Category: Sport News

Morocco's U-20 coach Mohamed Ouahbi aims for a win against Egypt
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Morocco’s U-20 coach Mohamed Ouahbi aims for a win against Egypt

Morocco U-20 coach Mohamed Ouahbi says his team will show “respect, focus, and ambition” in the semi-finals of the TotalEnergies CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations against Egypt.

Morocco has already qualified for the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile and now aims for the continental title. Thursday’s match in Cairo is a key opportunity.

“We respect the Egyptian national team. They are strong and determined,” Ouahbi said at a pre-match press conference. “But we want to win this championship. We achieved our first goal by qualifying for the World Cup—now we want to finish the job.”

Egypt reached the semi-finals after defeating Ghana in a penalty shootout. Morocco advanced with a narrow 1-0 victory over Sierra Leone, thanks to an own goal.

Despite Egypt having home advantage, Ouahbi emphasizes that Morocco will focus on their own game. “We don’t worry about referees or the crowd. We focus on our game plan and seizing our chances,” he explained. This strategy has kept Morocco unbeaten in the tournament.

The match will be at Cairo’s June 30 Stadium at 18:00 GMT. 

Ouahbi feels that qualifying for the World Cup has relieved pressure on his players. “They were thrilled to make history, but they want more. We come to win,” he said.

This is Morocco’s first semi-final appearance since 2005, and a win would take them to their first final in nearly 40 years while chasing their first continental title.

The semi-final will be intense, as both teams are known for their discipline and skill. The winner will face Nigeria or South Africa in the final on Sunday.

For Ouahbi, the goal is clear: “This group has given everything. Now we want to give our country something to celebrate.”

Egypt's U20 coach Osama Nabih calls for fighting spirit against Morocco
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Egypt’s U20 coach Osama Nabih calls for fighting spirit against Morocco

Egypt’s coach Osama Nabih declared that his team will fight “with strength and courage” as they prepare to face Morocco in Thursday’s semi-final of the TotalEnergies CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations Egypt 2025.

The match at Cairo’s June 30 Stadium promises to be exciting, featuring North African rivals driven by national pride. Kick-off is at 18:00 GMT on Thursday.

Following a thrilling quarter-final win over Ghana that secured Egypt’s place in the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile, the young Pharaohs are focused on achieving continental success at home.

Nabih described the match as “like an Arab final,” acknowledging Morocco as a strong opponent that has been impressive at all levels.

Egypt reached the semi-finals after a dramatic 2-2 draw with Ghana, winning 5-4 in penalties, which also marked their return to the World Cup for the first time since 2011.

“The pressure to qualify was heavy,” Nabih admitted, noting that the players have gained mental stability since their success.

He also reflected on the tournament’s competitiveness, highlighting that all four semi-final teams were initially in the same group.

Egypt will face a Moroccan side that narrowly beat Sierra Leone 1-0 in their quarter-final.

Morocco remains unbeaten and boasts a strong defense, having kept three clean sheets in four matches.

Midfielder Ahmed Khaled “Kabaka” believes the team’s resolve is stronger than ever.

“We’ve vowed to fight until the end,” he stated, emphasizing that the World Cup qualification has boosted their morale.

Following a thrilling quarter-final win over Ghana that secured Egypt's place in the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile, the young Pharaohs are focused on achieving continental success at home
Following a thrilling quarter-final win over Ghana that secured Egypt's place in the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile, the young Pharaohs are focused on achieving continental success at home
CAF holds Women's Media Officers Workshop in Rabat, Morocco
by Football Sierra Leone

CAF holds Women’s Media Officers Workshop in Rabat, Morocco

The first CAF Women’s Media Officers Workshop has started in Rabat, Morocco, with twenty participants, mostly women from various African regions. (By Marie Esther Samura, Participant )

The workshop, themed “Her Path: Born Winner,” aims to help media officers improve their skills in media operations and communication strategies, supporting CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe’s goal of increasing women’s representation in African football.

The first day, May 13th, featured an introduction to the CAF Future Media Officers Program by Mr. Luxolo September, who highlighted advancements in CAF’s media operations since 2021 and emphasized the importance of rebuilding trust and empowering women in the field.

CAF Media Manager Charlotte Eyoum discussed the CAF Women’s Football Events and Opportunities Program, noting successful training sessions that have increased visibility for women media officers and connected them with experienced professionals.

Media Consultant Christophe Kukawka covered media facility planning in stadiums and the importance of staffing and training. He also introduced the New Media Mixed Zone concept and provided an overview of press operations.

Sheriff Hassan, CAF’s Head of Digital and Marketing, spoke about the federation’s digital platform, highlighting improvements in the production and global distribution of football content.

The day concluded with a panel discussion featuring women journalists and football administrators, focusing on the challenges women face in a male-dominated industry.

Sierra Leone's Mustapha Bundu wins 2024/25 Argyle Goal of the Season
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Sierra Leone’s Mustapha Bundu wins 2024/25 Argyle Goal of the Season

In a breath-taking display of skill, Mustapha Bundu’s mesmerizing free-kick against Derby County at Home Park has been crowned the 2024/25 Argyle Goal of the Season.

The talented forward triumphed in a heated ten-way poll, outshining Andre Gray’s sensational double against Watford, which secured a tie for second and third place among the voters.

With the Greens trailing 2-0 in the first half, Ryan Hardie earned a free-kick from a challenging position, about 20 yards out and at a tight angle.

Instead of opting for a routine cross, Bundu unleashed a magnificent shot, curling the ball with precision and flair into the far corner of the net. This stunning strike ignited the crowd and breathed new life into Argyle’s hopes for the match.

RESULTS:  

1. MUSTAPHA BUNDU v Derby County – 32% 

2. ANDRE GRAY (1) v Watford – 15%

3. ANDRE GRAY (2) v Watford – 12%

Sierra Leone native Bangura-Williams pens long-term deal with Millwall
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Sierra Leone native Bangura-Williams pens long-term deal with Millwall

Sierra Leone native Raees Bangura-Williams has signed a new long-term contract with The Den. The 20-year-old will continue with The Lions following his impressive start.

Bangura-Williams made his debut in January during the Emirates FA Cup Third Round, scoring just 10 minutes after coming on against Dagenham & Redbridge.

His father is an amateur football manager originally from Sierra Leone, currently based in Park Langley.

“I’m grateful for all the support and have more to give. It’s an honour to be here,” he said, noting the season has been life-changing and that Millwall is the right place for him to develop.

In 13 appearances, he has impressed fans with several assists, including key plays against Cardiff City and Portsmouth. His performance earned him a call-up to England’s Elite League Squad.

Despite missing the end of the 2024/25 season due to injury, he is determined to earn a place in Alex Neil’s starting lineup for the 2025/26 season.

Millwall’s Director of Football, Steve Gallen, praised Ra’ees’ inspiring journey to the first team and expressed excitement about his contract signing as a reward for his hard work. Gallen noted that Ra’ees represents the club’s future and thanked James Berylson and Alex Neil for their support in finalizing the deal.