Sebastien Desabre, DR Congo national team coach, revealed his intention to capitalize on Egypt’s defensive vulnerabilities when the two teams meet in the knockout stage of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) on Sunday.

Speaking at the pre-game press conference, Desabre said, “We are prepared for the Egypt game, as they possess a potent frontline.”

He emphasized the high stakes of the knockout match, stating: “The group stage is behind us, and this is a do-or-die encounter.”

Desabre expressed confidence in his team’s ability to perform at both individual and collective levels, asserting: “My players are well aware of their responsibilities, and we are fully prepared for the game.”

Egypt suffered significant setbacks during the group stage, with key star and captain Mohamed Salah sustaining an injury, and first-choice goalkeeper Mohamed El-Shennawi also being sidelined in separate matches against Ghana and Cape Verde.

While expressing disappointment at Salah’s absence, Desabre acknowledged Egypt’s depth, saying: “We had hoped Salah would play, as he is a legend and an iconic figure, but Egypt’s squad has other capable options who have responded well in his absence.”

Seven-time African champions Egypt secured their place in the knockout stage by finishing second in Group B, earning three points from three consecutive draws.

Desabre noted Egypt’s defensive struggles, remarking, “Egypt has conceded six goals and employed three different playing styles. We intend to exploit their defensive weaknesses.”

DR Congo claimed the second position in Group F with three points, following a goalless draw against Tanzania in their final group match.

The Leopards, who won the AFCON twice in 1968 and 1974, also drew 1-1 in their first two encounters against Morocco and Zambia.

The winner of the Egypt-DR Congo match will face the victor between Equatorial Guinea and Guinea in the quarter-finals.

Amusan has set a new African women’s indoor record in the 60m hurdles at the Astana Indoor Meet in Kazakhstan.

It is just January 2024, but Tobi Amusan has picked up where she left off in 2013, breaking Gloria Alozie’s 25-year-old 60m hurdles indoor record on Saturday.

Amusan set an African record as she dipped under 7.8 seconds in the 60m hurdles at the Astana Indoor Meet in Kazakhstan. Her record of 7.77 seconds smashed Alozie’s 25-year-old record of 7.82 seconds, set in 1999 during the Madrid Championship.

Amusan, 26, finished ahead of close competitors from the USA and Ireland, respectively.

Amusan finished first in the event’s final, ahead of Nia Ali of the US and Ireland’s Sarah Lavin, who finished second and third, respectively.

Aside from beating Alozie’s record, her 7.77-second achievement might enter the all-time top 20 records after every adjustment.

Amusan experienced a series of ups and downs in 2023. She faced a provisional suspension from the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) on accusations of “missing three tests in 12 months.” As a consequence, she was unable to retain her World Championship title in Hungary, finishing in sixth place due to her arrival just three days before the start of the competition.

She bounced back towards the end of 2023, winning her third consecutive Diamond League medal.

Amusan, also known as ‘The Express,’ is getting ready for the 2024 Olympic Games, scheduled for Paris and starting from 26 July.

A calm and controlled performance from the Super Eagles showed a more mature side to Peseiro’s team.

The Indomitable Lions were toothless against the Super Eagles when they don’t meet in the AFCON final.

Coach Jose Peseiro has seemingly found the winning formation that has ensured defensive solidity, as they made it three consecutive matches without conceding a goal.

Though it was not vintage Super Eagles, it was as clinical a display as we will see at this AFCON tournament as Ademola Lookman proved why he has to be considered before the frustrating Samuel Chukwueze.

Victor Osimhen’s endeavours will pay off in goals very soon, as his hard work pressuring defenders is reaping great rewards in Cote d’Ivoire.

Below are the ratings of the performances of the players who played against Cameroon on Saturday.

Stanley Nwabali: 80 minutes [27, 4 caps]

Rating: 7/10

Nwabali was largely on holiday, and when he was called on, he made clearing punches that relieved the pressure on his defenders until he was injured by Georges-Kevin N’Koudou. Nigerians will be praying he gets better before Friday’s encounter against Angola.

Semi Ajayi: 90 minutes [30, 27 caps]

Rating: 6/10

Ajayi believed he had given the Eagles the lead in the ninth, but his left foot had strayed offside. The West Brom defender sometimes looks shaky on the ball. There was a moment in the first half when he lost the ball when he had easy passing options.

William Troost-Ekong: 90 minutes [30, 68 caps]

Rating: 7/10

The Eagles captain was a colossus at the back, making sure he was always well-positioned to thwart Cameroon’s attacks. He won all eight duels and made five clearances as he led the team to another clean sheet.

Calvin Bassey: 90 minutes [24, 13 caps]

Rating: 7.5/10

Another excellent performance from the Fulham defender, and he was fully deserving of the assist for Lookman’s second goal. He contested 17 duels and won 13. He also made three successful tackles from four and had one interception. Whether it was in a back three or as the left wing-back, Bassey continues to shine.

Ola Aina: 90 minutes [30, 34 caps]

Rating: 7.5/10

Aina was once again imperious, and it would have been the icing on his cake if his goal-bound shot was not blocked by Nouhou Tolo in the closing minutes of the encounter. He rendered Cameroon’s most dangerous player, Georges-Kevin N’Koudou, largely inconsequential.

Frank Onyeka: 90 minutes [26, 16 caps]

Rating: 7/10

The Brentford man continues to go about his work quietly. A driving run in the second half almost won a penalty for his team, but it was more his intuition and strength that helped defuse Cameroon’s midfield, which was led by his namesake, Frank Zambo Anguissa. He won 50 per cent of the 14 duels he contested.

Alex Iwobi: 90 minutes [27, 67 caps]

Rating: 6.5/10

Given the more conservative nature of his role in Peseiro’s formation, Iwobi’s semi-assist for the second goal is more like what he is usually known for. He was at the right place at the right time, ensuring there were no gaps for the Cameroonians to exploit.

Zaidu Sanusi: 80 minutes [26, 15 caps]

Rating: 6/10

Sanusi oscillates from the very good to the absurd in seconds. He literally confuses himself at his next action, but the Porto man played well and defended well even though he gave away some needless fouls and made many wrong passes.

Ahmed Musa has not played any minute for the Super Eagles at AFCON.

Super Eagles coach Jose Peseiro has addressed concerns surrounding national team captain Ahmed Musa’s lack of playing time at the ongoing AFCON tournament in Côte d’Ivoire.

Despite not featuring in any of the Super Eagles’ four matches, Peseiro insists Musa remains a crucial figure for the team.

“He can play and also be a good leader,” Peseiro stated at the post-match press conference after their victory against Cameroon. “I have two other captains, Ekong and Omeruo, who are doing a fantastic job regardless of playing time.”

Peseiro emphasized that Musa’s presence transcends playing minutes, highlighting his dual role as leader and mentor. “If he weren’t an option, I wouldn’t call him,” he explained. “But because he is, his contribution goes beyond the pitch.”

Peseiro further elaborated on how Musa’s experience benefits the team, particularly the younger players. “We have 11 players experiencing their first AFCON,” he said. “Someone needs to manage them, like me. Sometimes, I ask Musa, Omeruo, and Ekong to share their knowledge and explain the tournament atmosphere.”

Musa had expressed confidence in the Super Eagles going all the way despite the injury setbacks that denied some key players the chance of making Nigeria’s AFCON party to Ivory Coast.

Acknowledging the challenge of injuries, Musa said, “In football, you have to expect the unexpected. Injuries have greatly affected us, but we can’t dwell on that. We have to pray for their recovery and focus on the next game.”

Despite the challenges, Musa remains confident in the team’s ability to succeed. “Do I still believe the Super Eagles can do it again?” he asked rhetorically. “Insha Allah, I still have that belief.”

The Super Eagles defeated Cameroon on Saturday to qualify for the quarter-final of the ongoing AFCON. They will return to action on Friday when they face Angola in the quarter-final

Honourable Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh has praised the exceptional performance of Nigeria’s Super Eagles in their 2-0 triumph over Cameroon during their Round of 16 clash at the ongoing 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast.

Enoh said the victory showcased the team’s undiluted resilience, determination, and fighting spirit.

“The resilience, determination, and fighting spirit of Nigeria’s Super Eagles paid off in a spectacular fashion on Saturday evening. The team’s commitment to excellence and unity was evident, and I commend each player for their exceptional performance,” said Senator John Owan Enoh.

The Minister highlighted the significance of the victory not only for the team but for the entire nation.
“This win is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and talent that our nation possesses. It not only brings joy to football fans across the country but also enhances Nigeria’s reputation on the international stage,” he added

Nigeria’s Super Eagles will now face Angola in the quarter-finals on Friday, February 2. Senator John Enoh expressed his confidence in the team’s ability to continue their impressive run in the tournament.

“As we look ahead to the quarter-finals, I have full faith in the Super Eagles. Their journey so far has showcased their resilience and unity. I encourage them to maintain this momentum and give their best in the upcoming matches,” Senator John Enoh remarked.

The Minister concluded by thanking the coaching staff, support personnel, and fans for their support. “Together, we celebrate this victory and anticipate more memorable moments in the exciting journey of the Super Eagles at AFCON 2023,” he stated.

Super Eagles forward, Ademola Lookman has been named the Man-Of-The-Match award in Nigeria’s 2-0 win over Cameroon in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations round of 16 clash on Saturday, January 27, 2024.

Ademola Lookman, was at his very best to score both goals to lead the eagles to vicory.

The Atalanta forward scored the opening goal for Nigeria in the 36th minute after Napoli goal poacher Victor Osimhen set a perfect assist to put Nigeria ahead.

The Nigerian international sealed the win in the 90th minute after one of the game’s best moves, volleying home Calvin Bassey’s cutback to spark huge celebrations among the three-time champions.

The Super Eagles will meet Angola, who impressed in a 3-0 win over Namibia earlier, in the quater-final match scheduled for Friday, Febuary 2, 2024 at the Felix Houphouet-Boigny Stadium, Abidjan.

An audacious Nigeria side marched sure-footedly into the Africa Cup of Nations quarter-finals after a needless-to-get-into-fifth-gear performance that eliminated Cameroon from the continent’s flagship football championship on Saturday.

The Super Eagles, who took seven out of the maximum nine points from their group phase matches, stepped onto the relatively-familiar turf of the Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny with assurance, and thought they had taken the lead when Semi Ajayi swept the ball home from a goalmouth melee. Moroccan referee Redouane Jiyed gave the goal, but was summoned by the Video Assistant Referee to watch the action again and afterwards ruled out the strike.

Nigeria’s twin-terror of Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman did not relent, and in the 35^th minute, Africa Player of the Year Osimhen picked the pocket of a dithering defender Oumar Gonzalez and threaded to Lookman, who shot past Fabrice Ondoa from close range.

After the recess, Nigeria continued where they had left off in the first period, and Lookman blasted over the sticks from a 22-yard free-kick. Five minutes later Lookman freed Osimhen but got too much purchase on the ball and Ondoa cleared.

Cameroon called goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali to duty in the 71^st minute with a fierce free-kick, but the goaltender punched clear. Nwabali was injured in another goalmouth melee and had to be substituted by Francis Uzoho.

Five minutes from the end, a one-two of Osimhen and Lookman from the left saw the ball roll to Olaoluwa Aina in the box, but his effort was too weak and Ondoa blocked with his leg. 

On the dot of 90 minutes, Calvin Bassey and Lookman combined from the left, and with the Cameroonian defence flummoxed, Lookman placed the ball to the far left of Ondoa for his, and Nigeria’s, second goal of the night as the crowd went into delirium.

“It was a solid performance and we are proud of the team. They did a great job tonight and we look forward to the quarter-finals with high expectations,” President of NFF, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau said at the final whistle.

The three-time champions, who also knocked out Cameroon from the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations in the Round of 16, will now confront Angola’s Palancas Negras (victors of Namibia) in the quarter-finals on Friday. Venue is the Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny in Abidjan.

Gelson Dala raised his Africa Cup of Nations goal tally to four with a brace for 10-man Angola in a 3-0 last-16 triumph over Namibia in Bouake on Saturday.

Surprise package Angola will face Nigeria or Cameroon, who meet later in Abidjan, in a quarter-final next Friday.

After Dala scored twice in the first half, Mabululu netted midway through the second half to effectively end as a contest the clash of southern Africa neighbours.

Both teams were reduced to 10 men by first-half red cards with Angola goalkeeper Neblu and Namibia defender Lubeni Haukongo sent off.

The winning margin was a record for Angola, bettering two-goal victories over Senegal and Malawi in previous Cup of Nations.

The first of eight second-round fixtures was not one that would have been anticipated when the African football showpiece kicked off in the Ivory Coast 14 days ago.

Angola won a group ahead of Burkina Faso, Mauritania and shock casualties Algeria when they were expected to finish third at best given an AFCON record of just four victories in 26 matches.

The best Namibia had managed in three previous appearances was two draws while losing seven other matches. One of the draws was against Angola in Burkina Faso 26 years ago.

Angola, showing two changes from the team that started a win over Burkina Faso last Tuesday, were reduced to 10 men after just 17 minutes.

– Searing heat –
Neblu — one of many Angolans who use a nickname rather than their real name — handled a Bethuel Muzeu lob outside his area and was immediately red-carded.

Reserve goalkeeper Antonio Dominique came off the bench at the expense of midfielder Estrela and was quickly brought into action as he parried to safety a Deon Hotto free-kick.

After a water break to assist players performing in searing 34 degrees Celsius (93 Fahrenheit) heat, the match took a dramatic turn with two goals and another red card in four minutes.

A Gilberto cross and Fredy cutback set up Dala to sidefoot the ball into the corner of the net on 38 minutes.

Namibia surrendered their numerical advantage two minutes later when Haukongo was yellow-carded a second time and sent off by the Mauritanian referee.

Dala struck again on 42 minutes, powerfully heading a Fredy free-kick into the corner of the net to give Angola a two-goal advantage they retained until half-time.

After early second-half pressure from Namibia as they sought the goal that bring them back into contention for a last-eight place, Angola stretched their lead to three goals on 66 minutes.

Having fired narrowly wide, veteran Mabululu almost instantly atoned by sprinting on to a Dala pass before superbly curling a shot past goalkeeper Lloyd Kazapua.

The unquenchable spirit of the Namibians in the face of a looming loss was demonstrated in the closing minutes when a Riaan Hanamub shot forced a spectacular save from Dominique.

In added time, Angola were denied a fourth goal when a shot from substitute Zito Luvumbo rebounded off the crossbar.

Felix Lebrun stopped Aruna in the quarterfinal as he avenged his brother’s loss in the earlier round

French teenage sensation Felix Lebrun has defeated Quadri Aruna 3-1 to advance to the semi-final of the men’s singles in India.

Lebrun halted the smooth journey, which was started by African champion Aruna at the WTT Star Contender Goa on 27 January.

Aruna, the only surviving African in the competition following the first and second round exits of Egypt’s duo of Hana Goda and Omar Assar in the singles event, had in the second round beat Germany’s Ruwen Filus to set up a round of 16 tie against Alexis Lebrun.

Being their second meeting in a WTT event, Aruna was at his best against the senior Lebrun, as the Nigerian came out stronger with a 3-1 (11-8, 8-11, 12-10, 11-8) win to progress to the quarterfinal against the younger Lebrun.

The bespectacled Felix, who lost his first meeting against the Nigerian in 2023, must have been briefed by his brother on how to cage Aruna.

He started the encounter to avenge his brother’s defeat with an 11-4 win in the first game.

Felix took that momentum into the second game, which he won 11-6. Aruna tried to stage another comeback just like he did against Hugo Calderano at the WTT Cup Finals earlier this year against the younger Lebrun, but the French star thwarted this to win the third game 12-10.

Aruna, the world number 14, continues his fine run this year after finishing at the quarterfinal stage of the WTT Cup Finals in Doha earlier this year following his superb comeback against Brazilian Hugo Calderano in the first round of the championships.

He will lead Nigeria to the 2024 World Table Tennis Championships taking place in Busan, South Korea, next month.

Barcelona Manager Xavi Hernandez has confirmed that he will be leaving the Catalan giants at the end of this season. 

The announcement comes in the wake of a disappointing 5-3 home defeat to Villarreal in a league game at Nou Camp on Saturday.

The clash witnessed a total of nine goals, with six scored by the visitors. Gerard Moreno opened the scoring in the 41st minute, 21 minutes after having a goal disallowed. Ilias Akomach extended Villarreal’s lead to two in the 54th minute, but İlkay Gündoğan pulled one back for Barcelona in the 60th minute. Gündoğan then assisted Pedri, who had just come off the bench, for the equalizer eight minutes later.

In the 71st minute, Barcelona took the lead with an Eric Bailly own goal, but Goncalo Guedes leveled for Villarreal in the 84th minute. Alexander Sørloth, who assisted Villarreal’s third goal, then scored one himself in the 99th minute, before José Luis Morales sealed the victory with the fifth goal in the 90+12 minute.

After the match, Xavi Hernandez announced his decision to leave the managerial position at the end of the season during a post-match conference:

“I will leave Barcelona in June”, said Xavi during post match conference.

“We have reached a point of no return. It’s time for change. As a Culé, I think that it’s time to leave.

“I spoke with the board and the club today. I will leave on the 30th of June”.

“This club needs a change of dynamic. Leaving Barça is the best decision possible for all parties involved”, continued Xavi.

“I’m the most responsible one, so the players will finally feel free now.

“Everything will be calmer now, we can compete for the Champions League… at least with this decision you [the press] won’t kill me anymore.

“The club will improve with this decision.

“You asked me many times that if I’d be the Sir Alex Ferguson of Barça… the truth is that it will NEVER happen here.

“You guys won’t allow it — being Barça coach is so difficult.

“You see how they kill you, they criticize you, it affects you.”

The Catalan giants were previously eliminated from the Copa del Rey cup in the midweek by Athletic Bilbao.