Author: Alie Bittar @bittar32

Cape Verde impressive in pre-World Cup friendly win over Cape Verde
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Cape Verde impressive in pre-World Cup friendly win over Serbia

Cape Verde displayed their confidence with a 3-0 win over Serbia in a friendly match at Estádio do Restelo in Lisbon.

The Blue Sharks played well throughout the game, combining solid defence with effective attacks. They took control early, and in the 11th minute, midfielder Kévin Pina scored, giving them a deserved lead.

Cape Verde maintained their dominance, limiting Serbia’s chances. Despite Serbia’s attempts to respond, they struggled to break through Cape Verde’s organised defence.

The Blue Sharks continued their strong performance in the second half, with goals from Leroy Duarte in the 59th minute and Gilson Benchimol in the 63rd minute. This victory boosts Cape Verde’s confidence as they prepare for international play, showing teamwork and skill against European competition.

Serbia, on the other hand, had a challenging match and was unable to recover after conceding early. Overall, Cape Verde ended the match with a memorable win, showcasing one of their best performances in recent times.

Cape Verde’s World Cup group stage matches

vs. Spain, June 15 at noon ET, Atlanta

vs. Uruguay, June 21 at 6 p.m. ET, Miami

vs. Saudi Arabia, June 26 at 8 p.m. ET, Houston

Cape Verde impressive in pre-World Cup friendly win over Cape Verde
Cape Verde impressive in pre-World Cup friendly win over Cape Verde
Pulisic nets as USA overcome Senegal in pre-World Cup friendly
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Pulisic nets as USA overcome Senegal in pre-World Cup friendly

The US soccer team defeated Senegal 3-2 at the Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina, after losing to Belgium and Portugal. They needed a strong performance ahead of the World Cup.

Sergino Dest opened the scoring for the US, while Senegal’s Sadio Mane scored two goals, highlighting some weaknesses in the US defence.

The US started strong with a goal in the sixth minute. Pepi assisted Christian Pulisic, who scored, ending a five-month goal drought for both club and country.

“It’s great to score again. Hopefully, people can stop talking about it,” Pulisic said. Despite high energy from the US, Senegal had chances too. Two minutes before halftime, Senegal scored through Mane, making it 2-1.

At halftime, coach Pochettino made ten changes. Balogun thought he scored right away, but was offside. Senegal added another goal through Mane when Chris Brady, the goalkeeper, misplayed a backpass.

Balogun eventually scored after receiving a low cross from Weah. The US had several chances to score more, but McKennie hit the post, and both Weah and Balogun missed.

Pulisic was pleased with the win against “a really good team.” He noted the team’s energy and creation of chances, saying, “I’m really happy with the performance.”

Senegal entered Sunday’s match after winning convincingly against Gambia and Peru in March. Many consider them Africa’s best team. They controversially won the 2025 Afcon final but were later stripped of the title.

The Lions of Teranga are getting ready for their fourth World Cup. Mané scored a well-timed goal after Robinson made a bad pass, and Tyler Adams could not reach the final ball.

Senegal kicks off its World Cup preparations today against the USA
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Senegal kicks off its World Cup preparations today against the USA

Senegal kicks off its World Cup preparations today as they face off against one of the hosts of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the USA, at the Bank of America Stadium this evening.

The United States Men’s National Team, under the guidance of manager Mauricio Pochettino, is set to play their second-to-last tune-up match ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup against a formidable Senegal squad that has recently been on a roll, winning five of its last six matches.

This match marks the USMNT’s first outing since the unveiling of the official roster earlier this week, providing a significant test against the Lions of Teranga.  Although the United States is considered a narrow favourite playing at home, many analysts are tipping Senegal for the win.

The West African nation will prove to be stern opposition. They won seven of 10 games in qualifying, drawing three, while they also made the final of the Africa Cup of Nations earlier this year.

The game was ultimately awarded as a 3-0 win for Morocco by CAF following Senegal’s protest of a late penalty for the host nation.

However, they have only suffered two defeats on the pitch in the 42 games they have played since their elimination at the 2022 World Cup.

Senegal followed AFCON with victories over Peru and Gambia in March, and has won 12 of their last 15 games, excluding that walkover against Morocco

The US team will wrap up its World Cup preparations with a final send-off match against Germany in Chicago on Saturday, June 6.

Moroccan international Achraf Hakimi helps PSG retain the Champions League title
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Moroccan international Achraf Hakimi helps PSG retain Champions League title

Moroccan player Achraf Hakimi has won his second UEFA Champions League title with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), beating Arsenal in a penalty shootout in the final at Puskás Aréna in Budapest on Saturday.

Hakimi previously won the tournament with Real Madrid in 2018. PSG secured their second victory after the match ended 1-1 following extra time, demonstrating composure in the shootout.

Arsenal took an early lead with a sixth-minute goal from Kai Havertz. PSG responded in the second half when Ousmane Dembélé scored from a penalty after Khvicha Kvaratskhelia was fouled.

In extra time, neither team scored, and the match went to penalties. PSG’s victory confirms their dominance in European football, having also won their first Champions League title last season.

This defeat is tough for Arsenal, who had recently won the Premier League and were close to a double.  Hakimi’s achievement now makes him a three-time Champions League winner, matching Cameroon legend Samuel Eto’o, who also won the title three times.

As a result, with that achievement, Hakimi moves level with Cameroon legend Samuel Eto’o, who won the tournament three times as a key player with Barcelona in 2006 and 2009, and Inter Milan in 2010.

Paris Saint-Germain have become the second club to win back-to-back titles in the UEFA Champions League era, matching Real Madrid
Paris Saint-Germain have become the second club to win back-to-back titles in the UEFA Champions League era, matching Real Madrid
Egypt edge Russia in friendly ahead of 2026 World Cup
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Egypt edge Russia in friendly ahead of 2026 World Cup

Egypt finished their preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a 1-0 friendly win over Russia, winning the New Capital Cup at Cairo International Stadium on Thursday.

Mostafa Ziko scored the only goal in the second half, giving the Pharaohs a confidence boost ahead of their World Cup opener.

Coach Hossam Hassan made changes to his usual lineup, bringing back Mohamed Abdelmonem from injury and replacing the late-arriving Mohamed Salah with Ahmed Sayed “Zizo.” Egypt started strong, controlling possession early, but could not score before halftime, leaving the match tied at 0-0.

In the 65th minute, right-back Mohamed Hany made a good cross that Ziko headed in for the goal. Egypt nearly scored again shortly after, but substitutions continued as Hassan tested other players.

Russia tried to equalise in the closing minutes but could not break through Egypt’s solid defence. This win was important for Egypt, reflecting a turnaround after their defeat to Russia in the 2018 World Cup.

Next, Egypt will face Brazil in a warm-up match on June 6 in Cleveland, Ohio, before starting their World Cup campaign against Belgium on June 15 in Seattle. They are in Group G with Belgium, Iran, and New Zealand.

Assane Sarr shines to propel Senegal into the U-17 AFCON final
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Assane Sarr shines to propel Senegal into the U-17 AFCON final

Senegal reached the final of the TotalEnergies CAF Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco after defeating the host team 7-6 on penalties, following a 1-1 draw in Rabat on Thursday night.

Goalkeeper Assane Sarr was the hero for Senegal, making key saves during the shootout and ending Morocco’s hopes of winning at home.

Senegal will face Tanzania in the final, as Tanzania also won against Egypt on penalties earlier that day. Senegal took the lead in the 23rd minute when Mouhamed Wagne scored after a shot from Commissaire Faye was saved. Morocco had a goal ruled out in the 41st minute after a VAR review, which led to increasing frustration.

In the second half, Morocco pushed harder. A late handball by Cheikh Dieng allowed Morocco to equalize with a penalty rebound by Ismail El Aoud in stoppage time, making it 1-1.

The match went to a penalty shootout, where both teams had moments of success and failure. Senegal ultimately won the shootout 7-6, continuing their strong tournament performance.

For Morocco, it was a tough defeat after a late comeback in front of their fans. Senegal’s victory secures their place in the final, where they will face Tanzania for the title.

DRC overseas-based players exempt from 21-day isolation over Ebola
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

DRC overseas-based players exempt from 21-day isolation over Ebola

Over the Ebola virus in the country, the DR Congo overseas-based players will not need to undergo a 21-day health isolation period before travelling to the United States, despite earlier reports indicating otherwise.

Having to cancel their training camp in Kinshasa for Belgium and following discussions with FIFA, only the technical staff located in the DRC will be subject to this protocol. Players and staff who are based abroad, including those in Europe, Egypt, and the UAE, will be exempt.

As a precautionary measure, the Leopards have also decided to cancel their planned stop in Kinshasa before heading out on their trip.

WHO director-general Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said the risk in the wider region in Africa was “high” but that it remained “low” globally.

DR Congo are due to play friendlies against Denmark on 3 June in Belgium and Chile on 9 June in Spain. The World Cup runs from 11 June to 19 July, and DR Congo play Portugal in their opening game on 17 June.

South Africa names two uncapped players in 2026 FIFA World Cup squad
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

South Africa names two uncapped players in 2026 FIFA World Cup squad

Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has named his squad for the 2026 World Cup, which includes two new players, Olwethu Makhanya in the photo and Bradley Cross, who will make their national team debuts if selected in the upcoming warm-up match against Nicaragua or during the tournament itself.

Makhanya strengthens the center-back position, while Cross adds depth at left-back, especially with Aubrey Modiba nursing an injury. Modiba and another left-back, Samukele Kabini from Norway, are also in the squad.

Burnley striker Lyle Foster will lead the team, which consists of 19 players from the South African league. Themba Zwane’s experience is viewed as vital for the squad.

This World Cup will be Broos’s last as a coach. At 74, he plans to retire after the tournament, having previously ended his international playing career after the 1986 World Cup in Mexico.

South Africa has participated in three previous World Cups since their debut in 1998, exiting in the group stages each time.

Full Squad Confirmed

Goalkeepers: Ronwen Williams (Mamelodi Sundowns), Ricardo Goss (Siwelele), Sipho Chaine (Orlando Pirates)

Defenders: Khuliso Mudau, Aubrey Modiba, Khulumani Ndamane (all Mamelodi Sundowns), Olwethu Makhanya (Philadelphia Union, USA), Bradley Cross (Kaizer Chiefs), Thabang Matuludi (Polokwane City), Nkosinathi Sibisi, Kamogelo Sebelebele (both Orlando Pirates), Ime Okon (Hannover 96, Germany), Samukele Kabini (Molde FK, Norway), Mbekezeli Mbokazi (Chicago Fire, USA)

Midfielders: Teboho Mokoena, Jayden Adams (both Mamelodi Sundowns), Thalente Mbatha (Orlando Pirates), Sphephelo Sithole (Tondela, Portugal)

Forwards: Oswin Appollis, Tshepang Moremi, Evidence Makgopa, Relebohile Mofokeng (all Orlando Pirates), Lyle Foster (Burnley, England), Iqraam Rayners, Themba Zwane (both Mamelodi Sundowns), Thapelo Maseko (AEL Limassol, Cyprus)

Sadio Mane to lead Senegal's World Cup squad
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Sadio Mane to lead Senegal’s World Cup squad

Sadio Mane, the nation’s top scorer, is set to return to the global stage after missing the 2022 World Cup due to injury.

The Al-Nassr forward has been named in Senegal’s 28-man squad for this summer’s World Cup. Mane was part of the squad in Qatar but couldn’t participate because of a knee injury.

He was also on the pitch during January’s 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final when Morocco received a stoppage-time penalty.

Premier League stars Habib Diarra, El Hadji Malick Diouf, Ismaila Sarr, Mamadou Sarr, Pape Matar Sarr and Iliman Ndiaye have also been included.

Teenagers Ibrahim Mbaye and Bara Ndiaye, who play for Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich, respectively, will also travel to North America.

As part of its preparation, Senegal will play two friendly matches: the first on May 31 against the United States soccer team, and the second on June 9 against the Saudi Arabian national football team. A crucial phase before approaching the World Cup with ambition.

Senegal World Cup squad

Goalkeepers: Edouard Mendy (Al-Ahli), Yehvann Diouf (Nice), Mory Diaw (Le Havre).

Defenders: Krepin Diatta (Monaco), Antoine Mendy (Nice), Abdoulaye Seck (Maccabi Haifa), Kalidou Koulibaly (Al-Hilal), Ilay Camara (Anderlecht), Moussa Niakhate (Lyon), Mamadou Sarr (Chelsea), El-Hadji Malick Diouf (West Ham United), Moustapha Mbow (Paris FC), Ismail Jakobs (Galatasaray).

Midfielders: Idrissa Gueye (Everton), Habib Diarra (Sunderland), Pape Matar Sarr (Tottenham), Pape Gueye (Villarreal), Lamine Camara (Monaco), Pathe Ciss (Rayo Vallecano), Bara Ndiaye (Bayern Munich).

Forwards: Sadio Mane (Al-Nassr), Bamba Dieng (Lorient), Iliman Ndiaye (Everton), Nicolas Jackson (Bayern Munich), Assane Diao (Como), Ibrahim Mbaye (Paris St-Germain), Cherif Ndiaye (Samsunspor), Ismaila Sarr (Crystal Palace).

All quads are provisional until the final list of 26 players is announced by FIFA, following their submission by participating teams, on 2 June.

Senegal’s World Cup 2026 fixtures and group
Achraf Hakimi and Brahim Díaz are among key players in Morocco's FIFA World Cup squad
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Achraf Hakimi and Brahim Díaz are among key players in Morocco’s FIFA World Cup squad

Morocco head coach Mohamed Ouahbi has named Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, who is uncapped at the national level, in his 26-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Morocco’s squad features several Premier League players and will be led by Hakimi and Real Madrid’s Brahim Diaz. Notably, Youssef En-Nesyri and Hakim Ziyech are absent from the team that reached the semifinals in 2022, though fans will be pleased to see Achraf Hakimi included.

Bouaddi, a France U-21 international, received FIFA approval to switch nationalities earlier this year. He replaces players like Imran Louza and Oussama Targhalline in a strong midfield lineup.

While experienced players En-Nesyri and Ziyech missed out, Fulham’s Issa Diop is included after choosing Morocco over Senegal.

Morocco’s World Cup journey begins against Brazil on June 13, followed by matches against Scotland on June 19 and Haiti on June 24.

  • The Completed Morocco World Cup squad

Goalkeepers: Yassine Bounou (Al-Hilal), Munir El Kajoui (Berkane), Ahmed Reda Tagnaouti (Asfar)

Defenders: Nayef Aguerd (Marseille), Youssef Belammari (Al Ahly), Issa Diop (Fulham), Zakaria El Ouahdi (Genk), Achraf Hakimi (Paris Saint-Germain), Redouane Halhal (KV Mechelen), Noussair Mazraoui (Manchester United), Chadi Riad (Crystal Palace), Anass Salah-Eddine (PSV, on loan from Roma)

Midfielders: Sofyan Amrabat (Real Betis), Ayyoub Bouaddi (Lille), Neil El Aynaoui (Roma), Bilal El Khannouss (Stuttgart), Samir El Mourabet (Strasbourg), Azzedine Ounahi (Girona), Ismael Saibari (PSV)

Forwards: Ayoube Amaimouni (Eintracht Frankfurt), Brahim Díaz (Real Madrid), Ayoub El Kaabi (Olympiacos), Abde Ezzalzouli (Real Betis), Yassine Gessime (Strasbourg), Soufiane Rahimi (Al-Ain), Chemsdine Talbi (Sunderland)