Category: Football Africa

Tunisia suffer heavy World Cup opener defeat to Sweden
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Tunisia suffer heavy World Cup opener defeat to Sweden

One of Africa’s representatives, Tunisia, fell 5-1 to Sweden in their Group F 2026 World Cup opener at the Monterrey Stadium on Sunday, with Viktor Gyokeres and Alexander Isak leading the charge. Sweden fast seized the lead.

Two points ahead of Japan and the Netherlands in the FIFA World Cup 2026, Sweden tops Group F with this victory. With a powerful shot from outside the box, Yasin Ayari —whose father is Tunisian- scored the first goal.

After a wonderful turn and pass from Gyokeres, Isak scored the second goal. Omar Rekik headed in a fantastic cross from Hannibal Mejbri to bring Tunisia back into the match with his first international goal.

Sweden, nevertheless, controlled the second half. Ellyes Skhiri lost the ball to Isak, then Gyokeres scored to pull the score to 3-1. Coming on as a substitute, Mattias Svanberg scored fast; Ayari ended the game with his second goal.

Final score: Sweden 5, Tunisia 1.  

Sweden goals: Ayari (7 & 90+6), Isak (30), Gyokeres (59), Svanberg (84).  

Tunisia goal: Rekik (43).

Amad nets late winner as Côte d'Ivoire claim dramatic victory
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Amad nets late winner as Côte d’Ivoire claim dramatic victory

In an exhilarating game where the woodwork was struck four times, Amad Diallo scored a goal in the 90th minute to help Côte d’Ivoire defeat Ecuador 1-0. 

The game seemed like it would result in a tie until Diallo, who came in as a substitute, shot into the bottom corner and sparked celebrations.

The first part was quite active. With a strong shot from outside the box, Ecuador’s John Yeboah struck the crossbar. Soon after, Alan Minda curled his shot off the bar, missing a fantastic opportunity when he got a perfect pass from Pedro Vite, and Côte d’Ivoire’s goalkeeper Yahia Fofana couldn’t stop it.

Côte d’Ivoire also made opportunities. While Bazoumana Toure had a low shot that needed a fingertip save from Ecuador’s goalie Hernan Galindez, Yan Diomande was extremely active on the right side, generating hazardous runs.

Enner Valencia’s shot from a difficult angle connected with the crossbar in the latter half. Elye Wahi of Côte d’Ivoire then hit the bar with a decent first-time shot he could not hold down.

Having more possession while Ecuador defended, Côte d’Ivoire began to manage the game. Their hard work was rewarded when Amad’s goal moved them to the lead in Group E.

Key Stat -Important number: Yan Diomande, then 19 years and 212 days old, was the first youngster to compete for Côte d’Ivoire in a FIFA World Cup match.

Diomande committed his prize to his mother, still mending from surgery. Said: We were desperate for that. We came here to write history. We still have two more games to play and need to concentrate and strive to win. them. Though Ecuador has excellent players, we kept calm as we knew this game would be challenging.

– Côte d’Ivoire Amad Diallo, goalscorer: We worked diligently, we won, and now we are all happy. It is honourable to speak for our country. It’s difficult as we stand for about 33 million individuals. Every game, we want to win and create history together.

– Yan Diomande, Côte d’Ivoire winger and Better Player of the Match: “We changed our strategy in the second half and dominated the game enough to at least earn a draw. Against a good team, we worked hard. Though it’s not what we hoped for, it’s only the start, and we will keep striving.”

Sebastian Beccacece, Ecuador’s coach: “In the second half, we made the necessary adjustments and were in control enough to secure at least a draw. We put in a tremendous effort against a strong opponent. The final result wasn’t what we wanted, but it’s just the beginning, and we have to keep working.”

Morocco's Ayyoub Bouaddi was impressive in World Cup debut against Brazil
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Morocco’s Ayyoub Bouaddi was impressive in World Cup debut against Brazil

Ayyoub Bouaddi stole the show on Saturday with a strong performance in his first World Cup game at MetLife Stadium. Morocco coach Mohamed Ouahbi, who had complete faith in the young talent, was not surprised by his calm midfield performance.

Sofascore reports that teenage sensation Ayyoub Bouaddi made a spectacular worldwide debut by anchoring Morocco’s midfield against five-time winners Brazil with a stunning 87 touches and 60 precise passes.

With an exciting 1-1 draw, Morocco’s first game in the 2026 FIFA World Cup came to a close. At the 21st minute Ismael Saibari pulled the Atlas Lions ahead only for Vinícius Júnior to draw Brazil just eleven minutes later.

Coming only months after he played for France at the Under-21 level in March, following years in the French youth system, this game was important for Bouaddi as it signalled his senior international debut.

Based on post-match statistics from Sofascore, the 18-year-old midfielder sparkled, leading Morocco with three successful dribbles, 60 accurate passes, and 87 touches. His great debut enabled Morocco to compete against one of the most famous clubs in soccer.

Bouaddi showed control during the game, first taking the lead over Casemiro in the first half, then dominating the midfield versus Fabinho following the break.

Ouahbi told reporters later, “it wasn’t a gamble to start him at just 18.” I pay just attention to players’ performances, not their age. If a player performs well, whether they are 35 or 17, they will play. He also stressed that starting Bouaddi was a confident choice based on the skills of the young player.

The Morocco coach said that starting Bouaddi was a deliberate decision as he was sure the young player would rise to the occasion against Brazil; he rejected the idea of a bold pick. I won’t run away from playing younger players. We knew he would do well, thus it was not at all risky. That wasn’t the kind of game for risking against Brazil.”

Tonight, Ayyoub Bouaddi was unusually composed. One user said, “An underrated performance and our Man of the Match.” Another called him “super exceptional,” emphasising his amazing “composure and passion.”

On June 19 in Foxborough, the Atlas Lions hope to keep this momentum going against Scotland; five days later, there is a final group-stage match against Haiti in Atlanta.

Julián Quiñones has written his name into history
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Mexico Win World Cup Opener in Dramatic Fashion Over South Africa

At a packed Azteca Stadium, Mexico kicked off their 2026 World Cup campaign with a 2-0 victory over South Africa.  Three players sent off made the game fierce. Mexico ended up with ten players, whereas South Africa ended up with nine.

Brazilian official Wilton Sampaio produced three cards as he dismissed South Africa’s Yaya Sithole for stopping a clear goal opportunity and Themba Zwane for slapping, then sent off Mexico’s Cesar Montes for a late foul. 

Fans of Mexico were delighted as they scored the first goal only nine minutes in. Julian Quinones shot the ball forcefully across Ronwen Williams’ legs after Erik Lira tackled Sithole.

Before halftime, Quinones nearly scored again, but his shot struck the right post. When Sithole brought down Brian Gutierrez early in the second half for a red card, things got better for Mexico.

At age 35, striker Raul Jimenez headed in Roberto Alvarado’s cross for his first World Cup goal, sealing the victory. This poignant scene moved the veteran to tears.

For the first time since hosting in 2010, South Africa was in the finals but ended the game with nine men after replacement Zwane was dismissed for hitting Alvarado.

Seventeen-year-old Gilberto Mora, the tournament’s youngest player, was introduced in the second half. Mexico’s Montes fouled Khuliso Mudau late in the game, but they held their two-goal lead.

Mexico is hosting the World Cup for the third time, and they got off to a fantastic start despite the late red card. The Azteca Stadium in Mexico City hosted the first game, just like it did in 1970 and 1986.

Fans loved a spirited opening event featuring Colombian singer Shakira before the game started. Ranked 14th globally, Mexico took charge against South Africa, which is ranked 46 ranks lower.

Following South Africa’s early error that resulted in a goal for Mexico, Sithole’s red card further diminished their prospects of winning. Returning to Wolves next season, Jimenez nearly scored early on, but Williams made an excellent one-handed save.

At last, he scored with a strong header in the second half, demonstrating how much this goal meant to him as he celebrated with his colleagues.

  • Mexico are now unbeaten in their last seven World Cup curtain-raisers, winning six. They beat the Republic 3-1 at the 1998 World Cup in France, Croatia 1-0 at Korea/Japan 2002 World Cup in Korea/Japan, and IR Iran 3-1 at the 2006 World Cup before a 1-1 draw with hosts South Africa in 2010. 

  • Mexico returned to the victory column with a 1-0 defeat of Cameroon at Brazil 2014 and Germany. A goalless draw with Poland followed at Qatar 2022 and a 2-0 win over South Africa in 2026 USA, Canada and Mexico. 

Venue: Mexico City Stadium
Attendance: 80,824
Somali referee Omara Artan, barred from 2026 FIFA World Cup, lands UEFA role
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Somali referee Omar Artan, barred from 2026 FIFA World Cup, lands UEFA role

The Union of European Football Associations, UEFA, has confirmed the appointment of Somali referee Omar Artan to officiate the 2026 UEFA Super Cup.

This highly anticipated match is scheduled for 12 August in Salzburg, featuring UEFA Champions League winners Paris Saint-Germain against UEFA Europa League champions Aston Villa FC.

“Despite his youth, Artan has quickly made a name for himself as one of the world’s leading referees and has been on the FIFA international officiating list since 2018,” UEFA noted. 

He notably officiated the second leg of the 2025/26 CAF Champions League final, solidifying his reputation in the sport. In recognition of his exceptional performances, he was honoured with the CAF Men’s Referee of the Year Award in 2025.

Although Artan was selected as part of the match officials for the FIFA World Cup 2026, he was unable to participate due to restrictions preventing him from entering the United States.

His appointment to referee the UEFA Super Cup falls under the framework of the recent Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between UEFA and CAF, which aims to foster cooperation in various areas, including refereeing. Both UEFA and CAF are dedicated to promoting football development at all levels and upholding the core values of unity, equality, and non-discrimination.

Aleksander Čeferin, UEFA president, said: “Omar Artan is an excellent young but already experienced referee, who has proven himself at the highest competition level of the Confederation of African Football. Football is made to connect people, and UEFA wants to show its respect to Omar and his outstanding officiating skills, which had earned him such a prestigious nomination. I am grateful to my friend CAF President Patrice Motsepe for supporting enthusiastically our initiative.”

Dr Patrice Motsepe, CAF president, said: “Omar Artan has made Somalia and the entire people of the African Continent extremely proud. His receipt of the CAF Men’s Referee of the Year Award 2025 and his appointment as a referee of the FIFA World Cup 2026 are a recognition of his world-class refereeing ability and the international respect that he enjoys. I am very thankful to my friend, Aleksander Čeferin for enabling Omar Artan to officiate the UEFA Super Cup 2026 match. This is a great honour for Omar Artan and for African referees and is also an excellent example of football, bringing together and uniting people from Africa and Europe and worldwide.”

South Africa kick off Africa's 2026 World Cup campaign against Mexico
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

South Africa kick off Africa’s 2026 World Cup campaign against Mexico

South Africa is leading the way as Africa is poised to make history at the 2026 FIFA World Cup with an unprecedented ten teams representing the continent, marking its largest presence ever at the tournament.

Kicking off in North America, South Africa will face co-hosts Mexico in the opening match. This is the first time African teams will have double-digit representation on football’s biggest stage.

The teams representing Africa will be Algeria, Cape Verde, Côte d’Ivoire, DR Congo, Egypt, Ghana, Morocco, Senegal, South Africa, and Tunisia. This milestone follows Morocco’s impressive journey to the semi-finals at Qatar 2022, which changed global perceptions of African teams.

Africa’s World Cup journey began in 1934 with Egypt’s participation. Over the decades, representation gradually grew, with Morocco, DR Congo, and Tunisia among the first to join.

The milestone of five African teams was first achieved in 1998, and the previous record of six was set in 2010 when Ghana reached the quarter-finals.

Cape Verde’s qualification is particularly notable, as it marks their first World Cup appearance. DR Congo’s return since 1974 and South Africa’s comeback after 2010 add further excitement.

Veteran teams like Ghana, Senegal, Morocco, Tunisia, Algeria, Egypt, and Côte d’Ivoire bring valuable experience, while newcomers inject fresh energy into Africa’s challenge.

The 2026 World Cup isn’t just about numbers; it’s about turning this historic representation into record-breaking performances. With higher expectations, Africa arrives in North America with its strongest presence yet.

The journey from Egypt’s debut in 1934 to ten teams in 2026 has been long and challenging, marking a significant moment for African football and its growing ambition on the world stage.

African participation at the FIFA World Cup

1934: Egypt

1970: Morocco

1974: DR Congo

1978: Tunisia

1982: Algeria, Cameroon

1986: Algeria, Morocco

1990: Cameroon, Egypt

1994: Cameroon, Morocco, Nigeria

1998: Cameroon, Morocco, Nigeria, South Africa, Tunisia

2002: Cameroon, Nigeria, Senegal, South Africa, Tunisia

2006: Angola, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Togo, Tunisia

2010: Algeria, Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Nigeria, South Africa

2014: Algeria, Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Nigeria

2018: Egypt, Morocco, Nigeria, Senegal, Tunisia

2022: Cameroon, Ghana, Morocco, Senegal, Tunisia

2026: Algeria, Cape Verde, Côte d’Ivoire, DR Congo, Egypt, Ghana, Morocco, Senegal, South Africa, Tunisia

Africa's representatives at the World Cup since 1934
Africa's representatives at the World Cup since 1934
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.

Algeria impresses in win against the Netherlands in an international friendly
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Algeria stun the Netherlands in World Cup warm-up 

A goal from winger Anis Hadj Moussa gave Algeria an unlikely 1-0 win over the Netherlands on Wednesday in a World Cup warm-up.

Hadj Moussa, who plays for Dutch club Feyenoord, shot strongly into the top corner four minutes from time. Algeria were grateful for the victory, especially with many friends and family watching on in De Kuip where the winger plays his club football.

“It’s deserved after a very good second half,” Algeria coach Djamel Belmadi told Dutch broadcasters after the game. “It’s frustrating. It ruined their farewell game before they went off to New York.”

Hadj Moussa’s goal was his first for Algeria. Netherlands captain Virgil van Dijk was left frustrated after the game. “Of course, you don’t want this in a farewell game,” he said. “We should be further ahead than 1-0, at least two goals. We need to work at it and get sharp again. We’ve got another game in a few days, so we need to use it positively.”

Van Dijk added: “It’s great for most of the guys to have played some minutes, but we don’t play to lose games of course.”

Algeria goalkeeper Luca Zidane, who has been playing with a mask over the lower half of his face following injuries in April, made a number of smart stops throughout the game. It will ease concerns over his place in the team, which has been under scrutiny recently.

The Netherlands will face Uzbekistan in a friendly on Monday night in New York before flying out to Kansas City. They face Japan in their World Cup opener in Group F on June 14 in Dallas.

Algeria begin their World Cup campaign against World Cup champions Argentina in Group J on June 16 in Kansas City. They face Bolivia in their final warm-up game on Wednesday in Kansas City.

Defender Baba Rahman is optimistic about improving Ghana's performance
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Defender Baba Rahman is optimistic about improving Ghana’s performance

Ghana defender Baba Rahman believes performances from the Black Stars team will improve at next year’s World Cup Finals tournament.

It was not the perfect build-up to next year’s World Cup for the Ghana national team as they played Wales to a goalless draw. Ghana opened the scoring early on, but the Dragons managed to hit back with just three minutes left on the clock.

“I’m gutted we could not get the win last night, but this is a marathon, not a sprint. We will get there. This group will give everything for this precious shirt. God bless our homeland Ghana,” Baba Rahman posted after the game on social media.

The former Chelsea player played the second half after skipping out in 2023.

Ghana will become the lowest-ranked nation at the 2026 World Cup, beginning their Group L campaign against Panama on June 17 in Toronto, Canada, ranked 73rd in the world. England is ranked fourth, while their other group rivals, Croatia, are ranked 11th, and Panama are ranked 33rd.

Their second game against former champions England will take place in Foxboro, Massachusetts six days later with a final game against the 2018 runners- up to conclude Group L fixtures on June 27.