Latest news with #TotalEnergiesCAFAFCON
CAF
2 days ago
- Sport
- CAF
COSAFA Cup 2025: The perfect tune-up for TotalEnergies CAF AFCON Morocco 2025 contenders
The COSAFA Cup in Bloemfontein, South Africa is more than just a regional tournament—it's a crucial preparation platform for eight teams heading to the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025. Southern African national teams are gearing up for another exciting edition of the COSAFA Cup, set to be hosted in Bloemfontein, South Africa between 4 – 15 June. This year's edition carries even more significance for 8 of the 14 participating nations, who will not only be aiming at lifting the regional title, but fine-tuning their squads ahead of two crucial CAF competitions set for later this year. Angola, Botswana, Comoros, South Africa, Mozambique, Zambia, Zimbabwe and East African invitational side, Tanzania head to the regional tournament with the aim of strategically using this competition to refine their tactics, assess squad depth, and build momentum this year's TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025. Of the seven COSAFA nations that have qualified for the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON, only South Africa and Zambia have went on to lift to continental crown, while East African nation, Tanzania are yet to lift the coveted TotalEnergies CAF AFCON title. South Africa, drawn in Group A alongside Zimbabwe and Mozambique, will be eager to make the most of home advantage. Coach Hugo Broos, who guided Bafana Bafana to an impressive podium finish in Cote d'Ivoire last year has emphasised the importance of squad rotation, and the COSAFA Cup provides the perfect setting to test different combinations. Zimbabwe, returning to the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON finals after missing the last edition, will focus on squad cohesion and tactical discipline. Mozambique, last year's COSAFA Cup bronze medallists, will aim to sharpen their attacking play and defensive organization. Angola, Botswana, and Zambia find themselves in Group D of the COSAFA Cup, making it one of the most competitive pools that will work toward their advantage in their fine-tuning of their squads. Angola, the defending COSAFA champions, will want to ensure their defensive stability matches their offensive prowess. Botswana, eager to make a statement, will focus on improving their attacking efficiency and defensive resilience. Zambia, a former TotalEnergies CAF AFCON champion (2012), has a rich history in the competition and will look to use their experience to gain an edge. Comoros and Tanzania, drawn together in Group C, will also benefit from the COSAFA Cup experience. Comoros, a rising force in African football, will aim to strengthen their squad chemistry and tactical discipline. Tanzania's inclusion in the tournament adds an interesting dynamic, as they are preparing for both the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON and CAF African Nations Championship later in the year. Beyond individual team preparations, the COSAFA Cup serves as a platform for players to showcase their talent and stake their claim for a spot in the final AFCON squads. Coaches will have the chance to experiment with formations, test new combinations, and assess their squad's adaptability under tournament conditions. The intensity of the matches will provide a realistic preview of the challenges awaiting them in Morocco.
CAF
16-05-2025
- Sport
- CAF
TotalEnergies CAF U-20 AFCON Final: Morocco, South Africa to lock horns in a 1997 repeat Final
Twenty-eight years after their first TotalEnergies CAF U-20 AFCON continental showdown in the final, Morocco and South Africa will meet once again in a repeat of the 1997 final when they clash on Sunday in the TotalEnergies CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations title decider Egypt. That 1997 encounter ended in a narrow 1-0 victory for Morocco, sealing their first and only TotalEnergies CAF U-20 AFCON crown. Now, nearly three decades later, the Young Atlas Lions will be aiming to recapture that historic success, while South Africa are determined to turn the tables and claim their maiden continental title at this level. Both teams punched their tickets to the final with gritty 1-0 wins in Thursday's semi-finals. South Africa saw off Nigeria thanks to a header from Michael Smith, while Morocco overcame tournament hosts Egypt, courtesy of a composed finish from Jones El Abdellaoui. Morocco have impressed with their defensive solidity and tactical cohesion, boasting a run of clean sheets in the knockout stages. Led by a confident backline and opportunistic forwards, they carry momentum and the weight of history into Sunday's clash. South Africa, meanwhile, have grown in strength as the tournament has progressed. Their victory over a highly-rated Nigerian side was a statement of intent, and coach Vela Khumalo's charges will be desperate to lift the trophy that narrowly eluded them in 1997, just a year after their seniors lifted the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON on home soil. With continental glory, pride, and redemption at stake, the final is poised to deliver a captivating battle between two nations with unfinished business on the TotalEnergies CAF U-20 AFCON stage.
CAF
10-04-2025
- Sport
- CAF
TotalEnergies CAF U-17 AFCON – Morocco vs South Africa: The Lion Cubs take on skilful Amajimbos
Having qualified without conceding a single goal, Morocco approaches their quarter-final against South Africa with both ambition and caution. In front of them stand a determined Amajimbos, ready to bring down the host nation. At home, in a buzzing El Bachir Stadium in Mohammedia, Morocco aims to cement its status as favourites. Unbeaten, solid at the back, and creative up front, the Lion Cubs impressed in the group stage. But in the quarter-finals, against a South African side hungry for an upset, there's no room for error. "We're entering a different kind of competition', admits Morocco coach Nabil Baha. "It's now knockout football. We need to stay clear-headed and play with intensity. We respect South Africa, but we don't adapt to anyone. It's up to them to find the answers. South Africa out to overcome Morocco… Again The shadow of the senior TotalEnergies CAF AFCON looms over this clash. Back in January, South Africa knocked Morocco out. And U-17 coach Vela Khumalo hasn't forgotten: "Our senior team did it, our Banyana Banyana (women's team) did it too. Why not us? Morocco is strong, but we've studied their game closely. We want to cause an upset', said Khumalo. A Clash of Styles This quarter-final pits two footballing philosophies against each other. Morocco: structured, patient, confident in their strength. South Africa: more direct, attacking, and unpredictable with their skill up front. "We were too soft defensively in the group stage. We've corrected that. Morocco is well-organised – but so are we. We're not here to be walkovers." Physically, South Africa hope to leverage their freshness and pressing game. Morocco, on the other hand, will rely on their well-oiled patterns and dominant midfield. The Nation's Expectation Morocco is playing at home. And while that's undeniably an advantage, it also comes with added expectations. "We want to bring this trophy home for our people', insists player Daoues. But coach Baha offers a more measured view: "Yes, there's more pressure – but also more support. The crowd can lift us. It's up to us to rise to the occasion'.
CAF
26-03-2025
- Sport
- CAF
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (Gabon): 'I want to win the Africa Cup of Nations'
At 35, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang proves he is far from losing his shine. Still as fast, sharp, and determined, he remains one of the most feared forwards, capable of making a difference at any moment. Just like his brace against Kenya (2-1) on Match Day 6 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, which earned the Panthers three crucial points, while keeping pressure on Côte d'Ivoire, another top team in Group F. A campaign that promises to be decisive for the future of Gabon, with high-stakes matches to secure a place in the final stages of the competition. This qualification is the thread running through 2025, leading Gabon to Morocco—a highly anticipated return to the continental stage after missing the Ivorian edition of the Africa Cup of Nations. Thierry Mouyouma's men, buoyed by Aubameyang's impressive form, are determined to make a strong impression. The lethal forward sat down with CAFOnline to talk about his ambitions for the upcoming TotalEnergies CAF AFCON. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Gabon finds itself in Group F, alongside Cameroon, Côte d'Ivoire, and Mozambique. What are your thoughts on this group? I think it's the group of death. We're used to it now. We often end up in tough groups. But I think it's a good thing—it's a big test from the start. At least it gives a direction for the competition because if you manage to get out of this group, it means you're capable of winning the Africa Cup of Nations. I think these are the biggest nations we could face, so it will give us a good idea when we come out of it. How did you feel about Gabon's absence from the last Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Côte d'Ivoire? I think we missed out on a great AFCON because I personally watched it on TV, and it was really nice to see. I find it disappointing that we didn't participate. But we have to make up for it and go as far as we can in the next one. Pierre-Emerick, you are going to play your sixth Africa Cup of Nations. After all these years of experience, how do you view this new participation in Morocco in 2025, and what goals have you set for yourself? If I were to set myself a goal, it would be to win the Africa Cup of Nations. It would be a dream, perhaps seen as ambitious by some, but for me, it's a real objective. I'm going there with unwavering determination. It would also be something extraordinary for the country to reach the final and deliver a great performance. It would be truly incredible. You are clearly one of the faces of your team and national squad. As a leader, how do you manage this pressure? Yes, I think now I handle it well because of my experience. I react differently than before, when I could be more affected. Criticism is still hard to take, but that's the reality. Today, I am more mature. At my club, Al-Qadsiah FC, my role on the field involves me more in the game, which boosts my confidence. As for the pressure, it doesn't bother me anymore. I've been facing it for years. As a senior member of the team, what message do you pass on to the younger players to motivate them? What advice do you give them? The most important thing is to enjoy yourself, because it's a golden opportunity. If I look at my career, it's thanks to the AFCON that I was truly recognized on the world stage, especially with Gabon, and especially during the 2012 AFCON. Even though the ending was tough, it's a memorable experience. It's an incredible chance, especially when you're young, and sometimes I think young players forget this opportunity. So I advise them to enjoy every moment and play their football because that's how you grow. Mistakes are part of the game, but they help you improve. Of course, I'll give technical advice, but that stays between us. What would you have liked to hear at the beginning of your career? They told me the right things when I was young. But the thing I discovered later, which I wasn't prepared for, was the rise! Because it can happen very quickly. I remember I played the 2010 AFCON, where I was on the bench. And two years later, I was a starter, and they put me up there. So it's very complicated because there's also the backlash when you're, so to speak, the star. And when the results aren't there, of course, you're targeted. But that's just it—I think this is what surprised me. So if someone had warned me, it would have been nice. But I discovered it a bit the hard way. And as I said at the time, I sometimes reacted impulsively, probably making mistakes. But that's the past. I think now I try to set the best example for the young ones coming in and leave the field open for them for the future. 🇬🇦 — AUBA⚡️ (@Auba) March 25, 2025
CAF
19-03-2025
- Sport
- CAF
Africa's race for a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup is back on this week
As the CAF 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers return this week, African nations are entering a crucial phase with matchdays five and six set to shape the race for World Cup 2026 in North America. With only group winners securing direct qualification and the four best runners-up fighting for a playoff spot, every match matters. Egypt, Sudan, Côte d'Ivoire, Tunisia, and Morocco currently lead their groups, but traditional powerhouses like Nigeria and Ghana are under immense pressure. Here's a detailed analysis of each group, followed by the latest fixtures and standings. Group A: Egypt Set to Extend Lead, Burkina Faso Aim to Bounce Back Egypt remain firm favorites to top Group A, boasting an unbeaten record and a squad led by Mohamed Salah and Mahmoud Trezeguet, the joint-top scorers in qualifying. With Omar Marmoush now in the mix, Egypt will look to strengthen their position with an away match against Ethiopia before hosting Sierra Leone. Guinea-Bissau, who held Egypt to a 1-1 draw, continue to fight for second place. Meanwhile, Burkina Faso must take full points against Djibouti to stay in contention after a slow start. Upcoming Fixtures: Matchday 5: Burkina Faso vs Djibouti | Sierra Leone vs Guinea-Bissau | Ethiopia vs Egypt Matchday 6: Guinea-Bissau vs Burkina Faso | Egypt vs Sierra Leone | Ethiopia vs Djibouti Standings: Egypt – 10 pts Guinea-Bissau – 6 pts Burkina Faso – 5 pts Sierra Leone – 5 pts Ethiopia – 3 pts Djibouti – 1 pt Group B: Sudan and Senegal Locked in a Top-of-the-Table Battle This group is set for a crucial showdown between Sudan and Senegal, both of whom have been in fine form. Senegal, led by captain Sadio Mane, are unbeaten but trail Sudan by two points. Their head-to-head clash could decide the group's outcome. DR Congo, despite early struggles, still have a chance to stay in contention with must-win matches against South Sudan and Mauritania. Meanwhile, Togo are still chasing their first win in the group. Upcoming Fixtures: Matchday 5: DR Congo vs South Sudan | Togo vs Mauritania | Sudan vs Senegal Matchday 6: Mauritania vs DR Congo | Senegal vs Togo | Sudan vs Senegal Standings: Sudan – 10 pts Senegal – 8 pts DR Congo – 7 pts Togo – 3 pts South Sudan – 2 pts Mauritania – 1 pt Group C: Nigeria in Crisis as Rwanda, South Africa, and Benin Lead the Charge This is one of the tightest groups, with three teams – Rwanda, South Africa, and Benin – all tied on seven points. Nigeria, however, are in serious danger of missing out on qualification, sitting fifth with just three points. The Super Eagles must win at Rwanda to revive their hopes before a home clash against Zimbabwe. Meanwhile, South Africa, boosted by their TotalEnergies CAF AFCON qualification, will be aiming for two wins to take control of the group. Upcoming Fixtures: Matchday 5: South Africa vs Lesotho | Zimbabwe vs Benin | Rwanda vs Nigeria Matchday 6: Benin vs South Africa | Nigeria vs Zimbabwe | Rwanda vs Lesotho Standings: Rwanda – 7 pts South Africa – 7 pts Benin – 7 pts Lesotho – 5 pts Nigeria – 3 pts Zimbabwe – 2 pts Group D: Cameroon Look to Pull Away from Chasing Pack Cameroon, with their eight World Cup appearances, lead the group but have Libya and Cape Verde just one point behind. A win against Eswatini, who have lost all their games, could create some breathing room. Angola, who went unbeaten in the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON qualifiers, could also shake up the standings if they take points from Libya and Cape Verde. Upcoming Fixtures: Matchday 5: Cape Verde vs Mauritius | Libya vs Angola | Eswatini vs Cameroon Matchday 6: Angola vs Cape Verde | Cameroon vs Libya | Eswatini vs Mauritius Standings: Cameroon – 8 pts Libya – 7 pts Cape Verde – 7 pts Angola – 6 pts Mauritius – 4 pts Eswatini – 0 pts Group E: Morocco Dominate as Eritrea's Exit Leaves Just Five Teams With three wins from three, Morocco are heavy favorites to qualify directly. They face a tough test against Niger, who are still in contention, before hosting Tanzania in a must-win match for both teams. Upcoming Fixtures: Matchday 5: Niger vs Morocco | Tanzania vs Congo | Zambia vs Eritrea* Matchday 6: Congo vs Zambia | Niger vs Eritrea* | Morocco vs Tanzania Standings: Morocco – 9 pts Niger – 6 pts Tanzania – 6 pts Zambia – 3 pts Congo – 0 pts Group F: Côte d'Ivoire Face Strong Competition from Gabon and Burundi Côte d'Ivoire, fresh from winning the 2023 TotalEnergies CAF AFCON, have maintained their dominance in World Cup qualification, sitting top of the group with 10 points. Their squad, featuring Jean-Philippe Krasso and Oumar Diakite, has looked solid, but the race for qualification is far from over. Gabon, just one point behind, will look to maintain pressure, especially with Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang leading their attack. Burundi, sitting in third with seven points, are also in contention. Kenya and Gambia must win their upcoming matches to avoid falling further behind. Upcoming Fixtures: Matchday 5: Gabon vs Seychelles | Gambia vs Kenya | Burundi vs Côte d'Ivoire Matchday 6: Kenya vs Gabon | Côte d'Ivoire vs Gambia | Burundi vs Seychelles Standings: Côte d'Ivoire – 10 pts Gabon – 9 pts Burundi – 7 pts Kenya – 5 pts Gambia – 3 pts Seychelles – 0 pts Group G: Algeria and Mozambique in Tight Battle for Top Spot Algeria, the only team in this group with World Cup experience, are locked in a tense battle with Mozambique, as both sides sit on nine points. The Fennecs will rely on in-form Amine Gouiri, who has been instrumental in their qualification campaign. With Botswana, Guinea, and Uganda all sitting on six points, the group remains wide open. The upcoming matches could be decisive in determining who takes control before the final phase of qualifiers. Somalia, yet to register a point, are effectively out of contention. Upcoming Fixtures: Matchday 5: Guinea vs Somalia | Mozambique vs Uganda | Botswana vs Algeria Matchday 6: Uganda vs Guinea | Algeria vs Mozambique | Botswana vs Somalia Standings: Algeria – 9 pts Mozambique – 9 pts Botswana – 6 pts Guinea – 6 pts Uganda – 6 pts Somalia – 0 pts Group H: Tunisia Look to Extend Lead, Namibia and Liberia in Pursuit Tunisia have been the standout team in this group, leading with 10 points and securing an early AFCON 2025 qualification spot. They are looking to edge closer to a seventh World Cup appearance, with upcoming matches against Liberia and Malawi. Namibia and Liberia, sitting in second and third, remain in contention, while Equatorial Guinea, despite their AFCON qualification, have been inconsistent in this campaign. São Tomé and Príncipe have struggled to make an impact, losing all their matches so far. Upcoming Fixtures: Matchday 5: Equatorial Guinea vs São Tomé and Príncipe | Malawi vs Namibia | Liberia vs Tunisia Matchday 6: Namibia vs Equatorial Guinea | Tunisia vs Malawi | Liberia vs São Tomé and Príncipe Standings: Tunisia – 10 pts Namibia – 8 pts Liberia – 7 pts Malawi – 6 pts Equatorial Guinea – 3 pts São Tomé and Príncipe – 0 pts Group I: Ghana Face a Must-Win Situation as Comoros Hold Surprise Lead One of the biggest surprises in the CAF qualifiers has been Comoros, who sit top of Group I alongside Ghana, both on 9 points. The island nation has been one of Africa's fastest-rising teams, with impressive performances in both AFCON and World Cup qualifiers. Ghana, however, are under immense pressure, as they were expected to dominate this group. With Mali and Madagascar still in the race, the Black Stars must win their matches against Chad and Madagascar to keep their qualification hopes alive. Mali, with just 5 points, are struggling to keep up, while Chad remain without a point and are effectively out of the running. Upcoming Fixtures: Matchday 5: Ghana vs Chad | Central African Republic vs Madagascar | Comoros vs Mali Matchday 6: Madagascar vs Ghana | Central African Republic vs Mali | Comoros vs Chad Standings: Comoros – 9 pts Ghana – 9 pts Madagascar – 7 pts Mali – 5 pts Central African Republic – 4 pts Chad – 0 pts With only the group winners securing a direct ticket to World Cup 2026, the stakes have never been higher. Egypt, Sudan, Côte d'Ivoire, Tunisia, and Morocco look on course for qualification, but giants like Nigeria and Ghana must fight to stay in contention. The next two matchdays will be critical in shaping Africa's representation at the World Cup, with several must-win matches on the horizon. Expect high-intensity battles across all groups as teams push for a place on the world stage.
