by Emmanuel Atanga | Nov 15, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Ghana, Soccer
The Ghanaian national football team, the Black Stars, is set to take the field tonight in a decisive encounter against Niger. This match, pivotal for both sides, holds significant implications for their respective campaigns.
Coming off a mixed run of results, the Black Stars are eager to assert dominance and secure a vital victory. Coach Chris Hughton and his squad have been fine-tuning their strategies, with star players like Mohammed Kudus and Jordan Ayew expected to lead the charge.
Niger, however, is no pushover. Known for their resilience and tactical discipline, they will be looking to spoil Ghana’s plans and bolster their own position. The stage is set for an intense battle as fans from both nations anticipate a thrilling showdown.
The game kicks off at [insert time], with the hopes of millions riding on their teams’ performances. Can the Black Stars rise to the occasion and claim a crucial win?
by Emmanuel Atanga | Nov 15, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Soccer
Kick-off: 3 PM | Venue: Uganda
Bafana Bafana, having already secured qualification for AFCON 2025, are poised for a critical clash against Uganda this afternoon. With a chance to claim the top spot in their qualification group, Hugo Broos’ men will need a victory to leapfrog the table leaders. Currently two points behind Uganda, a win would ensure Bafana Bafana finish the campaign on a high note.
The starting XI features Ronwen Williams in goal, with Aubrey Modiba, Rushwin Dortley, Grant Kekana, and Khuliso Mudua forming the defensive line. The midfield is anchored by Teboho Mokoena, Bathusi Aubaas, and Luke Le Roux, while the attack will rely on Elias Mokwana, Oswin Appollis, and Evidence Makgopa.
Starting XI:
Goalkeeper: Ronwen Williams
Defenders: Aubrey Modiba, Rushwin Dortley, Grant Kekana, Khuliso Mudua
Midfielders: Teboho Mokoena, Bathusi Aubaas, Luke Le Roux
Forwards: Elias Mokwana, Oswin Appollis, Evidence Makgopa
Substitutes: Mofokeng, Chaine, Stephens, Morena, Mbatha, Maswanganyi, Dortley, Mvala, Rayners, Titus, Sibisi
With just under an hour to kick-off, anticipation is high as South Africa seeks to make a strong statement in their final qualification match.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Nov 15, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Nigeria, Soccer
Benin Hold Nigeria to Draw, Eye AFCON Qualification Despite Libya’s Kigali Surprise
Benin’s head coach, Gernot Rohr, expressed pride in his team’s spirited performance against the Super Eagles after their 1-1 draw at Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny on Thursday night. The encounter was part of the matchday five fixtures in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.
The Cheetahs took an early lead through Mohamed Tijani in the 16th minute, setting up hopes for a historic victory. However, Victor Osimhen, ever the reliable talisman for Nigeria, salvaged a point for the Super Eagles with a clinical header from Moses Simon’s cross.
While the draw kept Benin in second place in Group C, it also highlighted the uphill task ahead. Benin now need to avoid losing by more than two goals in their final match against Libya while hoping Nigeria can deny Rwanda a victory in Uyo.
Reflecting on the result, Rohr revealed his tactical focus had been to avoid defeat at all costs. Speaking to Benin Web TV, he admitted, “The message was clear: if we win, we qualify. But above all, not to lose. We are holding on to second place with one more point than Rwanda, so a draw in our last game will suffice.”
Libya’s Kigali Surprise
The German tactician also expressed shock at Libya’s unexpected 2-1 victory over Rwanda at the Amahoro Stadium in Kigali, a venue where Nigeria could only manage a goalless draw in September.
“We were still surprised by Libya’s victory in Rwanda,” Rohr noted. “It’s not easy to win there at 1,600 meters altitude. Even Nigeria didn’t win there. But we stayed focused on our game and will prepare for what will obviously be a very heated final match.”
Benin on the Brink of History
The Cheetahs have missed the last two editions of the AFCON but are now in a strong position to make their fifth appearance in the prestigious competition. A calculated approach in their final group game against Libya could seal their ticket to Côte d’Ivoire, where the tournament will be held.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Nov 15, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Europe, International, Nigeria, Soccer
Ola Aina lit up the City Ground with a spectacular left-footed strike in Nottingham Forest’s emphatic 3-0 victory over West Ham United a few weeks ago. The Nigerian full-back’s curling effort past Lukasz Fabianski earned widespread praise and solidified his growing reputation in the Premier League.
After the game, the former Torino man’s confidence was on full display. Speaking about the goal, Aina revealed he knew the ball was destined for the net as soon as it left his boot. However, it was his post-match remarks in the dressing room that stirred some controversy. The Chelsea academy graduate was reportedly seen jokingly saying, “We sent the Hammers back to East London where they belong.”
While many fans appreciated his playful jab, former Chelsea youth coach Jody Morris cautioned Aina about the potential implications of such comments. Speaking on Rio Ferdinand Presents, Morris said:
> “I know Ola; he was a great kid and a big personality. But when you start talking about sending teams back to where they come from, there’s a line you shouldn’t cross.
> “You don’t want to limit someone’s personality—that’s who they are—but as a professional, you have to be careful. Ola is a physical specimen and a lovely footballer with so much in his locker. I’d like to see him impose himself even more on games.”
Morris, alongside Ferdinand, expressed delight at seeing Aina flourish in the Premier League after his years of development at Chelsea. With Aina’s contract at Nottingham Forest set to expire next summer, rumors of a potential move to AC Milan are already swirling.
For now, the Super Eagles star remains a crucial figure for Forest, having featured in all of their Premier League matches this season.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Nov 15, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Nigeria, Soccer
Nigeria Secure AFCON Spot with Gritty Draw Against Benin
Nigeria’s Super Eagles confirmed their place in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations with a hard-fought 1-1 draw against neighbors Benin Republic on Thursday night. The clash at the Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny was a tense affair, with both teams displaying moments of brilliance.
Benin struck first in the 16th minute through Mohamed Tijani, who headed in Junior Olaitan’s well-placed corner kick. For much of the game, the Cheetahs looked set to claim a famous win over their rivals. But Victor Osimhen, the Galatasaray superstar, had other plans.
With just nine minutes left on the clock, Osimhen salvaged a point for the Super Eagles with a powerful header, converting Moses Simon’s pinpoint cross. It marked Osimhen’s 23rd international goal in just 38 appearances, cementing his reputation as one of Africa’s finest strikers.
Breaking Down the Numbers
The draw showcased several standout performances, with key statistics highlighting the contributions of individual players:
Victor Osimhen: The Sharpshooter
Osimhen led the game in shots, recording two on target and one off. His decisive equalizer proved critical in Nigeria’s qualification campaign.
Ademola Lookman: Dribble King
Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman was the game’s top dribbler, completing two successful take-ons. No other player managed more than one.
Calvin Bassey: The Ball Magnet
Central defender Calvin Bassey was heavily involved, recording a game-high 103 touches. He also completed 76 passes, the most for Nigeria, with a 90% accuracy rate.
Wilfred Ndidi: The Midfield Maestro
Leicester City’s Wilfred Ndidi was a defensive stalwart, registering six defensive actions, three tackles, and four aerial duels—both team-highs. He also won a game-best ten duels and completed 69 passes at an impressive 90% accuracy.
Moses Simon: Super Sub
Despite playing only the second half, Simon delivered two key passes, including the assist for Osimhen’s equalizer.
Junior Olaitan: Creative yet Wasteful
Benin’s Junior Olaitan impressed with three key passes but also lost possession a game-high 21 times.
Defensive Grit and Tactical Battles
The Super Eagles had standout defensive moments, with Troost-Ekong and Onyemaechi also contributing solidly, though both were culpable for giving away possession 17 times. On Benin’s side, Hassane Imourane stood out defensively with two interceptions.
Nigeria’s place in Côte d’Ivoire 2025 is now assured, and the focus will shift to fine-tuning the squad for the tournament. For now, though, the Super Eagles can celebrate another successful qualification campaign.
