12 National Teams that would have shined in 2020

Algerian national team celebrates winning the AFCON 2019 in Egypt

Image Credits: France 24

National pride is always at stake when players kit up into their national colors during major tournaments and international friendlies. National teams that shone in 2019 made a mark in international competitions and caught our attention.

The year 2019 was a great footballing year with massive tournaments including the FIFA Women’s World Cup which impressed with its biggest audience ever and the Africa Cup of Nations. In the group of teams that made an impression, others were fan favorites in the tournaments while some teams were surprise packages in the various games played during the year. Here’s a list of 12 nation men’s and women’s teams you should be following in 2020.

Men’s Teams

Algeria

Algeria won the Africa Cup of Nations for the first time in 29 years, conceding no more than 3 goals during the tournament. Their best performance before 2019 was in 2010 when they finished fourth in the competition. After a 29-year hiatus from the title, the Desert Foxes finally lifted the trophy led by Manchester City forward Riyad Mahrez. They were outside favourites from the start but put together a stellar performance against Senegal to win their group. They beat Guinea in the last 16 and also dismissed Cote d’Ivoire in the knockout rounds.

The World Cup qualifiers which were drawn in January set up the groups for qualifiers in which Algeria drew Niger, Burkina Faso and Djibouti putting them in a fairly comfortable position to qualify for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. The qualifiers which will be played in mini-league format with both home and away games will start in October with Algeria launching their campaign for a spot against Djibouti. Only one team in each of the ten groups announced by FIFA will reach the last qualification round for Qatar 2022.

Qatari national team celebrate winning the 2019 Asian Cup

Image Credits: Al Jazeera

Qatar

Qatar won the Asian Cup against Japan in China in an unprecedented final showcase. They stunned four-time champions Japan 3-1 in the final to lift their maiden title at the continental tournament. The Qatari National team was an expected winner of the Asian Cup. They have come up to be the best team in Asia after being underestimated as a second class team. In their campaign, they knocked out Iraq, South Korea, The UAE and Saudi Arabia in the group stages. As World Cup hosts in 2022, Qatar have automatic qualification to the global tournament but have proven that they are a team to be watched as they prepare for their debut on the world stage. From being a team that was considered lowly they have upped the ante and more can be expected from the 2022 World Cup host nation.

Kosovo

During the 2020 Euro qualifiers, not many would have paid any attention to Kosovo, the tiny Eastern European nation which only gained its independence from Serbia recently in 2008, making it one of the youngest nations in the world. Kosovo were inches away from a historic moment when they played in the Euro-2020 qualifiers but lost to England. They were undefeated in 14 games and made it to the playoffs of the tournament, a fact that many would have scoffed over against North Macedonia. Due to the international political crisis, some players like Xherdan Shaqiri opted to play for their immigrant countries despite being from the Kosovan background. Kosovo is on the verge of rewriting its story after making their mark on the footballing world and definitely grabbing the attention of fans across the world.

“Despite the armed conflict in the country, the game has continued to develop in the country and may be on the edge of reaping the rewards of their determination and perseverance. Nosour Qasioun came close to qualifying for the 2018 edition and this time around they find themselves in a better position to accomplish the task.”

— Margaret Mandeya, FirstTouch Africa

Sadio Mane celebrates scoring a goal at World Cup 2018 against Japan

Image Credits: Getty Images

Senegal

Aliou Cissé’s men finished second behind a well organized Algeria, coming close to their first ever AFCON title. Although beaten by Algeria in the second group match and winning all the subsequent games after that, they made it to the finals led by Liverpool talisman and 2019 CAF Best African Player of the Year, Sadio Mane. In a match that pulled brilliant saves from both goalies to extend the game into extra-time, they knocked out Tunisia in the semifinals to make it to the AFCON finals for only the second time. Sadly, for the West African nation, they could not overcome the Algerians. The Teranga Lions were drawn into a favorable group ahead of the 2022 World Cup qualifiers alongside Congo-Brazzaville, Namibia and Togo, the latter being a shadow of the side that qualified for the 2006 World Cup in Germany. Senegal also played to a 1-1 draw to Brazil in a friendly in October during the Brazil International tour, a testament to the formidable side they’ve developed into.

Syria

Syria are on the verge of an early ticket into the 2022 World Cup. Their qualifying campaign has seen them win consecutive games in Group A of the Asian qualifiers. They lead the group in which there is Philippines, China, Guam and Maldives. The war torn Asia country is an unlikely group leader at this point with higher ranked countries such as Iran and South Korea lagging in second and third in their respective groups. Despite the armed conflict in the country, the game has continued to develop in the country and may be on the edge of reaping the rewards of their determination and perseverance. Nosour Qasioun came close to qualifying for the 2018 edition and this time around they find themselves in a better position to accomplish the task.

Mardek Mrdkian #17 of Syrian competes the ball with Yu Yang #4 of China during the 2018 CFA Team China International Football match between Chinese national team and Syrian national team at Nanjing Olympic Sports Center on October 16, 2018 in Nanjing, China.

(Oct. 15, 2018 - Source: Lintao Zhang/Getty Images AsiaPac)

Madagascar

Madagascar was a surprise qualifier for AFCON but proved that they had more than earned their spot, causing some upsetting exits for the big teams in the tourney. The Barea which has poor sports infrastructure beat the odds to make their debut at AFCON, a proud moment for the island nation. During the group stages, Madagascar beat Nigeria 2-0 and Burundi 1-0 while drawing against Guinea 2-2 to top the group. In the Round of 16, Madagascar drew against DR Congo and went on to qualify for the quarter-finals on penalties. Based on their performance at AFCON, it is evident that there is still more to come from the Barea. 

Ukraine

Ukraine directly qualified for Euro 2020 ahead of Portugal after a historic 2-1 win in Lisbon to top the group. They won six games and drew two out of the eight they played to qualify for the tournament. Ukraine’s coach is former AC Millan and Chelsea and Ballon d’Or winner Andriy Shevchenko who has coached the team since 2016. Ukraine resembled a well organised team in the qualifiers and got a reward of their labors by managing to accomplish an enormous feat. This was only the third time that the East European country qualified for Euros having appeared twice, once as hosts in 2012, and in 2016 when they beat Slovenia in the play-offs.

Lucy Bronze of England celebrates with teammates after scoring her team's third goal during the 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup France Quarter Final match between Norway and England at Stade Oceane on June 27, 2019 in Le Havre, France.

(June 26, 2019 - Source: Getty Images Europe)

Women’s Teams

Italy

A resurgent Italy Women’s team sparked excitement for millions of Italians as they progressed to the quarter-finals of the 2019 World Cup. La Azzure won their group ahead of Brazil and made it to the quarterfinals after being absent from the tournament for 20 years. They beat China 2-0 in the round of 16 but succumbed to eventual finalists the Netherlands in the quarter-finals. Their performance, however, inspired support from Italian fans with over 30 million tuning in to watch their game against Brazil, contributing to the changing of biased perceptions in the country against women in the sport. Italy leads group B with the most points in the qualifiers of the 2021 Euros.

England

Phillip Neville’s England put up a commendable performance during the France World Cup but were unfortunately knocked out of the semi-finals by the USWNT. England’s squad bosted a star-studded line-up that included Lyon defender and UEFA Women’s player of the year, Lucy Bronze. Despite falling short of their ambitions of bringing the title to England and finishing fourth after losing the third-place playoff to Sweden, their overall performance is something that they can be proud of. England will defend their SheBelieves title in March during the invitational tournament comprising of USWNT, Japan and Spain who will make their tournament debut.

USWNT

We cannot fail to mention the great performance by the US Women’s National Team as they embarked to defend their title. They did so in an exciting way and they will continue to be a team we will look out for this coming year. Co-captain, Megan Rapinoe won the golden boot at 2019 the FIFA World Cup in France as they expectedly sailed through the group stages, beating hosts France in the quarter-finals to progress to the semis where they dismissed England by 2-1. USWNT will likely qualify for the Olympics when they take on Costa Rica in their first match of the CONCACAF Women’s qualifying tournament where the top two teams will qualify for Tokyo. The US are four-time Olympic gold medalists and have qualified for every edition since 1966.

Sweden

Although they did not make it to the finals, Sweden had an amazing tournament, finishing third in the World Cup and booking a place at the Summer Olympics in Tokyo. The pioneers of women’s football will once again launch their Olympic campaign as one of the three teams from Europe to qualify. In the run up to the Olympics, Sweden will join Portugal, Norway, Belgium, Germany, Italy, Denmark and New Zealand in the 27th edition of the Algarve invitational Cup in March as they prepare for a run at the Olympics. They are definitely amongst the favorites to take home some silverware after coming in second to Germany in the 2016 Olympics.

Alex Morgan and members of the United States Women's National Soccer Team are honored at a ceremony at City Hall on July 10, 2019 in New York City. The honor followed a ticker tape parade up lower Manhattan's "Canyon of Heroes" to celebrate their gold medal victory in the 2019 Women's World Cup in France.

(July 9, 2019 - Source: BRUCE BENNETT/Getty Images North America)

Netherlands

The rise of the Netherlands over the years has consisted of impressive feats at every turn. Their latest show proved their status as a giant in the women’s game, coming in second to the USWNT in the 2019 World Cup. Despite the disappointment of not earning their first World Cup title, the Oranje have already qualified for the Olympics and will make their maiden appearance in the tournament alongside Great Britain and Sweden who have also qualified from Europe. The defending European champions are currently on their way to qualify for the Euro 2021 as they lead group A.

Special mentions

Ukraine and Korea U-20

The young Ukrainian team won the 2019 U-20 men’s World Cup after beating South Korea in the final to become the new generation of players for the country. Ukraine had never made it past the Round of 16. Both teams were undefeated in their run-up to the finals. Ukraine beat Panama, Colombia, and Italy to make it to the finals. South Korea had similar success, seeing off South Africa, Argentina, Japan, Senegal and then Ecuador en route to the final.

Women’s tournaments coming up in 2020 include the exciting Tokyo Olympics and major invitational tournaments alongside the qualifiers for the Euro 2021. The 2022 World Cup qualifiers will heat up towards the end of the year as we move closer to the biggest tournament in global football.

Women’s Tournaments this year

1.       Tokyo Olympics

2.       SheBelieves International

3.       Tournoi de France

4.       Algarve Cup

5.       U-20 and U-17 Women’s World Cups

6.       African Women’s Cup of Nations

Men’s Tournaments

1.       Tokyo Olympics

2.       Euro 2020

3.       Copa America

4.       CHAN 2020

How did Salah take the "next step"?

“ In one infamous incident that occurred in Egypt, Salah reportedly helped a thief who had robbed his family’s home. ”

— Dennis Takaendesa, FirstTouch Africa

Ruthless, ferocious, vicious, prolific amongst many other vetted and approved superlatives, go a long way in describing the “Egyptian king’s” attitude in front of goal. As novel as it may sound, you just have to come to grips with the reality of it therefore. Mohamed Salah Hamed Mahrous Ghaly is the most prolific player ever in a single season, as far as the history of the English Premier League is concerned. The diminutive Egyptian’s record breaking 2017/18 season that saw him run down the wing, winging it and bagging 32 goals in 38 EPL fixtures ensured he surpassed the previous record of most goals scored in a single English top flight campaign by a single player. The record in question was once held by Alan Shearer, arguably the most famous Portuguese and Uruguayan on the planet, Cristiano Ronaldo and Luis Suarez. Not a bad company to keep, or even more accurately, to leapfrog. But the soon to be 27-year-old wasn’t always a subject of discussion when it came to goal scoring, let alone be one of the most incredible human beings alive as recognised by the infamous Time Magazine. He is an Egyptian “miracle” whose story will echo in the corridors of history for an eternity, even as we relish it now.

Mohamed Salah of Chelsea reacts after a missed chance on goal during the Barclays Premier League match between Swansea City and Chelsea at Liberty Stadium on April 13, 2014 in Swansea, Wales.

(April 12, 2014 - Source: Chris Brunskill/Getty Images Europe)

Amongst the greatest comebacks in sports entertainment

In early April, 2019, Tiger Woods’ remarkable career sent chills down most people’s spine as he went on to win the 15th Masters title in the sport affectionately known as golf. This was after he had last won his major title in 2005. In that time period, Woods had gone through several highs and lows, on and off the pitch which included a divorce with his wife, admitted infidelity and even getting locked up for suspicion of driving under the influence in 2017. In light of all this and witnessing the 43 year-old rise like a phoenix from the ashes, the world could not help but come to a standstill; politicians, entertainers and sportspeople alike.

One notable reflection was by 23-time Grand Slam tennis champion, Serena Williams, who can relate in more ways than one. She tweeted:

“I am literally in tears watching Tiger Woods, this is Greatness like no other. Knowing all you have been through physically to come back and do what you just did? Wow. Congrats a million times! I am so inspired.”

Even the 45th President of the US, Barack Obama had words for Tiger. But of course, as enticing as it may be to explore Tiger Woods’ career, this piece is not about him. Looking at Mo Salah’s career under a more microscopic lense, we would learn that the North-African defied odds to reach the levels he now soars in. With a senior career that began in the Egyptian Premier League in the books of El Mokwaloon, transiting to EPL’s Chelsea via Swiss club Basel, a few loan spells in the Italian Serie A before returning to the Premier League in the colors of Liverpool, he has had to do it the hard way.

Chasing and beating the clock

When a footballer is bound to become one of the world’s best, it is usually easy to tell by the time they reach the age of 18. Most of them would have already made inroads into the dressing rooms of some of the biggest clubs in the world. The references are not too far off, the great Brazilian Pele won a FIFA World Cup title as a teenager and so did the highly rated Frenchman, Kylian Mbappe who just turned 20 but has been on everyone’s lips for as long as we can remember. The same applies for the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo who started terrorising defences at the tender age of 18 in Manchester United colors and so did his foe, Lionel Messi. The Argentine magician was scouted by Barcelona when he was just 13 and made his debut for Barcelona at age 16. Salah does not fall into that category; he was definitely a late bloomer who had to chase the clock in the primitive years of his career. The potential was palpable, but the Liverpool forward was still playing in the Egyptian Premier League as late as the age of 20, quite a bit obscured from the rest of the world. At that time, his partners and age-mates in the infamous Liverpool trident forward, Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino were already at French Ligue 1’s Metz and Bundesliga’s Hoffenheim respectively. He first made contact with European football in 2012 after Swiss club, Basel FC, organised a friendly match with the Egyptian U-23 team for the purposes of getting a closer look at the young Mohamed. This was of course during the time when the Egyptian Premier League was suspended following the Port Said Stadium riot. In his two years with Basel, Mo Salah scored 9 goals in 47 appearances being deployed mainly as a winger and henceforth attracted interest from the London club, Chelsea, who won his signature for £11 million in January 2014. He was now 22, becoming the first Egyptian to represent the London Blues. It looked like he had finally made it, playing for a side that was strong enough to compete for the coveted English Premier League title.

However, the Chelsea episode became one that Mohamed Salah had to learn to forget quickly. He only managed a total of 13 appearances between 2014-16, being way down the Chelsea pecking order that was then headed by the likes of Eden Hazard and Oscar. In fact, the diminutive Egyptian looked like a kid when compared to age-mates like Hazard. The then Chelsea boss who snubbed him, even remarked that he wasn’t ready to play at the highest level:

“It was with me in charge that Salah came to Chelsea. But he came as a young kid, physically he was not ready, mentally he was not ready, socially and culturally he was lost and everything was tough for him.”

— Jose Mourinho, former Chelsea & Man United Manager

After it looked like stardom belonged to one of Egypt’s Pharaohs, at the prime football age of 24, the forward was let out of the Chelsea door and left licking his wounds. For the second time in his career, he had to chase the clock. Italy became his home and what happened next couldn’t have been in any script.

Mohamed Salah of AS Roma kicks the ball during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Atalanta BC at Stadio Olimpico on April 15, 2017 in Rome, Italy.

(April 14, 2017 - Source: Paolo Bruno/Getty Images Europe)

“Need for Speed Most Wanted”

If he was ever going to escape the less successful route of fellow Africans such as compatriot, Essam El Hadary, who had a brief stint in Europe before returning home to Africa, Salah needed speed, on and off the pitch. And speed is he what he got. He quickly became the most popular African in the whole of Italy as the European nation bowed down to the Egyptian King. He initially left Chelsea on loan to Fiorentina in the winter transfer window of 2015 where he went on to score 6 goals in 16 matches. The Italian Serie A club became keen on making the 18-month loan move permanent but the King had other plans, he was looking at a certain crown only he could see, and consequently marched on to Rome. It was at AS Roma where Salah established himself as a hot footballing prospect in the whole of Europe and eventually becoming a subject of transfer speculation. In his two seasons with the Italian giant, the winger bagged 14 goals in 34 matches before reaching a 15 goal feat in other 31 matches, in the 2016/17 season when he had made his Roma loan permanent. An AS Roma Player of the Season award in the 2015/16 campaign had warranted a permanent grab by the Italian club. It quickly became apparent that the Egyptian’s time in Europe was far from over. He won the 2016 Globe Soccer Best Arab Player of the Year to add to his boyhood accolades that included the 2012 CAF Most Promising Talent of the Year, 2012 UAFA Golden Boy and the 2013 SAFP Golden Player. It was at Roma where Salah kind of figured and started flourishing in what has become his best position. Under Luciano Spalleti, he established himself more as left-footed right winger, with a crispy first touch, slick dribbles and able to cut inside either to score or play-in his teammates. That period will forever go down in a history as a proper audition for the King’s global dominance and acquired ruthlessness in front of goal. Acquired because it was more than apparent that Salah didn’t have such a huge talent as Neymar Jnr or Messi. His first class work ethic and relentlessness were the ingredients that eventually took him to the very top.

 Records come tumbling down in record times

Fatefully, Jürgen Klopp and Liverpool acquired the African in a then record fee for the club, £36.9 million and needed only one year to turn Chelsea’s prodigal son into football’s most priceless treasure. The simple instruction by the German gaffer, Jürgen Klopp, for Mo to occupy a more advanced central opposition from the right wing, ahead of Roberto Firmino and Senegalese Sadio Mane, opened a whole new world. In 365 days, Mo Salah silenced critics, gained new ones and won the favor of the entire world by running down a wing. Records set in summer, winter and all other seasons and times that have names, had no choice but to bow in the presence of the Egyptian King. His 32 goals ensured he eclipsed the record for most goals scored in single Premier League season, winning the 2017/18 Golden Boot in the process. He also became the fourth fastest player to reach 50 goals milestone in Premier League history, in only 72 games behind Andy Cole, Alan Shearer and Ruud Van Nistelrooy.

In fact, let’s just list down all his most important records lest they become obscured in these paragraphs:

Mohamed Salah of Liverpool celebrates after scoring his team's first goal during the Premier League match between Liverpool FC and Cardiff City at Anfield on October 27, 2018 in Liverpool, United Kingdom.

(Oct. 26, 2018 - Source: Jan Kruger/Getty Images Europe)

England

• Most goals in a 38-game Premier League season: 32 goals in 2017–18

• Most goals by an African player in a Premier League season: 32 goals in 2017–18

• Most Premier League Player of the Month awards in a single season: 3 (November 2017, February 2018 and March 2018)

• First player to outscore three Premier League teams in a single Premier League season: West Brom (31), Swansea City (28) and Huddersfield Town (28) in 2017–18

• Highest-scoring Egyptian in Premier League history: 50 goals in 72 games

Europe

• Most goals by an African player in a UEFA Champions League season: 11 goals in 2017–18

Mohamed Salah of Liverpool wins the trophy for the FIFA Puskas Award 2018 during the The Best FIFA Football Awards Show at Royal Festival Hall on September 24, 2018 in London, England.

(Sept. 23, 2018 - Source: Dan Istitene/Getty Images Europe)

Liverpool

• Most goals in a debut season: 44 goals in 2017–18

• Most goals in a season by a Liverpool player in the Premier League era: 44 goals in 2017–18

• Most top-flight goals in a season by a Liverpool player: 32 goals in Premier League 2017–18 (shared with Ian Rush)

• Most Liverpool Player of the Month awards in a season: 7 months in 2017–18

• Fastest player to Score 50 Goals for Liverpool: 65 games in 2018–19

• Fastest Liverpool player to Score 50 Premier League Goals: 69 games in 2018–19

Egypt

• Egypt's all-time highest scorer in FIFA World Cup history: 2 Goals in FIFA World Cup 2018 (shared with Abdulrahman Fawzi, 2 Goals in FIFA World Cup 1934)

• Egypt's all-time highest scorer in CAF Africa Cup of Nations qualification: 14 goals

• Egypt's third all-time top scorers: 39 goals (behind Hossam Hassan 69 goals, and Hassan El-Shazly 42 goals)

Italy

• Highest-scoring Egyptian in Serie A history: 35 goals in 81 games

Mohamed Salah of Liverpool celebrates scoring his sides first goal during the Premier League match between Liverpool and Chelsea at Anfield on November 25, 2017 in Liverpool, England.

(Nov. 24, 2017 - Source: Shaun Botterill/Getty Images Europe)

 Made in Egypt, flourished in Merseyside

 A befitting summary to coin Mo Salah’s career is one of an individual made in Egypt where he first tasted professional football but eventually flourished in the Liverpool part of Merseyside. One year, one club, one manager and one Red Liverpool inarguably handed him the biggest boost of his career so far. He entered the elite class of footballers on the backdrop of being sold by Chelsea. By the end of the 2017/18 season, he had earned a spot amongst the world’s best three best footballers as selected by FIFA, at the expense of five time Balon d’Or winner, Lionel Messi. The first time an African had been included in such a list since the days of Liberian President, George Weah. Mo Salah eventually finished 3rd behind Luka Modric and Cristiano Ronaldo. He became a world favorite. The online community was outraged at Salah missing out on the FIFA Best Player of the Year Award as well as the FIFPro World XI to the extent that he was compensated with a FIFA Puskas Award for the best goal, which looked like he hardly deserved given the goals he contented with. The King earned new territories as England, especially Merseyside pledged allegiance. Songs such as “Mo Salah running down the winger” were composed in his adoration and he has never walked alone, since he wore the Liverpool Red.

“A better human being than he is a footballer”

Not least to his outstanding on-the-pitch achievements, Salah has been just as greater if not better off the field of play. The recent recognition by the Times Magazine as one of the 100 most influential human beings alive, even earning a place amongst the six cover stars of the magazine, crowns his exploits. He has been applauded for calling out the importance of raising the bar on women equality in his culture.

Mohamed Salah of Egypt during the International Friendly match between Jamacia and Egypt at The Matchroom Stadium on June 04, 2014 in London, England.

(June 3, 2014 - Source: Charlie Crowhurst/Getty Images Europe)

British Comedian and Liverpool fan, John Oliver who “absolutely” loves the footballer labelled him “a better human being than he is a footballer.” Even adding that “he’s one of the best football players in the world.”

The Times Magazine recognition comes after Mo Salah has grabbed many other headlines for humanitarian or advocacy work. In one infamous incident that occurred in Egypt, Salah reportedly helped a thief who had robbed his family’s home. He convinced his father to drop the charges, financially assisted the said thief and tried getting him a job. He has donated money to build a school and hospital as part of the regeneration projects in Nagrig, his hometown where 65% of the people live in poverty. It is reported that he has assisted more than 450 families to date by giving them monthly allowances and also chipped in to help the Egyptian government foot some bills in desperate times.

Still fresh to most memories, Salah went to “war” with the Egyptian FA for using his image as political capital and advocating for the dissolution of irregularities, some of which are believed to have indirectly contributed to their early 2018 FIFA World cup exit.

One of the most amusing incidents of all was when the close to 100 million North African nation went to the polls in 2018. A sizeable spoilt ballot papers which read “Mo Salah for President” were quite a joy to behold for all humorous souls. Even Vodafone Egypt once ran a promotion to add more caller minutes to their subscribers whenever the king scored.

Time won’t permit us to rediscover and celebrate graffiti of the Liverpool forward in the Egyptian capital of Cairo. All his remarkable achievements and influence becomes even more amplified in the knowledge that he is devout Muslim, almost to a level unprecedented in sports entertainment. He has slowly become a figure of inclusivity.

The King to welcome the rest of Africa

After being the main man in Egypt’s historic 2018 FIFA World Cup qualification, the first ever since 1990, by being the Pharaohs’ top scorer in the qualifiers, Salah returns for international duty in June 2019. He is expected to inspire the host nation to a record eighth Africa Cup of Nations title. After missing out on the 2015 and 2017 AFCON glory, the continent’s best player for the years 2017 & 2018 will be all out to capture a title that has deluded his illustrious career. There is no better motivation than to do it in his own backyard. With Liverpool in touching distance of the 2018/19 English Premier League and UEFA Champions League title, it could be yet another magnificent for the king. But rest assured, the African oppositions has never been intimidated by greatness, with them exuding such as well. The likes of teammate Sadio Mane, Wilfried Zaha, Ahmed Musa and Percy Tau will be worthy opponents on the road to glory.

In the opening 2019 AFCON finals match, Egypt will face the challenge of a tricky Zimbabwean Warriors before squaring off with DR Congo and Uganda.

“We need to change the way we treat women in our culture. I support the woman more than I did before, because I feel like she deserves more than what they give her now, at the moment. That has to be, it’s not optional. ”

— Mohamed Salah, Liverpool & Egyptian forward

Is there a big club who does not want Napoli & Senegalese's Koulibaly?

“Chelsea tried their luck with €100 million but it was not enough to tempt the Italian club. The response was a straight up “Koulibaly is not for sale.””

— Simiso Shabangu, FirstTouch Africa

Kalidou Koulibaly of SSC Napoli in action during the serie A match between SSC Napoli and AC Milan at Stadio San Paolo on August 25, 2018 in Naples, Italy.

(Aug. 25, 2018 - Source: Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images Europe)

When I was growing up, all I knew was that nothing sells better than hot cookies on a cold day. But, now that I am this old I have realized that talent sells more than anything in soccer. Kalidou Koulibaly has seen this “my phenomenon” come true in his life, as every day, he and Napoli have to continuously reject big European clubs that want to add him to their squads. What is it that these clubs are really looking to get from the Senegalese defender?

A precious gift for Mourinho after failing to land Alderweireld
Jose Mourinho and the Red Devils, did not even go behind the walls to admit this but backed his wish to have the 27-year-old Senegalese defender in his team by tabling an £80 million offer.  Even though this is an incredible price for a defender (which would surpasses the world record defender fee of £75m), reports insist that Napoli player demanded £90 million for what they have groomed with intricate care. It is not, however, clear if the Red Devils will succumb to this demand but all we know is that, right now, Koulibaly is still doing bits at Napoli.

Chelsea have their eyes on him
During the World Cup, Chelsea also had their eyes set on the Senegalese “wall,” impressed by Koulibaly’s physique that enables him to make short passes while keeping an eagle’s eye on the opponent. He was voted amongst the Top 11’ at the annual Oscar del Calcio gala last November. Chelsea tried their luck with €100 million but it was not enough to tempt the Italian club. The response was a straight up “Koulibaly is not for sale.”

Even Liverpool wanted a piece of Koulibaly
At some point before acquiring the Virgil Van Dyk in a current record deal for a defender Liverpool also tried their luck with a £36.7million bid and they too got the same rejection. Even though Koulibaly did express that he would be interested in playing for a Premier League club (not specifically Liverpool), right now he has to stay with Napoli. But will he really?

Neymar of Paris Saint-Germain is challenged by Mario Rui and Kalidou Koulibaly of Napoli during the Group C match of the UEFA Champions League between Paris Saint-Germain and SSC Napoli at Parc des Princes on October 24, 2018 in Paris, France.

(Oct. 23, 2018 - Source: Justin Setterfield/Getty Images Europe)

The catch
If the player is in such high demand, why can’t his club really let him go? The player has a contract that obligates him to be with Napoli until the June of 2023 so that is why his club has such a strong grip on his negotiations. At least, all these clubs have about 5 years to sweeten their deals, polish their approaches and spice up their baits until they get hold of this player. The player is also personally committed to the team and his coach. He was reported saying, my coach “rediscovered me, he gave me confidence. He really is a genius, he sees things others don’t see. He makes you understand how football is and isn’t predictable.”

After all is said and done, take my word for it, it looks like it’s going to become increasingly harder to keep the one of the world’s finest of not “the finest”. A potential move is imminent. The real question is when?

2019 AWCON: One last dance for SA & Nigeria as the women cap off a superb tourney

“The 2018 AWCON finals are set to be high-energy and tightly contested, one that promises to be an exciting watch. For now, it’s too close to call who will emerge as champions after Saturday’s final. What remains is to pick a side; Banyana Banyana or The Super Falcons.”

— Margaret Mandeya, FirstTouch Africa

Nigeria and South Africa will play each other in the 2018 AWCON finals this Saturday. The winners will be crowned the champions of the continent for the next two years.

Francisca Ordega #17 of Nigeria celebrates her game-tying goal against Sweden with Onome Ebi #5, Asisat Oshoala #8 and Ngozi Ebere #23 during the FIFA Women's World Cup Canada 2015 Group D match between Sweden and Nigeria at Winnipeg Stadium on June 8, 2015 in Winnipeg, Canada.

(June 7, 2015 - Source: Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images North America)

The tournament has come full circle as these two teams will meet for the second time in the finals of the 2018 Africa Women’s Cup of Nations. The Super Eagles conceded a crucial goal in the first encounter and lost the match. Banyana Banyana have played the entire tournament with the same energy and vigour they had during that euphoric 1-0 win. On Tuesday, Banyana dismissed Mali in the semi-final in which they put two goals past Les Aigles without any response from the West African side. While Nigeria had earlier beat out Cameroon in a penalty shoot-out where Cameroonian star player Gaëlle Enganamouit failed to convert from the spot.

South Africa is on the threshold of making history and claiming their very first AWCON title. The 2-0 semi-final victory over Mali already ensures that they will be at the FIFA World Cup in France next year. All eyes are on head coach Desiree Ellis to see whether or not she will be able to do the amazing and lead South Africa to both their first world cup appearance and their first continental cup trophy. The coach who led SA to the 2018 COSAFA title triumph has done an incredible job with the team so far and could be bound for the spectacular.

"Everyone was magnificent, the players, staff, technical team and the people who don't usually get a mention as each and everyone played a part.”

Desiree Ellis, South Africa Head Coach

The Nigerians are very familiar with this stage of the tournament, making it to the finals more times than any other team on the continent. As defending champions, the pressure is on them to assert their dominance over their highly motivated counterparts. The Super Falcons have been less impressive than their foes from the south in this tournament. Despite this, head coach Thomas Dennerby is confident that they can overcome Banyana Banyana to lift the trophy for the 11th time come Saturday.

“When it comes to the final we will do whatever it takes to bring the cup back to Nigeria. ...We have a very good chance to beat South Africa, now it's time to rest two days, the extra day before the final.”

Thomas Dennerby, Nigeria Head Coach

(L-R) Sanah Mollo of South Africa celebrates the third goal with Janine van Wyk during the women's friendly match between South Africa and Bayer Leverkusen at Sport School Hennef on July 12, 2012 in Recklinghausen, Germany.

(July 11, 2012 - Source: Christof Koepsel/Getty Images Europe)

Prior to the finals on Saturday, Cameroon and Mali will play each other in the third-place playoff where the winner will also book a place in next year’s FIFA World Cup. This will be a consolation prize for The Indomitable Lionesses who failed to make it to the finals after the penalty shoot-out lottery missing out on a  good chance of lifting the trophy.

The 2018 AWCON finals are set to be high-energy and tightly contested, one that promises to be an exciting watch. For now, it’s too close to call who will emerge as champions after Saturday’s final. What remains is to pick a side; Banyana Banyana or The Super Falcons, who is your favourite to take the trophy home?

FT African Legends Series: Perpetua Nkwocha, the best ever?

Ester of Brazil holds off Perpetua Nkwocha of Nigeria during the Women's First Round Group F match between Nigeria and Brazil at the Workers' Stadium on Day 4 of the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games on August 12, 2008 in Beijing, China.

(Aug. 11, 2008 - Source: Jeff Gross/Getty Images AsiaPac)

While growing up, she wanted to be a nun or a lawyer, but the passion on the field of play just called out too loudly for her to resist. Perpetua Nkwocha is arguably one of the best players that have played soccer in Africa, men and women included. The attacking midfielder was known for her gracious ability to blend speed and flair to always deliver masterpiece performances. Beyond that, we want  to dig on who exactly she is and how much she has done for herself, her supporters and her country.

Overview

She was born in Nigeria on the 3rd of January 1976 and has always been passionate about soccer. After playing in Sweden for the Sunnanå SK team, it was then fit for her to coach a Swedish team Clemensnäs IF which plays in Swedish Women’s Football Division 2. She continues to offer her expertise on the game abroad, and also as part of the coaching team of the Super Falcons (Nigeria's Women National team). Evidently, the 42-year old believes that the best way to retire is not only to buy a lavish holiday home on an island, but in sharing all the lessons learnt with the younger generation. She has also graciously participated in 4 FIFA World Cups and of course the Olympics in Sydney, Athens and Beijing. Even though she began her international career at 23, it did not take her long to be at the top because within five years, she had many eyes glued on her.

Perpetua Nkwocha of Nigeria celebrates after scoring their first goal during the FIFA Women's World Cup 2011 Group A match between Canada and Nigeria at the Rudolf-Harbig Stadium on July 5, 2011 in Dresden, Germany.

(July 4, 2011 - Source: Scott Heavey/Getty Images Europe)

She just could not stop winning!

She was voted the Africa’s Woman Footballer of the Year, 4 times which is more than any other woman in the continent. The prominence of the title lies in its ability to recognise a player’s skills and the hard work invested. In 2004, she got the Best African Female Footballer Award in the African Championship which led to her being declared the most valuable Nigerian player. Out of the 7 CAF Women's Championships she participate in, she won 5. One of her memorably classic performances was the 2004 CAF performance where she scored 4 goals against Cameroon enough to snatch the tournament title in the final. Actually, she only took sixty minutes to bag the quad . In the Nigerian squad, the invisible messianic cloak belonged to Perpetua beyond reasonable doubt. She just could not stop winning things, even collecting more individual honors for being the top goal scorer in the Women’s AFCON thrice  in 2004, 2006 and 2010.

Goal machine turned perfect bride

After gracing the field of play for a number of years, she graced the magical aisle and the golden altar two years ago when she got married to her long time sweetheart Ernest Ikechukwu Nuufoh. During the wedding, her husband alluded to Nkwocha’s calm nature which he could not resist. Her wedding is not just a successful love story, but it goes all the way to combating stereotypes about women not being able to balance a successful career and marriage. Furthermore, Nkwocha also proves that whoever said women who play soccer are too “manly” to get married was wrong. It is possible and beautiful for women to fall in love with other people and soccer.

“One of her memorably classic performances was the 2004 CAF performance where she scored 4 goals against Cameroon enough to snatch the tournament title in the final. Actually, she only took sixty minutes to bag the quad . In the Nigerian squad, the invisible messianic cloak belonged to Perpetua beyond reasonable doubt.”

— Simiso Shabangu, FirstTouch Africa

Five reasons why you should watch the upcoming AFCON 2019

There is much talk about the UEFA Champions League being the best club competition to exist and only second to the FIFA World Cup which is an international tournament. Because of that, not much attention has been paid to a tournament like the African Cup of Nations where the best teams on the African continent pitch against each other to fight for the crown of “Wakanda”. Such an exceptional tournament was left for us Africans to enjoy and the rest of the world was starved of the drama that comes from this prestigious fight for the power of the “Black Panther”. Not anymore though because FirstTouch Africa is here to keep you up to speed with the history of the tournament - to give you the necessary context of the African Cup of Nations to be hosted by Cameroon in 2019. Here’s the reasons why you should watch the upcoming AFCON tournament.

1. Discover the best African talents & next breakout stars

Hassan Ahmed, captain of Egypt celebrates winning the Africa Cup of Nations final match between Ghana and Egypt from Universitaria Stadium on January 31, 2010 in Luanda, Angola.

(Jan. 30, 2010 - Source: Gallo Images/Getty Images Europe)

It is in such a tournament that the biggest talents on the African continent are given the opportunity to represent their nations against the already established players. Why is this so if you may ask? Probably because not all the best players from the continent play in Europe. Some players either choose to play on the motherland throughout their career, or some are still yet to be scouted by the biggest clubs in the world and will bring their A game in an audition for a big move across the world. In the past, we witnessed players like the Egyptian goalkeeper, El Hadary, shining in the Africa Cup of Nations ahead of the likes of Victor Enyeama of Nigeria, who played in the French Ligue. The Egyptian played for Al-Ahly for the greater part of his career because he wanted African football to be competitive and he contributed to that by offering his services in the local leagues to provide a benchmark of what quality goalkeeping should look like. The 2019 Africa Cup of Nations Cameroon will be an opportunity for you to discover such talents that you do not get to see on the match-days in the English Premier League live or any other European leagues.

2. Watch the drama as it unfolds

This tournament is popular for the its dramatic moments. At the top of any African football fan’s mind, the shocking defeat of Ivory Coast (Cote d’Ivoire) at the hands of Zambia in the 2012 AFCON final should be serve as a vivid memory. I mean, as much as Zambia had played some great football in the earliest stages and achieved some great results, not many saw them having enough to go all the way especially when they faced Didier Drogba’s team in his last outing for his nation on February 12, 2012. Shocking results are just one of the many dramatic things that happen in this competition. There are some memorable moments about how soccer players get bookings (yellow cards) for showboating on the pitch in the local leagues but some still remain eager to show their fans that they are the entertainers, more so on the international scene. Apart from that, there are some bizarre goal celebrations like the ones made by DR Congo goalkeeper, Robert Kidiaba. You can’t explain such things. Check it out here and drop your thought about it in the comment section below.

3. Be a judge to the notion that Africa is developing

Also, following the African cup of nations live will be an awesome opportunity to witness the developments happening on the African continent. Just recently, a corruption scandal in Ghana made headlines and the Ghanaian government responded effectively by dismissing the officials accused of dragging the continent backwards in the fight against corruption. This will be a priceless experience to see things from a different perspective from how it has been presented in the past by the European media. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has also made efforts to warn Cameroon to adhere to international standards if they wish to remain the hosts of the tournament next year. Will the stadiums be ready and in better condition than in the previous years? Is Africa to truly on the rise as suggested by many or is it just a myth? All these questions will be answered not by anyone else but through your own observation as this tournament unfolds in June 2019.

“Such an exceptional tournament was left for us Africans to enjoy and the rest of the world was starved of the drama that comes from this prestigious fight for the power of the “Black Panther.””

— Tinotenda Magiya, FirstTouch Africa

4. Witness an amazing cultural exchange

Angola fans dejected during the Africa Cup of Nations Quarter Final match between Angola and Ghana from the November 11 Stadium on January 24, 2010 in Luanda, Angola.

(Jan. 23, 2010 - Source: Gallo Images/Getty Images Europe)

There are about 54 different countries on the continent of Africa but not all of them will be represented at the AFCON finals in Cameroon 2019. Only 24 teams will be present and their fans will be flying from all over the world to support their teams. This means that people of different backgrounds, religion, ethnicity, among other social and cultural differences will come together and add some spice to the way they support the game of football. It is through this diversity that we discovered the Vuvuzela as an African instrument that later on spread across the world of football and is now used in many stadiums around the world. The talking drums of Nigeria are no exception. This upcoming tournament promises to add something new like it always does even when the official teams to play at the tournament are still yet to be confirmed.

5. Broaden your knowledge of football

Zooming out of your comfort zone and exploring a new soccer tournament in the Africa Cup of Nations presents an opportunity to widen football knowledge of any avid soccer fan. Instead of listening to the so-called football experts about African soccer, be your own pundit and witness the bias around soccer on this continent. Get to know more about the backgrounds of your favorite players among other things. The tournament is ready for you! Are you ready for it?

FT World Cup 2018: Senegal's Tournament in Review

The best African team of the Tournament denied a knockout spot due to the controversial tiebreaker

Here at FirstTouch, we predicted Senegal would have a good tournament. As reported by Dennis Takaendesa, Aliou Cisse's men were well coached and well prepared to make a statement at the World Cup 2018 similar to the Senegalese team from 2002, but they just fell short of their knockout round goal. They did, however, play a brave and tactically effective brand of football that can and should be a blueprint for their fellow African representatives at future tournaments.

Senegal vs Poland [June 19]

FirstTouch was in Russia to cover this game live from Moscow. Spartak Stadium provided the arena for the Senegalese team to seize their first chance to make an impression on the World Cup 2018 tournament, and they did not disappoint. Cisse organized his team in a 4-4-2 formation to effectively punish a sluggish Polish side that was all too tentative in possession. Sadio Mane provided a consistent attacking spark for his side and his powerful run into the Polish half helped set up the chance for Idrissa Gueye to shot and score from an admittedly fortunate deflection. Senegal had created their own luck, however, and was rewarded towards the end of a good first half. The game shifted in the second half with Poland chasing the match and Senegal sitting slightly deeper to defend and then counterattack. In games so tightly contested, opportunities to score are at a premium and Niang took advantage of a poor back pass from Poland's Krychowiak to score the second goal of the match. Krychowiak, however, was able to make amends for his mistake, although it proved too little too late when he scored a well-directed header from a Polish set piece towards the end of the match. Senegal was able to see out the rest of the match and effectively limit the impact of one of the world's top strikers in Robert Lewandowski. This first victory represented an important and symbolic result similar to the 1-0 victory against France that Cisse led his Senegalese side to achieve, but also represented the first victory for an African nation at the World Cup. 

Senegal vs Japan [June 24]

With an all-important three points from the first game, Senegal just needed a result in their second match against Japan to stay in contention for a knockout round spot in Group H. However, the same level of organization and focus in important moments would be required to achieve success against a Japanese side that also won three points from their first game. Sadio Mane helped Senegal have a strong start with an 11th-minute goal, but that early goal was canceled out in the 35th minute by a Japanese goal from Inui. In a first half littered with chances for both sides, 1-1 was a scoreline that betrayed the amount of attacking football that was on display. Inui proved a constant threat for Senegal throughout the game and especially in the second half. However, Senegal was able to retake the lead with a second goal from Wague. The lead did not last long enough because a crucial moment in the game did not produce enough focus from Senegal's goalkeeper, and N'Diaye did not properly deal with a cross that Keisuke Honda was able to capitalize on and bring Japan level. Although one point was a result that kept Senegal's knockout chances very much alive, it was in hindsight an opportunity missed getting all three points. 

Senegal vs Colombia [June 28]

With four points heading into their final Group H matchup against Colombia, Senegal's destiny was not completely in their own hands and the points dropped against Japan came back to haunt them. This last match pitted Mane's men against a Colombia side attempting to create their own path into the knockout rounds and that had just comprehensively beaten Poland 3-0. Senegal started strong again, creating a number of chances that they should have capitalized on, and VAR was used to overturn a penalty awarded to Sadio Mane after a last-ditch tackle from Davidson Sanchez. The game grew tenser as it progressed with fewer chances being created. Poland assuming a 1-0 lead against Japan meant that both Senegal and Colombia would have gone through with a tie, however, Yerry Mina's header from a 74th-minute corner kick meant that Senegal had to chase the game. Their efforts bore nothing by the end of the game and this represented Senegal's first loss in a group stage game of the World Cup. This loss also meant that a tiebreaker was needed to separate Senegal and Japan. FIFA's new tiebreaker is based upon a 'fair play' ranking that keeps track of a teams' yellow and red cards. Such a tiebreaker has been deemed by many experts and fans as wildly inefficient, especially when watching the end of both games. Japan was more than happy to keep possession between their defenders and Poland, with nothing left to play for, saw little need in pressing them to retrieve the ball and score the second goal. Senegal, unfortunately, were made to chase the game due to another lapse in focus during a set piece. Yellow and red cards are not a measure of a team's success nor should be a deciding factor in a tournament with such differing standards in referee judgments. Senegal should feel hard done by such a tiebreaker, but ultimately, it was two decisive moments where a lapse in focus in each moment cost them a spot in the knockout stages. With that 1-0 loss to Colombia, it meant that for the first time in 36 years there would be zero African nations in the Round of 16 at a World Cup. 

Lessons Learned

1. An organized game plan and tactical flexibility is great until it is all undone by lapses in focus

2. Senegal must continue to improve, but already have a solid group of talented players led by Sadio Mane and coach, Aliou Cisse

3. Can Senegal play this well at AFCON 2019 next summer? They must certainly improve their goal-scoring ability to do so. 

Evaluation

Senegal was the best African team at the World Cup 2018 but still came up short due to lapses in focus during crucial moments. In a Group H that was there for the taking, Senegal should not have allowed themselves to be eliminated by a senseless tiebreaker. However, Aliou Cisse did provide a blueprint for the other African nations looking to perform in future World Cup tournaments. Tactical flexibility coupled with an organized team structure can help all African teams close the gap on the rest of the world. Perhaps, the fact that Cisse was a former player and was able to inspire and demand the respect of his team since he had led Senegal to the Round of 16 as a player also played a part in the overall team cohesiveness that was certainly missing from some of the other African nations. 

Critical Issue

Unfortunately, this seems to be a consistent issue with not just African teams, but all teams throughout the world and that is solid goalkeeper play. A better goalkeeper would have certainly meant a different fate for Senegal, but also a sharper focus during set-pieces and other critical moments during the match. 

FT World Cup 2018: Tunisia's Tournament in Review

Like all African states, the Eagles of the Carthage came into the World Cup oozing with hope and pride for the African continent. Little did they know that they will be slapped with a loss from England, followed by a heavy blow of loss from Belgium. To redeem themselves, the Tunisians exited the tournament with inflicting the same kind of loss on Panama with a 2-1 win. Even though the departure was sooner than hoped for, the lessons learned were timely. Below is an overview of the learning curve.

Tunisia vs England

FirstTouch had predicted that this should be a game not to miss because of the certainty that the Eagles will bring their fight forward. They did live up to the expectation. They were flexible enough to change their strategy to a 5-3-1-1 during their second half of the game which tightened the bolts and made it hard for England to go past their defense line. The pressure on England was too much. Only Harry Kane stood in their way to victory when he scored twice for England and only allowing Tunisia to take one goal away. The 2-1 loss was not enough to discourage the North Africans as they went to devise more strategies to face Belgium in their next game.

Tunisia vs Belgium

This was the hardest and most dramatic match that the team faced throughout the tournament. Firstly, they had a new man (Farouk Ben Mustaph) at the goal post after their initial goalkeeper Mouez Hassen got injured in their first match against England. This level of flexibility is commendable. This did, of course, have negative implications for their game. Secondly, two of their players had to leave the game early due to injuries. It might have been these loopholes that allow Belgium to kick in the ball into the net 5 times. Lukaku scored two goals before the first half. Even after he left the game, the rest of the team carried the job to the very end of the 5-2 victory. This was the lowest point for the Eagles, but not all hope was lost because they still needed to face Panama.

Tunisia vs Panama

Tunisia proved that losing your former battles does not translate to absolute loss. You learn from them and come back stronger, as they gave Panama the same taste of what England gave them: 2-1 loss. In this game, Panama struck first in the 33rd minute with Jose Luis Rodriguez. This was after the Tunisian goalkeeper had not just one grip of the ball, but held it twice in the 18th minute to make sure that they did not lose this one. Tunisia was not held back by that first stab, as Fakhreddine Ben Youssef scored in the 50th minute. Just 16 minutes before the referee blew the whistle, Wahbi Khazri came in to redeem the team and ensured that the team leaves the tournament with some respect. The team is not just leaving empty handed but leaving with some lessons that will inform their next tournaments.

"For Tunisia's narrative, it's one of slight disappointment. We went into the tournament not expecting a miracle after having lost our best player Msakni. We knew our only chance was to get a result against England. We fought hard and were just 90 seconds away from making the country proud. That loss demoralized us and we went into the Belgium game physically and mentally weakened. We couldn't capitalize on our chances, and we were left fighting for our honor against Panama. We were able to salvage what could've been yet another winless World Cup (Tunisia holds the record of most winless games in a row with 11 or 12). The win against Panama was our first in 40 years!" - From Tunisian Fan Perspective, Amine

Lessons Learned

• Being flexible enough to change your strategy in the middle of the game is important.

• The ability to play in different roles is a definite treasure for teams.

• Learning from your mistakes as a team is the whole point of the game.

• The ability to persevere through a match can enable a team to turn its losses to amazing wins.

Evaluation

Not all good plays result in a win. Tunisia played well in the team, especially when it came to the strength of its defensive line. The only issue is that they conceded too many goals, but as their coach Nabil Maaloul says, it was only when they “met with very tough opponents”. The coach went on to say that they came into the group hoping that they could at least be third in the group, and yes, their hopes were fulfilled.

Critical Issue

They need to train more of their goalkeepers to avoid the concession to so many goals. The ability to shoot right at the net would also be necessary for them to be at their best at the Africa Cup of Nations.

FT World Cup 2018: Morocco's Tournament in Review

Lacked a cutting edge, but a lot of positives to pick up from one of the toughest groups

If we are to be realistic, not much was expected of Morocco after being seeded in Group B with European giants Portugal, Spain as well as Iran. Of course, we were behind them as they raised the flag of Africa sky high and hoped that they would have enough to cause an upset in the group and prove that matches are not won on paper. Here’s a recap of their performance in the tournament.

Morocco vs Iran (June 15)

FirstTouch Africa previewed the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia competition ahead of time and we anticipated that they would bring their exciting passing game to Iran and dazzle the fans. They never came short of that expectation. For the longest parts of the match, Morocco was the dominant team. Benatia was rock solid at the back as usual, and Amrabat was a threat on the byline. What was lacking for the Lions of the Atlas (أسود الأطلس‎) was that Didier Drogba type of forward who could bury all the chances home especially the ones they created in the first 20 minutes. They played like their lives depended on it, and it was no surprise that Iran had only 32% possession to show for their lucky victory against the African team. Morocco unfortunately lost by virtually the last kick of the match through an own goal by Aziz Bouhaddouz on the 95th minute. That performance was promising, and expectations started building up towards the match against the European Champions, Portugal.

Portugal vs Morocco (June 20)

Morocco needed a response but they could only do so much in a match against a defensively resolute Portugal. Cristiano Ronaldo scored early for Portugal through a fierce header on the 4th minute, and it was enough to confirm Morocco’s early exit from the biggest individual sporting event in the world as they failed to find the back of the net for the second consecutive match. That one goal kept the fans on the edge of their seats throughout the match with Morocco giving all the effort they could in a do-or-die match. The Portuguese full-back, Rafael Guerrero had the longest 90 minutes of his career facing Amrabat and Dirar who bombed upfield whenever they had the opportunity. Again, no one was on the receiving end of the dangerous balls from the flanks and Morocco had no one to blame but themselves for not finishing past Rui Patricio. With two defeats, Morocco was out of the tournament days into the competition.

Spain vs Morocco (June 25)

It was a match of pride really. Irzem and Atlasi were out to prove that they were not a pushover and issue a strong closing statement as they bowed out of the tournament. Morocco learned from their mistakes as forward Khalid Boutaib scored their first goal in the tournament on the 14th minute to stun Spain. The Spaniards responded through Isco a few minutes later, and it was all-square when the teams went in for a break. The VAR evidently determined the fate of the teams in Group B, and it is quite surprising that some incidents went unpunished like Gerard Pique’s double-foot challenge. Nonetheless, Morocco again found the lead for the second time in the match through substitute En Nesyri on the 81st minute. An African team was on the verge of breaking the Spaniard’s 22-game unbeaten run. Fellow substitute Iago Aspas also scored on the other end to make sure that Spain shares the spoils with أسود الأطلس‎ in their last match of the tournament. It was a proud moment when the referee ended the match as Morocco proved to the world that they could play against the top 2 teams in Europe and give them a run for their money.

Lessons Learned

1. Morocco’s style of play causes problems for any team they face.

2. There is room for improvement in terms of finishing.

3. VAR is not always fair.

4. Achraf Hakimi is one for the future.

5. Coach Herve Renard’s tactics were spot on.

Evaluation

Morocco was fairly good in the tournament. They had a lot of players who play in the most competitive leagues in the world, and it was beautiful to watch them in sync as they played a possession football that even Arsene Wenger would be proud of. The players played out of passion and love for the game and nothing else. If Morocco were named in any other group, they probably would have made it to the next round because Group B had brutal fixtures.

Critical Issue

They need to find sharp-shooters who are ruthless in front of goal and take the 2019 African Cup of Nations by storm.

FT World Cup 2018: Egypt's Tournament in Review

Disappointing Egypt fail to create any momentum at the World Cup

Things just didn’t work out for the Egyptians in this World Cup. It is said, “to whom much is given, much is expected”. The Pharaohs simply failed to deliver on football’s biggest stage. Kicking off their World Cup campaign without their talisman player Mohamed Salah, the North African giants never looked threatening in any of their three Group A games. They went down 1-0 to Uruguay in their opening match. The story continued in their second game where they lost 3-1 to Russia, and even the return of Salah in this game couldn’t rally the team to victory. They capped off their disappointing World Cup with a shock 2-1 loss to Saudi Arabia, effectively leaving the tournament with another disappointing display. 

Egypt vs Uruguay

The first game was quite an uphill task for the Egyptians in all honesty. With the news that Mohamed Salah would not start the match due to his shoulder injury he received from the UEFA Champions League final with Liverpool, it was quite hard to imagine them grinding out a positive result in this match. The outcome of the game proved as much as they succumbed to a late Luis Suarez goal which resulted in a 1-0 victory for Uruguay. The loss was all but shocking considering that Egypt never really looked like they would break down a well oiled Uruguay defense marshaled by Diego Godin.

Egypt vs Russia

This was a game that was highly anticipated by most Egyptian fans as it marked the return of Mohammed Salah after recovering from his shoulder injury. Ahmed Fathi’s bizarre own goal seemed to have paved way for more goals as Russia became rampant thereafter, adding two goals in quick succession, courtesy of Denis Cheryshev and Artem Dzyuba to kill the game off. Though Salah did pull a goal back for the Egyptians 20 minutes from time with a coolly struck penalty, the damage was already done and Egypt found it hard to break down a resolute Russian defense in search for a comeback. An early exit for Egypt was confirmed at the end of this game after two losses on the trot.

Egypt vs Saudi Arabia

Many expected Egypt to salvage some pride here by beating Saudi Arabia, but that was not to be. Salah put the Pharaohs ahead with a nice lob over the Saudi Arabian keeper, but Salman Al Faraj sent Essam El-Haddary the wrong way to level matters after Saudi Arabia was awarded a penalty. The Saudis then put the last nail in the coffin for Egypt right at the stroke of full-time courtesy of Salem Al Dawsari's close-range finish, defeating the Egyptians 2-1. This marked the end of The Pharaohs’ short World Cup spell which was thoroughly disappointing, to say the least.

Lessons Learned

• Defense is the best form of attack, Egypt was poor defensively hence they also failed to provide a threat going forward.

• Not relying on one man to drive the team.

• Play for the jersey and show hunger.

Evaluation

Heavy reliance on one man can be a recipe for disaster. Egypt simply did not offer much going forward especially during Salah’s absence. It is safe to say the North African giants never got the ball rolling.

Critical Issue

They need to ramp up their defense which proved to be the weakest link of the team. With the departure of El Hadary, the team also needs more leaders to step up and motivate the players all around the pitch.

FT World Cup 2018: Senegal were so close but yet so far

Africa are out of the 2018 FIFA World Cup tournament. Shocking right? Many experts and coaches from all over the world predicted that African teams would do better in the competition this time around, but they were left disappointed. Arsene Wenger and Jose Mourinho are just two of the many experts that shared in this pre-tournament belief. But how exactly did Senegal let the chance slip through their fingers in the final match? Here’s how.

In the first two matches, we did not see the captain of the team, Cheikhou Kouyate in the starting XI as well as the boy wonder, Keita Balde Diao on one of the flanks. Coach Aliou Cisse decided to change things up and accommodate the two players in a compact 4-4-2 formation against Colombia on June 28. Mane, who was playing up front with Niang, got an opportunity to score but lost the ball in the penalty box to Yerry Mina. VAR was used, and it adjudged that Mina committed a legal tackle. The Senegalese team were dangerous on the break but failed to score. A second-best Colombia team was unfortunate to lose James Rodriguez to injury, and they replaced him with an attacker, Muriel. Yerry MIna later proved again decisive as he stunned Senegal when he rose above the defenders to head in the game-winning goal on the 74th minute. Senegal now needed a goal to secure their place in the Round of 16 with Japan losing 1-0 to Poland. They fought, but could not score past Ospina. The match ended 1-0 and Senegal were level on points with Japan. They scored the same number of goals and conceded the same in the group stage. The two teams could not be separated by the head-to-head fixture either as it ended in a draw. For the first time in the tournament, a team was eliminated based on the number of yellow cards they picked up in the tournament. Senegal finished 3rd in the group, and it must be heartbreaking to bow out like that.

This means that the journey for the 5 African teams has ended in the group stage. Better luck next time, Africa.

FT World Cup 2018: Senegal held to a 2-2 draw by Japan

Three African teams have already been knocked out of the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia namely; Tunisia, Morocco, and Egypt. Senegal was the first team from the continent to pick up three points in the tournament so far before Nigeria learned from their mistakes and got back in the conversation as they beat Iceland.

On Sunday, 24th of June, Senegal were looking to repeating this feat as they matched up with fellow Group H member Japan. Les Lions de la Téranga coach, Aliou Cisse played around with his starting XI by switching the formation from 4-4-2 in the previous match to a 4-3-3 and accommodated Ndiaye in midfield. They started off well. It was in the 11th minute that Sadio Mane was accredited for scoring a goal for Senegal after Kawashima parried Youssouf Sabaly's shot into the feet of the Liverpool forward before the ball bounced off his shin and rolled into the net. Senegal continued to dominate in a first half that was typified by long balls and physical battles in the middle of the park. Japan came back into the match on the 34th minute through Inui’s curler that beat Khadim Ndiaye to level the matters.

Moussa Wague gave Senegal the lead for the second time in the match as he turned in Sabaly’s cross from a tight angle on the 71st minute. The Japanese coach made a bold decision of removing Shinji Kagawa and replaced him with Keisuke Honda before also throwing Shinji Okazaki into the match to rescue a point. The pair caused havoc in the opposition box, and it was written in the stars that they would leave a mark on the match. The Senegalese goalkeeper miscalculated a Japanese cross into the box and completely missed it which gifted Honda the opportunity to slot home just 7 minutes after Wague’s goal. The game ended in a 2-2 draw.

In all fairness, both teams created opportunities to score and showed the desire to stay in the competition, desire that has been lacking in the other African teams that have already been eliminated at this stage. The only question remaining is the omission of a young player on the rise. Up until now, we have not seen Keita Balde in this tournament. The young winger is highly rated and widely regarded to be the next big thing but is still yet to kick a ball in this tournament. Could it be that they have been reserving for the most challenging match (against Colombia) which will be the decider?

Croatia Teaches Senegal a Lesson in Final World Cup Friendly

After losing to Brazil in their previous game, Croatia redeemed herself by beating Senegal 2-1 in a friendly game that took place on the 8th of June.

I really understand the need for friendly matches. I know that they are the best way to prepare teams before a major tournament like the World Cup. My concern is what are the implications of a friendly game on the losing team? For a team like Senegal that has qualified for the World Cup, the taste of loss has not been very present in its mouth, hence, losing in a friendly match just before the main tournament can be a shock. It might make a team question its potential. Most importantly, it might discourage the fans that have enjoyed the pleasure of screaming after every game.  At the end of the day, a friendly match can be the reason why a team takes a dented team spirit and suffocating confidence to the main game.

However, soccer is not just about kicking the ball, but it is a character engineering mechanism. It teaches some good character traits such as resilience. It is such friendly matches that remind us that, as Africans, we believe that nothing beats a growth mindset and we African fans are rallying behind Senegal in the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia. Senegal are grateful to Croatia for helping us identify our mistakes. Sadio Mane and his squad will work on them and we will be ready for the tournament!

FT In Our Corner: The World's Game

My interest in soccer is not really in the individual skills of a player. From what I have seen, all soccer players are skilled because running and kicking at the same time is not an easy task. It requires someone with a great head-to-leg coordination to master the art of playing the sport. My greatest interest has always been how it has evolved beyond being a game to a unifying mechanism. One of the greatest stories that I came across was a story of a BBC Outlook Inspiration nominee, Fatuma Abdulkadir Adan who has used soccer to fight tribal tensions in the area that she grew up in. When in the game, people look beyond their origins and look at the collaborative nature of the game.
 

In multi-tribal countries like Nigeria, one of the great times when the country would stand united is when they stand behind its national team as Nigerians. At that point, the victory of the team is glory to everyone, and not to certain tribal fragments. On a much grander scale, the whole world is anticipating the 2018 World Cup more than ever. If you ask a 5th grader about where the last UN Summit was, they will most probably scratch their head, but if you ask them about where the World Cup is, they will not forget that the whole world will be united in Russia in a few days. Again, soccer is uniting us.
 

FT World Cup Focus: Does Nigeria have three reasons to ‘Kelechi’ (Thank God)?

In Nigeria, particularly in the Igbo tribe, Kelechi happens to be a very common name given to children coming into this world. Loosely translated, the name means “thank God” or “glorify God” that speaks to a people expressing gratitude to a Higher power for the blessing in form of the child born to them. In the football media, we have been recently exposed to three Kelechis. Do they perhaps resemble the three positives that the green and white army can be cognizant of heading into the 2018 FIFA World Cup finals in Russia next month? Let us find out

Kelechi Iheanacho

The Leicester striker joined the foxes in the summer of 2017 from Manchester City in a £25 million which made him the third most expensive African player at the time, after Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah’s transfers to Liverpool. He had become famous for scoring goals from the bench at City, becoming the most prolific Premier League scorer in history at 1 goal every 96 minutes, a ratio higher than the likes of Thierry Henry and Sergio Aguero.

Things did not, however, go as planned at Leicester in the 2017/18 campaign as he continued to fall out of favor with coach Claude Puel for the better part of the season. Iheanacho got a nod from the coach in the closing stages for the season and did put in some applaudable performances, including a fine strike in Leicester’s win over Arsenal. For the entire campaign, he made only seven EPL starts but scored 3 goals and registered 3 assists, not bad at all for a striker. In my humble opinion, the 21-year-old is not too far away from being a seasoned goal poacher who would not become as great as Okocha but will certainly provide goals for his country and club when they need them the most. He is poised to make it to Gernot Rohr’s final 23-man squad and I strongly believe that he can deliver the goods for the Super Eagles if given the chance.

Kelechi Nwakali

He is the kid who has recently made the headlines after a man of the match display in Nigeria’s 3-2 loss to Atletico Madrid as part of the GOtv Max cup clash. Nwakali steered the Super Eagles in front on the 31st-minute mark by curling a beautiful shot into the net, beyond the reach of Jan Oblak. The 19-year-old has actually been crafting such crazy performances for quite some time now especially at the Dutch side MVV Maastricht where he is on loan from North Londoners, Arsenal. Prior to joining the Premier League club, Nwakali captained the Under-17 Super Eagles side to a 2015 FIFA World Cup title, winning the Golden Ball Award in the process. He is still yet to make an Arsenal debut and could soon join his compatriot, Alex Iwobi in the Gunners first team.

Even though he was not selected to be part of Rohr’s provisional 30-man squad for the World Cup finals in Russia next month, Nwakali represents a tantalizing prospect of youth who could continue building on Nigeria’s momentum and restore the nation’s position as a footballing powerhouse after the June finals.

Dr. Kelechi Anyikude

Popularly known as Kelechi, the Arsenal fan has become known for fanatically backing the Gunners. The Ph.D. holder currently resides in the United Kingdom and considers himself an Unofficial Nigerian Ambassador, Environmentalist, and SDG Advocate. He is a regular on the Arsenal FanTV YouTube channel and a symbol of the funny, opinionated and widely outspoken fan who is not shy to express his feelings. He sings and dances a lot on the channel using his native Igbo language and also shouts when times are rough.

Kelechi will be fully backing the Super Eagles team in Russia and his energy represents the population of Nigeria fans who are known for assuming the role of the 12th player with purpose and pride. Pre-orders for the Nigerian Nike kit has reached over a record 3 million and you are guaranteed that in Russia and elsewhere around the world, the Super Eagles fans will be behind their heroes. Could the off the pitch hype aid Nigeria’s 2018 FIFA World Cup campaign success?

Women’s African Cup of Nations 2018 is around the corner

The FIFA World Cup Russia 2018 is making the headlines as expected for it is the biggest sporting event in the world. The African Cup of Nations comes in a close second for African countries and it is equivalent to the UEFA Euro in Europe and Copa America in South America. This tournament presents an opportunity for countries from the motherland to battle out for the title of being called the Kings of Africa.

The women national teams of Africa have their own AFCON tournament which FirstTouch will be covering between November 17 and December 1. Ghana are the hosts for this main event and have the automatic qualification to the tournament. 7 spots are up for grabs and many teams have been fighting it out to make it to the tournament finals in the qualifiers which started in April and will end in June. The top three teams from this year’s Total Women’s African Cup of Nations will qualify for the FIFA Women’s World Cup which will be hosted by France in 2019. It would be interesting to see who will earn a place for such a tournament after the likes of Zimbabwe surprised many when they qualified for the Olympic Games in 2016.

FT African Legends Series: Austin Jay Jay Okocha [Nigeria]

As we continue with the FirstTouch African Legends series, we drift to the western part of the continent and reminisce the career of whom I consider being one of the greatest dribblers that ever played professional football - Mr. Austin Azuka “Jay Jay” Okocha. I think it’s no coincidence that he and Zimbabwe’s Peter Ndlovu were born in the same year - they were perhaps born for the same purpose in their respective countries. In my mind, Peter Ndlovu, the first black African footballer in the English Premier League was a goal scoring machine while Okocha was a rabid entertainer.

The Beginning

Born in Enugu, Enugu State in Nigeria, Okocha started playing football on the streets with what he described in the following statement, “As far as I can remember, we used to play with anything, with any round thing we could find, and whenever we managed to get hold of a ball, that was a bonus! I mean it was amazing!" I mean, if the guy could control let’s say a mango with his feet, how about a proper soccer ball with a 68-70 cm circumference and a 22cm (8.56 inches) diameter. Perhaps that’s why he was ever so comfortable with the ball. He got the first touch of professional football in 1990 when he joined Enugu Rangers at just 17 years of age. He immediately made a big impression with his slick movements and became guilty of handing some experienced players a run for their money and a taste of the dust, once in a while.

Club career in Europe

Okocha’s big break came later that year when he visited West Germany on holiday after the 1990 FIFA World Cup. He stopped by a third division side, Borussia Neunkirchen’s training ground with a friend and asked to join in, only to find himself getting pinned to a contract after mesmerizing the coach with his arm-like legs that caressed the ball effortlessly. In the following year, he would join FC Saarbrucken before completing a move to the top flight Bundesliga side, Eintracht Frankfurt where he linked up with the Ghanaian striker, Tony Yeboah. He appeared 90 times for Frankfurt and scored 16 goals, including the 1993 goal which attracted the Goal of the season recognition by numerous magazines after he had rounded some players in the box twice and slotted the ball past the infamous German international goalkeeper, Oliver Kahn. Jay-Jay then moved to Turkey after Eintracht Frankfurt got relegated, he had a feud with the manager Jupp Heynckes before relegation. Whilst in Turkey, Okocha attained citizenship status as “Muhammet Yavuz” and scored 30 goals in only 62 appearances with a number of them being direct free kicks.

In 1998, French Ligue 1 side, Paris St-Germain broke the bank and paid £14 million for Okocha who became the most expensive African player at the time, in a four-year deal. Other than his continued displays on the pitch, Okocha also mentored the Brazilian football icon, Ronaldinho - who in my opinion rivals him when it comes to dribbling. After the 2002 FIFA World Cup, he joined English Premier League side, Bolton Wanderers whom he helped survive relegation and also steered them to their first cup final in nine years as Captain, where they finished runners-up to the 2004 Football League Cup. He did score some memorable goals and became a crowd favorite. Bolton fans would wear t-shirts with the inscription, "Jay-Jay – so good they named him twice." He was stripped of the Bolton Captaincy in 2006 after speculation of him moving to Qatar intensified. Jay-Jay eventually left Bolton that year for Qatar, where he played one season before returning to England in Hull City colors on a free transfer. He hung his boots after a short spell with the Tigers where he scored no goals in eighteen matches as a result of fitness and injury challenges. He still was a part of the Hull troops that won the first Premier League promotion in their 104-year history.

The Super Eagles Years

Okocha won Nigerian hearts in only his second cap for the country. After losing 2-1 to Ivory Coast on his debut in a 1994 FIFA World Cup qualifier, Jay-Jay came on strong against Algeria where the Super Eagles came from one goal down to secure a 4-1 victory in a must-win match that secured their first ever FIFA World Cup qualification. The match was pretty much an Okocha-show. He also won the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations and the Olympic Gold Medal at USA 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta, as part of the Nigerian team dubbed Dream Team.

The step-over king’s antics on the pitch cannot be rightfully described in words. He even indirectly led to the sacking of Zimbabwe’s famous football commentator, Charles Mabika after he got his dribbling displays stuck on replay underscored by unapologetic juicy commentary with the words, “Just look at Okocha,” - on national television when the Super Eagles visited Harare for a friendly.

In April 2015, Okocha expressed interest in becoming the president of Nigerian Football Federation, a dream he happens to be chasing as we speak. Feeling nostalgic? Check his displays in the video below, where at 43-years of age, he turned a Joseph Yobo testimonial match to a Jay-Jay Okocha Exhibition in May 2016.

Do you think his cousin, Arsenal’s Alex Iwobi could follow the footsteps of the veteran?

Juventus wins Coppa Italia 2018

In an old Italian rival clash between Juventus and AC Milan in the Coppa Italia final, three African players made it to the starting XI. Ghanaian midfielder Kwadwo Asamoah was deployed in the left back position for Juventus next to Morrocan defender Mehdi Benatia, while Ivory Coast international, Franck Kessié was at the heart of the midfield for Gattuso’s AC Milan. Asamoah and Kessié were looking to shine in a cup final because that’s all they had to fight for since their national teams failed to qualify to this year’s FIFA World Cup Russia 2018. As it was a final, there could only be one winner at the end of the match and Massimiliano Allegri’s Juventus pulled through with a convincing 4-0 win.

The result, however, could not have been predicted after having watched the first period of the match. The Bianconeri were on par with AC Milan as both teams failed to score a single goal even though they both created a few decent chances. The second half saw a mean-looking Juventus side that has been dominating Italy in the past decade. First, it was Miralem Pjanic’s corner that found its way to an unmarked Mehdi Benatia who headed past Gianluigi Donnarumma on the 56th minute. The goalkeeper could not keep out Douglas Costa’s shot from going in just 6 minutes later as his effort bounced off the keeper’s chest before finding its way into the net. Morrocan international Benatia was at hand again to score Juventus’ 3rd goal after Donnarumma dropped it in the box. Pjanic once again delivered a cross that was flicked in by Kalinic to confirm Juventus’ 4-0 against AC Milan in the cup final. Congrats to the Bianconeri!