Category: Sport News

Ismaila Sarr nets to help Crystal Palace reach FA Cup semi-finals
by Football Sierra Leone

Ismaila Sarr nets to help Crystal Palace reach FA Cup semi-finals

Crystal Palace shocked Fulham at Craven Cottage, winning their fifth consecutive match to reach the FA Cup semi-finals.

Fulham controlled the first 30 minutes but failed to capitalize, with Rodrigo Muniz coming closest to scoring. Eberechi Eze then gave Palace the lead with a stunning strike in the 34th minute, curling a low shot around Bernd Leno. Eze also assisted Ismaila Sarr’s goal before Eddie Nketiah added a third, finishing through Leno’s legs.

This victory marks Palace’s fifth win in a row and their first appearance in the semi-finals since 2022. Managed by Oliver Glasner, the team has transformed after a slow start to the season, now pushing for a spot in the top half of the league and advancing in both the FA Cup and Carabao Cup.

While Palace organized well in a 3-4-2-1 formation, Fulham struggled to create chances after Eze’s goal. Despite making substitutions, they couldn’t recover, leaving them three points away from a Champions League spot. This home loss will sting for Fulham, especially with a Wembley trip on the line.

Kenyan Patrick Matasi suspended following match-fixing investigation
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Kenyan Patrick Matasi suspended following match-fixing investigation

Kenya goalkeeper Patrick Matasi has been temporarily barred from football and related activities in the country for 90 days while an inquiry is conducted regarding match-fixing claims.

On Thursday evening, the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) reached this decision just hours after announcing that it had started an investigation involving the 37-year-old player.

The situation emerged after an online video surfaced, seemingly showing the goalkeeper consenting to a scheme to manipulate the results of a match.

In a statement sent by FKF on Thursday, the country’s top federation said the decision to suspend Matasi was made by Section VII (2) of the FKF Anti-Match Manipulation Regulations (2016), and has been formally communicated to his club, Kakamega Homeboyz FC and the player.

“The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) has provisionally suspended goalkeeper Patrick Matasi from all FKF-sanctioned events and competitions for 90 days, following concerns raised by circulating videos suggesting possible match manipulation,” FKF said in a Statement.

“FKF, in collaboration with FIFA, CAF, and other relevant authorities, has initiated an official investigation into the matter. The Federation remains committed to upholding integrity in football and ensuring a fair and transparent process for all involved parties. Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.”

Egypt is set to host U20 Cup of Nations in 2025, beginning on April 27th
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Egypt set to host U20 Africa Cup of Nations

The Confédération of African Football (CAF) has awarded the rights to host the TotalEnergies CAF Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations 2025 to the Egyptian Football Association (EFA) and the Egyptian Government.

This decision follows a notification from the Fédération Ivoirienne de Football (FIF) and the Government of Côte d’Ivoire, stating that they are unable to host the tournament due to unforeseen circumstances.

The Egyptian Football Association and the Egyptian Government had previously submitted a bid to host the TotalEnergies CAF Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations 2025.

The opening match is scheduled for Sunday, April 27, 2025, with the final set to take place on May 18, 2025.

Sierra Leone is placed in a group with Senegal, Zambia, and Kenya for the forthcoming youth football tournament. The leading four countries will qualify for the 2025 FIFA Under-20 World Cup, which is set to take place in Chile from September 27 to October 19, 2025.

Cayden Cole speaks about Sierra Leone U20 experience
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Cayden Cole speaks about Sierra Leone U20 experience

Hull City Academy defender Cayden Cole reported his experience with the Sierra Leone Under-20 after the friendly international match against Morocco in March.

Both nations used this match as part of their preparation for the upcoming African Cup Of Nations in Ivory Coast.

Cole, who plays for Hull City at the U18 level, expressed his satisfaction with playing 70 minutes of Sierra Leone U20’s 2-0 loss to Morocco in the Mohammed VI Sports Complex in Rabat last Saturday.

“I’ve loved every moment, getting to know the other players and the staff, and just playing overall. The team has come together nicely despite our diverse backgrounds, and I’m looking forward to seeing what the future holds for this U20 squad,” he said.

Cole, 16, a left-sided full-back and centre-back, continued: “I feel privileged to have received a call-up to represent my country and connect with my heritage, and I hope to be involved going forward.”

“I’ve enjoyed it because it offers a different perspective on football; European football significantly differs from African football due to the greater drive and determination among players aspiring to succeed here compared to their European counterparts.”

Regarding the trip, he mentioned, “This experience has given me insight into the reality of men’s football in terms of physicality, speed, and tenacity. I believe I’ve managed to keep pace with the older players, and I was chosen to be in the starting lineup against Morocco the other day.”

Trophy Unveiling! A fresh design for CAF Under-17 Cup of Nations
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Trophy Unveiling! A fresh design for CAF Under-17 Cup of Nations

A new trophy and logo for the CAF Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations, Morocco 2025, have been unveiled. The trophy reflects the journey of young footballers, with an African map featuring and presenting the spirit of continental unity and pride.

The tournament will be played in four stadiums across three cities- Casablanca, Mohammedia, and El Jadida- from March 30 to April 19, 2025.

The new logo and creative trophy reveal is an important step in celebrating the journey of young African footballers participating in this elite competition.

The concept behind the trophy, titled “Journey Begins,” embodies ambition, growth, and the initial steps toward these players’ legendary futures. It features a road-like structure that symbolizes the players’ paths and is integrated with the map of Africa to emphasize unity and pride across the continent.

The logo design reflects the new TotalEnergies CAF U-17 AFCON trophy, including its base. This foundation represents the structure, guidance, and support provided by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), highlighting its pivotal role in nurturing Africa’s next generation of stars.

This tournament is distinguished by its fresh look and invigorated energy. Additionally, the TotalEnergies CAF U-17 AFCON, Morocco 2025, will serve as a qualifier for the FIFA World Cup, with Africa being represented by 10 teams at the newly expanded tournament scheduled to take place in Qatar later this year.

Trophy Unveiling! A fresh design for CAF Under-17 Cup of Nations
Trophy Unveiling! A fresh design for CAF Under-17 Cup of Nations