AfricaSoccer.com
Total reads
429
This week
23
Rank
#147 of 416
Published
9,901 posts
Last 12 weeks
Most read posts
Featured on Sportsblogs
Run this blog? Add the badge to your site to show readers you're featured — it links back to this page.
Latest Entries
China backlash against Kylian Mbappe escalates as France shirt is burned
A Chinese fan publicly burned a France jersey with Kylian Mbappé’s name after the Real Madrid striker’s controversial remarks, sparking wider protests beyond official sanctions. The incident, captured on video and spreading across social media, highlights growing anti‑Mbappé sentiment in China.
Hadji says Morocco can deliver Africa’s next World Cup final
Morocco legend Mustapha Hadri argues that the 2030 World Cup final belongs in Morocco, citing the nation’s state‑of‑the‑art stadiums and infrastructure. He stresses that Africa’s first World Cup final since the continent’s debut should showcase Moroccan facilities, even as the tournament is set to be co‑hosted by Spain and Portugal, with Argentina, Uruguay and Paraguay each handling a single celebratory match marking the centenary of the competition. Hadji’s push spotlights the continent’s readiness to host football’s marquee event.
China row puts football’s commercial ties under fresh scrutiny after Mbappe comments
Kylian Mbappé’s remarks on Mao Zedong have sparked fresh scrutiny of European football’s financial reliance on China. His comments have already threatened broadcasting deals in La Liga and jeopardised his own advertising contracts, prompting apologies from Real Madrid and the Spanish league. The episode underscores how Beijing’s leverage through TV rights and commercial partnerships can pressure clubs and players, reigniting debate over the sport’s growing commercial ties to China.
China gives no indication that Mbappe apology will end La Liga and Real Madrid boycott
China’s foreign ministry acknowledges Kylian Mbappé’s apology for comments about the Chinese people, but offers no sign that the boycott targeting the French star, La Liga and Real Madrid will be lifted. Spokesman Guo Jiakun was asked on Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2026, whether the sanctions would end, and the response left the measures in place.
Barcelona’s attacking doctrine could give Atletico Madrid another late opportunity
Barcelona's high‑pressing, high‑line approach under Hansi Flick has secured back‑to‑back La Liga crowns, two Super Cups and a Copa del Rey, but its exposed defence remains a liability against top sides. Ahead of the November 8, 2026 title clash, Atletico Madrid could exploit this vulnerability with their disciplined, counter‑attacking style, potentially turning Barcelona's offensive zeal into a late‑game opening for the visitors.
Noureddine Ben Zekri emerges as Abha candidate after third Saudi Pro League dismissal
Algerian coach Noureddine Ben Zekri is being linked to the vacant Abha job after the club sacked Damir Buric—its third managerial exit in the 2026 Saudi Pro League season. Abha announced the dismissal on Wednesday, citing the team's disappointing start to the campaign. Ben Zekri, who previously coached in the league, emerges as a leading candidate to revive Abha's fortunes.
Gavi’s Barcelona comeback faces fresh test as midfield competition intensifies
Barcelona midfielder Gavi finally returns to full fitness but has logged just 191 minutes this season, far shy of the starring role fans expected after his knee injury layoff. As the club’s midfield battle heats up, the Spanish international faces a new test to reclaim his spot amid stiff competition for minutes. The article examines his recovery timeline, the tactical challenges at Camp Nou, and who’s vying for the same central positions as Gavi fights to re‑establish himself.
Zamalek’s African Champions League draw revives group-stage fears and final hopes
Zamalek draws a tough African Champions League group with MC Alger, Club Africain and Young Africans, reigniting the club’s recent pattern of early exits. Since the tournament’s 2016 revamp, Zamalken has failed to advance past the group stage whenever faced a similar draw. The article by Elikplim Bokor examines the challenges ahead, historical precedents, and what the club must do to turn group‑stage anxiety into a realistic shot at the final.
US congressman defends Kylian Mbappe after China backlash over Mao comments
Real Madrid striker Kylian Mbappe sparks an international controversy after calling former Chinese leader Mao Zedong a dictator in a video, prompting fierce backlash in China. U.S. Representative John Moolenaar steps in, publicly defending the French captain and warning against politicizing sport. The dispute, detailed by AfricaSoccer.com, highlights how Mbappe’s remarks have moved far beyond the pitch, involving diplomatic tension and free‑speech debates.
Harry Kane’s sixth-place Ballon d’Or vote admitted as a mistake by Croatian journalist
Harry Kane wins the 2026 Ballon d’Or, but a controversy erupts over a jury misvote that placed Bayern Munich captain Thomas Müller sixth. Croatian journalist Dravko Reic, a France Football juror since 1992, admits he misjudged Kane’s performance, prompting questions about the voting process. The article, by Alansary on AfricaSoccer.com, details Reic’s admission and its impact on the final rankings.
Ronaldinho and Javier Mendez attend DF UNCAGED launch in Amman
Amman kicks off Mixed Martial Arts Week with the launch of the DF UNCAGED tournament, drawing a star‑studded crowd that includes world‑renowned MMA coach Javier Mendez and Brazilian football icon Ronaldinho. A press conference gathers fighters, coaches, international guests and media ahead of the competition, highlighting the city’s growing role in combat sports. The article, by Elias Boateng for AfricaSoccer.com, details the event’s high‑profile attendance and upcoming matches.
Al Ahly face Raja Casablanca as African group stage delivers heavyweight clash
Al Ahly and Raja Casablanca clash in the CAF Confederation Cup group stage, reigniting one of North Africa’s most storied rivalries. Both clubs, renowned for massive fanbases and historic tight contests, are set to face off after the draw placed them together. The article highlights the significance of their meetings and the excitement surrounding this heavyweight encounter.
Cote d’Ivoire U23 name 32-player squad for CAN preparation camp
Côte d’Ivoire U23 coach Sébastien Barnier announces a 32‑player, locally‑based squad for the team's second training camp ahead of the U23 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. The camp runs 2–5 November 2026 at Lycée Technique de Cocody in Abidjan, where the staff will finalize preparations for the upcoming qualification matches.
Sundowns, Al Ahly and Mazembe miss out as CAF Champions League hierarchy is shaken
The 2026‑27 CAF Champions League group stage sees three African powerhouses eliminated after unexpected preliminary round upsets. Defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns, who have featured in the last 11 group stages, fall to Wiliete. Egyptian giants Al Ahly and DR Congo's Mazembe also miss out, reshuffling the tournament hierarchy and opening the door for surprise qualifiers.
PSG eye winter move for Algeria youngster Ibrahim Maza after Kvaratskhelia injury
Paris Saint-Germain are lining up a winter bid for Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Ibrahim Maza after Khvicha Kvaratskhelia sustains a serious knee injury. The 20‑year‑old Algerian international, praised for his attacking flair, emerges as a key target to bolster PSG’s midfield ahead of the January window. The club’s scouting report highlights Maza’s recent form and potential to fill the creative void left by Kvaratskhelia’s absence.
Transfer news: PSG and Bayer Leverkusen battle for Ibrahim Maza
Paris Saint‑Germaux (PSG) step up their pursuit of Algerian attacking midfielder Ibrahim Maza as the January transfer window approaches, while Bayer Leverkusen fight to retain the highly rated youngster. PSG have placed Maza on their shortlist and view him as a potential cover for Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, signaling serious intent. Leverkusen, however, emphasize his importance to their squad and are reluctant to let him leave. The tug‑of‑war highlights the emerging talent race between a French giant and a German Bundesliga side.
PSL postpones seven fixtures because of local government elections
The Premier Soccer League has postponed all seven matches slated for Wednesday, 4 November, due to a clash with South Africa's local government elections. Kaizer Chiefs, who were set to host AmaZulu, confirmed the decision, which affects the entire round of fixtures. The postponement ensures teams avoid scheduling conflicts with the national vote.
Masilela expected to return for Orlando Pirates’ Soweto derby against Kaizer Chiefs
Orlando Pirates anticipate centre‑back Simphiwe Masilena’s return for Saturday’s high‑stakes Soweto Derby versus Kaizer Chiefs, after he missed the Carling Knockout Cup win that saw Pirates beat Milford FC 3‑0 to reach the quarter‑finals. With the Betway Premiership clash looming, head coach Samuel Ekow Amoasi Appiah confirms Masilena will be available, bolstering Pirates’ defence for the derby on October 28, 2026.
Maela backs Orlando Pirates to beat Chiefs in Soweto Derby
Former Orlando Pirates captain Innocent Maela predicts a decisive win for the defending champions over Kaizer Chiefs in Saturday’s Soweto Derby, saying the match will highlight the gap between a title‑contending side and one still finding form. Pirates sit second in the Betway Premiership, just one point shy of leaders Mamelodi Sundowns with a game in hand, while Chiefs lag behind. Maela’s confidence underscores the stakes ahead of the clash.
Orlando Pirates, TS Galaxy and Marumo Gallants coaches demand more after Carling Knockout matches
After Tuesday’s Carling Knockout fixtures, three Betway Premiership coaches slam their teams for sloppy play. Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou admits a 3-0 win over Milford FC is far from the intensity needed for a title push, citing poor decision‑making and defensive lapses. TS Galaxy and Marumo Gallants managers echo the criticism, insisting their squads must tighten up despite differing results. The article, by Alansary, details the coaches’ demands for higher standards ahead of the season’s next phases.
TS Galaxy turn to league fight after Carling Knockout Cup exit
Interim coach Esau Mtsweni says TS Galaxy’s 3-0 loss to Kaizer Chiefs in the Carling Knockout Cup at FNB Stadium on Oct. 27 shifts the Rockets’ focus to the Betway Premiership. While the cup exit ends their run, Mtsweni believes the setback could spark a stronger league push to climb the table.
Soccer Laduma previews Kaizer Chiefs, Orlando Pirates and South Africa’s rising stars
In the 1,498th edition of Soccer Laduma (Oct 29, 2026), Samuel Ekow Amoasi Appiah spotlights three key stories: the mounting pressure on Kaizer Chiefs coach Fernando Da Cruz as his long‑term plan is tested, the next career move for former Orlando Pirates captain Innocent Maela, and growing European interest in South Africa’s rising talent Relebohile Mofokeng. The preview offers insight into each club’s challenges and the prospects of the nation’s emerging stars.
Da Cruz backed by Kaizer Chiefs after CAF Confederation Cup exit
After Kaizer Chiefs bow out of the CAF Confederation Cup, head coach Fernando Da Cruz says the club’s public backing solidifies his role despite speculation about his future. Sporting Director Kaizer Motaung Jr. issued a statement reaffirming confidence in the French manager following the disappointing continental exit.
CAF president Motsepe to discuss future of African football at CNN Global Perspectives 2026
CAF president Dr. Patrice Motsepe will speak at CNN Global Perspectives 2026 in Doha on Thursday, Oct. 29, joining leaders from government, business and sport to debate football’s future. The high‑profile panel will focus on the development of African football, funding, infrastructure and competitive balance across the continent. Written by Sylvester Ntim for AfricaSoccer.com, the piece highlights Motsepe’s role in shaping policy and the strategic priorities he aims to push forward at the Doha summit.
“40 million Moroccans cheer for Lamine Yamal” – Mustapha Hadji
Moroccan football legend Mustapha Hadji says that despite Lamine Yamal's choice to represent Spain, up to 40 million Moroccans still support the Barcelona prodigy because of his heritage. Hadji highlights the emotional tie and national pride that keep Yamal popular in Morocco, even as he pursues a Spanish international career. The piece, by Sylvester Ntim for AfricaSoccer.com (Oct 28 2026), explores the cultural impact of Yamal’s dual‑national background and the ongoing fan enthusiasm.
Displaying entries 1,226-1,250
of the latest 1,250