Author: Alie Bittar @bittar32

DR Congo picks up Africa's final 2026 World Cup spot
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

DR Congo pick up Africa’s final 2026 World Cup spot

After 52 years since their last World Cup participation as Zaire in the 1974 finals in West Germany, where they fell to Scotland, Yugoslavia, and Brazil, the central African country is set to make their return.

In an intercontinental playoff going to extra time, the Democratic Republic of Congo defeated Jamaica 1–0 on Tuesday.

From a corner in the 100th minute, Burnley defender Axel Tuanzebe scored the game-winning goal, hence guaranteeing Congo’s place in Group K against Portugal, Colombia, and Uzbekistan.

Having eliminated African powerhouses Nigeria and Cameroon to get to this playoff in Mexico, the Leopards’ path to the World Cup has been spectacular.

Though DR Congo dominated possession throughout the game versus Jamaica and battled to breach a strong defence, an early goal was disallowed for offside, and despite the continued threat of Cedric Bakambu, Jamaica had only one significant opportunity.

Tuanzebe finally found the net in extra time following a few near misses, giving Congo the lead and a historic return to the World Cup.

Mamadou Wurie Jalloh makes Sierra Leone debut
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Mamadou Wurie Jalloh makes Sierra Leone debut

Mamadou Wurie, the young goalkeeper currently playing for Finnish club VPS in the Veikkausliiga, has made his international debut with Sierra Leone.

“First of all, thank you to Coach Kallon, the staff and my teammates for the trust and support. I really appreciate it. Proud to make my debut for Sierra Leone. It has always been a dream to wear this shirt. Of course, not the performance I wanted; I take full responsibility for that moment.
But I learn and grow, and I come back stronger. This is just the beginning,” Jalloh shared with this medium.

Jalloh was included in the starting eleven for the Leone Stars in a penalty shootout defeat against Azerbaijan on Tuesday.

Sierra Leone got off to a strong start, with Danile Kanu scoring to put the visitors ahead. However, the home team equalised, taking the match into penalties after 90 minutes.

Wurie played the entire match and was happy with his contribution. He shared on Instagram, “Hard lesson, but a big moment. A debut with Sierra Leone.”

“First of all, thank you to Coach Kallon, the staff and my teammates for the trust and support. I really appreciate it. Proud to make my debut for Sierra Leone. It has always been a dream to wear this shirt. Of course, not the performance I wanted; I take full responsibility for that moment. But I learn and grow, and I come back stronger. This is just the beginning,” Jalloh shared with this medium.

Nineteen-year-old Jalloh was the first-choice keeper for the Sierra Leone U20 team during the Cup of Nations tournament in Egypt, where they were eliminated by Morocco in the quarter-finals of the TotalEnergies CAF U20 Africa Cup of Nations Egypt 2025 in Cairo.

Mamadou Wurie Jalloh makes Sierra Leone debut
Mamadou Wurie Jalloh makes Sierra Leone debut
Ghana start new search for head coach ahead of World Cup
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Ghana start new search for head coach ahead of World Cup

Ghana is set to welcome a new coach for the upcoming World Cup in June after parting ways with Otto Ado following their disappointing 2-1 loss to Germany.

The Ghana Football Association (GFA) have announced that Otto Addo will be stepping down.

The Hamburg-born former Bundesliga player has led the Ghanaian national team for the past two years. Unfortunately, the defeat in Stuttgart marked the fourth consecutive loss for the “Black Stars.”

As of now, it remains unclear who will take the helm after the 50-year-old Addo. Ghana’s group stage opponents in the World Cup will include England, Croatia, and Panama.

Azerbaijan defeat Sierra Leone in FIFA series friendly on penalties
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Azerbaijan defeat Sierra Leone in FIFA series friendly on penalties

At the Mehdi Hüseynzadə adına Sumqayıt şəhər stadionu in Sumqayıt, host Azerbaijan won 9-8 on penalties after battling to a 1–1 draw over 90 minutes with Sierra Leone in an international friendly on March 30, 2026.

Forward Daniel Kanu put Sierra Leone ahead with a composed finish, assisted by Barnet player Idriss Kanu, marking an important moment for the young striker on the international stage.

Azerbaijan responded later in the match, equalising through Rahil Mammadov to ensure both sides shared the spoils. The contest was competitive, with both teams creating chances and testing each other’s defences throughout.

Several players made their debut, including Mamadou Wurie, a young goalkeeper currently with VPS in Finland’s Veikkausliiga. Yayah Kallon plays in Italy’s Serie C with Casertana FC, and former U20 defender Alpha Kabia is with Minnesota 2 in the USA.

The result reflects a balanced encounter and provides valuable experience for both squads as they continue preparations for upcoming international competitions and future fixtures.

Azerbaijan defeat Sierra Leone in FIFA series friendly on penalties
Azerbaijan defeat Sierra Leone in FIFA series friendly on penalties
CAF announces shock expansion of AFCON from 24 to 28 teams
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

CAF announces shock expansion of AFCON from 24 to 28 teams

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has unveiled plans to increase the number of teams competing in the Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) finals.

Currently, 24 teams participate in the tournament, which takes place every two years. However, CAF President Patrice Motsepe made a surprising announcement in Cairo on Sunday, revealing that this number will rise to 28 teams in future editions of the tournament.

Motsepe stated that this change reflects the organisation’s commitment to showcasing world-class football and welcoming the best African players from around the globe to compete on their home turf. However, he did not provide details on how or when these changes would be implemented.

This isn’t the first time the competition format has been altered; in 2019, the tournament expanded from 16 teams to its current 24. Yet again, Afcon is set for further modifications, as its biennial scheduling will shift to a model similar to that of Europe, taking place once every four years.

The 2027 edition will proceed as planned, leading into a special 2028 edition that will mark this transition.

To enhance the African football landscape, Motsepe also announced the introduction of a continental version of UEFA’s Nations League. This new competition will feature annual matches and a biennial final tournament comprising 16 teams.

These changes come against a backdrop of controversy surrounding the final of the 2025 edition in January. A match between Senegal and Morocco descended into chaos when Senegal walked off the pitch following a contentious penalty call.

Although they later returned to win the game, Morocco contested that Senegal’s departure amounted to a rule violation, leading to a successful appeal that saw Morocco retroactively declared the champions in March, nearly two months after the final took place.

In a show of defiance against this decision, Senegal has appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport and was seen parading the trophy in Paris over the weekend.

DR Congo set for Jamaica cracker for a spot at World Cup
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

DR Congo set for Jamaica cracker for a spot at World Cup

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DR Congo) is set to face Jamaica in the final of Path A of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Play-off Tournament, where a coveted spot in the global event is at stake.

Jamaica secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over New Caledonia in the semi-final held at the Guadalajara Stadium in Guadalajara, Mexico, on Friday morning (Central Africa Time).

Wrexham’s Bailey Cadamarteri was the standout player for the Reggae Boyz, scoring the decisive goal in the 18th minute. Ronaldo Webster took a shot from a set piece just outside the area, forcing New Caledonia’s goalkeeper, Rocky Nyikeine, to make a save.

The goalkeeper deflected the ball to his right, right into the path of the onrushing Cadamarteri, who made no mistake from close range.

The Reggae Boyz fired off 12 shots, with four hitting the target, while New Caledonia could only manage five shots, two of which were on goal.

Having claimed victory in last year’s African play-off tournament, DR Congo automatically secured a place in the World Cup Play-off Tournament final and now knows who it will be up against.

The Leopards triumphed over both Cameroon and Nigeria to reach this point and are eager to clinch a spot in the World Cup for the first time since their initial appearance as Zaire in 1974.

Jamaica and DR Congo will clash at the Guadalajara Stadium on Tuesday, March 31, (15:00 local time) the winner earning a place in the World Cup in this high-stakes showdown.

Nigeria Super Eagles edge Iran In Friday's International friendly
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Nigeria edge Iran in Friday’s international friendly

Goals from Moses Simon, marking his 96th senior cap for Nigeria, and Jerome Akor Adams secured a 2-1 victory for Nigeria against Iran in an international friendly held in Antalya, Turkey, on Friday.

At the Corendon Airlines Park in Antalya, the Super Eagles showcased a blend of early attacking flair and late defensive solidity, reflecting the evolving identity of an Eric Chelle-coached team. The three-time AFCON champions quickly asserted their dominance in the match.

From the kickoff, Samuel Chukwueze set up Moses Simon, who scored just six minutes in, giving Nigeria an early lead. Chelle’s side kept control in the first half but couldn’t extend their advantage before halftime.

After the break, debutant Emmanuel Fernandez replaced Semi Ajayi, and six minutes later, Ademola Lookman assisted Akor Adams to double the lead. Nigeria added Chibuike Nwaiwu for Igoh Ogbu, marking his debut.

Iran responded with a goal from Mehdi Taremi, but Nigeria held firm. Chelle made further substitutions, bringing on Paul Onuachu, Chidera Ejuke, and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru to maintain energy and control.

Frank Onyeka also made a late appearance, helping Nigeria close out the match. This victory marks Nigeria’s second win over Iran, with their last meeting resulting in a goalless draw at the 2014 World Cup.

Next, the Super Eagles face Jordan on March 31, offering Chelle another chance to prepare for the AFCON 2027 qualifiers.

General Secretary shake-up at the Confederation of African Football
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

General Secretary shake-up at the Confederation of African Football

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) is bracing for a shake-up following the announcement that its long-time general secretary, Veron Mosengo-Omba, intends to step down.

As reported by AfricaSoccer.com, the official from DR Congo will leave his position when CAF’s Executive Committee meets in Cairo on Friday.

Mosengo-Omba’s decision comes amid growing criticism of his continued tenure, particularly after he surpassed the organisation’s mandatory retirement age.

According to sources within CAF’s Executive Committee, if Mosengo-Omba does not resign voluntarily, some influential board members are ready to seek his immediate removal formally.

The controversy centres on CAF’s Regulation 130, which mandates a retirement age of 63, with a maximum three-year extension. Mosengo-Omba, who was appointed in March 2021 at age 61, reached this threshold in October 2022.

CAF president Patrice Motsepe granted him the full extension, which lapses in October 2025. After that, no further extensions can be granted—yet Mosengo-Omba has remained in his role, even as he oversaw major tournaments such as December’s AFCON in Morocco.

His extended presence in office has revealed deeper issues within CAF. Critics argue that permitting a senior official to stay beyond the legal limit undermines the organization’s credibility and governance.

There are also concerns that contracts signed during this period may be challenged. The lack of action from CAF’s oversight bodies, including its Audit and Governance Committees, has heightened worries about accountability.

Adding to the scrutiny is Mosengo-Omba’s close relationship with FIFA president Gianni Infantino. Although FIFA has not publicly commented, critics view its silence as implicit support.

Insiders describe the atmosphere surrounding CAF’s leadership as increasingly “toxic,” which has led Mosengo-Omba to choose a voluntary departure over a public showdown.

With no deputy general secretaries appointed throughout his tenure, CAF now finds itself facing a leadership void. The organisation must swiftly decide whether to focus on succession planning or to overhaul its governance structures in a bid to restore credibility.

South Sudan ease past Djibouti in AFCON preliminary first leg
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

South Sudan ease past Djibouti in AFCON preliminary first leg

South Sudan delivered an impressive performance, securing a dominant 4-0 victory over Djibouti in the first leg of the CAF Africa Cup of Nations PAMOJA 2027 Preliminary Round in Juba on Thursday.

Keer Majak shone brightly, contributing a goal and two assists, as South Sudan firmly took control of the tie ahead of the return leg, which will also take place in the same venue.

This result provides South Sudan with a substantial edge in its quest to advance to the group stage of the qualifiers, leaving Djibouti with a significant challenge ahead in the second leg.

Right from the start, South Sudan made their intentions clear and found the back of the net in the 31st minute. Justin Bangasi laid off a perfect pass for Teng Kuol, who opened the scoring.

This goal boosted the hosts’ confidence, prompting them to maintain relentless pressure, while Djibouti struggled to keep up with South Sudan’s speed and attacking flair. Despite this initial onslaught, Djibouti managed to hold on until halftime, maintaining a glimmer of hope at 1-0 going into the break.

However, any hopes Djibouti had of mounting a comeback were swiftly dashed after the halftime break, as South Sudan kicked their intensity up a notch. Just four minutes into the second half, in the 49th minute, Bangasi struck again, finishing off a well-crafted move with Majak playing a key role throughout the match.

Majak continued to make his mark, turning provider once more in the 66th minute, setting up Peter Manyang to extend the lead to 3-0, effectively sealing the outcome. To cap off an outstanding individual performance, Majak scored South Sudan’s fourth goal in the 81st minute, confirming a comprehensive win.

This defeat leaves Djibouti facing an uphill battle in the return leg, where they will need a stellar performance to overcome the deficit. With both legs being hosted in Juba, they will look to leverage their familiarity with the conditions to turn things around in the second encounter.

Seychelles and Lesotho Play to a Standstill in Bloemfontein

In a separate match on Thursday in Bloemfontein, Seychelles and Lesotho finished goalless at the Free State Stadium. The two teams will meet again for the return leg at the same neutral venue in the South African city on Sunday.

These matches are part of the opening round of qualifiers for the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations PAMOJA 2027, featuring the lowest-ranked teams vying for six spots in the next stage.

First leg AFCON 2027 preliminary qualifying advantage for Eritrea
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Eritrea beat Eswatini to grab 2027 AFCON preliminary qualifying advantage

Eritrea clinched a 2-0 win against Eswatini in the first leg of the CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) PAMOJA 2027 Preliminary Round qualifier, held in Meknes, Morocco, on Wednesday.

The breakthrough came in the 81st minute when Siem Eyob-Abraha’s corner kick surprisingly curled straight into the net, catching everyone off guard.

Four minutes into stoppage time, their star player, Ali Suleiman, added to the scoreline with a dazzling run down the left side, unleashing a powerful strike into the roof of the net from close range.

This match marked Eritrea’s first continental qualifier in nearly two decades, though they did miss a penalty when Suleiman’s shot was saved by Eswatini’s goalkeeper, Mlamuli Makhanya, who made a crucial dive to his right.

Interestingly, Eritrea’s last CAF AFCON qualifier was also against Eswatini back in September 2007, where they finished second in their qualification group.

Now, both teams will head to Eswatini for the return leg, scheduled for Tuesday next week.

This match kicked off the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON PAMOJA 2027 Preliminary Round qualifiers. The six teams that advance from this round will join the other 42 Member Associations in the Group Phase.

Next year, the continental finals will be co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, marking the first time the tournament will take place in East Africa in 51 years.