Author: Football Sierra Leone

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)
CAF unveils new 2025 Africa Cup of Nations Mascot 'Assad'
by Football Sierra Leone

CAF unveils new 2025 Africa Cup of Nations Mascot ‘Assad’

Excitement is building for Africa’s largest event, the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Morocco 2025. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) and the Local Organising Committee (LOC) have introduced the official mascot, 'ASSAD' (ⵉⵣⵎ in Amazigh).

Assad, inspired by the Atlas lion, symbolises strength, pride, and cultural authenticity. He will connect with fans of all ages, especially children and families.

Assad will engage fans at stadiums, fan zones, and community events, supporting marketing campaigns and enhancing digital content. His friendly design and vibrant colours match the tournament brand.

Beyond 2025, Assad will represent the future of African football by participating in grassroots programs and youth initiatives to inspire the next generation.

With Assad at the forefront, the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON Morocco 2025 aims to create an unforgettable experience that celebrates unity and the spirit of African football.

Angola list 28-man troops for AFCON 2025 in Morocco this month
by Football Sierra Leone

Angola list final 28-man troops for AFCON 2025 in Morocco

Angola's head coach, Patrice Beaumelle, has unveiled his final 28-man squad for the 2025 TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations, setting the stage for the Palancas Negras to aim for their best-ever performance in the tournament's history.

After weeks of speculation, Beaumelle’s squad announcement has captured attention, particularly due to several high-profile absentees as Angola gears up for a tough Group B campaign, facing South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Egypt.

A Challenging Path Awaits in Group B

Angola will begin their AFCON journey against South Africa on December 21, followed by matches against Zimbabwe on December 26 and Egypt on December 29. With the energy from their quarter-final run in 2023 and Beaumelle’s rejuvenated squad, the Palancas Negras head to Morocco with a sense of measured confidence and a clear ambition to carve out a new chapter in their footballing history.

Historically, Angola has yet to win the tournament, with their best performances being quarter-final appearances in 2008, 2010, and the recent edition in Côte d’Ivoire.

Angola’s AFCON Group Matches

22 December: vs South Africa

26 December: vs Zimbabwe

29 December: vs Egypt

Angola’s final 28-man squad for AFCON 2025

Goalkeepers: Neblú, Hugo Marques, Dominique

Defenders: Rui Modesto, Eddie Afonso, Tô Carneiro, Núrio Fortuna, Pedro Bondo, David Carmo, Buatu, Gaspar, Clinton Mata

Midfielders: Beni Mukendi, Show, Fredy, Maestro, Kelliano, Mário Balbúrdia

Forwards: Zito Luvumbo, Manuel Benson, Milson, Chico Banza, Gelson Dala, Randy Nteka, Ary Papel, Mabululu, Mbala Nzola, Zine

AL-Hilal slip in CAF Champions League after draw with St Éloi Lupopo
by Football Sierra Leone

Al-Hilal slip in CAF Champions League after draw with St Éloi Lupopo

Congolese side St Éloi Lupopo came from behind late in the match to draw 1–1 against Al-Hilal Omdurman in Lubumbashi on Sunday, a result that keeps Group C tightly contested after two matchdays of the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League.

The Sudanese champions took the lead early, scoring on 12 minutes when Abdelraziq Omer found the net from close range, capitalising on Al-Hilal’s quick start.

Lupopo struggled to respond, and their mounting frustration was evident when captain Issama Mpeko was shown a yellow card before halftime. Changes made by St Éloi Lupopo at the break brought urgency and better control for the Congolese side.

As Al-Hilal found themselves increasingly pinned back, Petrus Aprocious received a yellow card due to the growing pressure. Lupopo finally equalised in the 79th minute when Ramos Kashala slotted in after the ball deflected nicely in the box.

Although Al-Hilal still posed a threat on counterattacks late in the game, two players from the visiting side received yellow cards as the Sudanese side fought hard to secure a point. Lupopo substitute Mika Miche also saw a booking in stoppage time as tensions rose, yet neither team managed to score again.

This draw came after MC Alger and Mamelodi Sundowns played to a scoreless draw in Algiers on Friday. Sundowns currently top Group C on goal difference with four points, tied with Al-Hilal. MC Alger is in third place with two points, while Lupopo sits in fourth with one point after two matches.

Both teams will return to continental action in January, with Lupopo looking to convert their improved second-half performance into their first group victory, while Al-Hilal aims to maintain their unbeaten record.

Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania to co-host Africa Nations Championship
by Football Sierra Leone

CAF named 2025 Cup of Nations Match Officials

The Confédération of African Football (CAF) has revealed the lineup of Match Officials who will oversee the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Morocco 2025, scheduled to take place from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026.

This edition of Africa’s premier football tournament features a total of 73 seasoned officials, including 28 referees, 31 assistant referees, and 14 VAR officials.

The chosen officials represent all corners of the continent and include some of the most experienced referees who have officiated in several key CAF competitions in recent years.

All appointed match officials are expected to arrive in Morocco on December 15, 2025, for an intensive preparatory course leading up to the tournament.

This program, organised by CAF’s Referees Department, will encompass physical, technical, and theoretical evaluations aimed at ensuring peak performance throughout the event.

This meticulous selection of highly qualified match officials highlights CAF’s steadfast commitment to excellence in officiating, maintaining the integrity of the competition, and continually raising the technical standards in African football.

The full list of match officials appointed for the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON Morocco 2025 – here!

Al Masry beat Kaizer Chiefs to signal strong intents
by Football Sierra Leone

Al Masry beat Kaizer Chiefs to signal strong intents

Al Masry defeated Kaizer Chiefs 2-1 in their 2025/26 CAF Confederation Cup Group D match at the Suez Stadium on Sunday.

This win marks a strong start for coach Nabil Kouki’s team, who now look forward to facing Zesco United in Zambia on November 30.

Kaizer Chiefs, led by co-coaches Khalil Ben Youssef and Cedric Kaze, were disappointed after conceding a late goal.

Despite struggling early on, with goalkeeper Brandon Petersen making crucial saves, they improved and equalised in the 66th minute through Dillan Solomons.

However, a failure to clear a corner in the 87th minute allowed Mohamed Hashem to score, securing the victory for Al Masry.

Elsewhere, Olympique de Safi and USM Alger both won their first matches in Group A.

Safi had a strong performance, securing a 1–0 victory away at Djoliba. Salaheddine Errahouli scored the only goal in the 29th minute. The Moroccans defended well under pressure in the second half to secure the win.

In Algiers, USM Alger won a thrilling match against San Pedro, finishing 3–2.

Houssem Ghacha, Adem Alilet, and Saadi Radouani scored for USM Alger. San Pedro responded with goals from Dramane Kamagate and Mouhammadou Karamoko.