Category: Sport News

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.

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

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.