s performance.

Morocco’s head coach, Walid Regragui, praised the second-half effort and noted the injury to key player Azzedine Ounahi, emphasizing the team’s determination to succeed.

Senegal through to AFCON quarter-final after defeating Sudan
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Senegal through to AFCON quarter-finals after defeating Sudan

Senegal staged a remarkable comeback to secure their place in the quarter-finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, triumphing over Sudan with a 3-1 victory at the Grande de Tanger stadium on Saturday.

The match got off to a surprising start, with Sudan taking the lead just six minutes into the game. Aamir Abdallah showcased his striking prowess, netting a well-placed shot that caught the Senegalese defence off guard and sent their supporters into a frenzy.

For the first 25 minutes, Sudan appeared firmly in control, showing confidence and creating opportunities that had the Senegalese side on the defensive.

However, the tide began to turn in the 29th minute when Pape Gueye, a midfielder from Villarreal, found the back of the net, levelling the score and shifting the momentum in favour of Senegal.

He struck again just before halftime in the 45th minute, leaving the Sudanese players shaken and struggling to regain their composure.

As the second half unfolded, Senegal continued to assert their dominance, with Ibrahim Mbaye adding a third goal in a decisive moment, solidifying the Senegalese lead and effectively putting the match beyond Sudan’s reach.

In the final stages of the match, despite being three goals up with just five minutes remaining, the Senegalese team remained aggressive and tenacious, fighting for every ball with determination.

This perseverance was epitomised moments later when Pape Gueye was substituted off for Pathe Ciss after preparing to take a corner from the left side.

Tunisia and Mali set for a cracking AFCON knockout contest
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Tunisia and Mali set for a cracking AFCON knockout contest

Brave Mali set to go up against North African opposition Tunisia in the round of 16 at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, taking place at Mohamed V Stadium in Casablanca on Saturday.

Mali advanced to the knockout phase by finishing second in Group A, securing two draws against Zambia and Morocco, and a goalless draw against Comoros. Despite being unbeaten, they didn’t achieve any victories in the group.

In their last six competitive matches, Mali has shown tough composure, with two wins and four draws. Historically, they are consistent AFCON performers, frequently reaching the knockout stages, though they have yet to win the tournament.

Tunisia reached the round of 16 by finishing second in Group C, starting with a 3-1 victory over Uganda, followed by a loss to Nigeria and a draw with Tanzania. Their group stage performance highlighted both attacking potential and defensive vulnerabilities.

Tunisia’s depth of experience in the Africa Cup of Nations, including their previous title in 2004, gives them an advantage as they approach the knockout stage of football.

Both teams have faced each other 13 times since 1994, with Tunisia winning six matches, Mali four, and three ending in draws. Recent meetings have been closely contested.

Mali’s head coach, Tom Saintfiet, made four changes to the lineup that drew with Morocco. However, they will be without key midfielder Amadou Haidara, who is suspended following a red card in their last match. There is positive news regarding injuries, as Sikou Niakate is back in training.

Tunisia’s head coach, Sami Trabelsi, has a nearly full-strength squad, with no suspensions reported. The main concern is Mohamed Ali Ben Romdhane, who suffered a knee injury, but initial assessments suggest it is not serious. Additionally, Elias Achouri is expected to return to full fitness soon after a minor injury.

Mali’s possible starting lineup:

Diarra; W. Coulibaly, Diaby, O. Camara, Gassama; Dieng, Doumbia, L. Coulibaly, Sangare, Bissouma; Sinayoko

Tunisia’s possible starting lineup:

Dahmen; Abdi, Talbi, Bronn, Valery; Skhiri, Gharbi, Mejbri; Achouri, Tounekti, Mastouri

AFCON 2025 Round of 16 fixtures – Saturday, 3 January 2026 
  • Mali vs Tunisia 20h00 local time / 19h00 GMT
    Stade Mohammed V, Casablanca
Senegal and Sudan last-16 Cup of Nations 2025 preview
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Senegal and Sudan Last-16 Cup of Nations 2025 preview

Senegal aims to overcome the disappointment of being eliminated in the round of 16 of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations when they face Sudan at Grande de Tanger on Saturday.

The Terenga Lions performed admirably in the group stage, achieving a 3-0 victory over Botswana, a 1-1 draw with DR Congo, and a decisive win against Benin, concluding the group with seven points. They topped Group D thanks to their superior goal difference compared to DR Congo.

While Senegal’s strong performance in the first round has resulted in a more favourable matchup against Sudan, they are mindful of the potential challenges posed by their opponents.

In the previous edition of the tournament, Senegal was unexpectedly eliminated by the eventual champions, the Ivory Coast, at a similar stage.

Confidence is high for Senegal as they prepare to advance past Sudan, particularly given their status as one of the continent’s most in-form teams, with three victories in their last four matches (one draw). They have excelled offensively, scoring seven goals while conceding just one.

Sudan, on the other hand, has emerged as one of the surprise teams of this round, reaching the last 16 despite winning only one of their three group matches.

Their campaign began with a 3-0 defeat to Algeria, followed by a hard-fought 1-0 victory against Equatorial Guinea. They faced a setback in their final group match against Burkina Faso, losing 2-0. Nonetheless, their single win was sufficient to secure their place as one of the best third-placed teams.

Saturday’s match against Senegal presents a significant challenge for Sudan, particularly given their recent performance of just two wins in their last 15 matches.

In terms of head-to-head statistics, Senegal has historically dominated encounters with Sudan, winning all of their last seven meetings, which included four draws. Over these contests, Senegal has scored eight goals while Sudan has managed only one.

A key player to watch for Senegal is Nicolas Jackson, who made a noteworthy entrance into the tournament by scoring twice in their opening match. While he has not added to his goal tally since, the expectation is that he will seek to enhance his performance against a less competitive opponent on Saturday.

In terms of team composition, Senegal will be without captain Kalidou Koulibaly, who was sent off in their last match against Benin. Diao will also be unavailable due to a thigh injury, and Ilay Camara is sidelined with a muscle injury.

For Senegal, the probable lineup includes: Elneel, Awad, Saeed Ahmed, Karshom, Khamis, Taifour, Alhassan Omer, Nooh, Eisa, and Abdelrahman.

Sudan’s anticipated lineup features: Mendy, Jakobs, Niakhate, Seck, Diatta, P. Gueye, I. Gueye, Ndiaye, Mane, Sarr, and Jackson.

AFCON 2025 Round of 16 fixtures
Saturday, 3 January 2026 – Senegal vs Sudan, 17:00 –Grand Stade de Tangier
Intriguing Cup of Nations AFCON last-16 matches confirmed
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Intriguing Cup of Nations AFCON last-16 matches confirmed

The fixtures for the Round of 16 in the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations 2025 in Morocco have been finalized, following an exhilarating group stage that showcased the exceptional talent in African football.

The knockout stage is scheduled to take place from Saturday, January 3, to Tuesday, January 6, featuring two matches each day at 17:00 local time (16:00 GMT) and 20:00 local time (19:00 GMT) as teams compete for a place in the quarter-finals.

Morocco, the host nation, will face Tanzania at the Stade Prince Moulay Abdellah in Rabat on Sunday at 17:00 local time (16:00 GMT). The Moroccan team, which topped Group A, is poised to seek their first continental title in 50 years, supported by enthusiastic local fans.

Simultaneously, South Africa and Cameroon will compete later that same day at the Al Medina Stadium in Rabat at 20:00 local time (19:00 GMT). This match will feature coach Hugo Broos against the national team he previously led to victory in 2017.

The Round of 16 will commence on Saturday with the matchup between 2021 champions Senegal and Sudan at the Grand Stade de Tangier at 17:00 local time (16:00 GMT). Following this, Mali will play against Tunisia at 20:00 local time (19:00 GMT) at the Stade Mohammed V in Casablanca, with Mali striving for their first continental championship while Tunisia aims to replicate their triumph from 2004.

Egypt, the record seven-time champions of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations, are looking to end a lengthy wait for the trophy since their last victory in 2010. They will face Benin on Monday at 17:00 local time (16:00 GMT) at the Grand Stade de Agadir.

That evening, Nigeria, one of the standout teams from the group stages, will take on Mozambique at the Complexe Sportif de Fès at 20:00 local time (19:00 GMT) as they aim to improve upon their silver medal finish at the 2023 tournament.

On Tuesday, Algeria will meet the Democratic Republic of Congo at the Stade Prince Heritier Moulay El Hassan in Rabat at 17:00 local time (16:00 GMT). The Round of 16 will conclude with a match between defending champions Côte d’Ivoire and Burkina Faso at the Grand Stade de Marrakech at 20:00 local time (19:00 GMT).

The quarter-finals are set to be held on January 9-10, with the final taking place on January 18 at the Stade Prince Moulay Abdellah.

TOTALENERGIES CAF AFCON MOROCCO 2025 ROUND OF 16 FIXTURES
  • Saturday, 3 January 2026 – Senegal vs Sudan
  • 17h00 local time / 16h00 GMT
  • Grand Stade de Tangier
  • Mali vs Tunisia – 20h00 local time / 19h00 GMT
  • Stade Mohammed V, Casablanca
  •  
  • Sunday, 4 January 2026.
  • Morocco vs Tanzania – 17h00 local time / 16h00 GMT 
  • Stade Prince Moulay Abdellah, Rabat
  • South Africa vs Cameroon
  • 20h00 local time / 19h00 GMT
  • Stade Al Medina, Rabat
 
  • Monday, 5 January 2026
  • Egypt vs Benin
  • 17h00 local time / 16h00 GMT
  • Grand Stade de Agadir
  • Nigeria vs Mozambique
  • 20h00 local time / 19h00 GMT
  • Complexe Sportif de Fès
  •  
  • Tuesday, 6 January 2026
  • Algeria vs DR Congo
  • 17h00 local time / 16h00 GMT
  • Stade Prince Heritier Moulay El Hassan, Rabat
  • Cote d’Ivoire vs Burkina Faso
  • 20h00 local time / 19h00 GMT
  • Grand Stade de Marrakech
Senegal thrash Benin as DR Congo progress with a heavy win
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Senegal thrash Benin as DR Congo progress with a heavy win

Senegal secured a position in the Round of 16 by defeating Benin with a decisive 3-0 victory in their final Group D match at the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The match, held in Tangiers, showcased Senegal’s strong performance, beginning with a header from Abdoulaye Seck in the 38th minute, assisted by Krépin Diatta’s well-executed set piece.

Sadio Mané later provided a critical pass to Habib Diallo, who extended the lead with a composed finish in the 62nd minute.

Despite Kalidou Koulibaly receiving a red card after a VAR review in the 71st minute, Senegal demonstrated resilience and maintained their advantage, culminating in a penalty converted by Cherif Ndiaye in stoppage time.

This victory confirms Senegal’s position at the top of Group D, while Benin also advances to the Round of 16 as one of the best third-placed teams.

In a parallel match, DR Congo triumphed over Botswana with a convincing 3-0 scoreline, securing second place in Group D.

Gael Kakuta delivered an outstanding performance, contributing two goals and an assist, illustrating his pivotal role in the team’s success.

Nathaniel Mbuku opened the scoring, with Kakuta converting a penalty just before halftime and subsequently completing his brace.

This result positions DR Congo for an upcoming match against Algeria in the Round of 16.