Category: Sport News

Liberia shine in victory over Sierra Leone at the SKD Stadium
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Liberia shine in victory over Sierra Leone at the SKD Stadium

Liberia took control of the second match after losing the first leg at the Southern Arena on Saturday, June 6th. They led 2-0 at halftime at the Samuel Kanyon Doe Stadium and won the game 3-1.

The hosts played with great confidence, creating numerous chances and converting two crucial opportunities before the break. Their attacking movements consistently troubled the opposition’s defence throughout the first half, while their back line maintained an organised and disciplined approach.

Sebastin Teclar opened the scoring for the home team, followed closely by Ayoubah Kosiah, who extended the Lone Star’s advantage just before the halftime whistle.

After the break, Sierra Leone came out swinging, determined to claw their way back into the match. The Leone Stars entered the friendly with a tactical and psychological edge following their first-leg win, although they made seven changes to their lineup.

Nonetheless, the hosts continued to dominate, and they were rewarded when Philip Tarnue netted his first goal for the Lone Star, extending their lead to 3-0 against Sierra Leone at the SKD.

Sierra Leone managed to score a late goal in the second half, with Charlton Athletic striker Daniel Kanu finding the net. However, Moroccan-Belgian coach Mohammed Erradi celebrated his first win as the manager of Liberia, guiding the Lone Star to a 3-1 victory over Sierra Leone. The supporters in the stadium erupted with cheers after the final whistle as Liberia avenged the first defeat.

Liberian striker Sherman vies for the ball with Sierra Leone defender Alpha Turay
Liberian striker Sherman vies for the ball with Sierra Leone defender Alpha Turay
Mali's youngster Seydou Diarra pens deal with SC Austria Lustenau
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Mali’s youngster Seydou Diarra pens deal with SC Austria Lustenau

Newly promoted Austrian Bundesliga team SC Austria Lustenau has signed gifted young player Seydou Diarra. Coming from FC Gueugnon, a team in the French sixth level, the 21-year-old forward has signed a contract through at least 2027.

Diarra, who can play in many attacking roles, last summer switched from Cedar Stars, a Ghana-based club, to Clermont Foot 63 in France. January saw him join FC Gueugnon and score three goals over eleven games.

Diarra is eager for his new adventure and hopes to take home club trophies. He claimed, “From now on, I am quite delighted to be playing for Austria. The team and all the guys have given me a wonderful welcome. The team and I are in good shape, therefore I will do all on the field to reach our shared objectives.

Mirco Papaleo, the athletic director, was upbeat about the recruitment. He continued, “We are happy Seydou chose to come with us. With his speed and skill, he is a gifted young player who will be quite useful for us on the wing. We think he will keep growing with us and turn in great work.

Diarra has been working out with Austria Vienna for two and a half weeks now. The coaches were so impressed by his outstanding play that he was offered a permanent job. He will be playing with Ghanaian player Lord Afrifa, who just moved from Sturm Graz and signed a two-year deal with an option for a third year.

Austria Lustenau was elevated to the Austrian Bundesliga after placing first in Bundesliga 2. On the final day of the season, they defeated SKU Amstetten 2-1 to claim the 2. Liga championship.

Mexico v South Africa opener rekindles memories of 2010
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Mexico and South Africa to reprise 2010 World Cup opener in 2026

South Africa met Mexico at Soccer City in Johannesburg in the inaugural game of the 2010 World Cup. Mexico’s Rafael Marquez scored with only 12 minutes left on the clock, therefore stealing a draw and denying the host country a winning start.

Again, the Bafana Bafana of South Africa will open the 2026 World Cup Group A against Mexico, making their fourth tournament appearance. Though it will be a challenging first game, it offers them an opportunity to prove themselves. The team is ready for this challenge after much practice. (Photo Credit VisitMexico.com)
 

One of Africa’s ten representatives, the Bafana Bafana, head coach, has been speaking ahead of their opener. “You know, it will be a special and fantastic experience for us because my players have never played in this kind of situation before,” the coach said.

“So it will be very important for us to stick to the game plan and not listen to what is happening in the stands. We all know that there will be thousands of Mexicans inside the stadium and maybe a few South Africans.”

Previous World Cups
 
France 1988, South Korea/Japan 2002, and South Africa 2010—the Bafana Bafana have come third in their group each time. Beginning with their match against one of the hosts at City Stadium, they aim to perform better in the USA, Canada, and Mexico this year.
 
History
 
South Africa was the first African country to host a World Cup in 2010. It was also the first host nation to be eliminated in the group stage since the tournament changed to one group stage format in 1986.
 
Conversely, Mexico are the first nation to hold three World Cups—1970, 1986 and 2026. Their strongest World Cup results came in 1970 and 1986, when they were hosts and made the quarterfinals.
 
Both teams played to a 1-1 draw at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa after Siphiwe Tshabalala had opened the scoring for the host team at their Soccer City, Johannesburg, but a Rafael Márquez equaliser cancelled out Tshabalala’s opener.
 
Mexico City Stadium
 
One well-known sports site in southern Mexico City, the Mexico City Stadium—also referred to as Azteca Stadium— has seen several famous events in football history. Renovated to be contemporary and energetic, the stadium is ready for more classic events.
 
Going to the stadium is more than just seeing a game. With merchants hawking flags, tamales, and jerseys, the scene is vibrant. Fans get together to support Mexican football.
 
Its original style combines contemporary design with legacy. The views from the stands are excellent; the refurbished interior has modern technology and comfort without compromising its historical appeal. Many World Cups have been held here, along with many songs and concerts that live on in people’s memories.
 
Though you might not be a football enthusiast, Mexico City Stadium merits a trip. You can go on guided tours to view the locker rooms, players’ tunnel, VIP sections, and even step onto the field where greats like Pelé and Maradona played. Nearby are eateries and coffee shops where you can sample real regional food.
 
A trip to Mexico City would not be complete without seeing this famous venue. It captures the country’s passion, history, and sporting spirit.
 
African Teams at the 2026 World Cup
 
The last team to qualify was the Democratic Republic of the Congo, joining famous African football powerhouses such as Morocco, Tunisia, Egypt, Algeria, Ghana, Cape Verde, South Africa, Côte d’Ivoire, and Senegal. Every one of these countries adds a great history and active soccer scene, therefore heightening the stakes of the event even further. 
Both teams played to a 1-1 draw at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa after Siphiwe Tshabalala had opened the scoring for the host team at their Soccer City, Johannesburg, but a Rafael Márquez equaliser cancelled out Tshabalala's opener.
Both teams played to a 1-1 draw at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa after Siphiwe Tshabalala had opened the scoring for the host team at their Soccer City, Johannesburg, but a Rafael Márquez equaliser cancelled out Tshabalala's opener.
Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan barred from 2026 World Cup
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan barred from 2026 World Cup

Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan will not feature at this summer’s World Cup after being denied entry into the United States, world soccer’s governing body FIFA confirmed on Monday.

According to several reports, a US Customs and Border Protection spokesperson said Artan received additional inspection after arriving in Miami from Istanbul. “Upon arrival in Miami from Istanbul, Artan was selected for additional inspection,” said a US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) spokesperson. “CBP officers thoroughly inspect everyone who arrives in the United States.”

“During this process, officers determined they needed to verify additional information or determine if he would be allowed into the U.S. After completing the inspection, officers found Artan inadmissible for reasons related to vetting and denied him entry,” the statement continued.

Somalia is one of 39 countries which fall under the Trump administration’ That did not elaborate as to why Artan had been denied entry to the country, but nationals from those countries have historically faced extra screening when trying to enter the US.

Artan was recently named Africa’ best male referee in 20plusFive and had been chosen by the Confederation of African Football to referee at the World Cup this summer. A FIFA spokesperson told ESPN FC that: “FIFA is not involved in immigration procedures or visa decisions by the host country.

We have been assured that his status will not change at this point and are monitoring the situation closely. Ultimately it is up to the host government to decide who gets a visa and who is allowed into their country.”

Last month Iran also had travel problems into the United States due to tough immigration restrictions enforced by the Trump administration.

Iran football federation president Mehdi Taj told semi-official Iranian news agency ISNA that the Iranian soccer team were allowed into the US for this summer’ He said they were given permission one day before their opening game kicking off, which led to claims they were being discriminated against.

Iranian head coach Amir Ghalenoei said following the game that several management team members, along with media staff and the team’s executive director, still haven’t been granted access to attend the tournament.

Morocco and Norway end in a tie ahead of the 2026 World Cup opener
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Morocco and Norway end in a tie ahead of the 2026 World Cup opener

An early goal from Brahim Diaz was not enough as Morocco and Norway tied 1-1 in Morocco’s last friendly before the 2026 World Cup.

Morocco started strong and skillfully moved the ball in the first few minutes at Sports Illustrated Stadium, therefore playing well. In the eighth minute, their pressure paid off when Brahim Diaz scored following excellent work from Abde Ezzalzouli.

From the start, Ezzalzouli was busy creating problems on the left wing with his quickness. His assist for Diaz demonstrated Morocco’s offensive prowess as they looked sharp.

Norway took control as the game progressed, with Erling Haaland leading the attack and Martin Ødegaard dominating midfield. Morocco faced a setback before halftime when Ezzalzouli was injured, prompting concerns among fans about his replacement, Soufiane Rahimi.

Despite this disappointment, Morocco fought hard in the second half, while Coach Mohamed Ouahbi made changes to manage player fatigue. Norway equalised in the 76th minute with Ødegaard’s goal, assisted by Oscar Bobb, resulting in a 1–1 draw.

Morocco had mixed feelings about the outcome, with standout performances from Diaz and Ezzalzouli overshadowed by injury concerns ahead of their challenging World Cup opener against Brazil on June 13.

Schalke 04 among European clubs interested in Liberia captain Oscar Dorley
by Football Sierra Leone

Schalke 04 among European clubs interested in Liberia captain Oscar Dorley

Liberian International Oscar Murphy Dorley has once again been headlining the news as top European clubs are eyeing his signature.

The 27-year-old midfielder, who is currently part of Liberia’s Lone Star International friendlies against Sierra Leone, could be on a new roster once again. Spanish giants Deportivo Alavés and Deportivo La Coruña, as well as German clubs Schalke 04 and FC Augsburg, have been linked with Oscar.

The links keep coming for him just before the European summer transfer window opens. The midfielder, who has become one of the most dependable Africans in central Europe while playing for SK Slavia Prague has won several Czech league titles with his club and is a regular participant in UEFA club competitions.

For teams seeking experience and leadership, Oscar is a great choice, as he can play several positions, including central midfielder, defensive midfielder, left midfielder, and even left-back.

Currently under contract with Slavia Prague until June 2027, Oscar, Liberia’s best football talent, is among the highest-rated players in the Czech league. Insiders, however, point to his contract status and the team’s ambitions that may lead to a trade.

Oscar is a desirable prospect for teams looking for seasoned foreign players given over 50 appearances for Liberia and a strong European career.

Focused right now on his international obligations and the next season, he has drawn interest from teams in Spain and Germany. No official offers or contracts have been verified as of yet.

Ex-Leone Stars Assistant Coach Kpaka Reflects on "Proud and Resilient" National Team Journey
by Alusine Rehme Wilson

Paul Kpaka Reflects on “Proud and Resilient” National Team Journey

Former Leone Stars Assistant Coach Paul Augustine Kpaka has expressed pride in the achievements of the outgoing Sierra Leone national team technical staff, describing their tenure as a journey marked by passion, resilience, and a renewed belief in the country’s football potential.

In remarks issued on Saturday, June 6, following the recent changes to the Leone Stars coaching setup, the former Sierra Leone international said serving on the national team’s technical bench had been “a profound honour”. It highlighted the progress made during the past year under former head coach Mohamed Kallon.

Kpaka said the coaching team had worked tirelessly to build a competitive and cohesive squad, establish a clear football identity, and create a foundation capable of delivering sustained success for Sierra Leone on the continental stage. “Together, we became beacons of hope, restoring belief and showcasing Sierra Leonean football’s true potential to a global audience,” Kpaka said.

According to him, the technical team sought not only to improve results on the pitch but also to raise professional standards, strengthen player commitment, and position the Leone Stars for qualification and success at future editions of the Africa Cup of Nations.

While expressing disappointment over what he described as the abrupt and unfair end to their tenure, Kpaka said the circumstances would not overshadow the accomplishments achieved during their time in charge.

“Football teaches us that every setback is just preparation for the next comeback,” he noted, adding that the coaching staff leaves its role “stronger, wiser, and ready for the next challenge.” 

The former striker also expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve the nation, insisting that temporary setbacks should not diminish confidence in Sierra Leonean football’s future.

Kpaka reaffirmed his unwavering support for the Leone Stars, describing the national team as a symbol of national pride and the aspirations of millions of Sierra Leoneans. “Our loyalty remains unwavering. The Leone Stars must embody the spirit of the nation, with the aspirations of millions reflected in every match,” he said.

He concluded by pledging continued support for the national team from wherever he may be, declaring, “Long live the Leone Stars. Long live Sierra Leone.”

Kpaka’s statement comes amid significant changes within the national team setup, bringing an end to a coaching era that many supporters believe helped restore optimism and competitiveness to Sierra Leone’s football landscape.

Sierra Leone edge Liberia in first leg friendly in Bo
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Sierra Leone edge Liberia in first-leg friendly in Bo

On Saturday, Sierra Leone defeated Liberia 1-0 in an International Friendly played at the Southern Arena in Bo City.

Liberia’s Lone Star began a new chapter under head coach Mohammed Erradi, but his debut ended in disappointment with a loss in the Southern Province of Sierra Leone.

Before the game, fans at the stadium welcomed the new Leone Stars head coach, Didier Gomes Da Rosa. His first main job is to lead Sierra Leone in the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.

The game between the two West African teams from the Mano River sub-region lived up to expectations as Leone Stars defeated their arch-rivals, Liberia.

The goal came in the 66th minute from Sierra Leone defender Abdul Jarju Kabia, who opened the score sheet on a pass from the left wing. Liberia searched in the second half, as they looked for an equaliser, but to no avail, as Sierra Leone’s defence stood tall for the win.

Fans at home gave Sierra Leone fans the reason to celebrate, and Abdul Jarju Kabia’s goal showed class and depth in the Leone Stars Squad. The win could not come at a better time for Sierra Leone heading into the return leg in Monrovia Liberia on June 9th.

Sierra Leone edge Liberia in first leg friendly in Bo
Sierra Leone edge Liberia in first leg friendly in Bo
Belgium thrash Tunisia pre-World Cup warm up match
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Belgium thrash Tunisia in pre-World Cup warm-up match

The Tunisia national team concluded their final warm-up match on Saturday with a 0-5 defeat to Belgium in Brussels. Tunisia were outclassed by Belgium’s quality.

Leandro Trossard scored the opener during the first half. In the second half, goals from Charles de Ketelaare, Kevin de Bruyne, Dodi Lukebakio and Nicolas Raskin rounded off the score.

Tunisia started the match relatively well with a few changes from their previous match against Austria. They managed to keep strong for the opening twenty minutes, but it didn’t take long for Belgium to settle into the game and gain confidence.

Belgium went ahead after 28 minutes when Jérémy Doku made a nice run down the wing before crossing the ball into the box for Trossard to slot home easily.

De Ketelaare doubled the Belgium lead after 53 minutes when he met Youri Tielemans cross with a good header. Tunisia had spells of coming forward after De Ketelaare’s goal. Mohamed Belhadj’s strike from distance forced Belgium goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois into a decent save and Elias Achouri later struck the post.

That proved to be the closest Tunisia came until the end of the game as Belgium dominated from thereon out. Tunisia were reduced to ten men when Ismaël Gharbi picked up a second yellow card shortly after the hour mark.

The depleted Tunisia defence couldn’t cope with Belgium’s pressure. De Bruyne scored soon after Gharbi was shown a straight red card before Belgium scored another two goals through Lukebakio and Raskin in the closing ten minutes.

The Tunisian side will now jet off to Mexico where they will play their first two World Cup matches. They take on Sweden on June 14 and Japan on June 20 in Monterrey. They will then return to the US to face the Netherlands on June 25 in Kansas City to round off Group F.

The Pharaohs of Egypt set for pre-World Cup friendly against Brazil
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

The Pharaohs of Egypt set for pre-World Cup friendly against Brazil

Egypt will take on Brazil at Huntington Bank Field in Cleveland, Ohio this Saturday. It’s Egypt’ toughest game to date before the World Cup kicks off next month as they look to gear up for Brazil’s five World Cup titles.

Saturday’s friendly is both nations’ final tune-up before they head to North America for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Mohamed Salah and co delighted home fans with their 1-0 win over Russia in Cairo on Tuesday night and arrived confident after thrashing Saudi Arabia 4-0 while drawing with Spain earlier in March during the international break.

Egypt have kept four clean sheets in a row so far in their preparations for the World Cup and will need to keep that going if they want a chance of progressing from a tough-looking Group G.

Egypt will go into battle against Belgium, New Zealand and Iran knowing their defence will need to keep tight while hoping Mohamed Salah, Omar Marmoush and Mahmoud ‘Trezeguet’ Hassan can find the back of the net consistently if they are to succeed in the United States and Canada.

Egypt last featured at a World Cup back in 2018 and has previously been there for the 1934 and 1990 tournaments. Should they beat expectations, they would be making their fourth appearance at the football’ showpiece tournament.

Egypt qualified for the World Cup with ease, winning eight and drawing two of their last ten matches, scoring 20 goals and conceding just two. Head coach Hossam Hassan, appointed on February 20, 2024, has achieved 21 wins, six draws, and three losses. Right-back Mohamed Hany noted that Egypt is focused on their upcoming game against Brazil.

Brazil, ranked sixth globally and the most successful World Cup nation, has struggled to advance past the quarter-finals in four of the last five tournaments.

Despite a recent 6-2 win over Panama, they faced defeats to Japan and France. Neymar will miss the match against Egypt due to injury, though defenders Marquinhos and Gabriel Magalhães are available to play.

Brazil holds a 6-0 advantage in their overall record against Egypt. Tickets for Saturday’s game in Ohio are still available, with over 40,000 fans expected. Both Mohamed Salah and Vinicius Junior will start, as Egypt faces Belgium and Brazil takes on Morocco on June 15th.