Category: Football Africa

Plymouth Argyle sign Ghanaian Michael Baidoo from Elfsborg
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Plymouth Argyle sign Ghanaian Michael Baidoo from Elfsborg

English Championship side Plymouth Argyle has officially announced the signing of Ghanaian midfielder Michael Baidoo permanently.

“Baidoo has signed a three-year contract that will extend through the summer of 2028. The 25-year-old joins Argyle from IF Elfsborg, where he has been a key contributor since 2022,” Argyle noted

Michael will wear the number 30 and, subject to EFL approval and International clearance, will first be available for selection for our trip to Brentford on 11 January.

Before his tenure in Sweden, Baidoo played for Sandnes Ulf in Norway and FC Midtjylland in Denmark, with loan spells at Jerv and Fredericia.

Jimmy Dickinson, Argyle’s head of Recruitment, expressed enthusiasm about signing a player he has been monitoring for over a year. He stated, “Michael is someone we have been aware of for a long time, and I am delighted that we have finally been able to bring him to Argyle.

“He comes to the club with an impressive background, having excelled in Elfsborg’s Europa League campaign this season and recently making his international debut for Ghana.

“His ability to play in multiple positions will enhance the squad’s versatility. Most notably, he chose to join Argyle over other prominent clubs across Europe.

“He is eager to play in England and demonstrate his capabilities, and we believe he will significantly contribute to English football.

“I extend my gratitude to Simon and the board for their support in facilitating this record deal and look forward to seeing him on the pitch soon.”

Baidoo primarily occupies a midfield role but is also adept at playing as a striker. He has made notable contributions at Elfsborg, scoring five goals and providing three assists in the Europa League.

In the Allsvenskan, he has tallied 10 goals and four assists this season. His performance includes a standout goal in Elfsborg’s 1-0 victory against AS Roma in October, culminating in a total of 76 appearances for the club over two seasons.

Belouizdad's Noufel Khacef goal ends Al Ahly unbeaten record
by FSL News

Belouizdad’s Noufel Khacef goal ends Al Ahly’s unbeaten record

Algerian club Belouizdad achieved a notable 1-0 victory over Egyptian powerhouse Al Ahly in a highly competitive CAF Champions League match held at the 5 July Stadium in Algiers on Friday night.

The decisive goal came from Noufel Khacef in the first minute of stoppage time, marking the end of Al Ahly’s impressive 27-match unbeaten streak in the competition.

This victory represents Belouizdad’s first win against the Egyptian champions in their six encounters, significantly enhancing their prospects in the group stage.

The match commenced with both teams demonstrating caution as they sought to establish control over the midfield. Al Ahly had an early opportunity when Yahya Attiat Allah’s free-kick narrowly missed its target.

Belouizdad believed they had taken the lead in the 14th minute, with Khanyisa Mayo finding the net, only for the goal to be disallowed for offside.

In the second half, the hosts elevated their level of play, creating multiple scoring opportunities that tested Al Ahly’s defensive resolve. The introduction of substitute Islam Slimani infused new energy into Belouizdad’s performance, culminating in a well-deserved goal in the waning moments of the match.

Khacef capitalized on a rebound following an initial save by Mohamed El-Shennawy, eliciting an enthusiastic response from the home crowd.

Despite a late effort by Al Ahly, which included the introduction of Percy Tau and Mahmoud ‘Kahraba’, they were unable to secure an equalizer.

Following this defeat, Al Ahly remains at the top of Group C with seven points, while Belouizdad ascends to second place with six points, surpassing Orlando Pirates, who have a game in hand.

This outcome not only concludes Al Ahly’s unbeaten streak but also sets the stage for an exciting conclusion to the group stage, with all teams still vying for qualification.

Egypt's Mohamed Salah cast doubt on his Liverpool future
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Egypt’s Mohamed Salah cast doubt on his Liverpool’s future

Mohamed Salah, the Egyptian international and Liverpool forward, has raised doubts about his future in an interview with Sky Sports.

Although he is determined to win the Premier League title, Liverpool and their forward are still far from agreeing on terms for a new deal at Anfield.

Salah stated, “I really want to win the Premier League with Liverpool. It’s my last year at the club, so I want to do something special for the city.”

Salah is in great form. Liverpool is currently six points ahead at the top of the Premier League with a game in hand. They will face Manchester United in a Super Sunday match, live on Sky Sports at 4:30 PM.

At 32 years old, Salah leads the Premier League this season with 17 goals and 13 assists. However, his future is uncertain as he enters the final six months of his contract.

Ivorian Amad Diallo wins Manchester United double
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Ivorian Amad Diallo wins Manchester United double

Ivorian striker Amad Diallo has won Manchester United’s Goal of the Month and Player of the Month awards for December.

Amad has been recognized as Manchester United’s Player and Goal of the Month for December 2024, marking a significant breakthrough year for him at Old Trafford.

Although the end of the calendar year was challenging for Ruben Amorim’s team, the Ivorian’s contributions throughout the month stood out positively and were acknowledged by the supporters.

The United number 16 received an impressive 78 per cent of the votes from fans in the Player of the Month poll on ManUtd.com and the United app.

The player delivered an outstanding performance, earning the Man of the Match award in the 4-0 victory over Everton with two assists and exceptional effort as a wing-back. He maintained this form into December, assisting Bruno Fernandes’s goal against Nottingham Forest.

In an attacking midfield role against Viktoria Plzen, he was vital in our comeback victory. Just three days later, he scored the winning goal in stoppage time during a remarkable turnaround against Manchester City.

Belouizdad coach Abdelkader Amrani wants better performance against Al Ahly
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Belouizdad coach Abdelkader Amrani wants better performance against Al Ahly

Belouizdad coach Abdelkader Amrani knows that strong defence and focus are crucial as his team prepares for an important match against Al Ahly in the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League.

With their fans supporting them at the July 5 Stadium, Belouizdad aims to overcome the challenge from the group leaders and revive their hopes in the CAF Champions League.

The Algerian side set for a must-win situation this Friday. They need to win to keep their hopes of qualifying alive after a tough 6-1 loss in Cairo. The team is determined to change their luck at the July 5 Stadium in Algiers.

At the press conference on Thursday, Amrani said it is vital to prevent goals against them. He emphasized that winning is the only option to stay in the race for qualification.

“We must play well and focus on keeping a clean sheet,” Amrani said. “Our fate is in our hands, and we must win this match.”

Looking back at the last loss, he admitted that poor focus hurt the team. He encouraged his players to rise to the challenge. “The last performance was disappointing, but these things happen in football. We must believe in ourselves and be ready to show a stronger side.”

Amrani also talked about recent issues with veteran striker Islam Slimani, stating that the problem is now resolved. “As a coach, I make decisions for the team, and not everyone will agree. I spoke with Slimani, and we are back on the same page. His experience is valuable for the team.”

Striker Aymen Mahyous echoed the message of unity and determination, highlighting how important Friday’s match is for their future. “We want to improve our reputation by beating Al Ahly and getting three points,” Mahyous stated. “This game is vital for our chances of qualifying.”

Congo defender Christ Makosso signs for Luton Town
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Congo defender Christ Makosso signs for Luton Town

Luton Town has Congo centre-back Christ Makosso as their new signing from Belgian club RWD Molenbeek for an undisclosed fee – but the length of his contract with Luton has not been disclosed.

The 20-year-old, who has already won three caps for his native Congo, arrives at Kenilworth Road for an undisclosed fee from Belgian second-division outfit RWD Molenbeek.

Makosso started his European career with the French club Sochaux before moving to Molenbeek in January.

“Christ is a young and athletic defender who has impressed us, and we believe he has a bright future,” said Luton manager Rob Edwards. “We will need to be patient as he develops, but he is an exciting addition to our team.”

At the end of 2024, Luton finished 19th in the Championship, just four points above the relegation zone.

“I’m really excited to join Luton. I’ve heard many positive stories about the club and its amazing fans,” Makosso said.

Morocco's Hakim Ziyech regrets joining Turkish side Galatasaray
by FSL News

Morocco’s Hakim Ziyech regrets joining Turkish side Galatasaray

Moroccan International Hakim Ziyech has expressed his frustration over joining the Turkish side Galatasaray. Head coach Okan Buruk has confirmed that the former Chelsea winger will leave the club in the next transfer window.

On 28 June 2024, Ziyech, who signed for Galatasaray permanently, has voiced his frustration with Buruk and the club.

This season has been difficult for Ziyech, who has only started three games. He has expressed a desire to leave

“Galatasaray is over for me. I don’t want to play here anymore. I’m leaving in January,” Ziyech said. “I’ve never worked with a coach of such a low level. I don’t care if joining Galatasaray was a mistake. I want to be left alone, no matter what happens. I regret coming here.”

Buruk responded, “I talked with Ziyech. He told us he is unhappy with his playing time and will talk to other teams when the transfer window opens. He is not happy because he isn’t playing, and he is likely to leave the club.”

Clubs in Ligue 1, like Rennes, and several Premier League teams are interested in Ziyech. However, his salary demands might make it harder to negotiate a transfer as the January window approaches.

A source close to the club has indicated that Galatasaray will not request a transfer fee for Hakim Ziyech, who has started looking for a team through his agent.

Mustapa Bundu left out of Argyle's matchday squad due to hamstring
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Injury forced Mustapha Bundu out of Argyle’s matchday squad

Sierra Leone international Mustapha Bundu will not be part of Plymouth Argyle’s matchday squad for their upcoming English Championship game against Oxford United on Sunday. (Photo Mustapha Bundu at the Building Society Arena on Thursday, December 26, 2024 – Photo: Jake Manuell/PPAUK)

On Thursday, Bundu left the pitch with a suspected hamstring injury during Plymouth Argyle’s significant 4-0 defeat against Coventry City.

Plymouth Argyle has informed the press that they are currently assessing the severity of the hamstring injury he sustained during a Boxing Day loss to Coventry City.

Bundu, who contributed a goal and an assist in Argyle’s 3-3 draw with Middlesbrough at Home Park last Saturday, has now joined the growing list of injured players.

Senegal, Nigeria & Guinea qualify for next year's CHAN
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Senegal, Nigeria & Guinea qualify for next year’s CHAN

Ghana’s Black Galaxies suffered a 3-1 defeat to Nigeria. They will miss the 2024 Championship of African Nations (CHAN) tournament as defending champions Senegal, Guinea, Central African Republic and DR Congo have all secured their spots.

After the first leg ended in a draw in Ghana, both teams fought hard for a chance to compete in CHAN. The Central African Republic earned their spot by beating Cameroon.

In other matches, Burkina Faso eliminated Côte d’Ivoire after returning from a two-goal deficit in the first leg. Goals from Aboubacar Traoré and Franck Kanté tied the aggregate score and sent the match to penalties. The Stallions maintained their composure, successfully converting four penalties to the Elephants’ two, thus securing their place at CHAN 2024.

Defending champions Senegal secured their spot by defeating Liberia 4-1 on aggregate. After a 1-1 draw in Monrovia, Senegal won the second match 3-0, with goals from Oumar Ba, Baye Ciss, and Madione Mbaye.

In a regional derby, Guinea knocked out Guinea-Bissau with a 6-2 aggregate score following another 2-1 victory victory away. Mohamed Saliou Bangoura and Naby Bangoura scored, ensuring Guinea’s place under coach Souleymane Camara Abedy.

The Democratic Republic of Congo also advanced by beating Chad 3-1 in Kinshasa, maintaining their home advantage.

Oscar Kabwit scored first for the Leopards, and Jonathan Mokonzi and Nyembo Ntumba added goals in the second half after Chad equalized through Ahmat Abdulrahman.

Meanwhile, Cameroon’s chances of competing in CHAN ended after a 2-1 loss to the Central African Republic in the second leg.

The tournament will occur from February 1 to 28, 2025, with Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania as co-hosts. It will showcase local talent from domestic leagues.

  • Qualified Countries thus far: Angola, Burkina Faso, Central African Republic, Guinea, Niger, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, Sudan, Zambia.

Central African Republic eliminate Cameroon to pick CHAN ticket
by Football Sierra Leone

Central African Republic eliminate Cameroon to pick CHAN ticket

Cameroon’s hopes of competing in the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) were dashed after a 2-1 defeat to the Central African Republic in the return leg of their second preliminary-round clash.

Despite a first-leg advantage, Cameroon was eliminated on away goals at the Kouekong Omnisports Stadium in Bafoussam.

The Indomitable Lions B took an early lead with a goal from 17-year-old Angel Yondjo in the 31st minute. Barry Nelson converted a penalty just before half-time to level the score.

In the 87th minute, the Central African Republic scored the decisive goal through Bertillon Arnold, securing their historic progression to the CHAN final phase for the first time.

This achievement sees the Bamara Locals join other qualified teams, including Morocco, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Sudan, and Niger.

Meanwhile, Cameroon faces disappointment, having aimed for their sixth CHAN appearance but falling short in front of home fans.

The Central African Republic’s success highlights the increasing competitiveness of African football, prompting a shift in focus for Cameroon towards future competitions.