Latest news with #TotalEnergiesCAFWomen'sAfricaCupofNations
CAF
a day ago
- General
- CAF
Women's AFCON 2024: Team Profile
Published: Tuesday, 03 June 2025 How the Team Qualified Botswana secured their place at the TotalEnergies CAF Women's Africa Cup of Nations 2024 following a solid qualifying campaign. After progressing past the first round, the Mares faced Kenya in a high-stakes regional encounter in the second and final qualifying round. The first leg, played in Francistown, ended in a 1–1 draw. In the return leg, Basimanebotlhe Malete's side clinched a crucial 1–0 victory to book their spot at the finals. Tournament History Botswana made their TotalEnergies CAF Women's Africa Cup of Nations debut in 2022, reaching the quarterfinals where they narrowly lost 2–1 to hosts Morocco. That year also marked their first-ever win at the tournament through a 4–2 victory over Burundi. Players to Watch Refilwe Tholakele A powerful and intelligent forward, Tholakele has proven to be deadly in front of goal for the Mares. A product of Botswana's Double Action club, she took a major step in her career by joining South Africa's Mamelodi Sundowns in 2023. Her impact was immediate: she finished as top scorer at the 2023 CAF Women's Champions League with five goals and was one of the standout revelations of the tournament. Quick, well positioned, and strong in one-on-one situations, Tholakele is also known for her relentless pressing and ability to hold up play. Sedilame Maitumelo Bosija A goalkeeper known for her reassuring presence, excellent reading of the game and impressive reflexes on her line. Sedilame Maitumelo Bosija has good footwork and knows how to distribute the ball efficiently and quickly, making her an asset in offensive transitions. Her ability to communicate effectively with her defence strengthens the solidity of her defensive unit. Despite a serious knee injury, she has shown great resilience and exemplary determination. A natural leader, she embodies professionalism and remains a role model for the new generation of Botswana's goalkeepers. Head Coach Basimanebotlhe Alex Malete has been at the helm of the Botswana women's team since 2023. He brings a modern tactical approach, with a strong emphasis on defensive organisation and detailed performance analysis. Holding a CAF B coaching licence and an advanced certification in tactical analysis, Malete integrates post-match review sessions into the team's routine, breaking down entire matches to identify key moments and improve collective decision-making. Aims and Group Analysis Botswana will be looking to better their 2022 quarter-final run. Their 2024 group is a challenging one, featuring Nigeria, Tunisia, and Algeria. However, they're banking on their defensive discipline and the sharpness of their front three to potentially cause an upset. As underdogs, the Mares may benefit from being under the radar provided they maintain a consistently high level of focus and intensity throughout the group stage.
CAF
2 days ago
- Sport
- CAF
Tunisian star Mariem Houij Dreams even bigger
Mariem Houij holds the record for the fastest goal in the history of the CAF Women's Africa Cup of Nations (TotalEnergies) A quarterfinalist in 2022, she now aims to go even further in the competition She also discusses her role within the Carthage Eagles (Women's Team) If there were a single moment to sum up Mariem Houij's career, it would probably be this one: a sprint, a crisp strike, and a goal scored just 17 seconds into the game against Togo during the TotalEnergies CAF Women's Africa Cup of Nations – the fastest goal in the tournament's history. That goal went viral and became a symbol of a player who constantly pushes her limits. At 30, the Tunisian striker is much more than a goal-scorer. She is a cornerstone, a role model, and an inspiration for a whole generation of young girls who dream of following in her footsteps. Since her debut with the national team, Mariem Houij has tirelessly represented the Carthage Eagles (Women's Team) with determination and passion. Eighteen years later, she's preparing for another TotalEnergies CAF WAFCON with a clear goal: to take Tunisia to the next level. Far from resting on her laurels, the player, who trained in Médenine and later played in Europe (notably in Turkey and France), continues to evolve her game while mentoring younger players, especially those from the diaspora. In this exclusive interview, Mariem Houij shares her most memorable moments, her ambitions for the next tournament, her deep connection to the national jersey, and her role in passing on knowledge. As soon as someone says "Mariem Houij", the first image that comes to mind is your lightning-fast goal – the fastest ever in the TotalEnergies CAF WAFCON finals. Is this something people still talk to you about? Mariem Houij: That goal is undeniably a historic moment in my career and in the history of the WAFCON. People still talk to me about it today in Tunisia. It's always gratifying to see how much it impacted people. How do you feel approaching this upcoming TotalEnergies WAFCON?I'm training seriously, even though the national league season is over, because we'll be facing top-tier teams like Nigeria, Algeria, and Botswana. As a striker, I aim to contribute positively to the team's performance by scoring goals to raise the profile of our team and promote Tunisian women's football. What does it mean to you to wear the Tunisian jersey in such a prestigious competition? Wearing the Tunisian jersey has always been a childhood dream. I've been with the national team for a long time, and I still feel immense pride every time I'm called up. Competing in continental tournaments and scoring goals there is a real privilege. The feeling never gets old—it grows stronger each time. How did you prepare mentally and physically for the tournament?I've dedicated these past two months to optimal physical preparation. Mentally, just hearing the Tunisian national anthem is enough to fire me up. It gives me the energy and drive to represent our country with determination. Tunisia is in Group B with Nigeria, Algeria, and Botswana. What are your thoughts on this group? Nigeria is the most decorated team in the WAFCON. In the last edition, they were eliminated in the semifinals by host nation Morocco. We beat Botswana in a friendly last year in Tunis. As for Algeria, their playing style is similar to ours, and we've won both of our recent matches against them. That said, official matches are completely different from friendlies. Our coaching staff is analysing every opponent in detail to prepare us well. What are Tunisia's goals for this TotalEnergies WAFCON?We want to deliver a strong performance and reach the knockout stages. In the last edition, we made it past the group stage for the first time in 12 years before being knocked out by the defending champions, South Africa. That was a major step forward. Now, we aim to go even further and make our country proud. What do you see as the strengths of your team? It's hard to reveal specific strengths, but what really sets us apart is our unity, our teamwork, and the absence of ego. We're a cohesive group without a "star system" – and that's our biggest strength. What lessons did you take from the 2022 edition in Morocco?Many players from the current squad weren't there in 2022, but the team spirit remains the same. We're focused on improving our fitness because playing six matches in two weeks requires serious preparation. Our coaching staff plays a key role in refining our tactical approach. How do you see the evolution of women's football in Tunisia in recent years? The federation is giving more attention to women's football now. Today, 22 players in the national team play for professional clubs. Some of us, including me, started in Tunisia and then moved abroad, which shows how much progress has been made. Ten years ago, only two or three players were playing outside the country. That says a lot. As a senior player, do you feel a special responsibility toward younger players?Absolutely. I need to support them, especially those who have never lived in Tunisia or don't speak Arabic. It's essential to remind them of the meaning of our mission and the hopes we carry. This shared awareness pushes us to always give our best. What are your personal goals for this TotalEnergies WAFCON? I never approach a competition with a personal mindset. My goal is above all collective – to help our team shine. As a striker, of course I want to score, and I work hard at it. I'd love to replicate the historic goal I scored in the last edition and keep my status as top scorer, just like in the qualifiers where I scored six goals in four matches. Do you have a role model or a player who inspires you in your career? If so, why? Nowadays, the level in women's football is pretty balanced, but if I had to name one icon, it would be Marta Vieira da Silva. She's a huge inspiration for the whole women's football community because of her talent and longevity. What is your best memory with the national team? Without hesitation, my goal in the 2022 edition. It's etched in my memory. Achieving something like that in such a short time is a challenge in itself, and I'd love to experience that kind of moment again. If you could dream up the perfect scenario for this TotalEnergies WAFCON, what would it look like? The ideal scenario would be reaching the final. We have a strong, long-standing group that has been reinforced with new players due to the postponement of the 2024 edition to 2025. We're ready to take on the challenge and give Tunisia—and the entire continent—a memorable performance. What would you say to the young Mariem Houij who dreamed of becoming a professional footballer? I'd tell her to persevere, be patient, and never pay attention to discouraging words. Only hard work pays off. With courage and discipline, dreams are within reach.
CAF
3 days ago
- Sport
- CAF
Merveille Kanjinga, the Congolese prodigy on a mission in Morocco
Revealed during the last CAF Women's Champions League—won with TP Mazembe—the young striker took off for Paris Saint-Germain, where she continues her rise At 22, she has become a symbol of hope for an entire nation, embodying the rebirth of women's football in the Democratic Republic of Congo Back in Morocco, the land of her continental triumph, she is preparing to compete in her first TotalEnergies CAF Women's Africa Cup of Nations, aiming to lead DR Congo to the top This is not just a transfer—it's a leap into orbit. Signed by Paris Saint-Germain on the eve of her 22nd birthday, Merveille Kanjinga saw her childhood dream come true. 'It was my dream since I was a little girl. When I heard that Paris Saint-Germain wanted me, I was very, very happy. I could hardly believe my ears,' she says, still emotional at the memory of the announcement. Her arrival in the French capital is like something out of a fairy tale. But it is no accident. Paris noticed her because she shone brightly during the last CAF Women's Champions League—a tournament she dominated with TP Mazembe, culminating in victory in Morocco. This continental title, the first in the Congolese club's history, fast-tracked her career. 'There are so many good memories. We had a great team, very good teammates. It was an unforgettable moment.' A national pride, a continental symbol Her transfer didn't just bring joy to the French club. In the Democratic Republic of Congo, the news was celebrated as a collective victory. In just a few months, Kanjinga has become the face of a rapidly evolving women's football scene. 'Yes, I realize what it means. People were very happy when they heard the news. I know they love it, and I do too.' On a continent where opportunities for women players are often scarce, her journey inspires admiration and hope. A child of Lubumbashi, she is now a source of inspiration for thousands of young girls. 'Believe in yourself, no matter where you come from. What matters is what you show on the pitch,' she says, aware of her powerful image. Return to Morocco, where it all began Fate has its winks, and for Kanjinga, it brings her back to Morocco—where everything changed for her, where she won the greatest title of her career. But this time, she returns wearing her national colors to compete in the TotalEnergies CAF Women's Africa Cup of Nations. DR Congo finds itself in a tough Group A, alongside Zambia, Senegal, and host nation Morocco. 'I know it'll be tough, but we're going to give it everything, fight to the end. It's a game, and the best will win,' she says calmly but firmly. No boastfulness—just an unshakable belief in effort and the team. Though it will be her first WAFCON, Merveille is no longer a rookie. PSG and the Women's Champions League have hardened her. She doesn't shy away from the responsibilities awaiting her in the national squad. 'Yes, I see myself as an experienced player,' she says—a statement that speaks volumes about the maturity of this young striker, aware of her role as a driving force in a team seeking renewal. Legacy and role models When asked about the figures who inspire her within the Congolese squad, she answers quickly: 'Isabelle Diakiese is one of the most professional players I know.' A natural nod to those who came before her and held things together, passing down the culture. Kanjinga hasn't forgotten where she came from. She knows that a solid group, united around proven leaders, can disrupt the established order. This coming July could be a landmark. For her, of course, as she prepares for her first TotalEnergies CAF WAFCON—but also for Congolese women's football, which has been chasing results in the competition since winning bronze in 1998. Through Merveille Kanjinga, an entire nation dares to believe in a revival. And if Morocco was the place of her club breakthrough, it could now become the site of her national team crowning.
CAF
27-05-2025
- Sport
- CAF
CAF and Morocco LOC announce Match Venues for much-anticipated TotalEnergies CAF Women's Africa Cup of Nations, Morocco 2024
The Confédération Africaine de Football's ('CAF') together with hosts, Morocco Local Organizing Committee have announced the match venues that will host TotalEnergies CAF Women's Africa Cup of Nations ('WAFCON'), Morocco 2024 from 05-26 July, 2025. Six venues will be used for the Competition – the first time more than three venues are used for the event. The venues are: Olympic Stadium (Rabat) Larbi Zaouli Stadium (Casablanca) Père Jégo Stadium (Casablanca) El Bachir Stadium (Mohammédia) Honor Stadium (Oujda) Berkane Stadium (Berkane) The Match Venues: The brand new Olympic Stadium in Rabat was constructed to host 21,000 fans and is a state-of-the-art venue near the historic Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium. It will be one of the host stadiums for the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations, Morocco 2025 that kicks-off in December. The Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca is currently the temporary home of Raja and Wydad Casablanca while their Mohammed V Stadium is being renovated ahead of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations, Morocco 2025. It had its own renovations in 2019 and recently played host to matches at the TotalEnergies CAF Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations. The 10,000-seater Père Jégo Stadium, also in Casablanca, is named after former Morocco manager Père Jégo, who is considered one of the finest football tacticians in the country's history. He managed both Raja and Wydad Casablanca, as well as the Morocco national team. The El Bachir Stadium in Mohammédia was built in 1954 but renovated in 2019 and is home to local side SCC Mohammédia. The stadium hosted matches at the recent TotalEnergies CAF Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations, including the final. The Honor Stadium is Oujda has a capacity of 35,000 and has played host to several international matches of late, involving the Morocco national team or as a home venue for other nations to complete their international fixtures. Finally, the Berkane Stadium is the home venue of RS Berkane and has a capacity of 12,000. It received renovations in 2017 and has hosted both international fixtures and matches in CAF's Interclub competitions. As seen across all CAF competitions over the last four years, the TotalEnergies CAF WAFCON, Morocco 2024 is expected to build on the record-breaking success of its previous editions, with expectations to surpass past figures in stadium attendance, global broadcast viewership and engagement across digital platforms. In addition to the live coverage, fans are encouraged to engage with the exclusive behind the scenes content across CAF's digital platforms, using #TotalEnergiesWAFCON2024. TOTALENERGIES WAFCON, MOROCCO 2024 GROUPS GROUP A: Morocco, Zambia, Senegal, DR Congo GROUP B: Nigeria, Tunisia, Algeria, Botswana GROUP C: South Africa, Ghana, Mali, Tanzania For more on the TotalEnergies CAF WAFCON, Morocco 2024, visit -ENDS- Further Inquiries: communications@ CAF | Communication Department
CAF
27-05-2025
- Sport
- CAF
CAF and Morocco LOC announces Match Venues for much-anticipated TotalEnergies CAF Women's Africa Cup of Nations, Morocco 2024
The Confédération Africaine de Football's ('CAF') together with hosts, Morocco Local Organizing Committee have announced the match venues that will host TotalEnergies CAF Women's Africa Cup of Nations ('WAFCON'), Morocco 2024 from 05-26 July, 2025. Six venues will be used for the Competition – the first time more than three venues are used for the event. The venues are: Olympic Stadium (Rabat) Olympic Stadium (Rabat) Larbi Zaouli Stadium (Casablanca) Père Jégo Stadium (Casablanca) El Bachir Stadium (Mohammédia) Honor Stadium (Oujda) Berkane Stadium (Berkane) The Match Venues: The brand new Olympic Stadium in Rabat was constructed to host 21,000 fans and is a state-of-the-art venue near the historic Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium. It will be one of the host stadiums for the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations, Morocco 2025 that kicks-off in December. The Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca is currently the temporary home of Raja and Wydad Casablanca while their Mohammed V Stadium is being renovated ahead of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations, Morocco 2025. It had its own renovations in 2019 and recently played host to matches at the TotalEnergies CAF Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations. The 10,000-seater Père Jégo Stadium, also in Casablanca, is named after former Morocco manager Père Jégo, who is considered one of the finest football tacticians in the country's history. He managed both Raja and Wydad Casablanca, as well as the Morocco national team. The El Bachir Stadium in Mohammédia was built in 1954 but renovated in 2019 and is home to local side SCC Mohammédia. The stadium hosted matches at the recent TotalEnergies CAF Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations, including the final. The Honor Stadium is Oujda has a capacity of 35,000 and has played host to several international matches of late, involving the Morocco national team or as a home venue for other nations to complete their international fixtures. Finally, the Berkane Stadium is the home venue of RS Berkane and has a capacity of 12,000. It received renovations in 2017 and has hosted both international fixtures and matches in CAF's Interclub competitions. As seen across all CAF competitions over the last four years, the TotalEnergies CAF WAFCON, Morocco 2024 is expected to build on the record-breaking success of its previous editions, with expectations to surpass past figures in stadium attendance, global broadcast viewership and engagement across digital platforms. In addition to the live coverage, fans are encouraged to engage with the exclusive behind the scenes content across CAF's digital platforms, using #TotalEnergiesWAFCON2024. TOTALENERGIES WAFCON, MOROCCO 2024 GROUPS GROUP A: Morocco, Zambia, Senegal, DR Congo GROUP B: Nigeria, Tunisia, Algeria, Botswana GROUP C: South Africa, Ghana, Mali, Tanzania For more on the TotalEnergies CAF WAFCON, Morocco 2024, visit -ENDS- Further Inquiries: communications@ CAF | Communication Department
