Author: Alie Bittar @bittar32

Ilies Belmokhtar nets brace in U17 AFCON opening win over Uganda
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Ilies Belmokhtar nets brace in U17 AFCON opening win over Uganda

Ilies Belmokhtar from Morocco made a standout debut with two goals at the TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations with a stunning performance in his team’s 5-0 victory over Uganda.

The AS Monaco forward, turning 17 in May, showcased his talent and emerging leadership within a promising Moroccan squad. “The most important thing is the three points. I wouldn’t be here without the win,” he stated after receiving his award.

Known for his skillful use of both feet and sharp decision-making, Belmokhtar helped lead Morocco’s aggressive play that left Uganda struggling to keep up. “We saw that our opponents weren’t pressing us, so we played our game and applied what we’ve worked on in training,” he noted.

Morocco’s U-17 team represents a new era in North African youth football, blending tactical discipline with flair. As they face tougher challenges ahead, Belmokhtar’s composure and scoring ability will be crucial. If Sunday’s performance is any indication, he is ready for the spotlight.

https://twitter.com/bittar32/status/1906613694072500407

Sierra Leone's Juma Bah out of Lens League tie against Lille due to injury
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Sierra Leone’s Juma Bah out of Lens derby tie against Lille due to injury

Lens’ Juma Bah suffered a serious injury during training on Saturday morning when he collided head-to-head with teammate Jonathan Gradit, Lequipe reports.

As a result, Bah lost two teeth and spent the afternoon in the hospital for further examination. He will miss the Lille derby this Sunday at 8:45 p.m. and will not return to action until Tuesday, by concussion protocol.

Bah sat in shock for several minutes following the collision and will likely be replaced by Malang Sarr at kickoff. Meanwhile, Gradit has also sustained an injury, requiring stitches for a cut on his eyebrow. His fitness is currently uncertain, and a medical examination will assess the condition of his swollen eye on Sunday morning after he wakes up.

With both players’ statuses in question, Lens is expected to play in a 5-3-2 formation if Gradit is fit. If he cannot play, coach Will Still may need to switch to a 4-5-1 formation.

Two teams competing for European football next season face off in Ligue 1 this weekend as Lille hosts Lens in the Derby du Nord on Sunday evening.

Kenyan Patrick Matasi suspended following match-fixing investigation
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Kenyan Patrick Matasi suspended following match-fixing investigation

Kenya goalkeeper Patrick Matasi has been temporarily barred from football and related activities in the country for 90 days while an inquiry is conducted regarding match-fixing claims.

On Thursday evening, the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) reached this decision just hours after announcing that it had started an investigation involving the 37-year-old player.

The situation emerged after an online video surfaced, seemingly showing the goalkeeper consenting to a scheme to manipulate the results of a match.

In a statement sent by FKF on Thursday, the country’s top federation said the decision to suspend Matasi was made by Section VII (2) of the FKF Anti-Match Manipulation Regulations (2016), and has been formally communicated to his club, Kakamega Homeboyz FC and the player.

“The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) has provisionally suspended goalkeeper Patrick Matasi from all FKF-sanctioned events and competitions for 90 days, following concerns raised by circulating videos suggesting possible match manipulation,” FKF said in a Statement.

“FKF, in collaboration with FIFA, CAF, and other relevant authorities, has initiated an official investigation into the matter. The Federation remains committed to upholding integrity in football and ensuring a fair and transparent process for all involved parties. Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.”

Egypt is set to host U20 Cup of Nations in 2025, beginning on April 27th
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Egypt set to host U20 Africa Cup of Nations

The Confédération of African Football (CAF) has awarded the rights to host the TotalEnergies CAF Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations 2025 to the Egyptian Football Association (EFA) and the Egyptian Government.

This decision follows a notification from the Fédération Ivoirienne de Football (FIF) and the Government of Côte d’Ivoire, stating that they are unable to host the tournament due to unforeseen circumstances.

The Egyptian Football Association and the Egyptian Government had previously submitted a bid to host the TotalEnergies CAF Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations 2025.

The opening match is scheduled for Sunday, April 27, 2025, with the final set to take place on May 18, 2025.

Sierra Leone is placed in a group with Senegal, Zambia, and Kenya for the forthcoming youth football tournament. The leading four countries will qualify for the 2025 FIFA Under-20 World Cup, which is set to take place in Chile from September 27 to October 19, 2025.

Cayden Cole speaks about Sierra Leone U20 experience
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Cayden Cole speaks about Sierra Leone U20 experience

Hull City Academy defender Cayden Cole reported his experience with the Sierra Leone Under-20 after the friendly international match against Morocco in March.

Both nations used this match as part of their preparation for the upcoming African Cup Of Nations in Ivory Coast.

Cole, who plays for Hull City at the U18 level, expressed his satisfaction with playing 70 minutes of Sierra Leone U20’s 2-0 loss to Morocco in the Mohammed VI Sports Complex in Rabat last Saturday.

“I’ve loved every moment, getting to know the other players and the staff, and just playing overall. The team has come together nicely despite our diverse backgrounds, and I’m looking forward to seeing what the future holds for this U20 squad,” he said.

Cole, 16, a left-sided full-back and centre-back, continued: “I feel privileged to have received a call-up to represent my country and connect with my heritage, and I hope to be involved going forward.”

“I’ve enjoyed it because it offers a different perspective on football; European football significantly differs from African football due to the greater drive and determination among players aspiring to succeed here compared to their European counterparts.”

Regarding the trip, he mentioned, “This experience has given me insight into the reality of men’s football in terms of physicality, speed, and tenacity. I believe I’ve managed to keep pace with the older players, and I was chosen to be in the starting lineup against Morocco the other day.”

Trophy Unveiling! A fresh design for CAF Under-17 Cup of Nations
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Trophy Unveiling! A fresh design for CAF Under-17 Cup of Nations

A new trophy and logo for the CAF Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations, Morocco 2025, have been unveiled. The trophy reflects the journey of young footballers, with an African map featuring and presenting the spirit of continental unity and pride.

The tournament will be played in four stadiums across three cities- Casablanca, Mohammedia, and El Jadida- from March 30 to April 19, 2025.

The new logo and creative trophy reveal is an important step in celebrating the journey of young African footballers participating in this elite competition.

The concept behind the trophy, titled “Journey Begins,” embodies ambition, growth, and the initial steps toward these players’ legendary futures. It features a road-like structure that symbolizes the players’ paths and is integrated with the map of Africa to emphasize unity and pride across the continent.

The logo design reflects the new TotalEnergies CAF U-17 AFCON trophy, including its base. This foundation represents the structure, guidance, and support provided by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), highlighting its pivotal role in nurturing Africa’s next generation of stars.

This tournament is distinguished by its fresh look and invigorated energy. Additionally, the TotalEnergies CAF U-17 AFCON, Morocco 2025, will serve as a qualifier for the FIFA World Cup, with Africa being represented by 10 teams at the newly expanded tournament scheduled to take place in Qatar later this year.

Trophy Unveiling! A fresh design for CAF Under-17 Cup of Nations
Trophy Unveiling! A fresh design for CAF Under-17 Cup of Nations
Ivory Coast announce last-minute pull-out as host of U20 AFCON
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Ivory Coast announce last-minute pull-out as host of U20 AFCON

With only one month remaining before the kickoff of the 2025 U20 Africa Cup of Nations, Ivory Coast has officially withdrawn as the host nation for the tournament.

Sierra Leone is placed in a group with Senegal, Zambia, and Kenya for the forthcoming youth football tournament. The leading four countries will qualify for the 2025 FIFA Under-20 World Cup, which is set to take place in Chile from September 27 to October 19, 2025.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) had announced Ivory Coast as the host country in 2024. However, on Wednesday, the Ivorian government instructed the country’s football federation to give up its hosting duties.

In a shocking development, Yacine Idriss Diallo, who is the President of both the Ivorian Football Federation (FIF) and the organizing committee for the U20 Africa Cup of Nations (COCAN U20), conveyed the decision made by the government: “Through this letter, I notify you that the Government has formally communicated to the Ivorian Football Federation that Côte d’Ivoire will no longer host the U20 Africa Cup of Nations.”

“Upon the directive of the FIF President, the Executive Director relayed this information to the CAF Secretary General on Tuesday, March 25, 2025.”

The President conveyed his heartfelt appreciation to everyone who contributed to the organization of the tournament and promised that any updates concerning CAF’s response would be shared in a timely manner.

CAF will now need to identify a different host before the tournament commences.

Four African teams will receive USD 9.55 million for the FIFA Club World Cup
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

USD 9.55m FIFA Club World Cup cash boost for each African teams

FIFA has announced a USD 9.55 million participation fee for each of the four African teams in the first FIFA Club World Cup, set for June 14 to July 13, 2025, in the United States.

The teams—Al Ahly (Egypt), Esperance (Tunisia), Mamelodi Sundowns (South Africa), and Wydad Athletic Club (Morocco)—will earn the same as clubs from AFC and CONCACAF as part of the total USD 1 billion prize money for this 32-team tournament.

FIFA has approved the prize money distribution model after talks with key stakeholders, including the European Club Association.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino stated that this tournament offers the highest-ever prize money for club football, with a significant payout for the winners. He also mentioned a solidarity investment program aimed at supporting club football worldwide.

FIFA will not keep any revenue from this tournament, ensuring all funds go to support club football and not touching its reserves for global football development.

Egypt edge Sierra Leone in close contest in Cairo
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Egypt edge Sierra Leone in close Cairo contest

Egypt emerged victorious against Sierra Leone with a score of 1-0 in Cairo. The winning goal was scored by Ahmed Sayed, better known as Zizo, during stoppage time in the first half at the Cairo Stadium. This win strengthened Egypt’s position in World Cup qualifiers Group A.

Consequently, they have opened a five-point gap at the top of Group A in the race to qualify for the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

Egypt, the leaders of Group A, controlled the first half, but Sierra Leone held strong under pressure for a full 45 minutes during their match on Tuesday, which was part of matchday six of the World Cup qualifiers.

Omar Mamoush and Mohamed Salah had slim opportunities in the first 30 minutes, but the Sierra Leone defense and goalkeeper Alhaji Sesay kept them at bay, sticking to their tactical approach.

MLS veteran Kei Kamara also had a half chance in the 40th minute when a long cross from Emmanuel Samadia was diverted by a defender just before he could reach it.

Marmoush had a shot that missed the target before Zamalek’s Ahmed Sayed, known as Zizo, found the net during first-half stoppage time, scoring at the near post after receiving a brilliant through ball from Trezeguet.

Following the break, Egypt nearly doubled their advantage when Attia struck a powerful shot that hit the post. Soon after, Sierra Leone had a chance when Nathaniel Jalloh mishandled his shot inside the box, but substitute striker Alie Conteh managed to intercept a deflected ball and sent another powerful shot just wide of the post.

Sierra Leone made a strong effort to equalize, as both teams played actively throughout the match. However, no goals were scored in the second half, although Sierra Leone showed significant improvement during this period.

Currently, Sierra Leone is in third place in the group, with eight points after playing six matches.

90+3 Substitution: Egypt’s Mahmoud Saber replaced Omar Marmoush.

90+3 Substitution, Egypt: Mostafa Fathi replaced Trézéguet.

88′ Substitution, Sierra Leone. Momoh Dumbuya replaced Nathaniel Jalloh.

84′ Substitution, Sierra Leone. Mohamed Bangura replaced Abu Dumbuya.

74′ Substitution, Egypt. Mohamed Shehata replaces Zizo.

74′ Substitution, Sierra Leone. Musa Kamara replaced Kei Kamara.

58 a substitution, Egypt. Hamdi Fathy replaced Mostafa Mohamed.

Substitution

46′ Substitution, Sierra Leone. Alie Conteh replaced Momoh Kamara.

Sierra Leone Coach Kallon Makes Three Changes For Egypt crucial Tie
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Sierra Leone Coach Kallon Makes Three Changes For Egypt crucial Tie

Sierra Leone’s coach, Mohamed Kallon, implemented three changes for the sixth matchday of the World Cup qualifier against Egypt, introducing MLS icon Kei Kamara, Momoh Kamara, and Emmanuel Samadia, who plays in the USA, into the starting eleven.  

This new trio took the places of injured player Mustapha Bundu, Mohamed Bangura, who made his debut in the victory over Guinea Bissau, and Musa Noah Kamara, who scored the second goal for the Leone Stars against Guinea Bissau.  

Coach Kallon, making his second appearance in charge for Sierra Leone at the Cairo International Stadium, retained the same defensive line along with Tyrese Foirnah and Abu Dumbiuya in their defensive positions.Sierra Leone coach makes three changes for Egypt contest.

Like their hosts, the Leone Stars enter this match after a solid 3-1 win over Guinea-Bissau, marking a strong debut for head coach Mohamed Kallon. Sierra Leone has achieved two wins in three matches, with captain Mustapha Bundu scoring first and Ibrahim Turray sealing the victory in stoppage time.

They currently sit third in the table with eight points, just five behind leaders Egypt. Egypt extended their lead at the top of Group A to 13 points after a 2-0 victory over Ethiopia, nearing their first World Cup appearance since 2018.

Sierra Leone Coach Kallon Makes Three Changes For Egypt crucial Tie
Sierra Leone Coach Kallon Makes Three Changes For Egypt crucial Tie