Category: African News

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Esperance beat Atletico to secure Champions League quarter-final spot
by FSL News

Esperance beat Atletico to secure Champions League quarter-final spot

Esperance secured their place in the quarter-finals of the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League with a commanding 2-0 victory over Petro Atletico.

Also, Stade Malien confirmed top spot in Group D after edging Simba SC 1-0 in the final round of matches on Saturday. The Tunisian giants delivered under pressure at the Rades Stadium, producing a composed second-half display to eliminate the Angolan side and finish second in the group.

After a cautious first half marked by disciplined defending and limited clear chances, the breakthrough arrived immediately after the restart.

Aboubacar Diakité struck in the 46th minute, capitalising on sustained pressure to give Esperance the lead and swing momentum firmly in their favour.

As Petro committed numbers forward in search of an equaliser, gaps began to appear at the back. Jacques Diarra exploited one such opening in the 81st minute, finishing confidently to double Esperance’s advantage and extinguish any lingering doubts about qualification.

The result lifts Esperance to nine points, securing second place behind Stade Malien, who concluded the group stage with 11 points.

Stade Malien 1-0 Simba

In Bamako, Stade Malien underlined their consistency with a narrow 1-0 win over Tanzania’s Simba SC.

Anicet Wara scored as early as the fourth minute, handing the hosts a perfect start and allowing them to control proceedings.

Simba, already facing a difficult task, struggled to recover from the early setback.

The final standings see Stade Malien top with 11 points, Esperance second with nine, Petro Atletico third on six, and Simba bottom with five.

For Esperance and Stade Malien, attention now turns to the quarter-final draw. 

Al-Hilal and Mamelodi Sundowns advance in CAF Champions League
by Football Sierra Leone

Al-Hilal and Mamelodi Sundowns advance in CAF Champions League

Al-Hilal of Sudan secured the top position in Group C of the CAF Champions League, while Mamelodi Sundowns clinched the second spot after a thrilling final round that led to the elimination of MC Alger on Saturday.

The Sudanese champions narrowly defeated Saint Eloi Lupopo 1-0, finishing the group stage with 11 points, two ahead of Sundowns, who achieved a decisive 2-0 victory over MC Alger to end with nine points and secure the final spot in the quarter-finals.

With all four teams still in contention as they entered Matchday 6, the group maintained high tension right until the final whistle.

Al-Hilal 1-0 Saint Eloi Lupopo

In Omdurman, Al-Hilal knew that a win would secure them first place, regardless of the outcome of the other match. They took control midway through the first half when Stephen Ebola struck in the 26th minute, sending a powerful low shot past the Lupopo keeper, which eased the nerves in the stadium.

However, the match was far from simple. Mohamed Abdel Rahman Gharbal appealed for a penalty in the 18th minute after being brought down in the area, but the referee waved play on. The challenge for Lupopo intensified just before half-time when Bedi Junior received a second yellow card for pulling an opponent’s shirt, leaving them with ten men.

Even with this setback, the Congolese side thought they found an equaliser in the 72nd minute, only for the goal to be ruled out for offside. Just moments later, Al-Hilal also had to cope with a red card issued to Salah Adel in the 76th minute, making for a nail-biting finish. Nevertheless, the Sudanese side held their ground, preserving their slim lead and securing their status as group winners.

Mamelodi Sundowns 2-0 MC Alger

In Pretoria, Sundowns wasted no time in asserting their dominance against MC Alger. Colombian forward Brian Leon Muniz found the net in the sixth minute, reacting swiftly to a rebound from the Algerian goalkeeper and putting the South African side ahead early on.

Knowing that only a win could guarantee their progression, Sundowns maintained their grip on the game, doubling their lead in the 64th minute. Muniz was once again the star, connecting with a low cross inside the area and finishing sharply to complete his brace and effectively dash MC Alger’s hopes.

Despite beginning the day with seven points, the Algerian side pushed forward in search of a goal but were met with disciplined defending and tactical maturity from Sundowns. The final whistle sealed their elimination, while the South African champions advanced confidently.

In the final standings, Al-Hilal topped the group with 11 points, followed by Sundowns with nine, MC Alger in third with seven, and Lupopo at the bottom with five.

Having progressed as group winners, Hilal will face one of the runners-up from other groups, while Sundowns will prepare for a potentially tougher draw against a group leader in the quarter-finals.

Group C, which showcased balance and drama throughout the campaign, brought the excitement to a fitting conclusion with two worthy quarter-finalists emerging.

Senegal's Nicolas Jackson may return to Chelsea after loan spell
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Senegal’s Nicolas Jackson may return to Chelsea after loan spell

German football giants, Bayern Munich have decided not to extend Nicolas Jackson’s loan spell in Bavaria.

The Senegalese striker, who helped his national team clinch the Africa Cup of Nations title in 2025, joined Bayern on a loan deal from Chelsea, which included an option to buy under specific conditions.

Unfortunately for Jackson, it seems unlikely that he will meet the requirement to start 40 matches for Bayern, which would trigger the automatic activation of the purchase option.

In his time with the club, the former Villarreal forward made 21 appearances, scoring 5 goals and providing 1 assist. As a result, he will be heading back to Stamford Bridge before possibly seeking a new club in the upcoming transfer window.

Reports have surfaced suggesting that Jackson has caught the attention of several clubs, including Turkish giants Fenerbahce. There’s also a chance he could remain at Chelsea to integrate into Liam Rosenior’s squad, especially following the departure of Enzo Maresca, who didn’t have the best relationship with the Senegalese forward.

Having represented Senegal 31 times and scored 7 goals, Jackson played a crucial role in their AFCON success, netting 2 goals in 5 matches as they defeated the hosts, Morocco, 1-0 to secure their second AFCON title in January.

Pape Gueye nets an extra time stunner as Senegal win AFCON title
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

The 2027 Africa Cup of Nations is set for the June–July slot

June and July next year will see the Confederation of African Football (Caf) president Patrice Motsepe reveal the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon).

According to the South African, rumours that the event, co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda, would be postponed or moved were utterly untrue. Doubts have been cast regarding the time frame for the readiness of the necessary infrastructure in the three East African nations to host the finals.

Meanwhile, Nicholas Musonye, the head of Kenya’s local organising committee, informed AFP on Thursday that postponing the event until 2028 would be beneficial for Kenya since the nation is preparing for general elections in August 2027.

According to Motsepe, the Afcon next year in Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda will be really well received.

“I have great assurance. Challenges abound always. As Africans, we must have faith in ourselves and in our people. World class are the calibre of people leading African football.”

Following a meeting of Caf’s executive committee in Dar es Salaam on Friday, Motsepe was addressing a news conference as an inspection of infrastructure and facilities in the three host countries by officials from the governing body would continue till Tuesday.

Starting in 2019, Caf vowed to hold Afcon mid-year, but the previous three tournaments have been scheduled for January-February or December-January.

Scheduling the competition during the European club season has caused arguments about player release dates; from 2028, Afcon will be run every four years rather than biannually.

The exact dates of the 2027 Afcon will be made public in due time, Motsepe said. While stating he hoped to grow Afcon from 24 to 28 teams in the future, the Caf president made no mention of offers to host the 2028 finals.

Still set for Morocco WAFCON

Motsepe elsewhere states that Caf still have a connection with Morocco to stage the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (Wafcon), set to start on 17 March.

Early this month, South Africa’s deputy sports minister said that her country would intervene toorganisee the championships.

South African sports minister Gayton McKenzie eventually clarified her remarks by saying that Wafcon 2026’s formally designated host is Morocco.

Some other nations said, “Please, can we host it?” but they want to move the date, Motsepe reported.

The [2027] Women’s World Cup qualifier demands the date; we cannot alter it.

The Wafcon continues; it will be a success. It must occur inside that window.

Inform Ademola Lookman nets in Atletico Madrid's win over Barcelona
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Inform Ademola Lookman’s nets in Copa del Rey win over Barcelona

Atletico Madrid showcased an impressive first-half performance, dominating La Liga leaders Barcelona in the first leg of their Copa del Rey semi-final.

The visitors faced an uphill battle when a potential goal by Pau Cubarsi was ruled offside after an eight-minute VAR review. This was the second consecutive year the teams met at this stage, with Barcelona winning last season.

This time, Atletico exacted revenge by scoring four times before halftime. The rout began with an error from Eric Garcia, whose backpass slipped under goalkeeper Joan Garcia for an own goal.

Antoine Griezmann soon doubled the lead with a fine strike against his former club. Atletico continued to press, with Nigerian International Ademola Lookman adding a third goal, following a superb setup from Julian Alvarez. Just before the break, Alvarez thumped home a long-range effort, ending his goal drought.

In the second half, Barcelona thought they had scored when Cubarsi tapped in from a Robert Lewandowski assist, but VAR disallowed it for offside after a lengthy review.

Things only worsened for Barcelona, as Garcia received a red card for a foul on Alex Baena late in the game. With this defeat, Barcelona faces a challenging task in the return leg on 3 March.

Ghana's Antoine Semenyo takes tally to five since arriving Manchester City
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Ghana’s Antoine Semenyo takes tally to five since arriving at Manchester City

The Ghanaian International has recored five goals in his last games since joining Manchester City.

Ghana’s Antoine Semenyo made a significant impact once again as Manchester City cruised to a 3-0 victory over Fulham at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday in the English Premier League.

After struggling to break through during the first twenty minutes, Semenyo opened the scoring with a sharp finish, capitalising on Fulham’s failure to clear a cross into the box.

Just six minutes later, City doubled their lead. Nico O’Reilly picked up a loose ball in midfield and set up Semenyo on the left flank. The former Bournemouth player then returned the favor, finding O’Reilly, who made no mistake putting the ball past Fulham keeper Bernd Leno.

The Sky Blues showcased their efficiency, with Phil Foden assisting star striker Erling Haaland to secure a dominant first-half performance, which all but sealed the three points for the title challengers. With this win, City now sits just three points behind league leaders Arsenal, who are set to play against Brentford on Thursday.

Semenyo’s impressive form at Manchester City continues, as he now boasts 3 goals in his first 5 Premier League matches for the club. Overall, he has scored 5 goals and provided 2 assists in 8 appearances since joining in January.

The team is now gearing up for a FA Cup match this Saturday at home against League Two side Salford.

Pyramids, Stade Malien pick CAF Champions League quarter-final spots
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Pyramids, Stade Malien pick CAF Champions League quarter-final spots

Pyramids FC secured top spot in Group A of the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League with a commanding 4–1 win over Rivers United.

After trailing 1–0 at halftime due to Stephen Manu’s long-range strike, Pyramids turned the game around in the second half.

Mostafa Fathi equalised in the 53rd minute, and Marwan Hamdi converted a penalty in the 77th minute to give them the lead. Late goals from substitute Awda Al-Fakhoury and Nasser Maher sealed the victory.

Pyramids advance to the quarter-finals with 13 points, while Rivers United are eliminated.

In Group D, Stade Malien earned a 1–0 win against Esperance de Tunis, securing their spot in the quarter-finals.

Koro Kouyali’s goal in the 54th minute proved decisive as Stade Malien’s sturdy defence held firm against Esperance’s attempts to equalise.

Mamelodi Sundowns faced Saint Éloi Lupopo in Group C, where they were held to a 1–1 draw. Enock Moila scored for Lupopo early on, and despite Sundowns dominating possession, they failed to find a winning goal, leaving the group open as they seek qualification.

Kaizer Chiefs, Zesco United record vital CAF Confed wins
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Kaizer Chiefs, Zesco United record vital CAF Confed wins

South African team Kaizer Chiefs and Zambian side Zesco United recorded victories as the CAF Confederation Cup group stage resumed on Sunday, 8 February.

Recap as Match Day 5 featured some thrilling results, setting the stage for a tense final match day.

Kaizer Chiefs 2–1 Al Masry

Kaizer Chiefs earned a hard-fought 2–1 victory against Al Masry. The hosts opened the scoring with a penalty by Flávio Silva in the 39th minute. Al Masry equalised in the 57th minute through Abderrahim Deghmoum. However, Aden McCarthy quickly restored Chiefs’ lead in the 60th minute, securing a vital win to top Group B.

Maniema Union 2–1 Wydad Casablanca

Maniema Union edged Wydad Casablanca 2–1, taking the lead with Beni Namboka’s goal in the 32nd minute. An own goal by Wydad’s goalkeeper Mehdi Benabid in the 61st minute doubled Maniema’s lead. Wydad responded with a penalty from Hamza Hannouri in the 66th minute but could not find an equaliser.

Otôho d’Oyo 2–1 Singida Black Stars

Otôho d’Oyo defeated Singida Black Stars 2–1. After Singida went down to ten men, Otôho’s Exauce Sagesse Nzaou scored twice, first in the 50th minute and again in the 79th. Singida pulled one back late through Joseph Guede Gnadou, but Otôho held on for the win.

ZESCO United 1–0 Zamalek  

Zesco United secured a 1–0 win against Zamalek. The breakthrough came in the 59th minute with a penalty converted by Amine Hiver. Despite Zamalek’s late pressure, including a near equaliser that hit the crossbar, Zesco defended well to claim all three points. However, they remained at the bottom of Group D after one win in five games. 

USM Alger and CR Belouizdad book CAF Confederation Cup knockout spots
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

USM Alger and CR Belouizdad book CAF Confederation Cup knockout spots

USM Alger and CR Belouizdad have both advanced to the knockout stages of the TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup, marking a successful round for Algerian clubs.

USM Alger from Group A achieved a dramatic late comeback to win 3–2 against San Pédro. They opened the scoring early, with Che Malone netting in the 2nd minute and Glody Likonza adding a second shortly after.

San Pédro equalised with two goals from Issouf Dosso before Mohamed Bouderbala secured the victory for USM in stoppage time.

In Group C, CR Belouizdad secured a 1–0 win over Singida Black Stars, with Abdennour Belhocini scoring the only goal in the 3rd minute. Despite being reduced to ten men, they held on for the win against a late surge from Singida.

In another match, Olympic Club de Safi defeated Djoliba 2–1. After an early goal by Salaheddine Errahouli and a penalty equaliser from Aboubacar Diarra, Sofiane El Moudane scored the winner for Safi early in the second half, securing their progression to the knockout stages.

Ademola Lookman nets as Atletico Madrid thrash Real Betis
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Ademola Lookman nets as Atletico Madrid thrash Real Betis

In a powerful 5–0 win over Real Betis on Thursday, which guaranteed a spot in the Copa del Rey semi-finals, Ademola Lookman stole the spotlight on his Atletico Madrid debut with a goal and an assist.

Having recently arrived from Serie A side Atalanta, the 25-year-old Nigerian international performed confidently as Atletico controlled the game at Seville’s La Cartuja Stadium.

Goals from David Hancko, Giuliano Simeone, Antoine Griezmann, Thiago Almada, and Lookman resulted in a humiliating defeat for Manuel Pellegrini’s Betis, much to the anger of their home crowd.

Looking back at the team’s performance, Griezmann noted, “We moved a lot without the ball and presented choices for whoever held it.” It was a more flexible game, we were in the proper spots, and ultimately we generated the possibilities we were seeking.”

He then went on to compliment Lookman, saying, “We are a very hospitable team, and everyone who joins us is welcomed right away.” With Lookman, we can see; we hope he brings us happiness.

Atletico started strong and took the lead inside the first 12 minutes as a result of captain Koke’s precision corner, which Hancko, a defender, blasted into with a towering header that proved too much for Betis’s goalie Adrian.

Eager to immediately impress, Lookman had two big opportunities to increase the advantage in the first half. He missed a one-on-one chance in the 16th minute; soon after, his first-time shot sailed over the crossbar.

The 30th minute saw the second goal after a fluent sequence of one-touch passes down the left flank. Matteo Ruggeri located Alex Baena, who traded passes with Lookman before the fullback low cross for Giuliano, son of Diego Simeone, smashed it past Adrian.

Named the 2024 African Footballer of the Year, Lookman scored his goal in the 37th minute by fending off one defender and dribbling past another in the box before slotting the ball into the left corner.

Atletico slowed their tempo following halftime but still managed to extend their lead with yet another counter-attack. In the 62nd minute, Lookman erupted down the middle, drawing defenders away before passing the ball off to Griezmann, who curled a shot into the top-right corner.

In the 83rd minute, Thiago Almada ended the massacre. Almada acted quickly after positioning Baena for a strike. Adrian could only parry, and he tucked the rebound into an unguarded net.

Early in the second half, Barrios sustained a hamstring injury while running and had to be replaced; this setback came against the otherwise dominating win.

On Friday, Barcelona, Athletic Bilbao, Real Sociedad, and Atletico will all compete for a spot in the final during the semi-final draw. Two legs, set for February 10–12 and March 3–5.