Category: Football Africa

Mama Sow's on Senegal skipper Sadio Mane's last AFCON
by Football Sierra Leone

Mama Sow on Senegal skipper Sadio Mane’s last AFCON

A former technical director of the Senegal national team has expressed a different viewpoint from those encouraging Sadio Mané to rethink his decision to retire from international football.

Sadio Mané’s retirement discussions are gaining attention after he led Senegal’s national team, the Teranga Lions, to win their second Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title, defeating Morocco 1-0.

Mama Sow, who was Senegal’s technical director from 2000 to 2006, has weighed in on Mané’s future with the national team.

Sow said, “I completely understand his decision. Sadio Mané has given everything to Senegal. Beyond football, he is a true patriot. If he says this is his last final, it means his body has spoken.” He believes Mané may be considering retirement due to the high demands of professional football.

Mané, a former Liverpool FC star, has announced his plans to retire from international football after the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June.

He hinted at his retirement before the tournament in Morocco and confirmed it after winning the title on Sunday. In an interview with beIN Sports, Mané stated, “I will try to play in the 2026 World Cup and then I will retire from international football.”

He also praised the Saudi Pro League, saying it is very competitive and one of the best leagues in the world. Mané was named the AFCON 2025 Man of the Competition, winning this award for the second time in his international career, after winning it in 2021.

Akor Adams nets brace as Sevilla draw with Elche
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Akor Adams nets a brace as Sevilla draw with Elche

Akor Adams helped Sevilla secure a draw against Elche by scoring two goals after returning from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with the Super Eagles.

Sevilla initially fell behind 2-0, with goals from Aleix Febas and Germán Valera. Coming off the bench, Akor scored in the 75th minute and converted a penalty in stoppage time to equalise.

In a statement to Mundo Deportivo, Akor expressed his gratitude for playing time and noted that while the team had chances to win, he was satisfied with the draw.

He emphasised the importance of teamwork and mentioned that he was happy to contribute after watching the team’s previous games while away.

The draw leaves Sevilla in 14th place in the La Liga table. Their next match is on Saturday against 10th-place Athletic Club at the Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán.

New CAF coaching requirements for National teams and Clubs football
by Football Sierra Leone

FIFA’s Infantino condemns as CAF reviews footage of Senegal players and officials

FIFA president Gianni Infantino condemned the behavior of Senegal players and coaching staff following the chaotic end of the Africa Cup of Nations final.

He emphasised that violence and walk-offs have no place in football and stressed the importance of respecting match officials’ decisions.

The final, in which Senegal won 1-0 against Morocco, was marred by a disputed penalty that led to player protests and halted play.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) announced it would review footage of the incident and pursue disciplinary actions against those responsible for the unacceptable behaviour.

Pape Gueye nets an extra time stunner as Senegal win AFCON title
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Pape Gueye nets an extra-time stunner as Senegal win AFCON title

Senegal won the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title for the second time after defeating hosts Morocco 1–0 in a thrilling final held in Rabat.

The clinching moment came just three minutes into extra time when Pape Gueye scored with a powerful left-footed shot from the edge of the penalty area, sending the Senegalese bench into celebration and disappointing the home crowd.

Morocco almost won the match during regular time when they were awarded a late penalty after a VAR review. However, Edward Mendy saved Brahim Diaz’s shot, forcing the game into extra time.

The match was evenly matched from the start. Morocco aimed for their first title in over 50 years, while Senegal sought to reclaim the championship it won in 2021. Senegal started strong, controlling the game and creating better chances in the first half.

Morocco’s goalkeeper, Yassine Bounou, made key saves, stopping Gueye’s header from a corner and then denying Iliman Ndiaye in a one-on-one situation. The best chance for Morocco came just before half-time when Nayef Aguerd just missed connecting with a cross from Abdessamad Ezzalzouli.

After the break, Morocco came out with renewed energy. Ayoub El Kaabi had a great opportunity but missed the target with a shot after receiving a perfectly placed pass from Bilal El Khannouss. Morocco continued to press for a goal, but they struggled to finish.

Senegal remained dangerous on the counterattack. In the 89th minute, substitute Ibrahim Mbaye nearly scored, but Bounou made another excellent save.

As the game went into extra time without a winner, Senegal quickly struck. Sadio Mané made a clever back-heel pass to Idrissa Gana Gueye, who then set up Pape Gueye for the goal. Gueye showed strength and composure, sending a powerful shot past Bounou.

Morocco pressed hard for an equaliser. Diaz tried to make up for his penalty miss with a close-range shot saved by Mendy. Youssef En-Nesyri also came close with a diving header that went just wide. Senegal almost increased their lead, but Bounou stopped another shot from Pape Cherif Ndiaye, and the rebound was missed.

In the end, Senegal defended strongly and celebrated a historic victory, securing their second AFCON title and confirming their status among Africa’s best teams.

Pape Gueye, named Man of the Match, said, “I am very happy to win the final. It was a complicated match. After Morocco missed the penalty, we stayed focused and played our game. Then we scored a goal that allowed us to win. Scoring in a final is a proud moment for me. I am really happy to score, and most importantly, Senegal now has a second star.

Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali hero as Nigeria pick Bronze in AFCON 2025
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali hero as Nigeria pick AFCON 2025 Bronze

Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali was instrumental for Nigeria in the Super Eagles' bronze medal win at the 2025 TAfrica Cup of Nations in Morocco, defeating Egypt 4–2 in a penalty shootout after a goalless draw.

Despite a previous loss to Morocco in the semifinals, Nwabali made two crucial saves against Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush during the shootout, helping turn the tide after Nigeria’s Fisayo Dele-Bashiru had his shot saved.

Goals from Akor Adams, Moses Simon, Alex Iwobi, and Ademola Lookman secured Nigeria’s victory.

While both teams struggled to find clear chances during regulation, Nwabali’s solid performance kept the match scoreless, leading to penalties. After the game, he praised his teammates for their unity and determination.

Egypt’s coach, Hossam Hassan, acknowledged the close contest but reflected on the importance of details in such matches. Nigeria’s coach, Eric Chelle, expressed pride in his players’ effort and character, emphasising the team’s hard work and commitment to building a stronger future.

Stanley Nwabali is the TotalEnergies Man of the Match.
Nigeria 0-0 Egypt (Nigeria wins 4-2 in penalties)
Mohammed V Stadium, Casablanca