Tag Archives: AFCON

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CAF and CANAL+ International Forge Strategic Partnership to Train Young African Sports Journalists

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New Collaboration Focuses on Developing Future Reporters Under the CAF African Schools Football Championship

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) and CANAL+ International have formalized a groundbreaking partnership today aimed at cultivating young African talent in the field of sports journalism.
The strategic collaboration, launched under the auspices of CANAL+ University, will develop specialized training programs for aspiring sports reporters across the continent.

The agreement was signed by CAF Secretary General Véron Mosengo-Omba and Jacques Dupuy, President of CANAL+ International, marking a significant milestone in the two organizations’ commitment to advancing sports media in Africa.

At the heart of the partnership is the goal of identifying and nurturing the next generation of sports journalists, with a particular focus on young talents involved in the CAF African Schools Football Championship.
Through this collaboration, the organizations hope to provide hands-on training, mentorship, and media exposure to promising young reporters, helping them build careers in sports journalism.

Training Programs for the Next Generation of Reporters

Under the new partnership, CANAL+ University will work closely with CAF to create tailored training programs for young Africans interested in sports reporting. These programs will include workshops, on-the-job training during CAF events, and other educational initiatives designed to hone the skills of future sports journalists.

Véron Mosengo-Omba, CAF Secretary General, emphasized the importance of such a partnership in shaping the future of African sports media:

“By developing training programs for young reporters, we are not only improving the coverage of African football but also empowering the next generation to tell their own stories. This initiative is key to ensuring African voices are heard globally in the world of sports journalism.”

A Long-Term Vision for African Sports Journalism

The partnership aims to ensure that talented young African journalists have access to world-class resources and industry expertise, helping to elevate the quality and diversity of sports reporting on the continent. Jacques Dupuy, President of CANAL+ International, highlighted the long-term vision of the collaboration:

“We are excited to join forces with CAF to uncover and support the development of young, talented reporters. This partnership is about much more than just training. It’s about creating a sustainable future for African sports journalism and allowing emerging voices to shine on the global stage.”

The program will kick off in conjunction with the CAF African Schools Football Championship, providing a platform for young journalists to engage with the tournament, gain practical experience, and develop a deeper understanding of sports media.

With this partnership, CAF and CANAL+ International aim to provide lasting opportunities for young Africans to contribute to the growth and visibility of African football, while helping to shape the future of sports journalism in the region.

NEWS, SPORT

CAF Urges Nigeria to Play AFCON Qualifier in Libya Despite Safety Concerns

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Super Eagles Stranded in Libya Amid Travel Chaos and Security Issues

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has urged Nigeria to proceed with their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Libya in Benghazi, despite mounting safety concerns and logistical challenges that have left the Super Eagles stranded.

Mid-Air Flight Diversion Leaves Nigerian Team Stranded

The Nigerian national football team was en route to Benghazi for Tuesday’s crucial Group D fixture when their flight was unexpectedly diverted to Al Abraq Airport, a small regional facility typically used for hajj operations. The diversion disrupted their travel plans, leaving the team without immediate support from local authorities or the Libyan Football Federation.

Adding to the chaos, the Libyan Federation failed to provide transportation to Benghazi, further complicating the Nigerian contingent’s efforts to reach the match venue. Without meaningful assistance, the stranded players only gained access to basic supplies and internet connectivity early Monday morning.

Super Eagles Withdraw Over Security Concerns

In response to the precarious situation, the Super Eagles, led by captain William Troost-Ekong, made the decision to withdraw from the match. Troost-Ekong emphasized that the decision was driven by concerns for the players’ safety.

“The players made this resolution because of the threat to their lives and hostilities of the host country since they landed,” Troost-Ekong said.

Nigeria Rejects CAF’s Plea to Continue Match

Nigeria’s Sports Minister, John Owan Enoh, confirmed on Monday that CAF President Patrice Motsepe and Secretary-General Veron Mosengo-Omba had urged Nigeria to proceed with the match. However, Enoh firmly rejected the request, prioritizing the safety of the team over the competition.

“This morning, I was on a conference call with the CAF President and Secretary-General,” Enoh explained. “While their concern seems to be focused on ensuring Nigeria’s participation in tomorrow’s match, I made it clear that the priority of the Nigerian government is the safety and safe return of the team.”

Enoh also criticized the Libyan Football Federation’s handling of the situation, calling for consequences.

“There must be serious repercussions for the Libyan federation for this unspeakable behavior. It is unacceptable to insist on playing under such conditions.”

Impact on Group D Standings

Despite the turmoil, Nigeria currently tops Group D with seven points from three matches, while Libya sits at the bottom with just one point. Whether the match will be rescheduled or awarded to Nigeria by forfeit remains uncertain.

This incident raises fresh questions about the safety and organization of international fixtures in conflict-prone areas, putting pressure on CAF to reconsider match venues in the future.

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Nottingham Forest Set to Open Contract Talks with Ola Aina

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Super Eagles star impresses in return to Premier League

Nottingham Forest are reportedly preparing to initiate contract negotiations with Nigerian international Ola Aina following his outstanding return to English football. The defender, who has quickly become a key figure for both his club and country, is in line for a contract extension as Forest look to secure his long-term future.

Initial Signing and Impact at Forest

Aina joined Nottingham Forest from Serie A side Torino FC in the 2022-23 transfer window, initially signing a one-year deal with the Premier League outfit. His impressive performances saw the club extend his contract through to 2025, but recent reports suggest Forest are eager to extend his stay beyond that period, underscoring the defender’s importance to the squad.

Key Role for Club and Country

Although Aina has contributed just one goal and one assist for Nottingham Forest, his defensive prowess and versatility have been crucial for the team. His ability to solidify the defense while contributing to attacking plays has made him a standout performer for the Reds this season.

Under the guidance of manager Nuno Espirito Santo, Aina has become a regular starter, featuring in all six of Forest’s Premier League matches so far. One of his standout moments came during a strong performance at Anfield against Liverpool, where he earned widespread praise for his reliability and skill on the ball.

Nigeria’s AFCON Journey and International Impact

Photo credit: Tobi Sangotola

Aina’s performances have also been vital on the international stage. He played a significant role in Nigeria’s journey to the final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, where his versatility and consistent displays earned him accolades. In addition, Aina has been a key figure in Nigeria’s 2025 AFCON qualifiers under head coach Augustine Eguavoen, playing the full 90 minutes in key matches against Benin Republic and Rwanda.

Forest’s Long-Term Plans for Aina

Given his contributions at both club and international levels, Nottingham Forest is eager to keep Aina as a key part of their future. The proposed contract extension signals the club’s belief in the defender’s abilities and their desire to maintain stability within the squad. As negotiations are set to begin, Forest fans will be hoping that Aina’s stay at the City Ground is extended well beyond 2025.

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Libya Announces 28-Man Squad for Crucial AFCON Qualifiers Against Nigeria

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Al-Hadiri’s selection blends experience and emerging talents in bid to revive Libya’s AFCON hopes.

Libya’s national football team head coach, Nasser Al-Hadiri, has unveiled a 28-man squad for the pivotal Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 qualifying double-header against the Super Eagles of Nigeria. With Libya currently at the bottom of Group D, these two matches are essential for the Mediterranean Knights to keep their qualification hopes alive.

Strategic Selection

Al-Hadiri’s squad is a balanced mix of seasoned veterans and up-and-coming players, underlining his tactical approach to these crucial fixtures. Among the notable inclusions are Al-Ittihad’s dynamic midfielder Abdul-Miser Abu Shaiba, Al-Nasr’s playmaker Mohammed Al-Tabbal, and Barcelona B team prospect Ahmed Al-Masmari, whose international experience could prove vital against the formidable Nigerian team.

The squad reflects Al-Hadiri’s intent to inject fresh energy into the team while leaning on the experience of stalwarts like Faisal Al-Badri and Nour Al-Din Al-Qalib. These matches could be a turning point for Libya as they look to make a strong comeback after a disappointing start to their qualifying campaign.

The Double-Header Fixtures

The first leg of the qualifier will take place at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, Nigeria, on Friday, October 11, with the return fixture scheduled four days later in Benina, Libya. Sitting at the bottom of Group D with just one point from two matches, Libya must secure positive results in both games to revive their chances of making it to the 2025 AFCON in Ivory Coast.

Full Libya Squad for Nigeria Double-Header:

– Goalkeepers:

Murad Al-Wahishi (Al-Ahly Benghazi)

Abdul Jawad Rizq (Al-Nasr)

Mohammed Ayyad (Abu Salim)

– Defenders:

Ahmed Ayyad (Al-Tahadi)

Ali Youssef (Al-Afriqi Al-Tunisi)

Ahmed Saleh (Al-Akhdar)

Ahmed Al-Tarbi (Al-Ahly Tripoli)

Magdy Mustafa Artiba (Al-Akhdar)

Sobhi Al-Mabrouk Al-Dawi (Al-Ittihad)

Mahdi Al-Kut (Al-Akhdar)

Mohammed Al-Shtiwi (Al-Hilal)

– Midfielders:

Sand Bin Ali (Al-Nasr)

Al-Bahlol Abu Sahmain (Al-Ahly Benghazi)

Badr Hassan (Al-Nasr)

Suhaib Bin Suleiman (Al-Ahly Benghazi)

Faisal Al-Badri (Al-Hilal)

Muhannad Mustafa Al-Mabrouk (Al-Madina)

Osama Al-Sharimi (Al-Suwaihli)

Omar Al-Khoja (Al-Suwaihli)

Nour Al-Din Al-Qalib (Al-Ahly Tripoli)

– Forwards:

Ahmed Saad (Al-Hilal)

Mohammed Al-Tabbal (Al-Nasr)

Fadel Salama (Al-Ahly Benghazi)

Ahmed Al-Masmari (Barcelona B, Spain)

Ezz El-Din Al-Mariami (Al Hilal)

Moaz Issa (Al-Ittihad)

Abdul-Miser Abu Shaiba (Al-Ittihad)

Libya’s AFCON Challenge

With a single point from their first two games, Libya’s road to the AFCON tournament looks steep, but not impossible. Victory over Nigeria, who are one of the group favorites, could dramatically alter the group’s dynamics and put Libya back in contention for a spot in the tournament. Coach Al-Hadiri and his squad are expected to approach the matches with intensity and determination, knowing that these games may define their path toward qualification.

The Super Eagles, with their own talented squad, present a tough challenge, but Libya will be banking on their tactical preparation and team spirit to secure the necessary results.