Latest news with #AfricanNationsChampionship
IOL News
18 minutes ago
- Sport
- IOL News
Grounded and focused, Dolly eyes right move for career and family
Keagan Dolly is embracing his leadership role at CHAN while preparing for a move that fits his long-term goals and family life. Photo: Backpagepix Image: Backpagepix Keagan Dolly is now wiser, more grounded, and family-focused — and that's why his next move must align with the plans he has set for both the present and the future. Dolly was released by TS Galaxy at the end of the season, having joined the club late last year as a free agent. He made 18 appearances across all competitions, scoring three goals and helping the team secure a Top 8 finish in the Betway Premiership. His departure from Galaxy raised eyebrows, considering the value he brought both on and off the field, particularly in mentoring younger players. But the 32-year-old has firmly closed that chapter and is determined to make a strong return to the Bafana Bafana fold. Dolly is part of the Bafana squad set to compete in the African Nations Championship (CHAN), which gets underway next month in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. The tournament features only players active in their domestic leagues. After Bafana's 1-1 draw with Angola in a behind-closed-doors training match this week, the former Kaizer Chiefs captain opened up about his exit from Galaxy. 'It's part of football,' Dolly said. 'I'm 32 now and have been travelling a lot. I've realised you don't stay at one club forever. 'There comes a time when you have to move. That's what happened at TS Galaxy. We couldn't reach an agreement, and that's football. 'I'm just happy to be part of the national team setup again. I still want to play and enjoy football — that's all I want right now. 'I also want to be present for my family. I'm enjoying myself, and I still feel like I can play for a few more years.' Dolly was clear about the kind of project he's looking for next. 'If the right project comes — something that aligns with where I am in life, and my family's schedule — then I'll be happy to join,' he said. The nurturer in Dolly still exists, but at this stage of his career, self-preservation and happiness have taken priority. 'I'm looking for a club that has ambitions to compete for trophies and achieve its goals — a club that sees the bigger picture,' he explained. 'Most importantly, a club that will give me the freedom to be myself and enjoy football again — not worry about what's happening around the club. 'I want to return to the Ajax Cape Town days — when all that mattered was playing football and having fun.' At CHAN, Dolly is expected to play a leading role. Head coach Molefi Ntseki will rely on his experience to guide the squad, particularly when pressure mounts during the tournament. Dolly and Ntseki have worked together before — both at Bafana Bafana and Kaizer Chiefs, where Ntseki served as technical director. For now, though, Dolly remains focused on the national team. 'My focus is here with Bafana. I'm trying to help the youngsters — there's Ntando Nkosi, who's a very talented player,' Dolly said. 'There are two players from Gomorrah who are also very exciting. So, for me, it's about playing my role and helping them along the way.'
Zawya
15 hours 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.
IOL News
15 hours ago
- Sport
- IOL News
Ntseki buoyed by Bafana's progress ahead of CHAN 2025 kick-off
Bafana Bafana coach Molefi Ntseki is backing his mix of free agents and local-based players to make an impact at CHAN 2025. Photo: Backpagepix Image: Backpagepix Bafana Bafana head coach Molefi Ntseki has expressed satisfaction with the strides made by his team as preparations continue for the upcoming African Nations Championship (CHAN), set to take place from 2 to 30 August 2025 across Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. South Africa will kick off their campaign against Algeria next Friday at the Mandela National Stadium in Kampala, Uganda. With just days remaining before the tournament begins, Ntseki is optimistic about the team's readiness following a productive week in camp. The CHAN tournament is unique in that it only features players actively competing in their respective domestic leagues. For Ntseki, that has meant calling on a mix of seasoned professionals and fringe players — including a number of free agents still seeking club contracts ahead of the new season. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad Loading Despite this, the former Kaizer Chiefs mentor has been encouraged by the level of commitment shown by the group and believes the blend of youth, hunger, and experience could prove crucial. Among the notable names in the squad are former Kaizer Chiefs playmaker Keagan Dolly and recently released Sea Robbers striker Zakhele Lepasa — both experienced campaigners who have represented some of South Africa's biggest clubs and bring invaluable top-flight pedigree to the side. Bafana have been in camp for a week now, and although most domestic sides are only just wrapping up their pre-season programmes ahead of this weekend's MTN8 kick-off, Ntseki's men won't be far off the pace as their competitive opener edges closer. On Tuesday, the national side played Angola in a behind-closed-doors friendly at Lucas Moripe Stadium, which ended in a 1-1 draw. The match formed part of their final preparations before departing for East Africa. Reflecting on the squad's formation and the challenges faced, Ntseki highlighted the complexities associated with CHAN squad selection. 'It has always been a challenge to select CHAN squads, and this has been the case from our first qualifier against Egypt in March and then the game against Malawi in May,' Ntseki said after the match against Angola. 'But I think the players that were made available for selection are of quality, and they are players who are very proud to be selected and to be part of this team. You can tell from the attitude and the work rate of the players since we started with the qualifiers and again in the game we played today.' Ntseki also pointed out that having 15 unattached players in the squad is not necessarily a disadvantage. Instead, it may provide an opportunity for those players to put themselves in the shop window. 'We have got 15 players in the team that are unattached, but it is not because of a lack of quality from their side,' he continued. 'There are many other reasons why these players are not attached, and they are good-quality players. They've been in the league for more than five and even ten seasons, so you can't go wrong if you have these types of players as part of the team going into CHAN. 'So, I am very, very impressed and very happy to have this group.'
IOL News
19 hours ago
- Sport
- IOL News
Ntseki banking on blended Bafana squad for CHAN charge
BAFANA WITH A PLAN Bafana coach Molefi Ntseki . Picture: Sydney Mahlungu/BackpagePix Image: Sydney Mahlungu/BackpagePix Bafana Bafana are finalising preparations for the African Nations Championship (CHAN), which kicks off in just over a week across East Africa. South Africa begin their campaign against Algeria next Friday at the Mandela National Stadium in Kampala, Uganda, under the guidance of former Kaizer Chiefs coach Molefi Ntseki. The tournament, set to run from 2–30 August, will be co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. South Africa are in Group C alongside Guinea, Niger, and tournament hosts Uganda. Ntseki heads into the competition with a well-balanced squad brimming with talent and experience. Several players are looking to use the tournament as a springboard to reignite their careers or take the next step in their development and here we look at five key players to watch: Neo Maema (Mamelodi Sundowns) Neo Maema of Mamelodi Sundowns. Picture: Muzi Ntombela, BackpagePix Image: BackpagePix Maema ended last season strongly, catching the attention of his club coach with solid performances during CHAN qualifiers. The 29-year-old midfielder rediscovered his form and thrived under pressure, even taking on captaincy duties as Bafana sealed their spot in the tournament. With another important season ahead at club level, Maema will be aiming to use this competition as a launchpad to cement his place both at Sundowns and on the national stage. Zakhele Lepasa (Free Agent) Former Orlando Pirates star Zakhele Lepasa. Picture: Sydney Mahlangu, BackpagePix Image: BackpagePix After a tough spell at Orlando Pirates, Lepasa's inclusion in the CHAN squad represents a fresh start. The striker struggled for consistent game time and eventually fell out of favour with coach Jose Riveiro, leading to his recent exit from the club. Now a free agent, the 28-year-old will view the tournament as a perfect platform to remind everyone of his quality. When firing, Lepasa remains one of the top goal scorers in the country—and the tournament could be exactly what he needs to relaunch his career. Malibongwe Khoza (Mamelodi Sundowns) Mamelodi Sundowns defender Malibongwe Khoza against Kaizer Chgiefs. | Itumeleng English Independent Media Image: Itumeleng English Independent Media At just 21, Khoza is considered one of the brightest young defensive talents in South African football. The centre-back has already tasted continental football through his CAF Champions League appearances with Sundowns, showcasing his calmness and maturity under pressure. CHAN presents a valuable opportunity for him to gain more experience and stake a long-term claim in the national team setup—especially with vacancies opening up in the Bafana backline. Keagan Dolly (Free Agent) Keagan Dolly of South Africa. Picture: Muzi Ntombela, BackpagePix Image: BackpagePix Dolly enjoyed a strong campaign at TS Galaxy last season, helping them to an impressive fifth-place finish. Despite that, the club opted not to renew his contract. Still, his performances proved that he has plenty left to offer. The tournament could be the perfect opportunity for the 31-year-old to maintain match fitness and stay in the spotlight while seeking a new club. His experience and creativity could prove vital as Bafana navigate a challenging group. Ramahlwe Mphahlele (Free Agent) Ramahlwe Mphahlele joined AmaZulu from Kaizer Chiefs. Picture: Sydney Mahlangu, BackpagePix Image: BackpagePix Veteran defender Mphahlele brings a wealth of experience to the squad, having featured in multiple international campaigns for Bafana. After parting ways with AmaZulu, the 35-year-old remains without a club but is still highly regarded for his leadership and professionalism. The tournament could offer him a valuable chance to contribute both on and off the field, while also showcasing that he still has plenty to offer prospective PSL suitors.
The South African
19 hours ago
- Sport
- The South African
Orlando Pirates former star given ultimatum by PSL boss
Orlando Pirates former star Zakhele Lepasa has received a firm message from TS Galaxy president Tim Sukazi, who insists the striker must take initiative if he wants to return to the club where he once made history. Lepasa became a free agent last week after parting ways with the Buccaneers. His departure followed a season on the sidelines due to injury, with no appearances recorded for the Soweto giants in the previous campaign. Pirates decided to release the Bafana Bafana striker shortly after signing Yanela Mbuthuma. Lepasa has since linked up with the national squad ahead of the African Nations Championship (CHAN), featuring in a 1-1 friendly draw with Angola at Lucas Moripe Stadium. Lepasa famously etched his name into TS Galaxy folklore during the 2018/2019 season. On loan from Pirates, he scored the winning goal in the Nedbank Cup final against Kaizer Chiefs, helping Galaxy become the first lower-division side to lift the trophy. Now, Sukazi says the forward must decide whether to come home or seek opportunities abroad. 'The Lepasa chapter is closed, unless he decides he wants to come home,' Sukazi told Ikwekwezi FM. 'The door is always open. I discovered him, and he has my number [to call me if he's interested in joining TS Galaxy]. I'm unsure of where his and his agent's headspace is.' 'In situations like this, I can't chase after him. If he wants to come home, he knows what to do. Sometimes it becomes easy for players who've played for Orlando Pirates to secure deals overseas. A lot of players are moving outside South Africa. Maybe he's exploring his options.' As the transfer window begins to wind down. All eyes are on the former Orlando Pirates star. With offers potentially on the table from abroad, will Lepasa return to his roots at TS Galaxy, or carve out a new path beyond South African football? Let us know by leaving a comment below or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X, and Bluesky for the latest news.
