Author: Alie Bittar @bittar32

Alhassan Koroma's Al-Shahaniya suffer defeat to Al-Duhail
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Alhassan Koroma’s Al-Shahaniya suffer defeat to Al-Duhail

In an intense match at the Abdullah bin Khalifa Stadium, Al Shahaniya faced a tough defeat against Al-Duhail, finishing with a score of 1-2 after Week 17 of the Ooredoo Stars League.

On Friday, the Sierra Leone International, who scored in their 3-2 win over Umm Salal last Sunday, played the full throttle of the tie in the Qatari Stars Super League.  

Despite a spirited effort, Al-Shahaniya’s performance saw them unable to secure the win, which left their total points stagnant at 23, causing them to slip to seventh place in the league standings.

They now find themselves tied on points with Al-Rayyan and Al-Shamal, who occupy fifth and sixth places, respectively. Meanwhile, Al-Duhail’s victory allowed them to regain the top position in the league, boosting their points to 38.

The first half of the match was particularly noteworthy, as Al-Shahaniya successfully held Al-Duhail—currently leading the standings—scoreless through 45 minutes. However, the tide turned just after the break when Michael Olunga netted Al-Duhail’s first goal in the 46th minute, placing pressure on Al-Shahaniya to respond.

The home team equalized in the 65th minute with a penalty conversion from Petrus Amersfoort, showcasing their resilience and determination.

Unfortunately for Al-Shahaniya, just five minutes later, Karim Boudiaf scored again for Al-Duhail, reclaiming the lead with a well-timed goal in the 70th minute. The match turned contentious as tensions rose, culminating in the ejection of substitute referee Francesco Antonucci in the 90+9 minute.

Al-Shahaniya’s starting formation for the match featured Shahab Al-Laithi in goal, supported by a defensive line consisting of Mohamed Ibrahim, Mohamed Badr Sayyar, Mark Martinez, and Lotfi Madjer.

In the midfield, they lined up Petrus Amersfoort alongside Youssef Hani and Andreas van Beek, while their attacking front comprised Moaz Al-Wadiya, Ali Al-Omari, and Al-Hassan Koroma. Despite their efforts, the team’s inability to convert opportunities into goals ultimately led to their defeat on this occasion.

Ex-Nigerian Midfielder Obi Mikel blasts Jamie Carragher over AFCON comments
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Ex-Nigerian Midfielder Obi Mikel blasts Jamie Carragher over AFCON remarks

Former Chelsea and Nigeria midfielder John Obi-Mikel offered a strong perspective in response to Jamie Carragher’s recent comments about the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), where Carragher suggested that the tournament lacks the same weight as the European Championship or the FIFA World Cup.

During a discussion about English football, Carragher mentioned that Mohamed Salah’s chances of winning the Ballon d’Or could be impacted by the perception of AFCON.

In a thoughtful reply on the Obi One Podcast, Mikel emphasized the significance of the AFCON, stating, “The Africa Cup of Nations is just as important as the Euros; I’ve participated in it and even won it.” He expressed his belief that everyone should appreciate the value of the tournament.

Mikel pointed out that while Carragher provides insights on winning in the Premier League, he has not personally experienced that triumph himself. He remarked, “It’s essential to recognize the prestige of AFCON, and it’s important to respect the achievements of players in that competition.”

His comments encourage a broader understanding of global football competitions and highlight the accomplishments of players representing their countries on the international stage.

Listen to more of Mikel Obi’s reaction via the Obi One Podcast!

DRC International Yoane Wissa nets in Brentford draw with Everton
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

DRC International Yoane Wissa nets in Brentford draw with Everton

DRC international Yoane Wissa was on target as Everton managed to come back to secure a 1-1 draw against Brentford, stretching their unbeaten streak in the Premier League to seven games.

Yoane Wissa scored his 13th goal of the season, giving the home team the lead just before halftime, but David Moyes’ squad equalized with a header from Jake O’Brien in West London.

The Toffees gradually found their footing after Brentford’s quick start, although they squandered two prime scoring opportunities in the first half, with Beto being particularly unproductive on both chances.

The in-form striker could not get past Mark Flekken when he had a one-on-one opportunity in the 39th minute, and shortly after, Flekken came off his line to thwart him again.

Those missed chances cost Everton dearly as Brentford took the lead deep into stoppage time, where Kevin Schade’s long throw was headed onto the crossbar by Bryan Mbeumo before Wissa tapped in the rebound from close range.

Flekken did well to deny Jack Harrison’s corner, which nearly snuck in at his near post soon after the second half began, and Carlos Alcaraz later shot just wide from the edge of the box.

Wissa had another goal disallowed for offside before the visitors eventually broke through the Bees’ defence, with O’Brien heading Vitalii Mykolenko’s cross low past Flekken with 13 minutes left.

Following this match, Brentford stayed in 11th place in the Premier League rankings. Brentford has not secured a victory in a home game for six matches, despite starting the season unbeaten in eight games at home.

Mohamed Kallon unveiled as Sierra Leone head coach
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Mohamed Kallon unveiled as Sierra Leone head coach

  • A kiss for the Sierra Leone jersey he once donned as captain following his unveiling ceremony.
  • His first task as head coach will be against the Djurtus of Guinea-Bissau Next Month
  • The former Inter Milan and Monaco striker Mohamed Kallon is ready to lead the Leone Stars from the sidelines.

Mohamed Kallon, a Uefa Pro Licence holder, is the new head coach of the Sierra Leone men’s national team and will begin his new role with a home match against Guinea-Bissau, followed by a challenging encounter against the African powerhouse, Egypt.

Kallon has officially embraced the prestigious role of head coach for the Sierra Leone national team, heralding the dawn of a new and exciting chapter in the nation’s football history. He will commence his duties as the senior men’s coach in March, focusing on the crucial preparations for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

In a heartfelt statement following the announcement, Kallon conveyed a profound sense of duty and patriotism. “I accept this job because it is for my country. It was not an easy decision; there were many factors to consider. However, here we are. I am honoured to serve Sierra Leone. My love for my country drives me to take on this important responsibility,” Kallon expressed with conviction.

Kallon’s appointment is a key component of the ‘Concept 2027’ initiative—a visionary, long-term strategy designed to assess and elevate football standards in Sierra Leone. This initiative aims to nurture budding talent while striving to forge a competitive national team capable of making a significant impact on the international stage.

The decision has been met with overwhelming enthusiasm from the football community, government officials, and passionate fans, all of whom are rallying behind Kallon as he embarks on the challenging journey to lead the national team toward success. Additional details regarding his technical staff and forthcoming plans are anticipated to be unveiled shortly, as shared by the media department of the Football Association.

With an abundance of passion, rich experience, and an unwavering commitment to enhancing Sierra Leonean football, Mohamed Kallon stands ready to guide his country to new heights, much like he did during his illustrious playing career.

Mohamed Kallon has been appointed as the head coach of the Sierra Leone national team
Mohamed Kallon has been appointed as the head coach of the Sierra Leone national team
Mauritania FA launch FIFA Talent Academy in Nouakchott
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Mauritania FA launches FIFA Talent Academy in Nouakchott

On February 25th, a momentous event in the realm of football development unfold in Mauritania with the inauguration of the FIFA Talent Academy. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Nouakchott, this landmark occasion will not only commemorate the strides made by the country under the FIFA Talent Development Scheme (TDS) but also establish Mauritania as a trailblazer in the Confederation of African Football (CAF) region.

This academy aims to nurture young talent and enhance the nation’s footballing prowess, signaling a bright future for the sport in the country.

The TDS, initiated in 2022 by Arsène Wenger, aims to help member associations fulfill their potential by identifying and developing talented players, addressing competitive imbalances in global football. The main goal is to raise national team standards for both men and women and to create a sustainable legacy for talent development. So far, 200 FIFA Member Associations have benefited from this innovative initiative.

FIFA will allocate a funding of USD 200 million to support participating associations for the 2023-2026 operational cycle. The Academies Programme is a key component of TDS, and Mauritania will officially recognize its first talent academy. Each academy employs FIFA-trained coaches to create high-quality training environments for developing the nation’s most talented players.

The initiative focuses on identifying talent, training players effectively, and providing opportunities to apply their skills in matches. Each academy also prioritizes safeguarding and education, ensuring a safe and holistic environment for all players. FIFA aims to establish 75 elite Talent Academies by 2027, with 24 already in place globally.

The objectives of the Mauritania Talent Academy mirror those of all FIFA-recognized academies: to develop top players, be a role model for the Federation, create a sustainable football ecosystem, and foster social growth.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino emphasized the significance of this launch for Mauritania, a country dedicated to football development. FFRIM President Ahmed Yahya noted that this academy reflects FIFA’s confidence in their commitment and marks a crucial step toward a brighter future for Mauritanian football.

FIFA’s Chief of Global Football Development, Arsene Wenger, highlighted the goal of providing young players with exceptional training and development to help them realize their potential in serving the country’s football growth.

Oumar Ndiaye, Director of the FFRIM Academy, said that this FIFA certification is a pivotal moment for Mauritanian youth, facilitating the enhancement of training programs. Thanks to FIFA’s support, they now have the tools to elevate their ambitions.

FFRIM President Ahmed Yahya expressed his satisfaction with the initiative designed to identify talent.
FFRIM President Ahmed Yahya expressed his satisfaction with the initiative designed to identify talent.
The Fifa talent Academy initiative aimed at identifying talent across Mauritania
The Fifa talent Academy initiative aimed at identifying talent across Mauritania
Senegal's Ismaila Sarr's double helps Crystal Palace thrash Aston Villa
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Senegal’s Ismaila Sarr’s double helps Crystal Palace thrash Aston Villa

Senegal’s Ismaila Sarr netted two goals to help a sharp Crystal Palace overcome Aston Villa 4-1 at Selhurst Park, continuing their march toward the upper half of the Premier League standings.

Manager Oliver Glasner had expressed worries about the Eagles’ performance at home. Prior to Tuesday night’s fixture, they had secured only two league victories on their own ground.

It seemed that trend would persist when Jacob Ramsey found the back of the net with a tidy finish, but the goal was disallowed for offside.

In the 29th minute, Palace forward Ismaila Sarr opened the scoring when Chris Richards’ header was deflected by Emi Martinez, allowing Sarr to tap the ball in from close range.

Villa improved after conceding and believed they had equalized just before halftime when Morgan Rogers partnered with Ollie Watkins and scored from within the penalty area, only for the goal to be overturned by the video assistant referee (VAR).

Rogers did manage to score early in the second half after again combining with Watkins, bringing Villa level, but Jean-Philippe Mateta then put Palace back in front with a superb curled shot past substitute goalkeeper Robin Olsen, who stepped in after Martinez did not reappear for the second half.

Sarr secured his second goal of the match when Daniel Munoz made a low cross into the box, which the Senegal striker directed into the far corner, and late on, substitute Eddie Nketiah added a fourth for Palace.

This result places Glasner’s team in 12th place, after suffering just three losses in their last 15 league matches.

Striker Victor Osimhen doubtful for Nigeria World Cup qualifiers
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Striker Victor Osimhen doubtful for Nigeria World Cup qualifiers

Nigerian soccer star Victor Osimhen has injured himself before next month’s qualifying matches for the 2026 FIFA World Cup next month.

The Super Eagles will play against Rwanda’s Wasps away and Zimbabwe’s Warriors at home, with Eric Chelle as the new head coach.

Osimhen, Nigeria’s top striker, was taken off the field in the 89th minute of Galatasaray’s goalless draw with Fenerbahce on Monday night.

Galatasaray’s team doctor, Yener İnce, confirmed that the substitution was due to an injury.

“We will see; it will be clear tomorrow,” the doctor said on habersarikirmizi.com.

Osimhen, 26, is now the joint second-highest goalscorer for the Super Eagles, with 23 goals in 39 games. Only Rashidi Yekini has scored more for Nigeria, with 37 goals in 62 matches.

Benin cruise past Sierra Leone to progress to next stage of WAFCON qualifiers
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Benin cruise past Sierra Leone in first round WAFCON qualifiers

On Monday, Sierra Leone faced a 3-1 defeat in the Women’s AFCON qualifier second leg against Benin at the Samuel Kanyon Doe Sports Complex, resulting in their elimination from the Africa Women’s Cup of Nations 2026 qualifiers. (Photo SLFA)

This loss followed a 2-1 defeat in the first leg at Kégué Stadium last Thursday, Sierra Leone was eliminated with an aggregate score of 5-2. This result means Benin will face Nigeria’s Super Falcons in the second round.

The visitors first scored in the 38th minute through Marguerite Ahouassou, and Germaine Honfo doubled their lead in the 44th minute. Aude Gbedjissi added a penalty goal, sealing their victory. Although the host team managed to reduce the deficit to 3-1, it was too late for a comeback.

In the first match, Benin’s captain Aude Gbedjissi scored a brace, with her first goal coming in the 23rd minute after receiving a solid pass from the left. She skilfully manoeuvred past the Sierra Leone goalkeeper to open the scoring. Benin started brightly and could have scored more in the first 15 minutes, but they missed several chances.

The Sierra Queens equalized in the 35th minute when Kadiatu Kamara capitalized on a corner play, striking the ball long over the Benin goalkeeper.

However, the home side quickly responded and regained their one-goal lead after being awarded a penalty in the 44th minute. The Benin captain converted the penalty for her second goal, ending the first half with a 2-1 advantage for her team.

After the recess, both teams struggled to take control of the tie with scrappy football, as there were no goals in the second forty minutes.

The final phase of the competition is divided into three groups, each consisting of four teams. The top two teams from each group will directly qualify for the quarter-finals, along with the two best third-placed teams.

From this stage onward, the competition follows a knockout format leading up to the final, where the winner will be crowned.

The 2026 Africa Women’s Cup of Nations is the 16th edition of this tournament, bringing together the best women’s football teams in Africa.

Read Related – Benin beat Sierra Leone in first-leg WAFCON qualifiers.

Second Round

● M33 & M34: Angola – Zimbabwe vs. Malawi 

● M35 & M36: Botswana – DR Congo vs. South Africa

● M37 & M38: Tanzania – Equatorial Guinea vs. Uganda – Ethiopia

● M39 & M40: Eswatini – Namibia vs. Zambia

● M41 & M42: Burundi – Burkina Faso vs. Djibouti – Togo

● M43 & M44: South Sudan – Algeria vs. Cameroon

● M45 & M46: Rwanda – Egypt vs. Ghana

● M47 & M48: Kenya – Tunisia vs. Niger – Gambia

● M49 & M50: Benin – Sierra Leone vs. Nigeria

● M51 & M52: Guinea – Cape Verde vs. Gabon – Mali

● M53 & M54: Chad – Senegal vs. Ivory Coast

Emmanuel Latte Lath nets brace on his MLS debut for Atlanta
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Ivorian Emmanuel Lath nets brace on his MLS debut for Atlanta

Emmanuel Latte Lath had an impressive debut for Atlanta United, scoring two goals in one game. Broadcaster Mike Conti celebrated with, “It’s a double latte!” after his second goal. (Photo Atlanta United)

Latte Lath made history by being the first player to score two goals in a debut for the club on February 22. His goals came in the 41st and 63rd minutes.

Coach Ronny Deila praised his speed and skill, noting, “He’s quick, has great direction, and can finish with both feet.”

Before the match, there were questions about whether he would play the whole game, having just joined the team from Middlesbrough FC.

Latte Lath was substituted in the 90th minute, fulfilling his goal to score in his first match. “I’m really, really happy,” he said.

His first goal came from a corner by Saba Lobjanidze, which he headed in. He described it simply: “I jump.”

His second goal came in the second half when he scored in a scramble after a deflection from Montreal’s goalkeeper. Deila remarked, “When he’s focused, he can threaten any defense.”

Latte Lath signed on February 4 and made his debut just over two weeks later, rounding out a busy offseason for the team.

Starting the season at home with new players was a great way to begin 2025, drawing a large crowd. All three designated players, including Latte Lath, contributed significantly in Deila’s first match. “Their hard work and teamwork helped us immensely,” he said.

Morocco's Achraf Hakimi Scores Twice to Help PSG Beat Lyon
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi Scores Twice to Help PSG Beat Lyon

Achraf Hakimi scored two goals on Sunday night, leading Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) to a 3-2 win against Olympique Lyon in Ligue 1.

The Moroccan International now has four goals and five assists in 18 appearances for Ligue 1. Hakimi, named Man of the Match, played very well in this important game. After a scoreless first half, PSG took the lead in the 53rd minute.

Bradley Barcola set up Hakimi, who shot into the bottom left corner of the goal, past Lyon’s keeper Lucas Perri. Seven minutes later, Ousmane Dembélé increased the lead with a great solo goal, weaving past defenders and striking the ball into the left side of the net.

Lyon fought back in the 83rd minute when Rayan Cherki scored after getting a pass from Georges Mikautadze. However, Hakimi scored again just two minutes later, thanks to a well-placed assist from Kang-In Lee.

Lyon continued to push for more goals. In stoppage time, Corentin Tolisso scored with a powerful header from an Ainsley Maitland-Niles cross. Despite this, PSG held on to win the match.