Category: Sport News

10-man Mali knock-out Tunisia in penalty shootout
by FSL News

10-man Mali advance after penalty shootout win over Tunisia

Mali defeated Tunisia in a penalty shootout 3-2 after a 1-1 draw in their Round of 16 match at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, despite being reduced to ten men within the first thirty minutes.

The thrilling clash took place on Saturday at the Stade Mohammed V in Casablanca, Morocco, with El Bilal Touré stepping up to convert the decisive penalty, securing a hard-fought victory for Les Aigles.

Both sides approached the match with caution, resulting in limited scoring opportunities. Early on, Mali’s chances took a hit when right back Woyo Coulibaly was shown a red card for a late challenge on Hannibal Mejbri, leaving his team in a precarious position.

Tunisia struggled to find their rhythm against a determined Malian side, lacking the attacking flair to capitalise on its opportunities. Despite their physical play, Tunisia missed several set pieces, while Mali threatened on the counter-attack.

In the 89th minute, Tunisia found inspiration when Elias Saad crossed to substitute Firas Chaouat, who scored with a flicked header, seemingly securing a quarterfinal spot. However, a late penalty for Mali, converted by Sinayoko, levelled the score and sent the match into extra time.

The deadlock continued through extra time, leading to a penalty shootout. Tunisia initially took the lead, but missed penalties from Bissouma and Abdi proved costly. Diarra’s save against Ben Romdhane opened the door for Touré, who scored the winning penalty for Mali.

Mali advances to face Senegal in the quarterfinals on January 9 in Tangier, following Senegal’s earlier win over Sudan.

Senegal through to AFCON quarter-final after defeating Sudan
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Senegal through to AFCON quarter-finals after defeating Sudan

Senegal staged a remarkable comeback to secure their place in the quarter-finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, triumphing over Sudan with a 3-1 victory at the Grande de Tanger stadium on Saturday.

The match got off to a surprising start, with Sudan taking the lead just six minutes into the game. Aamir Abdallah showcased his striking prowess, netting a well-placed shot that caught the Senegalese defence off guard and sent their supporters into a frenzy.

For the first 25 minutes, Sudan appeared firmly in control, showing confidence and creating opportunities that had the Senegalese side on the defensive.

However, the tide began to turn in the 29th minute when Pape Gueye, a midfielder from Villarreal, found the back of the net, levelling the score and shifting the momentum in favour of Senegal.

He struck again just before halftime in the 45th minute, leaving the Sudanese players shaken and struggling to regain their composure.

As the second half unfolded, Senegal continued to assert their dominance, with Ibrahim Mbaye adding a third goal in a decisive moment, solidifying the Senegalese lead and effectively putting the match beyond Sudan’s reach.

In the final stages of the match, despite being three goals up with just five minutes remaining, the Senegalese team remained aggressive and tenacious, fighting for every ball with determination.

This perseverance was epitomised moments later when Pape Gueye was substituted off for Pathe Ciss after preparing to take a corner from the left side.

Sullay Kaikai shortlisted for Cambridge Player of the Month
by Football Sierra Leone

Sullay Kaikai shortlisted for Cambridge Player of the Month

Sierra Leone's Sullay Kaikai is in the running for the latest December 2025 Player of the Month award for Cambridge United.

Kaikai has been a crucial player for the League Two club, contributing vital goals and assists in recent matches. As a result, he has been shortlisted for this prestigious honour.

Supporters can now cast their votes for the Girton Golf Club Player of the Month for December 2025. United had another impressive month, remaining unbeaten in the league and advancing in the FA Cup with a solid win over Stockport.

This month’s nominees include Sullay Kaikai, Mamadou Jobe, James Gibbons, and George Hoddle.

Player of the Month sponsors, Girton Golf Club, are offering 10% off membership to Season Ticket Holders and Abbey Access members.

Girton Golf Club is within easy reach of Huntingdon Road as well as the A14 and M11. Founded in 1936, they have a beautiful and challenging 18-hole parkland course, a modern clubhouse and extensive practice and coaching facilities. 

Girton Golf Club is a Community Amateur Sports Club, owned by the members, and visitors are welcome. Whether you’re a beginner just picking up the sport or a seasoned player looking to hone your skills, Girton Golf Club caters to all.

Bradford City eye a loan move for Crystal Palace attacker Hindolo Mustapha
by FSL News

Bradford City eye a loan move for Crystal Palace attacker Hindolo Mustapha

Bradford City, currently in pursuit of promotion from League One, is one of several clubs vying for the services of the 19-year-old player following the recent termination of his loan at FC Nürnberg at the start of December.

The player received multiple offers for his first senior loan but chose to join German side FC Nürnberg in the 2. Bundesliga, seeking higher competition. However, after not meeting the expectations of manager Miroslav Klose, he made only two appearances for their reserve team.

Crystal Palace is open to loaning him again for more senior experience, preferably within England, for his development. Walsall in League Two has expressed ongoing interest, and Portsmouth manager John Mousinho has scouted him during several matches.

The player is contracted with Crystal Palace until 2028, having made 29 appearances for the Under-21 team last season, scoring 11 goals and providing seven assists.

The youngster is a versatile forward and was named Palace’s Under-21 Player of the Season, nominated for the Premier League 2 Player of the Season award.

Internationally, he has represented Sierra Leone three times and trained with Crystal Palace’s first team during their mid-season camp in Marbella last year.

Tunisia and Mali set for a cracking AFCON knockout contest
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Tunisia and Mali set for a cracking AFCON knockout contest

Brave Mali set to go up against North African opposition Tunisia in the round of 16 at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, taking place at Mohamed V Stadium in Casablanca on Saturday.

Mali advanced to the knockout phase by finishing second in Group A, securing two draws against Zambia and Morocco, and a goalless draw against Comoros. Despite being unbeaten, they didn’t achieve any victories in the group.

In their last six competitive matches, Mali has shown tough composure, with two wins and four draws. Historically, they are consistent AFCON performers, frequently reaching the knockout stages, though they have yet to win the tournament.

Tunisia reached the round of 16 by finishing second in Group C, starting with a 3-1 victory over Uganda, followed by a loss to Nigeria and a draw with Tanzania. Their group stage performance highlighted both attacking potential and defensive vulnerabilities.

Tunisia’s depth of experience in the Africa Cup of Nations, including their previous title in 2004, gives them an advantage as they approach the knockout stage of football.

Both teams have faced each other 13 times since 1994, with Tunisia winning six matches, Mali four, and three ending in draws. Recent meetings have been closely contested.

Mali’s head coach, Tom Saintfiet, made four changes to the lineup that drew with Morocco. However, they will be without key midfielder Amadou Haidara, who is suspended following a red card in their last match. There is positive news regarding injuries, as Sikou Niakate is back in training.

Tunisia’s head coach, Sami Trabelsi, has a nearly full-strength squad, with no suspensions reported. The main concern is Mohamed Ali Ben Romdhane, who suffered a knee injury, but initial assessments suggest it is not serious. Additionally, Elias Achouri is expected to return to full fitness soon after a minor injury.

Mali’s possible starting lineup:

Diarra; W. Coulibaly, Diaby, O. Camara, Gassama; Dieng, Doumbia, L. Coulibaly, Sangare, Bissouma; Sinayoko

Tunisia’s possible starting lineup:

Dahmen; Abdi, Talbi, Bronn, Valery; Skhiri, Gharbi, Mejbri; Achouri, Tounekti, Mastouri

AFCON 2025 Round of 16 fixtures – Saturday, 3 January 2026 
  • Mali vs Tunisia 20h00 local time / 19h00 GMT
    Stade Mohammed V, Casablanca
Senegal and Sudan last-16 Cup of Nations 2025 preview
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Senegal and Sudan Last-16 Cup of Nations 2025 preview

Senegal aims to overcome the disappointment of being eliminated in the round of 16 of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations when they face Sudan at Grande de Tanger on Saturday.

The Terenga Lions performed admirably in the group stage, achieving a 3-0 victory over Botswana, a 1-1 draw with DR Congo, and a decisive win against Benin, concluding the group with seven points. They topped Group D thanks to their superior goal difference compared to DR Congo.

While Senegal’s strong performance in the first round has resulted in a more favourable matchup against Sudan, they are mindful of the potential challenges posed by their opponents.

In the previous edition of the tournament, Senegal was unexpectedly eliminated by the eventual champions, the Ivory Coast, at a similar stage.

Confidence is high for Senegal as they prepare to advance past Sudan, particularly given their status as one of the continent’s most in-form teams, with three victories in their last four matches (one draw). They have excelled offensively, scoring seven goals while conceding just one.

Sudan, on the other hand, has emerged as one of the surprise teams of this round, reaching the last 16 despite winning only one of their three group matches.

Their campaign began with a 3-0 defeat to Algeria, followed by a hard-fought 1-0 victory against Equatorial Guinea. They faced a setback in their final group match against Burkina Faso, losing 2-0. Nonetheless, their single win was sufficient to secure their place as one of the best third-placed teams.

Saturday’s match against Senegal presents a significant challenge for Sudan, particularly given their recent performance of just two wins in their last 15 matches.

In terms of head-to-head statistics, Senegal has historically dominated encounters with Sudan, winning all of their last seven meetings, which included four draws. Over these contests, Senegal has scored eight goals while Sudan has managed only one.

A key player to watch for Senegal is Nicolas Jackson, who made a noteworthy entrance into the tournament by scoring twice in their opening match. While he has not added to his goal tally since, the expectation is that he will seek to enhance his performance against a less competitive opponent on Saturday.

In terms of team composition, Senegal will be without captain Kalidou Koulibaly, who was sent off in their last match against Benin. Diao will also be unavailable due to a thigh injury, and Ilay Camara is sidelined with a muscle injury.

For Senegal, the probable lineup includes: Elneel, Awad, Saeed Ahmed, Karshom, Khamis, Taifour, Alhassan Omer, Nooh, Eisa, and Abdelrahman.

Sudan’s anticipated lineup features: Mendy, Jakobs, Niakhate, Seck, Diatta, P. Gueye, I. Gueye, Ndiaye, Mane, Sarr, and Jackson.

AFCON 2025 Round of 16 fixtures
Saturday, 3 January 2026 – Senegal vs Sudan, 17:00 –Grand Stade de Tangier
Intriguing Cup of Nations AFCON last-16 matches confirmed
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Intriguing Cup of Nations AFCON last-16 matches confirmed

The fixtures for the Round of 16 in the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations 2025 in Morocco have been finalized, following an exhilarating group stage that showcased the exceptional talent in African football.

The knockout stage is scheduled to take place from Saturday, January 3, to Tuesday, January 6, featuring two matches each day at 17:00 local time (16:00 GMT) and 20:00 local time (19:00 GMT) as teams compete for a place in the quarter-finals.

Morocco, the host nation, will face Tanzania at the Stade Prince Moulay Abdellah in Rabat on Sunday at 17:00 local time (16:00 GMT). The Moroccan team, which topped Group A, is poised to seek their first continental title in 50 years, supported by enthusiastic local fans.

Simultaneously, South Africa and Cameroon will compete later that same day at the Al Medina Stadium in Rabat at 20:00 local time (19:00 GMT). This match will feature coach Hugo Broos against the national team he previously led to victory in 2017.

The Round of 16 will commence on Saturday with the matchup between 2021 champions Senegal and Sudan at the Grand Stade de Tangier at 17:00 local time (16:00 GMT). Following this, Mali will play against Tunisia at 20:00 local time (19:00 GMT) at the Stade Mohammed V in Casablanca, with Mali striving for their first continental championship while Tunisia aims to replicate their triumph from 2004.

Egypt, the record seven-time champions of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations, are looking to end a lengthy wait for the trophy since their last victory in 2010. They will face Benin on Monday at 17:00 local time (16:00 GMT) at the Grand Stade de Agadir.

That evening, Nigeria, one of the standout teams from the group stages, will take on Mozambique at the Complexe Sportif de Fès at 20:00 local time (19:00 GMT) as they aim to improve upon their silver medal finish at the 2023 tournament.

On Tuesday, Algeria will meet the Democratic Republic of Congo at the Stade Prince Heritier Moulay El Hassan in Rabat at 17:00 local time (16:00 GMT). The Round of 16 will conclude with a match between defending champions Côte d’Ivoire and Burkina Faso at the Grand Stade de Marrakech at 20:00 local time (19:00 GMT).

The quarter-finals are set to be held on January 9-10, with the final taking place on January 18 at the Stade Prince Moulay Abdellah.

TOTALENERGIES CAF AFCON MOROCCO 2025 ROUND OF 16 FIXTURES
  • Saturday, 3 January 2026 – Senegal vs Sudan
  • 17h00 local time / 16h00 GMT
  • Grand Stade de Tangier
  • Mali vs Tunisia – 20h00 local time / 19h00 GMT
  • Stade Mohammed V, Casablanca
  •  
  • Sunday, 4 January 2026.
  • Morocco vs Tanzania – 17h00 local time / 16h00 GMT 
  • Stade Prince Moulay Abdellah, Rabat
  • South Africa vs Cameroon
  • 20h00 local time / 19h00 GMT
  • Stade Al Medina, Rabat
 
  • Monday, 5 January 2026
  • Egypt vs Benin
  • 17h00 local time / 16h00 GMT
  • Grand Stade de Agadir
  • Nigeria vs Mozambique
  • 20h00 local time / 19h00 GMT
  • Complexe Sportif de Fès
  •  
  • Tuesday, 6 January 2026
  • Algeria vs DR Congo
  • 17h00 local time / 16h00 GMT
  • Stade Prince Heritier Moulay El Hassan, Rabat
  • Cote d’Ivoire vs Burkina Faso
  • 20h00 local time / 19h00 GMT
  • Grand Stade de Marrakech
Senegal thrash Benin as DR Congo progress with a heavy win
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Senegal thrash Benin as DR Congo progress with a heavy win

Senegal secured a position in the Round of 16 by defeating Benin with a decisive 3-0 victory in their final Group D match at the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The match, held in Tangiers, showcased Senegal’s strong performance, beginning with a header from Abdoulaye Seck in the 38th minute, assisted by Krépin Diatta’s well-executed set piece.

Sadio Mané later provided a critical pass to Habib Diallo, who extended the lead with a composed finish in the 62nd minute.

Despite Kalidou Koulibaly receiving a red card after a VAR review in the 71st minute, Senegal demonstrated resilience and maintained their advantage, culminating in a penalty converted by Cherif Ndiaye in stoppage time.

This victory confirms Senegal’s position at the top of Group D, while Benin also advances to the Round of 16 as one of the best third-placed teams.

In a parallel match, DR Congo triumphed over Botswana with a convincing 3-0 scoreline, securing second place in Group D.

Gael Kakuta delivered an outstanding performance, contributing two goals and an assist, illustrating his pivotal role in the team’s success.

Nathaniel Mbuku opened the scoring, with Kakuta converting a penalty just before halftime and subsequently completing his brace.

This result positions DR Congo for an upcoming match against Algeria in the Round of 16.

Tunisia progress as Nigeria wrap-up Group D with a comfortable win
by FSL News

Tunisia progress as Nigeria wrap up Group C with a comfortable win

At the Olympic Stadium in Rabat, Tunisia progressed to the Africa Cup of Nations round of sixteen after their 1–1 draw with Tanzania on Tuesday.

Tunisia started strong, keeping possession early, but failed to increase their pace. They threatened the goal with Ismael Gharbi, whose powerful shot hit the post.

Just before halftime, Tunisia scored. Hazem Mastouri was fouled in the box by Bakari Mwamnyeto, and after a long VAR review, Tunisia was given a penalty. Gharbi converted the penalty, putting Tunisia ahead 1–0.

The first half was low in energy, but Tunisia managed their lead comfortably. After halftime, Tunisia chose to defend their lead instead of attacking further. This cautious strategy allowed Tanzania to gain confidence and push forward.

Tanzania found their chance in the 54th minute when Feisal Salum made a great shot from the edge of the area. The ball surprised goalkeeper Aymen Dahmen and went into the netlevellingng the score.

In the final minutes, both teams made substitutions and appeared satisfied with a 1–1 draw. This result secured Tunisia’s place in the Round of 16 as the group’s second-placed team, while Tanzania kept hopes alive for qualification as one of the best third-placed teams.

Tunisia’s Coach Sami Trabelsi emphasised the importance of qualifying, stating, “We haven’t performed well in recent years, so this matters. We need to improve for the stronger teams ahead.” Tanzania’s Coach, Miguel Gamond, expressed pride in his team’s effort, noting the significance of this qualification for Tanzanian football.

Nigeria topped the group with a 3-1 victory over Uganda, effectively ending Uganda’s campaign. Nigeria’s Paul Onuachu opened the scoring in the 28th minute, while Raphael Onyedika scored twice after Uganda’s Salim Magoola received a red card in the 56th minute. Uganda managed to score in the 75th minute through Rogers Mato.

Nigeria finished with three wins, and Onyedika, named Man of the Match, reflected on his happiness and the need for focus in both practice and games.

Comoros, Zambia and Zimbabwe eliminated from AFCON 2025
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Comoros, Zambia and Zimbabwe have been eliminated from AFCON 2025

After the intense third round of matches, three nations have faced elimination from the 2025 Cup of Nations.

Comoros drew 0-0 with Mali. Despite this draw, Mali secured a spot in the knockout stages of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations 2025.  They finished their final Group A match at the Mohammed V Stadium in Casablanca on Monday night without scoring.

As a result, Comoros departed the tournament in third place with two points, falling short of qualification as one of the best third-placed teams.

Zambia lost 3-0 to the host team, Morocco. Morocco topped Group A and advanced to the round of sixteen after their decisive victory over Zambia in their last group match on Monday night.

Moses Sichone – Zambia Coach: “It was a tough day for us. We gave Morocco too much respect, and some players seemed nervous. Congratulations to Morocco; they took advantage of our lack of confidence. We improved in the second half, but it was too late.”

Zimbabwe lost 3-2 to South Africa. They finished at the bottom of Group B with no wins, one draw, and two losses.

In a contest shaped more by tension than creativity, Mali did just enough to secure the point they required to finish second in the group and advance to the Round of 16, while Comoros’ hopes of extending their tournament ended despite a spirited display.

Zimbabwe coach Mario Marinica stated, “We knew South Africa would dominate at times since they like to control the ball. We capitalised on opportunities and were dangerous in transition, which helped us regain control of the match. At this level, every mistake is costly. We focused on staying organised, winning duels, and controlling second balls.”