Category: Sport News

Shocking News - Aaron Boupendza's tragic death in China
by Football Sierra Leone

Shocking News – Aaron Boupendza’s tragic death in China

Gabonese striker Aaron Boupendza, playing with Zhejiang FC in China, tragically died at the age of 28 after falling from the 11th floor of his apartment.

The Gabonese Football Federation (Fegafoot) confirmed the news on April 16, 2025, expressing their sorrow and remembering him for his contributions to Gabonese football.

Boupendza had a remarkable career, including notable performances at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 2022, helping Gabon reach the knockout stages. Starting at CF Mounana in Gabon, he progressed to Bordeaux in 2016, followed by successful stints in Turkey, Qatar, the United States, and Romania before joining Zhejiang FC in January 2025.

During his brief time at Zhejiang FC, he scored four goals and provided six assists in just six matches, showcasing his talent. His fall is being investigated as suspicious, with reports indicating that he was with his brother at the time.

Tributes have poured in from the football community. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang expressed his sorrow on Instagram, saying, “I don’t have the words. Rest in peace, my brother.” Mario Lemina shared similar sentiments, emphasizing the sense of guilt felt by those close to him.

Gabonese President Brice Oligui Nguema and former club FC Cincinnati also expressed their condolences, highlighting Boupendza’s impact and the loss the football world has suffered.

Boupendza’s journey was one of resilience across various leagues, earning eight goals in 35 appearances for Gabon since his debut in 2016. As the investigation continues, the football community mourns the untimely loss of a talented player whose legacy will live on through those he touched.

Guinean striker Serhou Guirassy nets hattrick despite Dortmund elimination
by FSL News

Guinean striker Serhou Guirassy nets hattrick despite Dortmund elimination

Guinean striker Serhou Guirassy made history in the Champions League on Tuesday night by scoring a hat-trick for Borussia Dortmund against Barcelona.

His team lost 5-3 on aggregate after a 4-0 defeat in the first leg, so they were eliminated from the competition. In the quarter-final second leg at Signal Iduna Park, Dortmund won 3-1, but it wasn’t enough to progress.

Guirassy, one of Europe’s top scorers this season, scored all three goals for Dortmund. He converted a penalty in the 11th minute and scored again in the 49th and 76th minutes. Although his goals did not change the outcome, he set four records in one night:

He was the first Guinean player to score a hat trick in the Champions League. He is the fastest African to reach 13 goals in a single Champions League campaign. He holds the record for the most goals by a Borussia Dortmund player in one Champions League season. Additionally, he is the highest-scoring African in the 2024/25 Champions League, with a total of 13 goals.

Serhou Guirassy leads the Champions League scoring charts this season, outpacing stars like Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland. The 28-year-old has gained attention from top European clubs, especially in the Premier League, despite Dortmund’s elimination from the tournament. His achievements have been a proud moment for Guinean football fans, and he may still make headlines and set records this season.

Morocco edge Ivory Coast to set up U17 ASFCON final date with Mali
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Morocco edge Ivory Coast to set up U17 AFCON final date with Mali

The Morocco U17 team will play against Mali on Saturday aiming to win the trophy in front of their home fans. They reached the final of the Africa Cup of Nations after a tense victory over Côte d’Ivoire in a penalty shootout at El Bachir Stadium in Mohammedia.

The semi-final match ended in a goalless draw, but the young Atlas Cubs ultimately edged past the Elephants 4-3 in the penalty shootout.

Nabil Baha’s team was dominant in the first half, controlling the game and creating better chances, but they could not find a breakthrough.

The second half mirrored the first, as Morocco continued to create significant opportunities but could not find the back of the net. With neither team able to score, the match went straight to penalties.

In the end, Morocco kept their cool and held their nerve to secure a spot in the final, where they will face Mali, who defeated Burkina Faso 2-0 earlier in the day.

Morocco’s U17 team secured their place in the final of the Africa Cup of Nations after a tense penalty shootout victory over Côte d’Ivoire at El Bachir Stadium in Mohammedia.

The semi-final match ended in a goalless draw, but the young Atlas Cubs ultimately edged past the Elephants 4-3 in the penalty shootout. Nabil Baha’s team was dominant in the first half, controlling the game and creating better chances, but they were unable to find the breakthrough.

The second half mirrored the first, as Morocco continued to create significant opportunities but could not find the back of the net. With neither team able to score, the match went straight to penalties.

In the end, Morocco kept their cool and held their nerve to secure a spot in the final, where they will face Mali, who defeated Burkina Faso 2-0 earlier in the day.

Mali through to U17 AFCON after defeating Burkina Faso
by FSL News

Mali through to U17 AFCON final after defeating Burkina Faso

Mali secured their place in the final of the TotalEnergies CAF Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations with a decisive 2-0 victory over Burkina Faso in Tuesday’s semi-final held in Casablanca. (CAF Photo)

The young Eagles scored one goal in each half to advance to Saturday’s championship match, where they will face the winner of the second semi-final between hosts Morocco and Côte d’Ivoire, scheduled for later on Tuesday.

Mali took the lead in the 42nd minute when Soumaila Fané unleashed a powerful shot from outside the box, finding the top corner and leaving the Burkina Faso goalkeeper with no chance.

Despite a spirited response from the Stallions, Mali extended their lead midway through the second half. Mahamadou Traoré soared to meet Fané’s precise cross in the 74th minute, heading it home to secure the victory.

The match at Stade Larbi Zaouli was intense and physical, with Burkina Faso fighting hard but ultimately failing to penetrate Mali’s well-organized defense.

The Baby Stallions created several opportunities, including a close-range header from Halidou Diakité that went over the bar, but they lacked the finishing touch.

Burkina Faso finished the match with nine players after both Ali Koné and Alassana Bagayogo received second yellow cards in the second half, adding to their frustration.

Meanwhile, Mali exhibited maturity and tactical discipline throughout the contest, controlling key moments and managing the game with composure in the closing stages.

With this victory, Mali returns to the final of the U-17 AFCON for the first time since 2017, when they claimed the title. The West Africans are now just one match away from regaining continental glory.

Burkina Faso will compete against the loser of the second semi-final in the third-place playoff, which is also scheduled for Saturday.

U17: Burkina Faso v Mali, while Morocco squares off against Ivory Coast
by Football Sierra Leone

U17 Semis: Burkina Faso v Mali as Morocco squares off against Ivory Coast

The thrilling semi-finals of the U-17 Africa Cup of Nations are poised to electrify the evening on Tuesday, April 15, as youth teams clash for a coveted spot in the grand final.

The first encounter promises to be a captivating showdown as Burkina Faso faces off against Mali at the vibrant Larbi Zaouli Stadium, with the kick-off set for 18h00 CAT. This matchup brings together two spirited teams, both eager to make their mark in this prestigious tournament.

In anticipation of the matches, CAF Medical Manager, Dr. Sidiki Boubakary, shed light on the innovative use of MRI technology, which has played a pivotal role in combating age fraud in African youth football. “The landscape has transformed dramatically; we’ve seen a significant decline in overage players competing in the U-17 category. Today, we are witnessing only true U-17 boys on the pitch. Remarkably, there have been no protests regarding age discrepancies leading up to the current TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025,” he remarked.

The Burkinabe Stallions have showcased their prowess throughout the tournament, storming into the semi-finals with an astonishing 6-1 victory over the formidable COSAFA champions, Zambia. Their confidence and skill are palpable as they gear up for this high-stakes encounter.

Later in the evening, the second semi-final features an exhilarating clash between the hosts, Morocco, and the determined Young Elephants of Ivory Coast at the atmospheric El Bachir Stadium, kicking off at 21h00 CAT. The Moroccan squad is fervently aiming to assert their dominance and capture the title on home turf. Yet, they face a tenacious challenge as the Young Elephants, fresh off a triumphant victory over defending champions Senegal, look to disrupt the hosts’ ambitions and advance to the final.

Anticipation builds as these talented youngsters prepare to battle for glory, promising a night of unforgettable footballing drama.

AFCON U-17 Semi-Final Fixtures

18:00: Burkina Faso v Mali

21:00: Morocco v Ivory Coast

African match officials named to officiate at the FIFA Club World Cup
by Football Sierra Leone

African match officials named to officiate at the FIFA Club World Cup

Issa Sy from Senegal, Ibrahim Mutaz from Libya, Dahane Beida Mauritania in Photo, Mustapha Ghorbal from Algeria, and Jean Jacques Ndala from DR Congo were named among the 117 match officials from 41 member associations selected, including 35 referees, 58 assistant referees, and 24 video match officials, for the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup.

The FIFA Referees Committee has announced the match officials for the FIFA Club World Cup 2025™, set to take place from June 14 to July 13 in 12 stadiums across 11 U.S. host cities. This announcement follows seminars with referees from all six confederations.

The names mentioned highlight Africa’s growing influence in international football officiating and its role in shaping the game.

Ghorbal is among Africa’s most experienced referees, having officiated at the FIFA World Cup and CAF events. Ndala and Sy have also built strong reputations through their consistent performance in high-level matches, both in Africa and internationally.

This tournament will not only showcase club excellence but also introduce referees wearing body cameras for the first time, providing fans with unique insights into in-game decisions via DAZN.

FIFA Referees Committee Chairman Pierluigi Collina called this appointment a “privilege,” emphasizing its significance in a referee’s career.

As clubs compete in America this summer, Africa can take pride in its referees, who embody fair play and inspire a new generation of officials across the continent.

Sierra Leone Gear Up for U-20 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt 2025
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Sierra Leone Gear Up for U-20 Cup of Nations in Egypt

Sierra Leone’s Shooting Stars has intensified training for the TotalEnergies CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt, where they will face hosts Egypt, Zambia, South Africa, and Tanzania.

Sierra Leone will begin their AFCON U20 campaign against Zambia on April 27, followed by a match against host Egypt on the 30th.

Head Coach Mohamed Lamin Kamara has named 25 promising home-based players for the training camp. He will finalize his squad in the coming days. This important phase in the team’s preparation is designed to enhance the players’ fitness, skills, and teamwork as they strive for success in the tournament.

This championship is scheduled to take place from April 27 to May 18, 2025. Thirteen teams will compete in the tournament.

Group B has Nigeria, Tunisia, Kenya and Morocco while Group C comprises Senegal, Central Africa Republic, Congo DR and Ghana.

The top two teams from each group will advance to the quarter-finals, along with the two best third-placed teams.

The four highest-performing teams will qualify for the FIFA U20 World Cup in Chile, which will take place from September 27 to October 19

The draw establishes the atmosphere for what promises to be another memorable edition of one of Africa’s top youth competitions.

Groups for the TotalEnergies CAF Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations, Egypt 2025

Group A: Egypt, Zambia, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Tanzania

Group B: Nigeria, Tunisia, Kenya, Morocco

Group C: Senegal, Central African Republic, DR Congo, Ghana

Sierra Leone's Shooting Stars has intensified training for the TotalEnergies CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt
Sierra Leone's Shooting Stars has intensified training for the TotalEnergies CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt
Sierra Leone will begin their AFCON U20 campaign against Zambia on April 27, followed by a match against host Egypt on the 30th.
Sierra Leone will begin their AFCON U20 campaign against Zambia on April 27, followed by a match against host Egypt on the 30th.
Sierra Leone players getting ready for battle against some top African sides in U20 AFCON
Sierra Leone players getting ready for battle against some top African sides in U20 AFCON
Sierra Leone draw host Egypt, Zambia and South Africa in Group A
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Sierra Leone draw tough AFCON U20 opponents including host Egypt in Group A

The redraw for the Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) held in Cairo on Sunday has placed Sierra Leone in Group A alongside host Egypt, Zambia, South Africa, and Tanzania.

Sierra Leone will begin their AFCON U20 campaign against Zambia on April 27, followed by a match against host Egypt on the 30th.

Sierra Leone was originally placed in Group C, alongside Senegal, Kenya, and Zambia. However, the initial draw for Ivory Coast has been cancelled because the former host has decided to withdraw at the last minute.

The Shooting Stars from Sierra Leone are preparing to compete against hosts Egypt, Zambia, South Africa as well as Tanzania. This championship is scheduled to take place from April 27 to May 18, 2025. Thirteen teams will compete in the tournament.

Group B has Nigeria, Tunisia, Kenya and Morocco while Group C comprises Senegal, Central Africa Republic, Congo DR and Ghana.

The top two teams from each group will advance to the quarter-finals, along with the two best third-placed teams.

The four highest-performing teams will qualify for the FIFA U20 World Cup in Chile, which will take place from September 27 to October 19.

Kenya will represent the CECAFA region with Tanzania, as both teams reached the qualifiers final in Dar es Salaam last October. Tanzania won that match 2-1, but both teams qualified for the tournament.

Sierra Leone will begin their AFCON U20 campaign against Zambia on April 27, followed by a match against host Egypt on the 30th.
Sierra Leone will begin their AFCON U20 campaign against Zambia on April 27, followed by a match against host Egypt on the 30th.
The ten representatives from Africa for the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025, following the conclusion of the TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) play-offs on Saturday, has been confirmed
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Ten Africa’s FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025 places confirmed

The ten representatives from Africa for the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025, following the conclusion of the TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) play-offs on Saturday, has been confirmed.

Egypt and Uganda successfully secured the final two slots for the tournament with crucial victories in the play-off round. They will join Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, Mali, Morocco, Senegal, South Africa, Tunisia, and Zambia as the continent’s representatives on the global stage.

This upcoming tournament will be the largest in the history of the U-17 World Cup, as it will feature 48 teams for the first time. It is scheduled to take place from November 3 to 27, 2025, in Qatar.

Uganda has made history by qualifying for their first-ever U-17 World Cup after a remarkable 2-1 comeback victory over The Gambia. After conceding a goal in under a minute, James Bogere scored two goals in the 13th and 33rd minutes, securing Uganda’s place in the tournament.

Later, Egypt delighted their home supporters with a determined 2-1 win against Angola. A deflected strike from Abdel Aziz El Zoghby and a second-half goal from Hamza Mohamed Abdel Karim ensured Egypt’s success, despite Angola scoring a late goal.

The other eight African nations had already qualified by advancing to the knockout stages of the U-17 AFCON. This group includes Senegal, the defending African champions at the youth level, and Côte d’Ivoire, who demonstrated strong performance with a 4-2 victory over Mali.

Tunisia and South Africa also secured their places early by achieving impressive results in their respective groups, while the historically strong teams of Morocco and Zambia return to the global stage with high expectations.

Sierra Leone ponder new opponents for Cairo U20 AFCON draw
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Sierra Leone ponder new opponents for Cairo U20 AFCON draw

The final draw for the CAF Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) will take place in Egypt on Sunday, April 13, at 17:00 local time (15:00 GMT) at the Egyptian Football Association headquarters.

Sierra Leone was originally placed in Group C, alongside Senegal, Kenya, and Zambia. However, this group is now expected to change due to a redraw. The initial draw for Ivory Coast has been canceled because the former host has decided to withdraw at the last minute.

The tournament runs from April 27 to May 18, 2025. Thirteen teams will compete in the tournament. Group A will consist of five teams, while both Groups B and C will have four teams each.

The top two teams from each group will advance to the quarter-finals, along with the two best third-placed teams. The four highest-performing teams will qualify for the FIFA U20 World Cup in Chile, which will take place from September 27 to October 19.

Egypt, as the host country, is in position A1 in the draw. Nigeria, who came in third in the last tournament, is placed in position B1, and defending champions Senegal are in position C1.

Tunisia, Zambia, and the Central African Republic, who qualified last time, will be in Pot 1 and sorted into one of the three groups. Teams that did not qualify for the last tournament, such as Morocco, debutants Sierra Leone, Ghana, Tanzania, Kenya, South Africa, and DR Congo, will be in Pot 2 and will fill the remaining spots in the groups.

DRAW PROCEDURES

Seeded teams: Egypt will be in position A1; Nigeria will be in B1 and Senegal will be C1.

Pot 1 for the teams from Level 2: Tunisia, Zambia and Central African Republic

Pot 2 of the teams of Level 3: Morocco, Sierra Leone, Ghana, Tanzania, Kenya, South Africa & DR Congo

The teams drawn from Pot 1 will go respectively into positions A2, B2 & C2

The teams drawn from the Pot 2 will go respectively into positions A3, B3, C3, A4, B4, C4 & A5

CAF U-20 AFCON, EGYPT 2025 QUALIFIED TEAMS

CECAFA: Tanzania, Kenya

COSAFA: South Africa, Zambia

UNAF: Egypt (hosts), Morocco, Tunisia

UNIFFAC: DR Congo, Central African Republic

WAFU A: Senegal, Sierra Leone

WAFU B: Nigeria, Ghana