Author: Alie Bittar @bittar32

Morocco advance after win over Tanzania in CHAN quarter-final
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Morocco advance after win over Tanzania in CHAN quarter-final

Morocco defeated Tanzania 1-0 in the quarter-finals of the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) PAMOJA 2024, ending Tanzania’s remarkable tournament run.

The match, held at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, saw Oussama Lamlaoui score the sole goal in the 65th minute, assisted by Youssef Belammari.

The game was tightly contested, with Tanzania creating chances through Clement Mzize and Feisal Salum, but Morocco’s goalkeeper, El Mehdi Al Harrar, made crucial saves. As the match progressed, Morocco began to take control, with Lamlaoui being a constant threat.

Despite trailing, Tanzania continued to press for an equalizer, with Mzize nearly scoring with a header and substitute Nassor Saadun missing a late opportunity. Morocco’s defense, led by Mohamed Moufid and Mehdi Mchakhchekh, held firm to secure the win.

This victory marks Morocco’s seventh consecutive win in CHAN knockout rounds since 2014. Though their tournament ends at this stage, Tanzania can take pride in their achievement of reaching the quarter-finals for the first time, boasting the best defensive record and showcasing the potential of East African football.

Morocco now looks forward to the semi-finals in pursuit of their third title.

Madagascar stun co-hosts Kenya in penalty shootout
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Madagascar stun co-hosts Kenya in penalty shootout

Co-hosts Kenya of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), was shocked on Thursday as their team, the Harambee Stars, lost to Madagascar in a penalty shootout during the opening quarterfinal at Kasarani Stadium in Nairobi.

Madagascar came back from a goal down to equalize, sending Kenya home after defender Alphonce Omija missed his penalty kick. As a result, they advanced to the CHAN semis after wining 4-3 on penalties at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani in Nairobi on August 22, 2025.

Madagascar defended strongly against a fierce Kenyan attack in the first half, with goalkeeper Michel “Toldo” Ramandimbisoa making crucial saves. In the second half, Kenya took the lead when Boniface Muchiri’s free kick was headed in by Alphonce Omija in the 48th minute.

Madagascar quickly equalized with a penalty converted by Fenohasina Razafimaro after a handball by Kenya’s Lewis Esambe Bandi.

The match remained tied despite chances from both teams, leading to extra time, where Kenya struggled to break through Madagascar’s defense.

After no changes in score during extra time, the match went to penalties. Madagascar will face the winner of the Sudan-Algeria match in the semifinals at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.

Meanwhile, Tanzania will compete against Morocco in another quarterfinal on Thursday.

Brøndby IF and Vaasan Palloseura in talks over loan deal for young keeper Wurie Jalloh
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Brøndby IF and Vaasan Palloseura in talks over loan deal for young keeper Wurie Jalloh

On Friday, the Finnish media MTV Urheilu reported that Brøndby’s young goalkeeper Mamadou Jalloh will be loaned to Vaasan Palloseura in the top division in Finland, accordng to 3Point.DK

Mamadou Jalloh has risen through the ranks in Brøndby Masterclass, where he has most recently been a central figure in the U19 team.

The loan agreement with the Finnish club is valid for the rest of the season and with an option for a 12-month extension.

The agreement has not yet been officially confirmed by any party. This move aims to help him gain more experience, building on his impressive performances for the Sierra Leone U20 Cup of Nations team.

Vaasan Palloseura, known as VPS, is a football club from Vaasa, Finland. The team plays in the top league of Finnish football called Veikkausliiga. Jussi Nuorela is the club’s manager. VPS holds its home matches at Hietalahti.

Egyptian winger Frank Aziz pens deal with Portuguese side
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Egyptian winger Frank Aziz pens deal with Portuguese side

Frank Aziz has signed with the U23 team of Estoril Praia after being recognised as a leading talent in the MLS NEXT youth league.

The American-Egyptian winger, whose full name is Frank Fady Victor Nemr Aziz, has joined the Portuguese club on a four-year contract that lasts until June 2029. He will don the number 88 jersey.

Arriving in Portugal from Strikers FC, a club based in Southern California that participates in the MLS NEXT youth league, he honed his skills and attracted the interest of Estoril’s scouts.

Aziz is adept at playing on either wing and is naturally two-footed; he is approximately 1.73m tall and is known for his speed and adaptability in the attacking role.

Frank Aziz expressed his excitement upon joining Estoril Praia, stating, “I am thankful to have signed with a top-level team in Portugal and am ready to give my all.”

Born in Egypt, Aziz lived there until age seven before moving to the U.S., where he developed his talents. He holds dual citizenship, making him eligible for the Egyptian national team in the future.

Attacker Idriss Kanu features in Barnet's first win of the season
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Attacker Idriss Kanu features in Barnet’s first win of the season

Sierra Leone International Idriss Kanu featured as Barnet secured their first win of the season with a 2-0 victory over Swindon Town, thanks to late goals from Dennis Adineran and Emmanuel Osadebe.

Kanu, 25, was playing for the Bees in his fourth game after the team lost all three of their opening matches this season.

The match began with Barnet facing early pressure but goalkeeper Cieran Slicker made crucial saves.

Despite several scoring opportunities from Barnet, including chances from Callum Stead and Ollie Hawkins, they remained scoreless until the second half.

After making impactful substitutions, Osadebe scored to give Barnet the lead, followed by Adineran’s goal just before the match ended, solidifying their win.

Idris Kanu joined The Bees in September 2022 after transferring from Peterborough United. Kanu began his career in the West Ham United academy before moving to Aldershot Town in 2016.

Following one season, Kanu signed with Peterborough United. The forward appeared in 69 matches for The Posh, including games in the Championship. He subsequently had loan spells at Port Vale, Boreham Wood, and Northampton before making a permanent move to The Bees last season.

Kanu has also represented Sierra Leone at the international level in the national team.

Two goals in four games for Sierra Leone's Josh Koroma
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Two goals in four games for Sierra Leone’s Josh Koroma

Sierra Leone International Josh Koroma has recorded two goals in his last four games for London League One side Leyton Orient, helping his side to their second win of the new campaign.

Leyton Orient secured a 1-0 victory against Plymouth Argyle on Tuesday night, making it seven points from their first four League One matches.

Koroma scored the only goal of the game in the second half, marking his 99th league appearance for the O’s. This win also marked Orient’s first success in Plymouth since 2017.

Head Coach Richie Wellens made two changes to the starting lineup, with Michael Craig and Tyreeq Bakinson in the team. After a goalless first half, Orient created more chances in the second period.

Koroma capitalised on a well-placed ball from O’Neill to score in the 63rd minute. Despite some late pressure from Plymouth, Orient held on for the win and will next face Mansfield Town on Saturday.

The former Huddersfield man has been instrumental since his return to Orient, scoring two goals from his last four matches.

Ethiopia's Mesay Teferi names 26 for Egypt and Sierra Leone
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Ethiopia’s Mesay Teferi names 26 for Egypt and Sierra Leone

In readiness for the next World Cup qualifying games against Egypt and Sierra Leone, Ethiopia’s national football team coach, Mesay Teferi, has revealed the call-up of 26 players.

Since Ethiopia has had difficulty holding home games due to poor stadium amenities, the squad will play its home qualifiers in neutral sites like Morocco; therefore, these matches will be vital.

The squad will be aiming to secure valuable points as they face Group A leaders Egypt at the Cairo International Stadium on September 4th, followed by a match against Sierra Leone on September 8th.

Currently, Ethiopia is in fourth place in its group with six points, trailing Sierra Leone by two points.

They drew with Sierra Leone in the qualfiers opener at the Ben M’Hamed El Abdi Stadium, El Jadida but suffered a 2-0 to defeat at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium, Casablanca in March 2025 to Egypt in their fist meeting.

The upcoming matches represent a significant opportunity for Ethiopia to improve their standing in the qualifiers.

Ethiopia's Mesay Teferi names 26-man squad for Egypt and Sierra Leone
Ethiopia's Mesay Teferi names 26-man squad for Egypt and Sierra Leone
Guinea-Bissua named provisional squad for Estádio 24 de Setembro double header
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Guinea-Bissua named provisional squad for Estádio 24 de Setembro double header

Guinea-Bissau has announced five new player allegiance switches for the upcoming CAF World Cup Qualifiers against Sierra Leone and Djibouti, as new head coach Emiliano Té named his provisional squad.

Notable players on the list, Celton Biai, Opa Sanganté, Nanú and Mama Baldé, are back for the crucial matches.

Té, who has been appointed as the new head coach of the Djurtus (the national team of Guinea-Bissau), has included Adramane Cassamá (AC Oulu, Ronaldo Vieira San Jose, Tomás Mendes Alverca In Photo, Midana Cassamá (Dibba), Flávio Silva Kaizer Chiefs, Marculino Ninte CD Mafra and Coba da Costa (Getafe) in preparation for matchdays seven and eight of the qualifiers on the 4th and 8th September, respectively.

The first contest against Sierra Leone will be officiated by a team of referees from the Ivory Coast at the Estadio 24 de Setembro in Bissau.

The Djurtus are looking to avenge the 3-1 defeat suffered at Sierra Leone back in March in the Liberian Capital at the Samuel Kanyon Doe Sports Complex.

Current Standings: Guinea-Bissau is two points adrift of Sierra Leone, currently in third place in their group with 8 points. 

Sierra Leone’s hopes for the USA, Canada, and Mexico 2026 World Cup are still alive, with just 15 days to go in the hunt to increase their point on the table.

Guinea-Bissua named provisional squad for Estádio 24 de Setembro double header
Guinea-Bissua named provisional squad for Estádio 24 de Setembro double header
Guinea-Bissau's new head coach Emiliano Té has named seven new faces in his provisional squad for Sierra Leone and Djibouti
Guinea-Bissau's new head coach Emiliano Té has named seven new faces in his provisional squad for Sierra Leone and Djibouti
East End Lions crowned Sierra Leone league Champions
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

East End Lions crowned Sierra Leone 24/25 League Champions

East End Lions has been crowned champions of the Sierra Leone Premier League for the TENTH time as per records available since 1980 after an exciting 1-1 draw with Stars Sports Academy on Monday.

As a result, they have become the most decorated club in the country’s history for domestic titles. Their last championship win was in 2019 when they finished unbeaten.

The trophy and medals were presented by SLFA President Babadi Kamara at the Approved School Field in Freetown. The Lions secured the title with a total of 69 points before the match.

President Kamara highlighted the season’s sportsmanship, thanked sponsors, and emphasised the government’s supportive role in football.

A cash prize of Le 500,000 was awarded to the champions, promoting accountability and timely rewards in football. East End Lions will represent Sierra Leone in the CAF Champions League, while runners-up Bhantal FC will compete in the CAF Confederation Cup.

Scheduled for September, East End Lions — the representative from Sierra Leone for this year’s CAF Champions League- is to meet the Tunisian team US Monastir in the preliminary round.

They’ll start the preliminary round hosting the first leg during the weekend of September 19-2,1, before they travel to Tunisia for the return leg planned between September 26-28.

The teams that come out on top from this first round will move on to the Second Preliminary Round, set for October 17–19, with the return fixtures scheduled from October 24–26. The stakes are great, and as spectators eagerly wait to see how this chapter develops in the renowned continental contest, excitement grows.

Read Related – East End Lions return to CAF Champions League against US Monastir

Records available of Sierra Leone Premier League Championships (36) since 1980:

13 East End Lions Football Club, Sierra Leone’s most decorated

( 1980, 1985, 1992, 1993, 1994, 2005, 2009, 2010, 2019, 2025)

6 Mighty Blackpool

1988, 1991 [league abandoned, Blackpool awarded title], 1996, 1998, 2000 and 2001

3 Bo Rangers FC

3 Kallon FC (includes Sierra Fisheries)

3 Ports Authority Football Club

3 Real Republicans

2 Diamond Stars (Kono)

2 Old Edwardians

1 Freetown United

East Africa CHAN co-hosts reach quarter-finals
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

East Africa CHAN co-hosts Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda reach quarter-finals

Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda have all reached the quarterfinals for the first time in a CAF competition, thereby enjoying their home advantage and the ambition that comes with it in East Africa.

Excited supporters all over the continent, this accomplishment, cohosts of the 2024 TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN)

With three countries co-hosting the competition for the first time and all three having advanced to the final eight, CHAN this year is historic.

Uganda had never advanced beyond the group stage in prior competitions; Tanzania had tripped twice; Kenya was making its first appearance.

With strong home support, though, they have built fresh legacies together.

First in Group A, Kenya, tournament newcomers, shocked everyone. Their crucial moment came at Kasarani Stadium when Ryan Ogam scored a goal in the 75th minute, resulting in a 10 victory over Zambia.

That victory moved Kenya to 10 points overall, ahead of Morocco, the 2020 champions. Their powerful defence and efficient scoring drew huge crowds, fostering an electrifying environment. In Nairobi for their quarterfinal on Friday, Kenya will play Madagascar—a game projected to be competitive.

Ten points allowed Tanzania to top Group B, winning three of four games. The quarterfinal match against Morocco is planned for Dar es Salaam.

Having struggled in earlier competitions, Uganda made a breakthrough by making the quarterfinals for the first time. After a critical 33 draw against South Africa, they came in first in Group C.

Cohosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, this year’s CHAN is historically unique and has generated great local enthusiasm. All three host countries still have chances in the tournament; therefore, bright quarterfinal games are expected.

Quarter-Final Fixtures

Friday, 22 August 2025

  • 17:00 – Kenya v Madagascar (Moi Sports Centre Kasarani, Nairobi)
  • 20:00 – Tanzania v Morocco (Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, Dar es Salaam)

Saturday, 23 August 2025

  • 17:00 – Winners Group D v Algeria (Amaan Stadium, Zanzibar)
  • 20:00 – Uganda v Runners-up Group D (Mandela National Stadium, Kampala)