Tag Archives: CAF

NEWS, SPORT

2025 AFCON: Nigeria sets to face Tunisia, Uganda,Tanzania

Leave a comment

The Super Eagles of Nigeria are set to take on Tunisia, Uganda and Tanzania as the Final Draw for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), tagged Morocco 2025, was concluded following a star-studded ceremony at the Mohammed V National Theatre in Rabat on Monday, giving the 24 qualified teams their path to the trophy.

The teams were drawn into six groups each containing four sides ahead of the 21st December 2025 to 18th January 2026 finals tournament, that will be spread across six host cities and nine stadia in Morocco as Africa’s best chase the continent’s most coveted trophy.

The draw, which was broadcast in over 90 countries worldwide, was conducted with the assistance of African legends Serge Aurier, Aliou Cissé, Joseph Yobo and Mustapha Hadji.

#image_title

Hosts Morocco headline Group A and will take on Mali, Zambia and Comoros in what looks a hotly contested pool. Record seven-time winners Egypt face a trio of Southern African teams in Group B in the form of last year’s bronze medalists South Africa, Angola and Zimbabwe.

In Group C, Nigeria will lock horns with Tunisia and the East African duo of Uganda and Tanzania, who will be CAF AFCON co-hosts in 2027.

The 2021 champions Senegal go up against Democratic Republic of Congo, Benin and Botswana in Group D. Algeria, winners in 2019, take on Burkina Faso, Equatorial Guinea and Sudan in an interesting Group E.

And defending champions Cote d’Ivoire face old rivals and five-time winners Cameroon, Gabon and Mozambique in Group F as they look to claim back-to-back titles.

The top two teams in each pool will advance to the round of 16, along with the four best Third-placed sides. Morocco is hosting the CAF AFCON for the first time since 1988

CAF AFRICA CUP OF NATIONS, MOROCCO 2025 

GROUP A: Morocco, Mali, Zambia, Comoros

GROUP B: Egypt, South Africa, Angola, Zimbabwe

GROUP C: Nigeria, Tunisia, Uganda, Tanzania

GROUP D: Senegal, DR Congo, Benin, Botswana

GROUP E: Algeria, Burkina Faso, Equatorial Guinea, Sudan

GROUP F: Cote d’Ivoire, Cameroon, Gabon, Mozambique.

#image_title
NEWS, SPORT

Aliou Cissé: From Heartbreak to Glory – The Journey of Senegal’s AFCON Mastermind

Leave a comment

From a losing finalist in 2002 to a victorious strategist at the 2021 edition of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Aliou Cissé’s story with Africa’s most prestigious competition is a true tale of perseverance and success.

The former Senegal captain and coach shares his unreserved view of this key event and analyses the ambitions of the Lions of Teranga for the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON 2025 in Morocco.

You have been designated to attend the draw for the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON 2025. How do you feel about this responsibility? 


Aliou Cissé: It’s an experience that I’ve already had in other contexts, but which always requires special preparation. It’s not our daily life as coaches or players. We are more comfortable on the pitch, but with clear instructions and rehearsals, it becomes natural. Like the players before a match, we rehearse our gestures to understand the steps we must take.

Why is the draw so crucial for the competition?
It’s a first for me to attend a draw, because I’ve never been there before, neither for the AFCON nor for the World Cup. However, this exercise symbolizes the beginning of an adventure for each team, with major strategic stakes.

Senegal is now one of the powers of African football. What is your analysis of them?
Senegal needs no introduction. We are among the best teams on the continent, with a place in the top 20 in the world according to the FIFA ranking.

This progression reflects the experience of our players, some of whom have played in four or five AFCONs, as well as two World Cups. We also have a very ambitious group of young people.
Since our historic victory in 2022, the objective has been clear: to aim for the title every time we participate.

The TotalEnergies CAF AFCON will be held in Morocco. How do you perceive this edition?
Morocco offers modern infrastructure and a high-level organization. It will be a special TotalEnergies CAF AFCON. African football is constantly evolving, and I hope that this edition will mark a historic turning point.

You have lived through over two decades of the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON, first as a player and then a coach. How do you see its evolution?
The tournament has progressed on all levels: infrastructure, team preparation and coach training. With the increase from 16 to 24 teams, it has become even more competitive and is followed internationally. It is a celebration for all of Africa, and players are willing to leave their clubs in the middle of the season to participate.

What are the key elements to win an AFCON?
It takes a lot of work, patience and a bit of luck. The players have to be at the top of their game at the right time and have a competitive mentality until the end. Conditions can be demanding in Africa, but perseverance always pays off in the end.

Any advice for young coaches?
Be ready, organized, and adaptable. African football has its particularities, and you have to know how to adjust. But it’s a unique and deeply enriching experience.

CAF/Trendznigeria

NEWS, SPORT

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

Leave a comment

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.

SPORT

Ademola Lookman Wins CAF Men’s Best Player Award

Leave a comment

Super Eagles of Nigeria and Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman has etched his name in African football history by clinching the prestigious CAF Men’s Player of the Year award for 2024, as Africa’s best performers for the year were honoured at a glamorous ceremony held in Marrakech, Morocco.

Lookman’s exceptional performances for both club and country throughout the past year propelled him to the forefront of African football. His electrifying pace, clinical finishing, and creative playmaking abilities have made him a force to be reckoned with.

The 27-year-old’s standout moments, including a sensational hat-trick in the UEFA Europa League final, solidified his position as one of the continent’s most talented players. This victory marks a significant achievement for Nigerian football, as Lookman becomes the second consecutive Nigerian to win the award after Victor Osimhen.

It is the first time Nigeria has had back-to-back winners in the Men’s award since Nwankwo Kanu (1996) and Victor Ikpeba (1997) were honoured almost three decades ago.

As Lookman continues to shine on the international stage, his impact on African football is undeniable. His dedication, hard work, and exceptional skills have inspired a generation of young players across the continent. With his star on the rise, the future looks bright for both Lookman and Nigerian football.

https://trendznigeria.com/ademola-lookman-clinches-2024-africa-player-of-the-year-award-at-caf-awards-in-marrakech/

The glittering ceremony was attended by football royalty from the continent and beyond in a celebration of the incredible growth and development of the game in Africa, and the astonishing strides that have been made in men’s and women’s football in recent years.

NEWS, SPORT

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

Leave a comment

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.

NEWS, SPORT

Super Eagles Threaten Boycott After 12-Hour Ordeal at Libyan Airport

Leave a comment

Stranded Without Food or Water, Team Captain Calls for Nigerian Government Intervention

The Nigerian national football team, the Super Eagles, has announced plans to boycott their upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Libya after being stranded for over 12 hours at Al Abraq International Airport in Libya. The players endured the ordeal on Sunday night after their flight was unexpectedly diverted from Benghazi, their original destination.

Forced Diversion and Stranded Overnight

The squad, traveling for their Tuesday match, was forced to land at Al Abraq International Airport, which is primarily used for hajj operations. The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) confirmed that the plane was diverted at the last minute, just as it was preparing to descend into Benghazi.

According to NFF, the Libyan authorities offered no explanation for the change and did not provide transportation or reception for the players, leaving them stranded overnight.

Super Eagles Captain Speaks Out on Social Media

Team captain William Troost-Ekong, visibly frustrated by the situation, took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) early Monday morning to condemn the treatment and announce the players’ intention to forgo the qualifier match.

“12+ hours in an abandoned airport in Libya after our plane was diverted whilst descending. The Libyan government rescinded our approved landing in Benghazi with no reason,” Troost-Ekong wrote.

The former Watford defender criticized the conditions, saying: “They’ve locked the airport gates and left us without phone connection, food, or drink. All to play mind games.” Troost-Ekong also revealed that their Tunisian pilot struggled to secure rest accommodations and was forced to sleep on the plane. “He could sleep there, but NO NIGERIAN crew members allowed,” he added.

The captain further expressed concerns about the team’s safety, stating: “Even if they decide to allow this kind of behaviour, let them have the points. We will not accept to travel anywhere by road here, even with security—it’s not safe. We can only imagine what the hotel or food would be like given to us IF we continued.”

NFF Releases Statement Amid Ongoing Crisis

In a formal statement, the NFF criticized the Libyan Football Federation’s failure to meet basic hosting obligations. “Fatigued players and officials have remained nonplussed as the host Libyan Football Federation failed to send any reception team or even vehicles to take the delegation members from the airport to their hotel, said to be three hours away in Benghazi.”

The federation added that they had arranged alternative transport, but those plans fell apart following the sudden diversion of the aircraft. The NFF confirmed that players have resolved not to play the match, while officials are now working to arrange a flight back to Nigeria.

AFCON Campaign in Jeopardy

The Super Eagles were coming off a 1-0 victory over Libya in Uyo, with Lazio midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru scoring the decisive goal late in the game. However, the unexpected airport fiasco and the deteriorating conditions have cast doubt over the second leg of the encounter.

The NFF appealed to the Nigerian government for immediate intervention, urging the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to investigate the matter and take appropriate action. Troost-Ekong underscored the importance of fair play, saying, “We respect our opponents when they are our guests in Nigeria. Mistakes happen, but these things on purpose have nothing to do with international football.”

What Comes Next?

With players refusing to participate under unsafe conditions, Nigeria’s path to the 2025 AFCON could be affected. CAF has yet to respond to the incident, and the future of the match remains uncertain. If the Super Eagles make good on their boycott, Libya could be awarded the points, complicating Nigeria’s qualification campaign.

The standoff raises larger questions about player welfare and travel conditions in African football, putting pressure on CAF to address the issue swiftly and ensure fair treatment for all teams.

SPORT

TotalEnergies CAF CHAN 2024 Draw to be conducted on Wednesday

Leave a comment

The TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship 2024 Qualifiers draw has been scheduled on Tuesday, 08 October 2024.

The draw will be conducted at 14h00 Cairo time (11h00 GMT).
Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania will host the tournament between 01 – 28 February 2025.
Ahead of the finals, two rounds of qulifiers will take place on a home and away basis.

The first round of qualifiers will be played on the weekend of 25 – 27 October and 01 – 03 November 2024, with the second round confirmed for 20 – 22 December and 27 – 29 December 2024.

Since its 2009 inception, the TotalEnergies CHAN tournament has been an exceptional platform of showcasing the world-class talent and quality of African football as well as its ever-evoling landscape.

CAF

c

NEWS, SPORT

CAF Announces New Media and TV Rights Agreements for 2024/25 CAF Interclub Season

Leave a comment

The Confédération Africaine de Football (“CAF”) today announced new media rights and TV agreements for the 2024/25 CAF Interclub Competitions following a successful bidding process for the pay-TV (English) and Free to Air (all languages) in Sub-Saharan African territory.

The rights include African football’s premium Club competitions: TotalEnergies CAF Champions League 2024/25, TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup 2024/25, CAF Women’s Champions League 2024 and TotalEnergies CAF Super Cup 2025.  

CAF reached agreements with SuperSport International for the PayTV rights (in English) South African Broadcasting Corporation (“SABC”) and Azam Media for the Free to Air (“FTA”) rights. 

The CAF President, Dr Patrice Motsepe said: “The exponential growth and global competitiveness of football in Africa has resulted in substantial interest from major African and international broadcasters in African Football. SuperSport, SABC and Azam Media have been participating competitively in the CAF Media Rights bids. CAF welcomes them all as partners, joining a number of CAF’s Media Rights holders. We are committed to ensuring that CAF’s Competitions including its Broadcast products are world-class.”

The TV Audiences during the 2023/24 TotalEnergies CAF Champions League grew by over 25% in North Africa while East Africa and Southern Africa saw growth of over 40% in both TV Audiences and digital engagement.

NEWS, SPORT

Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania Sets To Co-Hosts CHAN 2025

Leave a comment

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially announced Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania as the co-hosts for the 2025 TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN). This prestigious tournament, exclusively featuring players from domestic leagues across Africa, will take place from February 1st to 28th, 2025.

CAF has yet to finalize the host stadiums and training facilities for the competition, but further details are expected soon. The tournament will mark a significant milestone as it will be the first time three East African nations jointly host CHAN, showcasing the region’s growing prominence in African football.

Qualification Path and Tournament Format

The journey to the 2025 CHAN will commence with the first round of qualifiers set for the weekends of October 25-27 and November 1-3, 2024. The second round of qualifiers will follow on December 20-22 and December 27-29, 2024.

The tournament will feature 19 teams, an increase from previous editions. The qualification slots have been distributed among CAF’s regional zones as follows:

–West African Football Union (WAFU) Zones A and B: Three teams each

– Union of North African Football (UNAF): Three teams

– Central African Football Federations’ Union (UNIFFAC): Three teams

– Council of Southern Africa Football Associations (COSAFA): Three teams

– Council for East and Central Africa Football Associations (CECAFA): Three teams, with the hosts receiving an additional slot

The CECAFA zone, which includes Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, will have one more team qualifying alongside the three co-hosts, making it a unique opportunity for East African football to shine on the continental stage. While the host nations are automatically qualified, they will also participate in the qualifiers, and the CECAFA team with the best performance will secure an additional spot in the final tournament.

This expansion to 19 teams provides a broader representation across Africa, further enhancing the competitive nature of the CHAN tournament.

A Historic Event for East Africa

The decision to host the tournament across three countries highlights CAF’s confidence in the East African region’s footballing infrastructure and ability to stage a high-profile event. This will be a landmark occasion for Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, offering a platform to develop local talent and boost the region’s football reputation.

As preparations begin, excitement is already building across the continent as teams gear up for qualification, with anticipation of an unforgettable tournament in February 2025.

CAF