Category: Sport News

Morocco's Ayyoub Bouaddi was impressive in World Cup debut against Brazil
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Morocco’s Ayyoub Bouaddi was impressive in World Cup debut against Brazil

Ayyoub Bouaddi stole the show on Saturday with a strong performance in his first World Cup game at MetLife Stadium. Morocco coach Mohamed Ouahbi, who had complete faith in the young talent, was not surprised by his calm midfield performance.

Sofascore reports that teenage sensation Ayyoub Bouaddi made a spectacular worldwide debut by anchoring Morocco’s midfield against five-time winners Brazil with a stunning 87 touches and 60 precise passes.

With an exciting 1-1 draw, Morocco’s first game in the 2026 FIFA World Cup came to a close. At the 21st minute Ismael Saibari pulled the Atlas Lions ahead only for Vinícius Júnior to draw Brazil just eleven minutes later.

Coming only months after he played for France at the Under-21 level in March, following years in the French youth system, this game was important for Bouaddi as it signalled his senior international debut.

Based on post-match statistics from Sofascore, the 18-year-old midfielder sparkled, leading Morocco with three successful dribbles, 60 accurate passes, and 87 touches. His great debut enabled Morocco to compete against one of the most famous clubs in soccer.

Bouaddi showed control during the game, first taking the lead over Casemiro in the first half, then dominating the midfield versus Fabinho following the break.

Ouahbi told reporters later, “it wasn’t a gamble to start him at just 18.” I pay just attention to players’ performances, not their age. If a player performs well, whether they are 35 or 17, they will play. He also stressed that starting Bouaddi was a confident choice based on the skills of the young player.

The Morocco coach said that starting Bouaddi was a deliberate decision as he was sure the young player would rise to the occasion against Brazil; he rejected the idea of a bold pick. I won’t run away from playing younger players. We knew he would do well, thus it was not at all risky. That wasn’t the kind of game for risking against Brazil.”

Tonight, Ayyoub Bouaddi was unusually composed. One user said, “An underrated performance and our Man of the Match.” Another called him “super exceptional,” emphasising his amazing “composure and passion.”

On June 19 in Foxborough, the Atlas Lions hope to keep this momentum going against Scotland; five days later, there is a final group-stage match against Haiti in Atlanta.

Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi confident ahead of Brazil match
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi confident ahead of Brazil match

The North African team from Morocco, who reached the semi-finals in Qatar in 2022, is eager to demonstrate their skills on the global stage, as expressed by their captain, Achraf Hakimi.

At New York New Jersey Stadium later this evening, Carlo Ancelotti’s Brazil will take on New York’s Atlas Lions. Confident leading up to the game are head coach Mohamed Ouahbi and captain Achraf Hakimi

One of the group stage highlights of the FIFA World Cup 2026, this match will be. Though Ancelotti’s debut World Cup™ as a coach will take centre stage, many are also interested in whether Morocco can replicate their strong Qatar showing.

Both teams are now at ground zero. Achraf Hakimi, the captain, thinks this is accurate. Though Morocco has only five World Cup victories, compared to Brazil’s five championships, he discounted the notion that they were underdogs.

Hakimi commented, “In a game like this, in a tournament like the World Cup, there are no favourites.” “That’s half and half. It boils down to the minute details and which team is more efficient. That will be us, fingers crossed. 

The current surge of Morocco in international football gives Hakimi his confidence. Their Qatar performance has enabled them to keep developing.

Mohamed Ouahbi, the coach, also feels good about the team’s attitude. Having won the U-20 tournament last September, this will be his first time leading Morocco in a FIFA men’s competition. “We believe in the players and the work we’ve done,” he added. The games will tell us where we are.

Morocco has never played South American teams in the first FIFA World Cup games and has not won any of them. In their most recent match against a South American team, they fell 3-0 in Nantes to Brazil in 1998.

Brazil knows Morocco has come a long way since then. Vinicius Júnior said, “Morocco has definitely improved a lot.” They are well managed and able to rival anyone. The game has changed, and Morocco is in it.

Having lost 2-1 to the Atlas Lions in a friendly in March 2023, Brazil knows Morocco can be among the best teams.

Brazil in training ahead of the World Cup opener against Morocco
Brazil in training ahead of the World Cup opener against Morocco
homas Partey denied entry to Canada, unavailable for Ghana's opening World Cup game
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Thomas Partey denied entry to Canada, unavailable for Ghana’s opening World Cup game

Because Canada denied him admission, Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey will miss his country’s first World Cup match in Toronto versus Panama. 

Partly, 32, has pled not guilty to seven counts of rape and one count of sexual assault in connection with accusations from four women between 2020 and 2022. Next year, he will appear in court.

FIFA verified that the Canadian government rejected his visa application. They said that the host government, not FIFA, makes visa decisions. The Canadian government website says that anyone with convictions or criminal charges could be refused admission.

A US Customs agent said Partey entered the US after obtaining a visa, even if they are aware of his continuing trial, as he has not been found guilty. They evaluate admittance on a case-by-case basis and directed inquiries about Canada’s entry rejection to that nation.

If the player is here with me, my response is simple, Ghana head coach Carlos Queiroz remarked with confidence in picking Partey.

Ghana will take on Croatia on June 27 and England in their second Group L game on June 23. Partey could still play in these matches. Should Ghana place second, they could go back to Canada for the last 32 on July 2.

Partey is not the only one dealing with entrance problems. At a Chicago airport, Iraq striker Aymen Hussein was questioned before entry was permitted; Iran had to move their base to Mexico and had further problems with visa denials.

Though he had the necessary travel documents, Somali referee Omar Artan was denied entry into the United States because of suspected ties to terrorist organizations.

Cape Verde defender Sidny Cabral eyes a positive World Cup opener against Spain
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Cape Verde defender Sidny Cabral looks forward to a positive World Cup opener against Spain

Cape Verde defender Sidny Lopes Cabral has great faith in his team’s ability to compete on the biggest international scene as the Blue Sharks finish their preparations for their historic 2026 FIFA World Cup match against powerhouses Spain on Monday, 15 June. (Photo Credit Cape Verdian National team).

Following Thursday’s strenuous training session, where the team had been sharpening their concentration for their first game, the defender addressed the media. 

The debutant Cape Verde is among Africa’s ten representatives in the enlarged competition seeking to leave an immediate and long-term impact.

Exuberance About a Historic Launch

Reflecting on the atmosphere in the camp, Cabral underlined that the team’s motivation comes from enthusiasm and pride in representing their country on the biggest football platform. The defender thinks the team’s hard work is going to show.

Cabral expressed enthusiasm and said we are delighted to be here; we can’t wait to begin and create fantastic work. We are going to display a great deal of enthusiasm, energy, and aggression. We are a strong team with a great deal of quality, and we will certainly show this. Every day we are putting in a lot of effort to get better; our ultimate goal is to get to the knockout stages.

The Trabzonspor defender said the newcomers are not looking past their present test; instead, they are concentrating only on their difficult first game against La Roja.

Cabral said, “Our first game against Spain takes front stage; then we will consider Uruguay and Saudi Arabia.” We must give a solid performance and demonstrate to the world that we can match a team like Spain.

Though Spain is the clear tournament favourite going into the game, the 23-year-old says the Blue Sharks will not be afraid of their opponent’s record.

To show that we belong on this platform is our first goal. Though they are World Cup contenders, he said we will do very well against them.

A new beginning for the Blue Sharks

Cape Verde’s first-ever showing at the world championships, a historic turning point for the island country, is the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The debutante are drawn in Group H together with Spain, Uruguay, and Saudi Arabia. The Blue Sharks will start their fantasy run against Spain on Monday at 5:00 PM WAT, then take on Uruguay and Saudi Arabia in their next group matches as they try to get into the round of 32.

Julián Quiñones has written his name into history
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Mexico Win World Cup Opener in Dramatic Fashion Over South Africa

At a packed Azteca Stadium, Mexico kicked off their 2026 World Cup campaign with a 2-0 victory over South Africa.  Three players sent off made the game fierce. Mexico ended up with ten players, whereas South Africa ended up with nine.

Brazilian official Wilton Sampaio produced three cards as he dismissed South Africa’s Yaya Sithole for stopping a clear goal opportunity and Themba Zwane for slapping, then sent off Mexico’s Cesar Montes for a late foul. 

Fans of Mexico were delighted as they scored the first goal only nine minutes in. Julian Quinones shot the ball forcefully across Ronwen Williams’ legs after Erik Lira tackled Sithole.

Before halftime, Quinones nearly scored again, but his shot struck the right post. When Sithole brought down Brian Gutierrez early in the second half for a red card, things got better for Mexico.

At age 35, striker Raul Jimenez headed in Roberto Alvarado’s cross for his first World Cup goal, sealing the victory. This poignant scene moved the veteran to tears.

For the first time since hosting in 2010, South Africa was in the finals but ended the game with nine men after replacement Zwane was dismissed for hitting Alvarado.

Seventeen-year-old Gilberto Mora, the tournament’s youngest player, was introduced in the second half. Mexico’s Montes fouled Khuliso Mudau late in the game, but they held their two-goal lead.

Mexico is hosting the World Cup for the third time, and they got off to a fantastic start despite the late red card. The Azteca Stadium in Mexico City hosted the first game, just like it did in 1970 and 1986.

Fans loved a spirited opening event featuring Colombian singer Shakira before the game started. Ranked 14th globally, Mexico took charge against South Africa, which is ranked 46 ranks lower.

Following South Africa’s early error that resulted in a goal for Mexico, Sithole’s red card further diminished their prospects of winning. Returning to Wolves next season, Jimenez nearly scored early on, but Williams made an excellent one-handed save.

At last, he scored with a strong header in the second half, demonstrating how much this goal meant to him as he celebrated with his colleagues.

  • Mexico are now unbeaten in their last seven World Cup curtain-raisers, winning six. They beat the Republic 3-1 at the 1998 World Cup in France, Croatia 1-0 at Korea/Japan 2002 World Cup in Korea/Japan, and IR Iran 3-1 at the 2006 World Cup before a 1-1 draw with hosts South Africa in 2010. 

  • Mexico returned to the victory column with a 1-0 defeat of Cameroon at Brazil 2014 and Germany. A goalless draw with Poland followed at Qatar 2022 and a 2-0 win over South Africa in 2026 USA, Canada and Mexico. 

Venue: Mexico City Stadium
Attendance: 80,824
Somali referee Omara Artan, barred from 2026 FIFA World Cup, lands UEFA role
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Somali referee Omar Artan, barred from 2026 FIFA World Cup, lands UEFA role

The Union of European Football Associations, UEFA, has confirmed the appointment of Somali referee Omar Artan to officiate the 2026 UEFA Super Cup.

This highly anticipated match is scheduled for 12 August in Salzburg, featuring UEFA Champions League winners Paris Saint-Germain against UEFA Europa League champions Aston Villa FC.

“Despite his youth, Artan has quickly made a name for himself as one of the world’s leading referees and has been on the FIFA international officiating list since 2018,” UEFA noted. 

He notably officiated the second leg of the 2025/26 CAF Champions League final, solidifying his reputation in the sport. In recognition of his exceptional performances, he was honoured with the CAF Men’s Referee of the Year Award in 2025.

Although Artan was selected as part of the match officials for the FIFA World Cup 2026, he was unable to participate due to restrictions preventing him from entering the United States.

His appointment to referee the UEFA Super Cup falls under the framework of the recent Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between UEFA and CAF, which aims to foster cooperation in various areas, including refereeing. Both UEFA and CAF are dedicated to promoting football development at all levels and upholding the core values of unity, equality, and non-discrimination.

Aleksander Čeferin, UEFA president, said: “Omar Artan is an excellent young but already experienced referee, who has proven himself at the highest competition level of the Confederation of African Football. Football is made to connect people, and UEFA wants to show its respect to Omar and his outstanding officiating skills, which had earned him such a prestigious nomination. I am grateful to my friend CAF President Patrice Motsepe for supporting enthusiastically our initiative.”

Dr Patrice Motsepe, CAF president, said: “Omar Artan has made Somalia and the entire people of the African Continent extremely proud. His receipt of the CAF Men’s Referee of the Year Award 2025 and his appointment as a referee of the FIFA World Cup 2026 are a recognition of his world-class refereeing ability and the international respect that he enjoys. I am very thankful to my friend, Aleksander Čeferin for enabling Omar Artan to officiate the UEFA Super Cup 2026 match. This is a great honour for Omar Artan and for African referees and is also an excellent example of football, bringing together and uniting people from Africa and Europe and worldwide.”

South Africa kick off Africa's 2026 World Cup campaign against Mexico
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

South Africa kick off Africa’s 2026 World Cup campaign against Mexico

South Africa is leading the way as Africa is poised to make history at the 2026 FIFA World Cup with an unprecedented ten teams representing the continent, marking its largest presence ever at the tournament.

Kicking off in North America, South Africa will face co-hosts Mexico in the opening match. This is the first time African teams will have double-digit representation on football’s biggest stage.

The teams representing Africa will be Algeria, Cape Verde, Côte d’Ivoire, DR Congo, Egypt, Ghana, Morocco, Senegal, South Africa, and Tunisia. This milestone follows Morocco’s impressive journey to the semi-finals at Qatar 2022, which changed global perceptions of African teams.

Africa’s World Cup journey began in 1934 with Egypt’s participation. Over the decades, representation gradually grew, with Morocco, DR Congo, and Tunisia among the first to join.

The milestone of five African teams was first achieved in 1998, and the previous record of six was set in 2010 when Ghana reached the quarter-finals.

Cape Verde’s qualification is particularly notable, as it marks their first World Cup appearance. DR Congo’s return since 1974 and South Africa’s comeback after 2010 add further excitement.

Veteran teams like Ghana, Senegal, Morocco, Tunisia, Algeria, Egypt, and Côte d’Ivoire bring valuable experience, while newcomers inject fresh energy into Africa’s challenge.

The 2026 World Cup isn’t just about numbers; it’s about turning this historic representation into record-breaking performances. With higher expectations, Africa arrives in North America with its strongest presence yet.

The journey from Egypt’s debut in 1934 to ten teams in 2026 has been long and challenging, marking a significant moment for African football and its growing ambition on the world stage.

African participation at the FIFA World Cup

1934: Egypt

1970: Morocco

1974: DR Congo

1978: Tunisia

1982: Algeria, Cameroon

1986: Algeria, Morocco

1990: Cameroon, Egypt

1994: Cameroon, Morocco, Nigeria

1998: Cameroon, Morocco, Nigeria, South Africa, Tunisia

2002: Cameroon, Nigeria, Senegal, South Africa, Tunisia

2006: Angola, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Togo, Tunisia

2010: Algeria, Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Nigeria, South Africa

2014: Algeria, Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Nigeria

2018: Egypt, Morocco, Nigeria, Senegal, Tunisia

2022: Cameroon, Ghana, Morocco, Senegal, Tunisia

2026: Algeria, Cape Verde, Côte d’Ivoire, DR Congo, Egypt, Ghana, Morocco, Senegal, South Africa, Tunisia

Africa's representatives at the World Cup since 1934
Africa's representatives at the World Cup since 1934
Referee Omar Artan received a warm welcome upon his return to Mogadishu
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Referee Omar Artan received a warm welcome upon his return to Mogadishu

A warm welcome for Somali referee Omar Artan, who has returned to Mogadishu. Despite holding a diplomatic passport and a single-entry US visa, Artan was denied entry, shattering his dream of officiating at the FIFA World Cup.

“Every referee aspires to go to the World Cup,” Artan shared in an interview with BBC Somali last week, just before he departed from home. “When you’re selected, it feels like all your hard work has paid off. It’s a moment when everything falls into place. Years of effort finally find their meaning.”

Last year, Artan was recognised as the best male referee in Africa and officiated two matches at the recent Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon). After being included in the list of FIFA match officials, he was hailed by the country’s President Hassan Mohamud as “a symbol of inspiration for the new generation of Somalis.”

While the Somali government is making diplomatic efforts to resolve the entry issue, Artan’s hopes of attending the World Cup seem dim as he has risen through the officiating ranks in a nation that has been marred by conflict for decades.

The US State Department informed BBC Africa that it welcomes “legitimate travelers” to the World Cup and assesses each visa application on an individual basis, following a thorough review and meticulous vetting. They also noted that “national security and public safety” play significant roles in the visa decision-making process.

Omar Artan, who was set to be the first Somali to referee at the World Cup finals, has been dropped from the list of officials after he was denied entry to the United States.
Omar Artan, who was set to be the first Somali to referee at the World Cup finals, has been dropped from the list of officials after he was denied entry to the United States.
Liberia shine in victory over Sierra Leone at the SKD Stadium
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Liberia shine in victory over Sierra Leone at the SKD Stadium

Liberia took control of the second match after losing the first leg at the Southern Arena on Saturday, June 6th. They led 2-0 at halftime at the Samuel Kanyon Doe Stadium and won the game 3-1.

The hosts played with great confidence, creating numerous chances and converting two crucial opportunities before the break. Their attacking movements consistently troubled the opposition’s defence throughout the first half, while their back line maintained an organised and disciplined approach.

Sebastin Teclar opened the scoring for the home team, followed closely by Ayoubah Kosiah, who extended the Lone Star’s advantage just before the halftime whistle.

After the break, Sierra Leone came out swinging, determined to claw their way back into the match. The Leone Stars entered the friendly with a tactical and psychological edge following their first-leg win, although they made seven changes to their lineup.

Nonetheless, the hosts continued to dominate, and they were rewarded when Philip Tarnue netted his first goal for the Lone Star, extending their lead to 3-0 against Sierra Leone at the SKD.

Sierra Leone managed to score a late goal in the second half, with Charlton Athletic striker Daniel Kanu finding the net. However, Moroccan-Belgian coach Mohammed Erradi celebrated his first win as the manager of Liberia, guiding the Lone Star to a 3-1 victory over Sierra Leone. The supporters in the stadium erupted with cheers after the final whistle as Liberia avenged the first defeat.

Liberian striker Sherman vies for the ball with Sierra Leone defender Alpha Turay
Liberian striker Sherman vies for the ball with Sierra Leone defender Alpha Turay
Mali's youngster Seydou Diarra pens deal with SC Austria Lustenau
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Mali’s youngster Seydou Diarra pens deal with SC Austria Lustenau

Newly promoted Austrian Bundesliga team SC Austria Lustenau has signed gifted young player Seydou Diarra. Coming from FC Gueugnon, a team in the French sixth level, the 21-year-old forward has signed a contract through at least 2027.

Diarra, who can play in many attacking roles, last summer switched from Cedar Stars, a Ghana-based club, to Clermont Foot 63 in France. January saw him join FC Gueugnon and score three goals over eleven games.

Diarra is eager for his new adventure and hopes to take home club trophies. He claimed, “From now on, I am quite delighted to be playing for Austria. The team and all the guys have given me a wonderful welcome. The team and I are in good shape, therefore I will do all on the field to reach our shared objectives.

Mirco Papaleo, the athletic director, was upbeat about the recruitment. He continued, “We are happy Seydou chose to come with us. With his speed and skill, he is a gifted young player who will be quite useful for us on the wing. We think he will keep growing with us and turn in great work.

Diarra has been working out with Austria Vienna for two and a half weeks now. The coaches were so impressed by his outstanding play that he was offered a permanent job. He will be playing with Ghanaian player Lord Afrifa, who just moved from Sturm Graz and signed a two-year deal with an option for a third year.

Austria Lustenau was elevated to the Austrian Bundesliga after placing first in Bundesliga 2. On the final day of the season, they defeated SKU Amstetten 2-1 to claim the 2. Liga championship.