Category: Football Africa

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.

Defender Trevoh Chalobah returns to parent club Chelsea
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Defender Trevoh Chalobah returns to parent club Chelsea

Premier League side Crystal Palace has confirmed that Chelsea has recalled Sierra Leone-born Trevoh Chalobah from his loan.

Chalobah joined Palace on loan in August and played 14 matches for the club, scoring three goals. His last goal was the opener in our 3-1 win over Brighton & Hove Albion last month.

“We thank Trevoh for his hard work and wish him all the best for the future,” Palace noted. The club announced his departure on their official website, and Chalobah thanked Palace on social media.

The 25-year-old will strengthen Chelsea’s squad after injuries to Wesley Fofana and Benoit Badiashile reduced head coach Enzo Maresca’s defence options.

During his time at Palace, Chalobah made 14 appearances in all competitions and scored thrice.

Chalobah has been with Chelsea since he was eight. He made his senior debut in August 2021 and has played 80 times for the club, scoring five goals. He also had loan spells at Ipswich Town, Huddersfield Town, and Lorient in France.

Chalobah might play for Chelsea in their next match against Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Premier League on Monday.

https://twitter.com/TrevohChalobah/status/1879601001830969405

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.

The 2025 FIFA U-17 World Cup qualifiers for Morocco start on Saturday, January 11 as the young women from Sierra Leone will try to move to the next stage. Coach Fatmata Turay's team will play against the Central African Republic in the first round of the U-17 Women’s World Cup qualifiers. The match will take place at Southern Arena in Bo City. This double-header against the Central African Republic is an important first step for both teams on their way to the World Cup. The team that wins will go to the second round and face the winner of the match between Guinea and Togo. Head Coach Fatmata Turay has shared her squad for the double-header against the Central African Republic. The 2025 African U-17 Women’s World Cup qualification is the 10th edition of this tournament. Players born on or after January 1, 2008, can join in. The four winners from the third round will qualify for the 2025 FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup.
by Football Sierra Leone

Sierra Leone U-17 Women’s gear up for Central African Republic

The Sierra Leone U17 girls will begin their 2025 FIFA U-17 World Cup qualifiers for Morocco on Saturday, January 11, facing the Central African Republic.

Coach Fatmata Turay’s team is set to face the Central African Republic in the first round of the U-17 Women’s World Cup qualifiers. The match will be held at Southern Arena in Bo City. The second leg will take place at the Multi-Purpose Japoma Stadium in Cameroon next Saturday.

This double-header against the Central African Republic is an important first step for both teams on their way to the World Cup. The team that wins will go to the second round and face the winner of the match between Guinea and Togo.

Head Coach Fatmata Turay has shared her squad for the double-header against the Central African Republic.

The 2025 African U-17 Women’s World Cup qualification is the 10th edition of this tournament. Players born on or after January 1, 2008, can join in.

The four winners from the third round will qualify for the 2025 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.

Sierra Leone U17 Women's Squad confirmation
Sierra Leone U17 Women's Squad confirmation
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
CAF Champions League, Al Hilal through to the knockout stage
by Football Sierra Leone

CAF Champions League, Al Hilal through to the knockout stage

Al Hilal of Sudan became the first team to advance to the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League knockout stage. Here are some round-up of weekend group matches.

  • Group A

Al-Hilal Omdurman became the first team to reach the knockout stage. They earned this by drawing 1-1 with MC Alger. Young Africans boosted their chances for the quarter-finals with a 3-1 comeback win over TP Mazembe in Dar es Salaam.

Although Mazembe initially took the lead with a penalty from Alioune Faty, Clement Mzize scored two goals, and Aziz Ki added another in the second half. This win was crucial for the Tanzanian champions.

Al-Hilal now has 10 points, five points ahead of second-placed MC Alger. They are guaranteed a spot in the quarter-finals for the first time since 2015.

  • Group B  

FAR Rabat secured first place in Group B with a 2-0 victory over Maniema Union. Khalid Aït Ouarkhane and El Amine Zouhzouh scored the goals. In Casablanca, Raja won 1-0 against Mamelodi Sundowns in a match that had three red cards. Benaissa Benamar scored the winning goal for Raja. FAR Rabat leads the group with eight points, followed by Sundowns with five, Raja with four, and Maniema Union with three.

  • Group C

Orlando Pirates took the top spot in Group C with a strong 3-0 win against Stade d’Abidjan. Relebohile Mofokeng, Patrick Maswanganyi, and Deon Hotto scored the goals. CR Belouizdad ended Al Ahly’s unbeaten run with a late 1-0 victory in Algiers. This win moved them to second place with six points, just two points behind the Pirates.

  • Group D

In Photo, Pyramids won 2-1 against Esperance in Cairo, tying them at the top of the group. Meanwhile, Sagrada Esperança beat Djoliba 1-0, keeping their chances for the knockout stage alive. Both Pyramids and Esperance have seven points, while Sagrada is close behind with five points.

Clinical Orlando Pirates ease past Stade d’Abidjan to top Group C
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Clinical Orlando Pirates ease past Stade d’Abidjan to top Group C

Orlando Pirates defeated Stade d’Abidjan 3-0 at Orlando Stadium, moving to the top of Group C in the CAF Champions League at Orlando Stadium on Saturday.

The first goal came in the 22nd minute when Mohau Nkota set up Relebohile Mofokeng for an easy score. Just five minutes into the second half, Maswanganyi doubled the lead.

Deon Hotto added a third goal in the final minutes. Despite some attempts from Stade d’Abidjan, the Pirates maintained control and secured a vital win, putting them one point ahead of Al Ahly and two points behind CR Belouizdad, with two games left.

Elsewhere, Raja Casablanca won 1-0 against Mamelodi Sundowns in a tough match that saw three players receive red cards. This victory keeps Raja’s hopes alive for qualifying in Group B of the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League.

The match took place at Stade Larbi Zaouli. Benaissa Benamar scored the only goal in the 45th minute after a corner kick from Youssef Belammari.

Even after losing Marouane Zila to a second yellow card in the 80th minute, Raja’s defence remained strong despite being down to 10 players.

Mohamed Sankoh returns to join Stuttgart's U21 side in Spain
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Mohamed Sankoh returns to join Stuttgart’s U21 side in Spain

Sierra Leone native Mohamed Sankoh has returned to parent club VfB Stuttgart and will join the German side U21 training camp in Spain. The striker joined the Italian Serie B side in Cosenza Calcio in August 2024, where he made nine appearances for the rossoblù.

Before Cosenzo’s move, Sankoh spent the last two seasons on loan in the Netherlands, first with Vitesse Arnhem and then with Heracles Almelo.

“The 21-year-old striker, who joined Serie B club Cosenza Calcio on loan at the end of August 2024, will travel to Spain with VfB’s U21 team for a training camp,” the German side confirmed.

Sports director Christian Gentner: “It is important for young players like ‘Mo’ to play regularly, so the early return is the right decision. ‘Mo’ will travel to the training camp with our U21 team to prepare for the second half of the season in the 3rd division.”

In his previous season, Sankoh scored six goals in 28 appearances for Heracles. He played 81 minutes in VfB U21’s opening third-division match against F.C. Hansa Rostock, which ended in a 1-1 draw.