Category: Sport News

Osimhen and Lookman score as Nigeria cruise into quarter-finals
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Osimhen and Lookman help Nigeria cruise to AFCON quarter-finals

Victor Osimhen scored two goals as Nigeria easily defeated Mozambique 4-0 in the Africa Cup of Nations on Monday. This win took Nigeria to the quarter-finals.

Ademola Lookman, a former African footballer of the year like Osimhen, scored the first goal after 20 minutes. He also assisted in the other three goals. Osimhen began the match without his usual mask but put it on before scoring his second goal in the 25th minute. He scored again just after halftime, while Akor Adams rounded off the win.

This 4-0 victory is the largest margin in an AFCON knockout match since Egypt defeated Algeria 4-0 in the semi-finals in 2010. After missing the World Cup, Nigeria aims to continue their journey, facing either Algeria or the Democratic Republic of Congo in the quarter-finals on Saturday.

Mozambique reached the knockout stage for the first time after qualifying as one of the best third-placed teams in the group stage. They were outmatched by a strong Nigerian team that featured several regular starters, as coach Eric Chelle rotated his lineup in their previous 3-1 victory against Uganda.

Lookman, who had scored in the win against Tunisia, gave Nigeria the lead as the first half approached. Alex Iwobi passed the ball to Adams on the left side of the box, who then set up Lookman to score.

Lookman then assisted Osimhen with a cross in the 25th minute, allowing Osimhen to score easily. Osimhen was unharmed after a challenge where a Mozambique player hit him in the stomach.

Lookman’s cross in the 47th minute was finished by Osimhen, making it 3-0 and ending any chance of a Mozambique comeback. After going without scoring in seven AFCON matches, Osimhen now has three goals in this tournament.

Lookman wasn’t done yet; he assisted Adams with about 30 minutes to go, and Adams scored with a powerful shot into the net.

Mohamed Salah nets extra-time goal to help Egypt beat Benin
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Mohamed Salah nets extra-time goal to help Egypt beat Benin

Egypt's football team reached the quarter-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations by defeating Benin 3-1 after extra time with goals from .Marwan Attia Fahim Ghallab, Yasser Ibrahim Ahmed El Hanafi and Mohamed Salah, respectively.

The match took place in Agadir, Morocco. Marwan Atteya and Yasser Ibrahim scored their first international goals, while Mohamed Salah added his 10th goal in the tournament.

Atteya scored the first goal in the 69th minute. Benin’s Jodel Dossou equalised in the 83rd minute, forcing the game into extra time. In the extra period, Atteya assisted Ibrahim’s header in the 97th minute, putting Egypt back in the lead. Salah sealed the victory with a goal in the second half of extra time.

Unlike their previous match against Angola, where they fielded a less experienced team, Egypt started with their top players. Winger Ibrahim Adel replaced Ahmed “Zizo” Sayed in the lineup.

Egypt showed their attacking strength early on. Salah set up Omar Marmoush, but Marmoush’s shot was saved by Benin’s goalkeeper, Marcel Dandjinou, in the seventh minute. Marmoush had another chance in the 20th minute, but a defender cleared it.

Benin also created chances, but Egypt’s defence and goalkeeper kept them at bay. Both teams made substitutions in the first half. Benin’s Aiyegun Tosin left due to a muscle injury, while Egypt’s Mohamed Hamdy was stretchered off with a knee injury just before halftime, and Ahmed Fatouh came on for him.

Egypt missed a good chance early in the second half when Rami Rabia’s close-range shot went wide after deflections. Just before the 60-minute mark, Egypt made two changes: Emam Ashour replaced Ibrahim Adel, and Ahmed “Zizo” Sayed came on for the injured Mahmoud “Trezeguet” Hassan. Mohamed El-Shennawy kept the score level by saving a close shot from Dossou.

Atteya finally scored in the 69th minute after a one-two with Salah and Mohamed Hany, marking his first goal in 29 international matches. Benin responded by pushing for an equaliser and got one when Dossou followed up a deflected shot from Fatouh in the 83rd minute.

Salah had a chance to win the game in regular time, but his shot was saved. Seven minutes of added time passed without a winner. In extra time, Ibrahim’s header in the first minutes put Egypt back in front, his first goal in 12 matches. Benin tried to equalise again but couldn’t break through Egypt’s solid defence. Salah finished off the game with a lob goal in the final minutes after being assisted by Zizo.

Egypt will face either the Ivory Coast or Burkina Faso in the quarter-finals on Friday.

Tunisia axe Sami Trabelsi after Cup of Nations exit
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Tunisia have axed Sami Trabelsi after their Cup of Nations exit

Tunisia's coach, Sami Trabelsi, has been dismissed just a day after the team suffered a defeat against Mali in the last 16 of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon).

Despite facing only 10 men for over 90 minutes in a match that extended into extra time, the 2004 champions were unable to secure a victory.

Early in the game, Mali’s Woyo Coulibaly received a red card, giving Tunisia an advantage, but they went ahead late, taking the lead in the 88th minute.

Unfortunately, they conceded a penalty in the sixth minute of stoppage time and ultimately faltered during the ensuing shootout.

The Tunisian Football Federation announced on social media that they had “decided to part ways by mutual consent” with the national team’s coaching staff.

Trabelsi, 57, had returned for a second spell in charge of the Carthage Eagles last February after resigning in 2013, following a disappointing early exit from Afcon. In the recent tournament in Morocco, Tunisia finished second in Group C, starting with a 3-1 victory over Uganda, but later lost 3-2 to Nigeria and drew 1-1 with Tanzania.

Reflecting on their exit against Mali, Trabelsi expressed that it brought “great disappointment and pain,” acknowledging that as coach, he definitely bore the responsibility for the team’s performance.

Cameroon saw off South Africa to set date with Morocco in quarter-finals
by Football Sierra Leone

Cameroon saw off South Africa to set date with Morocco in quarter-finals

Cameroon faced South Africa in a tense match but managed to secure a 2–1 victory in Rabat. This win means Cameroon moves on to the quarter-finals of the tournament to face host Morocco on Friday.

For the first 30 minutes, South Africa was the stronger team. They pressed hard, created chances, and forced Cameroon’s goalkeeper, Epassy, to make important saves. However, Cameroon stayed composed. In the 33rd minute, Tchamadeu scored the first goal, changing the game.

Feeling energised, Cameroon took charge of the match. Just after halftime, Kofane scored again in the 47th minute with a diving header. This put Cameroon up 2–0, a tough blow for South Africa.

Despite the score, South Africa kept pushing. Makgopa scored in the 87th minute, bringing hope to his team. The crowd in Rabat held their breath as Epassy faced more shots, but he held firm, and Cameroon clung to their lead until the final whistle.

With this win, Cameroon goes on to play Morocco in the quarter-finals on Friday at the Stade Moulay Abdellah in Rabat.

Carlos Baleba – Man of the Match, “We are set to face Morocco, a strong team. We’ve been performing well, and we need to stay calm and keep this up. Our positive mindset is key to our strength.”

Hugo Broos – South Africa Head Coach, “Our team didn’t deserve to lose. This isn’t the result we wanted, but we have to accept it and focus on our future goals, especially the World Cup.”

David Pagou – Cameroon Coach, “We are excited about the win. We’ve faced a tough schedule, but we’ve succeeded. We’re committed to improving and working together, which is essential for our team’s progress.”

Brahim Diaz helps Morocco reach AFCON 2025 quarter-finals
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Brahim Diaz helps Morocco reach AFCON 2025 quarter-finals

Morocco reached the quarter-finals of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations 2025 by defeating Tanzania 1–0 in Rabat on Sunday. Brahim Diaz scored the only goal in the second half.

The match was challenging for the hosts, who controlled the game but struggled to create clear scoring chances against a strong Tanzanian defence.

Morocco, captained by Achraf Hakimi, started strong but struggled to score against a well-defending Tanzania. A goal from Ismail Saibari in the 24th minute was ruled offside by VAR, leaving the first half goalless.

After halftime, Morocco increased their urgency, with key moments like Diaz forcing a corner and El Khannouss shooting over the bar. Tanzania almost took the lead in the 56th minute with a missed opportunity from Feisal Toto.

Morocco finally broke the deadlock in the 63rd minute when Diaz scored from a tight angle, marking his fourth goal of the tournament and leading Morocco to a 1-0 victory. They advance to the quarter-finals, where they’ll face the winner of South Africa vs. Cameroon.

Diaz, named Man of the Match, acknowledged the challenge, while Tanzania’s coach, Miguel Ángel Gamondi, expressed pride in his team’s performance.

Morocco’s head coach, Walid Regragui, praised the second-half effort and noted the injury to key player Azzedine Ounahi, emphasizing the team’s determination to succeed.

10-man Mali knock-out Tunisia in penalty shootout
by FSL News

10-man Mali advance after penalty shootout win over Tunisia

Mali defeated Tunisia in a penalty shootout 3-2 after a 1-1 draw in their Round of 16 match at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, despite being reduced to ten men within the first thirty minutes.

The thrilling clash took place on Saturday at the Stade Mohammed V in Casablanca, Morocco, with El Bilal Touré stepping up to convert the decisive penalty, securing a hard-fought victory for Les Aigles.

Both sides approached the match with caution, resulting in limited scoring opportunities. Early on, Mali’s chances took a hit when right back Woyo Coulibaly was shown a red card for a late challenge on Hannibal Mejbri, leaving his team in a precarious position.

Tunisia struggled to find their rhythm against a determined Malian side, lacking the attacking flair to capitalise on its opportunities. Despite their physical play, Tunisia missed several set pieces, while Mali threatened on the counter-attack.

In the 89th minute, Tunisia found inspiration when Elias Saad crossed to substitute Firas Chaouat, who scored with a flicked header, seemingly securing a quarterfinal spot. However, a late penalty for Mali, converted by Sinayoko, levelled the score and sent the match into extra time.

The deadlock continued through extra time, leading to a penalty shootout. Tunisia initially took the lead, but missed penalties from Bissouma and Abdi proved costly. Diarra’s save against Ben Romdhane opened the door for Touré, who scored the winning penalty for Mali.

Mali advances to face Senegal in the quarterfinals on January 9 in Tangier, following Senegal’s earlier win over Sudan.

Senegal through to AFCON quarter-final after defeating Sudan
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Senegal through to AFCON quarter-finals after defeating Sudan

Senegal staged a remarkable comeback to secure their place in the quarter-finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, triumphing over Sudan with a 3-1 victory at the Grande de Tanger stadium on Saturday.

The match got off to a surprising start, with Sudan taking the lead just six minutes into the game. Aamir Abdallah showcased his striking prowess, netting a well-placed shot that caught the Senegalese defence off guard and sent their supporters into a frenzy.

For the first 25 minutes, Sudan appeared firmly in control, showing confidence and creating opportunities that had the Senegalese side on the defensive.

However, the tide began to turn in the 29th minute when Pape Gueye, a midfielder from Villarreal, found the back of the net, levelling the score and shifting the momentum in favour of Senegal.

He struck again just before halftime in the 45th minute, leaving the Sudanese players shaken and struggling to regain their composure.

As the second half unfolded, Senegal continued to assert their dominance, with Ibrahim Mbaye adding a third goal in a decisive moment, solidifying the Senegalese lead and effectively putting the match beyond Sudan’s reach.

In the final stages of the match, despite being three goals up with just five minutes remaining, the Senegalese team remained aggressive and tenacious, fighting for every ball with determination.

This perseverance was epitomised moments later when Pape Gueye was substituted off for Pathe Ciss after preparing to take a corner from the left side.

Sullay Kaikai shortlisted for Cambridge Player of the Month
by Football Sierra Leone

Sullay Kaikai shortlisted for Cambridge Player of the Month

Sierra Leone's Sullay Kaikai is in the running for the latest December 2025 Player of the Month award for Cambridge United.

Kaikai has been a crucial player for the League Two club, contributing vital goals and assists in recent matches. As a result, he has been shortlisted for this prestigious honour.

Supporters can now cast their votes for the Girton Golf Club Player of the Month for December 2025. United had another impressive month, remaining unbeaten in the league and advancing in the FA Cup with a solid win over Stockport.

This month’s nominees include Sullay Kaikai, Mamadou Jobe, James Gibbons, and George Hoddle.

Player of the Month sponsors, Girton Golf Club, are offering 10% off membership to Season Ticket Holders and Abbey Access members.

Girton Golf Club is within easy reach of Huntingdon Road as well as the A14 and M11. Founded in 1936, they have a beautiful and challenging 18-hole parkland course, a modern clubhouse and extensive practice and coaching facilities. 

Girton Golf Club is a Community Amateur Sports Club, owned by the members, and visitors are welcome. Whether you’re a beginner just picking up the sport or a seasoned player looking to hone your skills, Girton Golf Club caters to all.

Bradford City eye a loan move for Crystal Palace attacker Hindolo Mustapha
by FSL News

Bradford City eye a loan move for Crystal Palace attacker Hindolo Mustapha

Bradford City, currently in pursuit of promotion from League One, is one of several clubs vying for the services of the 19-year-old player following the recent termination of his loan at FC Nürnberg at the start of December.

The player received multiple offers for his first senior loan but chose to join German side FC Nürnberg in the 2. Bundesliga, seeking higher competition. However, after not meeting the expectations of manager Miroslav Klose, he made only two appearances for their reserve team.

Crystal Palace is open to loaning him again for more senior experience, preferably within England, for his development. Walsall in League Two has expressed ongoing interest, and Portsmouth manager John Mousinho has scouted him during several matches.

The player is contracted with Crystal Palace until 2028, having made 29 appearances for the Under-21 team last season, scoring 11 goals and providing seven assists.

The youngster is a versatile forward and was named Palace’s Under-21 Player of the Season, nominated for the Premier League 2 Player of the Season award.

Internationally, he has represented Sierra Leone three times and trained with Crystal Palace’s first team during their mid-season camp in Marbella last year.

Tunisia and Mali set for a cracking AFCON knockout contest
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Tunisia and Mali set for a cracking AFCON knockout contest

Brave Mali set to go up against North African opposition Tunisia in the round of 16 at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, taking place at Mohamed V Stadium in Casablanca on Saturday.

Mali advanced to the knockout phase by finishing second in Group A, securing two draws against Zambia and Morocco, and a goalless draw against Comoros. Despite being unbeaten, they didn’t achieve any victories in the group.

In their last six competitive matches, Mali has shown tough composure, with two wins and four draws. Historically, they are consistent AFCON performers, frequently reaching the knockout stages, though they have yet to win the tournament.

Tunisia reached the round of 16 by finishing second in Group C, starting with a 3-1 victory over Uganda, followed by a loss to Nigeria and a draw with Tanzania. Their group stage performance highlighted both attacking potential and defensive vulnerabilities.

Tunisia’s depth of experience in the Africa Cup of Nations, including their previous title in 2004, gives them an advantage as they approach the knockout stage of football.

Both teams have faced each other 13 times since 1994, with Tunisia winning six matches, Mali four, and three ending in draws. Recent meetings have been closely contested.

Mali’s head coach, Tom Saintfiet, made four changes to the lineup that drew with Morocco. However, they will be without key midfielder Amadou Haidara, who is suspended following a red card in their last match. There is positive news regarding injuries, as Sikou Niakate is back in training.

Tunisia’s head coach, Sami Trabelsi, has a nearly full-strength squad, with no suspensions reported. The main concern is Mohamed Ali Ben Romdhane, who suffered a knee injury, but initial assessments suggest it is not serious. Additionally, Elias Achouri is expected to return to full fitness soon after a minor injury.

Mali’s possible starting lineup:

Diarra; W. Coulibaly, Diaby, O. Camara, Gassama; Dieng, Doumbia, L. Coulibaly, Sangare, Bissouma; Sinayoko

Tunisia’s possible starting lineup:

Dahmen; Abdi, Talbi, Bronn, Valery; Skhiri, Gharbi, Mejbri; Achouri, Tounekti, Mastouri

AFCON 2025 Round of 16 fixtures – Saturday, 3 January 2026 
  • Mali vs Tunisia 20h00 local time / 19h00 GMT
    Stade Mohammed V, Casablanca