by Emmanuel Atanga | Dec 16, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Nigeria, Soccer
Nigeria’s U-17 women displayed resilience and determination as they held on to a three-goal lead to secure a narrow 3-2 victory over Côte d’Ivoire in a pulsating encounter. The match, filled with end-to-end action, saw Nigeria dominate the early stages with a commanding lead.
However, the Ivorian side refused to back down, staging a spirited comeback with two quick goals to set up a nervy finale. Despite the late pressure, the Nigerian defense stood firm, ensuring they clinched all three points from the hard-fought battle.
The result highlights Nigeria’s fighting spirit as they continue their campaign, while Côte d’Ivoire will take positives from their determined performance in the second half.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Dec 16, 2024 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Eddie Nketiah finally made his mark in the English Premier League for Crystal Palace during their impressive 3-1 victory over Brighton and Hove Albion at the Amex Stadium. The English-Ghanaian forward, who joined Palace from Arsenal during the summer transfer window, had struggled to make an impact in South London but delivered his first assist in style.
Coming on as a substitute in the 60th minute for Jean-Philippe Mateta, Nketiah played a key role in setting up Ismaila Sarr for Palace’s third goal. The Senegalese forward calmly finished to seal the win, marking a significant moment for Nketiah as he looks to gain momentum in his new club.
The game started brightly for the Eagles, with Chelsea loanee Trevoh Chalobah opening the scoring in the 27th minute. Sarr doubled their lead six minutes later before completing his brace late in the match, courtesy of Nketiah’s assist. Brighton managed a consolation goal through an unfortunate own goal by Palace captain Marc Guehi.
The victory solidifies Crystal Palace’s position in the mid-table as they aim to push further up the standings. For Nketiah, this performance could be the turning point in his journey with the Eagles.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Dec 16, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) is reportedly planning to dissolve the entire backroom staff of the Black Stars following the team’s failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). This marks the first time in two decades that Ghana’s senior national team has missed out on the tournament, a bitter disappointment for a nation with a rich football history.
Led by head coach Otto Addo, the technical team could not secure a top-two finish in Group F. The Black Stars ended the qualifiers with three wins, three draws, and six points, leaving them at the bottom of their group.
The GFA has yet to make a final decision on Otto Addo’s future, but sources indicate that the entire backroom staff is likely to be disbanded. Last month, a comprehensive review of the technical reports from the qualifiers was conducted, and the association is said to be seeking external consultation before making any announcements about Addo’s position.
Despite this setback, the Black Stars will shift focus to the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, where they currently sit second in Group I with nine points, tied with Comoros. Ghana will face Chad and Madagascar in their final group games next year, with hopes of bouncing back from their recent struggles.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Dec 16, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Nigeria, Soccer
In a scintillating encounter between Nigeria’s U-17 women and their Ivorian counterparts, the match has turned into a goal-scoring fiesta. Both sides have unleashed their attacking prowess, with goals flowing freely from each team. The tension is high as fans eagerly await to see who will emerge victorious in this exciting showdown. With each minute bringing fresh action and drama, this game is one for the history books.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Dec 16, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Europe, International, Soccer
Achraf Hakimi has spoken out after reports surfaced suggesting he is the frontrunner to be named the 2024 African Footballer of the Year. The Paris Saint-Germain right-back is reportedly set to beat Nigeria’s Ademola Lookman, among other top contenders, to the prestigious award.
According to widespread reports in the French, Moroccan, and Egyptian media, Hakimi is believed to be in pole position for the coveted title, which will be presented on Monday, December 16, in his home country, Morocco. Al Ahly TV further fueled the speculation, revealing that Hakimi is expected to fly to Marrakech in a private jet after PSG’s Ligue 1 match against Lyon, with club president Nasser Al Khelaïfi accompanying him.
Hakimi has had a stellar year, playing a key role in PSG’s UEFA Champions League semifinal run and helping Morocco secure a historic bronze medal at the 2024 Olympic Games. The 26-year-old also celebrated domestic triumphs, winning Ligue 1, the Coupe de France, and the Trophée des Champions with PSG.
Addressing the rumors during an appearance on Téléfoot, Hakimi expressed his hope to win the African Footballer of the Year award. “This nomination rewards all the work I have done since I was little. I hope to win this important trophy in my career,” he said.
Despite Hakimi’s strong claims, Lookman is another favorite, having enjoyed a standout season with Atalanta and impressing at the Africa Cup of Nations, where he earned a spot in the Team of the Tournament. Lookman aspires to join the ranks of African football legends like Rashidi Yekini, Emmanuel Amuneke, Nwankwo Kanu, Victor Ikpeba, and Victor Osimhen, all of whom have won the prestigious honor.
With the award ceremony just around the corner, the battle between Hakimi and Lookman is one of the most exciting in recent years.
