Category: African News

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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.

Uganda Cranes Head Coach Paul Joseph Put names provisional AFCON squad
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Uganda Cranes Head Coach Paul Put names provisional AFCON squad

Uganda Cranes Head Coach Paul Joseph Put has named a 30-man provisional squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, primarily selecting players from recent matches, including AFCON Qualifiers, World Cup Qualifiers, and CHAN 2024.

Young talent James Bogere, who played for the Uganda Cubs at the recently concluded FIFA U17 World Cup in Qatar, has received a call-up. Bogere, who was a standout for the U17 team, earns his first opportunity to join the senior national squad and is in contention for a place in the final roster.

At the U17 World Cup, he netted two goals, scoring against France and Canada. Alhassan Baba and Melyvn Lorenzen, who made their debuts during last month’s international window in friendlies against Morocco and Chad, are also included in the team.

The squad is scheduled to depart for Morocco on Sunday evening to begin preparations. The training camp in Casablanca will last for 11 days before the final squad of 28 is announced.

While in Morocco, the Uganda Cranes aim to compete in two international friendlies to prepare for the tournament, which will be held from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026. Uganda has been placed in Group C alongside Nigeria, Tunisia, and Tanzania.

Uganda Cranes Provisional AFCON 2025 Squad (30 Players)
Goalkeepers

  • Salim Omar Magoola – Richards Bay FC (South Africa)

  • Denis Onyango – Mamelodi Sundowns (South Africa)

  • Alionzi Nafian – Defence Forces FC (Ethiopia)

  • Charles Lukwago – KCCA FC (Uganda)

Defenders

  • Toby Sibbick – Burton Albion (England)

  • Elio Caprodossi – Universitatea Cluj (Romania)

  • Jordan Obita – Hibernian FC (Scotland)

  • Rogers Torach – Vipers SC (Uganda)

  • Abdu Azizi Kayondo – Slovan Liberec (Czech Republic)

  • Isaac Muleme – Viktoria Žižkov (Czech Republic)

  • Timothy Awany – FC Ashdod (Israel)

  • David Owori – SC Villa (Uganda)

  • Hilary Mukundane – Vipers SC (Uganda)

Midfielders

  • Kenneth Semakula – Al-Adalah FC (Saudi Arabia)

  • Khalid Aucho – Singida Black Stars (Tanzania)

  • Ronald Ssekingada – APR FC (Rwanda)

  • Bobosi Byaruhanga – Oakland Roots (USA)

  • Baba Alhassan – FCSB (Romania)

Forwards

  • Allan Okello – Vipers SC (Uganda)

  • Melvyn Lorenzen – Muangthong United (Thailand)

  • Travis Mutyaba – CS Sfaxien (Tunisia)

  • Denis Omedi – APR FC (Rwanda)

  • Mato Rogers – FK Vardar (North Macedonia)

  • Reagan Mpande – SC Villa (Uganda)

  • Jude Ssemugabi – Jamus FC (South Sudan)

  • Uchechukwu Ikpeazu – St. Johnstone (Scotland)

  • Steven Mukwala – Simba SC (Tanzania)

  • James Bogere – Masaka Sunshine FC (Uganda)

  • Ivan Ahimbisibwe – KCCA FC (Uganda)

  • Shafik Nana Kwikiriza – KCCA FC (Uganda)

African teams know their 2026 FIFA World Cup opponents
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

African teams know their 2026 FIFA World Cup opponents

Africa’s teams for the 2026 FIFA World Cup learned their group assignments in Washington D.C. on Friday.

The expanded tournament will include 48 teams, and Africa will have nine qualified teams, with the DR Congo hoping to join through play-offs.

Morocco, Africa’s top-ranked team and semi-finalists in 2022, is in Group C with Brazil, Scotland, and Haiti. This matchup with Brazil will attract global attention.

South Africa returns to the World Cup for the first time since 2010, placed in Group A with Mexico, South Korea, and the European play-off winner, aiming for its first knockout stage.

Ivory Coast, champions in 2015 and 2023, competes in Group E alongside Germany, Curaçao, and Ecuador, eyeing progression despite Germany’s strength.

Tunisia, in Group F with the Netherlands, Japan, and a European play-off winner, hopes to capitalise on opportunities against Japan and the play-off team.

Egypt, back since 2018, finds itself in Group G with Belgium, Iran, and New Zealand, presenting a decent chance to advance.

Cape Verde debuts in Group H against Spain, Uruguay, and Saudi Arabia, marking a historic moment for the team.

Algeria faces Argentina, Austria, and Jordan in Group J, with the match against Argentina highly anticipated.

Senegal, Africa’s second-highest-ranked team, is in Group I with France, Norway, and a South American–Asian play-off winner, presenting a tough challenge.

Ghana joins Group L with England, Croatia, and Panama, seeking to regain its strong World Cup form.

DR Congo could join Group K if they win their playoff against Jamaica and Iraq, facing Portugal, Colombia, and another playoff winner.

Africa’s World Cup journey promises exciting matchups and new opportunities.

The 2026 World Cup groups

Group A: Mexico, South Africa, Korea Republic, European Play-Off D winner (Czechia, Denmark, North Macedonia or the Republic of Ireland)

Group B: Canada, European Play-Off A winner (Bosnia and Herzegovina, Italy, Northern Ireland or Wales), Qatar, Switzerland

Group C: Brazil, Morocco, Haiti, Scotland

Group D: United States, Paraguay, Australia, European Play-Off C winner (Kosovo, Romania, Slovakia or Türkiye)

Group E: Germany, Curaçao, Côte d’Ivoire, Ecuador

Group F: Netherlands, Japan, European Play-Off B winner (Albania, Poland, Sweden or Ukraine), Tunisia

Group G: Belgium, Egypt, Iran, New Zealand

Group H: Spain, Cabo Verde, Saudi Arabia, Uruguay

Group I: France, Senegal, FIFA Play-Off Tournament winner 2 (Bolivia, Iraq or Suriname), Norway

Group J: Argentina, Algeria, Austria, Jordan

Group K: Portugal, FIFA Play-Off Tournament winner 1 (DR Congo, Jamaica or New Caledonia), Uzbekistan, Colombia

Group L: England, Croatia, Ghana, Panama 

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

Big AFCON 2025 blow for Nigeria's Super Eagles as skipper retires
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Big AFCON 2025 blow for Nigeria’s Super Eagles as skipper retires

William Troost-Ekong has decided to retire from international football. This means he will not play for Nigeria in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

The decision comes just days before the Africa Cup of Nations begins in Morocco on December 21, where Nigeria will compete in Group C alongside Tunisia, Tanzania, and Uganda.

The 31-year-old centre-back Troost-Ekong was recently part of Eric Chelle’s preliminary squad for the tournament in Morocco, but has chosen to step aside to allow younger players to take the stage.

He earned 83 caps for the Super Eagles, making his debut under Stephen Keshi in 2015. His last match was a 4-1 win over Gabon before Nigeria’s elimination from World Cup qualifying.

Troost-Ekong participated in the 2018 World Cup and three AFCON tournaments, winning bronze in 2019 and silver in 2023, where he was named Player of the Tournament.

He expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to represent Nigeria, highlighting his growth from a boy in the Netherlands to captain of the Super Eagles.

With accomplishments including 83 caps, participation in five major tournaments, and three medals, he felt fulfilled in his journey. He emphasised the importance of passing the captaincy to the next generation to continue their legacy.

Samuel Chukwueze nets brace in Fulham's defeat to Manchester City
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Samuel Chukwueze nets brace in Fulham’s defeat to Manchester City

Fulham's thrilling comeback ended in heartbreak with a 4-5 defeat to Manchester City at Craven Cottage in Tuesday's Premier League action

City took an early lead with goals from Erling Haaland, Tijjani Reijnders, and Phil Foden. Emile Smith Rowe pulled one back with a header just before halftime.

Despite another goal from Foden and an own goal by Sander Berge putting City ahead, Fulham fought back. Alex Iwobi scored, followed by Samuel Chukwueze’s brace, marking his first goals for the club. A late chance for Josh King to equalise was cleared off the line.

Manager Marco Silva made key adjustments, reinstating Saša Lukić and Smith Rowe after the win against Tottenham. Fulham had opportunities early on but fell behind after two quick City goals. Yet, Smith Rowe’s stoppage-time header brought renewed hope.

In the second half, City’s lead was restored with another goal from Foden, but Fulham persisted. Iwobi’s stunning goal and Chukwueze’s swift volley brought the score to 4-5.

With eight minutes of added time, a dramatic equalizer was tantalizingly close, but King’s effort was heartbreakingly cleared, denying Fulham a remarkable comeback.

Ghanaian defender Maxwell Woledzi MLS side Nashville
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Ghanaian defender Maxwell Woledzi joins MLS side Nashville

Maxwell Woledzi, 24, the defedner, who was instrumental in Fredrikstad FK's 2024 Norwegian Cup win, helping the team secure a spot in the Eliteserien. He was named to the league's Team of the Year and Fredrikstad FK’s Player of the Year in 2025.

In 2018, Woledzi founded the Maxwell Woledzi Foundation and launched The Hijab Project in his hometown of Nima, Ghana, to empower young people, especially girls, in soccer.

On December 2, 2025, Nashville SC announced Woledzi’s signing from Fredrikstad FK for the 2026 season, with an option to extend through 2029. “Maxwell is a fantastic player and a great leader,” said Nashville SC President Mike Jacobs.

Since joining Fredrikstad FK in 2023, Woledzi has made 88 appearances, including 29 league matches in the 2024 season. Before Fredrikstad, he developed at FC Nordsjaelland in Denmark from 2019 to 2022, playing 33 First Team matches, and later played for Vitória Guimarães SC B in Portugal.

Woledzi began his journey at the Right to Dream Academy in Ghana at age 14, which has helped young talent grow both on and off the pitch.

Shocking Cameroon AFCON squad news, no keeper Andre Onana
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Shocking Cameroon AFCON squad news, no keeper Andre Onana

Andre Onana has been excluded from Cameroon's squad for the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 in Morocco, following the dismissal of head coach Marc Brys amidst claims of "subterfuge."

Just days after being re-elected as president of the Cameroonian Football Federation (Fecafoot), Samuel Eto’o and his executive team announced Brys’s exit in a dramatic statement.

The statement details a long list of accusations against Brys, including allegations of “professional failure” and claims that he incited players to oppose Fecafoot’s authority.

The Belgian coach, who was appointed by Cameroon’s sports ministry in April 2024—a decision Eto’o aimed to overturn—also faces accusations of “collaborating with unknown individuals” within Fecafoot.

Furthermore, he is criticised for missing important meetings, withholding training schedules, damaging relationships with sponsors, delaying his squad announcements, and avoiding his responsibility to hold press conferences.

Stepping in for Brys is one of his assistants, David Pagou, a seasoned Cameroonian coach with experience managing several teams in the country’s top league.

However, Pagou’s 28-man squad for the upcoming Afcon in Morocco, set to kick off on December 21, notably lacks several key players. Among those missing are goalkeeper Onana, team captain Vincent Aboubakar, Napoli midfielder Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa, who is sidelined due to injury and defender Michael Ngadeu.

While Anguissa’s absence is understood, no explanations have been provided for the exclusion of the other players.

Debutants Nairobi United fell to a second defeat in CAF Confederation Cup
by FSL News

Debutants Nairobi United fell to a second defeat in the CAF Confederation Cup

Nairobi United suffered their second consecutive defeat in the TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup, losing 1–0 to DR Congo’s AS Maniema at Kasarani, who remain at the top of Group B.

The only goal of the match was scored in the 67th minute by Jaency Mboma Kinda, who converted a low cross from Chadoma Ozome at the near post. This rare moment of clarity in a cautious game ensured Maniema’s strong defensive record in the group remained intact.

Before the goal, scoring chances were limited, but Maniema gained momentum after halftime with a double substitution that energised their midfield and right flank.

Nairobi responded with three substitutions in the 69th minute, but the Congolese side managed the game’s final moments well. Nairobi’s frustration showed when Kevin Otiende received a yellow card in the 71st minute, followed by Mboma Kinda being cautioned in the 80th. Maniema also made a late substitution and held on with disciplined defending.

This victory puts Maniema on six points from two matches, tied with Wydad AC at the top of the standings on goal difference (Wydad 4:0, Maniema 3:0). Nairobi remains at the bottom, without any points or goals, while Azam is in third place.

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.