Category: Sport News

Esperance knocked out Al Ahly in Cairo after a thriller to reach semis
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Esperance knock out Al Ahly in Cairo after a thriller to reach semis

Esperance Sportive de Tunis delivered a stunning performance in Cairo, defeating Al Ahly 3-2 on the night and securing a 4-2 aggregate win to advance to the semi-finals of the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League.

After narrowly winning the first leg 1-0 in Rades, the Tunisian giants rallied from an early setback to clinch a late winner, silencing the Cairo International Stadium and dashing the hopes of Africa’s most decorated club.

Backed by a passionate crowd, Al Ahly opened the match with intensity. Their early efforts paid off in the 10th minute when Mahmoud Hassan “Trezeguet” capitalised on defensive confusion to score, levelling the aggregate tie.

Although Al Ahly continued to create chances and control much of the first half, Esperance goalkeeper Bechir Ben Said made crucial saves, leaving the score at 1-0 at halftime.

The second half saw a dramatic shift in momentum as Esperance returned with renewed energy. Theyequalisedd in the 68th minute with a powerful shot from Florian Danho, regaining the aggregate lead. Soon after, a defensive error led to a penalty converted by Mohamed Amine Tougai, putting Esperance ahead 2-1.

Al Ahly fought back with urgency, and an own goal in the 84th minute levelled the match at 2-2, reigniting hope among home fans. As pressure mounted, it was Esperance who struck the final blow. In stoppage time, Hamza Jelassi headed the winning goal in the 94th minute, completing a remarkable turnaround despite his earlier own goal.

The final whistle confirmed Esperance’s semi-final spot, where they will face the winner of Mamelodi Sundowns and Stade Malien. For Al Ahly, this loss brought a disappointing end to their campaign, having dominated portions of both legs.

Meanwhile, Esperance’s determined display underscores their status as serious title contenders and adds another memorable chapter to African club football history.

Idriss Kanu on target as MK Dons suffer a home defeat to Barnet
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Idris Kanu on target as MK Dons suffer a home defeat to Barnet

Sierra Leone’s Idriss Kanu was on target as MK Dons suffered their first League Two defeat since New Year’s Day after Barnet rallied from behind to secure an away victory.

Jon Mellish initially put the Dons ahead, but goals from Danny Collinge, Kabongo Tshimanga, and Idris Kanu saw the Bees earn their first win in four matches.

The home team took the lead in the seventh minute when goalkeeper Cieran Slicker dropped a cross from Aaron Nemane, allowing Mellish to tap the ball into an unguarded net.

Barnet nearly equalised soon after, with Craig MacGillivray turning away efforts from Ryan Glover and Adam Senior. However, they found the back of the net in first-half stoppage time when Collinge nodded in Mark Shelton’s corner.

Ex-Dons striker Tshimanga put Barnet in front just three minutes into the second half, scoring with a deflected shot from the edge of the box that left MacGillivray with no chance.

The visitors extended their lead in the 57th minute, as Kanu capitalised on a rushed clearance to fire home.

MK Dons’ frustrations grew when they missed a penalty after Aaron Collins was brought down in the box; Slicker saved the spot-kick taken by Rushian Hepburn-Murphy, compounding the home side’s disappointment.

Sierra Leone edge Ethiopia in Group A World Cup qualifier
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Sierra Leone named a strong squad for FIFA Series in Azerbaijan

A total of nineteen foreign-based players have been selected for Sierra Leone’s FIFA Series matches this month, which include friendly encounters against Oman and Azerbaijan set to take place in Baku on March 27 and 30.

Notable players in the squad include Crystal Palace’s rising star Hindolo Mustapha, currently on loan to West Brom, Mustapha Bundu from German side Hannover, inform striker Daniel Kanu, who has recorded sixteen goals across thirty-eight for Walsall so far this season, Sullay Kaikai from Cambridge United, Juma Bah of Nice, and Amadou Bakayoko, who is competing in the J2 League. These strong selections highlight the promising talent available for the upcoming matches.

The upcoming friendly matches will feature an exciting group stage with host nations Azerbaijan, Sierra Leone, Oman, and Saint Lucia, delighting fans in Azerbaijan.

On March 27, Sierra Leone will take on Oman in a critical match that will decide which team moves forward to the finals. The winners of this opening clash will face off on March 30 for the championship, promising an electrifying finish to the tournament.

Meanwhile, the teams that don’t secure victory in their first matches will battle it out for third place, adding an extra layer of competition. This tournament aims to showcase emerging talents while promoting international camaraderie.

All FIFA Series 2026 matches will be broadcast worldwide, ensuring that fans from every corner of the globe can tune in and support their national teams, while also shining a spotlight on the nations involved.

The match schedule of the tournament: 

March 27

15:00. Oman vs Sierra Leone

Dalga Arena

19:00. Azerbaijan vs Saint Lucia

Mehdi Huseynzada Sumgayit City Stadium

March 30

15:00. Third place match (losing teams)

Dalga Arena

19:00. Final (winners)

Mehdi Huseynzada Sumgayit City Stadium

Full Squad listed

Goalkeepers

Alhaji Sesay, Francis Koroma, Mamadou Jalloh

Defenders

Abdulai Juma Bah, Abdul Jarju Kabia, Alpha Turay, Nathaniel Jalloh, Citta Bah, Sallieu Tarawalie, Emmanuel Sahr Samadia, Idris Kanu

Midfielders

Kamil Conteh, John Billi Sesay, Alhassan Koroma, Saidu Fofanah, Santigie Fornah, Hindolo Mustapha, Mustapha Bundu, Kwame Quee

Forwards

Amadou Bakayoko, Yayah Kallon, Samuel Ghandi, John Thomas Kamara, Daniel Kanu, Sullay Borbor Kaikai 

Zambia's Chipolopolo set to face Argentina in Buenos Aires
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Zambia’s Chipolopolo set to face Argentina in Buenos Aires

Zambia is set to face Argentina in a highly anticipated friendly match on March 31 at La Bombonera Stadium in Buenos Aires.

This encounter, part of the March FIFA international matchdays, marks the inaugural meeting between the two nations and presents the Chipolopolo with a rare opportunity to test their skills against the reigning world champions.

Coach Moses Sichone plans to use this match as a chance to evaluate his squad in preparation for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. The team will kick off a domestic training camp next week, before heading to Argentina, where they will concentrate on their preparation and tactical adjustments.

The invitation to play Argentina necessitated a shift in Zambia’s plans, as they had already committed to participating in the Four Nations Tournament in Botswana.

To accommodate both events, the federation opted to send a local squad to the tournament while retaining the senior national team for this historic clash in Buenos Aires.

“We received an invitation to play Argentina, and it’s an opportunity we can’t afford to miss. When the world champions come calling, you answer. It’s a clear indication of the respect Zambia has earned on the global stage,” explained a federation spokesperson. However, since this match coincides with the Four Nations Tournament, they decided it was best to send their local team to Francistown.

The federation emphasised the Four Nations Tournament as a key platform for preparing their Olympic team. “With our Olympic participation confirmed, the tournament will help refine our squad selection, including both local and international players,” a spokesperson stated.

Following the friendly against Argentina, Zambia will focus on upcoming continental competitions, particularly the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. The coaching staff aims to use the March matches to fine-tune the squad and evaluate player performance against local rivals and elite international teams.

Serie C side Casertana confirm Yayah Kallon's Sierra Leone call-up
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Serie C side Casertana confirm Yayah Kallon’s Sierra Leone call-up

The Italian has said that Coach Mohamed Kallon, a legendary former striker who made his mark at Inter, Reggina, and Monaco, has invited the young talent to participate in friendly matches against Oman and Azerbaijan, scheduled to take place in Baku on March 27 and 30.

Last August, Casertana FC announced that it had secured Yayah Kallon, bringing him on board permanently from Hellas Verona. Kallon expressed his excitement about rejoining Rossoblu after a successful stint with the national team last season.

This marks a thrilling new chapter for the Sierra Leonean winger, who was born in 2001 and has previously played in Serie A with Genoa and Hellas Verona.

The upcoming friendlies will showcase a group stage featuring host nations Azerbaijan, Sierra Leone, Oman, and Saint Lucia, offering exciting matches for fans in Azerbaijan.

On March 27, Sierra Leone will face Oman in a match that will determine which team advances to the finals. The victors of the opening day will go head-to-head on March 30 for the championship, setting the stage for an exciting conclusion to the tournament.

Meanwhile, the teams that don’t come out on top in their first matches will compete for third place, adding another layer of competition. This tournament is set to spotlight emerging talents while also fostering international camaraderie.

All FIFA Series 2026 encounters will be broadcast globally, ensuring that fans across all regions can tune in and cheer for their national teams while enjoying increased visibility for the participating nations.

The match schedule of the tournament: 

March 27

15:00. Oman vs Sierra Leone

Dalga Arena

19:00. Azerbaijan vs Saint Lucia

  • Mehdi Huseynzada Sumgayit City Stadium

March 30

15:00. Third place match (losing teams)

  • Dalga Arena

19:00. Final (winners)

  • Mehdi Huseynzada Sumgayit City Stadium
Morocco awarded as Senegal stripped off Afcon title following CAF's decision
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Morocco awarded AFCON title as Senegal is stripped after CAF’s decision

Morocco has been declared the winner of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after the Confederation of African Football (Caf) overturned the result of the final due to Senegal’s controversial walk-off.

In the match on January 18, Senegal initially won 1-0, but the game was disrupted when Senegal’s players refused to continue after a last-minute penalty was awarded to Morocco, which had been tied at 0-0.

After a 17-minute delay, the players returned, but Brahim Diaz’s penalty was saved, and Senegal’s Pape Gueye later scored in extra time. However, Caf has reversed the result, recording it as a 3-0 victory for Morocco instead.

The Senegalese Football Federation announced plans to appeal this decision at the Court of Arbitration for Sport, calling it “unfair” and damaging to African football.

CAF’s ruling followed an appeal by the Moroccan FA (FRMF), which cited a violation of Articles 82 and 84 of the competition’s regulations, stating that a team refusing to play is deemed the loser.

The FRMF emphasised that its appeal aimed to enforce the competition’s rules, not to challenge the teams’ performances.

After the announcement, some Senegalese players took to social media to react, with Crystal Palace forward Ismaila Sarr sharing laughing emojis. At the same time, West Ham’s El Hadji Malick Diouf posted a celebratory image with the caption “Champions, speak up!”

During the final, with the score tied, referee Jean Jacques Ndala awarded a penalty following a VAR review. However, after a dispute, Senegal’s coach, Pape Thiaw, led his team off the field. Following the delay, Senegal returned, but Diaz’s penalty was saved, and Gueye scored to secure the initial win.

Morocco’s coach, Walid Regragui, described Senegal’s actions as “shameful,” and Fifa president Gianni Infantino criticised the “ugly scenes.” Thiaw later acknowledged that ordering his team off the pitch was a rash decision made in the moment. Morocco parted ways with Regragui on March 5, just four months before the World Cup finals.

Osman Kakay's Košice for Slovak Cup semi-final against Tatran Presov
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Osman Kakay’s Košice set for Slovak Cup semi-final against Tatran Presov

Set for today's Slovak Cup semi-final against a formidable team, Sierra Leone International Osman Kakay will be looking to help his side, FC Košice, against Presov Tatran in the first leg.

The Slovnaft Cup, named after its sponsorship, is the only nationwide knockout tournament in Slovak football, where the champion of this competition earns a spot in the first round of UEFA Europa League qualification.

Kakay and his Slovak team have had a remarkable run in the tournament, reaching this stage after an impressive 4-0 win over DAC 1904 Dunajska Streda on March 4th.

Sierra Leone International joined the club in 2025 and has set eyes on his first silverware in Slovakia.

Their next opponent, Tatran Presov, poses a difficult obstacle. One of the most powerful teams in Slovakia, Slovan, brings quality and experience to create a high-stakes scenario.

Košice’s path has been driven by a growing team belief as well as solid home backing. The semi-final presents an opportunity to make a statement on the national level as well as get to the finals.

Fans should anticipate a rapid, passionate fight as both sides crave silverware. As Slovakia gets ready for a spectacular confrontation, all eyes will be on this cup “cracker.”  

Nigeria and DR Congo face FIFA sanctions for Indiscipline
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Nigeria and DR Congo face FIFA sanctions for Indiscipline

FIFA has sanctioned Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) due to disciplinary issues during their 2026 World Cup continental play-off in November last year.

Following the match, FIFA’s judicial body found both the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the DR Congo Football Association (Fecofa) guilty of separate violations.

The NFF was fined 1,000 Swiss francs (around $1,270; £950) for failing to ensure proper “order and security,” specifically regarding objects thrown by spectators. In contrast, the Congolese FA faced a heavier fine of 5,000 Swiss francs for supporters using “laser pointers,” which breaches FIFA’s Article 17.2.d.

The play-off final on November 16, 2025, in Rabat, saw DR Congo win 4-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw, ending Nigeria’s hopes of World Cup qualification for the first time since 2018.

Following the defeat, NFF questioned the eligibility of several DR Congo players who had changed their national allegiance, citing domestic laws that reportedly do not recognise dual citizenship for adults.

With just two weeks until the intercontinental play-offs in Mexico to decide World Cup qualifiers, the sanctions have intensified focus on FIFA’s decision regarding Nigeria’s protest about alleged ineligible players.

Nonetheless, FIFA has confirmed DR Congo’s participation in the upcoming fixtures, where they will face the winner of New Caledonia and Jamaica on March 31.

Coach Sebastien Desabre has named a 26-man squad, welcoming back Yoane Wissa after a knee injury sidelined him during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

DR Congo is hoping to qualify for the World Cup for the first time since 1974, when the country competed under the name Zaire.

Up to 10 African nations could qualify to participate in the expanded global tournament in North America.

Esperance claim vital first-leg victory over Al Ahly
by FSL News

Esperance claim vital first-leg victory over Al Ahly

Esperance Sportive de Tunis earned a crucial 1–0 win over Al Ahly SC in the first leg of their CAF Champions League quarter-final, giving them an edge for the return match in Cairo.

The encounter at the Hamadi Agrebi Stadium lived up to the hype, showcasing a tense tactical battle between two of Africa’s finest clubs. Algerian defender Mohamed Amine Tougai scored the decisive goal from the penalty spot midway through the second half, breaking Esperance’s long scoring drought against Al Ahly.

Despite the defeat, the Egyptian champions remain competitive, with the return leg set for Cairo International Stadium, where they will aim to overturn the deficit and maintain their hopes of continental success.

Both teams started cautiously, aware of the need to avoid early mistakes. Esperance’s Florian Danho had an early chance denied by an excellent save from Al Ahly’s goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir. In response, Mahmoud Hassan Trezeguet unleashed a powerful long-range shot, but it was kept out by Esperance’s Bechir Ben Said.

As the match unfolded, it became a tactical duel, with both sides pressing to disrupt their opponent’s rhythm. The game’s turning point came in the 73rd minute when a penalty was awarded to Esperance after Al Ahly defender Mohamed Hany handled the ball. Tougai stepped up confidently to convert, igniting celebrations among the home fans.

Al Ahly pushed hard for an equaliser, introducing fresh attacking options, but were unable to find the back of the net. Esperance nearly extended their lead late in the game but were kept at bay.

With a narrow lead, Esperance heads to Egypt, knowing the tie is still very much alive. The return leg on Saturday promises to be another gripping chapter in this storied rivalry, with a spot in the Champions League semi-finals at stake.

Pyramids and AS Far settle for first leg quarter-final draw
by Football Sierra Leone

Pyramids and AS Far settle for first leg quarter-final draw

The CAF Inter-Club quarter-final first legs delivered a thrilling display of football, with all four matches ending in tense 1-1 draws.

The crucial away goals kept the ties for both the Champions League and Confederation Cup very much alive.

In the Champions League, defending champions Pyramids FC fought hard for a 1-1 draw at AS FAR Rabat’s Olympic Stadium.

The hosts took an early lead when Ahmed Hammoudan scored in the 8th minute, but Mahmoud Zalaka levelled the game with a goal in the 52nd minute, keeping hopes strong for both teams.

At the Berkane Municipal Stadium, Al Hilal Omdurman initially went in front thanks to a goal from Abdel Raouf in the 13th minute. However, RS Berkane managed to salvage a draw with a last-gasp penalty converted by Mounir Chouiar in the 90+9th minute.

Al Hilal faced a setback late in the match when Steven Ebuela received a red card, leaving them down to ten men.

In the Confederation Cup, Zamalek SC held their ground with a 1-1 draw at AS Otoho d’Oyo’s Stade Alphonse Massemba-Débat in Brazzaville. Charles Atipo opened the scoring for the home side, only to see Oday Dabbagh equalise for the Egyptian team.

Meanwhile, at the New Suez Stadium, CR Belouizdad snatched a point away from home against Al Masry, ending in a 1-1 standoff. Salah Mohsen had put Al Masry ahead, but Lofti Boussouar struck in stoppage time to secure the equaliser.

With all four ties remaining evenly matched, the stage is set for next weekend’s second legs, where those hard-earned away goals could prove decisive in determining which teams advance to the semi-finals.

Saturday’s results

AS FAR (Morocco) 1-1 Pyramids (Egypt)

RS Berkane (Morocco) 1-1 Al Hilal Omdurman (Sudan)

AS Otoho (Congo-Brazzaville) 1-1 Zamalek (Egypt)

Al Masry (Egypt) 1-1 CR Belouizdad (Algeria)