Author: Alie Bittar @bittar32

Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania to host CHAN opener
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania to host CHAN opener

Tanzania is set to host the opening match of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), with the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam chosen as the venue for the tournament’s kickoff on 2 August 2025.

The tournament will run from 2 to 30 August 2025 and will feature national teams composed solely of players from their domestic leagues.

This edition marks the first time CHAN returns to East Africa since Rwanda hosted it in 2016. CAF also confirmed that Uganda’s Mandela Stadium in Kampala will be the site for the third-place match, while the final is set to take place at Kasarani Stadium in Nairobi, Kenya, on 30 August.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) made this announcement after consultations with the three East African co-hosts—Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda—who are collaboratively organizing the event for the first time.

This rotation of the tournament among the three countries is a key part of CAF’s strategy to foster regional cooperation and infrastructure development, while also giving fans across East Africa direct access to high-level continental competition.

With Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda all eager to make a strong impression as both hosts and participants, the 2024 CHAN is poised to offer not only top-tier football but also a showcase of East Africa’s organizational prowess on the continental stage.

Defender Osman Turay pens Bayer 04 Leverkusen from FC Schalke 04
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Defender Osman Turay pens Bayer 04 Leverkusen deal from FC Schalke 04

Bayer Leverkusen has made an exciting addition to their A-Junior team by signing 17-year-old left-back Osman Turay from FC Schalke 04. This talented young player is set to enhance the squad under the guidance of coach Sergi Runge.

The German U-17 international joins Leverkusen free of charge, making it a savvy move as the club aims to bolster its status in youth football.

Sporting director Simon Rolfes expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “Osman Turay’s ambitions match perfectly with our objectives. We are committed to elevating our standing in youth football and reinstating Bayer 04 as a premier destination in German football.”

Football director Kim Falkenberg also commended Turay’s remarkable abilities, saying, “Osman has emerged as one of the standout players in his age group. We’re excited that he has chosen to continue his promising path with Bayer 04 Leverkusen.”

Turay is already acquainted with some of his new teammates. As the vice-captain of the German U-17 national team, he has played alongside Leverkusen’s Jeremiah Mensah, Nebe Domnic, and Ben Hawighorst. The four were last on the field together during a starting lineup against Portugal, where they faced a narrow 1-2 defeat, leading to Germany’s early exit from the European Championship in Albania.

In May, Turay faced Leverkusen while representing Schalke in the quarter-finals of the German A-Junior Championship. In a thrilling match, Leverkusen clinched victory 3-2 in a penalty shootout, ultimately making their way to the finals, where they just fell short, losing 4-5 to 1. FC Köln.

Ivorian defender Willy Boly signs Nottingham Forest deal extension
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Ivorian defender Willy Boly signs Nottingham Forest deal extension

Nottingham Forest has announced a one-year extension for Ivorian defender Willy Boly, which will keep him at the club until the summer of 2026.

The Ivorian defender has made 45 appearances for the Reds since joining from Wolves in 2022, quickly becoming an essential part of Nuno Espírito Santo’s squad.

As a key member of the leadership group, Boly adds a wealth of experience to the team, having played in nine matches across all competitions last season.

He was part of the Ivory Coast squad that won the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) last year and has experience competing in European tournaments, having played for Porto in the Champions League and for SC Braga and Wolves in the Europa League.

With more fixtures anticipated due to European qualification, Boly’s presence on and off the pitch will be crucial in helping the team adapt to the demanding schedule.

Boly has signed a new contract with the club, expressing his happiness and eagerness to continue with the team and its supportive fans. He aims to build on last season’s success.

Chief Football Officer Ross Wilson praised Boly as a valuable and experienced Premier League player who has significantly contributed to the team’s achievements. Wilson highlighted Boly’s professionalism, leadership qualities, and ability to connect with teammates.

Liberian native Christian Saydee departs Portsmouth to join Wigan
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Liberian native Christian Saydee departs Portsmouth to join Wigan

Portsmouth has confirmed that Liberian decent Christian Saydee has left Pompey to join League One side Wigan for an undisclosed fee.

The 23-year-old forward, who joined from Bournemouth in summer 2023, scored seven goals in 73 appearances and helped the team win the third tier title, returning Championship football to Fratton Park after 12 years.

Manager John Mousinho said, “Christian was a valued member of our squad and will be missed by staff, players, and fans for his key contributions.”

“However, we believe he deserves the opportunity for more regular playing time, and we didn’t want to hold him back from that. We thank him for everything he achieved while wearing a Pompey shirt and wish him the very best in this next chapter of his career.”

Saydee rose through the Cherries academy before making his way to Fratton Park. He netted his first goal in a League Cup match against Peterborough, and his first league goal for Pompey was particularly significant, as it secured a crucial win over promotion contenders Oxford at Fratton Park.

In the last season, Saydee found the net three times: he scored twice in a draw against Middlesbrough and added another goal in the draw with Hull on the season’s final day.

Wydad Casablanca suffer opening Club World Cup defeat to City
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Wydad Casablanca suffer opening Club World Cup defeat to City

On Wednesday, one of Africa’s representatives, Wydad Athletic Club – WAC started their FIFA Club World Cup campaign with a 2-0 defeat to defending champions Manchester City in Philadelphia.

In a recent match, Phil Foden scored the opening goal for Manchester City in the second minute, followed by a second goal from Jeremy Doku in the 42nd minute.

Morocco’s Nordin Amrabat showcased his versatility, contributing effectively on both defense and offense. Wydad Casablanca had a significant opportunity to equalize in the 31st minute when Thembinkosi Lorch lost his balance in the penalty area.

Although Wydad Casablanca displayed some hesitancy in the first half, they maintained a resilient defense, with goalkeeper El Mehdi Benabid making crucial interventions.

Despite their challenges, the supporters passionately rallied behind the team with chants of “ole, ole, ole… Wydad, Wydad.”

Phil Foden expressed satisfaction with securing three points, while Wydad’s Meijers Bart acknowledged the positive start in the tournament and conveyed pride in being part of the team.