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IOL News
an hour ago
- Sport
- IOL News
Bafana Bafana braced for Guinea face-off, looking for first CHAN tournament win
Bafana Bafana, coaches by Molefi Ntseki, will meet Guinea for the first time on Monday in CHAN history as both sides battle for crucial Group C points in Kampala. Photo: Backpagepix Image: Backpagepix Guinea's National Elephants and South Africa's Bafana Bafana will face off for the first time in the history of the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) on Monday. This match, at the Nelson Mandela Stadium in the bustling city of Kampala, will not only add a new chapter to the tournament's history but also mark an important moment for both teams as they aim to secure crucial Group C points. South Africa will become the 15th different opponent Guinea has faced in CHAN competition, while this fixture will represent the ninth team South Africa have met in the tournament. It will also be Guinea's third outing against a COSAFA nation, having previously faced Zambia twice. South Africa was back at work on Saturday, a day after sharing the spoils with Algeria in our opening match of the African Nations Championship in Kampala, Uganda, yesterday. Next up for the South Africans is the second Group C match against Guinea on Monday. — Bafana Bafana (@BafanaBafana) August 9, 2025 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 Bafana Bafana's coach, Molefi Ntseki, acknowledges the challenge presented by Guinea, who are known for their attacking flair and possess players who can turn the tide of the match at any moment. 'We will be going into this game fully aware that they are a very offensive team,' Ntseki stated. 'They've got some good individual players that can hurt you anytime, given a chance. We need to respect our opponents while focusing on how we want to play both offensively and defensively.' Ntseki highlighted specific concerns regarding Guinea's prowess in aerial duels and set-piece situations, underscoring the importance of discipline and strategy. 'We're aware that they have good headers of the ball, and that makes set-plays a critical area for us to manage,' he continued. 'Transition play is also a concern, especially with players like Aboubacar Bangoura, Alhassane Bangoura, and Bangaly Cisse in their ranks.' As for the tactical preparations, midfielder Keagan Dolly emphasised the significance of every match in this challenging group. 'We had a good match against Algeria, which served as our opener in the tournament. It has boosted our confidence,' he said. 'Now, we need to focus on ourselves and treat every game as a final, knowing that each one is important for our progression in the tournament.' With meticulous preparation off the field, Dolly insists that the key to success lies in adhering to their structure and executing their game plan effectively. 'The game isn't going to be easy. We've done our homework, and it's vital for us to perform well and achieve what we set out to do,' he added. Both teams come into this clash with contrasting fortunes. Guinea began their campaign with a 1-0 victory over Niger but suffered a setback with a heavy 3-0 defeat to co-hosts Uganda — their biggest margin of defeat at CHAN — which ended an impressive eight-match unbeaten run in open play. South Africa, ranked 56th in the world, salvaged a point in their opener with a 1-1 draw against 36th-ranked Algeria. This was the first time since 2014 that Bafana Bafana failed to win their opening match. They have scored in all seven of their CHAN group-stage matches to date, though they have often conceded as well. Guinea attempted 384 passes in their match against Uganda — their highest total at the current finals — with Aboubacar Bangoura creating four goal-scoring chances. South Africa's Thabiso Kutumela netted his second CHAN goal from their first shot on target against Algeria, underlining the firepower they possess. For Guinea, defeat would mean back-to-back group-stage losses for only the second time in their history. South Africa, meanwhile, will aim for their first win of the tournament and a step closer to reaching the quarter-finals for the second time. Under stand-in coach Molefi Ntseki, Bafana Bafana will be determined to make this historic encounter one to remember.
CAF
9 hours ago
- Sport
- CAF
Uganda and Niger set for CHAN's make-or-break night in Kampala
On Monday night in Kampala, the Mandela National Stadium will become more than a venue — it will be a stage where two nations fight to keep their TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) dreams alive. Uganda, fuelled by the roar of their home crowd, will face Niger in a Group C showdown that could end one team's campaign before it has truly begun. The stakes are stark. For Uganda, victory could propel them toward the knockout rounds. For Niger, defeat could send them home. Around 300 travelling Nigerien fans are expected to bring their colours, chants and drums into a cauldron that will be dominated by thousands of Ugandan voices. Both teams know the margins are razor thin, and both coaches have already revealed their tactical blueprints for this decisive encounter. Byekwaso Eyes Tactical Precision and Fan Power Uganda's head coach Morley Byekwaso says his team will not simply repeat the approach that secured their win over Guinea — instead, they will tailor their game to blunt Niger's threats. 'No game is the same. Each match presents different challenges, but we will try to maintain the core of the team that was structurally and positionally solid, Byekwaso said. "However, tactics will have to change a bit because Niger's style of play is different. There might be some adjustments on the field, but those who gave their best will be recognized tomorrow.' Byekwaso knows that the crowd's energy was instrumental in their last outing and has issued a rallying cry. 'It means a lot for us to have the support of our fan base. In the game against Guinea, they gave us the best possible support and we repaid them with the win. "This time, we ask them to come in large numbers, as this match is decisive for our hopes of qualification.' All previously injured players are available again, but Byekwaso says the starting line-up will be finalised only after the final medical checks. Kizito Warns Against Complacency Defender Gavin Mugweri Kizito, one of Uganda's most experienced figures, is determined to keep the team's feet firmly on the ground despite facing opponents who lost their opening match. 'We were also in that position after the first game. We will not assume it will be easy just because they lost. We are mentally, physically, and technically prepared for tomorrow, and determined to get a good result.' His focus is not just on winning but on maintaining a clean sheet. 'The most important thing is to win. Only afterwards can we think about goal difference. We have to win and, at the same time, avoid conceding goals because that affects the team's spirit and confidence.' Kizito, too, made an appeal to the supporters: 'Once again, I ask the public to make a strong presence in the stadium and help us win tomorrow's game. They were important and helped lift the team's morale. Please come and support us!' Doulla's Blueprint: Fix the Mistakes, Face the Noise On the Nigerien side, coach Harouna Doulla is well aware that his side's hopes hinge on getting it right this time. After the disappointment of their opening defeat, he is calling for discipline, pressure and a sharp use of their strengths. 'We have to rectify some mistakes we made and pressure our opponent, using our strengths. We have to focus. We are prepared to face the fans, and that is good for the spectacle of the game," the Niger coach said. Doulla knows from experience that Ugandan home crowds can be intimidating, but he sees that as a challenge to be embraced. 'In all our previous encounters against Uganda, the fans' pressure is very strong, but we will contain that pressure and fight with our fighting spirit. We have never lost in this competition, but now we have to write a new story, and the players must free themselves and show their potential.' The coach says preparations in recent days have been intense and focused, and he also took time to praise the organisation of the tournament so far. Issoufou Boubacar: Belief in the Face of Pressure Niger's captain, Abdoul Kahar Issoufou Boubacar, wants his team to approach the match with both caution and optimism. 'We have prepared for this game well in advance. It is true we were caught by surprise and lost the first game, but that is football," Boubacar said "Against Uganda, we will play cautiously and focused so as not to make mistakes. He also offered a message to Niger's supporters back home and in Kampala. 'For this important game, I would like to send a message of support: we have to be optimistic and hold our heads high. In Niger, there is a saying that nothing is impossible.' A Contest Where Details Decide Both sides enter this match with their tournament ambitions at stake and their reputations on the line. Uganda will count on tactical flexibility and the undeniable lift of home support, while Niger will try to draw on their resilience and the motivation of proving doubters wrong. For Uganda, a win could turn them into serious contenders for a place in the knockout stage. For Niger, a victory could spark a remarkable turnaround. In a match where every tackle, pass and decision matters, it may be mental discipline as much as physical performance that decides who keeps their CHAN journey alive.
CAF
9 hours ago
- Sport
- CAF
Kaporal brace fires Angola to second in Group A after late win over Zambia
Published: Sunday, 10 August 2025 Substitute Kaporal came off the bench to score twice in the final 11 minutes as Angola staged a stunning comeback to beat Zambia 2-1 and jump to second place in Group A at the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) PAMOJA 2024. The result breathes new life into the Palancas Negras' campaign, lifting them to four points from three matches — three behind leaders Kenya — while Zambia remain rooted to the bottom without a point after two games. Earlier in the day, co-hosts Kenya had edged Morocco 1-0 at Nyayo National Stadium, a result that left the group finely balanced heading into the evening kick-off. Zambia Draw First Blood In a cagey opening 45 minutes, both teams struggled to turn possession into clear chances. Zambia's Kelvin Kampamba threatened early, forcing Angola keeper Neblú into two saves inside the first minute, while Anderson Cruz and Vidinho saw efforts narrowly miss the target for the Angolans. The deadlock was broken in the 73rd minute when Dominic Chanda pounced on a loose ball in the area following a set-piece to fire Zambia in front. It was the Chipolopolo's first goal of the tournament and looked set to spark their revival after a disappointing 3-1 defeat to DR Congo in their opener. Kaporal's Game-Changing Cameo Pedro Gonçalves reacted quickly, introducing Kaporal to inject urgency into Angola's attack. The move paid instant dividends. In the 79th minute, Kaporal finished coolly from a Gogoró pass to draw Angola level. Seven minutes later, he struck again, this time reacting fastest in a crowded box to slam home the winner. Zambia, stunned by the turnaround, pushed forward in search of an equaliser but were met with stubborn Angolan defending and wasteful finishing. Jackson Kampamba fired wide from close range in the 76th minute, while Chanda's stoppage-time header failed to trouble Neblú. Standings Shake-Up Angola's win not only keeps them alive in the tournament but also dramatically changes the complexion of Group A. Updated Group A standings after today's matches: Kenya – 7 points (3 matches) Angola – 4 points (3 matches) Morocco – 3 points (2 matches) DR Congo – 3 points (2 matches) Zambia – 0 points (2 matches) With two games remaining for most sides, Angola are now in a strong position to push for a quarter-final berth, while Zambia must win both of their remaining matches to stand any chance of progressing. What It Means For Angola, this was a statement win under pressure. They had come into the match knowing anything less than victory could spell the end of their campaign. Gonçalves' men showed composure to recover from a goal down and ruthlessness to seal all three points. For Zambia, the defeat is a bitter blow. Avram Grant's side looked in control after taking the lead but once again failed to manage key moments, a recurring problem in their recent CHAN history. What's Next Angola now face DR Congo in what could be a decisive showdown for qualification. Zambia's next task is no easier — a clash against in-form hosts Kenya, who are yet to lose in the tournament. If Angola can carry the momentum from Kaporal's heroics into their next fixture, the Palancas Negras may yet transform a stuttering start into a deep run in CHAN 2024.
CAF
21 hours ago
- Sport
- CAF
Win or Bust: Angola face Zambia in high-stakes CHAN clash
Published: Sunday, 10 August 2025 The air around Nyayo National Stadium on Sunday evening will be thick with tension and hope in equal measure. Angola's Palancas Negras and Zambia's Chipolopolo find themselves in a high-stakes clash that could define their entire TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 campaigns. For Angola, the equation is painfully simple — anything less than victory could spell an early exit. For Zambia, it's a chance to rebound and keep their dream alive. Angola's Fight to Survive After a stuttering start — a 2-0 loss to two-time champions followed by a 1-1 draw against hosts Kenya — Angola have just one point to show for two games. Their margin for error has vanished, and coach Pedro Goncalves knows it. 'We know the situation but we are calm as a team. The most important thing is to remain calm and approach the match with positivity,' said the tactician. "We had a lot of good things we did against Kenya which I know can help us if we replicate against Zambia. They are a really good and solid side and we have to approach them with caution." Goncalves insists his team must be bolder in attack and take their chances early. A win would not only keep them alive but could propel them towards the knockout stage. Quinito's Rallying Cry For defender Joaquim 'Quinito' Balanga, the mission is clear — forget the past, focus on the now. 'Of course no pressure but we approach the game knowing how much we need a win. We want to remain in the competition and for this to happen, we have to give our best for a win,' Balanga emphasised. It's a mindset rooted in resilience, one Angola will need in abundance to break down Zambia's defence. Zambia's Chance for Redemption Zambia arrive in Nairobi with their own troubles. A 2-0 defeat to DR Congo in their opening match left them playing catch-up in the group. But coach Avram Grant remains the voice of optimism. 'In football, and in life, there is always something called a new day and new hope. This is the same thing I told to my players that we forget what happened in the first game and give our effort in the second match where we have a chance to improve,' Grant explained. "We conceded from a throw-in then from a counter attack against DRC and definitely these are areas we have looked at to improve and do better." His experience at the highest levels of the game will be crucial in steadying the Zambian ship. Captain Chongo's Call to Action For skipper Kabaso Chongo, this is an opportunity to put things right. 'It was a bit scrappy how we started but always, in the first game, not everything goes to plan. However, we have now picked rhythm and we know where we were short and have worked on it,' Chongo said. "We know Angola is a really good team. We watched some of their games and we know what to expect. As players this tournament offers us a huge opportunity and we want to keep playing and win game by game." A Battle with No Margin for Error Both teams know the stakes. For Angola, it's win or go home. For Zambia, it's a chance to turn the tide and move a step closer to the knockout rounds. When the whistle blows at Nyayo National Stadium, expect nothing less than a fierce contest between two sides fighting for survival.
CAF
a day ago
- Sport
- CAF
Mzize the Goal Machine: Tanzania's relentless striker with eyes on CHAN glory
Published: Sunday, 10 August 2025 When the lights shone brightest on Saturday night, Clement Francis Mzize answered the call. The Tanzanian striker didn't just score — he roared, delivering two goals inside 20 minutes to sink Madagascar and send the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium into scenes of sheer euphoria. By the end of the night, the scoreboard read 2-1 to the hosts, and Mzeezi had been crowned TotalEnergies Man of the Match. For Tanzania, it was more than a victory — it was a third successive group-stage win and a historic ticket to the knockout rounds of the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024. For Mzize, it was personal glory, national pride, and the promise of more to come. 'I Thank God for This Opportunity' Still beaming in the post-match press room, Mzize could barely contain his gratitude. 'I thank God for this opportunity to be in this place and to be chosen as Man of the Match. It is great that we continue moving forward in the competition, and we hope to go far in the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship 2024.' The words carried the sincerity of a man who knows the value of such moments — and the hunger to create more. Decisive Brilliance in a Tough Battle Madagascar proved a resilient opponent, their physicality and tactical organisation making life difficult for Tanzania's attack. But Mzize's sharpness in front of goal was the difference. 'We were able to move in the match despite the strength of the Madagascar team and its players. We managed, with difficulty, to reach the opponent's goal and score two goals.' His brace didn't just break the deadlock — it broke Madagascar's resistance, giving Tanzania the control they needed to see out the game. A Historic Moment for the Taifa Stars For Mzize, the magnitude of Tanzania's achievement was not lost. 'Yes, we are lucky to participate in this competition. We have never reached the knockout stages of the CHAN before, and this time we managed, deservedly, to get past the group stage. Thanks to everyone and to the fans who gave us the drive to reach the quarter-finals.' For a nation passionate about football but still chasing a major continental breakthrough, this moment was history in the making. Tanzania's Most Dangerous Weapon With his lethal instincts and unerring composure in front of goal, Clement Francis Mzize has emerged as one of CHAN 2024's must-watch players. His two-goal heroics against Madagascar were no fluke, but a statement — that Tanzania possess a striker capable of firing them into the latter stages, maybe even the final, and perhaps to their first-ever continental crown.
