Author: Alie Bittar @bittar32

African teams know their 2026 FIFA World Cup opponents
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

African teams know their 2026 FIFA World Cup opponents

Africa’s teams for the 2026 FIFA World Cup learned their group assignments in Washington D.C. on Friday.

The expanded tournament will include 48 teams, and Africa will have nine qualified teams, with the DR Congo hoping to join through play-offs.

Morocco, Africa’s top-ranked team and semi-finalists in 2022, is in Group C with Brazil, Scotland, and Haiti. This matchup with Brazil will attract global attention.

South Africa returns to the World Cup for the first time since 2010, placed in Group A with Mexico, South Korea, and the European play-off winner, aiming for its first knockout stage.

Ivory Coast, champions in 2015 and 2023, competes in Group E alongside Germany, Curaçao, and Ecuador, eyeing progression despite Germany’s strength.

Tunisia, in Group F with the Netherlands, Japan, and a European play-off winner, hopes to capitalise on opportunities against Japan and the play-off team.

Egypt, back since 2018, finds itself in Group G with Belgium, Iran, and New Zealand, presenting a decent chance to advance.

Cape Verde debuts in Group H against Spain, Uruguay, and Saudi Arabia, marking a historic moment for the team.

Algeria faces Argentina, Austria, and Jordan in Group J, with the match against Argentina highly anticipated.

Senegal, Africa’s second-highest-ranked team, is in Group I with France, Norway, and a South American–Asian play-off winner, presenting a tough challenge.

Ghana joins Group L with England, Croatia, and Panama, seeking to regain its strong World Cup form.

DR Congo could join Group K if they win their playoff against Jamaica and Iraq, facing Portugal, Colombia, and another playoff winner.

Africa’s World Cup journey promises exciting matchups and new opportunities.

The 2026 World Cup groups

Group A: Mexico, South Africa, Korea Republic, European Play-Off D winner (Czechia, Denmark, North Macedonia or the Republic of Ireland)

Group B: Canada, European Play-Off A winner (Bosnia and Herzegovina, Italy, Northern Ireland or Wales), Qatar, Switzerland

Group C: Brazil, Morocco, Haiti, Scotland

Group D: United States, Paraguay, Australia, European Play-Off C winner (Kosovo, Romania, Slovakia or Türkiye)

Group E: Germany, Curaçao, Côte d’Ivoire, Ecuador

Group F: Netherlands, Japan, European Play-Off B winner (Albania, Poland, Sweden or Ukraine), Tunisia

Group G: Belgium, Egypt, Iran, New Zealand

Group H: Spain, Cabo Verde, Saudi Arabia, Uruguay

Group I: France, Senegal, FIFA Play-Off Tournament winner 2 (Bolivia, Iraq or Suriname), Norway

Group J: Argentina, Algeria, Austria, Jordan

Group K: Portugal, FIFA Play-Off Tournament winner 1 (DR Congo, Jamaica or New Caledonia), Uzbekistan, Colombia

Group L: England, Croatia, Ghana, Panama 

Alex Bangura makes his Middlesbrough long-awaited return
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Alex Bangura makes his long-awaited Middlesbrough return

Alex Bangura made his long-awaited return to the starting lineup as Middlesbrough FC defeated Derby 2-1 on Saturday. The Sierra Leone International made his first appearance since December 2023.

After the match, the Sierra Leone International struggled to find the words to express his emotions following his comeback.

In a surprising move, Bangura was given a starting position in Kim Hellberg’s inaugural game as Boro manager. He showcased his talent during the 2-1 victory over Derby, earning the man of the match award from the supporters for his impressive performance.

This match marked Bangura’s first competitive start since the first leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final against Chelsea, which took place 22 months ago, making his contribution even more remarkable.

Since joining Boro from Cambuur in the summer of 2023, Bangura has endured a challenging period. His first season was plagued by injuries, resulting in just 19 appearances, and he was forced to sit out the entirety of last season after suffering an Achilles injury early in pre-season.

Big AFCON 2025 blow for Nigeria's Super Eagles as skipper retires
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Big AFCON 2025 blow for Nigeria’s Super Eagles as skipper retires

William Troost-Ekong has decided to retire from international football. This means he will not play for Nigeria in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

The decision comes just days before the Africa Cup of Nations begins in Morocco on December 21, where Nigeria will compete in Group C alongside Tunisia, Tanzania, and Uganda.

The 31-year-old centre-back Troost-Ekong was recently part of Eric Chelle’s preliminary squad for the tournament in Morocco, but has chosen to step aside to allow younger players to take the stage.

He earned 83 caps for the Super Eagles, making his debut under Stephen Keshi in 2015. His last match was a 4-1 win over Gabon before Nigeria’s elimination from World Cup qualifying.

Troost-Ekong participated in the 2018 World Cup and three AFCON tournaments, winning bronze in 2019 and silver in 2023, where he was named Player of the Tournament.

He expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to represent Nigeria, highlighting his growth from a boy in the Netherlands to captain of the Super Eagles.

With accomplishments including 83 caps, participation in five major tournaments, and three medals, he felt fulfilled in his journey. He emphasised the importance of passing the captaincy to the next generation to continue their legacy.

Samuel Chukwueze nets brace in Fulham's defeat to Manchester City
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Samuel Chukwueze nets brace in Fulham’s defeat to Manchester City

Fulham's thrilling comeback ended in heartbreak with a 4-5 defeat to Manchester City at Craven Cottage in Tuesday's Premier League action

City took an early lead with goals from Erling Haaland, Tijjani Reijnders, and Phil Foden. Emile Smith Rowe pulled one back with a header just before halftime.

Despite another goal from Foden and an own goal by Sander Berge putting City ahead, Fulham fought back. Alex Iwobi scored, followed by Samuel Chukwueze’s brace, marking his first goals for the club. A late chance for Josh King to equalise was cleared off the line.

Manager Marco Silva made key adjustments, reinstating Saša Lukić and Smith Rowe after the win against Tottenham. Fulham had opportunities early on but fell behind after two quick City goals. Yet, Smith Rowe’s stoppage-time header brought renewed hope.

In the second half, City’s lead was restored with another goal from Foden, but Fulham persisted. Iwobi’s stunning goal and Chukwueze’s swift volley brought the score to 4-5.

With eight minutes of added time, a dramatic equalizer was tantalizingly close, but King’s effort was heartbreakingly cleared, denying Fulham a remarkable comeback.

Ghanaian defender Maxwell Woledzi MLS side Nashville
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Ghanaian defender Maxwell Woledzi joins MLS side Nashville

Maxwell Woledzi, 24, the defedner, who was instrumental in Fredrikstad FK's 2024 Norwegian Cup win, helping the team secure a spot in the Eliteserien. He was named to the league's Team of the Year and Fredrikstad FK’s Player of the Year in 2025.

In 2018, Woledzi founded the Maxwell Woledzi Foundation and launched The Hijab Project in his hometown of Nima, Ghana, to empower young people, especially girls, in soccer.

On December 2, 2025, Nashville SC announced Woledzi’s signing from Fredrikstad FK for the 2026 season, with an option to extend through 2029. “Maxwell is a fantastic player and a great leader,” said Nashville SC President Mike Jacobs.

Since joining Fredrikstad FK in 2023, Woledzi has made 88 appearances, including 29 league matches in the 2024 season. Before Fredrikstad, he developed at FC Nordsjaelland in Denmark from 2019 to 2022, playing 33 First Team matches, and later played for Vitória Guimarães SC B in Portugal.

Woledzi began his journey at the Right to Dream Academy in Ghana at age 14, which has helped young talent grow both on and off the pitch.

Shocking Cameroon AFCON squad news, no keeper Andre Onana
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Shocking Cameroon AFCON squad news, no keeper Andre Onana

Andre Onana has been excluded from Cameroon's squad for the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 in Morocco, following the dismissal of head coach Marc Brys amidst claims of "subterfuge."

Just days after being re-elected as president of the Cameroonian Football Federation (Fecafoot), Samuel Eto’o and his executive team announced Brys’s exit in a dramatic statement.

The statement details a long list of accusations against Brys, including allegations of “professional failure” and claims that he incited players to oppose Fecafoot’s authority.

The Belgian coach, who was appointed by Cameroon’s sports ministry in April 2024—a decision Eto’o aimed to overturn—also faces accusations of “collaborating with unknown individuals” within Fecafoot.

Furthermore, he is criticised for missing important meetings, withholding training schedules, damaging relationships with sponsors, delaying his squad announcements, and avoiding his responsibility to hold press conferences.

Stepping in for Brys is one of his assistants, David Pagou, a seasoned Cameroonian coach with experience managing several teams in the country’s top league.

However, Pagou’s 28-man squad for the upcoming Afcon in Morocco, set to kick off on December 21, notably lacks several key players. Among those missing are goalkeeper Onana, team captain Vincent Aboubakar, Napoli midfielder Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa, who is sidelined due to injury and defender Michael Ngadeu.

While Anguissa’s absence is understood, no explanations have been provided for the exclusion of the other players.

Striker Daniel Kanu takes his Walsall tally to seven in League Two
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Striker Daniel Kanu takes his Walsall tally to seven in League Two

Sierra Leone international Daniel Kanu raised his season tally to seven as Walsall came from behind to secure a 3-1 victory over Bromley, keeping them at the top of League Two.

Bromley took an early lead after 18 minutes when Mitch Pinnock capitalised on a poor pass from Priestley Farquharson, finding Ben Krauhaus. Krauhaus made no mistake, firing a low shot into the net from 12 yards.

Walsall nearly equalised shortly after, but Ravens midfielder Ashley Charles made a fantastic block to prevent Jamille Matt from scoring just inches from the goal line.

In the second half, Walsall’s goalkeeper Myles Roberts denied Bromley a second goal, saving Idris Odutayo’s powerful shot from 30 yards out, while Michael Cheek saw his follow-up effort ruled offside.

Walsall finally levelled the score in the 65th minute when Kanu expertly controlled a knockdown from Aden Flint following a free-kick and squeezed the ball home from close range.

They took the lead in the 80th minute when Farquharson nodded a deep cross back across the goal, allowing Ryan Finnigan to loop a header into the far corner of the net.

Walsall sealed the win deep into stoppage time when Albert Adomah broke forward and squared the ball for an unmarked Courtney Clarke, who steered it home with ease.

Burkina Faso attacker Dango Ouattara nets in Brentford win over Burnley
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Burkina Faso attacker Dango Ouattara nets in Brentford win over Burnley

Burkina Faso attacker Dango Ouattara scored as Brentford moved up to eighth place in the Premier League after defeating Burnley 3-1. The game featured three late goals, all scored within 11 minutes.

Igor Thiago scored two late goals as Brentford secured the victory at the Gtech Community Stadium. After missing a crucial penalty against Brighton last week, Thiago was once again in the spotlight during an exciting finish to Saturday’s match.

The first half was uneventful, but five minutes into the second half, Thiago had a goal disallowed for offside. He broke the deadlock in the 81st minute with a penalty after Dango Ouattara was fouled by Axel Tuanzebe.

Burnley equalised just four minutes later with a penalty from Zian Flemming after Jaidon Anthony was fouled. However, Thiago quickly regained the lead for Brentford with another goal after a cross from Jordan Henderson, just 72 seconds later.

In stoppage time, Ouattara secured the win with a goal past Martin Dubravka. Thiago’s performance has been exceptional, reaching 11 goals this season, second only to Erling Haaland, and setting a record for the fewest matches played for a Brentford player to achieve this milestone.

With this victory, Brentford has now won three home games in a row for the first time since December 2024, scoring three goals in each match and temporarily rising to eighth in the league table.

Attacker Mustapha Bundu nets first Bundesliga 2 goal
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Attacker Mustapha Bundu nets first Bundesliga 2 goal

Sierra Leone player Mustapha Bundu scored his first goal of the season in Bundesliga II. His team, Hannover, won 3-0 against Karlsruhe on Friday.

The first half ended without any goals, but after halftime, the Reds quickly took control of the game with two quick goals. Key moments included Benedikt Pichler’s comeback goal and Mustapha Bundu’s first goal of the season.

Goals:- 1-0 (68th minute): Aseko runs down the wing and passes to Chakroun, who places the ball perfectly into the bottom right corner of Bernat’s net.

2-0 (70th minute): Aseko pushes past several KSC defenders. Despite pressure, the on-loan Bayern Munich player plays a through ball to Pichler, who chips it over Bernat into the net.

3-0 (77th minute): Neubauer steals the ball and passes to Bundu, who is unmarked. Bundu stays calm in front of Bernat and scores, marking his first goal in the Reds’ jersey!

The highlight of the game: Benedikt Pichler made a fantastic comeback after a long injury. He scored just four minutes after returning to play following a knee injury.

The statistics of the game: Just two minutes separated the goals by Chakroun and Pichler, which helped secure a comfortable home win over KSC.

What’s next: In a week, the team will play again. They will start matchday 15 on Friday at 6:30 p.m., away at the LVM-Preußenstadion. Head coach Christian Titz is eager to lead the team to another victory.

Keeper Mamadou Jalloh extends VPS loan deal until 2026 from Brøndby
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Keeper Mamadou Jalloh extends VPS loan deal from Brøndby until 2026

Sierra Leone International Mamadou Jalloh, who has been strengthening VPS's goalkeeping since the end of August, will continue as the team's goalkeeper next season.

VPS and Brøndby IF have reached an agreement on the loan of the young Danish goalkeeper. Sports director Tommi Pikkarainen mentioned that the process was challenging, but the effort proved worthwhile.

“Madu demonstrated in the latter part of the season what an excellent young goalkeeper he is. Negotiations weren’t easy, but both parties worked hard to make it happen. In the end, we found common ground, which is fortunate for everyone involved,” said VPS Sports director Tommi Pikkarainen.

Jalloh himself is excited about the successful agreement. “I am really happy that the deal was completed. I’ve wanted to return to the club since the end of last season, and it feels great to officially be a VPS player again.”

The 18-year-old goalkeeper is also very grateful for the trust he has received at Raida. “Last season, I learned a lot in a short period of time. I felt like I was improving with every training session and match while working with the VPS coaching staff. The club believed in me from the start, and I want to repay that trust in the coming season.”

Jalloh’s goals for next season align with those of his teammates. He is aiming for a top-six finish. “I want to compete in every match and help Vepsu return to the top half of the Veikkausliiga. My personal goal is to play as much as possible and improve every time I step on the field.”