Category: Sport News

Sierra Leone and Senegal split rewards in U17 WAFU qualifying opener
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Sierra Leone and Senegal split rewards in U17 WAFU qualifying opener

Sierra Leone and Senegal played to a 1-1 draw in a thrilling Group B match at the WAFU A U17 Championship in Mali, showcasing their determination to qualify for the U17 Africa Cup of Nations.

Emerging as Sierra Leone’s hero, Musa A. Samura opened the scoring with a poised finish that sent the Sierra Leonean spectators into a state of euphoria.

Following a well-worked move that sliced open the Senegalese defence, his goal came halfway through the first half.

But as the first half wore on, Senegal, renowned for their youth-level tenacity, entered the game. Their hard work was rewarded in the second half when Souleymane C. Faye equalised the game.

The gifted forward seized a defensive error and slipped the ball past the Sierra Leonean goalie to bring the score level and ignite optimism for the West African behemoths.

The game went on at a fast clip with both teams creating opportunities, yet neither side could locate the winning goal. While Sierra Leone defended fiercely to hang onto the point, Senegal displayed more attacking intent in the last stages.

This result gives both teams all to play for in their upcoming group games. Every point counts as the best teams advance to the next round of qualifiers.

The WAFU A U17 competition in Mali keeps producing fierce and thrilling games. In the day’s other match, Guinea narrowly edged Mauritania 1-0 to go top of Group B after their opening matches.

Sierra Leone and Senegal played to a 1-1 draw in a thrilling Group B match at the WAFU A U17 Championship in Mali
Sierra Leone and Senegal played to a 1-1 draw in a thrilling Group B match at the WAFU A U17 Championship in Mali
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.
Nigeria to face Argentina at the U20 World Cup round of sixteen
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Nigeria to face Argentina in U20 World Cup round of sixteen cracker

Nigeria is set to take on Argentina following their 1-1 draw with Colombia, the same team they knocked out in the Round of 16 two years ago. Meanwhile, Colombia will go up against South Africa.

Following a spectacular 1–1 tie with Colombia in Talca, Nigeria progressed to the Round of 16 of the FIFA U-20 World Cup Chile 2025™. Securing one of the last qualification places as among the top third-placed teams on Sunday night.

Twice denied by the woodwork and defeated several times by Colombia’s outstanding goalie Jordan García, the flying eagles put on a spirited performance.
Early on, they ruled, but six minutes into the second half, Kener González broke the tie with a brilliant finish following a rapid Colombian counter.
With striker Nasiru Salihu and midfielder Amos Ochoche both nearly scoring, Aliyu Zubair’s side refused to give up and pressed for an equaliser.

Their perseverance eventually paid off four minutes from time when captain Daniel Bameyi retained his cool from the penalty spot for the second straight game. Turning calmly will get Nigeria to a critical point.

Colombia was guaranteed to head Group F as a result, while Nigeria’s four points were enough to advance them as one of the best third-place teams.

With the Flying Eagles set to meet the same adversary they knocked out at the same point of the 2023 tournament in Argentina, their upcoming conflict provides additional interest.

Nigeria coach Aliyu Zubair said, “It wasn’t easy, but we were proactive. Knowing they are good on the ball and physically strong, we sought to restrict their passing lanes, therefore giving us a somewhat edge. Our main aim was to make the next round; who we would have to face does not concern us.

Nigeria’s success emphasises how three of the four African countries—Morocco, South Africa, and Nigeria—have advanced to the knockout rounds. Growing the continent’s power in adolescent football.

The FIFA U20 Round of 16 scheduled.
The FIFA U20 Round of 16 scheduled.
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.

Sierra Leone's Augustus Kargbo nets first goal of the Season in Blackburn's draw
by FSL News

Augustus Kargbo nets first goal of the Season in Blackburn’s draw

Sierra Leone's Augustis Kargbo helped Blackburn Rovers scored late to secure a draw against the high-flying Stoke City at Ewood Park on Saturday.

Million Manhoef opened the scoring early in the second half as the Potters dominated the match.

However, they were unable to find a second goal, and Augustus Kargbo equalized with just eight minutes left. Mark Robins’ team remains in third place in the Championship standings, while Blackburn halted a streak of two consecutive defeats.

Stoke nearly took an early lead within 10 seconds when Sorba Thomas attempted a volley from the edge of the box, prompting Balasz Toth to make a strong save. Blackburn then missed two significant opportunities before halftime.

Todd Cantwell shot wide, and Andre Gudjohnsen failed to convert Ryoya Morishita’s cross from close range. Just before the end of the first half, Manhoef had a chance to score but could not test goalkeeper Toth with his low shot.

Nevertheless, the Dutchman succeeded four minutes into the second half, as his shot was deflected in after connecting with Thomas’ well-placed through-ball. Five minutes later, Ryan Alebiosu prevented Thomas from scoring as the striker broke free on goal.

The defender made a perfectly timed tackle, yet had Thomas looked up, he would have seen Manhoef open for a tap-in. Cantwell emerged as Blackburn’s main threat, steadily gaining more influence in the game and testing keeper Viktor Johansson with a long-range strike.

Johansson was quick to deny substitute Dion De Neve from a narrow angle 13 minutes before the end, while Rovers’ Sondre Tronstad shot wide.

Toth thwarted Manhoef again as the visitors sought to secure their victory, and they were punished shortly thereafter by Kargbo’s goal from Cantwell’s cross. Johansson was again called into action, stopping the Sierra Leone striker from getting a second goal at the back post.

Sierra Leone to face Senegal in U17 AFCON Qualifiers Opener in Mali
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Sierra Leone to face Senegal in U17 AFCON qualifying opener in Mali

Against Senegal in Group B, Sierra Leone's U17 team will start their 2025 TotalEnergies U17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying run on October 6th in Mali.

The WAFU Zone A qualifiers will take place from October 5-18, 2025. The young Stars face a tough challenge against Senegal, known for their strong youth football program and recent success.

In Group A, Mali and Liberia will officially kick off the qualifiers on Sunday, October 5th, followed by The Gambia and Guinea-Bissau.

Sierra Leone’s technical crew is still upbeat despite the difficult start. Head coach Mohamed Konneh will be hoping they start well to make a statement on the continental scene.

The squad consists of promising academy players and emerging local talent. The 2025 U17 AFCON finals will showcase the best young teams in Africa and serve as a qualifying event.

The Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) prioritizes youth development, seeing this tournament as key for future national team stars.

Fans are hopeful the U17 team will proudly represent Sierra Leone as they face Senegal, followed by Mauritania and Guinea in Group B for a chance to advance.

U17 qualifying scheduled for Mali 2025
U17 qualifying scheduled for Mali 2025
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.