Author: Football Sierra Leone

Zambia must win against Morocco to secure AFCON round of 16 qualification
by Football Sierra Leone

Zambia must-win against Morocco to secure AFCON round of 16 qualification

Zambia must go all out to secure a victory against Morocco in their final group match of the Africa Cup of Nations, taking place at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium this coming Monday.

A win is essential for Zambia to enhance their chances of qualifying for the knockout stage. Zambia drew in their last match against Comoros and accumulated only two points from their initial two games.

Morocco was held to a 1-1 draw by Mali, resulting in their failure to secure qualification for the round of 16 ahead of this crucial fixture.

Currently, Morocco leads Group A with four points, placing them two points ahead of second-placed Mali. A draw in this upcoming match would suffice for Morocco to advance to the knockout stage.

In their opening match, the Atlas Lions showcased a strong performance, defeating Comoros 2-0. Despite the draw with Mali impacting their path to the next round, Morocco will be keen to perform well and avoid any further setbacks against Zambia.

While Zambia has struggled offensively, its defensive capabilities remain a notable strength. The Chipolopolo have not secured a victory in the competition since their triumph in 2012 and will be eager to break this streak.

In terms of head-to-head encounters, Morocco has faced Zambia three times in AFCON history, achieving two victories and one draw.

From a team news perspective, Morocco’s manager, Walid Regragui, has confirmed that Achraf Hakimi will be available for selection in this match, although it is uncertain whether he will start.

Unfortunately, the squad may be without Romain Saiss and Hamza Igamane. Conversely, Zambia reports no injury concerns ahead of the match.

Mali's Tom Saintfiet expresses satisfaction after drawing with Morocco
by Football Sierra Leone

Mali’s Tom Saintfiet expresses satisfaction after drawing with Morocco

Belgian coach Tom Saintfiet has expressed his satisfaction following the 1-1 draw between his team, Mali, and the AFCON host nation, Morocco, in their Group A match on Saturday.

The match, which took place in Rabat, was keenly contested and ended in a draw, leaving the qualification for the Round of 16 to be determined on the final matchday.

Coach Tom Saintfiet commented, “We dedicated two to three hours to analysing the Moroccan team. In the beginning, they performed well; however, after some substitutions, we were able to address their transition effectively.

The first 10 minutes of the second half presented us with good opportunities. While Morocco launched strong attacks, we were fortunate to have experienced players who managed those challenges well. I am pleased with my team’s performance, and we will work on building their confidence as we prepare for the next match, where a victory is essential.”

Morocco’s coach Walid Regragui remarked, “We played an intense match and had the opportunity to secure a win. Congratulations to Mali for obtaining a point.

We need to remain resilient; conceding a penalty is a part of the game, and we must not lose hope. Winning the Africa Cup of Nations is a long journey, and while we did not achieve the desired outcome today, we remain confident as we head into the final group match.”

Morocco will face Zambia, and Mali takes on Comoros in the Group A final round of matches, with qualification for the knockout phase still firmly within reach for both teams.

Riyad Mahrez scores twice as Algeria thrash Sudan
by Football Sierra Leone

Riyad Mahrez scores twice as Algeria thrash Sudan

Algeria kicked off their TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 campaign with a confident 3–0 win over 10-man Sudan on Wednesday evening at the Moulay Hassan Stadium in Rabat, marking an impressive start to their Group E fixtures.

The Fennecs, who were champions in 2019, celebrated their first AFCON finals victory since then, thanks to a brace from captain Riyad Mahrez and a late goal from Ibrahim Maza.

They dominated Sudan, taking the lead just two minutes in with Mahrez’s goal from a Hicham Boudaoui assist. Sudan’s Salah El-Din Adel was sent off in the 39th minute, allowing Algeria to maintain control.

In the second half, Mahrez scored again in the 61st minute, assisted by Mohamed Amine Amoura, followed by Maza’s goal in the 85th minute from Baghdad Bounedjah’s setup, securing a 3–0 win for Algeria. Algeria sits atop Group E with three points.

In another match, Burkina Faso staged a dramatic comeback to defeat Equatorial Guinea 2–1, scoring twice in stoppage time. After a balanced first half, Equatorial Guinea went down to ten men with a red card to Basilo Ndung.

Despite conceding in the 85th minute to Marvin Aniebo, Burkina Faso equalised in the fifth minute of added time through György Menongo and won it with Edmond Tapsoba’s goal shortly after, also finishing with three points atop the group.

Last-gasp delight for Burkina Faso skipper Edmond Tapsoba
by Football Sierra Leone

Last-gasp delight for Burkina Faso defender Edmond Tapsoba

Bayer Leverkusen defender Edmond Tapsoba, scored a late header to help Burkina Faso defeat 10-man Equatorial Guinea 2–1 in their opening match of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations at the Mohammed V Stadium in Casablanca on Wednesday.

Burkina Faso made an incredible comeback by scoring two goals deep into stoppage time after Equatorial Guinea scored against the run of play in the 85th minute through Marvin Anieboh, but G. Minoungou (90’+5)Goal 90 minute plus 5, and E. Tapsoba (90’+8) responded to win it in added time.

The match changed in the second half when Equatorial Guinea’s Basilo Ndung received a straight red card in the 50th minute due to a dangerous challenge, leading coach Juan Micha to reorganise his team and adjust their strategy.

Man of the Match – Edmond Tapsoba (Burkina Faso defender), “I’m thrilled with our victory. We came back from behind to win, scoring two goals. This award reflects our team’s effort, and I dedicate it to everyone in the Burkina Faso national team.”

Juan Micha – Head Coach of Equatorial Guinea, “Congrats to Burkina Faso; they were tough opponents. We lost focus, and the match quickly slipped away. Our mental game struggled, especially after the red card, but we aim to improve in future matches.”

Brama Traoré – Head Coach of Burkina Faso, “Starting the tournament with a win was crucial. Facing a strong Equatorial Guinea team was challenging, but we worked hard to equalise and ultimately secure the victory, which we are very pleased with.”

Egypt’s Hossam Hassan hopeful of AFCON 2025 success
by Football Sierra Leone

Egypt’s Hossam Hassan hopeful of AFCON 2025 success

Egyptian football legend Hossam Hassan, now the coach of Egypt’s national team, wants his team to win the CAF TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations 2025 in Morocco.

The former International believes they have what it takes to achieve this, even though they have not won the tournament since 2010.

Egypt is in Group B with Angola, South Africa, and Zimbabwe. Their first match is against Zimbabwe at the Adrar stadium in Agadir, Morocco, on Monday.

In an interview with CAFonline.com, Hossam talked about how he instils a winning spirit in his players. He said, “The Egyptian national team already has a winning mentality. I was lucky to win three AFCON titles as a player in 1998, 2006, and 2008.

We will do everything possible to lift the trophy again this year. It will take hard work from every team member. Egypt has a rich football history, especially in AFCON, where we have won seven titles.”

He shared Egypt’s goals for the tournament: “We always aim to win, which requires a lot from our players. We have top players, and they are motivated for this championship.”

Hossam also expressed respect for their Group B opponents, saying, “All teams in our group are strong and have good players. African football has improved greatly, but we will give our best to win the title and make our fans happy.”

He acknowledged the progress of AFCON: “I thank CAF for their efforts in improving the tournament. African football has developed a lot, and all countries are working to do well in this championship. Egypt has hosted successful editions, and I believe Morocco will organise an excellent tournament.”

Hossam sent a message to Egyptian fans: “Thank you for your continued support. We will do everything we can to lift the trophy. The national team always aims to bring joy to our supporters, and we promise to give our all to make them proud.”

He noted that the close calls in 2017 and 2021 should motivate this generation of players, with Hossam’s guidance, to succeed.

Morocco beat Jordan to lift Second Arab Cup After Extra-Time
by Football Sierra Leone

Morocco beat Jordan to lift Second Arab Cup after extra time

Morocco secured their second Arab Cup title, narrowly defeating Jordan 3-2 after extra time in a final brimming with skill, intensity, and unforgettable moments.

The Atlas Lions started strong. A mere four minutes into the match, Oussama Tannane unleashed a powerful shot from midfield that caught everyone off guard, including the Jordanian goalkeeper, and put Morocco ahead 1-0 by halftime.

This stunning strike had fans on their feet and quickly established Morocco’s control over the game. Jordan rallied in the second half. Olwan found the net in the 48th minute and then converted a penalty 20 minutes later, giving Nashama a 2-1 lead. In response, Morocco’s coach, Sektioui, made three significant substitutions, shifting the game’s momentum.

Hamadallah’s goal in the 87th minute equalised the match, leading to extra time and heightening the tension. Jordan believed they had regained the lead in the 91st minute, but the goal was disallowed, extending the nail-biting suspense.

Finally, in the 100th minute, Hamadallah scored again, delivering the winning goal and securing a historic victory for Morocco.

Both teams poured their hearts into the match, providing an encounter filled with moments that fans will cherish for years.

Morocco has now claimed their Arab Cup in history, marking their first victory since 2012, while Jordan can take pride in an extraordinary tournament that saw them reach the final for the first time.

Mozambique and Angola set for pre-AFCON friendly in Portugal
by Football Sierra Leone

Mozambique and Angola set for pre-AFCON friendly in Portugal

Mozambique and Angola will clash in Portugal on Wednesday for a final warm-up ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

According to a statement from the Mozambique Football Federation, the friendly match will take place behind closed doors in Algarve.

Mozambique’s coach, Chiquinho Conde, expressed his enthusiasm for the game, emphasising the importance of building team cohesion rather than just focusing on a win.

Mozambique is preparing for the AFCON tournament in Morocco, where they will be competing in Group F alongside the Ivory Coast, Cameroon, and Gabon. Conde’s team is set to launch their AFCON campaign against the reigning champions next Wednesday.

Angola’s goalkeeper, Hugo Marques, shared his excitement about facing his former Cape Town City teammate, Edmison Dove, who anchors Mozambique’s defence.

He noted that this match holds significant importance as Angola gears up for AFCON, stating, “Angola wants it more.”

In their AFCON opener, Angola will face formidable opponents, Egypt, on Monday. They are drawn into a challenging group featuring Southern African rivals South Africa, Zimbabwe, and the record winners, Egypt.

Ghana's Albert Adomah makes his 700th EFL appearance
by Football Sierra Leone

Ghana’s Albert Adomah makes his 700th EFL appearance

Albert Adomah played his 700th EFL league match on Saturday during a 1-1 draw with Shrewsbury Town. It was also his 38th birthday. Sadler was glad to see Adomah still working hard and pushing himself for the team.

“Happy birthday to him; he’s the youngest 38-year-old I know,” Head Coach Mat Sadler told the club’s media. “He’s a great person and had a chance to set up Courtney for a goal. Those are the key moments in the game.

We just couldn’t finish at the end, which can happen considering how many games we’ve played lately. Right now, we need to rest and take care of the players for a few days before we prepare for what should be a strong match this Saturday.”

Sadler also shared good news about injuries for Jid Okeke and Aaron Pressley. “Both of them will be back for Saturday’s game,” he confirmed.

“Aaron Pressley trained the last couple of days. We almost put him on the bench, but I thought it was too soon in case something happened. Jid got hurt on his back and foot against Gateshead, but he will be fine for the next game too.”

Mustapha Bundu suffers a collateral ligament injury
by Football Sierra Leone

Mustapha Bundu suffers a collateral ligament injury

Hannover will end the first half of the German Bundesliga 2 without two key players. Mustapha Bundu has a medial collateral ligament injury from the last match against Preußen Münster.

The 28-year-old left the game in the 72nd minute and missed Saturday’s home match against VfL Bochum and the away game against 1. FC Nürnberg on December 21.

This injury ends his first half of the season early. Husseyn Chakroun will also miss the rest of the year.

The 21-year-old had to leave the field in the 25th minute due to a hamstring injury after a long stride following a challenge.

Head coach Christian Titz commented on the injuries, saying, “That’s a real shame, but that happens in football. We have options in the squad, and we have confidence in our players.”

Despite these challenges, he remains hopeful about future matches, stating, “We’ve built the squad so that the players can respond well to any situation.”

Nigeria coach Chelle recalls Uzoho, Onuachu, drops Okoye from AFCON squad
by Football Sierra Leone

Nigeria coach Chelle recalls Uzoho, Onuachu, drops Okoye from AFCON squad

Omonia goalkeeper Francis Uzoho and Trabzonspor striker Paul Onuachu have been recalled to Nigeria's national team, while Maduka Okoye and Tolu Arokodare were excluded from the 28-man squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle unveiled his final squad for the tournament, comprising three goalkeepers, eight defenders, eight midfielders, and nine forwards. The tournament is set to take place from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026, in Morocco. The selection features several new players, bolstering the team’s depth in defence, midfield, and attack.

In defence, Blackburn Rovers’ Ryan Alebiosu receives his first call-up, alongside Slavia Prague’s Igoh Ogbu, who joins the squad as part of the defensive reinforcements.

The midfield sees exciting additions, including Inter Milan’s promising talent and Remo Stars Academy graduate Ebenezer Akinsanmiro, along with Israel-based Usman Muhammed and former Flying Eagles star Tochukwu Nnadi.

Croatia-based striker Lawal Salim Fago is a new addition to the Super Eagles, joining goalkeeper Uzoho, who returns after last playing in March 2024, alongside Stanley Nwabali and Amas Obasogie.

In defence, Calvin Bassey of Fulham teams up with Oluwasemilogo Ajayi, Chidozie Awaziem, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Bruno Onyemaechi, and Zaidu Sanusi.

The midfield features Alex Iwobi, Frank Onyeka, Wilfred Ndidi, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, and Raphael Onyedika. Up front, Victor Osimhen leads the attack with support from Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon, Akor Adams, and Chidera Ejuke, while Cyriel Dessers and Paul Onuachu also make the squad.

Nigeria is in Group C of the AFCON with Tunisia, Tanzania, and Uganda. They will have a pre-tournament camp in Egypt and face Egypt in an unofficial friendly on December 16.

Their campaign kicks off against Tanzania on December 23 in Fès, with a key match against Tunisia set for December 27.

Goalkeepers

  • Stanley Nwabali (Chippa United, South Africa)
  • Amas Obasogie (Singida Black Stars, Tanzania)
  • Francis Uzoho (Omonia, Cyprus)

Defenders

  • Calvin Bassey (Fulham, England)
  • Semi Ajayi (Hull City, England)
  • Bright Osayi-Samuel (Birmingham City, England)
  • Bruno Onyemaechi (Olympiacos, Greece)
  • Chidozie Awaziem (Nantes, France)
  • Zaidu Sanusi (Porto, Portugal)
  • Igoh Ogbu (Slavia Prague, Czech Republic)
  • Ryan Alebiosu (Blackburn Rovers, England)

Midfielders

  • Alex Iwobi (Fulham, England)
  • Frank Onyeka (Brentford, England)
  • Wilfred Ndidi (Besiktas, Turkey)
  • Raphael Onyedika (Club Brugge, Belgium)
  • Tochukwu Nnadi (Zulte Waregem, Belgium)
  • Fisayo Dele-Bashiru (Lazio, Italy)
  • Ebenezer Akinsanmiro (Pisa, Italy)
  • Usman Muhammed (Ironi Tiberias, Israel)

Forwards

  • Chidera Ejuke (Sevilla, Spain)
  • Akor Adams (Sevilla, Spain)
  • Ademola Lookman (Atalanta, Italy)
  • Samuel Chukwueze (Fulham, England)
  • Victor Osimhen (Galatasaray, Turkey)
  • Moses Simon (Paris FC, France)
  • Paul Onuachu (Trabzonspor, Turkey)
  • Cyriel Dessers (Panathinaikos, Greece)
  • Salim Fago Lawal (Istra 1961, Croatia)