Category: African News

Our African football page passionately on all continental topics of all National and International football news, Identifying football heroes on our continent.

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.

Striker Cedric Bakambu eyes DR Congo World Cup 2026 spot
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Striker Cedric Bakambu eyes DR Congo World Cup 2026 spot

DR Congo's striker Cedric Bakambu has voiced his keen ambition to secure a spot in the FIFA World Cup 2026 as the team gears up for their final two matches in the qualification race for the tournament in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

The Congolese team sits second in Group B of the CAF qualifiers, trailing Senegal by two points. Despite a recent loss to Senegal, Bakambu remains hopeful about their chances, emphasising unity and determination to achieve qualification.

The DR Congo has not participated in the World Cup since 1974, making the current campaign significant. Bakambu, who has scored three goals and provided two assists recently, aspires to become DR Congo’s all-time top scorer, currently just three goals shy of the record.

He reflected on the emotional experience of playing at the Stade des Martyrs in front of a packed crowd and highlighted the importance of giving back to his country of origin, with strong ties to his roots.

“We’re still on track even though we lost against Senegal. Where there’s life, there’s hope,” adds the 34-year-old forward, not shying away from the memory of that painful 3-2 home defeat against the Teranga Lions on Matchday 8 on 9 September, when he opened the scoring.

“It makes no difference if we qualify for the World Cup directly or through the play‑offs. The target is still the same. It won’t be easy, but we’ll do everything in our power.”

“For me, Senegal is the best team in Africa. You could sense it on the pitch. They know all about playing on the biggest stage in the world. Nobody can say that Senegal didn’t deserve to win. Hats off to them. Just ask any of the Senegalese players – coming and getting a result at the Stade des Martyrs is no mean feat.” Cedric Bakambu told FIFA.com

South Africa Stun USA to reach U20 World Cup Knockouts
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

South Africa Stun USA to reach U20 World Cup Knockouts

The Amajita of South Africa have progressed to the Round of 16 following a hard-fought 2-1 victory, with standout performances from Kekana, Vilakazi, and Smythe Lowe.

The Amajita of South Africa have progressed to the Round of 16 following a hard-fought 2-1 victory, with standout performances from Kekana, Vilakazi, and Smythe Lowe.

South Africa’s U20 team (Amajita) secured their place in the knockout stage of the 2025 FIFA U20 World Cup after narrowly defeating the United States 2-1 in their final Group E match at Estadio El Teniente in Chile on Sunday.

Early excitement as Amajita bounces back from an initial setback.

The Americans started strong and took the lead when Noah Cobb converted Matthew Corcoran’s free kick. However, South Africa quickly levelled the score when Thato Sibiya’s cross deflected off Joshua Wynder and into his own goal.

Just before halftime, Shakeel April sprinted down the right wing and assisted Gomolemo Kekana, whose first-time strike put Amajita ahead 2-1, a lead they held onto.

Mfundo Vilakazi, the playmaker for Kaizer Chiefs, impressed with his creativity and vision, setting in motion the play that led to the crucial goal.

Meanwhile, Kekana, a member of the Mamelodi Sundowns first team, excelled in midfield battles with a level of composure and maturity that belied his age.

In goal, Fletcher Smythe Lowe, who plays for Estoril in Portugal, made six critical saves and confidently commanded his area, frustrating the American attackers.

South Africa's U20 team (Amajita) secured their place in the knockout stage of the 2025 FIFA U20 World Cup after narrowly defeating the United States 2-1 in their final Group E match at Estadio El Teniente in Chile on Sunday.
South Africa's U20 team (Amajita) secured their place in the knockout stage of the 2025 FIFA U20 World Cup after narrowly defeating the United States 2-1 in their final Group E match at Estadio El Teniente in Chile on Sunday.
South Africa set for crucial must-win final World Cup qualifiers
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

South Africa set for crucial must-win final World Cup qualifiers

Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos has unveiled his final squad for South Africa’s last two crucial group matches in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

South Africa is set to face Zimbabwe at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban on Friday, 10 October, followed by a clash against Rwanda at the Mbombela Stadium on Tuesday, 14 October.

The 23-man squad features eight changes from Broos’ selection for the September qualifiers. Sydney Mobbie, Zuko Mdunyelwa, Ime Okon, Siyabonga Ngezana, Luke Le Roux, Kamogelo Sebelebele, Patrick Maswanganyi, and Mduduzi Shabalala have all been replaced.

Malibongwe Khoza earns his first national team call-up after impressing at the African Nations Championship (CHAN) and establishing himself as a regular starter for Mamelodi Sundowns.

Joining him in the new squad are Thabang Matuludi, Nkosinathi Sibisi, Sphephelo Sithole, Thapelo Morena, Tshepang Moremi, and Khuliso Mudau.

Unfortunately, South Africa was docked three points by FIFA, resulting in their 2-0 victory over Lesotho in March being overturned to a 3-0 loss due to the fielding of Teboho Mokoena, who was meant to be serving a suspension for yellow cards.

As it stands, Bafana Bafana currently sit second in Group C, tied with Benin on 14 points but trailing by a single goal on goal difference.

With only two qualifiers remaining in the group stage, South Africa must win both matches to improve their goal difference or hope that Benin stumbles and drops points to secure automatic qualification.

If Bafana Bafana fall short, they will aim to clinch one of the CAF’s allocated spots in the FIFA Play-Off Tournament.

South Africa will be looking to defeat Zimbabwe for the second time in these qualifiers and to overcome Rwanda after suffering a 2-0 defeat to the Wasps away from home in November 2023.

The South Africa Squad

Goalkeepers – Ronwen Williams – Mamelodi Sundowns, Sipho Chaine – Orlando Pirates, Ricardo Goss – Siwelele FC

Defenders – Malibongwe Khoza – Mamelodi Sundowns, Khuliso Mudau – Mamelodi Sundowns, Aubrey Modiba – Mamelodi Sundowns, Khulumani Ndamane – TS Galaxy – Mbekezeli Mbokazi – Orlando Pirates, Thabang Matuludi – Polokwane City and Samukelo Kabini – Molde FK (Norway), Nkosinathi Sibisi – Orlando Pirates, Sphephelo Sithole – CD Tondela (Portugal)

Midfielders – Teboho Mokoena – Mamelodi Sundowns, Bathusi Aubaas – Mamelodi Sundowns, Thalente Mbatha – Orlando Pirates and Sphephelo Sithole

Strikers – Thapelo Morena – Mamelodi Sundowns, Sipho Mbule Orlando Pirates, Tshepang Moremi Orlando Pirates, Oswin Appolis – Orlando Pirates, Mohau Nkota – Al Ettifaq FC (Saudi Arabia), Relebohile Mofokeng – Orlando Pirates, Iqraam Rayners – Mamelodi Sundowns, Lyle Foster – Burnley FC (England)

SLFA President Babadi Kamara attends WAFU A Zonal meeting in Kinshasa
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

SLFA President Babadi Kamara attends WAFU A Zonal meeting in Kinshasa

On Saturday, October 4th, the President of the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA), Babadi Kamara, participated in a WAFU A zonal meeting held in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo.

Chairing the gathering was CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe and other football heads from West Africa. This meeting took place on the sidelines of the 47th CAF General Assembly.

The gathering brought together presidents and representatives from WAFU A member associations to discuss crucial developmental priorities for football in the region. Key topics included youth competitions, the growth of infrastructure, and strategies for enhanced collaboration among member federations.

Similar to the CECAFA held Zonal meeting in Kinshasa ahead of the CAF Ordinary General Assembly.

CAF President Dr. Motsepe met with CECAFA President Alexandre Muyenge and other CECAFA leaders. He praised CECAFA for successfully hosting the TotalEnergies CHAN Competition in August. He noted that the tournament helped revive football in East Africa and improved cooperation among governments, sponsors, and fans.

Additionally, COSAFA held a meeting in Kinshasa on Friday morning to discuss football development in the region. COSAFA countries expressed their gratitude to Dr. Motsepe for providing more financial support to Zones and Member Associations. This support allows them to organize more competitions and programs.

South Africa thrash Caledonia in U20 World Cup to keep qualification hopes alive
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

South Africa thrash Caledonia in U20 World Cup to keep qualification hopes alive

Africa U-20 champions South Africa reignited their FIFA U-20 World Cup campaign with an impressive 5-0 victory over New Caledonia in Rancagua.

After a tough loss in their opener against France, the Amajita bounced back in style, with Siviwe Magidigidi shining by scoring twice and winning a penalty.

The breakthrough came in the 25th minute when Siviwe Nkwali headed in a powerful effort from a corner kick. Just nine minutes later, Magidigidi was taken down in the box, setting up Shakeel April to calmly convert the resulting penalty and double South Africa’s lead.

Right before halftime, Magidigidi added to his impressive performance with a precise finish from the edge of the area, giving Raymond Mdaka’s side a commanding 3-0 lead at the break.

Seven minutes into the second half, Magidigidi found the net again, this time finishing from close range for his brace and effectively putting the game out of reach. Substitute Lazola Maku then capped off the rout with a beautifully executed strike from distance ten minutes before the final whistle.

Coach Raymond Mdaka welcomed the resounding victory but acknowledged that his team could have been even more ruthless in front of goal. “It was a challenging game as we absolutely needed to win and score goals,” Mdaka said.

“We feel we should have netted even more since we were wasteful with the chances created. While we played well defensively, we were a bit sluggish up front. We need to sharpen our tactical and positional discipline, and honestly, we could have scored nine or ten goals.”

This resounding win puts South Africa firmly back in the mix in Group E, where they are set to face the United States on Sunday in a crucial decider for a spot in the knockout stages.

Nigeria record first Group F win in the U20 World Cup
by Football Sierra Leone

Nigeria record first Group F win in the U20 World Cup

Nigeria scored a last-minute penalty to eliminate Saudi Arabia, South Africa netted five goals against New Caledonia, and a resolute Norway defense managed to hold Colombia to a goalless draw.

In a thrilling match in Talca between two teams eager to recover from initial losses, Nigeria clinched a 3-2 victory over Saudi Arabia with a late penalty conversion at theEstadio Fiscal de Talca on Friday. 

Nigerian goals from Nasiru Salihu and Amos Ochoche, positioned around a clever dink from Amar Al Yuhaybi, concluded an exhilarating first half with Nigeria leading 2-1.

Just six minutes into the second half, Talal Haji, who came on as a substitute at halftime, connected with a lobbed pass from Mohammed Barnawi and sent a header over Ebenezar Harcourt to equalize for the second time.

As the match seemed poised for a draw, Nigeria was awarded a late penalty, which captain Daniel Bameyi successfully converted in the fourth minute of injury time. This victory places the Flying Eagles in third position in the group, while Saudi Arabia faces elimination.

Quotes – “The players determined that they needed to give their all for the three points today, and that commitment is what drove them. Now it’s clear that we need to strive for the three points against Colombia; it’s that simple,” said Aliyu Zubair, the coach of Nigeria.

Nigeria 3-2 Saudi Arabia

Nigeria goals: Nasiru Salihu (10), Amos Ochoche (38), Daniel Bameyi (90+4) Saudi Arabia goals: Amar Al Yuhaybi (21), Talal Haji (51)

Morocco stun Brazil to reach knockout stages U20 World Cup
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Morocco stun Brazil to advance in FIFA U20 World Cup

Morocco surprised another global powerhouse, defeating Brazil 2-1 to secure their advancement in the FIFA U-20 World Cup Chile 2025. Argentina will also progress after overcoming Australia.

Earlier that day, Cuba made a comeback from two goals down against Italy to achieve their first point in the finals, while Mexico managed to earn another last-minute draw against Spain.

Morocco secured their position at the top of Group C with an impressive victory over Brazil. In a first half with few chances, the South Americans were given a prime opportunity when Luighi seemed to be fouled by Ismael Baouf in the penalty area. However, upon review, the referee changed his call and penalised the Brazilian for diving.

Morocco gained momentum in the match and took the lead when Gessime Yassine’s long cross was converted by a spectacular scissor kick from Othmane Maamma.

The Atlas Cubs extended their lead as Yassine fought for possession in midfield and set up Yassir Zabiri, who struck confidently from the left side of the box with the outside of his foot.

Although Brazil’s captain, Iago Teodoro, scored a late penalty to reduce the deficit, the day ultimately belonged to the African team.

Sunderland's Bertrand Traoré and Brentford's Dango Ouattara will be key figures as Sierra Leone host the Stallions of Burkina Faso in a crucial clash for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Traoré & Dango Ouattara named in Burkina Faso’s squad for Sierra Leone & Ethiopia

Sunderland's Bertrand Traoré and Brentford's Dango Ouattara will be key figures as Sierra Leone host the Stallions of Burkina Faso in a crucial clash for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

On Wednesday, October 8th, in the capital city of Liberia, both teams are poised to secure crucial points in their pursuit of qualification for the esteemed tournament.

This match is anticipated to be a thrilling contest, as both nations strive to strengthen their positions within Group A of the African qualifiers.

The Stallions of Burkina Faso will face a stiff contest despite being the favourites in the favorites. However, they are fully aware of the challenge posed by a resilient Sierra Leone side.

Burkina Faso will heavily rely on their seasoned players, including top talents from European clubs such as Sunderland’s Bertrand Traoré, Brentford’s Dango Ouattara, Edmond Tapsoba from Bayer Leverkusen and Issa Kaboré on loan at Wrexham, to put on a strong show in front of their home supporters.

Meanwhile, Sierra Leone is looking to pull off an upset after the 2-2 draw in June 2024 with striker Amadou Bakayoko’s equaliser in the 87th minute.

Burkina Faso, who recently played to a goalless draw against the group leaders, currently sit second in the standings with 15 points—three points ahead of Sierra Leone.
Burkina Faso, who recently played to a goalless draw against the group leaders, currently sit second in the standings with 15 points—three points ahead of Sierra Leone.
Côte d'Ivoire's Émerse Faé names strong squad for October's qualifiers
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Côte d’Ivoire’s Émerse Faé names strong squad for October’s qualifiers

Head coach of Côte d'Ivoire, Émerse Faé, has presented his team for the ninth and tenth matches of the World Cup qualifiers 2026.

In the vital 9th and 10th qualifying matches for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Côte d’Ivoire will play Seychelles and Kenya this October.

For these critical meetings, Ivorian coach Émerse Faé has named a 23-member team. The coach has recalled that Côte d’Ivoire need to win both of these last matches to guarantee their ticket to the World Cup.

Presently, leading Group F, they’ll hope to wrap up their place in the USA, Canada and Mexico next year with a win away to Seychelles before hosting Kenya this October. 

The 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification will decide the 45 teams that will join hosts Canada, Mexico, and the United States at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The 23-man Elephants squad:

Goalkeepers:

1 – Yahia Fofana, 2 – Alban Lafont, and 3 – Mohamed Koné

Defenders:

4 – Evan Ndicka, 5 – Wilfried Singo, 6 – Emmanuel Agbadou, 7 – Guéla Doué, 8 – Jean-Philippe Gbamin, 9 – Ghislain Konan, 10 – Odilon Kossounou and 11 – Christopher Opéri

Midfielders:

12 – Seko Fofana, 13 – Franck Kessié, 14 – Ibrahim Sangaré

15 – Pacôme Zouzoua

Forwards:

16 – Simon Adingra, 17 – Oumar Diakité, 18 – Amad Diallo, 19 – Yann Diomandé, 20 – Evann Guessand, 21 – Sebastien Haller, 22 – Nicolas Pépé and 23 – Bazoumana Touré