Category: Sport News

Egypt's Mo Salah optimistic of winning more trophies after new deal
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Egypt’s Mo Salah optimistic of winning more trophies after new deal

Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah has signed a new two-year contract with the club, which extends his stay until 2027. His impressive goal-scoring record has placed him third on the all-time top scorers list for the Reds, with 243 goals in 394 appearances to date.

The Egyptian international cited the team’s potential as a key reason for his decision. “Of course I’m very excited. We have a great team now. Before also we had a great team. But I signed because I think we have a chance to win other trophies and enjoy my football, he told  Liverpoolfc.com.

“With the support of the fans and the city, along with the encouragement they always provide during matches, I believe we can achieve great success in the coming years.” Salah’s commitment comes during an exceptional season in which he has scored 32 goals and provided 22 assists in 45 appearances across all competitions. In the Premier League alone, he has netted 27 goals and contributed 17 assists, highlighting his crucial role in Liverpool’s attacking prowess.

The forward expressed a strong desire to secure the Premier League title this season. “As I mentioned at the start of the season, I want to win the Premier League more than anything else. I really want it,” he added. “The fans deserve it—the last time we won, we didn’t celebrate it much. Hopefully, we can do it this time. There are still seven games left, and it won’t be easy since Arsenal is also in contention. We will give it our all, and hopefully, in the end, we can win it.”

Since joining Liverpool in 2017, Salah has scored a total of 243 goals, placing him third on the club’s all-time scoring list.

Ziyad Baha nets twice as Morocco beat South Africa in U17 AFCON
by Football Sierra Leone

Ziyad Baha nets twice as Morocco beat South Africa in U17 AFCON

Morocco advanced to the semi-finals of the 2025 CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations by defeating South Africa 3-1 on Thursday in Mohammedia.

Playing in front of a supportive home crowd at Stade El Bachir, Morocco took control early, with Ismail El Aoud scoring in the 13th minute.

South Africa fought back and equalized with Neo Bohloko’s header in the 54th minute but Morocco quickly regained the lead. Ziyad Baha scored twice, first in the 61st minute and then a minute later, securing the win.

Morocco defended well throughout the match, with goalkeeper Chouaib Bellaarouch making key saves to maintain their advantage.

This victory confirmed Morocco’s spot in the semi-finals, joining Burkina Faso, who beat Zambia 6-1 earlier in the day. Morocco’s strong attacking and defensive play makes them a top contender for the U-17 AFCON title.

Rampant Burkina Faso thrash Zambia to U17 Cup of Nations Semis
by FSL News

Rampant Burkina Faso thrash Zambia to reach U17 Cup of Nations Semis

Burkina Faso performed impressively on Thursday night, defeating Zambia 6-1 in the quarter-finals of the TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations.

This victory secured their spot in the semi-finals for the second year in a row. The match took place at the El Arbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca, and Burkina Faso clearly showed their strength, repeating their success from the 2023 tournament in Algeria.

The Young Stallions took control early in the game. Mohamed Fofana scored the first goal in the 11th minute after Zambia made a defensive mistake. Ten minutes later, Burkina Faso doubled their lead when Nkotami Chimwemwe fouled Issouf Diakité in the penalty box. Souleymane Tapsoba confidently scored the penalty, marking his fifth goal of the tournament.

Zambia managed to score once in the 35th minute, thanks to Abel Salim Nyirongo, who found the net after getting to a loose ball. However, they struggled to gain momentum. Nyirongo almost scored again just before halftime but was stopped by Burkinabè keeper Prince Hamed Ouédraogo in a key one-on-one play.

In the second half, Burkina Faso came back with more energy. Diakité made the score 3-1 in the 58th minute with a calm finish from a precise pass by Coulibaly, which was confirmed by VAR. A few minutes later, Diakité scored his second by weaving through the Zambian defense and finishing from a clever assist by Tapsoba.

Zambia ran into more trouble when Mwape fouled Bagayoko in the penalty area during the 78th minute. Tapsoba scored another penalty, extending the lead. He capped off a great game with a third goal in the 90th minute by taking advantage of a defensive mistake.

This strong win not only puts Burkina Faso in the semi-finals but also sends a strong message to the other teams. Diakité and Tapsoba have formed an important partnership, with Tapsoba leading the tournament with seven goals.

Burkina Faso had already qualified for the FIFA U-17 World Cup before this match. Now, they aim to reach their second U-17 AFCON final and win a second continental title, having won in 2011.

Ex-East End Lions midfielder Alpha Kabia pleased to join Minnesota United
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Midfielder Alpha Kabia pleased to join Minnesota United

Young Doctors FC midfielder, who was on loan to East End Lions Alpha Kabia expressed happiness after MNUFC2 announced his signing to a one-year MLS NEXT Pro contract, which includes a club option for 2026.

“We are excited to welcome Alpha to MNUFC2. He has a solid understanding of the game at a young age, is aggressive on the ball, and effectively commands the midfield. We are thrilled to have him join the club and to support his growth as a young professional player, both on and off the pitch,” said Amos Magee, MNUFC Head of Development & Player Pathway.

“I extend my sincerest gratitude to Minnesota United and MNUFC2 for believing in me and providing this incredible opportunity,” said Alpha Kabia. “Thank you to everyone who has supported me on this journey; I’m excited to take this important step in my career. To my loved ones, I couldn’t have done this without you. Your encouragement and sacrifices mean the world to me. Thank you for being my rock. I dedicate this achievement to all Sierra Leonean players back home: never lose hope and never abandon your dreams.”

Kabia, 19, who has joined MNUFC2 on a one-year MLS NEXT Pro contract, with an option for 2026, previously played for East End Lions in Sierra Leone’s National Premier League on loan from Young Doctors FC.

Kabia started at Young Doctors FC, playing youth matches from 2017 to 2022, and was loaned to Mount Aureol Freetonians SLIFA from 2022 to 2024.

Internationally, Kabia has represented Sierra Leone’s U20 team and played a key role in their WAFU Group A Qualifiers, helping them qualify for the 2025 U20 Africa Cup of Nations.

Pirates, Pyramids, Ahly and Sundowns in CAF Champions League semi-finals
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Pirates, Pyramids, Ahly and Sundowns in CAF Champions League semi-finals

The semi-final line-up for the 2024/25 TotalEnergies CAF Champions League has been finalized, featuring two Egyptian teams and two South African teams that advanced from the quarter-finals, setting the stage for an exciting conclusion to this season’s tournament.

Historic Moment for Pyramids FC

Despite facing a scare in Morocco, losing 2-0 to the Royal Army, Pyramids FC, however, advanced with a 4-3 aggregate score, thanks to their strong first-leg victory in Cairo. This marks Pyramids’ first appearance in the semi-finals of the prestigious African competition.

They will now face Orlando Pirates in what promises to be a fiercely contested match between two ambitious clubs, both seeking their first continental title in over a decade.

Al Ahly Pursues 11th Title; Sundowns Await

Defending champions Al Ahly overcame Al Hilal of Sudan with consecutive 1-0 victories, extending their run of semi-final appearances to six. They will now take on Mamelodi Sundowns, who narrowly edged Esperance of Tunisia with a 1-0 aggregate score after a closely contested two-legged encounter.

CAF Champions League Semi-Final Schedule:

  • 1st Leg (April 18–19)
    • Orlando Pirates vs Pyramids FC
    • Mamelodi Sundowns vs Al Ahly
  • 2nd Leg (April 25–26)
    • Pyramids FC vs Orlando Pirates
    • Al Ahly vs Mamelodi Sundowns
U17 AFCON set for exciting quater-finals match up as host Morocco take on South Afrca
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Exciting U17 AFCON quater-finals match up as host Morocco take on South Africa

Mali, Senegal, Ivory Coast, host Morocco, Zambia, and South Africa are all set for intriguing U17 AFCON quarterfinals, kicking off with Burkina Faso vs. Zambia as host Morocco takes on South Africa today.

Burkina Face v Zambia

Group B winners Burkina Faso face runners-up Zambia in the CAF Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Morocco 2025 quarter-final at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium, Casablanca on Thursday (kick-off 17:00 local time / 16:00 GMT).

This is their first meeting in the U17 AFCON finals, but Burkina Faso has never lost in six previous games against COSAFA nations (W5 D1). Their only non-win was a 0-0 draw against Zimbabwe in 1999. They have scored 16 goals and conceded just three in those matches, keeping four clean sheets.

Host Morocco take on South Africa

Additionally, hosts Morocco will have a challenging match against South Africa in the CAF Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) quarter-finals at the El Bachir Stadium in Mohammedia on Thursday, with a kick-off time of 20:00 local (19:00 GMT).

Morocco, the winners of Group A, finished their group undefeated with two wins and a draw. South Africa secured second place in Group B, with one win, one draw, and one loss.

This marks the second meeting between Morocco and South Africa at the TotalEnergies CAF U17 AFCON. In their previous encounter at the finals, Morocco won 2-0 during their first group game in the 2023 edition.

Notably, current Morocco U17 coach Nabil Baha was an unused substitute during a 1-1 draw between Morocco and South Africa at the group stages of the 2004 TotalEnergies CAF AFCON finals, which allowed Morocco to progress while South Africa was eliminated.

West African Derby – Ivory Coast v Senegal

In another quarter-final clash, West African rivals Côte d’Ivoire and Senegal will meet for the first time in the TotalEnergies CAF Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Morocco 2025. This match will kick off at 17:00 local time (16:00 GMT) on Friday.

Côte d’Ivoire has scored the most goals in the tournament (10) and will take on Senegal, who boasts the joint-best defense. Both teams are unbeaten in the tournament, with Côte d’Ivoire winning Group D and Senegal finishing as runners-up in Group C.

Côte d’Ivoire is facing a defending champion for the second time, with their previous encounter being against Gambia in 2011, which they won 4-1 in the group stages.

Tunisia v Mali at the Ben M’Hamed El Abdi Stadium in El Jadida on Friday

Tunisia will face Mali in the quarter-finals of the TotalEnergies CAF Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations, Morocco 2025. The match will take place at the Ben M’Hamed El Abdi Stadium in El Jadida on Friday, with a kick-off time of 20:00 local (19:00 GMT).

The two teams have only met once before in the continental competition, during the group stages in 1999, where Mali emerged victorious with a score of 2-0. Tunisia’s record against West African opponents at these finals stands at 8 matches played, with 2 wins, 1 draw, and 5 losses. Their victories include a 3-0 win over Togo in the group stages of 2007 and a 2-1 win against Gambia in the current tournament.

Tunisia has also faced challenges in the semi-finals, losing to Nigeria twice, in 2007 and 2013. Additionally, they were defeated by Ghana in the 1997 group stages and in the play-off for third place in 2007. Tunisia lost to Mali during the 1995 group stages and recently drew 0-0 with Senegal in the ongoing competition.

On the other hand, this match against Tunisia will be Mali’s fifth encounter with North African opponents. Their previous record against North African teams shows 1 win, 1 draw, and 2 losses. Mali defeated Tunisia 2-0 in the 1995 group stages and drew 0-0 with Egypt during the 1997 group phase, later losing to Egypt 1-0 in the final that same year. In 2023, they faced Morocco in the semi-finals and lost in a penalty shootout after a 0-0 draw.

Kenya's Salim Babu names Cup of Nations U20 provisional squad
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Kenya’s Salim Babu names U20 Cup of Nations provisional squad

Kenya U20 head coach Salim Babu has announced a provisional squad of 35 players for the upcoming U20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), set to begin on April 27, 2025, in Egypt.

The Rising Stars are placed in Group C, where they will compete against defending champions Senegal, Zambia, and Sierra Leone as they aim to make a significant impact on the continental stage.

Kenya earned its spot in this tournament after finishing as runners-up in the 2024 CECAFA U20 Qualifiers, narrowly losing to Tanzania in the final.

Babu’s squad selection comes after a series of training camps designed to scout top young talent from across the country. The final list includes a mix of local and foreign-based players, featuring several key returnees from the CECAFA Qualifiers. Notable players include captain Amos Wanjala, Manzur Okwaro, Baron Ochieng, Aldrine Kibet, Tyron Kariuki, Kelly Madada, and Andreas Odhiambo.

Kenya will begin its campaign in Group C against Sierra Leone on May 1, followed by matches against Zambia on May 4, and concluding the group stage against Senegal on May 7.

The team has entered a residential training camp in Nairobi, with friendly matches scheduled to prepare for the tournament. Kenya will be aiming to make a strong impression in Egypt as they seek to advance past the group stage and challenge for continental glory.

Provisional Squad

Goalkeepers

Benard Jairo (Kariobangi Sharks), Wycliford Oduor (Bidco United), Kevin Oduor (Nairobi United)

Defenders

Manzur Okwaro (KCB), Joseph Bate (MOFA), Jackson Sane (Mombasa Elite), Amos Wanjala (Athletic Club Torrellano), Charles Junior (Sofapaka), Baron Ochieng (Sofapaka), Humphrey Obina (Murang’a Seal), Telena Ochieng (Ulinzi Stars), Rodgers Wasega (Nairobi City Stars)

Midfielders

Andreas Odhiambo (Kariobangi Sharks), Stanley Wilson (AIK – Sweden), Zech Obiero (Leyton Orient – England), Kevin Wangaya, Emilio Brian (Ulinzi Stars), Irad Mshindi (KCB), Kelly Madada (AFC Leopards), Mark Shaban (Gor Mahia), Aldrine Kibet (Nastic – Spain), Humphrey Aroko (Kariobangi Sharks), Gilbert Abala (Nairobi City Stars), Hassan Beja (AFC Leopards), Ezekiel Omuri (Shabana), Tyron Kariuki (KCB), William Gitamu (Bandari), Javan Omondi (Ulinzi Stars), Elly Owande (Al Nasr – UAE), Emmanuel Osoro (FC Talanta), Jeremy Bissau (Brooke House College – Leicester, England)

Forwards

Lawrence Ouma (MOFA), Oliver Machaka (Kakamega Homeboyz), Henry Omollo (Kakamega Homeboyz), Luis Ingavi (Saginaw Valley State – USA)

Egypt's Pyramids historic moment in CAF Champions League
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Egypt’s Pyramids historic moment in CAF Champions League

Pyramids made history by reaching their first-ever CAF Champions League semi-final on Tuesday night, despite losing 2-0 in the second leg to Morocco’s FAR Rabat. They advanced 4-3 on aggregate after winning 4-1 in Cairo last week, which gave them a key advantage.

In the second leg at the Stade d’Honneur in Meknes, FAR Rabat started strong. Youssef El-Fahli scored in the seventh minute, boosting hopes for a comeback. With the crowd behind them, they pushed hard to close the gap.

Pyramids quickly responded; Mohamed Hamdy had a chance to score in the 12th minute with a powerful header, but goalkeeper Hamza Hayani made a great save. Despite the pressure from FAR Rabat, Pyramids kept their cool, with veteran goalkeeper Ahmed El-Shenawy making crucial saves to maintain their aggregate lead in the first half.

In the second half, FAR Rabat continued to push. El-Fahli missed a big chance early on, and El-Shenawy made two important saves to keep Pyramids ahead. The second goal for FAR Rabat came in the 82nd minute from substitute Joel Villa, creating a tense finish.

FAR Rabat nearly scored again in the 93rd minute when Zahzouh’s free-kick just missed. Pyramids held on through five minutes of added time, showing determination to protect their aggregate lead and secure a spot in the semi-finals.

Now, Pyramids FC will watch the other quarter-final between Orlando Pirates and MC Alger. Pirates lead 1-0 going into the second leg on Wednesday. This achievement marks a significant milestone for Pyramids FC, which has quickly grown in Egyptian football and now stands among the continent’s top clubs, aiming for continental success.

CAF Champions wrap-up: Al Ahly set for Semi-Finals Against Sundowns
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

CAF Champions League: Al Ahly set for Semi-Finals Against Sundowns

Al Ahly has reached the semi-finals of the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League after beating Al Hilal 1-0 in the second leg at Sheikh Bedia Stadium in Mauritania on Tuesday giving them a 2-0 victory overall.

Midfielder Imam Ashour scored the crucial goal in the 80th minute. Al Ahly now focuses on their semi-final match with Mamelodi Sundowns, who won against Esperance de Tunis in their quarter-final.

The rivalry between these two teams has grown in recent years, and this match is expected to draw a lot of attention.

This win marks Al Ahly’s 21st appearance in the Champions League semi-finals and their sixth straight time in this round. They will face Mamelodi Sundowns from South Africa in the next match, which is highly anticipated.

Cautious First Half in Mauritania

Both teams started carefully, trying to control the midfield. Al Ahly, led by Swiss coach Marcel Koller, showed more energy early on. Slovenian forward Nijk Gradishar almost scored in the 9th minute with a powerful shot that forced a great save from Al Hilal’s goalkeeper, Issa Fofana.

Imam Ashour, important in the first leg, briefly worried fans after a tough challenge but bounced back and remained active. In the 34th minute, Al Ahly had a good chance when a low cross just missed both Gradishar and Wissam Abu Ali. Ashour tried to score with a strong shot from outside the box. Just before half-time, Al Hilal made a dangerous low cross into the box, but Al Ahly cleared it.

Ashour Scores Late to Secure the Win

In the second half, Al Hilal pushed harder to score. Their best chance came in the 64th minute when winger Ahmed Salem found himself one-on-one with Egypt’s goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy but failed to score. Al Ahly held on and scored the winning goal ten minutes before the end. Substitute Taher Mohamed Taher sent a well-placed ball into the box, and Ashour finished it off with skill.

Despite Al Hilal pushing in the final minutes and eight minutes added for stoppage time, Al Ahly kept their lead. Ahmed Reda nearly scored again in injury time, but Fofana made a quick save to keep the score from increasing.

Al Ahly, Esperance, Sundowns all set for Intriguing second leg CAF Champions League ties
by Football Sierra Leone

Al Ahly, Esperance, Sundowns all set for Intriguing second leg CAF Champions League ties

The CAF Champions League semi-finals are on the line Tuesday as four teams look to overcome deficits, while others aim to protect slim leads in quarter-finals are entering a critical phase with second-leg matchups set to determine who advances to the final four of Africa’s top club tournament.

Sundowns up against tough Esperance

Mamelodi Sundowns heads into a challenging match against Tunisia’s Esperance Sportive de Tunis with a narrow 1-0 lead. Coach Miguel Cardoso’s squad needs to stay firm to avoid last season’s semi-final disappointments.

Key players include Namibian forward Peter Shalulile and Brazilian playmaker Lucas Ribeiro. Sundowns will rely on their experience against a determined Esperance team aiming for their fifth Champions League title.

Under coach Maher Kanzari, they seek to turn the deficit around, with star player Youcef Belaïli expected to lead their attack. The Tunisian crowd will be a crucial motivator as Esperance looks to make a comeback.

MC Alger seeks revenge against Orlando Pirates

MC Alger faces a tough challenge after losing 1-0 to Orlando Pirates in the opening match in Algiers. The return leg in South Africa presents a significant test for the Algerians, who now must produce a strong away performance to remain in the competition.

Coach José Riveiro’s Pirates are the favorites for the second leg in Johannesburg.

The Buccaneers displayed solid defense in the first encounter, and fans hope to see players like Evidence Makgopa return to scoring form or potentially witness a surprising comeback from Monnapule Saleng, who recently resumed training after an extended absence. MC Alger will aim to harness their belief and character to defy the expectations away from home and turn the tie in their favor.

Pyramids FC are ready but cautious in Morocco

Egypt’s Pyramids FC holds a strong lead in the quarter-finals after a 4-1 victory over Morocco’s Royal Army in Cairo. The team’s attacking trio, consisting of Ibrahim Adel, Ramadan Sobhi, and Fiston Mayele, played a key role.

Coach Krunoslav Jurcic aims to secure their advancement in the upcoming match in Rabat. Despite the setback, Royal Army’s coach, Alexandre Santos, remains hopeful for a comeback on home ground. The match is taking place amid tensions between the clubs due to complaints over fan restrictions and stadium access.

Al Ahly cautious of an upset as Al Hilal prepares for an ambush in Nouakchott.

Al Ahly holds a 1-0 lead against Al Hilal ahead of their second-leg match in Nouakchott, due to security issues in Sudan. Coach Marcel Koller aims for improved offensive play from players like Achraf Bencharki, Imam Ashour, and Wissam Abu Ali, while veteran goalkeeper Mohamed El-Shenawy anchors the defense.