Category: Football

The first round of AFCON 2025 delivered moments of brilliance, drama, and early statement performances. As the dust settles on Matchday 1, CAF has recognized the standout performers with the official TotalEnergies Men of the Match awards; a snapshot of players who not only influenced results but also left a mark on the opening chapter of Africa’s premier tournament.

Here’s a breakdown of the Players of the Match from the opening 12 fixtures across Groups A–F:

Morocco vs Comoros — Brahim Díaz

Morocco opened their campaign with a controlled 2–0 win over Comoros. Brahim Díaz impressed with his composure and attacking intelligence, orchestrating Morocco’s forward play and constantly threatening the Comoros defense.

Mali vs Zambia — Lassine Sinayoko

A 1–1 stalemate saw Mali earn a hard-fought point against Zambia. Lassine Sinayoko stood out, linking midfield and attack seamlessly, providing the creativity that kept Mali competitive until the final whistle.

South Africa vs Angola — Lyle Foster

South Africa edged Angola 2–1 in a tightly contested match. Lyle Foster’s pace and incisive runs proved decisive, earning him the nod as the match’s standout contributor.

Egypt vs Zimbabwe — Omar Marmoush

Egypt’s 2–1 win over Zimbabwe was marked by sharp attacking movements, with Omar Marmoush constantly finding pockets of space. His pressing, vision, and ability to unlock the Zimbabwean defense made him an undeniable pick for Player of the Match.

DR Congo vs Benin — Théo Bongonda

In a low-scoring 1–0 encounter, Théo Bongonda delivered a performance that proved the difference for DR Congo. His direct runs, skill, and decisive link-up play created the winning edge.

Senegal vs Botswana — Nicholas Jackson

Senegal’s 3–0 demolition of Botswana had Nicholas Jackson at the heart of every dangerous move. Jackson’s control of the midfield and relentless energy set the tone for Senegal’s commanding display.

Nigeria vs Tanzania — Semi Ajayi

Nigeria’s opening 2–1 victory over Tanzania highlighted defensive solidity paired with attacking threat. Semi Ajayi’s leadership at the back and timely interventions made him an instant game-changer for the Super Eagles.

Tunisia vs Uganda — Elias Achouri

Tunisia secured a 3–1 win against Uganda, with Elias Achouri’s influence felt across all attacking phases. His movement, vision, and link-up play consistently stretched Uganda’s defense.

Burkina Faso vs Equatorial Guinea — Edmond Tapsoba

Burkina Faso’s 2–1 win was a blend of resilience and efficiency. Edmond Tapsoba anchored the defense while initiating crucial transitions, earning him well-deserved recognition.

Algeria vs Sudan — Riyad Mahrez

Algeria’s 3–0 win over Sudan saw Riyad Mahrez in vintage form. His dribbling, creativity, and occasional magic on the ball kept the Sudanese defense on high alert, demonstrating why he remains a key figure for Les Fennecs.

Ivory Coast vs Mozambique — Amad Diallo

A slender 1–0 victory for Ivory Coast featured Amad Diallo’s clever positioning and decisive movement, constantly troubling Mozambique and setting up the lone goal that clinched all three points.

Cameroon vs Rwanda — Bryan Mbeumo

A 1–0 result and a performance that didn’t rely on volume just struggle for the best. Everything Mbeumo did had consequence: first touch, transition choices, final-third awareness. Cameroon needed leadership in execution, not speeches. He provided it with a wonderful assist for  Karl Etta Eyong  that sealed the game. 

From attacking flair to defensive brilliance, the first round has already given fans a glimpse of Africa’s emerging talents and established stars in peak form.

Stay tuned for updates on the final Matchday 1 MOTM and deeper analysis of every standout performance from this AFCON edition.

The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON 2025) served up another intense round of fixtures on December 24, as four nations Burkina Faso, Algeria, Ivory Coast, and Cameroon picked up crucial victories that immediately shift the tone of their group campaigns.

From late drama to composed finishes, the day highlighted how quickly momentum can change in tournament football.

Burkina Faso 2–1 Equatorial Guinea 

Burkina Faso produced the most dramatic moment of the day, sealing a 2–1 comeback win in the dying minutes. Equatorial Guinea looked set for all three points until the Stallions flipped the script in stoppage time.

A 95th-minute equaliser sparked the turnaround, before a towering late header completed the comeback. The result instantly places Burkina Faso among the teams to watch, not just for points but for mentality.

Algeria 3–0 Sudan

Algeria were the most dominant side of the matchday, claiming a 3–0 win over Sudan with confidence and control from start to finish.

A brace from Riyad Mahrez set the tempo, before a late third goal wrapped up the performance. Sudan struggled to contain Algeria’s midfield rotations and wide combinations, allowing the North African giants to start fast in their group.

Ivory Coast 1–0 Mozambique 

Reigning champions Ivory Coast opened their title defence with a 1–0 win against Mozambique, choosing efficiency over spectacle. The Elephants controlled key moments rather than the full tempo of the match, and a second-half strike made the difference.

Mozambique defended bravely and forced Ivory Coast into careful build-up play, but the champions’ composure in decisive moments held firm.

Cameroon 1–0 Gabon

Cameroon joined the winners’ column with a 1–0 win against Gabon, in a match defined by discipline rather than chaos. The Indomitable Lions capitalised on their best chance of the game and then managed the rhythm well enough to close out the result.

Gabon had opportunities of their own but lacked the precision needed in the final third.

The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 continued with a packed matchday as Senegal, Nigeria, DR Congo, and Tunisia all picked up important victories, further shaping the early group-stage.

From dominant displays to hard-fought wins, the day’s action highlighted the competitiveness already defining the tournament.

Senegal vs Botswana

Senegal produced one of the most convincing performances of the day, defeating Botswana 3–0 in their Group D opener.

Nicolas Jackson led the charge with two goals, while Chérif Ndiaye added a late third to complete a comfortable win. Senegal controlled the match throughout and quickly established themselves as early favourites in the group.

Nigeria vs Tanzania in Tight Group C Clash

The Super Eagles of Nigeria opened their AFCON 2025 campaign with a 2–1 win over Tanzania in a closely contested Group C encounter.

Nigeria took the lead through Semi Ajayi, but Tanzania responded to level the score and push the match into a tense battle. The decisive moment arrived in the second half when Ademola Lookman scored the winner, securing all three points for the Super Eagles.

DR Congo Narrow Victory Over Benin

In Group D, DR Congo claimed a vital 1–0 victory against Benin in a match decided by fine margins.

An early strike from Théo Bongonda proved enough, as the Leopards remained disciplined defensively to protect their lead and claim maximum points.

Tunisia vs Uganda 3–1 Win

Tunisia completed the day’s action with an impressive 3–1 victory over Uganda in Group C.

The Carthage Eagles showed attacking intent and control, scoring three times to overwhelm Uganda despite resistance from the Cranes. The result gives Tunisia a strong start and places them level on points with Nigeria in the group standings.

As AFCON 2025 continues, attention now turns to the next round of group fixtures, where consistency and squad depth will be tested.

The Super Eagles of Nigeria have officially received the houses and land grants promised to them following their impressive run at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Côte d’Ivoire.

The presentation of the documents took place on Monday at the team’s camp in Fez, Morocco, where the players are currently preparing for the 2025 AFCON tournament. The development puts an end to months of public discussion over the delayed rewards.

After Nigeria finished as runners-up at AFCON 2023, the federal government had announced a reward package for the players and officials in recognition of their performance. The package included housing allocations, land grants, and national honours.

This week, officials of the National Sports Commission (NSC), alongside representatives of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), handed over the certificates and title documents to the players, confirming that the pledge has now been fulfilled.

Each member of the AFCON squad received documents for a housing unit as well as plots of land, with locations spread across Abuja and Lagos, according to reports..

In addition to the property rewards, the Super Eagles players were also presented with certificates of national honours, most notably the Member of the Order of the Niger (MON), awarded for their contribution to Nigerian football and national pride.

The honours were first announced shortly after the AFCON final in early 2024, but formal documentation has now been completed.

Boost Ahead of AFCON 2025

The timing of the gesture is significant, coming just days before Nigeria’s opening fixtures at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. Beyond the material value, the fulfilment serves as a morale boost for the squad as they aim to go one step further than their AFCON 2023 finish.

Nigeria lost the 2023 final 2–1 to hosts Côte d’Ivoire, narrowly missing out on a fourth continental title. As preparations continue in Morocco, hopes remain high that the Super Eagles can convert past lessons into success on the AFCON stage.

Egypt opened their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 campaign with a 2–1 victory over Zimbabwe in a high-intensity Group B clash at the Stade Adrar in Agadir. The Pharaohs showcased resilience and tactical discipline to come from behind and secure all three points.

The match started with Zimbabwe taking the game to the seven-time champions. In the 20th minute, Prince Dube capitalized on a defensive lapse to give the Warriors a surprising early lead. The goal energized Zimbabwe, forcing Egypt to adjust and push forward.

Despite early pressure, Egypt struggled to break through Zimbabwe’s organized defence. Their persistence paid off in the 64th minute, when Omar Marmoush produced a composed finish to bring the Pharaohs back on level terms. The equalizer shifted momentum, giving Egypt confidence to control the rest of the match.

As Zimbabwe searched for a second goal, Egypt struck on the counter in the 82nd minute. Mohamed Salah delivered a decisive finish, sending the Egyptian fans into celebration and ultimately sealing the win. After taking the lead.

Final Score

Egypt 2–1 Zimbabwe

Goals: Prince Dube (20’) – Zimbabwe | Omar Marmoush (64’), Mohamed Salah (82’) – Egypt

South Africa opened their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 campaign with a narrow 2–1 victory against Angola, claiming all three points in a competitive Group B encounter.

The match was evenly balanced for long spells, but South Africa showed greater composure in key moments to edge past a determined Angolan side.

Early Pressure Pays Off

Bafana Bafana started on the front foot, pressing high and moving the ball quickly. Their positive approach paid off in the 21st minute, when Oswin Appollis finished off a well-worked attacking move to give South Africa the lead.

The goal settled South Africa into the game, but Angola responded with confidence rather than caution.

Angola Hit Back Before the Break

Angola grew into the contest and were rewarded in the 35th minute. After sustained pressure, Show found space inside the box and calmly converted to bring the scores level.

The equaliser shifted momentum, and both teams went into halftime locked at 1–1, with little to separate them.

Late Winner Seals It for Bafana Bafana

The second half was tense and tactical, with chances at both ends. As the game edged toward a draw, South Africa found the breakthrough they needed.

In the 79th minute, Bafana Bafana struck the decisive goal, restoring their lead and sending their supporters into celebration. From that point on, South Africa managed the game smartly, limiting Angola’s chances and seeing out the result.

Final Score

South Africa 2–1 Angola

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially unveiled the African Nations League, a brand new annual competition aimed at showcasing Africa’s top national teams and players. The announcement, made by CAF President Patrice Motsepe in Rabat, marks a major restructure in African football, alongside changes to the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) calendar.

What Is the African Nations League?

The African Nations League is set to be an annual senior national team tournament, designed to give CAF member nations more competitive fixtures outside the AFCON cycle. CAF describes it as a “world-class senior national team competition” that will feature the best African players, including stars based in top international leagues.

This competition is part of CAF’s broader strategy to provide more regular, meaningful football for national teams, increase exposure for African players, and boost commercial opportunities for the continent’s football ecosystem.

Structure and Timing

While CAF has confirmed the launch, the inaugural season is expected to kick off in 2029. The tournament will reportedly feature all 54 CAF member associations, organized into regional groups across North, East, West, Central, and Southern Africa.

Matches are expected to take place during FIFA international windows, with a finals phase determining the annual champion. By structuring the league this way, CAF aims to align with the global football calendar while reducing conflicts with major club competitions.

AFCON Calendar Restructure

The African Nations League is closely linked to CAF’s decision to move AFCON to a four-year cycle, starting after the 2028 edition. Previously held every two years, AFCON’s shift creates a gap in the football calendar, which the new league will now fill.

According to CAF, this ensures that African national team football remains exciting and competitive every year, keeping fans engaged even in AFCON off-years.

CAF President Patrice Motsepe highlighted that the league would offer “an annual platform for Africa’s best players to compete at the highest level,” reinforcing the continent’s growing influence in world football.

Mali and Zambia played out a thrilling 1–1 draw in their Africa Cup of Nations 2025 Group A match at the Stade Mohammed V, Casablanca. The game was a mix of tactical battles, late drama, and moments of individual brilliance.

The first half ended goalless, with both sides cautious but creating glimpses of attacking potential. Mali’s persistence paid off in the 61st minute when Lassine Sinayoko capitalized on a corner, heading the ball past the Zambian goalkeeper to give the Eagles the lead.

After scoring, Mali controlled possession and looked comfortable, but Zambia was far from done.

Zambia showed tremendous resilience and refused to settle for defeat. Their efforts were rewarded in stoppage time, as Patson Daka rose above the defense to head in a dramatic equalizer. The goal stunned Mali and sparked celebrations for Zambia, salvaging a crucial point from a challenging game.

Key Takeaways

• Mali dominated possession and looked dangerous on the break, but finishing let them down in crucial moments.
• Zambia’s late equalizer highlights their fighting spirit and ability to capitalize on mistakes.
• Both teams will now look to build on this result as they continue their Group A campaigns, knowing every point counts in the race for the knockout stages.

Final Score

Mali 1–1 Zambia

Goals: Lassine Sinayoko (61’) – Mali | Patson Daka (90+3’) – Zambia

Morocco began their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign with a solid 2–0 victory over Comoros, sending an early warning to the rest of the continent about their title ambitions.

After a tense first half that ended goalless, the Atlas Lions showed their quality in the second half, scoring twice to secure all three points.

The opening 45 minutes were tightly contested. Morocco dominated possession and controlled the tempo, but Comoros remained compact and disciplined at the back. Clear chances were limited, and both teams went into halftime without a goal.

Despite Morocco’s attacking depth, Comoros frustrated their opponents with organised defending and quick transitions, forcing Morocco to remain patient.

The breakthrough finally came in the 55th minute, when Brahim Díaz found the back of the net. The Real Madrid forward calmly finished after sustained pressure from Morocco, lifting the weight off his team’s shoulders.

The goal immediately shifted the momentum of the game, with Morocco growing in confidence and Comoros struggling to regain control.

Morocco wrapped up the win in the 74th minute through Ayoub El Kaabi, who produced a stunning overhead kick to double the lead. The goal stood out as one of the early highlights of the tournament and effectively ended Comoros’ hopes of a comeback.

This win gives Morocco a strong start in their AFCON group, reinforcing their status as one of the tournament favourites. With attacking depth, defensive stability, and individual brilliance on display, the Atlas Lions will be confident heading into their next fixture.

For Comoros, the result was a tough opening, but their defensive discipline in the first half showed they are capable of competing at this level if they improve their attacking output.

Final Score

Morocco 2–0 Comoros

Goals: Brahim Díaz (55’), Ayoub El Kaabi (74’)

Follow Streamdorm Sports for more updates on this AFCON

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) Awards celebrate the exceptional talents and achievements in African football. Among the most prestigious honours is the African Player of the Year award, recognizing the continent’s top footballer annually.

Nigerian Recipients of the African Player of the Year Award

Nigeria has a rich history of producing world-class footballers who have been honoured with this prestigious award . As of December 16, 2024, Nigerian players have secured the African Player of the Year award eight times, with Ademola Lookman being the latest winner.

Here is a list of Nigerian players who have won the award:

Rashidi Yekini (1993)

Yekini was the first Nigerian to win the award in 1993, following his remarkable performances that led Nigeria to victory in the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations and a strong showing at the 1994 FIFA World Cup. The legendary footballer passed on May 4th, 2012.

Emmanuel Amunike (1994)

Amunike clinched the title in 1994 after playing a pivotal role in Nigeria’s 1994 Africa Cup of Nations triumph and contributing significantly to the national team’s success.

Nwankwo Kanu (1996, 1999)

Kanu is a two-time recipient, winning in 1996 and 1999. His exceptional skills were evident during his tenure with Ajax, Inter Milan, and Arsenal, as well as his contributions to Nigeria’s Olympic gold medal in 1996.

Victor Ikpeba (1997)

Ikpeba earned the award in 1997, following impressive performances with AS Monaco and the Nigerian national team, particularly during the 1998 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

Victor Osimhen (2023)

Osimhen was honored in 2023 after a stellar season with Napoli, where he played a crucial role in their Serie A triumph, and his consistent goal-scoring for the Nigerian national team.

Ademola Lookman (2024)

On December 16, 2024, Lookman became the seventh Nigerian to receive the award. His outstanding year included a hat-trick in Atalanta’s Europa League final victory and significant contributions to Nigeria’s journey to the Africa Cup of Nations final, where he scored three goals.

Ademola Lookman’s remarkable year

Ademola Lookman’s achievements in 2024 have been nothing short of extraordinary. The 27-year-old forward, who plays for Atalanta in Italy’s Serie A, was instrumental in the club’s success, notably scoring a hat-trick in the Europa League final. His domestic league performance was equally impressive, with 17 goals last season and 11 goals in the current campaign. On the international stage, Lookman role has been pivotal in Nigeria’s progression to the Africa Cup of Nations final, contributing three crucial goals during the tournament. 

Upon receiving the award, Lookman expressed immense pride and encouraged perseverance in pursuing dreams despite setbacks. His recognition marks a continuation of Nigeria’s legacy in African football, inspiring future generations of Nigerian footballers to strive for excellence on both continental and global stages.