Category: Football Africa

CAF Issues Sanctions Against Algeria After Misconduct
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

CAF Issues Sanctions Against Algeria After Misconduct

The CAF Disciplinary Board met to discuss issues from the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 match between Algeria and Nigeria on January 10, 2026.

The Disciplinary Board of the Confederation of African Football has announced penalties for Algeria’s misconduct during the January 10, 2026, African Cup of Nations match against Nigeria:

– Luca Zidane is suspended for two matches for misconduct.
– Rafik Belghali is suspended for four matches (two of which are deferred for one year) for aggressive behaviour toward the referee.
– The Algerian Football Federation will incur fines totalling USD 100,000 for various infractions:
– USD 5,000 for receiving five yellow cards in one match.
– USD 25,000 for inappropriate behaviour from players and officials.
– USD 5,000 for fans using smoke devices.
– USD 5,000 for fans throwing objects.
– USD 10,000 for failing to follow security measures.
– USD 50,000 for offensive gestures by supporters towards match officials.

AFCON top scorer Brahim Díaz apologises to Moroccan people
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

AFCON top scorer Brahim Díaz apologises to Moroccan people

Brahim Díaz of Morocco has apologized for missing a key penalty in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final, where Senegal triumphed 1-0 after extra-time in Rabat.

Díaz was fouled in the box by El Hadji Malick Diouf, leading to a VAR-reviewed penalty decision that sparked protests from Senegal.

He attempted a Panenka shot, which Senegal’s goalkeeper Édouard Mendy saved. The miss sent the match went to extra time, where Pape Gueye scored the winning goal for Senegal, securing their second AFCON title.

Díaz expressed his regret on social media the following day. “My soul hurts,” wrote Díaz. “I dreamed of this title thanks to all the love you have given me, every message, every show of support that made me feel I was not alone. I fought with everything I had, with my heart above all else.

“Yesterday I failed, and I take full responsibility and apologise wholeheartedly. It will be difficult for me to recover, because this wound does not heal easily, but I will try.

“Not for myself, but for all those who believed in me and for all those who suffered with me. I will keep going until one day I can give you all this love back and be the pride of my Moroccan people.”

Despite missing a penalty, the 26-year-old had a remarkable debut tournament, becoming the first player in AFCON history to score in all five of his initial matches at the finals. He not only made his mark but also finished as the tournament’s top scorer, earning the Golden Boot with five goals in seven appearances.

Díaz is eagerly anticipating the chance to make amends at the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Mama Sow's on Senegal skipper Sadio Mane's last AFCON
by Football Sierra Leone

Mama Sow on Senegal skipper Sadio Mane’s last AFCON

A former technical director of the Senegal national team has expressed a different viewpoint from those encouraging Sadio Mané to rethink his decision to retire from international football.

Sadio Mané’s retirement discussions are gaining attention after he led Senegal’s national team, the Teranga Lions, to win their second Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title, defeating Morocco 1-0.

Mama Sow, who was Senegal’s technical director from 2000 to 2006, has weighed in on Mané’s future with the national team.

Sow said, “I completely understand his decision. Sadio Mané has given everything to Senegal. Beyond football, he is a true patriot. If he says this is his last final, it means his body has spoken.” He believes Mané may be considering retirement due to the high demands of professional football.

Mané, a former Liverpool FC star, has announced his plans to retire from international football after the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June.

He hinted at his retirement before the tournament in Morocco and confirmed it after winning the title on Sunday. In an interview with beIN Sports, Mané stated, “I will try to play in the 2026 World Cup and then I will retire from international football.”

He also praised the Saudi Pro League, saying it is very competitive and one of the best leagues in the world. Mané was named the AFCON 2025 Man of the Competition, winning this award for the second time in his international career, after winning it in 2021.

Akor Adams nets brace as Sevilla draw with Elche
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Akor Adams nets a brace as Sevilla draw with Elche

Akor Adams helped Sevilla secure a draw against Elche by scoring two goals after returning from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with the Super Eagles.

Sevilla initially fell behind 2-0, with goals from Aleix Febas and Germán Valera. Coming off the bench, Akor scored in the 75th minute and converted a penalty in stoppage time to equalise.

In a statement to Mundo Deportivo, Akor expressed his gratitude for playing time and noted that while the team had chances to win, he was satisfied with the draw.

He emphasised the importance of teamwork and mentioned that he was happy to contribute after watching the team’s previous games while away.

The draw leaves Sevilla in 14th place in the La Liga table. Their next match is on Saturday against 10th-place Athletic Club at the Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán.

New CAF coaching requirements for National teams and Clubs football
by Football Sierra Leone

FIFA’s Infantino condemns as CAF reviews footage of Senegal players and officials

FIFA president Gianni Infantino condemned the behavior of Senegal players and coaching staff following the chaotic end of the Africa Cup of Nations final.

He emphasised that violence and walk-offs have no place in football and stressed the importance of respecting match officials’ decisions.

The final, in which Senegal won 1-0 against Morocco, was marred by a disputed penalty that led to player protests and halted play.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) announced it would review footage of the incident and pursue disciplinary actions against those responsible for the unacceptable behaviour.

Pape Gueye nets an extra time stunner as Senegal win AFCON title
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Pape Gueye nets an extra-time stunner as Senegal win AFCON title

Senegal won the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title for the second time after defeating hosts Morocco 1–0 in a thrilling final held in Rabat.

The clinching moment came just three minutes into extra time when Pape Gueye scored with a powerful left-footed shot from the edge of the penalty area, sending the Senegalese bench into celebration and disappointing the home crowd.

Morocco almost won the match during regular time when they were awarded a late penalty after a VAR review. However, Edward Mendy saved Brahim Diaz’s shot, forcing the game into extra time.

The match was evenly matched from the start. Morocco aimed for their first title in over 50 years, while Senegal sought to reclaim the championship it won in 2021. Senegal started strong, controlling the game and creating better chances in the first half.

Morocco’s goalkeeper, Yassine Bounou, made key saves, stopping Gueye’s header from a corner and then denying Iliman Ndiaye in a one-on-one situation. The best chance for Morocco came just before half-time when Nayef Aguerd just missed connecting with a cross from Abdessamad Ezzalzouli.

After the break, Morocco came out with renewed energy. Ayoub El Kaabi had a great opportunity but missed the target with a shot after receiving a perfectly placed pass from Bilal El Khannouss. Morocco continued to press for a goal, but they struggled to finish.

Senegal remained dangerous on the counterattack. In the 89th minute, substitute Ibrahim Mbaye nearly scored, but Bounou made another excellent save.

As the game went into extra time without a winner, Senegal quickly struck. Sadio Mané made a clever back-heel pass to Idrissa Gana Gueye, who then set up Pape Gueye for the goal. Gueye showed strength and composure, sending a powerful shot past Bounou.

Morocco pressed hard for an equaliser. Diaz tried to make up for his penalty miss with a close-range shot saved by Mendy. Youssef En-Nesyri also came close with a diving header that went just wide. Senegal almost increased their lead, but Bounou stopped another shot from Pape Cherif Ndiaye, and the rebound was missed.

In the end, Senegal defended strongly and celebrated a historic victory, securing their second AFCON title and confirming their status among Africa’s best teams.

Pape Gueye, named Man of the Match, said, “I am very happy to win the final. It was a complicated match. After Morocco missed the penalty, we stayed focused and played our game. Then we scored a goal that allowed us to win. Scoring in a final is a proud moment for me. I am really happy to score, and most importantly, Senegal now has a second star.

Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali hero as Nigeria pick Bronze in AFCON 2025
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali hero as Nigeria pick AFCON 2025 Bronze

Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali was instrumental for Nigeria in the Super Eagles' bronze medal win at the 2025 TAfrica Cup of Nations in Morocco, defeating Egypt 4–2 in a penalty shootout after a goalless draw.

Despite a previous loss to Morocco in the semifinals, Nwabali made two crucial saves against Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush during the shootout, helping turn the tide after Nigeria’s Fisayo Dele-Bashiru had his shot saved.

Goals from Akor Adams, Moses Simon, Alex Iwobi, and Ademola Lookman secured Nigeria’s victory.

While both teams struggled to find clear chances during regulation, Nwabali’s solid performance kept the match scoreless, leading to penalties. After the game, he praised his teammates for their unity and determination.

Egypt’s coach, Hossam Hassan, acknowledged the close contest but reflected on the importance of details in such matches. Nigeria’s coach, Eric Chelle, expressed pride in his players’ effort and character, emphasising the team’s hard work and commitment to building a stronger future.

Stanley Nwabali is the TotalEnergies Man of the Match.
Nigeria 0-0 Egypt (Nigeria wins 4-2 in penalties)
Mohammed V Stadium, Casablanca
Egypt and Nigeria ready for AFCON 2025 third-place accolade
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Egypt and Nigeria are ready for AFCON 2025 third-place accolade

Egypt and Nigeria will compete for third place at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) this weekend. The winning team will earn a bronze medal, recognizing their efforts over the past three weeks.

Both Egypt and Nigeria were expected to perform well in the tournament, but lost in the semi-finals. Egypt was defeated by Senegal, while Nigeria fell to Morocco in a penalty shootout.

Ahead of their third-place match on Saturday, Wilfred Ndidi expressed that the loss to Morocco was difficult, but the Super Eagles are looking to finish on a high note. “It was a painful loss; we have reached the end of the tournament, but tomorrow we want to ensure a positive result,” he stated.

Head coach Eric Chelle praised his players for their dedication, though he expressed disappointment over the defeat to Morocco.

During his pre-match conference for the AFCON third-place match, Hossam Hassan, in the photo, the head coach of Egypt, expressed his dissatisfaction with being involved in a third-place tie. Nevertheless, he remains determined to secure a victory following a challenging match against Senegal.

Trezeguet has recovered from injury to play in Egypt’s semi-final loss, but Mohamed Hamdi may still miss this match. Egypt struggled against Senegal, so coach Hossam Hassan might consider changing the lineup. Although Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush did not perform well, they are unlikely to be benched since they play in the Premier League.

For Nigeria, Calvin Bassey will miss this match due to a suspension after receiving a yellow card in the semi-final. Coach Eric Chelle will welcome back captain Wilfred Ndidi, who was suspended for that match. Striker Cyriel Dessers has missed the tournament due to an ankle injury. There are also concerns about Victor Osimhen’s fitness, as he limped off late in the semi-final.

Prediction

Both teams had trouble scoring in their last matches, which might happen again. The game could focus on their star players, Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush for Egypt, against Osimhen for Nigeria.

Both sides will want to end the tournament on a positive note, making for an interesting match.

Head-to-Head History

– Egypt wins: 6  

– Nigeria wins: 9  

– Draws: 5  

Date, Time, and Venue  

Egypt vs Nigeria is set for 5 pm local Time on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at Stade Mohammed V in Casablanca, Morocco.

CAF Slaps Fecafoot president Samuel Etoo with a four-match ban
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

CAF Slaps Fecafoot president Samuel Eto’o with a four-match ban

The CAF Disciplinary Board has charged Mr. Samuel Eto'o Fils, the President of the Cameroon Football Federation (FECAFOOT), with misconduct.

This charge stems from the Africa Cup of Nations match between Morocco and Cameroon, held in Rabat on January 9, 2026.

Samuel Eto’o has received a four-match ban and a fine of $20,000 (£14,960) for his misconduct, according to a statement from the Confederation of African Football (CAF).

Eto’o, the former star player for Cameroon, violated the principles of sportsmanship during the quarter-final match, in which Cameroon lost 2-0 to Morocco.

Eto’o was reportedly seen making an angry gesture towards the officials’ decisions during the game. CAF president Patrice Motsepe, who was present at the match, witnessed Eto’o’s frustration.

The CAF Disciplinary Board found Mr Eto’o guilty of breaking the sportsmanship rules outlined in Article 2(3) of the CAF Statutes and Article 82 of the CAF Disciplinary Code for his behaviour during the match.

As a result, Mr Samuel Eto’o Fils will not be allowed in the stadium for the next four official CAF matches in the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco 2025. Additionally, he must pay a fine of USD 20,000. CAF will not comment further on this matter.

Morocco beat Nigeria on penalties to book AFCON final date with Senegal
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Morocco beat Nigeria on penalties to book AFCON final date with Senegal

Goalkeeper Yassine Bounou was the hero as Morocco reached the final of the Africa Cup of for the first time in 21 years. They defeated Nigeria 4-2 in a penalty shootout after a goalless semi-final in Rabat.

After 90 minutes and extra time ended without goals, the match went to penalties. Bounou made key saves against Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyemaechi, helping Morocco move closer to winning the tournament.

Neil El Aynaoui and Paul Onuachu scored the initial penalties for their teams. Nigeria gained the upper hand when Stanley Nwabali saved Hamza Igamane’s kick. However, Bounou responded by saving Chukwueze’s penalty, tying the scores.

Eliesse Ben Seghir and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru both scored their penalties. Captain Achraf Hakimi then stepped up and confidently gave Morocco a 3-2 lead.

Bounou made another crucial save against Onyemaechi’s penalty. With the crowd holding its breath, Youssef En-Nesyri took the final penalty and scored, sending the Rabat fans into celebration and marking a historic night for Morocco.

Morocco’s victory eased the pressure of hosting the tournament, while Nigeria missed the chance for a second straight AFCON final and will now prepare for the third-place match against Egypt.

The balanced semi-final saw both teams create chances, with Brahim Diaz just missing a curling shot and Nwabali saving a low effort from Ismail Saibari. Morocco’s vigilant defence closely marked Nigeria’s Victor Osimhen.

In the second half, Morocco controlled the game more, pushing forward. Calvin Bassey played well for Nigeria, using his strength to withstand Morocco’s pressure.

Morocco’s best chance came from Abde Ezzalzouli, whose curling shot was saved by Nwabali. As exhaustion set in during extra time, both teams played cautiously. With no goals after 120 minutes, it went to penalties, where Bounou shone again, leading Morocco to the AFCON final.

Yassine Bounou (Morocco) – TotalEnergies Man of the Match: “The atmosphere was amazing, and I thank the fans for their support. The players gave their all in a tough match against a strong Nigeria. I appreciate our coach, Walid Regragui, and my teammates. Our fans inspire us, and we will focus on recovery for the final.”

Eric Chelle – Head Coach of Nigeria: “Losing on penalties is painful. The match was challenging, and while we showed determination, we need to keep improving. Our technical play wasn’t as strong as before, and we lacked movement and energy.”

Walid Regragui – Head Coach of Morocco: “Thank you to everyone who supported us. The encouraging messages motivated us, and I’m proud of our players. Reaching the AFCON final at home is a fantastic achievement. Now we must recover quickly. Congratulations to Nigeria and Coach Eric Chelle for their efforts.”

Goalkeeper Yassine Bounou was the hero Morocco and was name Man of the Match
Goalkeeper Yassine Bounou was the hero Morocco and was name Man of the Match