Latest news with #TotalEnergiesManoftheMatch
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.
CAF
a day ago
- Sport
- CAF
Ahmed El Moctar's Golden Night: The man who ended Mauritania's goal drought in style
When Mauritania needed a hero, Ahmed Mokhtar Ahmed stepped forward — and in one unforgettable evening at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, he became more than just a striker. He became the lifeline of the Mourabitounes' CHAN 2024 campaign, ending a frustrating scoring drought, securing their first win, and walking away with the TotalEnergies Man of the Match award. Breaking the Drought, Igniting the Dream For two games, Mauritania's forwards had chased goals in vain, firing blanks against Madagascar and Tanzania. But on Saturday, 9 August, Mokhtar changed the story within nine minutes of kick-off. Pouncing on a perfectly delivered cross from Abdallah Mahmoud, he guided the ball into the net with precision and composure. It was a goal that did more than just break the deadlock — it broke the chains of uncertainty, giving Mauritania the belief and momentum they needed to control the game against the Central African Republic. The 1-0 victory lifted Mauritania to four points in Group B and reopened the door to the knockout stages. A Striker's Night to Remember The headlines may focus on his goal, but Mokhtar's impact ran deeper. He wasn't just a finisher — he was a creator, a constant threat, and a tactical focal point in coach Artiz Garai Lopez's attacking plan. From pressing defenders to holding up play and drawing markers away from his teammates, his intelligent movement kept the Central African backline on edge. His work rate and sharp reading of the game turned him into the pivot around which Mauritania's attacks revolved. 'I congratulate my teammates and also the coach after the victory over the Central African Republic. We have now won our first match in the TotalEnergies CHAN, and we will look to deliver a better performance in our next match, God willing,' El Moctar said, smiling in the post-match press conference. Man of the Match and a Mental Boost Winning the TotalEnergies Man of the Match award wasn't just a personal achievement — it was symbolic of Mauritania's revival. For Mokhtar, the recognition was an emotional lift, a public acknowledgment of the energy, movement, and commitment he poured into the game. 'We prepared well for the match against the Central African Republic in training, and in the end, we managed to win,' he added. The Tactical Catalyst Mokhtar's role extended beyond statistics. By drifting wide, dropping deep, and constantly switching positions, he disrupted the rhythm of the Central African defence. His runs created pockets of space for midfielders to exploit, while his link-up play kept Mauritania in control of the tempo. That relentless mobility was not just tactical — it was psychological. His early strike lit a fire in his teammates, raising their tempo and intensifying their duels across the pitch. What Comes Next With this win, Mauritania's hopes remain alive. More importantly, they have rediscovered their scoring touch, and Ahmed Mokhtar has proven he is the man for the big moments. For the Mourabitounes, the mission is clear: build on this performance and carry the momentum into the decisive stages of CHAN 2024.
CAF
4 days ago
- Sport
- CAF
DR Congo end winless run with clinical victory over Zambia
DR Congo reignited their TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) PAMOJA 2024 campaign with a commanding 2-0 victory over Zambia in their second Group A match on Thursday at the Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi. Goals from Ibrahim Matobo and substitute Horso Mwaku helped the Leopards bounce back from their opening day defeat to co-hosts Kenya and keep alive their hopes of reaching the knockout stages. The win also marked the end of a five-match winless run for DR Congo at CHAN, while inflicting Zambia's first-ever group stage defeat in the competition's history — a remarkable statistic that stretched across 12 matches prior to kickoff. Second-half spark lifts DR Congo After a goalless and scrappy first half that saw both sides cancel each other out, DR Congo came out of the break with renewed intensity and soon found the breakthrough. Just six minutes into the second half, a neat passage of play saw Jephte Kitambala pick out Ibrahim Matobo, who powered a right-footed effort into the top left corner to give Otis Ngoma's side a deserved lead in the 51st minute. Zambia attempted to respond, but their best efforts — including close-range headers from Killian Kanguluma and Charles Zulu — were thwarted by goalkeeper Brudel Efonge, who delivered a composed and commanding display between the posts. The Leopards doubled their lead in the 71st minute through substitute Horso Mwaku, who latched onto a pinpoint pass from Oscar Kabwit on a fast break and lashed the ball high into the net from the centre of the box. That goal sealed the result and underlined DR Congo's clinical edge on the night — a stark contrast to their wasteful display against Kenya. A match of missed chances for Chipolopolo Despite boasting a proud CHAN group-stage record, Zambia looked out of rhythm and short on ideas in the attacking third. Their opening half was marked by poor decision-making and a lack of penetration. Coach Avram Grant, who had urged his team to focus on shape and confidence in the build-up, made multiple substitutions in the second half in search of inspiration, including the introductions of Charles Zulu, Evans Kayombo, and Frederick Mulambia. Zulu came closest to pulling one back in the 89th minute when his header from the centre of the box was saved low by Efonge — a moment that summed up Zambia's evening in front of goal. DR Congo's response after opening setback For DR Congo, the win not only ends their five-game winless run at CHAN but also keeps them in the mix for a place in the quarter-finals. After losing 1-0 to Kenya in their opening game — and going over 427 minutes without a goal in the competition — the Leopards showed resilience, tactical balance, and sharp finishing to pick up a crucial three points. Coach Otis Ngoma had demanded a reaction from his players, and they delivered with maturity and urgency. Standout performances from Ibrahim Matobo - who won the TotalEnergies Man of the Match award - Kabwit, Kitambala, and Efonge anchored the victory, while substitutes Mwaku and Boaz Ngalamulume added fresh energy to see out the result. Group A standings after two rounds With this result, Group A now features a three-way tie at the top. Morocco, Kenya, and DR Congo all sit on three points, separated by goal difference. Zambia and Angola have work to do if they are to salvage their campaigns. Kenya will face Angola later tonight in what could further reshape the group landscape, while DR Congo's final group match against Morocco is shaping up to be a potential group decider.
CAF
4 days ago
- Sport
- CAF
Yahya Abasi: The beating heart leading Tanzania in the right direction at the TotalEnergies CHAN 2024
Tanzania midfielder Yahya Abasi played a pivotal role in helping the Taifa Stars secure a crucial victory over Mauritania on Wednesday in Dar es Salaam, in their second group match at the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024. Abasi's standout performance in a tightly contested and thrilling encounter earned him the TotalEnergies Man of the Match award, a recognition of his significant influence throughout the match. Often described as the 'beating heart' of the Tanzanian midfield, Abasi is the fulcrum of coach Hemed Suleiman's tactical set-up — a player the technical bench relies on heavily to dictate play and anchor the team's transitions from defence to attack. Consistency the Key to Success Speaking at the post-match press conference after being named Man of the Match , Abasi reflected on the importance of remaining grounded and committed to the team's goals: 'I thank God for being named Man of the Match. "It's important when you win this award, but maybe next time another player will win it. What matters most is that we continue to work hard.' Abasi's words, delivered with pride and humility, reflect his level-headed approach and unwavering focus — a mindset often regarded as key to a successful footballing career. Focus Now on the Matches A head When asked about Tanzania's ambitions in the tournament, Abbas was clear about the team's immediate objectives: 'We'll try to give our best to secure qualification to the knockout stages, and we'll take it one game at a time.' His statement underlines the team's commitment to preparation and their step-by-step approach in navigating the tournament's challenges. Veteran Experience Vital for Youth Development At 29, Yahya Abasi is among the senior figures in the Taifa Stars squad. He emphasised the importance of having experienced players in the team, particularly when competing at a high level like CHAN. 'Perhaps the key word is experience. Big teams in tough matches need experienced players. These players support the younger ones, and together, we aim to win games.' This highlights Abasi's leadership role, not just through his performances on the pitch, but also as a mentor to younger teammates during this crucial competition. CHAN: A Platform for Growth and Talent Development Abasi, who was instrumental in the hard-fought win over Mauritania, described the CHAN tournament as a valuable platform for home-based players to grow and showcase their abilities. 'The CHAN is an opportunity for us players to develop ourselves. Participating in this competition helps local players refine their skills and raise their level.' His remarks reflect the wider view that CHAN is not only a competitive tournament but also a developmental opportunity for African domestic talents. Coach's Guidance Behind Improved Performances Abasi was quick to credit the coaching staff for the team's improved showing, revealing that pre-match advice from the technical team was instrumental in their execution on the pitch. 'The coach gave us some important tips before the match, and we'll try to improve on certain aspects during our upcoming preparations.' His comments underscore the strong working relationship between players and coaching staff, and the emphasis placed on continuous improvement. Momentum and Strong Performances Fuel Tanzanian Hopes Yahya Abasi's performances so far embody leadership, experience, and ambition — a combination that bodes well for Tanzania's prospects at CHAN 2024. If he continues at this level, his contribution will undoubtedly boost the Taifa Stars' chances of meeting their tournament objectives. Collective focus and a commitment to improving performance will be essential for Tanzania as they progress through the competition. With growing support from fans and a renewed sense of purpose, Abasi and his teammates will aim to build on this momentum and take the nation deeper into the tournament.
CAF
4 days ago
- Sport
- CAF
Elyazare Ouattara: The true engine behind Burkina Faso at the TotalEnergies CHAN 2024
Burkina Faso midfielder Josafat Elyazare Ouattara continued to shine with another outstanding performance for the Stallions at the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) PAMOJA 2024. His brilliance was on full display during the match against the Central African Republic, where he was deservedly named TotalEnergies Man of the Match . The 22-year-old's energetic presence across the midfield—contributing in both attack and defence—earned him a trophy he is unlikely to forget, especially as he played a crucial role in reigniting his country's hopes of progressing in the competition. Ouattara led Burkina Faso to a thrilling 4-2 win over the Central African Republic on Wednesday evening at the Benjamin Mkapa National Stadium in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, and stood out as the best player on the pitch. Pride in the Award, Humility in Attitude Elyazare Ouattara expressed his pride after being named Man of the Match , an accolade presented by TotalEnergies at the end of the game. He described his standout display as particularly meaningful, especially after the team's opening defeat to tournament hosts Tanzania. Speaking at the post-match press conference, Ouattara said:'It's a great honour to be named Man of the Match. "We really needed this win, and we had to fight hard to bounce back from the performance we showed in the first match, which was far from ideal.' Showing humility, Ouattara was quick to share credit with his teammates, insisting that the award was not solely due to his own efforts. 'I'm here thanks to all my teammates in the national team.' Proud of the Honour, but Insists It's a Team Effort Ouattara impressed with his high energy and technical quality at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, establishing himself as the true 'engine' in Burkina Faso's midfield. Off the pitch, his maturity and team spirit were equally notable during his remarks to the press, where he insisted that the honour was a collective achievement. 'I feel proud to have won this award. It's the result of the hard work we've done over the last three days,' he said. 'This is not an individual award; it's a collective success, and I thank my teammates.' A Mother's Blessing – A Gift to Mum When asked who he would dedicate his award to, Ouattara didn't hesitate. His answer was spontaneous and heartfelt: 'My mother.' The Burkina Faso midfielder revealed that he spoke to his mother on the morning of the match, and she told him she would pray for him to become the TotalEnergies Man of the Match —a prayer that was answered later that day. 'I dedicate this award to someone I spoke to this morning on the phone. That person is my mother. She told me she would pray for me to become Man of the Match. I know she watched me on television, and I offer this award to her.' Looking Ahead – Ouattara Aims to Lead the Stallions Further in the Tournament With this exceptional performance, Elyazare Ouattara has firmly established himself as one of the standout players in the Burkina Faso squad. He now hopes to maintain his form and emerge as one of the key figures in the 2024 edition of the TotalEnergies CHAN. As the Stallions grow in confidence and ambition, much will depend on the continued dynamism of their midfield engine. With Ouattara's determination, talent, and fighting spirit—shared with his fellow teammates—Burkina Faso will be hoping to go far in the tournament.
