Author: Alie Bittar @bittar32

South Africa and Egypt share CHAN qualifier spoils at Free State Stadium
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

South Africa and Egypt share CHAN qualifier spoils at Free State Stadium

Jamie Webber scored a stunning goal to equalize for South Africa against Egypt in the first round of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifier at Free State Stadium on Sunday night.

Egypt took the lead in the 66th minute with a goal from Mohamed Hassan Hashem Abdelaal, stunning the home crowd. However, Webber leveled the match in the 80th minute, beating Egyptian goalkeeper Mahmoud Mohamed Kassem.

Coach Molefi Ntseki expressed satisfaction with the team’s performance despite not securing a win. “A solid structure is essential as it helps players understand their roles and responsibilities,” he noted.

Ntseki acknowledged the challenge ahead, especially with a second leg to play in Egypt. Egypt’s coach Wael Reyad mentioned that many players were absent due to passport issues and recognized the match’s difficulty for his team.

Ntseki’s squad will return to Johannesburg on Monday and remain in camp until they travel to Egypt on March 6, 2025. The winner of this matchup will progress to the next round of the CHAN qualifiers in May 2025.

SKD stadium to host Sierra Leone, Guinea-Bissau World Cup qualifier
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

SKD stadium to host Sierra Leone, Guinea-Bissau World Cup qualifier

Samuel Kanyon Doe Stadium in Monrovia, Liberia, is set to host Sierra Leone and Guinea-Bissau Fifa World Cup matchday five qualifier on March 20th due to the ongoing suspension of Sierra Leone’s home stadium.

The match is crucial to both teams in the race to Canada, Mexico, and the United States. The African Football Confederation (CAF) has designated a quartet of referees from Ghana to officiate this important encounter, which is scheduled to kick off at 16:00 local time.

This match is crucial for both teams seeking to advance in the qualifying rounds. Following this pivotal matchup, Guinea-Bissau will return to host the Burkina Faso national team at home on March 24.

This second fixture represents round six from Group A in the qualification process. Sierra Leone will travel to Cairo to battle leaders Egypt in their match day six of the qualifiers.

Guinea-Bissau is currently in second place in Group A standings, just behind Egypt.
Guinea-Bissau is currently in second place in Group A standings, just behind Egypt.
Kenya set to unveil Benni McCarthy as Harambee Stars coach
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Kenya set to unveil Benni McCarthy as Harambee Stars coach

Benni McCarthy, the renowned South African footballer, is set to be unveiled as the head coach of Kenya’s national team, the Harambee Stars. His appointment is significant for both Kenyan football and the perception of South African coaches across Africa.

McCarthy will be the first South African to coach a non-COSAFA national team, signalling a change in the perception of South African coaches internationally. With a playing background at Ajax, FC Porto, and Manchester United, he is also the only South African to win the UEFA Champions League. His experience at Manchester United heightens expectations for his new role.

Moeneeb Josephs, his former Orlando Pirates teammate, will join him as the goalkeeping coach. The FKF chose McCarthy over other candidates, including Claude Makélélé, during a time when they faced financial and legal challenges.

McCarthy faces high expectations as he takes over a struggling team in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying group. He needs to improve quickly against tough opponents like Gabon and The Gambia later this month.

His long-term goal is to prepare the Harambee Stars for AFCON 2027. If he succeeds, he could change how South African coaches are perceived internationally. Mihlali Baleka remarked, “McCarthy has shown he’s not afraid of challenges and will work hard to succeed,” reflecting hopes for the revival of Kenyan football.

This appointment also inspires future South African coaches. If McCarthy achieves success, it may encourage more local coaches to pursue opportunities abroad, breaking down barriers.

Overall, McCarthy’s role as coach of the Harambee Stars could open doors for more opportunities in African football, and it is vital to recognize the lasting impact of such moments.

England to face Senegal in a friendly at the Forest Ground
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

England to face Senegal in June friendly at the Forest Ground

The England men’s senior team will play two matches later this year to finish their 2025 schedule, which mainly focuses on qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

England will take on one of Africa’s giants, Senegal, at Nottingham Forest’s City Ground on Tuesday, June 10. The match is scheduled to kick off at 7:45 PM BST.

This game is part of England’s preparations for Euro 2024 and provides Senegal with a valuable opportunity to challenge themselves against top-tier competition.

Thomas Tuchel, who wants to lead the team to the World Cup next summer in Canada, Mexico, and the USA, said, “The matches against Senegal and Wales will be good tests for us against two very different teams. Playing a strong African team in a city with a great football tradition and then facing Wales in a derby match at Wembley will help us prepare for the World Cup.”

He added, “Wembley is our home, but it’s also important to bring the team to different places. Playing at a historic stadium like the City Ground is an opportunity we all look forward to.”

Bukayo Saka scored a goal against Senegal during the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. England’s only previous match against Senegal was in the round of 16 of the 2022 World Cup, where they won 3-0 thanks to goals from Jordan Henderson, Harry Kane, and Bukayo Saka.

The City Ground last hosted the England men’s senior team for a competitive match in March 1909, when they won 2-0 against Wales in the Home Championship.

Ex-Senegal head coach Aliou Cissé set for Libya national coaching job
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Ex-Senegal boss Aliou Cissé set for Libya national coaching job

Ex-Senegal head coach Aliou Cissé is set to return to coaching since leaving the Lions of Teranga. He has agreed to take over the Libyan national team, known as the Mediterranean Knights.

A formal declaration is anticipated in the next few days, affirming Cissé’s selection as head coach in readiness for Libya’s efforts in the African qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Cissé will sign a two-year contract with the Libyan Football Federation, with an option for one more year if the team qualifies for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). He is expected to arrive in Libya on March 5 to finalize the agreement.

His main goal will be to help Libya qualify for the 2026 World Cup and the 2027 AFCON. Currently, Libya is in second place in Group D with 7 points, tied with Cape Verde and just one point behind the group leader, Cameroon.

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