Latest news with #TotalEnergiesCAFWomen'sAfricaCupofNations
CAF
2 days ago
- Sport
- CAF
CAF to host TotalEnergies CAF WAFCON Technical Insights Discussion in Rabat on Wednesday
Published: Monday, 21 July 2025 The Confédération Africaine de Football (CAF) will host a TotalEnergies CAF Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) Technical Insights Discussion with selected members of the tournament's Technical Study Group (TSG) in Rabat, Morocco on Wednesday. The members of the TSG will provide insights into the tournament so far and take questions from the experts who will be in attendance are: Shilene Booysen (South Africa) Booysen is a highly regarded tactician with experience coaching South Sudan's women's national team and as a former analyst for Banyana Banyana, her deep analytical approach makes her a key member of the group. Lamia Boumehdi (Morocco) A former coach of the Morocco U20 Women's National Team, Boumehdi has been instrumental in the rise of Moroccan women's football, contributing both at club and national levels with a focus on technical excellence and youth progression. She guided TP Mazembe to a first ever CAF Women's Champions League title 2024. Jacqueline Shipanga (Namibia) One of the most recognisable figures in Namibian football, Shipanga is a CAF and FIFA coaching instructor and former Brave Gladiators coach, known for her leadership in both technical and administrative roles. Shipanga is the technical director of the NFA, the only women to occupy the role in our continent currently. Clementine Touré (Côte d'Ivoire) A former head coach of Côte d'Ivoire's women's national team, Touré is a trailblazer in African women's football. She led Equatorial Guinea to the 2011 FIFA Women's World Cup and has vast experience at WAFCON level. She also served as TSG at both the 2019 and 2023 FIFA Women's World Cups.
CAF
4 days ago
- Sport
- CAF
A synergy of wit & bold calls: The Twin Referees at WAFCON 2024
Rwandan pride Aline Umutoni and Alice Umutesi flying high at WAFCON 2024 Former footballers now turning heads as referees Pair building legacy to inspire generations Football does more than meets the eye. The stories behind every whistle and call are steeped in beautiful tales that stick like glue, and age like fine wine. At the ongoing TotalEnergies CAF Women's Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, two women from Rwanda have not just stuck as a pair, they've added layers of allure and feel that is striking. Twins Aline Umutoni and Alice Umutesi are living the dream and mirror intentional synergy, strength and sisterhood. In the quiet valleys and green hills of Rwanda, where resilience echoes in every breath and every heartbeat tells a story of rebirth, these two sisters have risen. Theirs is a tale of storied grace, grit and glory. Their dominance, is not merely reflections of each other, but as beacons of hope. Aline and Alice are not just twins by birth, but twin flames in the world of African Football officiating, dominating a sport that few decades ago was a no-go-area for women. Their journey began on familiar fields, laced with childhood dreams and teenage tenacity. 'I remember when we were just in Germany with the national team,' Aline recalls, her voice a nostalgic brushstroke on the canvas of memory. What was once a playground became a proving ground; what started as a love for the game transformed into a deep vocation to interpret, protect, and elevate it. Their roles are distinct yet complementary, Aline, the central referee, presiding with poised authority; Alice, the assistant referee, scanning every inch of the pitch with an eagle eye and unwavering discipline. 'Yes, our styles are different,' Alice affirms. 'She's in the center. I'm on the flank. But we move with the same heart.' The two have always shared more than just DNA. Their journey into football officiating wasn't just a career choice, it was a reflection of their bond. 'Because we are real twins, if she likes something, I have to like it too. It's mandatory,' said Aline, with a laugh that punctuates their sibling dynamic. But sharing the same ambition also required compromise. Initially, both trained as central referees until their Coach Mbake offered them advice that would later prove useful. 'He told us, 'Alice, if you stay as a referee, and Aline also stays as a referee, it's as if you are competing,'' Alice recalled. 'So we decided Aline would stay as central referee, and I'd work as an assistant.' That decision wasn't just practical, it aligned with their personalities. 'I chose to be the central referee because I'm bossy. Secondly, I'm responsible. I like to make decisions,' said Aline. Alice quickly adds, 'But you're a little shy', to which Aline replied: 'I'm not shy on the pitch.' The pair add that given the nature of football, they've had to make room for critcism as that was the only way they could grow. 'Of course we criticize each other,' Alice admits 'That's how we grow. That's how we get better.' Aline agrees, unapologetically candid: 'We tell each other the truth. And when the truth brings change, we embrace it. Then life goes on.' '…If you work according to the law,' Alice says firmly, 'you stay strong and keep working. That's it.' 'Her mistakes are my mistakes,' said Alice. 'So if she makes mistakes, I have to criticize her to correct her next time. It's for our own good.' Aline nodded in agreement. The two carry Rwanda proudly on their shoulders, not as a cross to bear, but as a beautiful badge of honour. As the only set of twin referees in a major continental tournament in recent memory, they represent a profound national and symbolic significance. 'It's good when you represent your country,' said Aline. 'So we're very proud to represent Rwanda.' 'To represent your country as twins,' Alice says, 'is a pleasure. We are very, very proud.' And they've earned that pride. Aline's greatest moment? Standing tall at the TotalEnergies CAF WAFCON, Morocco 2024, officiating a match between Botswana and Nigeria. 'So much was going on,' she reflects. 'But we managed. And I was very happy.' But behind the polished boots and sharp whistles is a story of transition and transformation. Before refereeing, they were players. And when their days with the ball at their feet began to fade, they chose not to walk away but to launch deeper into football – a love affair that is unwavering. 'In life, you must have a goal,' Aline explains. 'Ours was to stay in football. So we trained, we committed. And now, we are here.' 'At first, we just had the goal to work, to get far, to stay in the field of sport. That's why we worked a lot, we did a lot of training. And here we are today,' Alice re-echoed Aline's thoughts. Off the pitch, their personalities blossom in simpler expressions. On a good day, when the whistles are silent and the pressure momentarily subsides, their sense of fashion is evident; the pair love dresses, the flowing and elegant type that allows them to be as expressive as they can. 'From the top down,' Alice says, 'it's about what one wants to have. 'But there are times when I choose a dress, she says, no, I'm going to wear a jacket. No, I say no, Aline. Today, it's a dress.' In an age where representation matters more than ever, Aline and Alice stand as radiant symbols not just of women in sport, but of what happens when discipline dances with passion, when family fuels ambition, and when dreams, though born in quiet corners, echo across continents. Their unique pairing often means they are assigned to matches together, something both find comforting and empowering. 'That's the advantage for us,' Alice said. 'We play the same matches, we travel together.' To young girls who believe the field belongs only to men, Alice has this to say: 'Refereeing is not only for men. We are women, and we are here. You can earn a living. You can buy a house. You can help orphans. You can do everything. The field is yours. For us, refereeing is life.' As they take to the field over the course of the WAFCON and beyond, they represent the unique African woman's trait of tenacity and sheer determination. Rwandan Pride. Aline and Alice. Not for Self, But for Others – A Life of Service, Sacrifice and Higher Calling. Aline and Alice will officiate in the Algeria Vs. Ghana Quarter-Finals match on Saturday, 19 July at 16:00 GMT Further Inquiries: communications@ CAF | Communication Department
CAF
4 days ago
- Sport
- CAF
A synergy of wits & bold calls: The Twin Referees at WAFCON 2024
Rwandan pride Aline and Alice Umutoni flying high at WAFCON 2024 Former footballers now turning heads as Referees Pair building legacy to inspire generations Football does more than meets the eye. The stories behind every whistle and call are steeped in beautiful tales that stick like glue, and age like fine wine. At the ongoing TotalEnergies CAF Women's Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, two women from Rwanda have not just stuck as a pair, they've added layers of allure and feel that is striking. Twins Aline and Alice Umutesi are living the dream and mirror intentional synergy, strength and sisterhood. In the quiet valleys and green hills of Rwanda, where resilience echoes in every breath and every heartbeat tells a story of rebirth, these two sisters have risen. Theirs is a tale of storied grace, grit and glory. Their dominance, is not merely reflections of each other, but as beacons of hope. Aline and Alice are not just twins by birth, but twin flames in the world of African football officiating, dominating a sport that few decades ago was a no-go-area for women. Their journey began on familiar fields, laced with childhood dreams and teenage tenacity. 'I remember when we were just in Germany with the national team,' Aline recalls, her voice a nostalgic brushstroke on the canvas of memory. What was once a playground became a proving ground; what started as a love for the game transformed into a deep vocation to interpret, protect, and elevate it. Their roles are distinct yet complementary, Aline, the central referee, presiding with poised authority; Alice, the assistant referee, scanning every inch of the pitch with an eagle eye and unwavering discipline. 'Yes, our styles are different,' Alice affirms. 'She's in the center. I'm on the flank. But we move with the same heart.' The two have always shared more than just DNA. Their journey into football officiating wasn't just a career choice, it was a reflection of their bond. 'Because we are real twins, if she likes something, I have to like it too. It's mandatory,' said Aline, with a laugh that punctuates their sibling dynamic. But sharing the same ambition also required compromise. Initially, both trained as central referees until their Coach Mbake offered them advice that would later prove useful. 'He told us, 'Alice, if you stay as a referee, and Aline also stays as a referee, it's as if you are competing,'' Alice recalled. 'So we decided Aline would stay as central referee, and I'd work as an assistant.' That decision wasn't just practical, it aligned with their personalities. 'I chose to be the central referee because I'm bossy. Secondly, I'm responsible. I like to make decisions,' said Aline. Alice quickly adds, 'But you're a little shy', to which Aline replied: 'I'm not shy on the pitch.' The pair add that given the nature of football, they've had to make room for critcism as that was the only way they could grow. 'Of course we criticize each other,' Alice admits 'That's how we grow. That's how we get better.' Aline agrees, unapologetically candid: 'We tell each other the truth. And when the truth brings change, we embrace it. Then life goes on.' '…If you work according to the law,' Alice says firmly, 'you stay strong and keep working. That's it.' 'Her mistakes are my mistakes,' said Alice. 'So if she makes mistakes, I have to criticize her to correct her next time. It's for our own good.' Aline nodded in agreement. The two carry Rwanda proudly on their shoulders, not as a cross to bear, but as a beautiful badge of honour. As the only set of twin referees in a major continental tournament in recent memory, they represent a profound national and symbolic significance. 'It's good when you represent your country,' said Aline. 'So we're very proud to represent Rwanda.' 'To represent your country as twins,' Alice says, 'is a pleasure. We are very, very proud.' And they've earned that pride. Aline's greatest moment? Standing tall at the TotalEnergies CAF WAFCON, Morocco 2024, officiating a match between Botswana and Nigeria. 'There were so many actions,' she reflects. 'But we managed. And I was very happy.' But behind the polished boots and sharp whistles is a story of transition and transformation. Before refereeing, they were players. And when their days with the ball at their feet began to fade, they chose not to walk away but to launch deeper into football – a love affair that is unwavering. 'In life, you must have a goal,' Aline explains. 'Ours was to stay in football. So we trained, we committed. And now, we are here.' 'At first, we just had the goal to work, to get far, to stay in the field of sport. That's why we worked a lot, we did a lot of training. And here we are today,' Alice re-echoed Aline's thoughts. Off the pitch, their personalities blossom in simpler expressions. On a good day, when the whistles are silent and the pressure momentarily subsides, their sense of fashion is evident; the pair love dresses, the flowing and elegant type that allows them to be as expressive as they can. 'From the top down,' Alice says, 'it's about what one wants to have. 'But there are times when I choose a dress, she says, no, I'm going to wear a jacket. No, I say no, Aline. Today, it's a dress.' In an age where representation matters more than ever, Aline and Alice stand as radiant symbols not just of women in sport, but of what happens when discipline dances with passion, when family fuels ambition, and when dreams, though born in quiet corners, echo across continents. Their unique pairing often means they are assigned to matches together, something both find comforting and empowering. 'That's the advantage for us,' Alice said. 'We play the same matches, we travel together.' To young girls who believe the field belongs only to men, Alice has this to say: 'Refereeing is not only for men. We are women, and we are here. You can earn a living. You can buy a house. You can help orphans. You can do everything. The field is yours. For us, Refereeing is life.' As they take to the field over the course of the WAFCON and beyond, they represent the unique African woman's trait of tenacity and sheer determination. Rwandan Pride. Aline and Alice. Not for Self, But for Others – A Life of Service, Sacrifice and Higher Calling. Aline and Alice will officiate in the Algeria Vs. Ghana Quarter-Finals match on Saturday, 19 July at 16:00 GMT Further Inquiries: communications@ CAF | Communication Department
CAF
5 days ago
- Sport
- CAF
Rampant Nigeria smash five past Zambia to reach WAFCON semis
Published: Friday, 18 July 2025 Nigeria delivered a dominant performance to demolish Zambia 5-0 and secure a place in the semi-finals of the 2025 TotalEnergies CAF Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Casablanca on Friday. The Super Falcons, unbeaten and unbreached in the tournament so far, maintained their defensive record while producing their most clinical attacking display yet, dismantling the Copper Queens with ruthless efficiency at Stade Larbi Zaouli. Nigeria's intent was clear from the first whistle, and they needed just two minutes to assert control. Centre-back Osinachi Ohale rose highest to head home Esther Okoronkwo's pinpoint free-kick delivery, setting the tone for a night to forget for Zambia. The nine-time champions doubled their lead in the 33rd minute when Okoronkwo, again heavily involved, finished off a flowing move with a composed strike into the bottom corner. Zambia, who had shown grit and flair in the group stages, looked shell-shocked. Before the half-time whistle, Nigeria added a third. Chinwendu Ihezuo pounced on a loose ball in the box to slot in a left-footed finish and all but end the contest. Zambia, for all their attacking prowess led by captain Barbra Banda and Grace Chanda, failed to replicate the fluid football that had seen them finish second in Group A. Their attacks were often disjointed and met with a disciplined Nigerian backline anchored by Ashleigh Plumptre. After the break, Nigeria remained in control. Oluwatosin Demehin made it 4-0 in the 68th minute, nodding in from close range after another set-piece wreaked havoc in Zambia's area. The fifth arrived in stoppage time, with substitute Folashade Ijamilusi applying the finishing touch following good work by Rasheedat Ajibade. Zambia's frustration was summed up by Banda's repeated offsides and speculative efforts, while Chanda's long-range attempt in the 51st minute was comfortably blocked. With this emphatic victory, Nigeria maintain their push for a record-extending 10th WAFCON title. Zambia, who had hoped to build on their 2022 bronze finish, now exit the tournament having been outclassed by a side still to concede a single goal. Nigeria will now await their semi-final opponents with growing confidence and belief that their dominance on the continent remains intact.
CAF
5 days ago
- Sport
- CAF
Morocco - Mali: A clash of gloves in the heart of Rabat
Mali arrived in Rabat dazed and disoriented, like a boxer on the ropes, after suffering a resounding 0-4 defeat to South Africa in Oujda. A crushing defeat that could have left the Eagles on the floor. But instead of staying on their knees, they got back up. The quarterfinal bell is fast approaching, and they know it is now or never to get back in the ring. In front of them is Morocco, the host country of the TotalEnergies CAF Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) 2024, fighting on home soil. The crowd, as hot as a furnace, fill the Olympic Stadium in Rabat for every fight, and the Atlas Lionesses have advanced with the confidence of being the top seed. However, the Malians have the will to win. "The group stage is over. Now it's the knockout stage: you play, you go through. You lose, you go home," declared Mohamed Houssein Saloum, the Malian coach, in a phrase as colourful as it was powerful. Meaning: there are no more calculations, you lose, and you are eliminated. An iron mind for a comeback Mali knows what they're playing for: more than a place in the semifinals, revenge against themselves. "We're aware. The defeat against South Africa wasn't what we wanted, but we've turned the page. You'll see a different image of the team tomorrow," promises striker Aissata Traoré. Real punchers, Les Aigles Dames want everyone to forget their average attack (only two goals in three matches) and a cracked defense (five goals conceded, the worst total of any team still in the competition). But against Morocco, they want to strike hard, right from the opening minutes. A battle of styles: technical boxing versus impact boxing Morocco, for their part, are progressing systematically. Like a boxer with a refined style, solid on her feet, working with their jab, wearing down her opponent with patience and precision. This approach is confirmed by Jorge Vilda, the national coach: "Every morning, my players make me feel ready to fight. This match is crucial; it stimulates us, it gives us extra energy." Aziza Rabbah, central defender for the Atlas Lionesses, emphasizes the mental strength of the group: "We have spent more than two months together, totally focused. We've become a real family. This cohesion, this harmony, is what helps us stay strong, both physically and mentally." Mali, on the other hand, promise a completely different kind of match. Aïssata Traoré sets the scene bluntly: "To win, you have to be more eager to hurt your opponent." And she adds, almost introspectively: "The opponent is ourselves. It's the limits we set for ourselves that will turn the match." Behind these words, a whole state of mind has been expressed. A more straightforward, more muscular, no-nonsense game. The Malians want to press high, impose impact, and make their hearts and lungs speak. Like in an eighth round, when the legs burn but the will takes over. Lessons learned through hard work: "Each match has its own reality, its own philosophy. We learned from our mistakes," the Malian tactician emphasizes. Despite the defeat, the team retain their weapons: backup goalkeeper Alima Cissé, who made four saves in the last match (a record for Mali in this tournament), and striker Saratou Traoré, who put four of five shots on target against the South Africans. Morocco: Favorite, but Not Untouchable "They're a playful team, they don't give up, they believe in themselves," acknowledges the Malian coach. Morocco impresses, keeps on playing, and draws crowds. But in a quarterfinal, the slightest opening can be exploited. "The match will come down to the details," he warns. For the Moroccan side, Jorge Vilda refuses to underestimate the ferocity of the Malian women: "Mali is a great team. They really want to qualify for the semifinals, which makes them even more dangerous. In no case are my players less confident." Aziza Rabbah confirms: "The psychological stress, the tension, we know it's an important factor. But we're ready, focused. We want to show the best version of our team. This match is a major challenge, and we'll give it our all." The strength of the people and desire to make history "This match is super important, not just for me. It's an entire country that's counting on us," insists Traoré. A second semifinal qualification, after the one in 2018, would give Malian Women's Football new visibility. And the Malians are ready for anything: "If we have to leave our bodies, even our souls, on the pitch, we'll do it," says the new Boston striker, vigorously. The phrase resonates like a right hook. The support of Malian fans in Morocco could serve as a 12th factor. "We ask them to have more support for us. And I hope we will grow and get better in the game."
