Category: Football Africa

Sunderland's Bertrand Traoré and Brentford's Dango Ouattara will be key figures as Sierra Leone host the Stallions of Burkina Faso in a crucial clash for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Traoré & Dango Ouattara named in Burkina Faso’s squad for Sierra Leone & Ethiopia

Sunderland's Bertrand Traoré and Brentford's Dango Ouattara will be key figures as Sierra Leone host the Stallions of Burkina Faso in a crucial clash for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

On Wednesday, October 8th, in the capital city of Liberia, both teams are poised to secure crucial points in their pursuit of qualification for the esteemed tournament.

This match is anticipated to be a thrilling contest, as both nations strive to strengthen their positions within Group A of the African qualifiers.

The Stallions of Burkina Faso will face a stiff contest despite being the favourites in the favorites. However, they are fully aware of the challenge posed by a resilient Sierra Leone side.

Burkina Faso will heavily rely on their seasoned players, including top talents from European clubs such as Sunderland’s Bertrand Traoré, Brentford’s Dango Ouattara, Edmond Tapsoba from Bayer Leverkusen and Issa Kaboré on loan at Wrexham, to put on a strong show in front of their home supporters.

Meanwhile, Sierra Leone is looking to pull off an upset after the 2-2 draw in June 2024 with striker Amadou Bakayoko’s equaliser in the 87th minute.

Burkina Faso, who recently played to a goalless draw against the group leaders, currently sit second in the standings with 15 points—three points ahead of Sierra Leone.
Burkina Faso, who recently played to a goalless draw against the group leaders, currently sit second in the standings with 15 points—three points ahead of Sierra Leone.
Côte d'Ivoire's Émerse Faé names strong squad for October's qualifiers
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Côte d’Ivoire’s Émerse Faé names strong squad for October’s qualifiers

Head coach of Côte d'Ivoire, Émerse Faé, has presented his team for the ninth and tenth matches of the World Cup qualifiers 2026.

In the vital 9th and 10th qualifying matches for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Côte d’Ivoire will play Seychelles and Kenya this October.

For these critical meetings, Ivorian coach Émerse Faé has named a 23-member team. The coach has recalled that Côte d’Ivoire need to win both of these last matches to guarantee their ticket to the World Cup.

Presently, leading Group F, they’ll hope to wrap up their place in the USA, Canada and Mexico next year with a win away to Seychelles before hosting Kenya this October. 

The 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification will decide the 45 teams that will join hosts Canada, Mexico, and the United States at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The 23-man Elephants squad:

Goalkeepers:

1 – Yahia Fofana, 2 – Alban Lafont, and 3 – Mohamed Koné

Defenders:

4 – Evan Ndicka, 5 – Wilfried Singo, 6 – Emmanuel Agbadou, 7 – Guéla Doué, 8 – Jean-Philippe Gbamin, 9 – Ghislain Konan, 10 – Odilon Kossounou and 11 – Christopher Opéri

Midfielders:

12 – Seko Fofana, 13 – Franck Kessié, 14 – Ibrahim Sangaré

15 – Pacôme Zouzoua

Forwards:

16 – Simon Adingra, 17 – Oumar Diakité, 18 – Amad Diallo, 19 – Yann Diomandé, 20 – Evann Guessand, 21 – Sebastien Haller, 22 – Nicolas Pépé and 23 – Bazoumana Touré

South Africa and Nigeria suffer opening U20 World Cup defeats
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

South Africa and Nigeria suffer opening U20 World Cup defeats

Both African teams competing in Monday's FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile, South Africa and Nigeria, faced defeats in their opening matches against France and Norway, respectively, in Groups E and F.

France secured full points in their match against South Africa with a late goal. The competition in Group F was tightly contested, with Norway narrowly defeating Nigeria in a challenging match.

In Group E, A late goal from Lucas Michal secured a 2-1 victory for France over South Africa in Rancagua. France started strong, with Tadjidine Mmadi missing a shot wide and Mayssam Benama hitting the post, before Anthony Bermont scored the winning goal 25 minutes in.

However, their lead did not last long, as Kutlwano Letlhaku skillfully manoeuvred into the French penalty area and was fouled by Elyaz Zidane, the youngest son of legendary French player Zinedine Zidane. Jody Ahshene confidently converted the penalty kick into the net.

The decisive goal came in the 80th minute, when Michal turned at the edge of the box, drove inward, and fired a powerful shot into the bottom right corner.

In the match between Nigeria and Norway, an early penalty was sufficient for Norway to secure a 1-0 win against Nigeria in their first match in Talca.

Nigeria quickly grabbed Norway’s attention when Kparobo Arierhi hit the crossbar within three minutes. Nevertheless, it was Norway that struck first after a video review confirmed a handball offence in the Nigerian area, allowing Rasmus Holten to score from the penalty spot.

A dazzling run from Luca Hoyland set Norway up for a second goal, but Gustav Nyheim failed to convert the cross right in front of the net.

Nigeria applied pressure in their quest for an equaliser, and Tahir Maigana felt frustrated when his shot hit the post shortly after the hour mark. Ultimately, Norway managed to withstand Nigeria’s late surge to claim the valuable points.

South Africa forfeit three vital points in the race to 2026 World Cup
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

South Africa forfeit three vital points in the race to 2026 World Cup

South Africa's prospects for qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup have taken a significant hit after the country was penalized for fielding an ineligible player.

Teboho Mokoena played in a match against Lesotho, which saw South Africa win 2-0 in March. However, the 28-year-old midfielder was supposed to be serving a suspension because he had already accumulated two yellow cards.

A FIFA disciplinary committee ruled that South Africa had breached competition rules and consequently imposed a 3-0 forfeit for the match.

Mokoena’s involvement in the win over Lesotho in March has now put South Africa and Benin on 14 points each, while Nigeria and Rwanda sit at 11 points. With two games left next month, the group remains wide open.

“We apologise to the nation for this administrative oversight and will reflect on the steps to take at the conclusion of our qualifying campaign. Finally, we call on all South Africans to rally behind the team during this final and crucial stage of the qualifiers,” Saffa acknowledged the Fifa decision.

African Champions South Africa ready for U20 opener against France
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

African Champions South Africa ready for U20 opener against France

Raymond Mdaka’s team is eager to continue their historic journey following their impressive victory in the U-20 AFCON earlier this year.

Tonight, they face a European powerhouse France at 17:00 hrs local time, at the Estadio El Teniente stadium in Chile.

Arriving in Chile as continental champions, South Africa secured their first-ever U-20 AFCON title with a thrilling win over Morocco.

It was in May that they lifted the CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations trophy, thanks to a stunning goal from Gomolemo Kekana that clinched the victory in the Cairo final.

This triumph not only crowned them champions but also earned Mdaka’s squad a place in the FIFA U-20 World Cup Chile 2025™, marking their return to this prestigious tournament for the first time since 2019 and only their fifth overall appearance.

Their opponent – France will compete in the FIFA U-20 World Cup™ for the fourth time in a row, marking the first time in their history that they have achieved this. Only Argentina, the USA, and New Zealand have longer current streaks of qualifications for the tournament at Chile 2025.

South Africa Group E fixtures

29 September France-South Africa (17:00 local time, Estadio El Teniente)

2 October South Africa-New Caledonia (20:00 local time, Estadio El Teniente)

5 October South Africa-USA (17:00 local time, Estadio El Teniente)

Nigeria set for Norway cracker in FIFA U20 World Cup opener
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Nigeria set for Norway cracker in FIFA U20 World Cup opener  

The FIFA U20 World Cup will commence with an exciting match as Nigeria's Flying Eagles take on Norway's Young Vikings at the Estadio Fiscal de Talca in Chile on Monday. Kickoff time 21:00 WAT.

Both squads understand the importance of a robust opening game, setting the stage for a thrilling encounter filled with skill and intensity beneath the Chilean night sky.

Nigeria enters the tournament with a rich history, marking their 14th appearance and featuring two runner-up finishes, one in 1989 and another in 2005.

Guided by coach Aliyu Zubair, the Flying Eagles blend domestic talent with stars from Europe, aiming to sharpen their offensive play and make a significant impact.

Conversely, Norway, participating in their fourth U20 World Cup, aims to overcome their previous group-stage challenges.

Under the leadership of coach Bjorn Johansen, the Young Vikings bring a strong sense of determination and resilience, looking to make their mark with an impressive showing.

Nigeria’s roster features promising young talent, including goalkeepers Ebenezer Harcourt, Clinton Ezekiel, and Rufa’i Abubakar for defensive stability.

Defenders Ocheche Amos Onyejefu and Daniel Bameyi add international experience, while midfielders Daniel Daga and Israel Ayuma contribute strength and creativity.

In attack, the Flying Eagles showcase offensive power with Achichi Oseer, Kparobo Arierhi, and Sani Suleman.

Nigeria’s Group F fixtures

29 September Norway-Nigeria (17:00 local time, Estadio Fiscal)

2 October Nigeria-Saudi Arabia (20:00 local time, Estadio Fiscal)

5 October Nigeria-Colombia (20:00 local time, Estadio Fiscal)

US Monastir cruise past East End Lions to progress as Police FC advance
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

US Monastir cruise past East End Lions to progress as Police FC advance

Tunisian side US Monastir cruised past Sierra Leone’s East End Lions with a resounding 3-1 victory at the Taieb Mhiri Stadium, wrapping up a commanding 7-1 aggregate win over two legs.

The Tunisians wasted no time, scoring twice within the first seven minutes through Naude Zeguei and Haj Ali Moez, effectively sealing their fate.

Although Ali Conteh gave East End Lions a glimmer of hope early in the second half, an own goal by Alpha Kamara in the 71st minute made sure of Monastir’s comfortable progression.

With their dominant performance across both legs, the North Africans emerge as early favorites in the tournament.

Simba SC from Tanzania and Kenya Police FC secured their spots in the Second Preliminary Round of the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League, albeit through different routes.

Simba drew 1–1 against Gaborone United in Dar es Salaam, progressing with a 2–1 aggregate score. Jean Carlos Ahoua’s goal put Simba ahead before Lebogang Ditsele equalized for Gaborone with a penalty, but they couldn’t find a winner.

Kenya Police FC faced a tough challenge, losing 2–0 at home to Mogadishu City. However, their 3–1 first-leg victory in Somalia meant they advanced on away goals despite the tie ending 3–3.

In Eswatini, Nsingizini Hotspurs defeated Zimbabwe’s Simba Bhora 4–2 on penalties after a 1–0 win in the second leg leveled the tie at 1–1 on aggregate. Shongwe Nkosingiphile’s last-minute goal forced penalties, where Hotspurs held their nerve to advance.

Additionally, Nigeria’s Rivers United secured a 1-0 victory over Aigles du Congo, while Burkina Faso’s Rahimo FC advanced past AS Mangasport on penalties after a goalless draw over two legs.

Orlando Pirates ease past to progress in CAF Champions League
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Orlando Pirates ease past Lioli to progress in CAF Champions League

Orlando Pirates have successfully advanced to the second preliminary round of the CAF Champions League following a convincing 4-0 victory over Lioli FC at Orlando Stadium on Saturday.

This commanding performance over two legs sends the Buccaneers straight to the next round.

Next up, the Pirates will face the winner of the match between DR Congo’s Saint-Eloi Lupopo and the Sudanese powerhouses, Al-Merreikh, for a coveted spot in the group stages.

The Soweto giants struck first with an impressive goal from in-form winger Tshepang Moremi, who found the net just before halftime.

Moremi quickly added another four minutes after the break, giving Pirates a solid two-goal advantage early in the second half.

Yanela Mbuthuma, who came on as a substitute, made an immediate impact by scoring in the 79th minute, and just two minutes later, he completed his brace.

This performance led Abdeslam Ouaddou’s squad to a resounding 7-0 aggregate win over the Lesotho champions, having triumphed in the first leg with a 3-0 scoreline.

 

Friday, 26 September

  • Zilimadjou (Comoros) 0-1 Remo Stars (Nigeria) – Remo Stars progress 5-0 on aggregate

Saturday, 27 September

  • ASAS (Djibouti) 1-1 Aigle Noir (Burundi) – 1-1 on aggregate, Aigle Nior advance on away goals rule
  • Black Bulls (Mozambique) 1-0 Leopard (Congo) – Black Bulls progress 1-0 on aggregate
  • Orlando Pirates (South Africa) 4-0 Lioli (Lesotho) Orlando Pirates progress 7-0 on aggregate
  • Silver Strikers (Malawi) 0-0 Elgeco Plus (Madagascar) 1-1 on aggregate, Silver Strikers advance on away goals rule
  • St Eloi Lupopo (DR Congo) v Al-Merreikh (Sudan)
  • Mlandege (Zanzibar) 3-2 Ethiopian Insurance (Ethiopia) – Ethiopian Insurance progress 4-3 on aggregate
  • Young Africans (Tanzania) 2-0 Wiliete (Angola) – Young Africans progress 5-0 on aggregate
  • Horoya (Guinea) 2-0 Al Hilal Benghazi (Libya) – Horoya progress 2-1 on aggregate
  • Petro Atlético (Angola) 3-0 Cercle de Joachim (Mauritius) – Petro Atletico progress 6-0 on aggregate
  • Vipers (Uganda) 1-0 African Stars (Namibia) – Vipers progress 2-0 on aggregate
  • Stade Malien (Mali) 2-0 Tempête MOCAF (Central African Republic) – Stade Malien progress 7-0 on aggregate
  • Espérance Tunis (Tunisia) 4-1 AS FAN (Niger) – Esperance progress 7-1 on aggregate
  • FAR Rabat (Morocco) 2-1 Real Banjul (Gambia) – FAR Rabat progress 4-1 on aggregate
  • MC Alger (Algeria) 3-0 Fassell (Liberia)  – MC Alger progress 3-0 on aggregate
  • Berkane (Morocco) 3-1 ASC Kara (Togo) – Berkane progress 4-2 on aggregate

Sunday, 28 September

  • Nsingizini Hotspurs (Eswatini) v Simba Bhora (Zimbabwe)
  • Simba (Tanzania) v Gaborone United (Botswana)
  • Mangasport (Gabon) v Rahimo (Burkina Faso)
  • Police FC (Kenya) v Mogadishu City (Somalia)
  • Rivers United (Nigeria) v Aigles du Congo (DR Congo)
  • Al-Hilal Omdurman (Sudan) v Jamus (South Sudan)
  • ASEC Mimosas (Côte d’Ivoire) v Power Dynamos (Zambia)
  • Monastir (Tunisia) v East End Lions (Sierra Leone)
  • Jaraaf (Senegal) v Colombe (Cameroon)
  • Al Ahly Tripoli (Libya) v Dadjè (Benin)
  • Kabylie (Algeria) v Bibiani Gold Stars (Ghana)
  • Nouadhibou (Mauritania) v Fundación Bata (Equatorial Guinea)

Wednesday, 1 October

  • APR (Rwanda) v Pyramids (Egypt)

Saturday, 4 October

  • Al-Merreikh (Sudan) v St Eloi Lupopo (DR Congo)

Sunday, 5 October

  • Pyramids (Egypt) v APR (Rwanda)
Defeat for Egypt against Japan in FIFA U20 World Cup Opener
by Football Sierra Leone

Defeat for Egypt against Japan in FIFA U20 World Cup opener

Egypt's U20 national team kicked off their FIFA U20 World Cup campaign in Chile with a disappointing 2-0 loss to Japan early at Estadio Nacional Julio Martínez Prádanos on Saturday 27 September.

A penalty by Rion Ichihara and a expertly executed shot by Hisatsugu Ishii secured a victory for Japan against Egypt in Santiago.

Japan’s opener  – Japan took the lead in the 29th minute when defender Rion Ichihara from RB Leipzig converted a penalty kick.

Shortly after halftime, Shonan Bellmare striker Hisatsugu Ishii extended Japan’s lead with a powerful finish, assisted by Shunsuke Saito, which the Egyptian goalkeeper couldn’t stop.

Group A Outlook – Egypt now faces a tough road ahead in Group A, which also features hosts Chile and New Zealand. Chile is set to meet New Zealand in a match that could significantly influence the group standings.

Group A

Japan 2-0 Egypt

Japan goals: Rion Ichihara pen (29), Hisatsugu Ishii (48)

Egypt’s U-20s take on Japan in FIFA U-20 World Cup opener in Chile
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Egypt take on Japan in FIFA U-20 World Cup opener in Chile

The opening matches of the 24th U-20 World Cup will feature Japan against Egypt, the Republic against Ukraine, Chile against New Zealand, and Paraguay against Panama.

Egypt’s Young Pharaohs kick off their campaign at Estadio Nacional Julio Martínez Prádanos this evening as they build from their impressive top-four finish at the U-20 AFCON held in Cairo last May.

This marks their first appearance at the World Cup since 2013 and their ninth outing overall, with a notable highlight being their bronze medal finish in 2001.

In Group A, Egypt faces tough competition from hosts Chile, Japan, and New Zealand. They will open their campaign against Japan, followed by a match with New Zealand, and a crucial showdown against Chile in Santiago.

Egypt qualified for the tournament with a strong performance in the TotalEnergies U20 AFCON, where coach Osama Nabih’s side reached the semi-finals, describing it as a “North African derby” and an “early continental final.”

Fixtures – Saturday 27 September

Japan v Egypt

Korea Republic v Ukraine
Chile v New Zealand
Paraguay v Panama