Category: African News

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Egypt join Morocco and Tunisia as Burkina Faso edge Sierra Leone
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Sierra Leone, Egypt and Burkina Faso record wins to wrap up World Cup qualifiers

In the final matches of Group A in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, Sierra Leone, Egypt, and Burkina Faso all secured victories to wrap up on high.

Sierra Leone played a match of little significance on Sunday, winning 2-1 at the Stade Larbi Zaouli in Casablanca. This was their final game in Group A of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers — early on, Samuel Gandi found the back of the net in the 23rd minute, but the goal was disallowed for offside after receiving a pass from Mohamed Buya Turay, the captain for the day for the Leone Stars.

Coach Mohamed Kallon’s team started strong against Djibouti, using decisive passing football despite Djibouti being a lower-ranked side with no prior wins. Surprisingly, Djibouti took the lead in the 29th minute.

Abdichakour Farah (Djibouti) left-footed shot from the centre of the box to the centre of the goal. Assisted by Idriss Houmed Bilha. (1-0).

Sierra Leone’s captain, Buya Turay, nearly equalised in the 35th minute with a shot that hit the crossbar, saved skillfully by the Djibouti goalkeeper.

Just before the halftime break, defender Juma Bah, who is currently on loan at Nice from Manchester City, equalised for Sierra Leone (1-1) with a header from the centre of the box into the middle of the goal. The assist came from Alhassan Koroma.

Following the break, both teams sought to secure an early goal. Sierra Leone’s Saidu Fofanah almost added a second with a direct free kick, but again was saved by Djibouti’s keeper.

Sierra Leone secured the winning goal through defender Sallieu Tarawallie in the 72nd minute (2-1), after timing his run perfectly to outsmart the Djibouti goalkeeper. This victory marked Coach Kallon’s third win since assuming the role.

In other action from Group A, Egypt and Burkina Faso completed their FIFA World Cup qualifiers with solid victories, winning 1–0 and 3–1, respectively.

Egypt has already clinched their spot in the 2026 World Cup following its convincing win over Djibouti, while Burkina Faso is hoping for favourable results elsewhere to earn a chance at a playoff spot.

Morocco eye set U20 FIFA World Cup history against the USA
by FSL News

Morocco eye U20 FIFA World Cup history against the USA

Morocco’s U-20 team is eyeing a place in the competition semifinal as the only representative of African nations remaining in the ongoing FIFA World Cup in Chile, after Nigeria and South Africa were eliminated in the Round of 16.

A win against the USA today could see them write their name in the U20 semi-finals history books after their already impressive run in the competition.

The Atlas Cubs are set to encounter a challenging match against the USA in the quarter-final scheduled for Sunday’s kickoff at El Teniente Stadium.

The Moroccan team aims to build on its strong performance in the group stage and secure a place in the semifinals, keeping alive the hopes of Arab and African nations in the global tournament.

Morocco delivered an impressive performance in the group stage of the U-20 World Cup in Chile, finishing at the top of their group with two victories and one defeat.

They began the tournament with a 2–0 win over Spain, followed by a 2–1 triumph against Brazil, and wrapped up the group stage with a 1-0 loss to Mexico.

The Atlas Cubs displayed solid defensive organisation and finishing skills, scoring four goals while conceding only two. A semi-final spot will surely establish their presence on the global stage.

Nigeria was knocked out of the tournament following a significant 4–0 loss to Argentina, while South Africa faced defeat against Colombia, losing 3–1.

A recap of the WAFU A U17 qualifiers after two matches
by Football Sierra Leone

A recap of the WAFU A U17 qualifiers after two matches

Sierra Leone U17 are bottom of Group B after their opening two matches in the ongoing WAFU A qualifiers.

In an evening match at the ongoing WAFU A U-17 boys tournament in Bamako, Mali, Guinea and Senegal battled to a 1-1 draw on Thursday.

Earlier that day, Sierra Leone faced Mauritania, suffering a 2-1 defeat after their opening draw against Senegal.

After two rounds of matches, the Sierra Stars find themselves at the bottom of the group with just one point, while Guinea tops the table with four points.

Mauritania holds second place with three points, closely followed by the defending champions, Senegal, who sit in third with two points.

In Group A, Mali sits at the top after two matches and will face The Gambia today at Mamadou Stadium. Meanwhile, Guinea-Bissau will go head-to-head with Liberia at Ouezzin Coulibaly Stadium. Both matches are set to kick off at 16:00 as teams vie for a spot in the semi-finals.

Only the top two teams will move on to the semi-finals at the end of the group stage.

In Group A, Mali sits at the top after two matches and will face The Gambia today at Mamadou Stadium.
In Group A, Mali sits at the top after two matches and will face The Gambia today at Mamadou Stadium.
Morocco book last eight FIFA U-20 World Cup spot after win over Korea Republic
by Football Sierra Leone

Morocco book last eight U-20 World Cup spot after win over Korea Republic

Morocco secured their place in the quarter-finals of the FIFA U-20 World Cup Chile 2025 with a commendable 2–1 victory over the Korea Republic in Rancagua on Thursday evening.

This achievement came through goals from Yassir Zabiri and an own goal by a Korean player. As a result, the Atlas Cubs are set to face the USA in the quarter-finals on Sunday, continuing their notable performance in South America.

The match commenced with an early threat from Korea as Kim Taewon’s powerful shot was expertly cleared off the line by Ismael Baouf within the first three minutes. However, Morocco quickly responded and gained the advantage shortly thereafter. An acrobatic attempt from Yassir Zabiri, which seemed destined to miss, was unfortunately deflected into the net by Shin Minha, putting the North Africans ahead early in the contest.

Morocco demonstrated strong control in their match against Korea, utilizing disciplined defense and rapid attacks. A key moment occurred when Othmane Maamma assisted Zabiri in scoring Morocco’s second goal.

Despite Korea earning a late penalty from Kim Taewon, it only served as a consolation as Morocco won the match, advancing to the quarter-finals under coach Mohamed Ouahbi.

Post-match, Maamma praised the team’s resilience and emphasized the importance of maintaining focus for future games. Notably, Morocco has now defeated an Asian Football Confederation (AFC) nation in three consecutive tournament editions.

Amoura, Mahrez nets as Algeria qualify for World Cup after 12-year absence
by FSL News

Amoura, Mahrez nets as Algeria qualify for World Cup after 12-year absence

Algeria has qualified for the FIFA World Cup for the first time since 2014, defeating Somalia 3-0 in Oran to secure first place in Group G of the African qualifiers.

This victory marks Algeria’s fifth appearance at the World Cup and their first in 12 years. Mohamed El Amine Amoura scored two goals, while captain Riyad Mahrez added another.

The win ensured their qualification for the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

Algeria joins Morocco, Tunisia, and Egypt as the fourth African nation to qualify for the tournament, which will feature 48 teams for the first time.

Elsewhere, Jude Ssemugabi’s header early in the second half was crucial as Uganda claimed an important victory over Botswana to reinforce their second place in the group.

The Cranes controlled possession and generated more significant opportunities, with Rogers Mato forcing a great save during the first half.  

Ssemugabi’s finish from close range was sufficient to secure the win, even with late pressure from the home team.

Uganda now requires only a draw in their final match against the already-qualified Algeria to ensure a top-two finish — and a possible place among the four best runners-up heading into the playoffs.

Botswana 0–1 Uganda – Scorer: Ssemugabi (54′)

In Group H, Liberia renewed their chances of making it to the continental play-offs by defeating Namibia 3-1, while Kenya achieved a confidence-boosting 1-0 win against Burundi in Group F.

Cape Verde closs-in on first-ever World Cup qualfication
by Football Sierra Leone

Cape Verde close in on first-ever World Cup qualification

Cape Verde could rewrite their own history by reaching the next FIFA World Cup in 2026 hosted in the USA, Canada and Mexico if they can win against Eswatini next week.

Cape Verde’s admirable fightback has them two points clear at the section’s summit. Libya now need a miracle to reach the next stage of qualifying.

The Mediterranean Knights exploded out of the blocks. Fadel Mansour played a crisp one-two down the right, and his cross was turned into his own net by the outstretched leg of Pico.

The Blue Sharks responded when Telmo Arcanjo headed home Jamiro Monteiro’s devilish delivery, but Ezzeddin El Maremi stabbed home to restore the hosts’ advantage.

A spectacular, swerving free-kick from El Maremi seemingly put the contest to bed, but an error from goalkeeper Murad Alwuheeshi gave Cabo Verde hope before Willy Semedo scrambled home a leveller.

They’ll host Eswatini at the Estádio Nacional de Cabo Verde stadium, and a win will surely see them making it to the 2026 World Cup as Group D winners.

Libya 3-3 Cabo Verde

Libya goals: Pico OG (2), El Maremi (42), Al-Shalwi (58)

Cabo Verde goals: Arcanjo (30), Lopes Cabral (76), Semedo (82)

Meanwhile,Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Madagascar and Niger claimed crucial wins in FIFA World Cup 26 qualifying as Angola, Comoros, Guinea-Bissau, Mali and Sierra Leone were eliminated.

Ghana Black Stars on the verge of reaching the 2026 World Cup
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Ghana Black Stars on the verge of reaching the 2026 World Cup

Following a 5-0 victory over the Central African Republic, thanks to the inspired performance from Jordan Ayew on Wednesday at the Stade d'Honneur in their World Cup qualifying matchday nine, the Black Stars only require a point from their last Group I match on Sunday.

Midway through the first half, Mohammed Salisu’s strong header from Mohammed Kudus’s corner put the Black Stars ahead.

Before the Leicester City forward sent a brilliant first-time volley, Ayew arranged second-half goals for former Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey and Alexander Djiku. Across goal and into the bottom corner in the 71st minute. Kamaldeen Sulemana contributed the fifth to preserve his team’s three points ahead on the table.

Madagascar hung onto a 2-1 away victory over Comoros in the battle with their closest opponents in Group I, thus maintaining their position aiming to be eligible for their first ever World Cup while also destroying their rivals’ aspiration to do the same.

Opening in the 11th minute in a game played in unrelenting driving rain in neutral Abidjan, Ivory Coast, Clement Couturier side-footed for the visitors. For a few amazing first-half saves, the Malagasy had goalie Geordan Dupire to thank; then, El Hadary Raheriniaina’s potent 73rd-minute header made the score 2-0.

With eight minutes left to set up a possible grandstand finish, Rafiki said pulled a goal back, but the match ended in comical scenes as the Comoros keeper Salim Ben Boina sent off, a flooded pitch virtually prevented play and held up the ball on the turf.

Handball stoppage time on the periphery of the center circle as he tried to halt a counter attack. In the last round of games on Sunday (19:00 GMT), Ghana will host Comoros and Madagascar.

Though their goal differential means they may yet qualify even if they lose, Ghana just requires one point to guarantee their place at the World Cup.

To deny the West Africans first place, Madagascar must triumph; hopefully the Black Stars lose and also reverse an eight-goal disadvantage.

Egypt join Morocco and Tunisia as Burkina Faso edge Sierra Leone
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Egypt join Morocco and Tunisia as Burkina Faso edge Sierra Leone

The Pharaohs of Egypt have confirmed their qualification from Group A after a 3-0 win over Djibouti in Morocco on Wednesday at the Stade Larbi Zaouli in Casablanca, as Sierra Leone suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat to Burkina Faso in Liberia.

Ibrahim Adel and Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah brace were enough as Egypt booked a berth at the FIFA World Cup 2026 with an easy 3-0 win over Djibouti in Casablanca that gave them top place in Group A with one game remaining.

The win secured their top spot with 23 points with a game to spare as they look to rest some players when they face Guinea-Bissau, who lost to Ethiopia 1-0 earlier on Wednesday.

Joining fellow North Africans Morocco and Tunisia, the Pharaohs become the third African team to claim their World Cup spot.

Though they have won a record seven Africa Cup of Nations titles, Egypt have battled to reproduce their continental performance in World Cup qualifying above appearing at football’s biggest event on only three prior occasions—in 1934, 1990 and 2018—years.

In Liberia, Sierra Leone began the match strongly, with Momoh Kamara and Blackburn Rovers winger Augustus Kargbo challenging the Burkina Faso defence in the opening 15 minutes at Samuel Kanyon Doe Stadium in Liberia.

This means Burkina Faso climbed up to third in the best-placed teams with 18 points until other matchday nine matches in the qualifers played. 

Sunderland’s Bertrand Traoré and Dango Ouattara were largely isolated as Sierra Leone maintained possession through passing football, creating a couple of half-chances. Notably, Kei Kamara’s volley in the 27th minute went wide.

However, Burkina Faso got the lead through Mohamed Zougrana (0 – 1) in the 43rd minute from a header following Sunderland’s Bertrand Traoré’s corner kick.

Sierra Leone’s Kei Kamara had the chance to equalise, but his attempt was saved by the Burkina Faso goalkeeper in the 44th minute, and the visitors nearly extended their lead when Bertrand Traoré touched a loose ball wide before halftime.

After the break, the hosts were more energetic, with Kei Kamara and Kargbo coming close to scoring as the visiting goalkeeper was kept busy. In the end, there were no more goals from either side. 

Only group winners are assured of automatic qualification, while the top four second-placed teams will move on to next month’s African play-offs, where an additional team will secure a place in the intercontinental qualifiers.

90′ Substitution, Sierra Leone. Mohamed Turay replaces Nathaniel Jalloh.

82′ Substitution, Burkina Faso. Saïdou Simporé replaced Ismahila Ouédraogo.

82’ Substitution, Burkina Faso. Saïdou Simporé replaced Ismahila Ouédraogo.

82′ Substitution, Burkina Faso. Pierre Landry Kabore replaced Bertrand Traoré.

74′ Substitution, Burkina Faso. Josué Tiendrébéogo replaced Abdoul Ayindé.

74′ Substitution, Burkina Faso. Mohamed Ouédraogo replaced Mohamed Zougrana.

69′ Substitution, Sierra Leone. Alhassan Koroma replaced Abu Dumbuya.

69′Substitution, Sierra Leone. John Sesay replaced Sallieu Tarawallie.

69′ Substitution, Sierra Leone. Samuel Gandi replaced Kei Kamara.

The last dance as Egypt set to wrap up qualification against Djibouti
by FSL News

The last dance as Egypt set to wrap up qualification against Djibouti

The Pharaohs of Egypt, led by Captain Hossam Hassan, finished its training on Tuesday at Al-Arabi Al-Zawali Stadium in Morocco ahead of the Djibouti contest.

The North Africans have excelled in their group with Hossam Hassan at the helm, blending solid defence with exciting offence.

They’ve set their sight on a win against Djibouti – kickoff at 7 PM on Wednesday at the Stade El Arbi Zaouli in Morocco. This match is part of the ninth round of the African qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup finals.

With only nine group winners guaranteed a ticket to next year’s expanded finals in Canada, Mexico, and the United States, today’s matches could determine more places.

Morocco and Tunisia have already secured qualification, leaving seven automatic spots still up for grabs across the continent. With 20 points at the top of Group A, a victory could secure Egypt’s place in the 2026 World Cup, marking their fourth appearance, having first qualified in 1934.

All 24 players took part in Tuesday’s training session, which included: Mohamed El Shenawy, Mustafa Chobeir, Mohamed Sobhi, Abdelaziz El Balouti, Mohamed Hani, Mohamed Hamdi, Ahmed Eid, Rami Rabia, Khaled Sobhi, Yasser Ibrahim, Amr El Gazar, Hossam Abdel Majid, Ahmed Nabil Koka, Marwan Attia, Hamdi Fathy, Mohanad Lasheen, Mahmoud Sabre, Ahmed Sayed Zizo, Mahmoud Trezeguet, Mohamed Salah, Ibrahim Adel, Mustafa Fathy, Mustafa Mohamed, and Osama Faisal.

With 20 points at the top of Group A, a victory can secure Egypt place in the 2026 World Cup
With 20 points at the top of Group A, a victory can secure Egypt place in the 2026 World Cup
Cameroon's Marc Brys - 'we must win to keep hopes alive'
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Cameroon’s Marc Brys – ‘We must win to keep hopes alive’

Cameroon's Belgian coach, Marc Brys, has candidly acknowledged that finishing at the top of Group D and securing direct qualification is now beyond reach.

He emphasised that the focus must shift to clinching second place. “We need to win our next two matches to keep our World Cup hopes alive.”

Brys and the Indomitable Lions are gearing up to face Mauritius on Wednesday, October 8, in St. Pierre for Day 9 of the FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

This upcoming match, along with the game against Angola on October 13 in Yaoundé, holds great importance for Cameroon’s qualification hopes.

“I believe the players are eager to win these matches. Securing second place is the best we can aim for, so our goal is to finish as the top second-placed team in order to qualify. Finishing first is no longer an option,” Brys stated.

Cape Verde faces Libya and currently sits atop the group with 19 points. A win today could see them qualify for their first-ever World Cup, regardless of Cameroon’s results in the next two matches.