Africa Sport News — Page 78
CAF reveals important timelines for the 2026/27 Champions League and Confederation Cup.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has unveiled the full calendar for the 2026/27 Interclub competitions - the CAF Champions League and CAF Confederation Cup. Defending African champions Mamelodi Sundowns headline the country's challenge after ending their long wait for continental glory last season. Miguel Cardoso's side will now attempt to achieve what no South African club has managed before by successfully defending the CAF Champions League crown. Joining Sundowns in Africa's premier club competition are Betway Premiership champions Orlando Pirates, who edged the Brazilians to the domestic title in the 2025/26 campaign. Meanwhile, Kaizer Chiefs and Nedbank Cup winners Durban City will fly the South African flag in the CAF Confederation Cup. CAF's schedule shows the preliminary rounds opening in September, although the governing body is yet to conduct the official draws. The first preliminary round will be played over two weekends, with first-leg fixtures scheduled for 4-6 September 2026 before the return matches on 11-13 September. The second preliminary round, where all remaining clubs enter the competitions, will follow a month later. First legs are set for 16-18 October, while the decisive second legs will take place on 23-25 October. As Africa's highest-ranked club, Sundowns are widely expected...
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World Cup 2026: Kobbie Mainoo part of England's trio yet to see any action on the field
Kobbie Mainoo remains on the sidelines at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with the Manchester United midfielder one of three England outfield players still waiting for their first appearance as Thomas Tuchel prepares for a blockbuster semi-final against Argentina. England have enjoyed an impressive run to the last four, setting up a mouth-watering clash with the reigning world champions on Wednesday. Mainoo has yet to feature in Qatar, with fierce competition in midfield limiting his opportunities. The 21-year-old has been unable to break into a well-balanced unit featuring Declan Rice, Jude Bellingham, Morgan Rogers and Elliot Anderson, all of whom have played key roles in England's march to the semi-finals. Tuchel has largely trusted the same core of players since the tournament-opening 4-2 victory over Croatia, making only minor adjustments as England continued their winning run. That consistency has left Mainoo watching from the bench, despite arriving at the tournament as one of England's brightest young midfield talents. Mainoo is not alone in his wait. Defender Trevoh Chalobah and striker Ivan Toney are the only other England squad members yet to play a single minute. Chalobah joined the squad as a late replacement for the injured Tino Livramento but has...
SPORTS PLANET Podcast…EPISODE 114: Preview of the World Cup Semi-Finals
The semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup take place tomorrow and Wednesday when the remaining four teams battle each other. The winners will meet in the final on 19 July, while the losing teams will contest the third-place playoff. With four of the world’s strongest football nations still standing, fans can expect football of [...]
Man United Nearing Finalization of Agreement for Aston Villa Midfielder Tielemans
Manchester United are in advanced talks to sign Aston Villa midfielder Youri Tielemans, BBC Sport reports. United have prioritised strengthening their midfield positions this summer, but have so far met with frustration after failing to sign first choice Elliot Anderson, who is joining Manchester City, and Mateus Fernandes, who opted to move to Tottenham Hotspur [...]
“I wept for two hours,” stated Egypt's star Mostafa Ziko as he shared his emotional response to the devastating World Cup elimination at the hands of Argentina.
Egypt international striker Mostafa Ziko is struggling to overcome the emotional pain of the Pharaohsâ dramatic elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.Several days after Egyptâs heartbreaking Round of 16 defeat to Argentina, the forward revealed that the loss remains difficult to process, describing the experience as one of the most painful moments of his football career.Egypt appeared to be on the verge of securing a historic place in the World Cup quarter-finals after taking a commanding 2-0 lead against the South American giants. However, Argentina staged a remarkable comeback, scoring three late goals to complete a stunning turnaround and seal a 3-2 victory.The defeat sent shockwaves throughout Egyptian football, with supporters left devastated after watching their team come within minutes of achieving a memorable World Cup milestone.For Ziko, the disappointment has been particularly difficult to accept. The Egyptian forward admitted that the manner of the defeat made it even harder to move on, revealing the emotional impact the match had on him after the final whistle.âI canât seem to put this match behind me, and I feel I wonât be able to for a very long time,â Ziko said.The striker explained that the...
"We will secure our spot in the 2027 AFCON," stated Black Stars goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi.
Black Stars goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi has expressed confidence that Ghana will secure qualification for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) despite the disappointment of missing out on the knockout stages of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.Ghanaâs focus will now shift towards the AFCON qualifiers, which are scheduled to begin in September this year, as the team looks to return to Africaâs biggest football tournament after missing the previous edition held in Morocco.Ati-Zigi, who plays for Swiss side St. Gallen, believes the quality and hunger within the current Black Stars squad will be enough to guide the team to qualification for the tournament, which will be hosted jointly by Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda."If you look at the players we have, I think we have what it takes to qualify for the AFCON next year. These are young and hungry players," Ati-Zigi told Sporty FM in an interview.The experienced goalkeeper also believes Ghana can make a strong impression at the tournament if they secure their place."I believe we can make a statement with what we have as a group in the AFCON next year," he added.Ghana has been drawn in Group C of the AFCON...
Hervé Renard is poised to take over as the head coach for Senegal following the dismissal of Pape Thiaw.
The Senegal Football Federation (FSF) is reportedly considering experienced French coach Hervé Renard as a potential successor to Pape Thiaw following his departure as head coach of the Lions of Teranga.Thiaw has been shown the exit door after Senegal’s disappointing elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where they suffered a dramatic 3-2 defeat to Belgium in the Round of 32.The result brought an end to Senegal’s tournament campaign and reportedly increased pressure on the technical team, with several reports suggesting that Thiaw and members of his coaching staff decided to step down after failing to meet expectations.Following the sacking of Thiaw, the Senegal FA has begun exploring possible options to lead the national team into a new era, with Renard emerging as one of the coaches being considered.The French tactician brings vast international experience, having managed several national teams across Africa and achieved major success on the continent. His name is particularly respected in African football after guiding Zambia national football team to victory at the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations and later leading Ivory Coast national football team to the 2015 AFCON title.Renard’s most recent national team assignment was with Tunisia national football...
Ghanaians can anticipate greater performances from me in the upcoming season – Felix Afena-Gyan
Ghana international Felix Afena-Gyan has promised to deliver improved performances in the upcoming season after bringing his loan spell at Turkish side Amedspor to an end.The 23-year-old forward spent the entire 2025/26 campaign with the Turkish outfit, where he played a key role in helping the club secure promotion to the Turkish Super Lig.With his loan deal now concluded, Afena-Gyan is set to return to parent club Cremonese ahead of the new season, eager to build on his impressive campaign in Turkey.The former AS Roma striker featured in 35 matches across all competitions for Amedspor, scoring five goals and registering six assists in the Turkish First League.Speaking in an interview with Citi Sports, Afena-Gyan assured Ghanaians that they should expect a much stronger version of him next season.“Ghanaians should expect more from me in the new season because that’s the job I have to do,” he said.Afena-Gyan first rose to prominence during his time at Roma, where he announced himself with a match-winning brace against Genoa in Serie A under legendary Portuguese coach José Mourinho. The performance quickly established him as one of Ghana’s brightest young talents.Although injuries and fierce competition have affected...
Midfielder Shawkan Mohammed expresses pride in joining Aduana FC.
Aduana Football Club new signing, Shawkan Mohammed, has expressed his delight after completing a move to the Ghana Premier League side ahead of the 2026/27 season.The 23-year-old midfielder joins the two-time Ghana Premier League champions as a free agent following his departure from Tunisian giants Club Africain.Shawkan has signed a long-term contract with the Dormaa-based club and is expected to strengthen the teamâs midfield as they prepare for the new campaign.Speaking after his official unveiling, the midfielder shared his excitement about beginning a new chapter with the Ogya boys.âIâm proud to be part of the Ogya family. Together, letâs achieve great success on and off the field,â he said.The midfielder is already familiar with Ghanaian football, having enjoyed a successful spell with Accra Lions. He made 68 appearances over three seasons after joining the club from lower-tier side Koowa Naso FC in September 2021, scoring once during his time with the Accra-based outfit.In 2024, Shawkan secured a move to Club Africain on a three-year contract. However, his time in Tunisia was cut short after struggling for regular playing opportunities.The Ghanaian became a free agent in January after mutually agreeing to terminate his contract...
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Lawrence Ati Zigi supports Carlos Queiroz in his role as head coach of the Black Stars.
Black Stars goalkeeper Lawrence Ati Zigi has expressed his support for Carlos Queiroz to remain as Ghana's head coach, describing the Portuguese tactician as a positive influence on the national team.Queiroz, 73, was appointed in April on a short-term contract following the dismissal of Otto Addo in March, taking charge of the Black Stars ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.Despite guiding Ghana through the tournament, uncertainty continues to surround his future. Speculation intensified after a social media post from the veteran coach appeared to suggest he had stepped down.However, Queiroz later clarified in a viral interview that he had not resigned and remained in his position.Ati Zigi, who featured in two matches under Queiroz during the World Cup in North America, admitted he is unaware of the coach's contractual situation but believes retaining him would benefit the national team."I don't know about his contract situation, but I feel he is a great coach, and I love how he brought about the positivity in camp, but if the leadership wants him to stay, it will be a good decision," he told Sporty FM.The Black Stars showed encouraging signs at the World Cup despite falling...
Aduana FC has successfully completed the acquisition of former Accra Lions midfielder Shawkan Mohammed.
Ghana Premier League outfit Aduana FC have completed the signing of former Accra Lions midfielder Shawkan Mohammed ahead of the new season.The 23-year-old joins the two-time Premier League champions as a free agent following his departure from Tunisian giants Club Africain.Shawkan penned a long-term contract with the Dormaa-based outfit and is expected to play a huge role for the club in the upcoming football campaign."Aduana Football Club are delighted to announce the signing of Shawkan Mohammed on a long-term contract. The talented midfielder joins the Ogya Boys as the club continues to strengthen its squad ahead of the new season," Wrote the club.The midfielder is no stranger to Ghana football, having made 68 appearances for Accra Lions, scoring one goal across three seasons after joining from lower-tier side Koowa Naso FC in September 2021.Shawkan became a free agent in January after mutually terminating his contract with the Tunisian powerhouse on the back of limited game time at the club. He joined the club in 2024 on a three-year deal.Despite having a running contract, both parties agreed to go their separate ways ahead of the new season, with the midfielder signing for Aduana FC.Having...
World Cup 2026: It was an 'extraordinary and remarkable' competition - Black Stars assistant coach Roger De Sa
Black Stars assistant coach Roger De Sa has described the 2026 FIFA World Cup as a memorable and well-organised tournament, despite Ghana's disappointing Round of 32 elimination.The South African coach joined Ghana's technical team ahead of the global showpiece in North America and played a role in the Black Stars' campaign.Ghana began the tournament with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Panama before playing out a goalless draw against England.However, a 2-1 defeat to Croatia in their final Group L fixture saw the Black Stars finish third in the standings and progress to the Round of 32, where they were narrowly beaten 1-0 by Colombia to end their World Cup journey.Reflecting on the competition in an interview with KickOff, De Sa praised the organisation of the tournament, describing every aspect of the event as first-class."You know, World Cups are always special, you go to one or two of them, and they always get better, you know. The third one is even better," he shared during an interview with KickOff."I thought it was a fantastic tournament, very well organised. Great stadiums, great hotels, everything has been good. Good crowds, the stadiums are full,â he adds, revealing...
Carlos Queiroz remains in his position as the head coach of the Black Stars, according to assistant coach Roger De Sa.
Black Stars assistant coach Roger De Sa has suggested that Carlos Queiroz remains the head coach of Ghanaâs senior national team despite reports surrounding the Portuguese trainerâs future.Queiroz, who took over from Otto Addo on a short-term basis ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, appeared to hint at his departure after Ghanaâs elimination from the tournament, posting on social media that he was leaving his role with pride.However, the 73-year-old later revealed during a social media interview that he had not officially resigned from his position.De Sa, who was added to Ghanaâs technical team ahead of the World Cup, has now disclosed that he has not received any official communication confirming Queirozâs exit and believes the Portuguese coach remains in charge."I don't know if that's official [that he has left], I have only seen it on social media. But I don't think that is from him because he would have told me if that's the case," De Sa said in an interview with KickOff.Ghanaâs World Cup campaign began on a positive note with a 1-0 victory over Panama before the Black Stars secured a goalless draw against England. They ended the group stage with...
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Belgian Club Set to Pursue Durosinmi
Belgian club Genk are interested in Pisa SC striker Rafiu Durosinmi, Completesports.com reports. The Nigeria international moved to Pisa from Czech First Division club Viktoria Plzen for around €11 million in January. Durosinmi Failed To Shine In Italy Durosinmi failed to replicate the scoring form he enjoyed at Viktoria Plzen during his six-month spell in [...]
Super Eagles Forward Dismisses Transfer To Turkey
Wolverhampton Wanderers striker Tolu Arokodare has ruled out a move to Turkish Super Lig club Trabzonspor, Completesports.com reports. The Nigeria international is expected to leave Molineux this summer following Wolves’ relegation from the Premier League. Trabzonspor have revived their long-standing interest in the 25-year-old and have already submitted an official offer in a bid to [...]
Ghanaians urged to temper their expectations for the Black Stars following World Cup elimination - Sannie Daara
Former Ghana Football Association (GFA) Communications Director Ibrahim Sannie Daara has called on Ghanaian football fans to manage their expectations of the Black Stars ahead of major international tournaments.Daara believes unrealistic predictions about the national teamâs performance often create unnecessary disappointment among supporters, arguing that expectations must reflect the actual stage of development of the squad.The Black Starsâ 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign came to an end following a 1-0 defeat to Colombia in the Round of 32, a result that saw Ghana exit the tournament earlier than many fans had hoped.Speaking on Asempa FM, Daara said some supporters placed excessive pressure on the team by expecting deep progress despite the squad still undergoing a rebuilding phase."Let's stop predicting how far the Black Stars will go before every tournament. We all knew this team wasn't ready for the stage many predicted at the World Cup. That's what leaves many Ghanaians heartbroken," he said.According to the Senior CAF Media Officer, the Black Stars demonstrated commitment and determination during the tournament, but performances must be assessed realistically rather than compared to expectations that the team was not yet prepared to meet.Daara added that Ghanaâs World Cup...