Category: Football Africa

Morocco Edge Benin in International Friendly contest
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Morocco Edge Benin in International Friendly contest

Ayoub El Kaabi scored a stunning scissor kick in the 47th minute, highlighting Morocco’s dominant first half and energizing at the Stade Foot Fès.

Fezi’s game drew a full house as many local supporters of the national team in a decisive test of their tactical depth and squad rotation gathered.

Morocco won a tough struggle against a tenacious Benin team trying to contain the attacking attacks of the Atlas Lions.

Morocco controlled possession throughout the first half, keeping pressure deep in Benin’s side as they patiently sought for an opening. Just as it looked the sides would enter halftime level, Ayoub El Kaabi produced a moment of magic in the 47th minute, just at the conclusion of stoppage time.

Clinging to a well-placed cross, he delivered a fantastic scissor kick past the goalkeeper, causing the Fez audience to celebrate. Morocco’s domination throughout the half earned this objective a well-deserved payoff that gave the second half momentum.

After the break, Morocco kept pushing for a second goal, but a string of missed opportunities and strong defense by Benin kept the score unchanged, and the game ended with a well deserved 10 win for the home side.

Both teams’ preparations for the approaching Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) include this worldwide friendly.

Uganda Cranes share spoils in Marrakech with Gambia Scorpions
by Football Sierra Leone

Uganda Cranes share spoils in Marrakech with Gambia Scorpions

Uganda Cranes and The Gambia Scorpions played to a 1-1 draw in an international friendly match at the Stade de Marrakech Annexe pitch on Monday, June 9, 2025.

Rogers Kassim Mato gave Uganda Cranes the lead, but Manneh Alasana equalised for The Gambia with a well-taken penalty.

Both goals were scored in the first half, with Mato, who plays for Vardar Skopje in North Macedonia, heading in Patrick Jonah Kakande’s curling corner kick in the 25th minute.

The Gambia, led by former Uganda Cranes coach Jonathan McKinstry, put pressure on Uganda in the first half, nearly equalising with a powerful strike that hit the woodwork, leaving goalkeeper Isima Watenga out of position. Alasana capitalised on a penalty opportunity, confidently driving it past Watenga, who had dived to his left.

Following an unfortunate injury to Watenga, Joel Mutakubwa stepped in as goalkeeper just seven minutes into the second half. Uganda Cranes’ head coach, Joseph Paul Put, made several key substitutions strategically, bringing on defender Hilary Mukundane, Travis Mutyaba, Denis Omedi, Shafik Nana Kwikiriza, and later Enock Ssebagala to bolster the team’s efforts.

In the closing moments of the match, Uganda had promising chances to secure a win, but Omedi and Allan Oyirwoth were unable to convert, leaving the scoreline unsettled.

Ex-Algeria boss Djamel Belmadi returns to Qatar's Al Duhail
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Ex-Algeria boss Djamel Belmadi returns to Qatar’s Al Duhail

Djamel Belmadi has been appointed as the head coach of Al Duhail in the Qatar Stars League. This marks his third tenure at the club after two previous periods.

After leaving his position with the Algerian national team, Belmadi found himself out of work. At 49 years old, he has a deep understanding of the top league in Qatar.

“The management of Al-Dahail Athletic Club has reached an agreement with the manager Jamal Belmadi to return to leading the club’s first team foo

“The management of Al-Dahail Athletic Club has reached an agreement with the manager Jamal Belmadi to return to leading the club’s first team football again starting from next season.

Jamal Belmadi had previously taken the captaincy of the team in two previous events in 2010 to 2012, then took the captaincy again in 2015 to 2018, where with the team he succeeded in winning the Qatar Super League championship in 4 events, the Prince Cup in two occasions, the Qatar Cup once,” the club noted in their statement

During his time with Duhail, formerly known as Lekhwiya SC, from 2010 to 2012 and then again from 2015 to 2018, he celebrated significant success, clinching four league titles, two Emir Cups, and a Qatar Cup.

Belmadi is best known for leading Algeria to win the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt. Al Duhail decided to part ways with former coach Christophe Galtier after he did not win the league title. Belmadi now has a chance to restart his coaching career with a club he is familiar with.

A week earlier, Al Duhail also let go of Kenyan star striker Michael Olunga and Moroccan winger Hakim Ziyech.

Aberdeen sign Ghanaian naitive Emmanuel Gyamfi Schalke 04
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Aberdeen sign Ghanaian native Emmanuel Gyamfi from Schalke 04

Emmanuel Gyamfi, a highly rated German youth international, has officially signed with the Dons. The versatile left-back joins on a four-year deal from FC Schalke 04, a team in the Bundesliga 2. The fee for the transfer is undisclosed and is subject to international clearance and visa formalities.

The 20-year-old Emmanuel arrives at Pittodrie after progressing through the esteemed FC Schalke 04 academy, where he was recognised as one of their brightest prospects. “I’m really happy to be here, and so is my family. I am ready to go,” he remarked.

“Now that everything is sorted, I can focus on pre-season, and I am going to work hard before training starts. I will give my best to help the team. I want to show the fans what I can do, as this is a good club, and we all want to achieve even more than we did last season. It was wonderful to see all the fan celebrations after winning the cup. It motivates me to want to do it again, as you can see how much they love Aberdeen.

“It’s a dream to play in Europe on that stage. It can be challenging, but we are going to be ready as a team after a strong pre-season.” As an attacking full-back, Gyamfi brings pace, technical ability, and a keen eye for goal to the Aberdeen squad.

After signing his first professional contract with FC Schalke 04 in 2024, he gained senior experience on loan at VVV-Venlo during the 2024-2025 season.

Don’s boss, Jimmy Thelin, commented on the new acquisition, saying, “Emmanuel is a player we’ve monitored for some time. He has the qualities of a modern full-back—dynamic and hardworking. His development at Schalke and his loan spell show his potential, and we believe he will thrive here.”

Ghanaian forward Kelvin Ofori excited after joining Slovan Bratislava
by Football Sierra Leone

Ghanaian forward Kelvin Ofori excited after joining Slovan Bratislava

Ghanaian forward Kelvin Ofori has signed a three-year contract with Slovakian giants Slovan Bratislava.

The Right to Dream Academy graduate is excited about his new adventure with the Slovakian champions after leaving rivals Spartak Trnava.

During his time at Trnava, Ofori made 28 league appearances and scored nine goals, also winning two Slovak Cup titles.

Ofori shared his enthusiasm for joining Slovan Bratislava and playing in Europe. “European football excites me, and I’m keen to chase victories and trophies. A significant factor in my decision was my conversation with the head coach. We talked about my role in the team, and it truly intrigued me. I’m thrilled to be here and ready to embark on this new chapter,” Ofori remarked.

As Slovakian champions, Slovan Bratislava has consistently made its mark in the UEFA Champions League and is set to compete in the tournament again next season. While Ofori gained valuable experience in Europe with Trnava last season, he is looking forward to taking part in elite club competitions for the first time.

“I want to showcase my best performance to the fans and help the team achieve victories and trophies. I believe we can fight for European success again. It would be fantastic to accomplish something special for our fans and the city. I can’t wait for the new season,” he added.

Jonathan Bamba contributes to Chicago's dominant victory over DC United
by FSL News

Jonathan Bamba contributes to Chicago’s dominant victory over DC United

Ivorian Jonathan Bamba and Osman Bukari played key roles in helping the Chicago Fire and Austin FC secure victories in Major League Soccer on Saturday.

At Audi Field, Chicago quickly took the lead against DC United, scoring twice in the first 24 minutes, including a goal from Ivorian winger Bamba. Bamba also assisted on Tom Barlow’s second goal, contributing to a surprising 7-1 victory.

Despite leaving the game due to injury, he has been a standout player for Chicago, scoring three goals and providing seven assists in 16 league matches for the ninth-place team in the Eastern Conference.

In the second match of the day, Austin FC also won, thanks to Bukari, who provided an assist in their 2-0 victory over Colorado Rapids at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park. The Ghanaian winger crossed the ball to Mikkel Desler, who scored the opening goal in the 6th minute.

With this win, Austin ended a six-match winless streak. Bukari now has one goal and three assists in eighteen MLS games this season, including three assists in his last five matches.

League action concludes on Sunday with three matches, including Los Angeles FC’s Denis Bouanga facing Sporting Kansas City. During the international window, MLS saw limited activity, with only two games on Saturday.

At Audi Field, the Chicago Fire took an early lead against DC United, with Jonathan Bamba scoring the second goal in the 24th minute, leading to a dominant 7-1 win. Bamba also assisted Tom Barlow and has recorded three goals and seven assists this season, helping Chicago to ninth in the Eastern Conference.

Meanwhile, Austin FC defeated Colorado Rapids 2-0, thanks in part to Osman Bukari, who assisted Mikkel Desler’s opening goal in the sixth minute.

This victory allowed Austin FC to break a six-match winless streak. Bukari’s contributions this season now include one goal and three assists in eighteen MLS games, with three assists in his last five matches.

As the weekend concludes, league action will continue on Sunday with three games, including Los Angeles FC’s Denis Bouanga facing Sporting Kansas City.

Nigeria's Super Eagles come from behind to draw with Russia
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Nigeria’s Super Eagles come from behind to draw with Russia

The Super Eagles arrived in Moscow feeling confident after winning the Unity Cup in west London last week. They were able to secure a 1-1 result even without several key players, such as Victor Osimhen, Alex Iwobi, Ademola Lookman, and Ola Aina.

These absences gave chances to players like Victor Boniface and Christantus Uche, but Tolu Arokodare stood out the most. He has now shown that he deserves to start in the important World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and South Africa later this year.

The hosts took the lead just before the half-hour mark through an unfortunate own goal by Semi Ajayi, who redirected Danil Krugovoy’s cross into his own net.

In the 71st minute, Nigeria’s Arokodare seized a moment of carelessness from Russian goalkeeper Matvey Safonov, collecting a poor pass and scoring with a low shot.

Despite facing more Russian attacks, Nigeria held on for a draw, but their overall performance was disappointing.

International friendlies: Morocco, Cameroon and the Gambia all register wins
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

International friendlies: Morocco, Cameroon and the Gambia register wins

On Friday, African national teams were busy testing their prowess during the June FIFA window. While some top teams played in Europe, several matches between African teams took place in Morocco.

In Morocco, Cameroon, Niger, Burundi, Burkina Faso, and the Central African Republic all won their matches. In Marrakech, Cameroon beat Uganda 3-0.

Cameroon scored through set pieces. Flavien Boyomo and Jean Batoum scored their first goals for the team with headers from corner kicks. Patrick Soko also scored his first goal for the national team, assisted by captain Vincent Aboubakar.

Earlier, Gambia beat Equatorial Guinea 2-1 in Marrakech, with both goals from Adama Sidibeh. Gambia will face Uganda next, while Equatorial Guinea will play Cameroon on Monday in Morocco.

In Casablanca, Niger faced Gabon in an exciting match that ended 4-3 in favor of Niger. Youssouf Oumarou and Oumar Sako each scored, and Daniel Sosah added two goals. Jim Allevinah, Andre Biyogho Poko, and Guelor Kanga scored for Gabon.

In Mohammedia, Burkina Faso bounced back from a recent loss to defeat Zimbabwe 2-0. New signing Stephane Aziz Ki scored first in the 22nd minute, followed by Cyriaque Irie, who scored just before halftime.

Burundi achieved a 1-0 victory over Guinea-Bissau in Casablanca, with Bienvenue Kanakimana scoring the only goal from a cross.

In another match, the Central African Republic came from behind to defeat Mauritania. Hemeya Tanjy scored a penalty for Mauritania, but Gabriel Oualengbe equalized, and Paul Guinari scored the winner in stoppage time.

https://twitter.com/bittar32/status/1931246271198548171

Uganda's Cranes set for International friendly doubleheader
by FSL News

Uganda’s Cranes set for International friendly doubleheader

Uganda Cranes have finished selecting their squad in Marrakech, Morocco against Cameroon on Friday, June 6, and the Gambia on Monday, June 9—as the Cranes prepare for upcoming competitive matches.

Bobosi Byaruhanga, Elio Capradossi, Jordan Obita, Allan Oyirwoth, Isaac Muleme, and Elvis Bwomono have joined the team, increasing the total number of players to 27.

Striker Steven Mukwala will not be joining the team due to a minor injury he sustained while playing for Simba SC in Tanzania.

Wigan Athletic defender Toby Sibbick was the first of the eight foreign-based players to arrive at the training camp. With Mukwala’s injury, there are now seven foreign players available.

The team will hold its second training session this evening in Marrakech, with all players expected to participate.

Full Uganda Cranes Squad in Marrakech:

Goalkeepers

Isima Watenga (Golden Arrows, South Africa)

Nafian Alionzi (Defence Forces, Ethiopia)

Joel Mutakubwa (BUL FC, Uganda)

Hannington Sebwalunyo (NEC FC, Uganda)

Defenders

Elvis Bwomono (St Mirren, Scotland)

Nico Wadada (Vipers SC, Uganda)

Elio Capradossi (AS Cittadella, Italy)

Arnold Odong (SC Villa, Uganda)

Toby Sibbick (Wigan Athletic, England)

Hilary Mukundane (Vipers SC, Uganda)

Jordan Obita (Hibernian FC, Scotland)

Isaac Muleme (Viktoria Žižkov, Czech Republic)

Midfielders

Bobosi Byaruhanga (Oakland Roots, USA)

Kenneth Semakula (Club Africain, Tunisia)

Allan Oyirwoth (New England Revolution, USA)

Enock Ssebagala (NEC FC, Uganda)

Abdu Karim Watambala (Vipers SC, Uganda)

Allan Okello (Vipers SC, Uganda)

Travis Mutyaba (Bordeaux, France)

Forwards

Dennis Omedi (APR FC, Rwanda)

Hakim Kiwanuka (APR FC, Rwanda)

Shafik Nana Kwikiriza (KCCA FC, Uganda)

Rogers Mato (FK Vardar, North Macedonia)

Usama Arafat (KCCA FC, Uganda)

Patrick Jonah Kakande (SC Villa, Uganda)

Ivan Ahimbisibwe (URA FC, Uganda)

Mohammad Shaban

Nigerian midfielder Onuche Ogbelu pens new Espérance deal
by Football Sierra Leone

Nigerian midfielder Onuche Ogbelu pens new Espérance deal

Tunisian club Espérance Sportive de Tunis has extended Nigerian midfielder Onuche Ogbelu’s contract.

The 22-year-old’s old contract was set to end in 2026, but now he will stay with the club until June 2028. This extension shows the club’s strong belief in him as a promising young player for the upcoming season.

Ogbelu is a key player in Espérance’s midfield. Since joining from Nigeria’s Fosla Academy in September 2023, he has made 53 appearances. He has also helped the team win two Tunisian Ligue 1 titles, one Tunisian Cup, and one Tunisian Super Cup.

His most memorable moment came when he scored the winning goal with a powerful shot from outside the box in the Tunisian Cup final against Club Sportif de la Médina de Tunis. This performance established him as a big-game player.

Espérance acted quickly to secure his future due to growing interest from other clubs in Africa and Europe.