Author: Alie Bittar @bittar32

Congo reinstated to African Nations Championship (CHAN)
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Congo reinstated to African Nations Championship (CHAN)

Congo has been reinstated in the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN) after a successful appeal to the Confederation of African Football (CAF). This decision comes just weeks before the tournament starts on August 2.

The CAF Appeals Jury accepted Congo’s protest against a previous ruling that disqualified their national team, the Red Devils A’. The Congolese Football Federation (Fecafoot) argued against the initial decision, which came after Equatorial Guinea filed a complaint.

Equatorial Guinea, who lost to Congo in the CHAN play-offs (0-0 in the first leg and 2-1 in the second), claimed that Congo had used an ineligible player, Japhet Mankou, and invalid player licenses. CAF’s Disciplinary Jury initially sided with Equatorial Guinea, awarding both matches to them by default and fining Congo $10,000, last January.

The Appeals Jury has now reversed that ruling, restoring the original match results and confirming Congo’s place in the tournament. As a result, Equatorial Guinea has been disqualified.

This reversal raises questions about the consistency and transparency of CAF’s disciplinary processes. The decision cancels the previous punishment and brings the integrity of the organization’s decisions into question.

Congo will compete in Group D of the CHAN alongside defending champions Senegal, as well as Sudan and Nigeria, making for a tough group stage.

Although the reinstatement comes just in time for final preparations, it adds controversy to the tournament’s lead-up. Critics argue that such last-minute changes weaken CAF’s authority, while supporters see it as fixing earlier mistakes. Despite the turmoil, Congo now has the chance to focus on their performance in a challenging group.

Iqraam Rayners's goal helps Sundowns to win FIFA Club World Cup opener
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Iqraam Rayners’ goal helps Sundowns to win FIFA Club World Cup opener

Man of the Match, Iqraam Rayners’s only goal got Mamelodi Sundowns three critical points in their FIFA Club World Cup opening against Ulsan HD at the Inter & Co Stadium in Orlando, Florida.

The match began with Sundowns showing early intent as Arthur Sales took a tight-angle shot, which the goalkeeper saved. Ulsan soon retaliated with a close-range effort that went over the bar.

For 20 minutes, both teams struggled for possession until Rayners shot just wide. He later had a free-kick disallowed but, in the 36th minute, scored following a brilliant pass from Lucas Ribeiro. Teboho Mokoena then took a powerful free-kick that was parried away by the goalkeeper.

In the dying moments of the first half, Ronwen Williams came off his line to intercept a ball that ultimately eluded him. Luckily, Divine Lunga was there to clear the danger. Sundowns went into the break with a 1-0 lead.

In the second half, Ulsan dominated possession and created several scoring opportunities, but Sundowns’ defense held strong. Rayners nearly scored, but a key tackle prevented it. Ulsan pressed for an equalizer, yet Williams made crucial saves.

Bafana Ba Style almost extended their lead, but Ulsan cleared the ball off the line. After a scare when Williams misplayed the ball, Cupido made an important clearance.

As pressure increased, Ulsan sought a late equalizer, while Sundowns focused on maintaining their lead, ultimately becoming the first team in Group F to secure a victory in the tournament.

Espérance de Tunis suffer opening Club World Cup defeat
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Espérance de Tunis suffer opening Club World Cup defeat

Tunisian champions Espérance de Tunis faced a tough start to their 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, losing 2-0 to Brazil’s Flamengo on Monday evening at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Giorgian de Arrascaeta scored the first goal in the 17th minute, finishing a cross from Luiz Araújo. Araújo then secured the win with a great goal in the 70th minute.

Flamengo controlled the first half, while Espérance played defensively and struggled to move the ball out of their half. Flamengo’s early dominance led to De Arrascaeta scoring from close range.

Espérance’s coach, Maher Kanzari, made some strategic substitutions at halftime, bringing in attackers Abdramane Konate and Elias Mokwana, which sparked an improvement in their performance. Just three minutes into the second half, left back Mohamed Ben Hamida took the initiative and landed the first shot on target.

Despite their efforts, Espérance struggled to convert opportunities into goals. Their star player, Youcef Belaïli, squandered a promising chance in the 62nd minute when his shot from outside the penalty area sailed high over the bar. Araújo’s goal eight minutes later dashed any remaining hopes of a comeback.

Looking ahead, Espérance will face Los Angeles FC in Nashville, Tennessee, as both teams aim to secure a victory in Group D. Meanwhile, Flamengo is set to clash with Chelsea for the top position in the group.

Female candidates steps up as SLFA election intensifies
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Female candidate steps up as SLFA election intensifies

The list of contenders for the Sierra Leone Football Association presidential race continues to grow, among them a female aspirant hoping to become the second woman to head the body.

Aminata Bangura has announced her bid to succeed the incumbent Thomas Daddy Brima, who is running for a second term when the election is held in August 2025.

Also in the race are two serving football club chairman, Bo Rangers’ Babadi Kamara, the current SLFA president; Thomas Daddy Brima; and Umar Bah of Real Republicans and the present manager of the home-based Leone Stars.

Incumbent president Thomas Daddy Brima, who has already completed his first four years in office, is set to face off against his rivals for this sought-after position.

While Babadi Kamara has been widely touted as the frontrunner, Aminata Bangura is challenging that narrative, with many believing she could spring a surprise in the upcoming election on August 2, 2025.

Although the SLFA and the electoral board have yet to officially announce the list of candidates, this source has been closely following the nomination process.

Four years ago, Thomas Daddy Brima won the presidency by defeating Sadick Deen-Nyarkoh with a close vote of 31 to 26, marking the first SLFA elections in eight years and succeeding former FIFA executive member Isha Johansen.

Stalemate between Ahly and Inter Miami in Club World Cup opener
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Stalemate between Al Ahly and Inter Miami in Club World Cup opener

The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup kicked off with an electrifying clash at the iconic Hard Rock Stadium, where African powerhouse Al Ahly faced off against the dazzling Inter Miami, featuring global superstar Lionel Messi.

The atmosphere was charged with anticipation, but the match ended in a stalemate, a testament to the determination and resilience of both teams.

The opening moments of the first half took a heartbreaking turn for the Egyptian champions when Emam Ashour was forced to leave the pitch in tears, succumbing to a painful shoulder injury just 12 minutes into the game. His departure brought debutant Ahmed Sayed Zizo into the fray, igniting hope among the Al Ahly supporters.

As the game progressed, Al Ahly found themselves on the cusp of taking the lead late in the first half. Zizo, who had just stepped onto the field, was brought down in the penalty area, setting the stage for a potentially game-changing moment. However, in a twist of fate, Trezeguet, marking his return to Al Ahly, missed the penalty kick, leaving the scoreline untouched and the crowd in disbelief.

On the other end, Inter Miami threatened to break the deadlock with dangerous plays led by Messi and Luis Suárez. Yet, the steadfast Mohamed El Shenawy stood resolute in goal, delivering two spectacular saves during injury time that secured a hard-fought clean sheet for his team.

Javier Mascherano, head coach of Inter Miami, expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance despite not winning. He noted their dominance in controlling the game and creating chances. He highlighted the importance of starting the season with a win.

Jose Riveiro, head coach of Al Ahly, reflected on the game’s challenges, mentioning missed opportunities in the first half and difficulties in maintaining defensive structure in the second half. He remarked on the unexpected atmosphere of playing in the U.S. compared to Cairo during his first official match with the team.

Both clubs left the pitch with a reward of $1 million each, reflecting FIFA’s incentive structure for the group stage draw.

Looking ahead, Al Ahly will next challenge the formidable Brazilian side Palmeiras on Thursday, June 19, at 7 PM Cairo time, in a pivotal Group A showdown. They will conclude their group campaign against FC Porto on June 23, with eyes set on further glory in this prestigious tournament.

Al Ahly named Squad for FIFA Club World Cup tournament
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Al Ahly and Messi’s Inter Miami to open FIFA Club World Cup tournament

Al Ahly’s coach, José Riveiro, has announced the team that will compete in the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States.

Al Ahly will start the tournament on June 15 with a match against the host team, Inter Miami. In the group stage, they will also play Brazilian club Palmeiras on June 19 and the Portuguese side Porto on June 24.

The referees for the matches are: main referee Ali Reza Faghani, first assistant Anton Shchetin, second assistant Ashley Beecham, and fourth referee Simon Marciniak.

In their last game, Al Ahly drew 1-1 with Pachuca in a friendly match. Inter Miami won their last match 5-1 against the Columbus Crew in Major League Soccer.

Al Ahly, a top team in Egypt, has won the CAF Champions League three times in the past five years. This success gives them their tenth chance to play in the Club World Cup. On the other hand, Inter Miami’s route to the tournament was less straightforward. They won the 2024 MLS Supporters’ Shield for having the best seasonal record but lost 3-2 to Atlanta in the playoffs.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino said this performance earned Inter a spot in the Club World Cup. With coach Javier Mascherano, star players Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, and Sergio Busquets will lead Inter, making them favourites to start strong in Group A.

Hull City sign Moroccan midfielder de Reda Laalaoui
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Hull City sign Moroccan midfielder Reda Laalaoui

The English club signed the 20-year-old player to a four-year contract, with an option for one more year. They reached the agreement on Thursday, June 12, 2025, for an undisclosed fee.

Laalaoui is recognized for his strong capabilities in both defensive and offensive play. He is regarded as one of the most promising young talents in Moroccan football.

His endurance, physical attributes, and technical abilities set him apart. His skill has attracted attention beyond the borders of Morocco.

Upon signing for the Tigers, Laalaoui said: “I am really happy to join Hull City. It is a historic club in England and I am looking forward to helping the team and making the supporters happy.

“It’s a well-known team in England and one of my dreams was to play in England. As you know, it’s one of the best leagues in the world and I am here to improve myself and it’s important for my development.

I always work hard for the team and I play with a lot of grit. I always play to win and I am here to win.

I am looking forward to seeing the fans at the MKM Stadium and I will do my best to make them happy.”

Laalaoui showcased impressive performance with the Moroccan junior national team during the 2025 U20 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt, which took place from April 27 to May 18, 2025.

This season, he participated in 23 matches for his club, FUS Rabat, in the Moroccan league (Botola Pro), netting 4 goals and assisting 3 times.

Ex-Sierra Leone defender earns UEFA A Coaching License
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Ex-Sierra Leone defender Steven Caulker earns UEFA A Coaching License

Former Sierra Leone defender Steven Caulker has taken a notable step forward in his coaching career by earning a UEFA A Coaching License.

The ex-Liverpool and Tottenham player, who captained the Leone Stars of Sierra Leone before International retirement, successfully earned his UEFA A Coaching License eighteen months after securing his B License.

Having completed his UEFA A badge with the English FA, Caulker is now focused on his coaching journey. He expressed his excitement about applying his knowledge on the football field.

“I am really proud to announce that I have obtained my UEFA A Coaching License. It has been a great 12 months of learning with an excellent group of individuals. Now, I am even more excited to begin my coaching journey and put all my learning into practice,” he stated.

Caulker, who played a key role for Sierra Leone during the African Cup of Nations in Cameroon, is transitioning from his playing career to coaching. He believes this path is the future for him and aspires to become a manager someday, with a desire to coach the Sierra Leone national team and promote an attractive style of football among young Sierra Leonean players.

The UEFA A License is the most advanced practical coaching certification available, building upon the technical and tactical knowledge covered in the UEFA B License.

This certification emphasises the development of individual players within units, as well as enhancing understanding of modern game trends, strategies, tactics, systems of play, and the principles of the England DNA.

Senegal's Lions of Teranga overcome England at the Forest Ground
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Senegal’s Lions of Teranga overcome England at the Forest Ground

England faced their first defeat against an African team, losing 3-1 to Senegal in an international friendly at the City Ground.

Thomas Tuchel sought a strong response following England’s uninspired 1-0 victory over Andorra on Saturday. However, they were deservedly beaten in Nottingham.

Senegal, initially trailing after Harry Kane’s early goal against the run of play, managed to turn the match around.

Ismaila Sarr capitalized on Kyle Walker’s slow reaction to equalize just before half-time. Shortly after the hour mark, Habib Diarra slipped away from Morgan Gibbs-White and found space in the right channel, scoring by putting the ball between Dean Henderson’s legs.

England had chances to score, with Edouard Mendy making great saves against Gibbs-White and Bukayo Saka. A goal by substitute Jude Bellingham got called back because of a handball by Levi Colwill, which caused some debate late in the match.

The final result happened when Noni Madueke’s bad free-kick in stoppage time let Senegal counterattack.

They moved quickly, with Youssouf Sabaly scoring calmly past Henderson to secure this historic win. England left the field to a chorus of boos.

New Cambridge United two-year deal for Sullay Kaikai
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

New Cambridge United two-year deal for Sullay Kaikai

Cambridge United has announced that Sullay Kaikai has officially signed a new two-year contract with the club.

The 29-year-old winger, who has made an impressive 102 appearances for the U’s, has agreed to terms that will keep him with the team until 2027.

Originally a loan in 2014 with Crystal Palace, he rejoined United in 2023 after stints elsewhere with NEC Brada, Blackpool, Wycombe Wanderers and MK Dons.

Sullay Kaikai stated, “I’m pleased and eager to prolong my Cambridge trip.” Expressing the course the Head Coach and Club have indicated, I am quite eager to assist. There is a sense of hope around the place, and I’m excited about this next chapter at the Club.”

Neil Harris expressed his happiness about Sullay’s contract extension, noting that working with the new sports science team will benefit him. “When he’s fit, defenders in League Two will find him a handful. His performances have been impressive; he adds versatility on the wings and can also play as a striker.”