Author: Alie Bittar @bittar32

AFCON U20 Match-Day Two Preview Sierra Leone v Egypt
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Preview: Sierra Leone Battle Host Egypt in AFCON U20 Match Day Two

On Wednesday at the Suez Canal Stadium in Ismailia, Sierra Leone and host country Egypt will square off during the CAF Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Scheduled start time for the game is 21:00 local (18:00 GMT).

Sierra Leone coach Mohamed Lamin Kamara is expected to make a few changes to the starting lineup against Zambia, aiming for positive results against the host nation.

“We will make one or possibly two tactical adjustments for our next match against Egypt. Coach Kamara briefly explained that his side have been focused on converting goal chances, unlike in our first game.”

Without a doubt, the Shooting Stars will be looking for their first win after playing their opening match to a goalless draw. By contrast, Egypt, who won 1-0 against South Africa in their opening match on Sunday, will be hoping for back-to-back victories.

This is Sierra Leone’s first show in the tournament, and their first match ended in a 0-0 draw against Zambia.

Egypt has warned players about collective formation as the national under-20 team wraps up training in Ismailia under technical director Osama Nabiyeh. They are preparing for their second match in the African Cup of Nations against Sierra Leone.

Nabiyeh emphasized the need for adherence to technical instructions and encouraged a fighting spirit, which was key in their 1-0 victory over South Africa in the opening match. He noted that the tournament is tough, with all teams closely matched, and success will come from effort and perseverance.

Egypt’s last match against a team making its tournament debut was in the 2005 semi-finals against Benin, which also ended in a 1-1 draw before Egypt won on penalties.

Historically, Egypt has encountered tournament debutants ten times since 1979, resulting in three wins, four draws, and three losses.

Without a doubt, the Shooting Stars will be looking for their first win after playing their opening match to a goalless draw.
Without a doubt, the Shooting Stars will be looking for their first win after playing their opening match to a goalless draw.
Nigeria set for Tunisia U-20 Cup of Nations cracker
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Nigeria set for Tunisia U-20 Cup of Nations cracker

Nigeria’s Flying Eagles are preparing to extend their dominance at the Africa U-20 Cup of Nations, which started on Sunday in Egypt. Led by coach Aliyu Zubairu, the Flying Eagles are the tournament’s most successful team, having won seven titles.

They are aiming for an unprecedented eighth crown as they open their Group B campaign against Tunisia on  Thursday at the June 30 Stadium in Cairo.

In addition to Tunisia, the Flying Eagles will face Morocco and Kenya in what promises to be a fiercely contested group.

To prepare for the U-20 AFCON, Nigeria played three international friendly matches, including two against Cote d’Ivoire. The Flying Eagles won two of these matches, defeating both the Ivorians and Egypt.

Hosts Egypt made a winning start in the competition, achieving a hard-fought 1-0 victory over South Africa at Cairo International Stadium.

Mohamed Abdallah scored the decisive goal in the second half. Despite suffering three first-half injuries that forced early substitutions, the Young Pharaohs maintained their composure and rightfully claimed maximum points.

Ndidi set to leave Leicester City due to a relegation release clause
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Wilfred Ndidi set to leave Leicester due to relegation release clause

Leicester midfielder Wilfred Ndidi can leave the club for £9 million because of a release clause. This clause became active when Leicester lost 1-0 to Liverpool last weekend, which sent them down to the Championship with five games left in the season.

Since then, Leicester has also lost 3-0 to Wolves, and Ndidi is one of several players thinking about his future. The club believes it can rebuild its squad, as release clauses are rare at Leicester, and only three players’ contracts end this summer: goalkeepers Daniel Iversen and Danny Ward, and legendary striker Jamie Vardy, who is leaving after 13 years at the club.

Ndidi attracted interest from clubs like Marseille and Everton when he was a free agent last summer. However, he signed a new three-year deal with Leicester then.

He joined the club in 2017 for £17 million from Genk, and the interest from other teams likely led to his new contract including a release clause. Ndidi has won an FA Cup and the Championship while at Leicester and has played 27 times in all competitions this season.

Simba FC through to CAF Confed final after goalless draw
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Simba through to CAF Confed final after goalless draw

Simba secured a place in the final of the TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup after battling to a goalless draw against Stellenbosch FC at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Sunday.

The Tanzanian giants advanced 1-0 on aggregate due to their first-leg victory in Zanzibar, and their disciplined defensive display was enough to keep the South Africans at bay in Durban.

Needing a win to overturn the deficit, Stellenbosch pushed forward aggressively but were unable to penetrate an inspired Simba defense and goalkeeper Moussa Camara, who stood tall throughout the tense encounter.

Stellenbosch came closest to scoring in the closing stages, with Fawaaz Basadien and Ismaël Touré both missing crucial opportunities late in the game. Devin Titus and Sanele Barns also saw their efforts narrowly miss the target as the hosts searched desperately for a breakthrough.

Simba continues to pursue their dream of winning a continental title for the first time since 1993 by reaching the final, where they will face the winner of CS Constantine and RS Berkane.

For Stellenbosch, this marks the end of their historic Confederation Cup campaign, achieving the last four in their first continental venture. Simba will rely on their strong defense as they prepare for the final, aiming to secure the trophy.

Simba’s victory keeps alive their dream of winning a continental title for the first time since 1993, when they were runners-up in the old CAF Cup. They will now face the winner of CS Constantine and RS Berkane in the final.

For Stellenbosch, their historic Confederation Cup campaign ends in the semi-finals, exceeding expectations in their first venture into continental football. Simba will build on their solid defense as they prepare for the final, aiming to complete their journey with a trophy.

Opposition Watch - Egypt shift to Ismailia ahead of Sierra Leone tie
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Opposition Watch – Egypt shift to Ismailia ahead of Sierra Leone tie

Egypt, the host country, has shifted their attention to the next game against Sierra Leone on matchday two of the U20 Cup of Nations following their close 1-0 win over South Africa. The team from Cairo safely reached Ismailia.

A representative from the Egyptian delegation confirmed that they will be staying at the Mercure Ismailia Forsan Island Hotel, the same accommodation chosen by Sierra Leone, ahead of their games against the Shooting Stars and Zambia.

Sierra Leone will face off against the North African team, Egypt, on Wednesday, April 30th, before the young Pharaohs host Zambia on May 3rd. Both matches are scheduled to take place at the Suez Canal Stadium.

Egypt won their opening match and leads Group A. They will play Sierra Leone on Wednesday, while South Africa takes on Tanzania.

The Pharaohs aim for their fifth U-20 continental title, having won in 1981, 1991, 2003, and 2013.

The top four teams will qualify for the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile later this year. A strong start is key, and Egypt impressed their home fans with a promising beginning.

Zambia and Sierra Leone share opening U20 AFCON spoils
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Zambia and Sierra Leone share opening U20 AFCON spoils

Sierra Leone made their U20 AFCON debut was impressive in the 0-0 draw of the opening match in Group A at the TotalEnergies CAF Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations, held in Egypt in 2025.

The match, which took place at the Suez Canal Stadium on Sunday, was closely contested, with both teams struggling to capitalize on their chances. The game was energetic but lacked the clinical finishing necessary to secure a win.

Zambia, the winners of the 2017 edition, controlled possession for large portions of the match but faced frustration from a determined Sierra Leone defense. Joseph Sabobo stood out for the Young Chipolopolo, making several attempts that required saves from Sierra Leone goalkeeper Samba Bah, but he was unable to break through.

Sierra Leone, in their first appearance at this level, showcased their composure and created opportunities of their own. Samba Bah and Nathaniel Jalloh consistently threatened Zambia’s defense, while Alpha Turay nearly scored with a header early in the first half.

As the second half progressed, both teams became increasingly eager to find a winning goal. Zambia thought they had clinched a victory late in the game, with Emmanuel Mutale and David Simukonda coming close, but neither could find the net.

Sierra Leone came close to scoring as Samba Bah’s header was saved in the final moments of the match, resulting in a draw.

This leaves Group A competitive ahead of the later match between hosts Egypt and South Africa. While Zambia created several chances, they will regret their finishing, while Sierra Leone can be proud of their strong debut performance and look to build on it.

Both teams will now focus on their next matches to secure advancement to the quarter-finals, where the top two teams from each group and the two best third-placed teams will progress.

Josh Koroma nets in Hudderfield defeat to Exeter
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Josh Koroma nets in Hudderfield defeat to Exeter

Sierra Leone’s Josh Koroma was on target as Exeter concluded their season with an impressive 3-1 victory over Huddersfield in their final home game of the League One season.

The Terriers opened the scoring after 20 minutes with their first shot on goal. Hudderfield’s Josh Koroma found space on the left and curled an excellent finish into the far corner from 20 yards.

Exeter equalized in the 39th minute when Jack McMillan broke free down the right wing and delivered a low cross into the box. Ilmari Niskanen made a timely run to the back post and fired the ball past goalkeeper Jacob Chapman.

The second half was entertaining, with Sonny Cox being denied by Chapman and Joe Whitworth coming to Exeter’s rescue with a fine save against Koroma.

From the resulting corner, Herbie Kane volleyed a stunning effort into the bottom corner, but it was disallowed for offside. Exeter took the lead in the 56th minute when McMillan scored after finishing smartly from a long throw by Alex Hartridge, which was flicked on by Angus MacDonald.

Whitworth continued to shine with a superb one-handed save against Koroma, while Matty Pearson had a header that struck the crossbar.

Sierra Leone's Mustapha Bundu continues fine form as Plymouth fight survival
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Sierra Leone’s Mustapha Bundu continues fine form as Plymouth fight survival

Despite beating Preston North End, who have only one victory in their last 14 matches, Plymouth Argyle met almost certain relegation from the Championship; Mustapha Bundu of Sierra Leone scored his 11th goal of the season in all competitions.

Luton Town’s win over Coventry City meant Argyle needed to win both of their remaining matches and significantly improve their goal difference to avoid relegation. Although Mustapha Bundu scored in the first half, followed by Callum Wright’s goal after the break, Argyle’s fate is likely sealed barring an unlikely turn of events.

Preston, despite dominating possession and creating chances, could only score a late goal from Emil Riis, leaving them one point above the relegation zone. Derby County’s victory over Hull City pushed them ahead of Preston, while Luton is also on 49 points, one point clear of the relegation spot.

Despite a strong start, Argyle’s confidence was shaken after Bundu’s goal. Preston created opportunities, but they struggled to find the back of the net. A misplay allowed Wright to score, securing the win for Argyle as they held on through six minutes of added time to record only their 11th victory in 45 matches.

Suez Canal Stadium to host Sierra Leone, Zambia U20 AFCON Opener
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Suez Canal Stadium to host Sierra Leone, Zambia U20 AFCON Opener

The 2025 U20 African Cup of Nations will kick off in Ismailia, Egypt, on Sunday, April 27, with debutant Sierra Leone set to face Zambia at 15:00 GMT (18:00 local time in Egypt).

Head coach Mohamed Lamin Kamara has stated that his team is fully focused on the upcoming challenge. “Zambian youth teams have always been a difficult opponent, but we are here to make history and represent ourselves well,” Kamara said during the pre-match press conference.

With the recent arrival of three foreign-based players—Osman Kamara from Arsenal, Abraham Kanu from Reading, and forward Kevin Bobson Kargbo from RWDM—Coach Kamara now has a fully fit squad to choose from for the opening match.

The 17th edition of Africa’s premier youth competition is set to run from April 27 to May 18, 2025, featuring 13 countries competing across three cities: Cairo, Ismailia, and Suez. Matches will be held at three stadiums located in these cities.

Opposition: Zambia

The Zambia U20 Men’s National Team has received a boost ahead of the 2025 TotalEnergies CAF U20 AFCON with the arrival of three foreign-based players: Frank Chileshe and Bonephanseo Phiri from Georgia, and Aaron Mbemba from Spain. This brings the total number of players in camp to 23, with only Brazil-based striker Andrew Mulenga yet to arrive.

Meanwhile, host nation Egypt will face South Africa at the Cairo International Stadium. The top four semifinalists from this tournament will qualify for the 2025 FIFA U20 World Cup, which will be held in Chile from September 27 to October 19.

Stadium Background

The Suez Canal Authority Stadium, which is also used by Olympic El Qanah, will host the games. The stadium underwent a complete renovation between 2019 and 2022, during which it was demolished and rebuilt from scratch. Originally accommodating 10,000 spectators, it now has a capacity of 22,000 and is an all-seater venue designed by Ahmed Ragab, the Head Engineer of the Suez Canal Authority.

Groups for the TotalEnergies CAF Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations, Egypt 2025

Group A: Egypt, Zambia, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Tanzania  

Group B: Nigeria, Tunisia, Kenya, Morocco  

Group C: Senegal, Central African Republic, DR Congo, Ghana  

South Africa U20 Amajita arrive in egypt ahead of U20 AFCON
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

South Africa’s Amajita arrive in Egypt ahead of U20 AFCON

The South African U-20 team has arrived in Cairo to participate in the African Cup, set to begin on Sunday in Cairo and Ismailia.

The delegation arrived at Cairo Airport on Thursday morning to compete in the Africa Cup of Under-20, which runs from Sunday until May 18.

Thirteen teams will compete for the title, with the top four qualifying for the World Cup scheduled to take place in Chile between September and October 2025.

Under the guidance of Coach Raymond Madaka, the team is in the first group, and their campaign begins with an opening match against Egypt at Cairo International Stadium on Sunday evening. They will also face Tanzania on April 30 at the Suez Canal Authority Stadium in Ismailia and Sierra Leone on May 6 at the new Suez Stadium. The group stage will conclude for Amajita with a match against Zambia on May 9 at the 30th of June Stadium in Air Defense.

The South African national team, known as “Amajita,” qualifies for the U-20 African Cup for the ninth time in its history. They secured their place by finishing the COSAFA regional qualifiers with three victories: defeating Malawi 5-0, Lesotho 6-0, and the Comoros Islands 2-0 in the group stage. They then advanced to the semi-finals, where they triumphed over Angola 1-0, and secured their spot in the final by outclassing Zambia 2-0.