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South Africa and Nigeria suffer opening U20 World Cup defeats

South Africa and Nigeria suffer opening U20 World Cup defeats

Both African teams competing in Monday's FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile, South Africa and Nigeria, faced defeats in their opening matches against France and Norway, respectively, in Groups E and F.

France secured full points in their match against South Africa with a late goal. The competition in Group F was tightly contested, with Norway narrowly defeating Nigeria in a challenging match.

In Group E, A late goal from Lucas Michal secured a 2-1 victory for France over South Africa in Rancagua. France started strong, with Tadjidine Mmadi missing a shot wide and Mayssam Benama hitting the post, before Anthony Bermont scored the winning goal 25 minutes in.

However, their lead did not last long, as Kutlwano Letlhaku skillfully manoeuvred into the French penalty area and was fouled by Elyaz Zidane, the youngest son of legendary French player Zinedine Zidane. Jody Ahshene confidently converted the penalty kick into the net.

The decisive goal came in the 80th minute, when Michal turned at the edge of the box, drove inward, and fired a powerful shot into the bottom right corner.

In the match between Nigeria and Norway, an early penalty was sufficient for Norway to secure a 1-0 win against Nigeria in their first match in Talca.

Nigeria quickly grabbed Norway’s attention when Kparobo Arierhi hit the crossbar within three minutes. Nevertheless, it was Norway that struck first after a video review confirmed a handball offence in the Nigerian area, allowing Rasmus Holten to score from the penalty spot.

A dazzling run from Luca Hoyland set Norway up for a second goal, but Gustav Nyheim failed to convert the cross right in front of the net.

Nigeria applied pressure in their quest for an equaliser, and Tahir Maigana felt frustrated when his shot hit the post shortly after the hour mark. Ultimately, Norway managed to withstand Nigeria’s late surge to claim the valuable points.

African Champions South Africa ready for U20 opener against France

African Champions South Africa ready for U20 opener against France

Raymond Mdaka’s team is eager to continue their historic journey following their impressive victory in the U-20 AFCON earlier this year.

Tonight, they face a European powerhouse France at 17:00 hrs local time, at the Estadio El Teniente stadium in Chile.

Arriving in Chile as continental champions, South Africa secured their first-ever U-20 AFCON title with a thrilling win over Morocco.

It was in May that they lifted the CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations trophy, thanks to a stunning goal from Gomolemo Kekana that clinched the victory in the Cairo final.

This triumph not only crowned them champions but also earned Mdaka’s squad a place in the FIFA U-20 World Cup Chile 2025™, marking their return to this prestigious tournament for the first time since 2019 and only their fifth overall appearance.

Their opponent – France will compete in the FIFA U-20 World Cup™ for the fourth time in a row, marking the first time in their history that they have achieved this. Only Argentina, the USA, and New Zealand have longer current streaks of qualifications for the tournament at Chile 2025.

South Africa Group E fixtures

29 September France-South Africa (17:00 local time, Estadio El Teniente)

2 October South Africa-New Caledonia (20:00 local time, Estadio El Teniente)

5 October South Africa-USA (17:00 local time, Estadio El Teniente)

Nigeria set for Norway cracker in FIFA U20 World Cup opener

Nigeria set for Norway cracker in FIFA U20 World Cup opener  

The FIFA U20 World Cup will commence with an exciting match as Nigeria's Flying Eagles take on Norway's Young Vikings at the Estadio Fiscal de Talca in Chile on Monday. Kickoff time 21:00 WAT.

Both squads understand the importance of a robust opening game, setting the stage for a thrilling encounter filled with skill and intensity beneath the Chilean night sky.

Nigeria enters the tournament with a rich history, marking their 14th appearance and featuring two runner-up finishes, one in 1989 and another in 2005.

Guided by coach Aliyu Zubair, the Flying Eagles blend domestic talent with stars from Europe, aiming to sharpen their offensive play and make a significant impact.

Conversely, Norway, participating in their fourth U20 World Cup, aims to overcome their previous group-stage challenges.

Under the leadership of coach Bjorn Johansen, the Young Vikings bring a strong sense of determination and resilience, looking to make their mark with an impressive showing.

Nigeria’s roster features promising young talent, including goalkeepers Ebenezer Harcourt, Clinton Ezekiel, and Rufa’i Abubakar for defensive stability.

Defenders Ocheche Amos Onyejefu and Daniel Bameyi add international experience, while midfielders Daniel Daga and Israel Ayuma contribute strength and creativity.

In attack, the Flying Eagles showcase offensive power with Achichi Oseer, Kparobo Arierhi, and Sani Suleman.

Nigeria’s Group F fixtures

29 September Norway-Nigeria (17:00 local time, Estadio Fiscal)

2 October Nigeria-Saudi Arabia (20:00 local time, Estadio Fiscal)

5 October Nigeria-Colombia (20:00 local time, Estadio Fiscal)

US Monastir cruise past East End Lions to progress as Police FC advance

US Monastir cruise past East End Lions to progress as Police FC advance

Tunisian side US Monastir cruised past Sierra Leone’s East End Lions with a resounding 3-1 victory at the Taieb Mhiri Stadium, wrapping up a commanding 7-1 aggregate win over two legs.

The Tunisians wasted no time, scoring twice within the first seven minutes through Naude Zeguei and Haj Ali Moez, effectively sealing their fate.

Although Ali Conteh gave East End Lions a glimmer of hope early in the second half, an own goal by Alpha Kamara in the 71st minute made sure of Monastir’s comfortable progression.

With their dominant performance across both legs, the North Africans emerge as early favorites in the tournament.

Simba SC from Tanzania and Kenya Police FC secured their spots in the Second Preliminary Round of the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League, albeit through different routes.

Simba drew 1–1 against Gaborone United in Dar es Salaam, progressing with a 2–1 aggregate score. Jean Carlos Ahoua’s goal put Simba ahead before Lebogang Ditsele equalized for Gaborone with a penalty, but they couldn’t find a winner.

Kenya Police FC faced a tough challenge, losing 2–0 at home to Mogadishu City. However, their 3–1 first-leg victory in Somalia meant they advanced on away goals despite the tie ending 3–3.

In Eswatini, Nsingizini Hotspurs defeated Zimbabwe’s Simba Bhora 4–2 on penalties after a 1–0 win in the second leg leveled the tie at 1–1 on aggregate. Shongwe Nkosingiphile’s last-minute goal forced penalties, where Hotspurs held their nerve to advance.

Additionally, Nigeria’s Rivers United secured a 1-0 victory over Aigles du Congo, while Burkina Faso’s Rahimo FC advanced past AS Mangasport on penalties after a goalless draw over two legs.

Defeat for Egypt against Japan in FIFA U20 World Cup Opener

Defeat for Egypt against Japan in FIFA U20 World Cup opener

Egypt's U20 national team kicked off their FIFA U20 World Cup campaign in Chile with a disappointing 2-0 loss to Japan early at Estadio Nacional Julio Martínez Prádanos on Saturday 27 September.

A penalty by Rion Ichihara and a expertly executed shot by Hisatsugu Ishii secured a victory for Japan against Egypt in Santiago.

Japan’s opener  – Japan took the lead in the 29th minute when defender Rion Ichihara from RB Leipzig converted a penalty kick.

Shortly after halftime, Shonan Bellmare striker Hisatsugu Ishii extended Japan’s lead with a powerful finish, assisted by Shunsuke Saito, which the Egyptian goalkeeper couldn’t stop.

Group A Outlook – Egypt now faces a tough road ahead in Group A, which also features hosts Chile and New Zealand. Chile is set to meet New Zealand in a match that could significantly influence the group standings.

Group A

Japan 2-0 Egypt

Japan goals: Rion Ichihara pen (29), Hisatsugu Ishii (48)

Egypt’s U-20s take on Japan in FIFA U-20 World Cup opener in Chile

Egypt take on Japan in FIFA U-20 World Cup opener in Chile

The opening matches of the 24th U-20 World Cup will feature Japan against Egypt, the Republic against Ukraine, Chile against New Zealand, and Paraguay against Panama.

Egypt’s Young Pharaohs kick off their campaign at Estadio Nacional Julio Martínez Prádanos this evening as they build from their impressive top-four finish at the U-20 AFCON held in Cairo last May.

This marks their first appearance at the World Cup since 2013 and their ninth outing overall, with a notable highlight being their bronze medal finish in 2001.

In Group A, Egypt faces tough competition from hosts Chile, Japan, and New Zealand. They will open their campaign against Japan, followed by a match with New Zealand, and a crucial showdown against Chile in Santiago.

Egypt qualified for the tournament with a strong performance in the TotalEnergies U20 AFCON, where coach Osama Nabih’s side reached the semi-finals, describing it as a “North African derby” and an “early continental final.”

Fixtures – Saturday 27 September

Japan v Egypt

Korea Republic v Ukraine
Chile v New Zealand
Paraguay v Panama
Sierra Leone-born Jocelyn Janneh named in Guinea's World Cup qualifers squad

Sierra Leone-born Jocelyn Janneh receives first call-up from Guinea

Jocelyn Janneh from Sporting Club di Bastia and two new names expected to make the International debut for Guinea October 9, followed by Botswana in Casablanca on October 14.

Jocelyn Janneh from SC Bastia and two new names are expected to make their International debut for Guinea on October 9, followed by Botswana in Casablanca on October 14.

Head coach Paulo Duarte has called up 25 players to face Mozambique in Maputo on October 9, followed by Botswana in Casablanca on October 14.

The two matches are the final rounds of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers as he retained a strong core with familiar faces such as Serhou Guirassy, Mouctar Diakhaby, Morlaye Sylla, and Issiaga Sylla.

The Guineans are fourth in Group G on 11 points and are hoping to win these last two matches in the hope of finishing among the four best second-placed teams in the different groups to play in the play-offs.

Head coach Paulo Duarte has called up 25 players to face Mozambique in Maputo on October 9, followed by Botswana in Casablanca on October 14.
Head coach Paulo Duarte has called up 25 players to face Mozambique in Maputo on October 9, followed by Botswana in Casablanca on October 14.
Algerian star trains after joining Brazilian outfit Santos FC

Algerian star Billal Brahimi trains after joining Brazilian outfit Santos

Algerian international Billal Brahimi has completed his first training session with Santos FC, one of Brazil's most renowned football clubs.

The talented winger has made the move to Santos after inking a contract that will run until the end of 2026, marking his first venture outside of Europe.

This transfer comes on the heels of Brahimi mutually terminating his contract with French Ligue 1 club OGC Nice on September 1, which allowed him to become a free agent.

Having previously played for clubs such as Middlesbrough, Brest, Sint-Truiden, Le Mans, and Angers, Brahimi has now found a new chapter in Brazil, where he will team up with Santos superstar Neymar.

“The addition of Brahimi brings international experience to Santos for the 2025 season,” read a club statement.

At the age of 25, the French-born, naturalised Algerian joins Peixão after his tenure with Nice, in France.

While born in France, Brahimi holds both French and Algerian nationalities and represented the French under-19 national team in 2018.

In May 2022, he received a call-up to the Algeria national team for two qualifying matches for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations against Uganda and Tanzania.

African champions Pyramids win first FIFA Intercontinental Cup

African champions Pyramids win first FIFA Intercontinental Cup

African champions Pyramids FC of Egypt secured their inaugural title in a FIFA tournament with a decisive 3-1 win over Al Ahli from Saudi Arabia at the King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah on Tuesday night.

In an impressive display of African club football, Fiston Mayele’s hat-trick led Pyramids to victory in the FIFA African-Asian-Pacific Cup, keeping them on track for the 2025 FIFA Intercontinental Cup.

The Cairo team, fresh off their TotalEnergies CAF Champions League win, defeated Auckland City 3-0 to reach this event.

Despite Al Ahli’s strong challenge and a supportive crowd in Jeddah, Pyramids controlled the key moments. Mayele opened the scoring in the 21st minute, but Al Ahli equalised just before halftime with a penalty from Ivan Toney.

Pyramids regrouped after the break, and Mayele scored again in the 71st minute before completing his hat-trick just four minutes later, securing the cup for the African champions.

The DR Congo forward’s finishing was crucial as Pyramids advanced to the FIFA Challenger Cup with a victory on December 13.

They will face the winner of the FIFA Derby of the Americas between Cruz Azul and the CONMEBOL Libertadores champions. The Challenger Cup winner will then meet UEFA Champions League winners Paris Saint-Germain in the Intercontinental Cup final on December 17.

This victory is historic for Pyramids and African club football, marking a continental champion’s opportunity to win a FIFA trophy and compete for a global title.

A Fiston Mayele hatrick helped Pyramids defeat Saudi's Al-Ahli in the FIFA African–Asian–Pacific Cup
A Fiston Mayele hatrick helped Pyramids defeat Saudi's Al-Ahli in the FIFA African–Asian–Pacific Cup
Sierra Leone clubs to benefit from new FIFA Programme

Sierra Leone clubs to benefit from new FIFA Programme

For the first time, the program will directly reward all clubs that release players for the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers. Sierra Leone Premier League clubs will benefit from this initiative launched by the world governing body.

For the first time, the program will directly reward all clubs that release players for the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers. Sierra Leone Premier League clubs will benefit from this initiative launched by the world governing body.

A total of USD 355 million has been allocated for club football, representing a nearly 70% increase compared to the previous edition. This funding is part of the renewed memorandum of understanding between FIFA and the European Club Association.

More clubs than ever are set to benefit from the FIFA World Cup™, as FIFA gears up to implement an enhanced edition of the FIFA Club Benefits Programme (CBP) for the 2026 edition of its flagship men’s competition.

As per the renewed memorandum of understanding signed by FIFA and the European Club Association (ECA) in March 2023, clubs who release players for the FIFA World Cup 26™ will benefit from USD 355 million overall.

For the first time since its inception, the CBP distribution principles have been adjusted to now allow every club whose players directly feature either in the FIFA World Cup 26™ qualifiers or the final tournament to receive a share of the solidarity fund.  

This new approach means that any club that releases a player for a FIFA World Cup 26 qualifier will now be directly compensated for said release, irrespective of whether the player plays at the final tournament, an additional step to increase solidarity aimed at providing a fairer and more inclusive redistribution across global club football.