Category: African News

Our African football page passionately on all continental topics of all National and International football news, Identifying football heroes on our continent.

Madueke hails Trevoh Chalobah's 'leadership' after Man of the Match performance
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Noni Madueke hails Trevoh Chalobah’s ‘leadership’ after top performance

Sierra Leone-born Trevoh Chalobah was named Man of the Match after his impressive performance upon his return to the London side Chelsea.

Chelsea were level at half-time during their 3-1 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers on Monday at Stamford Bridge in the Premier League. However, they managed to recover in the second half to secure all three points.

This win allowed them to climb back into the top four of the league, with returning central defender Trevoh Chalobah playing a pivotal role. His teammate, Noni Madueke, praised the 25-year-old for his outstanding performance.

Madueke described Chalobah’s display as “unbelievable” in the match on Monday. The victory for Enzo Maresca’s men was significant, especially for Chalobah, who had spent the first half of the season on loan at Crystal Palace.

“He did an amazing job,” Adarabioyo told Sky Sports post-match. “He did everything flawlessly from a tactical point of view, so I am very happy for him.”

At one point, it seemed that he had no future with the current manager, who had trimmed the squad at Stamford Bridge upon his arrival.

Ivorian giant outfit Asec Mimosas pick quarter-final ticket
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Ivorian giant outfit Asec Mimosas pick quarter-final ticket

From Group C, ASEC Mimosas reached the CAF Confederation Cup quarter-finals with a 4-0 win over Orapa United, with Celestine Ecua scoring twice. USM Alger topped Group C by defeating ASC Jaraaf 2-0, thanks to late goals from Ismail Belkacemi and Saadi Redouani.

In Group B, Renaissance Berkane made a strong statement by beating Stellenbosch 5-0 in their last group match. Berkane’s performance featured two goals from Pape Bassène and early strikes from Omar Lamlioui and Youssef Mehri, securing them a total of 14 points as group winners.

Lamlioui scored first just seven minutes in, followed by Mehri eight minutes later. In the second half, Bassène added two goals, and Youssef Zoughdi completed the rout.

Despite this loss, Stellenbosch advanced to the quarter-finals as runners-up with nine points. They succeeded thanks to Deportivo Luanda-Sul’s 1-0 victory over Stade Malien.

These results marked a significant achievement for Stellenbosch in their first continental tournament, though they will need to improve before the knockout stages.

Ivorian descent Romain Esse speaks after joining Crystal Palace
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Ivorian descent Romain Esse speaks after joining Crystal Palace

Ivorian descent Romain Esse has spoken for the first time since completing a club record £14.5 million transfer from Millwall to join South London rivals Crystal Palace.

The Lambeth-born winger was officially announced as a Palace player on Saturday morning, signing a five-and-a-half-year deal at Selhurst Park.

Esse, who made 66 appearances for Millwall after progressing through their youth system, will be eligible to play for Palace in their Premier League fixture next weekend against Brentford.

Eagles sporting director Dougie Freedman is known for discovering top young talent in the Championship, with notable successes including Adam Wharton, Michael Olise, and Eberechi Eze. Olise, who plays in the same position as Esse, left for Bayern Munich in the summer for £50 million.

“I’m very much looking forward to it – I’m really excited,” Esse told PalaceTV. “It’s a great project and opportunity – I can’t wait to get started. It’s been a long process, but I’m just happy it’s finally done. The club is heading in a fantastic direction.

“The next step in my development is very important. I believe this is the best place for me. I can’t wait to start playing under the manager.

“This is the perfect environment for opportunities and to elevate my game to the next level to advance my career. I’m eager to play in the Premier League, and most importantly, for Crystal Palace.”

International

On 22 March 2023, Esse debuted for England U18 in a 2-1 victory over Croatia in Medulin. Then, on 6 September 2023, he made his debut for England U19 during a 1-0 loss to Germany in Oliva.

CAF Champions League Quarter-finals line up for to wrap up this weekend
by Football Sierra Leone

CAF Champions League Quarter-finals line up to wrap up this weekend

The quarter-finals of this season’s CAF Champions League will be determined this weekend as the premier club competition in Africa concludes its group matches.

This season has been thoroughly engaging, characterized by unexpected outcomes, compelling moments, and a notable number of goals. To date, Al-Hilal SC (Sudan) and five additional clubs have secured their places in the quarter-finals.

These teams include the reigning champions, Al Ahly (Egypt), AS FAR (Morocco), Orlando Pirates (South Africa), Esperance (Tunisia), and Pyramids FC (Egypt).

Two remaining spots will be determined from Groups A and B. Al Ahly and Orlando Pirates have already advanced from Group C while Esperance and Pyramids FC have progressed from Group D.

In Group A, the match between MC Alger (8 points) and Young Africans (7 points) in Dar es Salaam promises to be highly competitive. Young Africans will aim to overcome their previous 2-0 loss to MC Alger in December.

In Group B, Raja Casablanca will compete against the eliminated Maniema Union while also looking toward AS FAR, who will take on Mamelodi Sundowns in Pretoria.

AS FAR aims to finish at the top of Group B, while Sundowns, currently just one point behind, require only a draw to advance. As five clubs have already qualified, there remains an element of pride to compete for in the final round of fixtures.

The Pirates will travel to Cairo to face Al Ahly, who previously held them to a goalless draw in Soweto two weeks ago.

Finally, Al Hilal seeks to recover from their recent home defeat to Young Africans with an away victory against TP Mazembe, who have already exited the competition.

TotalEnergies CAF Champions League Match Day 6 Fixtures: Saturday, 18 January

Group A

  • 13h00 GMT | TP Mazembe v Al Hilal FC
  • 13h00 GMT | Young Africans SC v MC Alger

Group C

  • 16h00 GMT | Stade d’Abidjan v CR Belouizdad
  • 16h00 GMT | Al Ahly SC v Orlando Pirates FC

Group D

  • 19h00 GMT | Esperance v Sagrada Esperança 
  • 19h00 GMT | Pyramids v Djoliba FC

Sunday, 19 January:

Group B

  • 16h00 GMT | Maniema Union v Raja Casablanca
  • 16h00 GMT | Sundowns v AS FAR
Bafana Bafana forward Percy Tau set for Qatar Super Cup debut
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Bafana Bafana forward Percy Tau set for Qatar Super Cup debut

Bafana Bafana forward Percy Tau, who recently completed his first training session with the new club Qatar SC after joining from Al Ahly, is set for his club debut in the Qatari Super on Friday.

Qatar SC will entertain Al-Nasr SC in the UAE for the Qatar Super Cup at the Al-Maktoum Stadium a multi-purpose stadium in Oud Metha, Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

The experienced Bafana Bafana attacker will feature and look to help his team lift the Qatari Super Cup.

Tau signed a six-month contract as he prepares to help the team stay in the league. If successful, his contract will extend for two additional years.

Currently, Qatar SC is in second-to-last place in the 12-team Qatar Stars League, with 10 points from 12 matches.

Tau’s playing time decreased at Al Ahly, where he made 15 appearances this season, mostly as a substitute, scoring three goals in the CAF Champions League. In total, he made 126 appearances for Al Ahly, scoring 30 goals and winning 11 trophies.

He joined Al Ahly in August 2021 after being recruited by former coach Pitso Mosimane, following a stint with Brighton and Hove Albion in the Premier League.

Senegal, Nigeria paired in Group D as CHAN 2024 draw Announced
by Football Sierra Leone

Senegal, Nigeria paired in Group D as CHAN 2024 draw Announced

Senegal, Nigeria and others have learned their opponents for the African Nations Championship (CHAN), set for August 2025 in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.

The African Football Confederation (CAF) announced the tournament’s postponement but confirmed the draw date this Wednesday in Nairobi.

The 15 qualified teams were placed into three pots based on previous performances, with two additional nations to be decided through ongoing qualifiers.

In the draw, Senegal, the defending champion, is in Group D alongside Congo, Sudan, and Nigeria. Kenya, as hosts and top seeds in Group A, will face Morocco, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Angola, and Zambia.

Group B features Tanzania against Madagascar, Mauritania, Burkina Faso, and the Central African Republic. Uganda, the top seed in Group C, will compete against Niger, Guinea, and two yet-to-be-determined teams from the qualifiers.

Two teams will still secure their spots from Algeria, Comoros, Gambia, Malawi, Egypt, South Africa, and Gabon.

The tournament, comprising only domestic league players, highlights local talent—a unique aspect of African football. The draw ceremony was held at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) with notable East African football legends assisting.

Ugandan prospect Allan Oyirwoth pens New England Revolution deal
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Ugandan prospect Allan Oyirwoth pens New England Revolution deal

New England Revolution has officially signed 17-year-old Ugandan football talent Allan Oyirwoth. The promising midfielder, known for his skills in Uganda, joins the team with high expectations as he embarks on his first international adventure.

The contract will officially begin on Oyirwoth’s 18th birthday, January 23, 2025, and will last until the end of the 2028 MLS season, with a club option for one additional year in 2029.

He has already made an impact on the national stage, representing Uganda’s senior team.

Described as a “virtuoso,” Oyirwoth’s exceptional talent has captured the attention of scouts and fans alike. Although adapting to Major League Soccer presents challenges, the Revolution is optimistic about his potential to succeed and grow within the team.

His signing has created excitement among fans, who look forward to seeing him bring creativity to the midfield. Oyirwoth’s move not only marks a significant milestone for his career but also serves as inspiration for future Ugandan footballers.

As he steps into the spotlight, both the Revolution and Ugandan supporters will be watching closely, hoping for his success in representing Ugandan football on a global stage.

Nigeria appoint Ex-Mali coach Éric Sékou Chelle as New Super Eagles coach
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Ex-Mali coach Éric Sékou Chelle appointed as New Super Eagles coach

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has named Éric Chelle as the new head coach of Nigeria’s senior men’s football team, the Super Eagles. He is the third coach to take over since José Peseiro resigned in March 2024.

The NFF announced Chelle’s appointment on Tuesday, following a video statement from President Ibrahim Gusau that hinted at the news.

“The NFF Executive Committee has approved the Technical and Development Sub-Committee’s recommendation to appoint Mr. Éric Sékou Chelle as Head Coach of the Super Eagles,” the NFF said.

During a meeting in Abuja on January 2, 2025, the committee recommended Chelle for the job. The Executive Committee approved this recommendation on January 7.

Chelle has played five times for Mali’s national team and has coached clubs like GS Consolat, FC Martigues, Boulogne, and MC Oran. He was the head coach of Mali’s national team from 2022 until he was dismissed on June 13, 2024.

A highlight of Chelle’s time with Mali was their quarterfinal performance at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Although they lost to the eventual champions, Côte d’Ivoire, their fluid and attacking style of play received praise.

Werder Bremen sign  Burkina Faso international defender Issa Kabore on loan
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Burkina Faso international defender Issa Kabore happy to join Werder Bremen

Burkina Faso international defender Issa Kabore was pleased after he joined German side Werder Bremen on loan from Manchester City until the end of the season. The 23-year-old previously played on loan at Benfica.

“I’m excited about my new challenge at Werder,” said Kabore. “I want to help the team build on a strong start this season and get to know the club and the city.”

Head coach Ole Werner is pleased with the signing. “Issa is a skilled player who is strong and fast. His arrival gives us more options in our play, and we believe he will fit well with our team.”

Kabore started his career at Rahimo FC in Burkina Faso, joined KV Mechelen in Belgium in 2019, and moved to Manchester City in 2021. He has had loan spells at Marseille, Luton Town, and Benfica. Kabore has over 40 caps for his national team, and he has played in Ligue 1, the Belgian Jupiler Pro League, and the Premier League.

“Issa is an exciting player with experience in various leagues,” said Peter Niemeyer, Werder’s head of professional football. “With Deman’s transfer and Agu’s injury, we are glad to sign Issa quickly.”

Kabore joined Man City in 2020 from Belgian side KV Mechelen and was sent back on loan to them for the same season.

Berkane through to CAF Confederation Cup knockout stage
by Football Sierra Leone

Berkane through to CAF Confederation Cup knockout stage

The CAF Confederation Cup Matchday 4 had exciting games over the weekend. RS Berkane became the first team to qualify for the quarter-finals as teams compete for spots in the knockout stages. With only two matches left, the competition is heating up.

  • Group A: Constantine Leads, Simba Close Behind

CS Constantine dominated with a 4-0 win over Angola’s Bravos do Maquis. Miloud Rebiai and Tosin Omoyele scored early goals, while Abdennour Belhocini and Dadi El Hocine Mouaki added two late goals. Simba SC also won, beating CS Sfaxien 1-0 with a goal from Jean Ahoua. Both teams now have nine points. Bravos are in third place with six points, while Sfaxien remains winless and out of contention.

  • Group B: Berkane Qualifies, Stellenbosch Revives Hopes

RS Berkane qualified for the knockout stages by beating Stade Malien 1-0, keeping their perfect record. Stellenbosch FC boosted their chances with a 2-0 win over CD Lunda Sul, thanks to two goals from Andre de Jong. Berkane leads Group B with 12 points, followed by Stellenbosch with six. Stade Malien has four points, and Lunda Sul has one point.

  • Group C: Close Competition

USM Alger held the top spot in their group after drawing 1-1 with ASEC Mimosas in Abidjan. USM Alger has eight points, while Mimosas and Jaraaf each have five points after Jaraaf’s 1-0 win over Orapa United, who sit at the bottom with two points.

  • Group D: Enyimba Excels, Zamalek Struggles

Enyimba amazed fans in Aba with a strong 4-1 victory over Mozambique’s Black Bulls, led by two goals from Joseph Atule. On the other hand, Zamalek could only manage a goalless draw against Al Masry. Zamalek leads with eight points, Al Masry has five points, and both Enyimba and Black Bulls have four points.

Matchday 4 Results

Group A

  • Constantine 4-0 Bravos do Maquis
  • Simba 1-0 CS Sfaxien

Group B

  • Berkane 1-0 Stade Malien
  • Stellenbosch 2-0 CD Lunda Sul

Group C

  • USM Alger 1-1 ASEC Mimosas
  • Jaraaf 1-0 Orapa United

Group D

  • Enyimba 4-1 Black Bulls
  • Zamalek 0-0 Al Masry

Group Standings

Group A:

  1. Constantine – 9 pts
  2. Simba – 9 pts
  3. Bravos do Maquis – 6 pts
  4. CS Sfaxien – 0 pts

Group B:

  1. Berkane – 12 pts
  2. Stellenbosch – 6 pts
  3. Stade Malien – 4 pts
  4. CD Lunda Sul – 1 pt

Group C:

  1. USM Alger – 8 pts
  2. ASEC Mimosas – 5 pts
  3. Jaraaf – 5 pts
  4. Orapa United – 2 pts

Group D:

  1. Zamalek – 8 pts
  2. Al Masry – 5 pts
  3. Enyimba – 4 pts
  4. Black Bulls – 4 pts