33.3 C
Lagos
Wednesday, March 25, 2026
type here...
Home Blog Page 84

Dahane Beida to call 2023 AFCON final

Editor
-
0
Dahane Beida to call 2023 AFCON final

Mauritanian referee will be the man-in-the-middle for the ultimate match of the 2023 AFCON

 

Photo credit: CAFonline

 

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has announced that Dahane Beida from Mauritania will be the center referee for the final of the 2023 TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations, set to be played in Abidjan on Sunday.

The highly anticipated final will see hosts Cote d’Ivoire face off against Nigeria at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire, on February 11, 2024.

Dahane Beida, aged 32, will be the on-pitch referee for this crucial match, marking his third appearance at this year’s TotalEnergies CAF AFCON.

Previously, he officiated the match between Egypt and Mozambique, which ended in a 2-2 draw during the group stage, as well as the Round of 16 clash where Angola secured a 3-0 victory over Namibia.

Emiliano Dos Santos from Angola and Diana Chicotesha from Zambia will assist Dahane Beida.
Morocco’s Bouchra Karboubi will serve as the fourth official.

 

The Video Assistant Referee (VAR) role will be taken up by Mahmoud Ashour from Egypt, with Rivet Maria Pakuita from Mauritius as the Assistant VAR.

 

Beida’s extensive refereeing experience includes officiating matches in various prestigious competitions, such as the U17 World Cup in New Zealand last year, as well as the second leg of the final of the TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup 2022/23 between USM Alger and Young Africans in Algiers.

 

He has also officiated in the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League, CAF TotalEnergies Confederation Cup, and the African Football League.

 

Additionally, he played a significant role in last year’s African Nations Championship in Algeria.

 

Both Nigeria and Cote d’Ivoire are vying for glory, with Nigeria aiming to secure their fourth title and Cote d’Ivoire eyeing their third championship victory.

 

‘We wanted to finish well’

Editor
-
0
‘We wanted to finish well’

Desabre to build on Leopards’ AFCON experience

 

 

Despite being unable to clinch a bronze medal, Democratic Republic of Congo coach Sabastian Desabre says there are a lot of positives to take from the Leopard’s showing in the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Cote d’Ivoire 2023.

 

DR Congo narrowly missed the bronze medal after a goalless draw in the 3rd place playoff, which concluded with a disappointing 6-5 loss to South Africa in Abidjan on Saturday, 10 February.

 

“We wanted to finish the competition well, but this does not affect our beautiful competition during this AFCON and what the players gave during these last few weeks. We are not third but fourth because we couldn’t finish the chances we created,” said Desabre.

 

“My takeaway from today is that when we look at the boys’ play, we can see that they give 100% even when they are tired. With this fighting spirit on the pitch, we can get things done. We are delighted with how we have performed at this AFCON. This is a team that was not there in the previous edition so that we can be proud of progress”, concluded the coach.

 

Broos heaps praise on his players

Editor
-
0
Broos heaps praise on his players

Aftermath of Bafana Bafana AFCON bronze medal finish

 

 

Photo credit: CAFonline

Coach Hugo Broos was full of praise for his players after their hard-fought 3rd place finish in the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Cote d’Ivoire 2023 courtesy of a 6-5 penalty shoot-out win that came after a 0-0 draw, CAFonline reports.

 

With very few chances given to his squad, Broos’ charges were impressive during their stay in Cote d’Ivoire, where they dismantled African football heavyweights en route to a third-place finish.

 

After clinching the third-place finish in Abidjan, Broos showered his squad with praises, making a special mention of the players on the bench who rallied the on-field players.

 

“After the Nigeria match, I said that I was proud of this team, and today, people can see why I am proud. We were not fresh, but when you see the mentality in that group, it is impressive,” said the delighted coach.

 

“The boys did very well. They showed great mentality. They tried to do what I asked, and I understood that it was difficult. It shows that if we have problems, we can count on those on the bench. I was satisfied with the players on the pitch, but I was even more satisfied with those on the pitch. They were encouraging them and pushing them. From this, you know that you have 23 guys who want one thing: winning,” concluded the coach.

 

The TotalEnergies CAF AFCON Cote d’Ivoire 2024 concludes on Sunday, 11 February 2024 with an African classic between hosts Cote d’Ivoire and Nigeria.

 

South Africa captures AFCON bronze

Editor
-
0
South Africa captures AFCON bronze

After a momentous shootout victory against hard-fighting DR Congo

 

Photo credit: CAFonline

 

CAFonline reports that South Africa claimed the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations third-place play-off on Saturday, beating DR Congo 6-5 on penalties after a goalless 120 minutes.

 

It hands Bafana Bafana only their second-ever AFCON bronze medal and first since 2000. South Africa triumphed after a dramatic shootout in Abidjan.

 

Both sides rang the changes following exhausting semi-final defeats. The first half proved cagey, with clear chances lacking for either team.

 

DR Congo looked livelier after the break as Simon Banza and Grady Diangana threatened. But wayward finishing cost them dearly.

 

Bafana Bafana also struggled to create openings until the latter stages. Substitute Mihlali Mayambela almost won it late on but fired over.

With penalties looming, South Africa held their nerve. After 11 perfect spot-kicks, DR Congo’s Chancel Mbemba crucially missed to hand Bafana Bafana bronze.

 

The shootout relief capped South Africa’s AFCON recovery after a poor start. Coach Hugo Broos has molded an exciting young team brimming with potential.

 

DR Congo will rue missed opportunities but can also reflect proudly on reaching the last four. Their squad boasts even brighter things ahead.

 

Ultimately, South Africa triumphed in seizing a rare moment of AFCON glory. Their first medal since 2000 represents a significant milestone for Broos’ youthful side.

 

This shootout success should be only the start for Bafana Bafana’s talents. With bronze claimed, South Africa can look to build a legacy after progress in Cote d’Ivoire.

 

MATCH FACTS

 

  • South Africa finished on the podium of an Africa Cup of Nations for the fourth time in their history, after 1996 (champion), 1998 (finalist) and 2000 (third). Bafana Bafana has conceded just three goals in seven games at this 2023 AFCON, conceding fewer goals in a single edition only in their first appearance in 1996 (2 in 6 matches).

 

  • This is the second time DR Congo has finished fourth in an Africa Cup of Nations, after 1972. The Leopards finished third in their last two appearances at this competition stage, winning on penalty shootouts in 1998 and 2015.

 

  • South Africa is the first nation to play three consecutive penalty shootouts in the history of the Africa Cup of Nations. Bafana Bafana has won three of their five penalty shootouts at the AFCON, including two in the third-place game (v Tunisia in 2000 and v DR Congo today).

 

  • South Africa has completed 87.6% of its passes against DR Congo, its highest percentage in an Africa Cup of Nations game since 2010.

 

  • Simon Banza of DR Congo has recorded 12 touches in South Africa’s box, with only Mostafa Mohamed having a higher tally in a single game during this edition of the Africa Cup of Nations (15 v Cabo Verde in the group stage).

 

Nigeria Super Eagles: Rising from Ashes

Editor
-
0
Nigeria Super Eagles: Rising from Ashes

Super Eagles’ Journey to AFCON Glory, a Cinderella Story Unfolds in the AFCON Finals in the Heart of Africa

 

Photo credit: CAFonline

 

By Paul Okoku

 

In the unfolding drama of the AFCON finals on Sunday, the Super Eagles stand as a living testament to the power of perseverance, resilience, and the enduring allure of football. As they prepare to take the field once more, the world watches in awe, eager to witness the next chapter of this captivating Cinderella story.

 

In the heart of the African continent, amidst the crowd’s roar and the game’s enthusiasm, a story of resilience and determination unfolds. It is the story of the Super Eagles of Nigeria, a team forged in the crucible of competition, rising to meet the challenges that lie before them.

 

The team united in purpose and vision, played with heart and determination, inspiring a nation with its indomitable spirit.

 

As they prepare to face Ivory Coast in the finals, the Super Eagles bear the hopes and dreams of millions of Nigerians, home and abroad. They know that the journey is far from over and that the final chapter of their Cinderella story is yet to be written.

 

So, as they take to the field against Ivory Coast, let us join together in celebration and support, cheering them on as they chase victory with unwavering zeal and zest. For in their journey, we find inspiration, reminding us that with perseverance and courage, anything is possible.

 

But who truly embodies the Cinderella archetype in this narrative? Is it the Super Eagles who struggled to find the back of the net during the group stage, only to rise from the ashes and defy expectations? Or perhaps it is the Ivory Coast team, rejuvenated by their journey as one of the best losing teams, now poised to challenge the Super Eagles in the ultimate showdown.

 

Forty years ago, my team and I stood where you stand today, on the brink of a monumental battle in the finals. We walked onto that field with hope and determination, ready to seize victory. Yet, fate had other plans, and we tasted the bitterness of defeat at the hands of Cameroon.

 

But on Sunday, as you prepare to tread the same hallowed ground, I urge you to heed history lessons. Let not the shadows of past defeats cloud your vision or dampen your spirit. Instead, let them remind you of the strength within you, waiting to be unleashed.

 

Brace yourselves, my dear Super Eagles, for you stand at the threshold of greatness. With each step you take and each pass you make, remember the legacy you carry – the hopes and dreams of a nation that believes in you.

 

Never allow the history of defeat to repeat itself. Rise above the echoes of the past and forge a new destiny on that field. With courage in your hearts and fire in your eyes, go forth and conquer. This is your moment, your time to shine. Seize it with all your might, and let the world witness the triumph of the indomitable spirit of the Super Eagles.

 

NEVER AGAIN shall we falter, for victory awaits those who dare to dream and dare to fight! Let your dreams come true!!!

 

Leaving on a positive note-Sébastien Desabre

Editor
-
0
Leaving on a positive note-Sébastien Desabre

The disappointment is still present, but that does not prevent the Congolese from going for a bronze medal on Saturday

 

Credit CAFonline
The disappointment is still present, but that does not prevent the Congolese from going for a bronze medal on Saturday during the classification match against South Africa at the Félix Houphouët Boigny stadium in Abidjan, CAFonline reports.
Homecoming in perspective for the Congolese coach who returns to the Félix Houphouët Boigny stadium: “My most beautiful memory in this enclosure is the semi-final against l’Africa that we won with ASEC Mimosas, during the Coupe de Côte d’Ivoire, about ten years ago. I won’t hide it from you. I can’t wait to be there and see the improved renovations,” said the French tactician.
For Sébastien Desabre, this minor final will also be an opportunity to leave the competition favorably: “We have to go on a positive note. We have come a long way, shown good things, and did not want a grain of sand to derail the machine. We will give everything to bring this medal home and present it to the Congolese people passionate about football.
At a pre-match press conference, Sébastien Desabre wanted to take stock: “We still have room for improvement. The results will be positive, and we will do everything in place to improve this national team for the years to come.”
Before closing this book full of memories of CAN, Sébastien Desabre wanted to thank all the Congolese for their support: “The Congolese were great with us. From the bottom of my heart, I want to say thank you for everything,” concludes Desabre.

fantastic WWE NXT photos of Feb. 6, 2024

Editor
-
0
fantastic WWE NXT photos of Feb. 6, 2024

Check out these incredible photos from WWE NXT, featuring NXT Champion Ilja Dragunov, Carmelo Hayes, Roxanne Perez, and much more

 

WWE Photo

WWE Photo

WWE Photo

WWE Photo

WWE Photo

WWE Photo

WWE Photo

WWE Photo

WWE Photo

WWE Photo

WWE Photo

WWE Photo

WWE Photo

WWE Photo

WWE Photo

WWE Photo

WWE Photo

WWE Photo

WWE Photo

WWE Photo

WWE Photo

WWE Photo

WWE Photo

WWE Photo

WWE Photo

WWE Photo

WWE Photo

WWE Photo

WWE Photo

WWE Photo

WWE Photo

WWE Photo

WWE Photo

WWE Photo

WWE Photo

WWE Photo

WWE Photo

WWE Photo

WWE Photo

WWE Photo

WWE Photo

WWE Photo

WWE Photo

WWE Photo

WWE Photo

WWE PhotoAll Photo credit: WWE.COM

South Africa settles for bronze match

Editor
-
0
South Africa settles for bronze match

Mental recovery is critical in the fight for third place – Broos

 

Photo Credit: CAFonline

 

South African head coach Hugo Broos says the fight for a bronze medal in the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Cote d’Ivoire 2023 will be more of a mental battle than anything, CAFonline reports.

 

South Africa faces the Democratic Republic of Congo on Saturday, 10 February, in Abidjan at 20h00 in a third and fourth-place play-off after both sides were eliminated in the semi-finals on Wednesday.

 

According to the Belgian tactician who guided South Africa to their first semi-final since 2000, the key to clinching a third place will be how they mentally recover from the heart-breaking semi-final loss.

 

“We played a perfect game against Nigeria. It was a great performance, and we again showed that we are a great team. When you exit after 120 minutes, it’s always a huge disappointment. When you play so well, the disappointment is so big. The game tomorrow is special. It depends a bit on which team will be mentally recovered because also for DRC, it was difficult to lose like that”.

 

Bafana Bafana were edged 4-2 by Nigeria after a dramatic 1-1 draw in Bouake, while the Leopards were edged 1-0 after a hard-fought encounter with the hosts, Cote d’Ivoire.

 

Kick off at the Felix Houphouet-Boigny is at 20h00 GMT.

 

Xulu is happy with Bafana Bafana’s progress

Editor
-
0
Xulu is happy with Bafana Bafana’s progress

Ahead of the clash with DR Congo for AFCON 2023 bronze medal title

 

DR Congo Photo Credit: CAFonline

 

South African defender Siyanda Xulu says he is happy with the team’s performance and their progress in their time at the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Cote d’Ivoire 2023, CAFonline reports.

 

Bafana Bafana reached the semi-finals, where Nigeria disappointingly knocked them out on Wednesday evening in Bouake.

 

This was the first semi-final appearance since 2000 by Hugo Broos’ charges, who will now contest the third-place play-off against the Democratic Republic of Congo on Saturday, 10 February, in Abidjan.

 

Speaking ahead of the clash with the Leopards, Xulu said he was proud of the progress made by the team and the impressive performance shown at the competition.

 

“We had our own goal as a team. We wanted to go as far as we could. We know very well our quality, especially from the coach, who has always believed in us as a team. To go this far was our objective. Reaching the semi-final is a dream. Yes, we wanted to take it home, but we couldn’t, but we can be proud of the performance,” said Xulu.

 

The last time the 1996 champions played the third and fourth play-off was in 2000 when they won 4-3 on penalties after a 2-2 draw against Tunisia.

 

How to watch and follow…

Editor
-
0
How to watch and follow…

2024 World Athletics Indoor Tour Gold – Lievin

World Athletics Indoor Tour Gold 2024 – Lievin
The 2024 World Athletics Indoor Tour Gold continues in Lievin, France, on Saturday (10), and here’s how you can watch and follow the action, World Athletics reports.

 

The Meeting Hauts-de-France Pas-de-Calais Trophée EDF has once again assembled incredible fields. Lamecha Girma will return to the scene of his world indoor 3000m record, but this time will target the fastest, clocking over 2000m. Fellow world champions Gudaf Tsegay, Femke Bol, Grant Holloway, Hagos Gebrhiwet, and Hugues Fabrice Zango will also be in action.

 

Many athletes will use the World Athletics Indoor Tour to prepare for the World Athletics Indoor Championships Glasgow 24 and then the Olympic Games in Paris, where athletics will start as the No.1 sport.

 

• Preview
• More World Indoor Tour news and announcements

 

How to watch and follow

Schedule and live results

 

A two-hour live stream of the meeting on Saturday, 10 February, will be available in several territories via World Athletics Inside Track. The live stream will start at 7:40 pm local time/CET (6:40 pm GMT) and end at 9:50 pm CET (8:50 pm GMT).

 

Sign up or log in to make sure you are ready to come on the event day.

 

Inside Track livestream

 

The live stream will be geoblocked in the following territories:
American Samoa, Anguilla, Antigua & Barbuda, Aruba, Bahamas, Barbados, Bermuda, British Virgin Islands, Caribbean Netherlands, Cayman Islands, Cuba, Curaçao, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Finland, France, Grenada, Guadeloupe, Guam, Guyana, Haiti, Hungary, Israel, Italy, Jamaica, Martinique, Montserrat, Netherlands, Northern Mariana Islands, Norway, Poland, Puerto Rico, Russia, San Marino, Slovakia, St. Barthélemy, St. Kitts & Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Martin, St. Vincent & Grenadines, Suriname, Sweden, Trinidad & Tobago, Turks & Caicos Islands, US Virgin Islands, United States, Vatican City

Coverage of the meeting will be available in the territories listed below. This list is subject to change. Check local listings – some broadcasts may be live, while others include highlights.

 

FloSports (FloTrack) American Samoa, Guam, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, United States of America, Northern Mariana Islands
RTVE (Teledeporte) Andorra, Canary Islands, Spain
Flow Sports Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Aruba, Bahamas, Barbados, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Cuba, Curacao, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Grenada, Haiti, Jamaica, Montserrat, Netherlands Antilles, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines VIN, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, Turks and Caicos Islands, Bermuda, Bonaire, Guadeloupe, Guyana, Martinique, Saint Barthelemy, Saint Martin
TV Arena Sport 5 Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia
TV Arena Sport 7 Croatia
MTV Urheilu 2 Finland
Host broadcaster France
M4 Sport+ Hungary
Sport 1 Israel
Sky Sport Arena Italy, San Marino, Vatican City
Ziggo Sport Docu Netherlands
VG+ Sport Norway
Polsat Sport News Poland
Match Arena / Match Igra Russia
Sport Slovakia
TV Arena Sport 4 Slovenia
Aftonbladet (Spring Media/Sportbladet) Sweden
Sport 1 / Sport 3 Ukraine

Social media

• World Athletics: X | Instagram | Facebook | TikTok
• Meeting Hauts-de-France Pas-de-Calais Trophée EDF: website | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter

2024 World Athletics Indoor Tour Gold calendar

27 January – Astana Indoor Meet for Amin Tuyakov Prizes, Astana, Kazakhstan
30 January – Czech Indoor Gala, Ostrava, Czech Republic
4 February – New Balance Indoor Grand Prix, Boston, USA
6 Feb – ORLEN Copernicus Cup, Torun, Poland
10 Feb – Meeting Hauts-de-France Pas-de-Calais ‘Trophée EDF’, Lievin, France
11 Feb – Millrose Games, New York, USA
23 February – World Indoor Tour Gold Madrid 2024, Madrid, Spain

 

1...838485...240Page 84 of 240

© 2025 - All rights reserved.
Designed By Aceon Technology

About Us

Popular Category

Editor Picks