Category: Football Africa

Algeria reach FIFA Arab Cup quarter-finals, Egypt eliminated
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Algeria reach FIFA Arab Cup quarter-finals, Egypt eliminated

Algeria won 2-0 against Iraq on December 9 during the FIFA Arab Cup 2025 at the Khalifa International Stadium in Al-Rayyan, Qatar as fellow North African side Egypt were eliminated.

They needed just a draw to reach the quarter-finals, but performed better to top Group D. Algeria benefited when Iraq’s Hussein Ali was sent off in the fifth minute. They scored their first goal just before half-time.

Redouane Berkane headed a free-kick back across the goal, where Mohamed Amine Tougai finished it with a header. Later, a mistake between Iraq’s goalkeeper Fahad Talib and defender Saad Natiq led to an own goal that confirmed Algeria’s win.

As group winners, Algeria will play against the UAE, while Iraq will face Jordan in the quarter-finals.

Egypt 0-3 Jordan

Jordan defeated Egypt in the FIFA Arab Cup, concluding Egypt’s campaign without a win.

The match took place at Al Bayt Stadium, with Jordan scoring through Mohammad Abuhasheesh (19 minutes) and Mohammad Abu Zraiq (41 minutes).

Abu Zraiq was named Player of the Match. Jordan had a third goal disallowed for handball, while Egypt nearly scored but hit the post. The victory was sealed in added time by Ali Olwan, who scored a penalty following a foul in the box.

Wilfried Zaha returns to Côte d’Ivoire squad for Cup of Nations
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Wilfried Zaha returns to Côte d’Ivoire squad for Cup of Nations

Wilfried Zaha has been named to coach Emerse Faé's 26-man squad for the 2025 TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations while Simon Adingra is left out.

The announcement was made on Tuesday as the defending champions confirmed their selection for Morocco.  Zaha, at 33, returns after nearly two years, following a strong season with Charlotte FC in MLS, where he scored 10 goals and assisted six times.  

Faé aims to blend experience with young talent as they seek to defend the title they won in 2024. Discussions with Zaha had been ongoing for months, and his recent form aligns with the team’s attacking needs.  

Jean-Michaël Seri also returns after a long injury layoff.  

Younger players like Yan Diomandé, Amad Diallo, and Bazoumana Touré remain in the squad, reflecting Faé’s strategy to refresh the team.  

Adingra’s notable exclusion is due to limited playing time at Sunderland this season, along with the absence of Nicolas Pépé, Jérémie Boga, and Clément Akpa.  

Torino’s Wilfried Singo is out due to injury. The squad includes two reserves, Parfait Guiagon and Evann Guessand, on standby for any withdrawals.  

Côte d’Ivoire will compete in Group F with Cameroon, Gabon, and Mozambique, and Faé hopes the squad’s mix will lead to a strong performance in Morocco.  

SQUAD

GOALKEEPERS: Yahia Fofana (Caykur Rizespor, Turkey), Mohamed Koné (Charleroi SC, Belgium), Alban Lafont (Panathinaikos, Greece)

DEFENDERS: Emmanuel Agbadou (Wolverhampton Wanderers, England), Boly Willy (Nottingham Forest, England), Ousmane Diomande (Sporting CP, Portugal), Guela Doué (RC Strasbourg, France), Ghislain Konan (Gil Vicente, Portugal), Odilon Kossounou (Atalanta BC, Italy), Evan Ndicka (AS Roma, Italy), Christopher Operi (Istanbul Başakşehir, Turkey), Armel Zohouri (FC Iberia 1999, Georgia)

MIDFIELDERS: Seko Fofana (Stade Rennais, France), Jean-Philippe Gbamin (FC Metz, France), Christ Inao Oulaï (Trabzonspor, Turkey), Franck Kessié (Al-Ahli, Saudi Arabia), Ibrahim Sangaré (Nottingham Forest, England), Jean-Michael Seri (NK Maribor FC, Slovenia)

FORWARDS: Vakoun Bayo (Udinese Calcio, Italy), Oumar Diakité (Cercle Brugge, Belgium), Amad Diallo (Manchester United, England), Yan Diomande (RB Leipzig, Germany), Sébastien Haller (FC Utrecht, Netherlands), Jean-Philippe Krasso (Paris FC, France), Bazoumana Touré (TSG 1899 Hoffenheim, Germany), Wilfried Zaha (Charlotte FC, United States)

STANDBY: Guessand Evann (Aston Villa, England), Guiagon Parfait (Royal Charleroi SC, Belgium)

Burkina Faso confirm 25-man final list for ACON 2025
by FSL News

Burkina Faso confirm 25-man final list for AFCON 2025

Burkina Faso coach Brama Traoré has unveiled his 25-man squad for the 2025 TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, featuring a mix of experienced players and promising newcomers.

The Stallions, placed in Group E with Algeria, Equatorial Guinea, and Sudan, aim to build on recent strong performances.

The squad includes a solid mix of European-based professionals and domestic talents, with key players such as goalkeepers Hervé Koffi, Kilian Nikiema, and Sofiane Farid Ouédraogo providing reliability.

The defence is anchored by Nasser Yacouba Djiga, Edmond Tapsoba, and Adamo Nagalo, while the midfield showcases talent like Ibrahim Blati Touré and Cédric Badolo.

In attack, Bertrand Traoré and Dango Ouattara bring Premier League experience, complemented by Lassina Traoré, who leads the line. Traoré emphasises a balance of stability and ambition, equipping Burkina Faso to compete effectively in the tournament.

Burkina Faso’s 25-man squad for AFCON 2025

Goalkeepers: Hervé Koffi (Angers), Kilian Nikiema (ADO Den Haag), Sofiane Farid Ouédraogo (Al Hilal SC)

Defenders: Nasser Yacouba Djiga (Rangers), Edmond Tapsoba (Bayer Leverkusen), Issoufou Dayo (Umm Salal), Adamo Nagalo (PSV Eindhoven), Steeve Yago (Aris Limassol), Issa Kaboré (Wrexham), Arsène Kouassi (Lorient), Abdoul Rachid Ayindé (Gent)

Midfielders: Ibrahim Blati Touré (Pyramids), Cédric Badolo (Spartak Trnava), Saïdou Simporé (National Bank), Mohamed Zougrana (MC Alger), Gustavo Sangaré (Noah), Stéphane Aziz Ki (Wydad Casablanca), Ismahila Ouédraogo (OB Odense)

Forwards: Bertrand Traoré (Sunderland), Dango Ouattara (Brentford), Ousseni Bouda (San Jose Earthquakes), Pierre Landry Kaboré (Hearts), Georgi Minoungou (Seattle Sounders), Cyriaque Iré (Freiburg), Lassina Traoré (Shakhtar Donetsk)

CAF unveils new 2025 Africa Cup of Nations Mascot 'Assad'
by Football Sierra Leone

CAF unveils new 2025 Africa Cup of Nations Mascot ‘Assad’

Excitement is building for Africa’s largest event, the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Morocco 2025. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) and the Local Organising Committee (LOC) have introduced the official mascot, 'ASSAD' (ⵉⵣⵎ in Amazigh).

Assad, inspired by the Atlas lion, symbolises strength, pride, and cultural authenticity. He will connect with fans of all ages, especially children and families.

Assad will engage fans at stadiums, fan zones, and community events, supporting marketing campaigns and enhancing digital content. His friendly design and vibrant colours match the tournament brand.

Beyond 2025, Assad will represent the future of African football by participating in grassroots programs and youth initiatives to inspire the next generation.

With Assad at the forefront, the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON Morocco 2025 aims to create an unforgettable experience that celebrates unity and the spirit of African football.

Uganda Cranes Head Coach Paul Joseph Put names provisional AFCON squad
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Uganda Cranes Head Coach Paul Put names provisional AFCON squad

Uganda Cranes Head Coach Paul Joseph Put has named a 30-man provisional squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, primarily selecting players from recent matches, including AFCON Qualifiers, World Cup Qualifiers, and CHAN 2024.

Young talent James Bogere, who played for the Uganda Cubs at the recently concluded FIFA U17 World Cup in Qatar, has received a call-up. Bogere, who was a standout for the U17 team, earns his first opportunity to join the senior national squad and is in contention for a place in the final roster.

At the U17 World Cup, he netted two goals, scoring against France and Canada. Alhassan Baba and Melyvn Lorenzen, who made their debuts during last month’s international window in friendlies against Morocco and Chad, are also included in the team.

The squad is scheduled to depart for Morocco on Sunday evening to begin preparations. The training camp in Casablanca will last for 11 days before the final squad of 28 is announced.

While in Morocco, the Uganda Cranes aim to compete in two international friendlies to prepare for the tournament, which will be held from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026. Uganda has been placed in Group C alongside Nigeria, Tunisia, and Tanzania.

Uganda Cranes Provisional AFCON 2025 Squad (30 Players)
Goalkeepers

  • Salim Omar Magoola – Richards Bay FC (South Africa)

  • Denis Onyango – Mamelodi Sundowns (South Africa)

  • Alionzi Nafian – Defence Forces FC (Ethiopia)

  • Charles Lukwago – KCCA FC (Uganda)

Defenders

  • Toby Sibbick – Burton Albion (England)

  • Elio Caprodossi – Universitatea Cluj (Romania)

  • Jordan Obita – Hibernian FC (Scotland)

  • Rogers Torach – Vipers SC (Uganda)

  • Abdu Azizi Kayondo – Slovan Liberec (Czech Republic)

  • Isaac Muleme – Viktoria Žižkov (Czech Republic)

  • Timothy Awany – FC Ashdod (Israel)

  • David Owori – SC Villa (Uganda)

  • Hilary Mukundane – Vipers SC (Uganda)

Midfielders

  • Kenneth Semakula – Al-Adalah FC (Saudi Arabia)

  • Khalid Aucho – Singida Black Stars (Tanzania)

  • Ronald Ssekingada – APR FC (Rwanda)

  • Bobosi Byaruhanga – Oakland Roots (USA)

  • Baba Alhassan – FCSB (Romania)

Forwards

  • Allan Okello – Vipers SC (Uganda)

  • Melvyn Lorenzen – Muangthong United (Thailand)

  • Travis Mutyaba – CS Sfaxien (Tunisia)

  • Denis Omedi – APR FC (Rwanda)

  • Mato Rogers – FK Vardar (North Macedonia)

  • Reagan Mpande – SC Villa (Uganda)

  • Jude Ssemugabi – Jamus FC (South Sudan)

  • Uchechukwu Ikpeazu – St. Johnstone (Scotland)

  • Steven Mukwala – Simba SC (Tanzania)

  • James Bogere – Masaka Sunshine FC (Uganda)

  • Ivan Ahimbisibwe – KCCA FC (Uganda)

  • Shafik Nana Kwikiriza – KCCA FC (Uganda)

African teams know their 2026 FIFA World Cup opponents
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

African teams know their 2026 FIFA World Cup opponents

Africa’s teams for the 2026 FIFA World Cup learned their group assignments in Washington D.C. on Friday.

The expanded tournament will include 48 teams, and Africa will have nine qualified teams, with the DR Congo hoping to join through play-offs.

Morocco, Africa’s top-ranked team and semi-finalists in 2022, is in Group C with Brazil, Scotland, and Haiti. This matchup with Brazil will attract global attention.

South Africa returns to the World Cup for the first time since 2010, placed in Group A with Mexico, South Korea, and the European play-off winner, aiming for its first knockout stage.

Ivory Coast, champions in 2015 and 2023, competes in Group E alongside Germany, Curaçao, and Ecuador, eyeing progression despite Germany’s strength.

Tunisia, in Group F with the Netherlands, Japan, and a European play-off winner, hopes to capitalise on opportunities against Japan and the play-off team.

Egypt, back since 2018, finds itself in Group G with Belgium, Iran, and New Zealand, presenting a decent chance to advance.

Cape Verde debuts in Group H against Spain, Uruguay, and Saudi Arabia, marking a historic moment for the team.

Algeria faces Argentina, Austria, and Jordan in Group J, with the match against Argentina highly anticipated.

Senegal, Africa’s second-highest-ranked team, is in Group I with France, Norway, and a South American–Asian play-off winner, presenting a tough challenge.

Ghana joins Group L with England, Croatia, and Panama, seeking to regain its strong World Cup form.

DR Congo could join Group K if they win their playoff against Jamaica and Iraq, facing Portugal, Colombia, and another playoff winner.

Africa’s World Cup journey promises exciting matchups and new opportunities.

The 2026 World Cup groups

Group A: Mexico, South Africa, Korea Republic, European Play-Off D winner (Czechia, Denmark, North Macedonia or the Republic of Ireland)

Group B: Canada, European Play-Off A winner (Bosnia and Herzegovina, Italy, Northern Ireland or Wales), Qatar, Switzerland

Group C: Brazil, Morocco, Haiti, Scotland

Group D: United States, Paraguay, Australia, European Play-Off C winner (Kosovo, Romania, Slovakia or Türkiye)

Group E: Germany, Curaçao, Côte d’Ivoire, Ecuador

Group F: Netherlands, Japan, European Play-Off B winner (Albania, Poland, Sweden or Ukraine), Tunisia

Group G: Belgium, Egypt, Iran, New Zealand

Group H: Spain, Cabo Verde, Saudi Arabia, Uruguay

Group I: France, Senegal, FIFA Play-Off Tournament winner 2 (Bolivia, Iraq or Suriname), Norway

Group J: Argentina, Algeria, Austria, Jordan

Group K: Portugal, FIFA Play-Off Tournament winner 1 (DR Congo, Jamaica or New Caledonia), Uzbekistan, Colombia

Group L: England, Croatia, Ghana, Panama 

Angola list 28-man troops for AFCON 2025 in Morocco this month
by Football Sierra Leone

Angola list final 28-man troops for AFCON 2025 in Morocco

Angola's head coach, Patrice Beaumelle, has unveiled his final 28-man squad for the 2025 TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations, setting the stage for the Palancas Negras to aim for their best-ever performance in the tournament's history.

After weeks of speculation, Beaumelle’s squad announcement has captured attention, particularly due to several high-profile absentees as Angola gears up for a tough Group B campaign, facing South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Egypt.

A Challenging Path Awaits in Group B

Angola will begin their AFCON journey against South Africa on December 21, followed by matches against Zimbabwe on December 26 and Egypt on December 29. With the energy from their quarter-final run in 2023 and Beaumelle’s rejuvenated squad, the Palancas Negras head to Morocco with a sense of measured confidence and a clear ambition to carve out a new chapter in their footballing history.

Historically, Angola has yet to win the tournament, with their best performances being quarter-final appearances in 2008, 2010, and the recent edition in Côte d’Ivoire.

Angola’s AFCON Group Matches

22 December: vs South Africa

26 December: vs Zimbabwe

29 December: vs Egypt

Angola’s final 28-man squad for AFCON 2025

Goalkeepers: Neblú, Hugo Marques, Dominique

Defenders: Rui Modesto, Eddie Afonso, Tô Carneiro, Núrio Fortuna, Pedro Bondo, David Carmo, Buatu, Gaspar, Clinton Mata

Midfielders: Beni Mukendi, Show, Fredy, Maestro, Kelliano, Mário Balbúrdia

Forwards: Zito Luvumbo, Manuel Benson, Milson, Chico Banza, Gelson Dala, Randy Nteka, Ary Papel, Mabululu, Mbala Nzola, Zine

Benin's coach Gernot Rohr names 30-man provisional squad for AFCON 2025
by FSL News

Benin’s coach Gernot Rohr names 30-man provisional squad for AFCON 2025

Benin's coach, Gernot Rohr, has announced a provisional 30-man squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, set to start on December 21 in Morocco. The final squad will be trimmed to 28 players.

A training camp will take place in Ben Slimane, Morocco, starting December 10, where Rohr will assess players’ fitness and form. He initially selected 50 players but narrowed it down due to injuries and suspensions, now including centre-back Charlemagne Azongnitodé, making his first call-up after a strong season with AC Oulu in Finland.

Key players like Steve Mounié, who has recovered from injury, will lead the attack, while Rodolfo Aloko returns after regaining fitness. Other retained players include Santos Felipe, Adam Akimey, and Mariano Ahouangbo.

Benin will face Senegal in their final group stage match on December 30, with Rohr aiming to have at least 26 or 27 fit players, given five suspensions for their opening match. This extended squad is crucial for preparation against unforeseen challenges.

The camp will help determine the final squad, with Mounié, Olivier Verdon, and Yohan Roche providing experience in a bid to enhance the team’s performance in a tough Group D.

Benin’s 30-man provisional squad for AFCON 2025

Goalkeepers: Dandjinou Marcel, Allagbé Saturnin, Obassa Serge

Defenders: Attidjikou Samadou, Azongnitodé Charlemagne, Fassinou Rodrigue, Kiki David, Moumini Rachid, Ouorou Tamimou, Yohan Roche, Tijani Mohamed, Verdon Olivier

Midfielders: Ahlinvi Mattéo, Ahouangbo Mariano, Ahoudo Gislain, D’Almeida Sessi, Dokou Dodo, Hassane Imourane, Kossi Rodrigue

Forwards: Akimey Adam, Aloko Rodolfo, Amoussou Romaric, Dossou Jodel, Hountondji Andreas, Mounié Steve, Olaïtan Junior, Rachidou Razack, Santos Felipe, Tessilimi Olatoundji, Tosin Aiyegun

Big AFCON 2025 blow for Nigeria's Super Eagles as skipper retires
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Big AFCON 2025 blow for Nigeria’s Super Eagles as skipper retires

William Troost-Ekong has decided to retire from international football. This means he will not play for Nigeria in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

The decision comes just days before the Africa Cup of Nations begins in Morocco on December 21, where Nigeria will compete in Group C alongside Tunisia, Tanzania, and Uganda.

The 31-year-old centre-back Troost-Ekong was recently part of Eric Chelle’s preliminary squad for the tournament in Morocco, but has chosen to step aside to allow younger players to take the stage.

He earned 83 caps for the Super Eagles, making his debut under Stephen Keshi in 2015. His last match was a 4-1 win over Gabon before Nigeria’s elimination from World Cup qualifying.

Troost-Ekong participated in the 2018 World Cup and three AFCON tournaments, winning bronze in 2019 and silver in 2023, where he was named Player of the Tournament.

He expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to represent Nigeria, highlighting his growth from a boy in the Netherlands to captain of the Super Eagles.

With accomplishments including 83 caps, participation in five major tournaments, and three medals, he felt fulfilled in his journey. He emphasised the importance of passing the captaincy to the next generation to continue their legacy.

Samuel Chukwueze nets brace in Fulham's defeat to Manchester City
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Samuel Chukwueze nets brace in Fulham’s defeat to Manchester City

Fulham's thrilling comeback ended in heartbreak with a 4-5 defeat to Manchester City at Craven Cottage in Tuesday's Premier League action

City took an early lead with goals from Erling Haaland, Tijjani Reijnders, and Phil Foden. Emile Smith Rowe pulled one back with a header just before halftime.

Despite another goal from Foden and an own goal by Sander Berge putting City ahead, Fulham fought back. Alex Iwobi scored, followed by Samuel Chukwueze’s brace, marking his first goals for the club. A late chance for Josh King to equalise was cleared off the line.

Manager Marco Silva made key adjustments, reinstating Saša Lukić and Smith Rowe after the win against Tottenham. Fulham had opportunities early on but fell behind after two quick City goals. Yet, Smith Rowe’s stoppage-time header brought renewed hope.

In the second half, City’s lead was restored with another goal from Foden, but Fulham persisted. Iwobi’s stunning goal and Chukwueze’s swift volley brought the score to 4-5.

With eight minutes of added time, a dramatic equalizer was tantalizingly close, but King’s effort was heartbreakingly cleared, denying Fulham a remarkable comeback.