Category: Football Africa

Ex-Sierra Leone coach Jonathan McKinstry appointed as new Gambia boss
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Coach Jonathan McKinstry appointed as new Gambia boss

The Gambia Football Federation has confirmed the appointment of Jonathan McKinstry as their new head coach of the national team. 

The UEFA PRO License holder, who has previously led Gor Mahia to clinch the Kenyan Premier League title, is set to take over from Tom Saintfiet after Gambia’s exit from the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations tournament. 

Jonathan, aged 38, has previously coached Sierra Leone, Uganda, and Rwanda. He is currently the manager of Gor Mahia FC in Kenya and will assume the role with the Scorpions from June 1, 2024.

In the August 2014 FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking, the Leone Stars ranked 50th in the world and also broken into the top 10 teams on the continent. They were in seventh place under the management of the Irish coach.

The Northern Irish coach has signed a two-year contract and has been tasked with qualifying The Gambia for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

Jonathan previously coached the Uganda national team, Saif SC in Bangladesh, and the Lithuanian club Kauno Zalgiris, with early career roles in youth development at Newcastle United, New York Red Bulls, the Right to Dream Academy, and the Craig Bellamy Foundation.

Zamalek upset Berkane to capture the CAF Confederation Cup crown
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Zamalek upset Berkane to capture the CAF Confederation Cup

Zamalek clinched the African club football’s secondary competition with a thrilling 1-0 victory over RS Berkane in the second leg of the TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup final, securing the trophy on aggregate on Sunday.

The Egyptian giants entered the second leg at the Cairo International Stadium behind 2-1 from the first leg in Morocco a week ago.

The Zamalek team, backed by their passionate home crowd, made a remarkable comeback to win the continent’s title for the second time. Striker Ahmed Hamdi scored the winning goal in the 23rd minute, levelling the aggregate score. 

However, Hamdi had to leave the game due to an injury just before halftime. The second half saw Zamalek defending fiercely against Berkane’s attacks. 

Senegalese midfielder Ibrahima Ndiaye played a crucial role in Zamalek’s strong defence. Berkane’s frustration resulted in a red card for one of their players, leaving them with 10 men. Despite the pressure, Zamalek’s defence remained solid, securing a 2-1 aggregate victory.

This win represents a remarkable comeback for the Cairo-based club, which previously claimed the title in the 2018/19 season. On the other hand, Berkane came very close to winning the CAF Confederation Cup for the third time in four years but fell short in the end.

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Al Ahly, Espérance set for an intriguing second-leg
by FSL News

Al Ahly, Espérance set for an intriguing second-leg

Both prominent North African clubs are eager for a victory as they face off in the thrilling second leg of the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League final in Cairo on Saturday, May 25, 2024.

Following a goalless first leg, an intense match is anticipated as Al Ahly, the host, seeks to maintain their dominance in continental football.

The first leg took place in Rades, with Espérance aiming to secure an advantage before the challenging return leg in Cairo the following Saturday.

Despite having more possession, the hosts struggled to create clear chances against the resilient defence of the reigning champions. Rodrigues Silver nearly scored early on, with a header that narrowly missed the target.

Al Shahat also came close to scoring for Al Ahly with a long-range shot just before halftime. However, the first half ended with few chances for both teams.

In the second half, Espérance continued to press for a goal. Al Ahly’s Afsha injected energy into the attack. Emam Abdelghany almost caught the goalkeeper off guard with a long-range strike.  As the match concluded, Al Ahly maintained possession to secure the draw. 

TotalEnergies CAF Champions League Final

Saturday, 18 May 2024 | Tunis 

Espérance Sportive de Tunis 0-0 Al Ahly SC

Saturday, 25 May 2024 | Cairo 

17h00 GMT | Al Ahly SC vs Espérance Sportive de Tunis

Sierra Leone U20 to kickoff tourney against Mauritania
by FSL News

Sierra Leone U20 to kickoff tourney against Mauritania

The Sierra Leone national female U20 team, known as the Shooting Starlets, is set to kick off the 2024 WAFU Tournament in Thiès, Senegal, against Mauritania on Tuesday.

Mali and Guinea-Bissau will kick off the tournament, followed by Senegal hosting Gambia at Stade Lat Dior on Monday.

The Shooting Starlets, drawn in Group B against Mauritania, Guinea, and Liberia, aim to showcase their talent and gain valuable international experience.

The team, which consists of 20 players and eight technical staff, is ready to compete in the tournament scheduled from Monday, May 20th to Tuesday, May 30th, 2024. They have arrived in Senegal with high expectations.

The tournament promises to be competitive, with teams from across West Africa (Zone A) vying for the championship. As the Shooting Starlets embark on this significant journey, they carry the hopes and support of the nation.

Their involvement represents a significant milestone in the advancement and acknowledgement of women’s soccer in Sierra Leone, under the guidance of FA President Thomas Daddy Brima and his Executives.

Senegal U20 Girls Tournament 2024: May 20-30 in Thiès - Matches Schedule:
Senegal U20 Girls Tournament 2024: May 20-30 in Thiès - Matches Schedule:
Burkina Faso's Les Étalons to host Sierra Leone in Bamako, Mali
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Burkina Faso’s Les Étalons to host Sierra Leone in Mali

Group A’s second-placed team, Burkina Faso’s Les Étalons, secured their first win in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers by defeating Ethiopia’s Walias on November 21, 2023, in Morocco after their opening draw with Guinea-Bissau. 

They are scheduled to host Sierra Leone at the Mar du 26 stadium in Bamako, Mali next month.

This upcoming match will be the second meeting between the two West African nations – with Sierra Leone having previously defeated Burkina Faso at the 1996 Cup of Nations in the Free State Stadium, Bloemfontein.

The fourth match day of Africa’s 2026 qualifiers is crucial for Sierra Leone, as they must avoid defeat to improve their chances of qualification. 

A strong Leone Stars side, mainly consisting of foreign-based players, is expected to be announced in the next coming days.

In the current standings, Egypt leads Group A with six points, followed by Burkina Faso and Guinea-Bissau with four points each. Sierra Leone and Ethiopia are tied on one point each, while Djibouti has no points after losing their first two games.

Read Related News –Burkina Faso Wallop Ethiopia to go second behind Egypt 

FIFA World Cup African Zone Group A table after the first two matches.
FIFA World Cup African Zone Group A table after the first two matches.
Ex-Milan star Rodney Strasser feels 'honored' to be among the greats at the FIFA Congress.
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Rodney Strasser feels ‘honoured’ to be at FIFA Congress

Ex-AC Milan star Rodney Strasser expressed his honour at being the first Sierra Leonean football legend to represent his country at the 2024 FIFA Congress in Bangkok, Thailand. 

The 74th FIFA Congress is scheduled to take place in Bangkok on 17th May 2024, gathering delegates from 211 member associations at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center for a five-day international event.  

One of the main agenda items will be the confirmation of the host nation or nations of the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027™. This will mark Thailand’s first time hosting a FIFA Congress, making it a significant event for the country.  

Rodney expressed his gratitude for the opportunity after sharing a photo with football legends such as Brazilian Cafu, FIFA President Gianni Infantino, ex-Nigerian International Mikel Obi, and others.

He highlighted the importance of showcasing the work of the Rodney Strasser Foundation and advocating for professional football players and children in sports in Sierra Leone.  

He stated, “My journey is not just about me, but about the countless young athletes and communities who deserve support and recognition. At the FIFA Congress, I aim to share our foundation’s initiatives, promote the development of football in Sierra Leone, and network with global leaders in the sport. I aspire to inspire change, foster collaboration, and bring hope to those who need it most.”

Rodney expressed his gratitude for the opportunity after sharing a photo with football legends such as Brazilian Cafu, FIFA President Gianni Infantino, ex-Nigerian International Mikel Obi, and others.
Rodney expressed his gratitude for the opportunity after sharing a photo with football legends such as Brazilian Cafu, FIFA President Gianni Infantino, ex-Nigerian International Mikel Obi, and others.
Sierra Leone draw Guinea, Mauritania and Liberia in WAFU U20
by FSL News

Sierra Leone draw Guinea, Mauritania & Liberia in WAFU U20

The Sierra Leone U20 Women’s team has been grouped with tough opponents Mauritania, Liberia, and Guinea for this year’s tournament in Thiès, Senegal, from May 20 to 30. Photo Credit Kemokai Sportgraphy

The draw for the 2024 U20 Senegal Women’s Tournament was held on Wednesday, May 15, 2024, at the headquarters of the Senegalese Football Federation.

Eight out of nine teams will participate in this women’s soccer tournament. The participating teams are Senegal, Gambia, Guinea, Guinea Bissau, Liberia, Mali, Mauritania, and Sierra Leone. Cape Verde will not be participating.

Sierra Leone has started their preparations under the watchful eyes of head coach Fatmata Turay, who is optimistic about the team’s spirit. She has already expressed confidence in their ability to excel and highlighted the selection of 20 talented players from various clubs who will represent Sierra Leone in the competition.

The team is enthusiastic about impacting the regional stage and demonstrating the increasing talent in women’s football in Sierra Leone.

The SLFA fully supports the team’s endeavours and is confident in their ability to compete at the highest level.

The draw for the 2024 U20 Senegal Women's Tournament was held on Wednesday, May 15, 2024, at the headquarters of the Senegalese Football Federation.
The draw for the 2024 U20 Senegal Women's Tournament was held on Wednesday, May 15, 2024, at the headquarters of the Senegalese Football Federation.
Sierra Leone U-20 female preparing for the WAFU U-20 Tourney
by FSL News

Sierra Leone U20 start groundwork for WAFU Tourney in Senegal  

On Monday, the Sierra Leone Women’s National Team had their first training session at the SLFA Academy for the upcoming WAFU U-20 Women’s Tournament in Senegal.

The organisers have confirmed that the draw for the U20 Girls SENEGAL 2024 tournament will take place this Wednesday, May 15, 2024, at 11:00 at the headquarters of the FSF in Dakar. 

It will be broadcast live on all digital platforms in the area: Facebook and YouTube WAFU. Sierra Leone, Liberia, and Senegal will join five other WAFU nations in this tournament.

Head Coach Fatmata Turay is optimistic about the team’s performance in the tournament and expressed confidence in their ability to excel. She also highlighted the selection of 20 talented players from various clubs who will represent Sierra Leone in the competition.

The team is set to undergo rigorous training and preparations leading up to the tournament, scheduled from May 20th to 30th this year.

The squad is eager to make a mark on the regional stage and showcase the growing talent in Sierra Leonean women’s football. The SLFA fully supports the team’s efforts and is confident in their ability to compete at the highest level.

WAFU 2024 Women's U20 Dakar, Senegal
WAFU 2024 Women's U20 Dakar, Senegal
Sierra Leone, Liberia, and Senegal will join five other WAFU nations in this tournament.
Sierra Leone, Liberia, and Senegal will join five other WAFU nations in this tournament.
Chaabani & Gomes expressed their desire for better performance in Cairo
by FSL News

Chaabani, Gomes call for more fireworks in Cairo

Both coaches of the teams that played in the CAF Confederation Cup Final first leg at the Berkane Municipal Stadium on Sunday evening have urged their players to perform even better in the return leg set for Sunday, 19 May in Cairo.

Despite RS Berkane’s victory in the match, their coach, Mouin Chaabani in the Photo, warned his players against complacency in the return leg. He admitted that although they had a good first half, there was visible laxity in the second half, which they need to improve.

Chaabani also acknowledged that they must work on their strategy and rectify their mistakes to get positive results in the next game.

Zamalek coach José Gomes expressed his disappointment over the team’s loss and said that they need to be better prepared for the return leg in Cairo.

Although they did not play badly, they did not play as well as they had hoped. Gomes also mentioned that the team had prepared well for this game and they plan to do the same for the next one.

RS Berkane secured the victory – thanks to two first-half goals by captain Issoufou Dayo and Adil Tahif. Zamalek’s only goal came from Seifeddine Jaziri in the 46th-mnute second half.

TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup Final 

Sunday, 12 May 2024 (First Leg)

RS Berkane 2-1 Zamalek SC

Sunday, 19 May 2024 (Second Leg)

17h00 GMT | Zamalek SC vs RS Berkane

On Sunday, Renaissance Berkane defeated Zamalek 2-1 in the first leg of the African Confederation Cup final at the Berkane Municipal Stadium.
On Sunday, Renaissance Berkane defeated Zamalek 2-1 in the first leg of the African Confederation Cup final at the Berkane Municipal Stadium.
RS Berkane edged Zamalek 2-1 to set up a tricky tie in Cairo
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Berkane edged Zamalek 2-1 to set up a tricky tie in Cairo

On Sunday, Renaissance Berkane defeated Zamalek 2-1 in the first leg of the African Confederation Cup final at the Berkane Municipal Stadium.

A second-leg contest is scheduled for Sunday, May 19, at 7:00 PM GMT in Cairo.

Hosts scored twice, with a penalty by skipper Issoufou Dayo in the 13th minute and a header at the back post by Adil Tahif in the 32nd minute, doubling their lead.

After the halftime break, the Egyptian team came back with a more organized strategy and started recovering positions as they reduced the deficit. 

The Egyptians managed to score thanks to Seifeddine Jaziri’s quick thinking in the 46th minute. A momentary lapse of concentration just after the resumption of play resulted in Ahmed Sayed making his fifth assist of the competition. 

He found Seifeddine Jaziri, who scored with a powerful header that hit the bottom left corner of the net.

The return leg in Cairo next Sunday will see Berkane, winners in 2020 and 2022, aiming for a third triumph in the continent’s secondary club competition.

Lineups:

RS Berkane: Hamza Hamiani – Issoufou Dayou, Abdelhak Assal, Hamza El Moussaoui, Adil Tahif – Ayoub Khairi, Mohamed El Mourabit, Yassin Labhiri, Tuisila Kisinda – Youssef Mehri, Youssef Al Fahli, Paul Bassene

Zamalek: Mohamad Awaad – Ahmed Fattouh, Hossam Abdel-Meguid, Omar Gaber, Hamza Mathlouthi – Mohamed Shehata, Nabil Emad, Ahmed Hamdi –  Ahmed ‘Zizo’ Sayed, Samson Akinyoola, Seifeddine Jaziri.