2 months ago
Gabon captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has announced that he is stepping back from the national team, saying he felt "humiliated" by his exclusion and subsequent reinstatement after the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.
The top scorer in the history of the Panthers was singled out by the Gabonese government as responsible for the AFCON failure.
"They humiliated and smeared me even though I played at the AFCON while injured," the 37-year-old said in a television interview.
"This is the last straw, and I'd rather stop here."
Gabon were eliminated from the AFCON in the group stage after three defeats, the last of which came against Ivory Coast.
#gabon #humiliated #emerick
The top scorer in the history of the Panthers was singled out by the Gabonese government as responsible for the AFCON failure.
"They humiliated and smeared me even though I played at the AFCON while injured," the 37-year-old said in a television interview.
"This is the last straw, and I'd rather stop here."
Gabon were eliminated from the AFCON in the group stage after three defeats, the last of which came against Ivory Coast.
#gabon #humiliated #emerick
2 months ago
Gabon captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has announced that he is stepping back from the national team, saying he felt "humiliated" by his exclusion and subsequent reinstatement after the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
The top scorer in the history of the Panthers was singled out by the Gabonese government as responsible for the AFCON failure.
"They humiliated and smeared me even though I played at the AFCON while injured," the 37-year-old said in a television interview.
"This is the last straw, and I'd rather stop here."
Gabon were eliminated from the AFCON in the group stage after three defeats, the last of which came against Ivory Coast.
#afcon #humiliated #emerick #nations
The top scorer in the history of the Panthers was singled out by the Gabonese government as responsible for the AFCON failure.
"They humiliated and smeared me even though I played at the AFCON while injured," the 37-year-old said in a television interview.
"This is the last straw, and I'd rather stop here."
Gabon were eliminated from the AFCON in the group stage after three defeats, the last of which came against Ivory Coast.
#afcon #humiliated #emerick #nations
2 months ago
Juventus could return to the market for creative players during the final weeks of the transfer window, with Brahim Diaz back on their radar this summer.
The Moroccan has long been a target for the men at the Allianz Stadium, and the Real Madrid star could have the opportunity to change clubs before the window closes. Juventus consider him one of the best players they could sign and believe he could offer a solution to some of the problems within their current squad.
Real Madrid could be open to Diaz's departure because they have several players who can replace him within their squad. That could give Juventus encouragement as they look to strengthen their attacking options before the transfer window closes.
The men in black and white see Diaz as an ideal solution to some of their current issues and will do their best to add him to their squad in the coming weeks. His previous experience in Serie A also makes him an appealing option for the Bianconeri.
Calciomercato says Juventus have reignited their interest in the AFCON star, who has Serie A experience after spending part of his career playing for AC Milan.
#juventus #diaz #real #transfer
The Moroccan has long been a target for the men at the Allianz Stadium, and the Real Madrid star could have the opportunity to change clubs before the window closes. Juventus consider him one of the best players they could sign and believe he could offer a solution to some of the problems within their current squad.
Real Madrid could be open to Diaz's departure because they have several players who can replace him within their squad. That could give Juventus encouragement as they look to strengthen their attacking options before the transfer window closes.
The men in black and white see Diaz as an ideal solution to some of their current issues and will do their best to add him to their squad in the coming weeks. His previous experience in Serie A also makes him an appealing option for the Bianconeri.
Calciomercato says Juventus have reignited their interest in the AFCON star, who has Serie A experience after spending part of his career playing for AC Milan.
#juventus #diaz #real #transfer
2 months ago
Cameroon claimed a first Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) ****** le when they thumped surprise package Malawi 3-0 in the final, as Marie Ngah's first-half double helped seal victory on Sunday.
Cameroon had lost three finals but made it fourth-time lucky against a Malawi side making their debut at the continental championship. Ranked 153 in the world and 32nd on the African continent, Malawi had a fairytale run to the decider.
The two finalists had already sealed their place at the Women's World Cup in Brazil next year, along with fellow semifinalists Morocco and Algeria. The latter finished third after winning the bronze medal fixture on penalties on Saturday.
Under pressure FIFA chief Gianni Infantino was all smiles as he handed the Indomitable Lionesses their medals in the presence of Confederation of African Football President Patrice Motsepe, with several players requesting photographs with the Swiss.
Infantino has long enjoyed the support of many on the African continent as he bids for re-election next March despite revelations of his now-abandoned plans to sell a stake in future World Cups that drew worldwide condemnation.
#continent
Cameroon had lost three finals but made it fourth-time lucky against a Malawi side making their debut at the continental championship. Ranked 153 in the world and 32nd on the African continent, Malawi had a fairytale run to the decider.
The two finalists had already sealed their place at the Women's World Cup in Brazil next year, along with fellow semifinalists Morocco and Algeria. The latter finished third after winning the bronze medal fixture on penalties on Saturday.
Under pressure FIFA chief Gianni Infantino was all smiles as he handed the Indomitable Lionesses their medals in the presence of Confederation of African Football President Patrice Motsepe, with several players requesting photographs with the Swiss.
Infantino has long enjoyed the support of many on the African continent as he bids for re-election next March despite revelations of his now-abandoned plans to sell a stake in future World Cups that drew worldwide condemnation.
#continent
2 months ago
Cameroon have won their first Women's Africa Cup of Nations with an emphatic 3-0 victory over tournament debutants Malawi on Sunday evening at the Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat, Morocco.
A brace from Marie Ngah Manga and a goal from Naomi Eto, all scored in the first half, secured the Indomitable Lionesses of Cameroon's first continental trophy. They previously made the WAFCON final in 2004, 2014 and 2016, but lost all three to Nigeria.
Cameroon will receive $2 million in prize money from the Confederation of African Football, double the prize pot from 2025 WAFCON. Malawi will receive $750,000 as finalists.
Despite expectations of a dual Malawian threat of Chawinga sisters Temwa and Tabitha, the Scorchers were unable to match Cameroon's technical precision in the midfield nor their tenacity in front of goal.
Cameroon's unique and wholly unexpected journey to the WAFCON final began long before their first match. They did not initially qualify for the tournament but were admitted last November as the result of a spontaneous decision by CAF to expand the WAFCON format from 12 teams to 16 for the first time. Mali, Ivory Coast and Egypt were also admitted by way of expansion due to their high FIFA rankings.
#first #cameroon #final
A brace from Marie Ngah Manga and a goal from Naomi Eto, all scored in the first half, secured the Indomitable Lionesses of Cameroon's first continental trophy. They previously made the WAFCON final in 2004, 2014 and 2016, but lost all three to Nigeria.
Cameroon will receive $2 million in prize money from the Confederation of African Football, double the prize pot from 2025 WAFCON. Malawi will receive $750,000 as finalists.
Despite expectations of a dual Malawian threat of Chawinga sisters Temwa and Tabitha, the Scorchers were unable to match Cameroon's technical precision in the midfield nor their tenacity in front of goal.
Cameroon's unique and wholly unexpected journey to the WAFCON final began long before their first match. They did not initially qualify for the tournament but were admitted last November as the result of a spontaneous decision by CAF to expand the WAFCON format from 12 teams to 16 for the first time. Mali, Ivory Coast and Egypt were also admitted by way of expansion due to their high FIFA rankings.
#first #cameroon #final
2 months ago
Cameroon cruised to a 3-0 victory over tournament debutants Malawi to claim their first ever Women's Africa Cup of Nations (Wafcon) **** le.
Marie Ngah Manga's close-range header put the Indomitable Lionesses ahead in the 20th minute and Naomi Eto doubled the lead with a stunning volley on the half hour mark in the Moroccan capital Rabat.
The Central Africans made it 3-0 in the third minute of first-half added time as Eto rounded Malawi goalkeeper Mercy Sikelo and put the ball on a plate for striker Ngah Manga.
Malawi, the lowest-ranked side at Wafcon 2026 at 153rd in the world, reached the final on the back of the attacking prowess of the Chawinga sisters Tabitha and Temwa.
However, the two Scorchers stars were well marshalled by the Cameroon defence, who ensured that the Southern Africans were unable to secure a fairy tale ending to their unexpected run at the tournament.
#wafcon #first #minute
Marie Ngah Manga's close-range header put the Indomitable Lionesses ahead in the 20th minute and Naomi Eto doubled the lead with a stunning volley on the half hour mark in the Moroccan capital Rabat.
The Central Africans made it 3-0 in the third minute of first-half added time as Eto rounded Malawi goalkeeper Mercy Sikelo and put the ball on a plate for striker Ngah Manga.
Malawi, the lowest-ranked side at Wafcon 2026 at 153rd in the world, reached the final on the back of the attacking prowess of the Chawinga sisters Tabitha and Temwa.
However, the two Scorchers stars were well marshalled by the Cameroon defence, who ensured that the Southern Africans were unable to secure a fairy tale ending to their unexpected run at the tournament.
#wafcon #first #minute
3 months ago
Malawi is headed to the Women's World Cup for the first time ever, clinching the last of four spots guaranteed to African nations thanks to a 2-1 win over Ghana in the Women's African Cup of Nations (WAFCON) quarterfinals.
While Malawi and Algeria are set to debut in the competition after WAFCON wins, Nigeria's streak of making every WWC since the tournament began in 1991 is at risk of being snapped.
The Indomitable Lionesses fell 1-0 to Cameroon in their quarterfinal in Casablanca with Maéva Nyadjou scoring a first-half goal and Cameroon goalkeeper Michaely Bihina made nine saves to deny Nigeria a place in the WAFCON semifinals.
It is the first time in the competition's history Nigeria won't take one of the semifinal places, but the team is likely more concerned about a perilous situation to reach the 2027 Women's World Cup in Brazil.
Earlier in the weekend, Algeria beat the Ivory Coast to book its first place in the Women's World Cup and Morocco held off 2023 qualifiers South Africa.
#World #african #nations #time
While Malawi and Algeria are set to debut in the competition after WAFCON wins, Nigeria's streak of making every WWC since the tournament began in 1991 is at risk of being snapped.
The Indomitable Lionesses fell 1-0 to Cameroon in their quarterfinal in Casablanca with Maéva Nyadjou scoring a first-half goal and Cameroon goalkeeper Michaely Bihina made nine saves to deny Nigeria a place in the WAFCON semifinals.
It is the first time in the competition's history Nigeria won't take one of the semifinal places, but the team is likely more concerned about a perilous situation to reach the 2027 Women's World Cup in Brazil.
Earlier in the weekend, Algeria beat the Ivory Coast to book its first place in the Women's World Cup and Morocco held off 2023 qualifiers South Africa.
#World #african #nations #time
3 months ago
Algeria and Malawi have qualified for their first Women's World Cup, booking a place in Brazil next year by advancing to the semifinals of the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations this weekend. Morocco and Cameroon also secured qualification with their wins, the latter shocking ten-time WAFCON champions, Nigeria.
Morocco are heading back to the World Cup after making their debut in 2023, while Cameroon are set for their third World Cup appearance.
WAFCON hosts Morocco, who finished as runners-up in the prior two continental tournaments, will now take on Cameroon in the final four. The other semifinal will see a meeting between two first-time semifinalists, as Algeria face off against Malawi. Both semifinals will take place on Wednesday, Aug. 12, in Rabat.
With reigning champions Nigeria eliminated, there will be a new continental champion in Africa. None of the four semifinalists have ever lifted the trophy either.
The road to Brazil is not quite over for the defeated quarterfinalists. The losing quartet will have a chance to earn two berths to FIFA's inter-confederation play-offs in February 2027. On Thursday, Aug. 13, the two play-in matches will see Ivory Coast take on Ghana and, in a meeting between the previous two WAFCON champions, South Africa will take on Nigeria.
#cameroon #take #algeria
Morocco are heading back to the World Cup after making their debut in 2023, while Cameroon are set for their third World Cup appearance.
WAFCON hosts Morocco, who finished as runners-up in the prior two continental tournaments, will now take on Cameroon in the final four. The other semifinal will see a meeting between two first-time semifinalists, as Algeria face off against Malawi. Both semifinals will take place on Wednesday, Aug. 12, in Rabat.
With reigning champions Nigeria eliminated, there will be a new continental champion in Africa. None of the four semifinalists have ever lifted the trophy either.
The road to Brazil is not quite over for the defeated quarterfinalists. The losing quartet will have a chance to earn two berths to FIFA's inter-confederation play-offs in February 2027. On Thursday, Aug. 13, the two play-in matches will see Ivory Coast take on Ghana and, in a meeting between the previous two WAFCON champions, South Africa will take on Nigeria.
#cameroon #take #algeria
3 months ago
There is something different about this Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON 2026). Not because of the packed stadiums, not because of the goals. Not even because of the quality of football — although that has continued to improve with every edition.
This tournament feels different because, perhaps for the first time, reputation alone is no longer enough.
For years, conversations around African women's football started and ended with a familiar list of nations. Nigeria, South Africa, Morocco, Cameroon, Ghana. They were predicted to dominate, while everyone else was merely expected to participate. WAFCON 2026 has quietly challenged that ***** umption.
This tournament has reminded us that African women's football has entered a new era. One where investment, opportunity and belief are beginning to level the playing field.
Many expected the traditional heavyweights to progress comfortably. Instead, this tournament has produced twists that have forced the continent to pay attention. Established teams have had to fight for every point, while emerging nations have shown they are no longer satisfied with simply making up the numbers. That is not a sign that the giants are falling, it is a sign that everyone else is rising.
#tournament #african #different
This tournament feels different because, perhaps for the first time, reputation alone is no longer enough.
For years, conversations around African women's football started and ended with a familiar list of nations. Nigeria, South Africa, Morocco, Cameroon, Ghana. They were predicted to dominate, while everyone else was merely expected to participate. WAFCON 2026 has quietly challenged that ***** umption.
This tournament has reminded us that African women's football has entered a new era. One where investment, opportunity and belief are beginning to level the playing field.
Many expected the traditional heavyweights to progress comfortably. Instead, this tournament has produced twists that have forced the continent to pay attention. Established teams have had to fight for every point, while emerging nations have shown they are no longer satisfied with simply making up the numbers. That is not a sign that the giants are falling, it is a sign that everyone else is rising.
#tournament #african #different
3 months ago
The Zambia women's national team have failed to reach the knockout stage of the Women's Africa Cup of Nations and will thus miss out on competing in the 2027 women's World Cup.
Despite beating regional rival Malawi 2-1 in their final WAFCON group-stage match Wednesday in Rabat, Morocco, the Copper Queens were eliminated after Nigeria defeated Egypt in the other Group C match. Zambia was eliminated based on the total number of goals scored among the top three teams.
As a result, WAFCON debutants Malawi have reached the knockout stage of the continental tournament and kept alive their hopes of qualifying for the 2027 Women's World Cup.
The final minutes of both fixtures were climactic. Malawi, Nigeria (who are 10-time and reigning WAFCON champions) and Zambia were all level on six points as both games progressed. This eliminated the head-to-head deciding factor between them in favor of the number of goals each of those teams scored against each other.
Malawi upset Nigeria with a 3-2 victory in their first WAFCON match on July 28, thrusting the Super Falcons in a nervy third-place position in their group following Zambia's 6-0 victory over Egypt the same day. Nigeria steadied themselves on Aug. 1 with a crucial 1-0 victory over Zambia, but still finished the second matchday in third place behind their opponents. Malawi secured their second victory of the tournament with a 1-0 win over Egypt that kept them top of the group heading into the final match day.
#malawi #wafcon #match #final
Despite beating regional rival Malawi 2-1 in their final WAFCON group-stage match Wednesday in Rabat, Morocco, the Copper Queens were eliminated after Nigeria defeated Egypt in the other Group C match. Zambia was eliminated based on the total number of goals scored among the top three teams.
As a result, WAFCON debutants Malawi have reached the knockout stage of the continental tournament and kept alive their hopes of qualifying for the 2027 Women's World Cup.
The final minutes of both fixtures were climactic. Malawi, Nigeria (who are 10-time and reigning WAFCON champions) and Zambia were all level on six points as both games progressed. This eliminated the head-to-head deciding factor between them in favor of the number of goals each of those teams scored against each other.
Malawi upset Nigeria with a 3-2 victory in their first WAFCON match on July 28, thrusting the Super Falcons in a nervy third-place position in their group following Zambia's 6-0 victory over Egypt the same day. Nigeria steadied themselves on Aug. 1 with a crucial 1-0 victory over Zambia, but still finished the second matchday in third place behind their opponents. Malawi secured their second victory of the tournament with a 1-0 win over Egypt that kept them top of the group heading into the final match day.
#malawi #wafcon #match #final
3 months ago
Star striker Thembi Kgatlana scored as South Africa edged Burkina Faso 1-0 on Tuesday to squeeze into the Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) quarter-finals in Morocco.
Mexico-based Kgatlana struck her second goal of the tournament after 21 minutes in Casablanca, then her team withstood continuous second-half pressure in a tense match.
The winning goal will haunt Burkinabe central defender Madinatou Rouamba, who failed to cut off a cross from Fikile Magama, leaving Kgatlana to tap the ball past goalkeeper Nina Dabilgou.
Burkina Faso were awarded a penalty just two minutes into the second half, but the decision by the Cameroonian referee was reversed after a VAR review.
The rest of the half saw a string of Burkinabe attacks, but a lack of creativity, wild shooting and an impressive display from goalkeeper Kaylin Swart defied the west Africans.
#burkina #goal
Mexico-based Kgatlana struck her second goal of the tournament after 21 minutes in Casablanca, then her team withstood continuous second-half pressure in a tense match.
The winning goal will haunt Burkinabe central defender Madinatou Rouamba, who failed to cut off a cross from Fikile Magama, leaving Kgatlana to tap the ball past goalkeeper Nina Dabilgou.
Burkina Faso were awarded a penalty just two minutes into the second half, but the decision by the Cameroonian referee was reversed after a VAR review.
The rest of the half saw a string of Burkinabe attacks, but a lack of creativity, wild shooting and an impressive display from goalkeeper Kaylin Swart defied the west Africans.
#burkina #goal
3 months ago
Martine Medesse of Benin Republic's Amazons clears the ball as Nigeria's Super Falcons qualify for the Women Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) 2026 after playing a 1-1 draw (3-1 aggregate) with Benin Republic's Amazons in the second leg of the WAFCON 2026 qualifying match at MKO Abiola Sports Arena in Abeokuta, Ogun State, on October 28, 2025. (Photo by Adekunle Ajayi/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
The 2026 FIFA World Cup wrapped last month, and with it went 39 days of the kind of moments that make a tournament unforgettable: a teenage phenom stealing highlight reels with his flair, a scrappy underdog nation refusing to go home, a 40-year-old goalkeeper turning in the performance of his career, a nine-figure transfer rumor before the confetti had even settled. For four weeks, the entire sports world organized itself around this single competition. But the appetite for those storylines didn't end when the final whistle blew, and it doesn't need a men's tournament to be satisfied. Right now, in stadiums and arenas across the world, women's sports are producing the exact same arcs: breakout stars, Cinderella runs, veteran redemption stories, record-breaking numbers, and transfer fees rewriting what the sport is worth. They're just not getting the same attention. Here are five World Cup moments and the women's sports stories playing out in real time that deserve to be next on your watchlist.
PERTH, AUSTRALIA - AUGUST 03: Morocco players celebrate advancing to the knock out stage after the 1-0 victory in the FIFA Women's World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023 Group H match between Morocco and Colombia at Perth Rectangular Stadium on August 03, 2023 in Perth, Australia. (Photo by Alex Grimm - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)
Liked Lamine Yamal's flair? Watch Morocco's Atlas Lionesses at WAFCON.
Yamal spent this World Cup as one of the most-watched players on the planet, a teenager with more than 50 million Instagram followers turning every touch into a moment. Morocco is hosting the Women's Africa Cup of Nations for a third straight edition, running through August 16 across Rabat and Casablanca, and the Atlas Lionesses have opened their campaign in commanding form. They beat Kenya 4-0 to open the tournament, then beat Algeria 1-0 to move to two wins from two matches, sitting atop Group A with five goals scored and none conceded. The breakout to watch is Barcelona Femení prospect Kautar Azraf, flagged by CAF as one of the country's brightest young talents ahead of her first senior call-up, the same "unproven teenager announces herself on the biggest stage" arc that made Yamal a global name this summer.
Liked Cape Verde's underdog run? Watch WAFCON's debutant nations.
Cape Verde's men's team was one of the World Cup's most beloved stories, a nation of fewer than 600,000 people holding its own against the sport's giants. Their women's game has its own version unfolding right now. Cape Verde and Malawi are both playing in their first-ever Women's AFCON this year
The 2026 FIFA World Cup wrapped last month, and with it went 39 days of the kind of moments that make a tournament unforgettable: a teenage phenom stealing highlight reels with his flair, a scrappy underdog nation refusing to go home, a 40-year-old goalkeeper turning in the performance of his career, a nine-figure transfer rumor before the confetti had even settled. For four weeks, the entire sports world organized itself around this single competition. But the appetite for those storylines didn't end when the final whistle blew, and it doesn't need a men's tournament to be satisfied. Right now, in stadiums and arenas across the world, women's sports are producing the exact same arcs: breakout stars, Cinderella runs, veteran redemption stories, record-breaking numbers, and transfer fees rewriting what the sport is worth. They're just not getting the same attention. Here are five World Cup moments and the women's sports stories playing out in real time that deserve to be next on your watchlist.
PERTH, AUSTRALIA - AUGUST 03: Morocco players celebrate advancing to the knock out stage after the 1-0 victory in the FIFA Women's World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023 Group H match between Morocco and Colombia at Perth Rectangular Stadium on August 03, 2023 in Perth, Australia. (Photo by Alex Grimm - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)
Liked Lamine Yamal's flair? Watch Morocco's Atlas Lionesses at WAFCON.
Yamal spent this World Cup as one of the most-watched players on the planet, a teenager with more than 50 million Instagram followers turning every touch into a moment. Morocco is hosting the Women's Africa Cup of Nations for a third straight edition, running through August 16 across Rabat and Casablanca, and the Atlas Lionesses have opened their campaign in commanding form. They beat Kenya 4-0 to open the tournament, then beat Algeria 1-0 to move to two wins from two matches, sitting atop Group A with five goals scored and none conceded. The breakout to watch is Barcelona Femení prospect Kautar Azraf, flagged by CAF as one of the country's brightest young talents ahead of her first senior call-up, the same "unproven teenager announces herself on the biggest stage" arc that made Yamal a global name this summer.
Liked Cape Verde's underdog run? Watch WAFCON's debutant nations.
Cape Verde's men's team was one of the World Cup's most beloved stories, a nation of fewer than 600,000 people holding its own against the sport's giants. Their women's game has its own version unfolding right now. Cape Verde and Malawi are both playing in their first-ever Women's AFCON this year
3 months ago
Cape Verde is a footballing nation that's on the rise. Fresh from making history at their first men's World Cup, the Cape Verde's women's side broke new ground on Wednesday as they made their WAFCON debut.
Whilst a 2-0 defeat against Ghana wasn't the fairytale start they were hoping for, it was another sizeable milestone in the story of Cape Verdean football. The journey to Morocco 2026 hasn't happened by chance, however. It's the product of a long process that is starting to yield tangible results for the Blue Sharks. The man responsible for overseeing this plan, and much more, is Rui Costa, the national technical director of the Cape Verde Football Federation.
Costa might well be the hardest-working person in show business. "My role covers coach education, talent development, youth football, women's football, and the implementation of long-term technical projects in close collaboration with FIFA, CAF, and other international partners," he tells me. His all-encompassing role also includes "ensuring that our player development pathway is aligned with a clear football philosophy and a sustainable vision for the future."
By his own admission, the role is more than a point of professional pride. It's the culmination of a dream. Costa's journey reflects that of many of the national team players. Leaving the country to pursue increased opportunities before returning home to put those experiences into practice.
"I spent many years in England, where I built my entire coaching career. England gave me the opportunity to become the coach and person I am today. Every morning, I genuinely say, 'Thank you, England.' The experiences, the people, and the football culture shaped me professionally and personally. I learned an incredible amount from English football, and I will always be grateful to the English Football ******* ociation, the clubs I worked with, and everyone who contributed to my journey."
#Football #cape
Whilst a 2-0 defeat against Ghana wasn't the fairytale start they were hoping for, it was another sizeable milestone in the story of Cape Verdean football. The journey to Morocco 2026 hasn't happened by chance, however. It's the product of a long process that is starting to yield tangible results for the Blue Sharks. The man responsible for overseeing this plan, and much more, is Rui Costa, the national technical director of the Cape Verde Football Federation.
Costa might well be the hardest-working person in show business. "My role covers coach education, talent development, youth football, women's football, and the implementation of long-term technical projects in close collaboration with FIFA, CAF, and other international partners," he tells me. His all-encompassing role also includes "ensuring that our player development pathway is aligned with a clear football philosophy and a sustainable vision for the future."
By his own admission, the role is more than a point of professional pride. It's the culmination of a dream. Costa's journey reflects that of many of the national team players. Leaving the country to pursue increased opportunities before returning home to put those experiences into practice.
"I spent many years in England, where I built my entire coaching career. England gave me the opportunity to become the coach and person I am today. Every morning, I genuinely say, 'Thank you, England.' The experiences, the people, and the football culture shaped me professionally and personally. I learned an incredible amount from English football, and I will always be grateful to the English Football ******* ociation, the clubs I worked with, and everyone who contributed to my journey."
#Football #cape
3 months ago
Amad Diallo's return from World Cup duty brings with it a significant degree of expectation.
While Ivory Coast did not perform brilliantly in the United States, going out in the last 32, Amad impressed with his two goals at the tournament.
That was as many as the 24-year-old managed all last season for the Old Trafford outfit.
Add in his three-goal haul at the Africa Cup of Nations and Amad's form at international level was significantly better than for his club.
Indeed, until the final day of the campaign at Brighton, he didn't even manage an ******* ist for Manchester United from the point at which he left for Afcon in December.
#united #ivory #africa #nations
While Ivory Coast did not perform brilliantly in the United States, going out in the last 32, Amad impressed with his two goals at the tournament.
That was as many as the 24-year-old managed all last season for the Old Trafford outfit.
Add in his three-goal haul at the Africa Cup of Nations and Amad's form at international level was significantly better than for his club.
Indeed, until the final day of the campaign at Brighton, he didn't even manage an ******* ist for Manchester United from the point at which he left for Afcon in December.
#united #ivory #africa #nations
3 months ago
In the 73rd minute of a scoreless match, Malawi forward Temwa Chawinga shot down the field like an arrow to receive a long pass from midfield. The ball dropped into the pocket between the opponent's backline and goalkeeper, a ripe scenario for an attacker whose pace is as blistering as her decision-making.
Chawinga, who plays for the Kansas City Current in the National Women's Soccer League, nudged the ball with her chest to the goalkeeper's left, ran around her right, and found a half volley to begin an extraordinary new chapter of firsts in her career: not only her first goal at the Women's Africa Cup of Nations, but also her country's.
Malawi defeated 10-time champions and current continental ***** le holders Nigeria in a dramatic 3-2 upset victory on Tuesday, thanks to two goals from Temwa and one from her older sister and OL Lyonnes forward, Tabitha, at the Al Medina Stadium in Rabat, Morocco.
The win puts the southern African nation in a crucial second place in their group behind Zambia on goal differential.
"We are going (to WAFCON) to compete, not just to participate," Chawinga told The Athletic before she departed for Morocco.
#temwa #current #goal #city
Chawinga, who plays for the Kansas City Current in the National Women's Soccer League, nudged the ball with her chest to the goalkeeper's left, ran around her right, and found a half volley to begin an extraordinary new chapter of firsts in her career: not only her first goal at the Women's Africa Cup of Nations, but also her country's.
Malawi defeated 10-time champions and current continental ***** le holders Nigeria in a dramatic 3-2 upset victory on Tuesday, thanks to two goals from Temwa and one from her older sister and OL Lyonnes forward, Tabitha, at the Al Medina Stadium in Rabat, Morocco.
The win puts the southern African nation in a crucial second place in their group behind Zambia on goal differential.
"We are going (to WAFCON) to compete, not just to participate," Chawinga told The Athletic before she departed for Morocco.
#temwa #current #goal #city
3 months ago
'Briu' is a Cape Verdean Creole word that can mean grit, determination, drive, focus or energy. That's how national team forward Sandra Soares-Martins describes the mood in camp as her side prepares for its first-ever WAFCON match.
But such is the rise of the country's national teams as a whole within the past decade, 'briu' could be used to describe the Cape Verdean Football Federation.
While the men's side were making history competing in a first-ever senior World Cup, the women's team were busy putting the final touches to their preparations to create yet more history for the island nation.
The newly expanded 16-team tournament is underway in Morocco after kicking off Sunday, July 26, following a delay from March.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) expanded the tournament from 12 to 16 teams after qualification ended. Before that decision, Cape Verde secured their place in Morocco by winning two-legged ties against Guinea and Mali.
#morocco #briu #side #ever
But such is the rise of the country's national teams as a whole within the past decade, 'briu' could be used to describe the Cape Verdean Football Federation.
While the men's side were making history competing in a first-ever senior World Cup, the women's team were busy putting the final touches to their preparations to create yet more history for the island nation.
The newly expanded 16-team tournament is underway in Morocco after kicking off Sunday, July 26, following a delay from March.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) expanded the tournament from 12 to 16 teams after qualification ended. Before that decision, Cape Verde secured their place in Morocco by winning two-legged ties against Guinea and Mali.
#morocco #briu #side #ever
4 months ago
Borussia Dortmund have made an enquiry about Paris Saint-Germain forward Ibrahim Mbaye (18), according to a report from Fabrizio Romano.
Mbaye has accrued plenty of international experience in recent months. Since committing to Senegal, he has played in the Africa Cup of Nations and also scored in the FIFA World Cup. Prior to heading to AFCON in the winter, Mbaye was featuring regularly, but his gametime decreased upon his return from the tournament.
He has been playing a bit-part role under Luis Enrique, and with the European champions pursuing a deal for Maghnes Akliouche, that may not change next season. As a result, Mbaye wants to leave the club, despite his entourage attempting to dissuade him from making such a decision, Foot Mercato understands.
Much of the interest comes from the Premier League, with Aston Villa and Tottenham Hotspur cited as suitors. However, Borussia Dortmund have now also made an enquiry in recent days.
GFFN | Luke Entwistle
Mbaye has accrued plenty of international experience in recent months. Since committing to Senegal, he has played in the Africa Cup of Nations and also scored in the FIFA World Cup. Prior to heading to AFCON in the winter, Mbaye was featuring regularly, but his gametime decreased upon his return from the tournament.
He has been playing a bit-part role under Luis Enrique, and with the European champions pursuing a deal for Maghnes Akliouche, that may not change next season. As a result, Mbaye wants to leave the club, despite his entourage attempting to dissuade him from making such a decision, Foot Mercato understands.
Much of the interest comes from the Premier League, with Aston Villa and Tottenham Hotspur cited as suitors. However, Borussia Dortmund have now also made an enquiry in recent days.
GFFN | Luke Entwistle
4 months ago
Senegal have parted company with manager Pape Thiaw after the country's last-32 elimination at the World Cup 2026.
The Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) confirmed the decision on Sunday in a statement that read: "After a thorough evaluation of the sporting results and prospects of the national team, the Executive Committee deemed it necessary to initiate this procedure in the best interests of Senegalese football."
Senegal came into the World Cup with high hopes as the reigning Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) champion.
But their campaign in North America got off to a rocky start, as they lost their opening two group matches against France and Norway.
The Lions of Teranga still scraped into the round of 32 as one of the best third-place teams following a 5-0 triumph over Iraq.
The Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) confirmed the decision on Sunday in a statement that read: "After a thorough evaluation of the sporting results and prospects of the national team, the Executive Committee deemed it necessary to initiate this procedure in the best interests of Senegalese football."
Senegal came into the World Cup with high hopes as the reigning Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) champion.
But their campaign in North America got off to a rocky start, as they lost their opening two group matches against France and Norway.
The Lions of Teranga still scraped into the round of 32 as one of the best third-place teams following a 5-0 triumph over Iraq.
4 months ago
Ibrahim Mbaye (18) wants to leave formative club Paris Saint-Germain amid interest from Aston Villa and Tottenham Hotspur, according to a report from Foot Mercato.
Mbaye has accrued plenty of international experience in recent months. Since committing to Senegal, he has played in an Africa Cup of Nations and also scored in a FIFA World Cup. Prior to heading to AFCON in the winter, Mbaye was featuring regularly, but his gametime decreased upon his return from the tournament.
He has been playing a bit-part role under Luis Enrique, and with the European champions pursuing a deal for Maghnes Akliouche, that may not change next season. As a result, Mbaye wants to leave the club, despite his entourage attempting to dissuade him from making such a decision.
Aston Villa, who were a touted suitor back in January, are very interested in signing the forward, Foot Mercato understands. Tottenham Hotspur are also in the race, but to a lesser degree than their Premier League rivals.
GFFN | Luke Entwistle
Mbaye has accrued plenty of international experience in recent months. Since committing to Senegal, he has played in an Africa Cup of Nations and also scored in a FIFA World Cup. Prior to heading to AFCON in the winter, Mbaye was featuring regularly, but his gametime decreased upon his return from the tournament.
He has been playing a bit-part role under Luis Enrique, and with the European champions pursuing a deal for Maghnes Akliouche, that may not change next season. As a result, Mbaye wants to leave the club, despite his entourage attempting to dissuade him from making such a decision.
Aston Villa, who were a touted suitor back in January, are very interested in signing the forward, Foot Mercato understands. Tottenham Hotspur are also in the race, but to a lesser degree than their Premier League rivals.
GFFN | Luke Entwistle
4 months ago
Real Madrid players continued to have a great World Cup as the Round-of-16 games kicked off in some style.
The first game of the night saw Morocco take on Canada, and the co-hosts came out of the blocks like a team on a mission.
Jesse Marsch’s side looked intense and purposeful against the AFCON champions and produced the much better performance on the night.
However, Morocco showed what top teams do on a regular basis: resilience. They survived the moments against them and, when it was their turn, they were clinical.
The game ended 3-0 in favour of the AFCON champions, with Real Madrid star Brahim Diaz getting ***** ists for the second and third goals.
The first game of the night saw Morocco take on Canada, and the co-hosts came out of the blocks like a team on a mission.
Jesse Marsch’s side looked intense and purposeful against the AFCON champions and produced the much better performance on the night.
However, Morocco showed what top teams do on a regular basis: resilience. They survived the moments against them and, when it was their turn, they were clinical.
The game ended 3-0 in favour of the AFCON champions, with Real Madrid star Brahim Diaz getting ***** ists for the second and third goals.
4 months ago
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is slowly entering the stages where every result feels like an event on its own.
The Round-of-16 games kicked off last night as teams now look to book their place in the quarter-finals of the tournament.
Morocco took on co-hosts Canada in the first game of the night, and the African nation managed to get a 3-0 win over their opposition.
It was a game in which the scoreline was very flattering towards the AFCON winners, with the actual picture being much more in favour of Canada.
It was football in its most beautiful and cruel version, as Jesse Marsch’s side dominated the game throughout, only to see Morocco be more clinical in the moments that mattered.
The Round-of-16 games kicked off last night as teams now look to book their place in the quarter-finals of the tournament.
Morocco took on co-hosts Canada in the first game of the night, and the African nation managed to get a 3-0 win over their opposition.
It was a game in which the scoreline was very flattering towards the AFCON winners, with the actual picture being much more in favour of Canada.
It was football in its most beautiful and cruel version, as Jesse Marsch’s side dominated the game throughout, only to see Morocco be more clinical in the moments that mattered.
4 months ago
Morocco are through to the quarter-final of the 2026 World Cup after a hard-fought win over Canada in Houston. Azzedine Ounhai was the star performer with two composed finishes against the co-hosts.
The 2022 World Cup breakout star scored the opening goal of the game with a well-executed free-kick routine that involved ex-Borussia Dortmund fullback Achraf Hakimi. He doubled their advantage less than ten minutes to go with a perfect counterattack move.
The Atlas Lions had a very difficult first-half, which also saw Ismael Saibari substituted off for an injury. FC Bayern's new signing was the star player in Morocco’s first four games, and he'll hope to be available for the rest of the tournament. Similarly, his new club will now have to wait for further tests to understand the extent of his injury.
Mohamed Ouahbi's side received the lion's share of yellow cards (4/6) by Michael Oliver in the hard-fought first 45 minutes encounter. After the break, they managed to repeat the attacking spark they showed throughout the tournament.
Canadian-born Bono made a decent save before Ounahi's second goal put the game beyond Jesse Marsch's side. Soufiane Rahimi, who takes Saibari's place, added a third goal in injury-time with another counterattack move. After his miserable penalty-kick miss in the AFCON final, Brahim Diaz continues to deliver for Morocco as he provided the ******* ists for the last couple of goals.
The 2022 World Cup breakout star scored the opening goal of the game with a well-executed free-kick routine that involved ex-Borussia Dortmund fullback Achraf Hakimi. He doubled their advantage less than ten minutes to go with a perfect counterattack move.
The Atlas Lions had a very difficult first-half, which also saw Ismael Saibari substituted off for an injury. FC Bayern's new signing was the star player in Morocco’s first four games, and he'll hope to be available for the rest of the tournament. Similarly, his new club will now have to wait for further tests to understand the extent of his injury.
Mohamed Ouahbi's side received the lion's share of yellow cards (4/6) by Michael Oliver in the hard-fought first 45 minutes encounter. After the break, they managed to repeat the attacking spark they showed throughout the tournament.
Canadian-born Bono made a decent save before Ounahi's second goal put the game beyond Jesse Marsch's side. Soufiane Rahimi, who takes Saibari's place, added a third goal in injury-time with another counterattack move. After his miserable penalty-kick miss in the AFCON final, Brahim Diaz continues to deliver for Morocco as he provided the ******* ists for the last couple of goals.
4 months ago
A legend takes a bow.
In the wake of Algeria's 2-0 defeat to Switzerland in the 2026 World Cup Round of 32 on Friday morning, Riyad Mahrez announced that he is retiring from international football!
The 35-year-old winger will no longer wear the Algerian national team shirt.
With 119 caps to his name, Mahrez bids farewell to the Greens as an absolute legend of Algerian football.
The winner of AFCON 2019, he had sent his country into the final that year thanks to his mythical free-kick against Nigeria in the very last second.
In the wake of Algeria's 2-0 defeat to Switzerland in the 2026 World Cup Round of 32 on Friday morning, Riyad Mahrez announced that he is retiring from international football!
The 35-year-old winger will no longer wear the Algerian national team shirt.
With 119 caps to his name, Mahrez bids farewell to the Greens as an absolute legend of Algerian football.
The winner of AFCON 2019, he had sent his country into the final that year thanks to his mythical free-kick against Nigeria in the very last second.
4 months ago
In the city famous for giving us rock legends Nirvana, Senegal contrived a way to slip from a blissful state back into football ****** in Seattle.
And VAR is the devil laughing on their shoulder.
The parallels between the Teranga Lions' last-gasp World Cup exit and January's Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) final, in which they were also infuriated by a controversial late penalty awarded following the intervention of the video ****** istant referee, are mind-blowingly similar.
This time, thankfully, no one walked off the field as they lost 3-2 to Belgium after Youri Tielemans converted from the spot in the 125th minute, but coach Pape Thiaw must surely feel a growing kinship with Sisyphus, the character from Greek mythology's underworld doomed forever to pitch all his efforts into rolling a giant rock up a hill, only to see it crash down again just as he thinks he has reached the pinnacle.
"We had the game in hand," Thiaw lamented afterwards, before noting it felt "cruel" to ultimately see success slip through their fingers.
And VAR is the devil laughing on their shoulder.
The parallels between the Teranga Lions' last-gasp World Cup exit and January's Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) final, in which they were also infuriated by a controversial late penalty awarded following the intervention of the video ****** istant referee, are mind-blowingly similar.
This time, thankfully, no one walked off the field as they lost 3-2 to Belgium after Youri Tielemans converted from the spot in the 125th minute, but coach Pape Thiaw must surely feel a growing kinship with Sisyphus, the character from Greek mythology's underworld doomed forever to pitch all his efforts into rolling a giant rock up a hill, only to see it crash down again just as he thinks he has reached the pinnacle.
"We had the game in hand," Thiaw lamented afterwards, before noting it felt "cruel" to ultimately see success slip through their fingers.
4 months ago
Claude Le Roy, 78, has been appointed the new coach of the Republic of Congo, the federation announced on Monday with a brief to take the team, which did not qualify for the World Cup, to the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
It will be his first head-coaching role since leaving Togo in 2021.
"The meeting room of the Ministry of Sports hosted... the official ceremony for the signing of Claude Le Roy’s contract as expert sports consultant and national coach of the Red Devils," the Congolese Football Federation wrote on its social media accounts.
In Africa, the much-travelled Frenchman, has led Cameroon and RD Congo twice each, as well as Senegal, Ghana and Togo. It will be a second stint in charge of Congo, who he coached from 2013 to 2015.
Under the "White Wizard", the Red Devils reached the quarter-finals of AFCON 2015, their best result in the competition since 1974.
It will be his first head-coaching role since leaving Togo in 2021.
"The meeting room of the Ministry of Sports hosted... the official ceremony for the signing of Claude Le Roy’s contract as expert sports consultant and national coach of the Red Devils," the Congolese Football Federation wrote on its social media accounts.
In Africa, the much-travelled Frenchman, has led Cameroon and RD Congo twice each, as well as Senegal, Ghana and Togo. It will be a second stint in charge of Congo, who he coached from 2013 to 2015.
Under the "White Wizard", the Red Devils reached the quarter-finals of AFCON 2015, their best result in the competition since 1974.
4 months ago
Scott McKenna, Aaron Hickey and Lewis Ferguson did not take part in Scotland's group training on Sunday.
The trio instead did individual work at the Scots' base in Charlotte, North Carolina, as Steve Clarke's men prepare for their final World Cup Group C game against Brazil on Wednesday.
Right-back Hickey came off in the 1-0 win over Haiti and was absent for the 1-0 defeat by Morocco on Friday at the Boston stadium.
Centre-back McKenna has been managing a calf complaint and has yet to feature while midfielder Ferguson played the 90 minutes against the Afcon champions.
Kieran Tierney was taken off against Morocco in the second half with cramp but he trained with the rest of the squad on Sunday morning.
The trio instead did individual work at the Scots' base in Charlotte, North Carolina, as Steve Clarke's men prepare for their final World Cup Group C game against Brazil on Wednesday.
Right-back Hickey came off in the 1-0 win over Haiti and was absent for the 1-0 defeat by Morocco on Friday at the Boston stadium.
Centre-back McKenna has been managing a calf complaint and has yet to feature while midfielder Ferguson played the 90 minutes against the Afcon champions.
Kieran Tierney was taken off against Morocco in the second half with cramp but he trained with the rest of the squad on Sunday morning.
4 months ago
Germany will begin their World Cup campaign against the smallest population ever to qualify, Curacao, in an intriguing Group E completed by Ecuador, who finished second in South American qualifying, and 2023 Afcon champions Ivory Coast.
Germany arrive with optimism under the guidance of Julian Nagelsmann, and the country expects much more than their past two group-stage exits. But they face stiff competition from Ecuador’s golden generation, built around Chelsea midfielder Moises Caicedo, as well as a talented Ivory Coast side who could spring a surprise.
Curacao are the minnows of the group but **** Advocaat has built a solid defensive unit and a team cohesion that has seen them rival bigger nations, and the expanded format of this 2026 World Cup gives every side hope of qualifying for the knockout stages, with eight third-placed sides progressing from the 12 groups.
(all times BST)
14 June, 6pm: Germany 7-1 Curacao – NRG Stadium, Houston
Germany arrive with optimism under the guidance of Julian Nagelsmann, and the country expects much more than their past two group-stage exits. But they face stiff competition from Ecuador’s golden generation, built around Chelsea midfielder Moises Caicedo, as well as a talented Ivory Coast side who could spring a surprise.
Curacao are the minnows of the group but **** Advocaat has built a solid defensive unit and a team cohesion that has seen them rival bigger nations, and the expanded format of this 2026 World Cup gives every side hope of qualifying for the knockout stages, with eight third-placed sides progressing from the 12 groups.
(all times BST)
14 June, 6pm: Germany 7-1 Curacao – NRG Stadium, Houston
4 months ago
Scotland's spirited second-half rally was not enough to bring any World Cup joy as they suffered a frustrating 1-0 defeat to Morocco in Foxborough.
After beating Haiti in their Group C opener, Steve Clarke's side needed only a draw against the AFCON champions at the Boston Stadium to all-but guarantee a spot in the knockout stages.
However, Morocco showed why they are ranked sixth in the world, scoring through Ismael Saibari after 70 seconds – the earliest goal Scotland have conceded at a World Cup, on their return to the big stage after 28 years.
Clarke's side rolled with the punches in a mostly one-sided first half but the confidence and composure returned after the break and there were a couple of penalty claims denied. However, despite the impressive turnaround they could not get back on level terms.
Clarke switched up his side by bringing in Nathan Patterson, Kieran Tierney and Ryan Christie for Aaron Hickey, Ben Gannon-Doak and Lawrence Shankland, and moving to a 4-5-1 with Che Adams leading the line.
After beating Haiti in their Group C opener, Steve Clarke's side needed only a draw against the AFCON champions at the Boston Stadium to all-but guarantee a spot in the knockout stages.
However, Morocco showed why they are ranked sixth in the world, scoring through Ismael Saibari after 70 seconds – the earliest goal Scotland have conceded at a World Cup, on their return to the big stage after 28 years.
Clarke's side rolled with the punches in a mostly one-sided first half but the confidence and composure returned after the break and there were a couple of penalty claims denied. However, despite the impressive turnaround they could not get back on level terms.
Clarke switched up his side by bringing in Nathan Patterson, Kieran Tierney and Ryan Christie for Aaron Hickey, Ben Gannon-Doak and Lawrence Shankland, and moving to a 4-5-1 with Che Adams leading the line.
4 months ago
The 2026 World Cup is fully into the swing of things with all teams now having played their opening match of the campaign in North America.
After a build-up that centred around controversy, greed and conflict, fans have been captivated by some enthralling performances during round one of fixtures, with the likes of France and holders Argentina stamping their mark as rightful favourites.
So much can change as the group stage progresses, but here’s which nations make up the top 10 of The Independent’s World Cup 2026 power rankings:
You could just put Lionel Messi’s name at the top of this list after round one. Argentina have gone into their World Cup defence with a side that threatened to grow stale, with a new generation of players not exactly coming through since the crowing glory of Qatar. But their strategy of four years ago remains effective: pass to Messi and let him work his magic. A scintillating hat-trick against Algeria had tears flowing as the 38-year-old equalled Miroslav Klose’s all-time World Cup goalscoring record, and with three points immediately on the board, Argentina’s hopes of back-to-back **** les already burns bright.
From one record to another, Kylian Mbappe stole the show against the Senegal to surpass Pele’s all-time World Cup goal tally. His quest to play in a third World Cup final at just 27 is up and running. Senegal were expected to pose a real challenge to Les Blues - they were of course the reigning Afcon champions, until it was decided weren’t anymore. But after a relatively impotent first half from Didier Deschamps’ side, they became unleashed after the break, their electrifying attack powering them to a devastating victory. Even first real VAR horror show of the tournament, baffling denying Mbappe a stonewall penalty when the score was goalless, couldn’t derail France on their way to the perfect start.
After a build-up that centred around controversy, greed and conflict, fans have been captivated by some enthralling performances during round one of fixtures, with the likes of France and holders Argentina stamping their mark as rightful favourites.
So much can change as the group stage progresses, but here’s which nations make up the top 10 of The Independent’s World Cup 2026 power rankings:
You could just put Lionel Messi’s name at the top of this list after round one. Argentina have gone into their World Cup defence with a side that threatened to grow stale, with a new generation of players not exactly coming through since the crowing glory of Qatar. But their strategy of four years ago remains effective: pass to Messi and let him work his magic. A scintillating hat-trick against Algeria had tears flowing as the 38-year-old equalled Miroslav Klose’s all-time World Cup goalscoring record, and with three points immediately on the board, Argentina’s hopes of back-to-back **** les already burns bright.
From one record to another, Kylian Mbappe stole the show against the Senegal to surpass Pele’s all-time World Cup goal tally. His quest to play in a third World Cup final at just 27 is up and running. Senegal were expected to pose a real challenge to Les Blues - they were of course the reigning Afcon champions, until it was decided weren’t anymore. But after a relatively impotent first half from Didier Deschamps’ side, they became unleashed after the break, their electrifying attack powering them to a devastating victory. Even first real VAR horror show of the tournament, baffling denying Mbappe a stonewall penalty when the score was goalless, couldn’t derail France on their way to the perfect start.
5 months ago
Arsenal, Liverpool among teams interested in Moroccan wonderkid originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
One of the teams to look out for at the 2026 FIFA World Cup is Morocco, with the defending AFCON champions a perennial dark horse in recent tournaments, including their semi-final run at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where they lost to France. The squad includes the likes of Achraf Hakimi, Brahim Diaz, and Noussair Mazraoui, but the real star of their opening match of the tournament against Brazil was Ayyoub Bouaddi.
The 18-year-old would prove to be too much for the Brazilians to handle, recording 60 passes, five interceptions, while winning out on 9 duels in the midfield. Given that it's his World Cup debut, this is rather impressive for someone at that young of an age on the global stage. But for those keyed into Ligue 1, these numbers aren't too surprising given that Bouaddi recorded 33 interceptions and won out on 49 tackles during 42 games with Lille this season.
All of this has caught the eyes of multiple of the bigger clubs around the world, making the Moroccan midfielder one of the names to watch during the summer transfer window, with multiple Premier League sides looking at acquiring his services, chief among them: ****** nal and Liverpool.
According to a recent report from Fabrizio Romano, both English sides have been in contact with Bouaddi's representatives about making a move in the coming weeks.
One of the teams to look out for at the 2026 FIFA World Cup is Morocco, with the defending AFCON champions a perennial dark horse in recent tournaments, including their semi-final run at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where they lost to France. The squad includes the likes of Achraf Hakimi, Brahim Diaz, and Noussair Mazraoui, but the real star of their opening match of the tournament against Brazil was Ayyoub Bouaddi.
The 18-year-old would prove to be too much for the Brazilians to handle, recording 60 passes, five interceptions, while winning out on 9 duels in the midfield. Given that it's his World Cup debut, this is rather impressive for someone at that young of an age on the global stage. But for those keyed into Ligue 1, these numbers aren't too surprising given that Bouaddi recorded 33 interceptions and won out on 49 tackles during 42 games with Lille this season.
All of this has caught the eyes of multiple of the bigger clubs around the world, making the Moroccan midfielder one of the names to watch during the summer transfer window, with multiple Premier League sides looking at acquiring his services, chief among them: ****** nal and Liverpool.
According to a recent report from Fabrizio Romano, both English sides have been in contact with Bouaddi's representatives about making a move in the coming weeks.
