Latest news with #AFCON
eNCA
15 hours ago
- Sport
- eNCA
Calls for concern as Banyana Banyana players complain over management
JOHANNESBURG - Retired Banyana Banyana forward Jermaine Seoposenwe, has opened up a can of worms about the real reasons she is quitting the national team. She is criticising the coaching and the culture in the Banyana set up, and SAFA's treatment of the women's team. Some of her frustration is directed at SAFA CEO Lydia Monyepao, saying she had hoped a female CEO would improve the women's game. Lots to unpack, including a less than ideal Women's AFCON in Morocco. Former SAFA technical director of women's football Fran Hilton-Smith, who also coached Banyana Banyana had a discussion with eNCA Nandi Tshabalala.
CAF
21 hours ago
- Sport
- CAF
From Schoolbooks to Stadium Lights: Odongo ready to shine for Kenya at CHAN 2024
Published: Thursday, 31 July 2025 Just a year ago, Austin Odongo was sitting national exams in Homabay County. Now, the 19-year-old is preparing to line up for Kenya at the TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024, marking a remarkable rise from schoolboy footballer to national team prospect. Odongo is not just one of the youngest players at the tournament — he is also one of the most intriguing stories. The midfielder, who recently completed Form Four (the final year of secondary school in Kenya), has been named in the final 25-man Harambee Stars squad for CHAN — a competition that exclusively features players from domestic leagues. And he has done it after just one season in top-flight football. 'I was really delighted when I received the call-up. It was a great reward after a good first season with Shabana,' Odongo told 'I felt really motivated even to know that the coach thought about me and I could provide solutions to his striking force. I am looking forward to this opportunity and to give my all for the team if given a chance.' From Youth Captain to Kenya Premier League Standout Odongo's breakthrough came during a Youth tournament organised by the Ministry of Sports, where he captained Homabay County to the title and caught the eye of scouts. Offers followed from various Kenyan Premier League clubs, but he chose Shabana FC, a fan-favourite side steeped in history, for his debut campaign. He didn't disappoint — scoring seven goals and registering two assists in just the second leg of the season. 'It was a really great experience of learning at Shabana. There was a lot to do in my debut in the Premier League and I am delighted with how I performed,' he said. 'It was great that I managed to settle in quickly and the club also gave me freedom and a conducive environment to work. I feel I have grown much since then and I am ready to move to the next level.' Second Chance at National Duty Odongo was part of Kenya's provisional squad for the U20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Egypt, but narrowly missed out on the final selection. That setback seems to have fuelled his hunger — and this time, he's made it. The youngster is among those hoping to inspire Kenya in their CHAN debut, and their opening match against DR Congo at the Moi Sports Centre Kasarani could be the stage for his international debut. 'This is a huge opportunity for me because it is a huge platform with the national team,' he said. 'Playing against teams from the rest of the continent with players who have massive experience is a huge thing. It also offers a platform to move my career to the next level because you never know who is watching. My ambition is to give my best for the team when called upon and ensure that we do well.' Kenya's 'Last Born' Now Looking Ahead Nicknamed the 'Last Born' of the team due to his age, Odongo is fast becoming a symbol of Kenya's next football generation. With the CHAN spotlight now firmly on East Africa, and scouts watching, the teenager could be on the cusp of something big. If he delivers, he may just announce himself not only as one for the future, but one for the present — for Kenya, and perhaps even for African football at large.
Morocco World
a day ago
- Sport
- Morocco World
FIFA President Commends Morocco's World-Class Football Infrastructure
FIFA President Gianni Infantino said today that Morocco's exceptional infrastructure achievements have elevated the country into the 'global football elite.' Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the royal reception presided over by King Mohammed VI for the Throne Day celebrations, Infantino commended the North African country's football vision under royal leadership. 'Morocco's vision, under His Majesty the King's guidance, to promote football excellence at the global level is extraordinary,' Infantino said. The FIFA chief recalled his recent visit to the Prince Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex in Rabat and commended Morocco's 'magnificent' organization of the Women's Africa Cup of Nations, which took place from July 5-26. 'I want to congratulate Morocco for its brilliant results during this continental competition,' he noted. Infantino pointed out Morocco's upcoming hosting responsibilities, which he said demonstrate the country's growing prominence in international football, particularly as it gears up to host the 2025 AFCON and co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup along with Spain and Portugal. Describing Morocco's existing infrastructure as being of 'exceptional quality,' Infantino said this enables the North African country to host prestigious football tournaments. He then commented on FIFA's decision to open its Africa office in Morocco, explaining that the new structure has the 'principal role' in serving both African and global football. The North African country has been investing efforts in football infrastructure, positioning itself as a leading country in Africa. Morocco's infrastructure developments are on track to deliver venues that meet international standards. FIFA's head comments reflect Morocco's successful journey to transform into a major hub for international football. Tags: Gianni InfantinoKing Mohammed VIMorocco's football infrastructure
Zawya
2 days ago
- Politics
- Zawya
Parliament demands better publicity for African Nations Championship (CHAN) tournament
Parliament has raised concerns over the limited publicity as Uganda readies to host the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) which kicks off on Saturday, 02 August 2025. Legislators raised the concerns during debate on a statement by the Minister of State for Sports, Hon. Peter Ogwang on Wednesday, 30 July 2025. Members of Parliament praised the infrastructural progress but voiced frustration over the delayed and underwhelming promotion of the tournament. Speaker Anita Among reminded the House that the successful hosting of CHAN would determine Uganda's readiness to host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). 'How we host CHAN will determine how ready we will be to host AFCON,' she said commending the government for its investment in infrastructure. AUDIO Kayemba Hon. Geofrey Kayemba (Bukomansimbi South) questioned the timing and sufficiency of publicity efforts noting that only days remain before Uganda's first match. 'When was the Federation of Uganda Football Association (FUFA) given the Shs1 billion? This would have taken like three months back to do activations... the public needs to own it and to feel it,' he said adding that failure to invest in marketing was akin to hiding, 'a beautiful thing... deep down our beds'. Minister Ogwang clarified that although publicity is primarily a CAF responsibility, the government allocated Shs1 billion to FUFA to supplement these efforts given the short preparation window. 'This is a football event… we found it prudent that we use FUFA to help us as a government… to carry out this civic duty and popularise the event across the country,' he said adding that the campaign had begun in various towns with radio activations and advertisements. AUDIO Ogwang Hon. Asuman Basalirwa (Bugiri Municipality) warned that poor publicity could lead to empty stadiums. 'If we don't publicise these games, the stadium will be empty. And that will not be very good for the country,' he said. Hon. Susan Amero (Amuria District Woman Representative) used the occasion to call for balanced funding across all sports. 'We are treating football like it is the only game. I pray that in the subsequent budgeting, we should consider giving enough money to other sports,' she said. AUDIO Amero The Minister's statement highlighted that Uganda will host 12 matches at the Mandela National Stadium, Namboole and that renovations at key training facilities including Kyambogo University, FUFA Kadiba, Mutesa II Stadium and Kampala International School Uganda (KISU) have met CAF standards. Speaker Among also sought clarity on unaccounted funds previously allocated for sports infrastructure. 'There is the money… meant for Mbarara-Kakyeka Stadium. We want an explanation on what happened to that money. I also know that we gave money to Masaka. We also want an explanation on what happened,' she said. Uganda is hosting Group C matches featuring Algeria, Guinea, Niger, South Africa and Uganda, as part of a joint East African PAMOJA bid with Kenya and Tanzania. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Parliament of the Republic of Uganda.
CAF
2 days ago
- Sport
- CAF
TotalEnergies CAF CHAN 2024: Tanzania team profile
Published: Wednesday, 30 July 2025 As co-hosts of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024, Tanzania is set to make their third appearance in the tournament. With the pride and passion of a nation behind them, the Taifa Stars will look to leverage home advantage to progress beyond the group stage for the first time in their history. Under the guidance of head coach Hemed Morocco, Tanzania will aim to capitalize on the rising profile of their domestic league and recent performances in CAF competitions. Factfile Nickname : Taifa Stars : Taifa Stars Number of Appearances : 3rd : 3rd Titles : None : None FIFA Ranking: 103 (July 2025) How They Qualified Tanzania secured their place in the tournament as one of the three co-hosts, alongside Kenya and Uganda. This presents a golden opportunity for the Taifa Stars to showcase their footballing development on home soil. Key Players to Watch Clement Mzize : The 21-year-old forward has been in scintillating form this season, scoring six goals in the Tanzanian Premier League. Mzize's pace and clinical finishing make him a key asset. : The 21-year-old forward has been in scintillating form this season, scoring six goals in the Tanzanian Premier League. Mzize's pace and clinical finishing make him a key asset. Feisal Salum: A creative midfielder with an eye for goal, Salum has already demonstrated his class by scoring twice during the AFCON qualifiers. His vision and composure will be vital in midfield. Coach: Hemed 'Morocco' Suleiman With a reputation for tactical discipline and an attacking approach, Hemed Morocco will lead Tanzania as they aim to make a historic impact in the CHAN tournament. Morocco's experience with both the senior and U20 teams brings stability and ambition to the Taifa Stars. Past CHAN Performances Tanzania previously participated in the 2009 and 2020 editions of the tournament but were eliminated at the group stage on both occasions. This year, they aim to rewrite history and achieve a deeper run. What to Expect Buoyed by the emergence of domestic giants Simba SC and Young Africans in CAF interclub competitions, Tanzania is expected to bring a competitive edge to CHAN 2024. With the support of passionate home fans, the Taifa Stars will be a team to watch. Fan Zone Did you know? Tanzania has never advanced past the group stage in their CHAN history. Could 2024 be the year they break the curse? Fans across the nation will hope for a memorable tournament on home soil.
