Category: Sport News

Defending champions Senegal squeeze into U20 AFCON quarter-finals
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Defending champions Senegal squeeze into U20 AFCON quarter-finals

Defending champions Senegal kept their title hopes alive with a tough 2-0 win over DR Congo in their last Group C match at the TotalEnergies CAF U20 Africa Cup of Nations in Suez on Thursday.

Cheikh Thiam and Ibrahima Dieng scored the goals that helped Senegal advance to the quarter-finals as runners-up, finishing ahead of DR Congo on goal difference.

In another match, Ghana’s 1-0 win over the Central African Republic meant Senegal needed a win to progress, as they had only one point from their first two games.

Starting the match with urgency, Senegal earned a penalty in the 9th minute when Clayton Diandy was fouled in the box. Thiam’s penalty was saved, but he quickly scored from the rebound in the 11th minute, giving Senegal an early lead.

DR Congo put up a strong fight, with Messy Manitu and Frédéric Ngoyala forcing saves from Senegal’s Babacar Ndiaye in the second half. However, they struggled to find the net.

In the 81st minute, Senegal was awarded a second penalty after Dieu Kalonji’s handball, which Dieng converted for the win.

With this victory, Senegal finished second in Group C with four points, behind Ghana’s seven, and will face the Group D winners in the quarter-finals.

DR Congo had earlier victories against the Central African Republic and a draw with Ghana but couldn’t maintain clean sheets, costing them crucial points. Senegal aims to become the first team since Nigeria in 2005 to win the U20 AFCON title again.

Ghana U20 beat Central African Republic to top Group A
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Ghana U20 beat Central African Republic to top Group A

Ghana U20 won a tough match against the Central African Republic (CAR) 1-0 on Thursday. This victory allowed them to top Group C and secure a spot in the quarter-finals of the TotalEnergies CAF U20 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt 2025.

Joseph Opoku scored the only goal in the 84th minute at the Suez Canal Stadium. Until then, Ghana had controlled the game with most of the possession and chances, but they couldn’t score. With this result, Ghana finished the group with seven points from three matches. Senegal also advanced to the knockout stage after beating DR Congo 2-0 in another match.

CAR needed to win to move on but spent most of the game on the defensive, struggling to create chances. Ghana’s players, like Aziz Issah and Andrews Adjabeng, tried to break the deadlock, but they had trouble finishing.

The winning goal came when Joseph Aidoo made a strong run on a counterattack and passed to Opoku in the box. Opoku scored confidently, sending the Ghana bench into celebration. CAR couldn’t mount a comeback in the final minutes as Ghana controlled the game to secure their second win of the tournament.

Ghana U20 coach Desmond Ofei expressed pride in his team’s patience and tactical discipline following their progression to the knockout stage. Ghana needed only a draw to advance after previously defeating Senegal and drawing with DR Congo, while CAR ended with just one point from three matches, a drop from their 2021 quarter-final performance.

This marks the first time Ghana has gone unbeaten in the group stage since 2013, as they aim for their fifth U20 AFCON title. The final lineup for the knockout stages will be announced after all group matches conclude on Friday.

Sierra Leone U20 Cup of Nations quarter-final buildup begins
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Sierra Leone U20 Cup of Nations quarter-final buildup begins

As the Sierra Leone national team, known as the Shooting Stars, finished a demanding morning practice at the training field of the Mercure Hotel in Ismailia, the excitement for the quarter-final match in the U20 Cup of Nations is mounting.

All 26 squad members attended this meeting, highlighting their unity and dedication as they prepare for a hallowed event.

Every player Head Coach Mohamed Lamin Kamara has fit and ready for the important game set for Monday. So far in the tournament, Sierra Leone has demonstrated amazing resilience by winning two outstanding matches against Tanzania and host Egypt, as well as a hard-fought draw against Zambia.

Their Group A loss to South Africa presented a tough setback, but their play has been good enough to secure a spot in the knockout round.

There is clear optimism among the coaches and players as the squad sets out on this road toward their first-ever quarter-final in the U20 Cup of Nations.

As they prepare for Cairo, they have adopted a renewed tactical approach stressing teamwork and strategic play, which they think would be quite useful. The Shooting Stars are set to make history, their spirits high and their resolve obvious.

Striker Alie Conteh Nets Hat-Trick for Mjondalen IF
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Striker Alie Conteh Nets Hat-trick for Mjondalen IF

Sierra Leone international Alie Conteh scored a hat-trick as Mjondalen IF defeated Strømmen 3-1 in the Norwegian NM Cupen third round on Wednesday, advancing to the fourth round for the first time since 2019.

The young MIF team conceded a goal from a set piece, and against a team in the flow zone, it could be difficult to turn things around.

Conteh’s Mjøndalen pressed Strømmen and equalised just before halftime when Jonas Bruusgaard’s cross was tapped in by Conteh. Alie Conteh smelled the opportunity and elegantly tipped the ball into the goal with his right foot. Thus, it was 1-1 at halftime.

In the second half, Conteh capitalised on another Bruusgaard pass, striking the ball past the goalkeeper to give Mjondalen the lead.

Despite Strømmen’s late pressure, Mjondalen’s defence held firm. In stoppage time, Conteh completed his hat-trick, sealing the victory with a clinical finish after breaking past three defenders.

Morocco Under-20 finished their group stage with an unbeaten record, winning 3-1 against Tunisia at the Suez Canal Stadium. This victory secured the top spot in Group B of the TotalEnergies CAF U20 Africa Cup of Nations, Egypt 2025.
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Morocco U-20 pick Cup of Nations quarter final ticket

Morocco Under-20 finished their group stage with an unbeaten record, winning 3-1 against Tunisia at the Suez Canal Stadium. This victory secured the top spot in Group B of the TotalEnergies CAF U20 Africa Cup of Nations, Egypt 2025.

Ayman Arguigue scored the first goal in the first half, setting the pace for Morocco. Late goals from Smail Bakhty and substitute Jones El Abdellaoui clinched the win. Tunisia briefly tied the game with an equalizer from Anis Doubal early in the second half, but they could not keep up and must now wait to see if they advance as one of the best third-placed teams.

The match was crucial for both teams, as they aimed for a knockout spot, depending on the outcome of the Nigeria vs. Kenya game, which ended in a 2-2 draw. Morocco’s victory ensured they finished first with seven points, while Nigeria came in second with five.

Morocco started strongly, putting pressure on Tunisia’s defense. Their efforts paid off just before halftime when Arguigue scored in the 44th minute after a great setup from Zahouani.

After halftime, Tunisia tied the game in the 53rd minute with a long-range goal from Doubal. However, Morocco regained the lead in the 86th minute when Bakhty scored during a goalmouth scramble, and El Abdellaoui sealed the victory with a stoppage time goal from a quick counterattack.

This win solidified Morocco’s unbeaten streak in the group stage, showcasing a strong defense and sharp attack. Tunisia, despite showing some quality, finished third with three points and a negative goal difference, and their hopes of advancing to the quarter-finals as one of the best third-placed teams are dimmed by this heavy loss.

Nigeria through to quarter-finals after draw with Kenya in U20 AFCON
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Nigeria through to quarter-finals after draw with Kenya in U20 AFCON

Nigeria secured a spot in the quarter-finals of the TotalEnergies CAF U20 Africa Cup of Nations by drawing 2-2 with Kenya at the 30 June Stadium in Cairo on Wednesday.

With this result and Morocco’s 3-1 win over Tunisia in another Group B match, Nigeria finished second in the group with five points. Kenya ended their tournament with just one point from three games.

Though already eliminated, Kenya played well and took the lead twice. Kevin Injehu scored a penalty in the sixth minute after a handball by Emmanuel Chukwu was reviewed by VAR.

Nigeria quickly equalized when Kparobo Arierhi scored in the 13th minute after receiving a pass from Simon Cletus. Both teams created chances, and Kenya went ahead again in the 68th minute when substitute William Gitama scored from a set-piece.

But Nigeria equalized just five minutes later. Captain Daniel Bameyi scored a penalty after Rickson Mendos was fouled in the box. Nigeria tried hard for a win in the final minutes, with Divine Oliseh and Tahir Maigana both close to scoring, but Kenya’s defense held strong.

Kenya finished with one point, having scored in all three matches despite being eliminated. Morocco topped Group B with seven points, followed by Nigeria with five points, Tunisia with three, and Kenya with one.

Next, Nigeria will prepare for the quarter-finals and will face an opponent yet to be announced from another group.

Sierra Leone suffer first defeat in U20 Cup of Nations
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Sierra Leone suffer first defeat in U20 Cup of Nations

South Africa showed their offensive power with a strong 4-1 win over Sierra Leone in their CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations Group A match on Tuesday evening in Ismaila.

The match started with South Africa quickly taking control. Jody Ahshene scored the first goal in the 13th minute with a precise right-footed shot from outside the box, assisted by Shakeel April.

Sierra Leone tried to respond, but the first half ended with South Africa leading 1-0, thanks to their strong defense.

In the second half, Amajita increased their attacking efforts. Neo Rapoo scored the second goal in the 60th minute during a fast counter-attack led by Jody Ahshene.

Sierra Leone got one back in the 69th minute when Momoh Kamara scored from a cross by Osman Kamara, giving his team a boost of confidence.

However, South Africa quickly took back control. Substitute Thabang Mahlangu made a big impact by scoring two quick goals—first in the 86th minute with Neo Rapoo’s assist, and then in the 89th minute after a set piece involving Patrick Autata—securing a clear win for South Africa.

This win places South Africa in second place, while Sierra Leone remains at the top of Group A despite the loss.

TotalEnergies CAF U-20 AFCON action continues on Wednesday with Nigeria playing Kenya and Tunisia facing Morocco, both matches expected to be exciting.

U20: Arsenal's Kamara, Reading defender Kanu start for Sierra Leone
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

U20: Arsenal’s Kamara, Reading defender Kanu start for Sierra Leone

Sierra Leone U20 head coach Mohamed Lamin Kamara has made seven changes to his squad for Tuesday’s Cup of Nations final Group A match against South Africa, which kicks off at 9 PM local time at the Suez Canal Stadium.

Arsenal’s U21 player, Osman Kamara, an attacking midfielder, has been given the opportunity to make his mark in the squad with his first start. Osman made his U20 debut in the previous match, which ended in a draw against Zambia.

Goalkeeper Mamadou Wurie Jalloh has been rested, and Dauda Bangura from East End Lions will take his place. In defense, young defender Abraham Kanu will make his first start and appearance in the competition, partnering with Alpha Turay in central defense.

The Shooting Stars are the first team to reach the quarterfinals of the competition, but today’s match is also crucial for securing the top spot in their group.

In a 4-1-4-1 formation, Alusine Dumbuya replaces Sallieu Bah in midfield, Osman Kamara steps in for Mohamed Fofanah, Abraham Kanu takes the place of Saidu Bangura, Sheku Kallon replaces Alpha Kabia, and Sulaiman Kargbo comes in for Samuel Gandi.

A victory will see Sierra Leone become the winners of Group A in the race to the Chile 2025 U20 World Cup, as they await to learn their quarter-final opponent.

Sierra Leone's Hindolo Mustapha a target of top European clubs
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Sierra Leone’s Hindolo Mustapha a target of top European clubs

Hindolo Mustapha, just 18 years old, is now drawing much more notice than his years. The gifted Sierra Leonean midfielder whose contract with Crystal Palace ends this summer has surfaced as among the most in demand candidates on the transfer market—and it’s clear why.

Mustapha has quietly enjoyed a standout season, with 24 appearances, 11 goals, and 6 assists to his name. However, statistics only tell part of the story. His composure on the ball, ability to control the tempo of the game, and skill in making decisive runs have attracted the interest of scouts across Europe.

He remains calm under pressure and fearless in attack, showcasing a level of maturity that is rare for someone his age.

Now, the race for his signature is intensifying. Sources close to the player indicate that multiple offers are on the table. While some clubs are considering loan moves, others are determined to secure a permanent deal.

Among the interested parties are two Dutch powerhouses: Ajax and Feyenoord, both renowned for nurturing young talent into world-class players.

For Mustapha, the decision ahead could significantly shape the next phase of a career that is already filled with promise.

Minnesota United FC sign Sierra Leone U20 star Momoh I Kamara on loan
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Minnesota United sign Sierra Leone U20 star Momoh I Kamara on loan

Minnesota United has confirmed a one-year loan signing of Sierra Leone’s U20 Cup of Nations star Momoh I Kamara from Mattia Football Club through December 2025, with an option to buy. Once Kamara gets his P-1 Visa, he will be joining MNUFC2.

“Momoh is an exciting young player with a natural feel for the game, capable of creating scoring threats,” said Amos Magee, MNUFC’s Head of Development. “We look forward to him joining MNUFC2 and building on his national team succes,” the club said in their statement.

Kamara expressed his excitement about joining, stating, “This is a dream come true and a significant step forward in my career. I’m ready to give my all for the fans and my teammates.”

Khaled El-Ahmad, MNUFC Chief Soccer Officer, praised the recruitment team for successfully adding talent like Kamara, Putt, and Kabia, highlighting the promising future for the club.

Momoh Kamara began his playing career at a young age with Mattia FC, where he played from 2017 to 2022. He briefly played for Diamond Stars Football Club in 2022-2023 before moving to Leixões SC B, competing with the Portuguese team from 2023 to 2024. Following his time at Leixões, he returned to Mattia FC before joining MNUFC2.

Internationally, Kamara has represented Sierra Leone at nearly every level, starting with the U17 team and progressing to the U20 and senior national teams. He is currently competing alongside MNUFC2 teammate Alpha Kabia in the 2025 U20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

In the first three matches of the group stage, Kamara has scored three goals, notably a hat trick against Egypt on April 30, helping propel his country to the top of the group and secure a berth in the quarterfinals. 

The 19-year-old also made appearances for the senior team in March 2025 during two FIFA World Cup qualifier games, playing in group stage matches against Guinea-Bissau and Egypt.

VITALS

  • Momoh Kamara
  • Position: Midfielder
  • Height: 5’7”
  • Date of Birth: 5/6/2005 (19 years old)
  • Place of Birth: Kambia Town, Sierra Leone
  • Hometown: East End, Freetown, Sierra Leone
  • Previous Club: Mattia Football Club
Momoh I. Kamara has won back-to-back Man of the Match awards in the ongoing U20 AFCON
Momoh I. Kamara has won back-to-back Man of the Match awards in the ongoing U20 AFCON