English Premier League: Who will challenge for European football?

Bernardo Silva of Manchester City celebrates with teammates after scoring his team's third goal during the Group F match of the UEFA Champions League between FC Shakhtar Donetsk and Manchester City at Metalist Stadium on October 23, 2018 in Kharkov, Ukraine.

(Oct. 22, 2018 - Source: Mike Hewitt/Getty Images Europe)

This week saw the 2019/20 EPL season kick off and needless to say the race for the title has begun. The league table has already started tallying points and we can finally start talking league standings, silverware and of course, European football. Last season England set its mark on Europe last with exceptional class acts that gave us two all English European finals and the Super Cup match up. The top teams will once again take their ambitions to Europe where English teams have once again become a force to be reckoned with. Promising summer windows for some of the clubs including Arsenal, Everton and a nonexistent one for Chelsea after a ban from the transfer window and also looking at the pre-season form of the teams, we’ve had a peak at their fortunes this upcoming season and picked teams that have a chance of winning some European football next season. 

POSSIBLE 2019/2020 TOP FOUR

Tottenham Hotspur

Last season finish: 4th

The combination of having more elite players and managers has propelled the once more average teams into big powerhouses. Tottenham represents this metamorphosis better than any other; the emergence of the club as a top flight club in Europe has been due to over the years have put in some quality efforts and consistency from the North Londoners. Mauricio Pochettino’s men look set to bag another top four finish, a fact that seemed inconceivable only a few seasons ago. In fact, Arsenal fans made St. Tottenham’s Day, in celebration of something that seemed so routine for years; finishing above Spurs in the league. Undoubtedly, Spurs have handed Arsenal fans a bitter pill to swallow while simultaneously gaining prominence in Europe not only for their exploits in England but for a brilliant UEFA Champions League campaign and a first final in that competition. The season brings new challenges of whether they can hold on to talents like Christian Eriksen who is on the radar of big European clubs like Real Madrid. Champions League also on the agenda this season, Spurs will come out blazing in hopes to finally secure the league title. 

“Last season, the newcomers did more than just turn a few heads, knocking a few egos along the way as well and managing an absolutely hard-earned seventh-place finish. Nuno Espirito Santo’s men will once more hope to ruffle the feathers at the top this season and qualify for Europe ”

— Margaret Mandeya, FirstTouch

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang of Arsenal celebrates with his tem mate Mesut Ozil after scoring his team's first goalduring the Joan Gamper trophy friendly match between FC Barcelona and Arsenal at Nou Camp on August 04, 2019 in Barcelona, Spain.

(Aug. 3, 2019 - Source: Getty Images Europe)

Liverpool

Last season finish: 2nd

Last year’s UEFA Champions League winners Liverpool are the most successful English team in the European competitions. Yet at the moment, it almost seems as if Liverpool can have the most outstanding seasons with unbeaten runs and the most excellent formations and squads and still lose out in the dying moments. The second place curse, as it’s dubbed, is the cause of many frustrations for the YNWA faithful. However, Jurgen Klopp has in times past proven his managerial competence and last year’s UEFA Champions League win is enough evidence that Liverpool have what it takes to take the title this year. Breaking from this pattern of disappointing finishes in the league will be the main goal for Klopp. Liverpool are formidable against any side in the Premier League and with the club’s biggest assets still on the roster, they are undoubtedly close favorites to the title together with City.

 Manchester City

Last season finish: 1st

Manchester City go into the season with the possibility of winning a third EPL title in three years straight. City are the most compact, have the strongest and solid attack; that is hardly frazzled champions of the English Premier League. City have been a winning formula and that still largely remains undisrupted. Jose Mourinho commented that he believed Manchester City’s B-team could quite easily challenge for the title. For starters, English international who can as well start on the bench, Raheem Sterling started the season with a hat trick against West Ham and more performances of that level from the forward can as well hand the Citizens yet another title.

Chelsea

Last season finish: 3rd

Richarlison of Everton celebrates with teammates after scoring his team's first goal during the Premier League match between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Everton FC at Molineux on August 11, 2018 in Wolverhampton, United Kingdom.

(Aug. 10, 2018 - Source: Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images Europe)

Frank Lampard’s Chelsea have received a blow to the start of their Premier League campaign. The 4-0 loss to Manchester United at Old Trafford is as an undesirable outcome. Frank Lampard his youthful side do not have the experience warranted to deliver Chelsea their title hopes. Despite this, Chelsea is definitely one of the teams that have the biggest potential, ironically because of the fresh talent in the squad. Lampard has a big task with Chelsea and together with his youthful side, all have something to prove. The rebuild for Lampard will take some time and as such we should not expect much from them. Chelsea will need to work on giving the young players the confidence they need to play at the level of the EPL. They might end in the top four if there the experience of other long standing players on the squad comes to the party.

 Arsenal and Manchester United

Last season finish: 5th and 6th  

Arsenal and Manchester United’s Red Devils are likely to be beating down at each other’s doors again this season gunning for a top four finish against their much solid counterparts. Unai Emery and Arsenal lost to Chelsea in the final of the 2018/19 Europa league, showing that they do have the world class players they need to inject the much needed attacking potent but a shambolic defence.  Arsenal may now have a real chance with Nicolas Pepe, the club’s record signing coupled with Aubameyang’s goal scoring prowess and David Luiz’s defensive experience. After going on a signature spending spree that saw United signing Harry Maguire, Daniel James and Aaron Wan-Bissaka for £146million, the main goal would be to finish in the top four. After managing to revive United’s fortunes last season, all eyes will be on Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to see if he can take United into a future where they once again dominate the EPL.

PONTENTIAL FROM OUTSIDE THE TOP SIX

Diogo Jota of Wolverhampton Wanderers celebrates with teammates after scoring his team's second goal during the Premier League match between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Chelsea FC at Molineux on December 5, 2018 in Wolverhampton, United Kingdom.

(Dec. 4, 2018 - Source: Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images Europe)

Everton

Last season finish: 8th   

Football in Europe is the crowning of any English club into the club of champions which has been exclusive to the top six. A team that unsurprisingly could shake up the top four this season are Everton. Shaking things up is Everton, who have set themselves up for a strong chase with their summer signings. Marco Silva’s new personnel are likely going to play significant role in the club’s European football ambitions. One of them is Moise Kean, the nineteen-year-old striker from Juventus, who is one of the most promising young talents in Europe at the moment. Kean’s signing from Juventus has been seen as the remedy for Everton’s attack which has not been the same post Lukaku’s exit to Old Trafford in 2017. Nigerian midfielder, Alex Iwobi joins former Arsenal teammate Theo Walcott at Everton. Iwobi’s £28 million move to the Blues has come at a time for him to prove his impact in the big game and will be eager to prove his worth. Andres Gomes from Barcelona also joins the Blues to round off a brilliant transfer window for Everton. The Blues are likely to shake be knocking on the top six’s door if they perform to the standard.

Jamie Vardy of Leicester City (l) celebrates after scoring the first goal during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Leicester City at St. James Park on September 29, 2018 in Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom.

(Sept. 28, 2018 - Source: Stu Forster/Getty Images Europe)

Wolverhampton Wanderers

Last season finish: 7th  

Merciless and on the chase for a spot in European football next year. Wolves will be looking to bash it out with the top six. Last season, the newcomers did more than just turn a few heads, knocking a few egos along the way as well and managing an absolutely hard earned seventh place finish. Nuno Esperinto Santo’s men will once more hope to ruffle the feathers at the top this season and qualify for Europe once more after nudging their way into the Europa League this season courtesy of Manchester City’s double qualification as league winners and FA Cup victors. Wolves have had a busy summer, releasing and signing new players including club record signing Raul Jimenez from Benfica who will stay on permanently after a succesful loan spell last season and Patrick Cutrone from AC Millan.

Leicester City

Last season finish: 9th  

Leicester City manager, Brendan Rodgers maybe the right man to take the Foxes into a top six finish. The manager has been focused on creating a top flight team for Leicester City once again. The transfer window was a chance for the former Celtic manager to rebuild the squad after departures by key players such as Riyad Mahrez. This summer, Harry Maguire’s move to Manchester United for £80 million exposed Foxes to another loss of a key player. However, signings of Belgian midfielder Youri Tielemans who spent last season a loan from AC Monaco and striker Ayoze Perez from Newcastle could cover some of the gaps. Leicester City talisman and top goal scorer Jamie Vardy will provide the experience while the addition of young energy into the squad will allow for a dynamic squad that could potentially qualify for the Europa League next season.

West Ham

Last season finish: 10th  

Declan Rice of West Ham United celebrates scoring the winning goal with team mates during the Premier League match between West Ham United and Arsenal FC at London Stadium on January 12, 2019 in London, United Kingdom.

(Jan. 11, 2019 - Source: Marc Atkins/Getty Images Europe)

West Ham who also managed to finish in the top half of the table last year. The question is how will they fair against the big teams this season. After a disappointing start to the season, losing to Manchester City 5-0, the Hammers will look to rebuild their confidence with wins against smaller teams lined up. West Ham had moments where they looked like a top 10 team last season, beating out Manchester United and Arsenal. The Londoners have however suffered a blow to their attack after losing Arnautovic to the pull of the Chinese Super League. Manuel Pellegrini’s task this season is undoubtedly to fish out the quality performances from the team in the face of the bigger teams in the league. The former Manchester City manager has to make crucial improvements in the back which will serve Hammers well in their campaign. West Ham could edge up wards in the league, only if luck would have it.

The Premier League is set to be a magnificent one. With 380 matches this season, with the bulk of them still to be played, there’s a long way to go before we crown the league champions. If past Premier League seasons are anything to go by, it’s a road packed with dramatic goals, unexpected injuries that get in the way.

Comment with the team you think will take the title this year?

Can Dortmund challenge Bayern?

CUTTING TO THE CHASE

Dortmund are actually favorites to win the 2019/20 Bundesliga title.

Seven Bundesliga titles on the spin, Bayern are an embodiment of dominance and breath invincibility don’t they? Well, not quite. At least not in the upcoming 2019/20 campaign where they could be second favorites to win the title. Dortmund lurked behind them last season, all the way to the final day and this time facts and figures do suggest that they might just walk away with their first Bundesliga championship since 2012.

Robert Lewandowski of Bayern Muenchen celebrates scoring his teams second goal of the game during the UEFA Champions League Group E match between Ajax and FC Bayern Munich at Johan Cruyff Arena on December 12, 2018 in Amsterdam, Netherlands.

(Dec. 11, 2018 - Source: Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images Europe)

THE 2018/19 BUNDESLIGA SEASON RELOADED

If you happen to not have paid proper attention last season, we got your back. A simple refresher course on the 56th Bundesliga season says that Borussia Dortmund were on top of the league from September 2018 up until March 2019! They indeed bottled it in the end, but there is a lot from their campaign that signposted probable future successes. The Black and Yellows matched the record Bundesliga champions stat to stat, bettering them on more occasions than one. The two German giants finished the season with a total of 10 clean sheets each and just 2 points separating them. This was not a Juve and Napoli title race which in many forms suggested that the Old Lady was the good old African folklore’s hare racing with tortoises. It was like the Manchester City and Liverpool beef, that’s just how close it was. The Bavarians did score more goals and conceded just 32 goals compared to Dortmund’s 44 which explains their title triumph, but were however pretty much second best in everything else.

Unsurprisingly the top six match attendances in the entire league were recorded at Borussia Dortmund’s Signal Iduna Park, the Yellow Wall and their ear busting decibels choir are indeed a bit more than just fanatics. Even more, Die Borussen boasted of the most entertaining individual ballers in German, with 4 of the 8 season’s players of the month going to their players and 2 Rookie of the month accolades collected by the high flying Moroccan full back, Achraf Hakimi. None of the champions’ youngsters won the rookies’ award and only Leon Goretzka captured the player of the month of the award. Of course the top goal scorer was Bayern’s Robert Lewandowski, undoubtedly the best in the league, but the second and third top marksmen were Dortmund’s Paco Alcacer and captain Marco Reus. What else, the top assist provider was also the teenager, Jadon Sancho.

We could really take the entire day doing this but my point is perhaps a bit clear now. Dortmund were literally breathing down the Reds’ necks. It’s also true that Bayern topped the most important stat, the points tally, but what we get from Dortmund’s performance last time out was the message of intent. They are open for business. But is that everything?

Borussia Dortmund players celebrate victory at full-time after the Group A match of the UEFA Champions League between Club Brugge and Borussia Dortmund at Jan Breydel Stadium on September 18, 2018 in Brugge, Belgium.

(Sept. 17, 2018 - Source: Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images Europe)

 WHO WANTS IT MORE?

Stats aside and leaving records in their stacks, them who emphatically answer this question eventually emerge as champions, in any part of the world. That’s a question which us writers can have fun circling on but properly answered on the field of play. I could argue that Dortmund being in the transition phase last year under then new head coach Lucien Favre hardly ever saw themselves being that close to Niko Kovac’s men, who had finished 29 points above them in the 2017/18 season. They overachieved. Their plan to adapt to the new manager’s philosophy, play well and secure champions league football might have changed the moment they realised Bayern were just really bad in the opening stages. Losing 3 of their opening 12 matches.

Still thinking along those lines, Dortmund could have tried to run away with it, constantly looking over their shoulders whereas the champions desperately summed up their winning juices to save their blushes and pulled off a miraculous comeback, losing only once from match-day 13 up to the very end. In other words, I could say Bayern wanted it more last season, but out of contempt and hurt from being so near and yet so far, it could be the other way this time around.

But that’s just my thought pattern. What do the facts say? Who has done the business in the transfer window to lay down a solid title claim?

“This was not a Juve and Napoli title race which in many forms suggested that the Old Lady was the good old African folklore’s hare racing with tortoises. It was like the Manchester City and Liverpool beef, that’s just how close it was.”

— Dennis Takaendesa, FirstTouch

HAVE THEY DONE ENOUGH IN THE TRANSFER WINDOW?

Lucas Hernandez. of Atletico Madrid smiles during a training session ahead of the UEFA Super Cup match against Real Madrid CF at Lillekuela Stadium on August 14, 2018 in Tallinn, Estonia.

(Aug. 13, 2018 - Source: Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images Europe)

Bayern Munich

To be fair, in as much they are the champions and have been for the past 7 seasons, the Bavarians are still pretty much in their own rebuilding phase. Former Eintracht Frankfurt manager Niko Kovac has had only one season with a squad he didn’t sum up and still recovering from the departure of the infamous duo, Robben and Ribery who once terrorised European defences under the alias, Robbery. The Croat actually did so well to recover from a shocking start and then clinch the title in his debut season. It was clear they needed to at least address their aging defence and find suitable replacements for the French and Dutch legend if they were to continue their impressive title winning run.

Coutinho, Hernandez, Pavard and Perisic

The 29-time champions from Munich clearly prioritised getting two full-backs and a prolific left winger heading into the 2019 summer transfer window. They got their full-backs, some of the best there is in international football right now. Benjamin Pavard and Lucas Hernandez registered on Bayern’s radar all the way back to the summer of 2018 when France lifted the world cup gold in Russia. The pair were ever so reliable and crucial to Didier Deschamps’ world cup winning squad, in both tracking back and going on the offensive. In fact, the 23-year-old Pavard scored the 2018 FIFA World Cup Goal of the tournament, his first ever international goal for Les Bleus. Lucas Hernandez had cemented his place in the Atletico Madrid starting line-up, arguably the defensive masters of Europe who conceded. No wonder these two commanded hefty figures to be priced away from Stuttgart and the Spanish giants. Niko Kovac and Bayern Munich are however getting value for their money, they can now sleep easier knowing the knocking on David Alaba and Joshua Kimmich have more than enough covers.

Even more, these two signings give the champions additional tactical flexibility with both Hernandez and Pavard able to play as central defenders or by just deploying them as full-backs, giving room for both Kimmich and Alaba to also play in the midfield. They are indeed some real wildcards!

However, they didn’t have it all going their way in the window. Yes, they got the highly experienced Ivan Perisic from Inter but it’s no secret that that the 30-year-old winger wasn’t their first choice. Perhaps the best transfer move for Bayern in the 2019 summer window came in the form of a gift from FC Barcelona, but a gift motivated by desperation and lack of vision rather than generosity. FC Hollywood won’t care though, as Coutinho offers the sort of dynamism, flair, and experience that could help the club transition some of the creative responsibilities that recently retired legends Franck Ribery and Arjen Robben handled for Bayern over the previous decade. While Coutinho’s move to Munich may be temporary in the form of a loan-to-buy option from Barca, the kind of quality he brings with him is a rarity in all of the Bundesliga.

Leroy Sane of Manchester City celebrates scoring his sides first goal with Gabriel Jesus during the UEFA Champions League Group F match between Manchester City and TSG 1899 Hoffenheim at Etihad Stadium on December 12, 2018 in Manchester, United Kingdom.

(Dec. 11, 2018 - Source: Gareth Copley/Getty Images Europe)

Missed target: Leroy Sane

Former Arsenal boy Serge Gnabry did a pretty good job in trying to replace Arjen Robben on the left flank, scoring 10 goals and serving up 6 assists in the 2018/19 season. The same can’t be said of the other wing, highly talented French international Kingsley Coman, remains an unreliable option with his injury woes still to come to a close. In contrast, The 23 year-old managed only 7 goals and 4 assists, which is not good enough for a side whose style of playing hinges on the wingers’ ability to create goals and score some. That is why Manchester City winger, Leroy Sane perfectly suited the profile. Just like Ribery, he can hug the touchline, take-on players, run them down and deliver the end product. I mean, the numbers just speak for themselves.

Bayern’s predicted starting XI

The 23-year-old has managed a total of 32 goals and 36 assists during his 3 years at the English Champions. And his stock keep rising. Just this last campaign, Leroy managed an astounding 15 goals and 14 assists in only 27 appearances. He is young, he is efficient and German. Exactly just want the Bundesliga champions could ever dream of. He was reportedly interested in switching allegiances but the move fell out after he suffered a horrific ACL injury in City’s FA Community shield final against Liverpool in pre-season. They could still come back for him in the summer but they have to do without him at least for now. How may that really affect their title chances coming into the new season?

They got the Croat, Perisic who has Bundesliga experience with Dortmund and Wolfsburg but his numbers aren’t as good. He was excellent as he helped Croatia reach an unprecedented world cup final, but 9 goals and 4 assists in 40 appearances last season pales in comparison to Sane’s record. Let’s look at how Niko Kovac could set up his side in the 2019/20 campaign.

Bayern’s predicted starting XI

This is pretty much the formation and personnel that Kovac employed to turn over their misfortunes, except ofcourse the possible inclusion of Pavard, Hernandez and Perisic. Hernandez could be slotted right beside Nikolas Sule in central defence for the departed Mats Hummels, who rejoined you guessed who, Borussia Dortmund. It’s a great side but would have been perfect with Sane in it. It’s just unfortunate that success at this level seemingly requires perfection nowadays.

Their direct challengers are however looking interesting, maybe even close to perfection.

Borussia Dortmund

The Yellow and Black bottled the league last season. It was actually theirs to lose after sitting pretty on top of the standings from September 2018 all the way to March 2019. They could have been fairly satisfied though considering their circumstances. One of the main reasons why thy fell short was simply their defence. They kept as much clean sheets as Bayern but conceded 12 more goals. Their attack was quite frightening but as the old adage goes, “strikers win games but defenders win you championships.” They knew it, we all knew it and they have solved it.

Germany player Julian Brandt in action during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group F match between Germany and Sweden at Fisht Stadium on June 23, 2018 in Sochi, Russia.

(June 22, 2018 - Source: Stu Forster/Getty Images Europe)

Brandt, Hazard and Schulz

As if they really needed more attackers, they got them anyway. Proven Bundesliga aces and in abundance. The 22-year-old American, Cristian Pulisic departed for Chelsea but they look to have roped in a better option judging by their Bundesliga stats. Eden’s young brother, Thorgan Hazard scored 10 and registered 10 assists compared to Pulisic’s 4 goals and assists. You can sure bet that the former Borussia Moenchagladbach attacker will slot straight into the left wing position. They didn’t really need Julian Brandt, the 23-year-old who got a 2018 Germany world cup ticket ironically ahead of the bespoken Leroy Sane, but the kid scored 8 and served up 12 assists in all competitions. Why not get him if you can? His mobility will allow Favre to deploy him on either wings or pivot with Alex Witsel ahead of Thomas Delaney in midfield. He is their own wild card who pretty much guarantees that Dortmund now have the bulk of the league’s best attackers from the last campaign.

Other than polishing up their attack, Lucien Favre finally has the German international left-back, Nico Schulz to solve their most pressing problems from last campaign. All of Axel Zagadou, Acharf Hakimi and even midfielder Raphael Guerrero were tried on that left side but with no success. Most of their conceded goals could have no doubt come from that area. In the 26-year-old former Hoffenheim player, Dortmund now have German’s finest who has all the attributes of a modern fullback, taking on players just as good as he can take them out. Here’s a number for you, Schulz averaged an astonishing 4 crosses per game last season! In other words, problem expertly solved.

It gets even more interesting.

Main target acquired: Mats Hummels

Dortmund’s predicted starting XI

With their main centre-backs being 20 and 23-year old Zagadou and Manuel Akanji respectively in the last campaign, you can surely understand why they fell short defensively. They are highly talented individuals but you do need that something extra; experience, experience and experience. Defending is kind of like wine, the older they get, they better they become. At least until their legs fail them when ages catches up.

In Matts Hummels, Dortmund now have just that. The 30-year-old has won 6 Bundesliga titles and most remarkably the 2014 World Cup with Germany. Having their former captain back from their title rivals to show the younger players the way and add some more steel, is about as good an offer anyone can get. He will likely partner with Akanji in central defence. Without a doubt, Dortmund have solved all their ills from last season. If they were just 2 points behind Bayern without these additional proven attackers and Bayern’s own experienced defender; how far can they go this season?

Let’s just take a moment and look at how they could line-up.

Borussia Dortmund’s predicted starting XI

It’s still pretty much a tussle on the centre-forward position between Mario Gotze and Paco Alcacer but the former was more prolific last season, scoring 18 goals from just 11 appearances. Tell me without blinking that, this cannot be a title winning team.

OTHER EXCITING TEAMS TO WATCH

Well, realistically, it’s hard to see anyone else outside these two win the 2019/20 Bundesliga title but honourable mention goes to RB Leipzig. The youthful and fast rising side finished 3rd last season and more impressively had the highest number of clean sheets record, 6 ahead of Bayern and Dortmund. They could take points off some of the giants and will in no doubt feature in some of the most exciting matches.

Eintracht Frankfurt, Bayern Leverkuesen and Borussia Moenchengladbach will also be very much likely in the race for a top 4 finish.

MY VERDICT

My bias has been clear throughout the piece, I feel Dortmund have a better starting team and would be title favorites in that regard. Obviously, Bayern seem to have more depth when you look at their bench and that could be all that matters when you consider things like probable injuries.

One undisputable fact is that Bayern are no longer as invincible and that contest between them two, just makes the league a bit more interesting.

Who do you think will take it all? Tell us in the comments below.

How can PSG win the UCL and be taken seriously across Europe?

Deja vu for Paris

“Hopefully, the Parisian fans will be able to properly shout, ‘’Ici Ce Paris’’ again. Perhaps with some silver in their mouth, not silver spoons.

”

— Dennis Takaendesa, FirstTouch Africa

With almost no time of the 90 left, Diogo Dalot raced into the Parisians’ box, realised he didn’t have enough space nor opportunity to get a decent effort at goal and just resigned to do the most sensible thing. Hit it anyway in the direction of the opponent’s box, as far away from their goal as possible. As the shot made its way out of the pitch, over Buffon’s goal, it just happened to have brushed through Presnel Kimpembe’s unsuspecting arm. There was nothing obvious in it and if they had been appeals for a penalty, they would have been half-hearted. But as luck would have it for the hosts, the referee pointed to the spot with the aid of his VAR. Much to the delight of the travelling Manchester United faithful and a free-showing of yet another horror movie franchise for PSG.

Tuchel’s men had started the night, 2 precious away goals ahead of the Manchester club who needed at least 3 to have any hope of progressing into the quarter-finals of the 2018/19 UEFA Champions League competition. Even worse, United only had a bulk of second string players and youngsters to do the impossible job. It was like the walls of Jericho stuff, where only trumpets and hail Mary’s would be their greatest hope of achieving the intended result. And they got just that, the Paris miracle as it would later be named.

With ice in his veins, Marcus Rashford had stepped up and buried the ball beyond the reach of the vastly experienced Gigi Buffon who is almost twice his age. It became the third of two other fortuitous goals, which eventually saw the Red Devils through to the next round. For PSG, it was just a replay of that infamous night in Barcelona where they surrendered a 4-0 first leg lead to eventually lose 6-5 on aggregate and of course many other cases of being forced to watch their dreams evaporate before their eyes, as far as the champions league is concerned.

The lit flares gave up their glow, rhythmic drums held back their sound and the shirtless Paris fans were left looking for cover. The stadium had suddenly gotten cold. Neymar’s reaction in the stands said it all and yes, they had failed. Yet again from a winning position. It didn’t feel like Paris anymore, their famous mantra, Ici Ce Paris felt could have felt so misplaced.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic (C) of PSG speaks to team mates Thiago Silva and Marquinhos during the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 second leg match between Paris Saint-Germain FC and Bayer Leverkusen at Parc des Princes on March 12, 2014 in Paris, France.

(March 11, 2014 - Source: Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images Europe)

THEN

That was one night which pretty much sums up their fortunes in the past decade or so. Always dominant domestically with 6 titles in the past 6 seasons but always falling short when they come up against Europe’s finest. It’s their fortunes that have earned the French Ligue 1 the infamous nickname, “the farmers’ league.” Which basically means non-competitive. But why? How can a team be so good and so bad at the same time? What do they need to do to be taken more seriously across Europe?

Well, there’s no short answer, but let’s get it!

Less than the sum of their parts

Their starting eleven on the Paris miracle day pretty much sums up how fierce they have been over the years. With world cup winner Buffon in goal, Brazilian captain and one of the world’s best centre backs in Thiago Silva marshalling their defensive unit, the unplayable Marco Verrati pulling strings in the midfield and boy wonder Kylian Mbappe leading the line; it’s a solid unit who can take on anyone on their day. That is without even mentioning the likes of Di Maria, Julian Draxler or Neymar and Cavani who were out of the contest. Putting that team against, with all due respect, the young and upcoming Tahith Chong, a past-it Ashley Young, Lukaku, Chris Smalling and the rest; it was a pure mismatch. United had no right whatsoever to win that game, especially after being run over at the Old Trafford just two weeks earlier with an even better side.

That has just been Paris St Germain’s reality for some time now, always looking less than the sum of their parts dating back to the days of the likes of Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Javier Pastore. What are the reasons for PSG’s systematic failure in Europe you ask?

Neymar of Paris Saint-Germain looks dejected after conceding the first goal during the Group C match of the UEFA Champions League between Liverpool and Paris Saint-Germain at Anfield on September 18, 2018 in Liverpool, United Kingdom.

(Sept. 17, 2018 - Source: Michael Regan/Getty Images Europe)

The “Neymar” problem

Since the ownership of the loaded of Arab investors and leadership Nasser Al-Khelaifi, they must have thought to themselves; we want to win the champions league and become Europe’s best and the world’s most revered, how do we do it? Oh we have money, let’s just buy it. But that’s quite not how the strongest sides are built as history has taught us. Yes, you need a bit of stimulus and funds to get things going, but that’s just one part of building an aggressive, relentless and harmonic unit. Neymar’s switch to Paris from Barcelona for a world record fee of around €200m is a classic example and perhaps the tipping point that has loudly taught them and the rest of the world that you just can’t buy it.

Players like Neymar can get you windfalls of revenues in T-shirts, tickets and TV money, but without the proper infrastructure and fabric that makes a team tick, it will all be in vain. It cannot directly translate to resounding on the pitch successes. They tried it with English legend David Beckham, the outspoken Zlatan Ibrahimovic, and even Ronaldinho and many more but with little to show for it every single time. It’s not only the players; hiring coaches and sacking them with a mercenary-like approach has proven unsustainable. You remember Laurent Blanc, Unai Emery and Carlo Ancelotti?

All this and more robs a team of what makes it a team. Ongoing culture, identity and harmony. As they have learned, those stars and managers can win you games but without time, patience and a culture that condemns individual egos; they could never compete with the world’s best, let alone win the champions league. It all breeds apathy, apathy and even more apathy for the highest level of success.

Where do they go from here? Honestly, they seem to be on their way there. Experience is indeed the best teacher not this heartfelt written sermon of mine.

NOW

The next few lines perfectly illustrate what I think they should do and have started to do in order to really have a name amongst Europe’s best. You have to give it to them, they might have learnt their lessons.

Thomas Tuchel Manager of Paris Saint-German actions during training ahead of the International Champions Cup 2018 match between Arsenal v Paris Saint Germain on July 27, 2018 in Singapore.

(July 26, 2018 - Source: Thananuwat Srirasant/Getty Images AsiaPac)

Tuchel, a step in the right direction

Drawing from their history with managers who have failed to deliver at the UEFA Champions League level, it wouldn’t have been wayward to suspect the former Borussia Dortmund manager Thomas Tuchel would get the sack after the Manchester United fiasco. He actually got a new contract until June 2021!. Some reward for a club with history of little patience with managers. Amongst many other things, this was no doubt a step in the positive direction for PSG. Or at least a bit more refreshing to notice they are trying out new strategies. The 42-year-old German is still pretty much in the early stages of his career having really arrived on the big scene after the DFB Pokal success with Borussia Dortmund in 2017, his only major silverware upon joining the Parisians

You would guess that such a manager is very much still hungry for further successes and his tactical astuteness and talents to connect with players almost as peers but being firm at the same time, becomes a bonus to anyone looking to build a culture and lasting team identity. He is in many ways similar to the 2018/19 Champions League winner, Liverpool’s Jurgen Klopp but different in his own way. Unafraid to say his mind, can blend with the players and with a passion for the game that can be contagious. He seems right for them to say the least and tying him down to a longer contract might be a great move provided he gets even more time. Tuchel might not right away achieve the required level of success but will definitely help built a proper team. He is one for the future.

Moussa Diaby and team mate Timothy Weah of Paris Saint Germain celebrates his goal during the International Champions Cup match between Paris Saint Germain and Clu b de Atletico Madrid at the National Stadium on July 30, 2018 in Singapore.

(July 29, 2018 - Source: Thananuwat Srirasant/Getty Images AsiaPac)

A seemingly new transfer strategy?

PSG have been a bit different in the most recent transfer windows. If that has been the club’s overall new strategy or the Tuchel effect, we are yet to come to a conclusion. One thing is clear, they have not been the first to pounce on the highly rated stars since Neymar and Mbappe. They are seemingly more cognizant of strengthening their weaker areas with just the right personnel, regardless of their name or social following. The acquisition of Idrissa Gana Gueye from Everton in the summer is one such transfer. The Senegalese international has consistently been the Premier League’s best tackler in the past three seasons, has former experience in the Ligue 1 and will definitely add some more steel and personality to their midfield. A solid signing for anyone on any day. Gueye coupled with Leon Paredes’ switch from Zenit Petersburg in January, Pablo Sarabia, Abdou Diallo and Ander Herrera all punctuate that different strategy of going more for substance than just stardom, glitz and glammer.

Even more, Neymar is very much trying to force his way out of Paris and the club seems resigned to that fact. They are just concerned about recouping the money they spent and even the fans as well couldn’t be happier. In their opening 2019/20 Ligue 1 season encounter, a section of the Parisian fans held placards written “Neymar Out.” The wantaway Brazilian has been of good service but came up short in leading the side to some champions league glory. He has been divisive in the past few weeks and the fans have taken notice. Real Madrid’s reported attempt to land the 27-year-old by offering a lump cash sum, Gareth Bale and Modric was unsuccessful by reason of the French’s club disinterest in Bale. They are said to have preferred the teenager Vinicius Junior whom Los Blancos have not been prepared to let go. See, they are not just after big names anymore. They seem to have more purpose and direction.

There is something even more interesting in their apparent new transfer policy. 

Xavi Simmons and the new generation

(L-R) Paris Saint-Germain President Nasser Al Khelaifi poses alongside new signing Kylian Mbappe at the Parc des Princes on September 6, 2017 in Paris, France. Kylian Mbappe signed a five year contract for 180 Million Euro.

(Sept. 5, 2017 - Source: Aurelien Meunier/Getty Images Europe)

They are building for the future. Just a few weeks ago, PSG snapped up Barcelona’s highly rated youth player, the 16-year-old Dutch, Xavi Simmons. A solid prospect who is yet to make a full professional debut for any club but already in the public eye. They also acquired other youth players that include Mitchel Bakker from Ajax. Even at that start of Tuchel’s PSG managerial career, we noticed the young blood from their academy that include Moussa Diaby, Timothy Weah and Christopher Nkunku getting some first team football. Something which has been quite rare in recent times. Their reluctance to sell USMNT’s international, Timothy Weah but rather sending him on loan also reinforces this strategy.

It’s still unclear whether overachievers such as world cup winner, Kylian Mbappe would stay long term to realise the fruits of their visionary labors and approach to go under the radar, build from within but also periodically strengthen problem areas with substance as opposed to just stars. Especially given the fact that Mbappe has previously spoken about “new challenges.” However, if they be really on the path they seem to be on, they could very much be in a position to do without Mbappe if it comes to that, just as proper teams do. They evolve and quickly adapt.

PROBABLE FUTURE

Most of all this sound good and all but the real evidence of change, new found attitudes and prospects can only be extracted on the field of play. We will be keeping tabs with them as the new Ligue 1 season and champions league campaigns kick-off.

Hopefully, the Parisian fans will be able to properly shout, ‘’Ici Ce Paris’’ again. Perhaps with some silver in their mouth, not silver spoons.

Are Masandawana and Orlando Pirates a class above the rest?

Preseason is over, signings have been made, teams have been strengthened, and the time has come once again for teams to leave it all out on the field. In short, the ABSA Premiership is finally here! Africa’s most exciting league has returned to full force, and saw some exciting matches kicking off the new campaign. Being a new season, a lot of teams have reinforced their squads in a bid to become competitive in the new season. Unsurprisingly, a couple of teams have already been earmarked as prospective title challengers. These include defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns, closely followed by Orlando Pirates. In what is a similar story to that which unfolded in the English Premier League last season between Manchester City and Liverpool. Pirates will be looking to avenge last season’s misfortunes and salvage some silverware for the mighty Buccaneers faithful. Reigning champions Mamelodi Sundowns kicked off their 2019/20 campaign with a convincing victory over cross-town rivals SuperSport United. While Pirates are looking quite good, defending PSL champions Mamelodi Sundowns will again be the team to chase, while Bidvest Wits, Chiefs, SuperSport United and Cape Town City will be in the mix as well.

“Chiefs have been one of the active teams in the transfer market, look to have been squeezed out of the local market and so are banking on four untested foreigners to turn around their fortunes. But whether Lazarous Kambole (Zambia)‚ James Kotei (Ghana)‚ Samir Nurkovic (Serbia) or Kearyn Baccus (South African-born Australian) are the panacea to four trophyless seasons of bitter disappointment remains to be seen.”

— Siphosethu Thwala, FirstTouch Africa

Mamelodi Sundowns

Title favourites. They have easily become the “Manchester City” of Mzansi. They have it all, the money to buy any player they want, a seasoned coach in Pitso Mosimane, and boast of experience on the biggest football stages. Those reasons are enough to warrant Masandawana as title favourites even in the new season. Sundowns have the strongest team in the league in terms of depth. Further to this, the team have experienced players in the likes of Hlompho Kekana and Dennis Onyango who have experienced CAF Champions League glory and it is such attributes that sets the team apart from the rest. Do not be surprised come end of season if you should hear that they have won the league for the third consecutive time.

Fans during the Carling Black Label Champion Cup match between Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs at FNB Stadium on July 29, 2017 in Johannesburg, South Africa. At least two people have been reported to have been killed and several injured in a crush during the game at South Africa's biggest stadium.

(July 28, 2017 - Source: Gallo Images/Getty Images Europe)

Kaizer Chiefs

Chiefs are desperate to make up for a disappointing ninth place finish last term, add the fact that the club is celebrating their 50th anniversary. They have signed five players, but they released about ten, so they may lack the numbers and the depth needed to successfully challenge for the league. Worth noting is the absence of club captain Itumeleng Khune, whose presence and leadership has been sorely missed on the pitch as fans have witnessed a number of goalkeeping howlers during his time on the sidelines. Unsurprisingly, it seems a majority of the club’s fans are also not entirely convinced that coach Ernst Middendorp is the right man to lead the mighty Amakhosi. It therefore comes as no surprise that the club has been heavily linked with the possibility of acquiring the services of former coach Stuart Baxter who recently resigned from his Bafana Bafana job. Since Baxter left the team, it’s fair to say Amakhosi seemed to lose their playing style and since then, have struggled to adopt a new and clear way of playing.

In terms of strengthening the side, Chiefs have been one of the active teams in the transfer market, look to have been squeezed out of the local market and so are banking on four untested foreigners to turn around their fortunes. But whether Lazarous Kambole (Zambia)‚ James Kotei (Ghana)‚ Samir Nurkovic (Serbia) or Kearyn Baccus (South African-born Australian) are the panacea to four trophyless seasons of bitter disappointment remains to be seen. Khama Billiat is also a question mark‚ being heavily linked with a move away from the club; potentially back to Sundowns, a move that may surely weaken the glamour boys’ attacking prowess should it materialize. Though fan support at stadiums has dropped, the pedigree that Chiefs have is second to none, therefore they cannot be overlooked for one bit. Even in the new season the club will remain favorites though realistically, Amakhosi might have to wait a bit longer before they can “reclaim the glory”.

Orlando Pirates celebrate winning the Absa Premiership Final match against Golden Arrows at Orlando Stadium on May 21, 2011 in Soweto, South Africa.

(May 20, 2011 - Source: Gallo Images/Getty Images Europe)

Pirates

Orlando Pirates have finished runners-up in the last two seasons and blew the title race in 2018-19 when it was theirs for the taking. Having finished runners-up in the last two seasons, the Buccaneers are determined to go one better. With Coach Micho Sredojevic’s mandate very clear, the squad has been considerably strengthened ahead of what will be an intriguing campaign indeed.

Pirates have made a host of changes in the off-season‚ looking to intensify the pressure on rivals Sundowns in order to come out tops at the end of the season. Coach “Micho” will be looking to finally earn his first silverware for the Bucs since joining the club two seasons back. Pirates certainly look to be the biggest threat to Mamelodi Sundowns’ dominance. From face value, Pirates have bought well‚ though there are also quite a few “squad fillers” in there who are unlikely to push for a first team place.

From the past and current season, Pirates have been playing with great structure and a burst of speed up-front with the likes of Vincent Pule‚ Thembinkosi Lorch and Justin Shonga able to run at defences on the wings. Add Mhango to that list now, it’s total danger. What is more, the midfield combination of Musa Nyatama and Ben Motshwari will be expected to play a commanding role at the belly of the park and the addition of Siphesihle Ndlovu and Fortune Makaringe is expected to create a healthy competition at the belly of the park for the mighty Buccaneers. Much is expected from Pirates this season and they certainly have the ammunition to march towards the title come May 2020.

Moeneeb Josephs of Bidvest Wits reacts during the Absa Premiership match between Platinum Stars and Bidvest Wits at Royal Bafokeng Stadium on August 4, 2013 in Rustenburg, South Africa.

(Aug. 3, 2013 - Source: Gallo Images/Getty Images Europe)

The “Title Pretenders,” Wits and Cape Town City

Benni McCarthy's charges in Cape Town City probably didn't believe enough that they had a real fighting chance last season, but the one thing they have - that many PSL teams lack - is their fighting spirit. When they are a goal or two down, they don't simply throw in the towel. What they needed was to further bolster their squad and the acquisition of Aboubaker Mobara, Bernio Verhagen and Tashreeq Morris will make them even more difficult to beat.

On the other hand, Bidvest Wits boasting a coach that has won four league titles in Gavin Hunt, always makes the Clever Boys one amongst the favorites. Having international stars such as Namibian winger Deon Hotto and the Bafana Bafana trio of Thulani Hlatshwayo, Buhle Mkhwanazi and Sifiso Hlanti, also puts Wits in the title conversation. The quartet will be eager to bring what they learned at the recent Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt to the university side.

 There has been a change of leadership over the last two years at Wits following the departure of the company’s founder and billionaire Brian Joffe. Budgets have been slashed after Joffe's departure as the new bosses do not possess the same deep pockets for the club that the billionaire had. Players like Daylon Claasen‚ Edwin Gyimah‚ Darren Keet‚ Vuyo Mere‚ Bantu Mzwakali and Denis Weidlich were released but Wits have made some promising signings as they look to again challenge for the title. Brandon Petersen will start in goal ahead of Ricardo Goss while Phathutshedzo Nange from Black Leopards‚ has the potential to become an influential midfielder.

Conclusion

All in all, ready to build on the promising previous season and go one better, Pirates look like serious title contenders. For all we know, they are the main side that can push Sundowns all the way. One may argue that perhaps it’s too soon to judge them; nonetheless they look like the real deal. On the other hand, Chiefs will be looking to restore their pride and tarnished reputation by winning some silverware. Cape Town City will be looking to break into the top three and finally, Wits will continue to lurk behind with the hope of pouncing when unexpected, like they did three seasons ago. We’re in for a lot of shocks and drama yet again.

 Who’s your money on to walk away with the title this season? The ABSA Premiership is here, feel it!

Are Juventus Serie A Favorites?

Matthijs de Ligt of Juventus and Marcelo Brozovic of FC Internazionale talk prior to the International Champions Cup match between Juventus and FC Internazionale at the Nanjing Olympic Center Stadium on July 24, 2019 in Nanjing, China.

(July 23, 2019 - Source: Getty Images AsiaPac)

Forza Juve

They have had a great run, haven’t they? Eight Scudettos on the spin, one of which was won in that impressive 2011/12 campaign where they finished the entire season unbeaten. More profoundly, they have done it with three different managers in those 8 years, meaning it’s not just a result of one gaffer’s magic but perhaps the ageless spirit and wisdom of the Old Lady of Turin. Come to think of it, why were they nicknamed the Old Lady? Legend says it’s an ironic joke for their name Juventus, which means youth in Latin and also for notably sticking to some old players even up to date. Lady comes from how their fans love Juve as they would their better halves. Well, without turning this into an Italian history lesson, let’s chew the meat at hand. Yes, they have been dominant but rendered the Serie A less interesting to watch in that space of time.

Everyone wants some, “I didn’t see that coming” moments, for instance Leicester City’s historic 2014/15 Premier League title win. Fortunate enough for us lovers of the thrills and spills of the game, taking into account the events that have transpired over the summer, there seems to be a more realistic prospect of the Italian Serie A title changing hands, after close to a decade.

I hope I have piqued your interest because am going to get straight into it.

Cristiano Ronaldo of Juventus celebrates scoring his side's second goal during the International Champions Cup match between Juventus and Tottenham Hotspur at the Singapore National Stadium on July 21, 2019 in Singapore.

(July 20, 2019 - Source: Getty Images AsiaPac)

Addio (Goodbye) Allegri

The first fortunate factor that could favor the other bold Italian giants in their quest for a rare Serie A title, is actually self-inflicted by Juve. Them, parting ways with manager Massimiliano Allegri at the beginning of the summer hinted on what their priorities are at this point in time. It’s clearly not to win another Scudetto. The Italian had been a real clutch, taking over from Conte in 2014 and doing just enough to continue that impressive title winning run coupled with leading them to two Champions League finals in a space of three years. But the writing is on the wall, they are pricing another piece of silverware above the honor of becoming Italian champions, a UEFA Champions League crown they last laid their hands on, 23 years before today. No wonder they have had the privilege to pick and drop most of the finest rising and established Italian gaffers to do try and do that job in recent years with no success.

More evidence to support this cause states that the big money acquisitions of five time Balon d’Or winner Cristiano Ronaldo (Mr. Champions League) from Real Madrid, suiting up Aaron Ramsey with hefty wages, the capture of Mathijs de Ligt for the third most expensive fee for a defender and recently the charge to try and prize Romelu Lukaku away from Manchester United amongst others. They had been winning Scudettos without spending a lot but specialising in signing some of Europe’s top talent on free transfers. All of sudden, they feel the need to. More concretely, Juve know that it could probably take a century to have another Ronaldo in world football and the need to utilise this unique opportunity before the soon 35-year-old can hang up his boots. They’ve had the first strike at the UEFA crown and the second one called 2019/20 could be the last. In short, they really like Italian but need some more European flavour which could loosen their hold on the domestic title and give room for the likes of Napoli and Inter Milan to pounce. What else has happened over the summer?

“They came, went abroad, saw and conquered, now the three Italian stallions in Sarri, Conte and Ancelotti have returned to headline a looming war for supremacy on home soil. With the silent and potentially dangerous stakeholders that also include the fast-rising Atalanta, AC Milan and AS Roma, the 2019/20 Italian Serie A season could be the best we have seen in quite a long time.”

— Dennis Takaendesa, FirstTouch Africa

The Italian Job

So their new gaffer is Maurizio Sarri, a highly rated manager who has just won his first ever title with Chelsea in the recent 2018/19 season. A European crown, not the one Juve are craving but the sister, the UEFA Europa League title. Meaning the 60-year-old has bare minimum experience but less likely enough to help them maintain their foothold in Italy, as well as conquer Europe. Sarri’s “stubborn methods” came under a lot of fire in England as they seemed to suggest he needed more time to properly mold Chelsea to his vision, though doing considerably well in the end. Securing a champions league qualification for the Blues and winning some silverware. Now, that could be the same scenario at Juve, but does he have enough time? Considering the conversation we have just had, probably not.

But let’s look at how he could possibly set-up his team.

Juve’s predicted line-up

No doubt it’s a pretty strong 4-3-3 outfit (Sarri’s favorite formation), with the vastly experienced Buffon and long-time servant of the club returning from Paris to gang up with Ronaldo and company, there is hardly no better option in goal than the 41-year-old, who seemingly has the UEFA crown standing between him and retirement. With Mathijs De Ligt who captained Ajax to a Champions League semi-final in the previous campaign and meticulous Chiellini forming a centre-back pairing, they have the right mix of youth and experience. Alex Sandro and possibly Danilo on the left and right-back positions, provide some decent cover for the flanks and it’s in the midfield where it gets more interesting. Pjanic who has similar qualities as Sarri’s beloved Jorginho could retain his role alongside the dynamic Aaron Ramsey and the towering Adrien Rabiot who arrived from Paris St Germain in the summer. Up front, Gonzalo Higuain who just returned from a loan move at Chelsea, coincidentally with Maurizio whom he will work with for the third time dating back to their first meeting at Napoli; could finally get his chance to properly thrive at Juve. He would undoubtedly be flanked by the legendary Ronaldo and Bernardeschi. Another option would be the fluid Dybala but options is what they have in abundance with Matuidi, Samir Khedira, Douglas Costa and many more also looking to break into Sarri’s side.

It’s clear that this unit would be among Europe’s top 0.01%. But with the challenge of also managing egos of highly prized individuals falling onto Sarri’s plate, that won’t be any consolation for the Old Lady faithful who witnessed his fall out with Kepa Arrizabalaga in Chelsea’s Carabao Cup final defeat against Manchester City in February 2019. One consolation however is that the Italian is unproven on home soil and could be on a personal mission to edge his name among the best by winning the domestic title and the much need Champions League in one swoop.

But still, it’s not all that happened over the summer. The next factors have nothing to do with Juve but everything to do with the threats that are gunning for their domestic throne.

Antonio Conte and Inter Milan

No one knows Conte better than Juve themselves. During his 3 years at Turin, the 50-year-old impressively won three Serie A titles and two Suppercopa Italiana. Aside from the Old Lady, we all know him as the highly tactical serial winner who always has something up his sleeve. Here’s a history lesson for you. In his first season at Chelsea, up against inarguably Europe’s best gaffers that included Jurgen Klopp, Pep Guardiola, Jose Mourinho and Arsene Wenger, he came out on top to win the 2016/17 English Premier League title. He didn’t have the best of squads as compared to his foes but after three consecutive defeats in the opening stages of the season, Conte employed some tactical tweaks that saw him and the Blues win 13 games on the bounce and race to the finish line. His methods led to the 3-5-2 formation craze and variation that we have seen in recent years. Even when he came under scrutiny for his dealings with Chelsea players off the pitch and the supposed “boring style” of play, the Italian still got results. He wrapped up his disputed final season in England with an FA Cup win in the 2017/18 season, beating the Special One, Jose Mourinho’s Manchester United in the final.

In light of Conte’s brief bio above, its apparent what kind challenge Juve will get from Inter Milan. He is arguably the most experienced and highly proven gaffer in the league right now. Even more, he doesn’t have a bad squad to transmit his ideas through.

Let us also do justice and briefly look at how Inter could line up and cause Juve and everyone else some problems.

Inter’s predicted line-up

They are clearly not void of talent and experience as well. The possible defensive line up that would have Skriniar, de Vrij and Ghana’s Kwado Asamoah looks quite decent and arguably far even better than the Victor Moses, Gary Cahill, Azplicuetta unit he used to do the Chelsea job excellently. With the warrior and come-back kid, Brozovic, likely to play a key role in midfield and Politano or Ivan Perisic on either wings, they won’t be short of offensive options. Even better, there is mooted interest and likelihood of the Belgian, Romelu Lukaku joining the side from Manchester United which would also bolster the attack.

The transfer window is still open for Inter and the rest of Europe for at least 20 more days and some possible additions could make them even more interesting. For now, one thing is sure, Inter have good squad to try and match Juve and under the guidance of Conte who’s proved to be highly versatile when it comes to tactics, frustrating and annihilating opposition’s strengths; there’s a realistic chance of beating Juve to the 2019/20 Scudetto.

It’s not just the blue and black stripped warriors, there’s one more.

Carlo Ancelotti and Napoli

Kalidou Koulibaly of SSC Napoli vies Cristiano Ronaldo of Juventus during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and Juventus at Stadio San Paolo on March 3, 2019 in Naples, Italy.

(March 2, 2019 - Source: Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images Europe)

For the Naples citizens, it surely must be now personal for them. That thing of Juve winning consecutive Serie A titles. Napoli last won a Serie A title in the 1989/90 season. What’s even worse is that they have come so near yet so far on many occasions, starting ever so well and the Old Lady snatching the trophy in the closing stages. In the previous two seasons under Maurizio Sarri and former Real Madrid and Bayern Munich manager in Ancelotti, they have finished second. They are clearly looking up to what’s beyond that ceiling and very much eager to achieve something tangible with the excellent crop of players they currently have at their disposal. Napoli might have narrowly missed out on Nicolas Pepe who moved to Arsenal in a record-breaking deal but still have an awful lot of quality to get the job done. With additions coming in the form of the Greek defender, Manolas who will partner Koulibaly. It’s a nightmare defense. One that’s foundation to winning titles.

With that in mind, let’s actually organize them and predict how Ancelotti might organize his charges to challenge both Inter Milan, Juve or any other underdogs we could be sleeping on.

Napoli’s predicted line-up

They have real quality players in perhaps not all but the most essential areas. With the best defender in the world in my humble opinion, Senegal’s Kalidou Koulibaly leading from the back, they still retain one of division’s top defences. Fabian Ruiz who emerged as one of the top players as he and Spain clinched the 2019 UEFA U-21 European Championship will undoubtedly be back for business and eager replicate that form, supported by the once Manchester City linked, Allan in midfield. The quick and diminutive cutting edge duo of Dries Mertens, Lorenzo Insigne and Milik need no introduction and will no doubt return to terrorise defences.

Apart from new signings that could still be added to the team, Napoli finished trophy-less last season but very much showed they possess the pedigree to beat anyone or achieve anything on their day. It’s just the need to do it on a more consistent basis. For instance, after upsetting PSG and eventual champions Liverpool in the 2018/19 UEFA Champions League group stages, Napoli were unlucky to miss out on the round-of-16 spots. Only the goal difference separated them and Jurgen Klopp’s men.

Final note

They came, went abroad, saw and conquered, now the three Italian stallions in Sarri, Conte and Ancelotti have returned to headline a looming war for supremacy on home soil. With the silent and potentially dangerous stakeholders that also include the fast rising Atalanta, AC Milan and AS Roma, the 2019/20 Italian Serie A season could be the best we have seen in quite a long time.

Who are you rooting for? Tell us in the comment section below and share with your friends on social media to get the conversation going.

Hazard, Griezmann, De Jong, Vinicius: What's in store for the next era of El Clásico?

Zinedine Zidane manager / head coach of Real Madrid during the UEFA Champions League Semi Final Second Leg match between Real Madrid and Bayern Muenchen at the Bernabeu on May 1, 2018 in Madrid, Spain.

(April 30, 2018 - Source: Catherine Ivill/Getty Images Europe)

La Liga will soon kick-off for the 2019/2020 season. The Spanish League games are sure not to disappoint in delivering edge-of-the-seat kind of football none so more than El Clasico. The highly anticipated El Clasico is a tale of two rival cities, a rivalry that every player that walks into the Camp Nou and Estadio Bernabeu inherits. El Clasico is a local rivalry that has grabbed the attention of millions becoming a staple for football fans across the globe.

The end of an El Clasico era?

The greatest who've ever played the game, played in El Clasico. The list includes the great Ronaldo, Ronaldinho, Carles Puyol, and current Real Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane himself. Throughout the years that El Clasico has excited fans all over the globe, Barcelona and Real Madrid have over the years re-ignited this regional rivalry. Head to head, each side has inflicted some punitive scorelines on the other. While occasionally the arch-rivals have settled for an unsatisfactory draw.  In 242 El Clasico games, Los Blancos have won 95 games while Barcelona have won 96. These stats represent how close the competition is between the clubs.

“The Belgian often likened to Messi, is expected to play at that level, provide much needed goals and instill some fear in opponents. The 28-year old given a chance could pose some rivalry to Lionel in the upcoming season. Hazard, not one to shy away from a challenge on the pitch, if in peak fitness we can expect some reliably solid performances from the magician.  ”

— Margaret Mandeya, FirstTouch Africa

Lionel Messi of FC Barcelona delivers a speech prior to the Joan Gamper trophy friendly match at Nou Camp on August 04, 2019 in Barcelona, Spain.

(Aug. 3, 2019 - Source: Getty Images Europe)

In 2018, the era of the Christiano/Messi El Classico rivalry sadly ended while the world was still at odds deciding who between the two football greats was the best. Last season, Barcelona was undoubtedly the stronger side, winning more El Clasico match-ups while embattled Real Madrid failed to deliver football at the standard of one of the biggest teams on the globe. With a thoroughly underwhelming season for Real Madrid behind them, having registered their worst finish in the last 20 years, nineteen points behind Barcelona, the opportunity to write new history cannot come quick enough.

 Barcelona has been thriving, on the other hand. Lionel Messi continues to be the lynchpin for Barcelona. The greatest of all time has no plans of slowing down anytime soon. In the last decade, Barcelona's success has been the work of the greatest player ever to play an El Clasico, Messi. Messi is the most successful player in the match-up with 26 goals and two hat tricks. The 32-year old ran riot in the 2018/19 El Clasicos after Christiano packed for Juventus, leaving a hugely noticeable gap.

 As Gareth Bale and company failed to keep performing consistently coupled with multiple managerial changes, the challenges at the Santiago Bernabeu mounted. Zidane has even made it clear that he will not be working with Bale this season, sealing Bale’s fate at the Santiago Bernabeu. Reports indicate the pair have not spoken since May. The Welshman who has been struggling with injuries over the years was not able to deliver goals for Los Blancos despite being touted to carry the team after the Christiano era.  Karim Benzema ended the season as the top goal scorer whose personal performances managed to save face for Real Madrid over the previous season. Bale who became a regular feature in El Clasico in recent memory could soon leave Madrid. Isco, another veteran of the game is rumoured to be attracting interesting from the English Premiership and Pep Guardiola's Man City.

THE FACES OF THE NEW ERA

False start Bale

The summer signings from both clubs have been impressive, with Real Madrid recruiting the quick feet and explosive attacking intent of Eden Hazard for a sweet €100 million. The Belgian’s signing became the most expensive for the club, only behind Gareth Bale transfer from Spurs. Hazard is effectively next in line to try and fill the astronomical gap left by Christiano Ronaldo who moved his talents to Juventus before the start of the 2018/2019 season. The former Chelsea talisman is hoping to have as significant an impact on the Madrid attack as Christiano Ronaldo during his nine years at the club—34 La Liga hat tricks and 18 El Classico goals for the Portuguese maestro. The Belgian often likened to Messi, is expected to play at that level, provide much needed goals and instill some fear in opponents. The 28-year old given a chance could pose some rivalry to Lionel in the upcoming season. Hazard, not one to shy away from a challenge on the pitch, if in peak fitness we can expect some reliably solid performances from the Belgian magician. 

Luka Jovic, Benzema’s heir apparent?

Luka Jovic is the unicorn of the summer signings for Los Blancos. The 21-year-old has been at Eintracht Frankfurt where he was labelled an all-rounded powerhouse striker. He's been at the helm of Eintracht Frankfurt, scoring 27 goals last season. The youngster is the player enlisted to Los Blancos for around €60 million on a six-year contract. The move for Jovic attests Zidane's strategy to rebuild a strong attack, and the signing is one of the most impressive of the summer. Jovic is the young player to watch this season along with French defender Mendy who joined Real Madrid from Lyon.

Frenkie de Jong of Barcelona is presented with the man of the match award after the Joan Gamper Trophy pre-season friendly match between FC Barcelona and Arsenal at Nou Camp on August 04, 2019 in Barcelona, Spain.

(Aug. 3, 2019 - Source: Getty Images Europe)

Griezzy the world champion

Barcelona made their major signing of the summer in Antoine Griezmann. The 2018 world cup winner made his move to Barcelona for a massive €120 million. The Frenchman who plays a similar center forward position as Messi is adamant that his role is not to replace La Pulga. The former Atletico talisman, who rose to become one of the club's top scorers of all time will likely play a supporting role for Messi. With Neymar signing uncertain and unlikely for that matter, Griezmann will form part of the attacking cavalry that Barcelona has needed to strengthen their squad for the season. The pressure on Griezmann as the biggest transfer payout for Barcelona this summer pales in comparison to the expectation that Hazard's move will restore glory to Santiago Bernabeu. The Frenchman’s powerful strike is simply a notable addition to the team at Camp Nou.

Frenkie & Junior, the future

The signing of Frenkie de Jong, another young player who made rounds in Europe for his performances at Ajax adds another face to new El Clasico era. The same Ajax who shocked the world when they made it to the semi-finals of the 2018/19 UEFA Champions League season. The 22-year Dutch midfielder is a versatile player able to thrive at both the attacking and defensive midfield positions. Another much talked about Barca signing is defender Junior Firpo from Real Betis for €18 million. The defender is an ideal candidate to bolster the left-back position by proving adequate cover for Jordi Alba and utlimately strengthen the entire Barcelona defence.

CAN ZIDANE RESCUE THE STRUGGLING LOS BLANCOS, JUST IN TIME?

Vinicius Junior of Real Madrid CF controls the ball during the Santiago Bernabeu Trophy between Real Madrid CF and AC Milan at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on August 11, 2018 in Madrid, Spain.

(Aug. 10, 2018 - Source: Gonzalo Arroyo Moreno/Getty Images Europe)

Having played El Clasico for Real, Zizzou has also coached Madrid to three El Clasico wins in this first tenure as Los Blancos manager and now he is back for a second stint. The pressure on the Balon d’Or winner is mounting as Real look to re-emerge as Spain's top club over their arch-rivals. Since his return, Zidane is actually yet to make an impact on the team's performances. After these summer signings, it's clear that the French manager is orchestrating and building a strong attack. The two-time Champions League winner has to inject massive life into the ailing Real Madrid side before the start of the new season. After being given more control over the players that will be coming to Santiago Bernabeu, Zidane has been hands-on. On the radar for the manager is Paul Pogba, who could bring star power to the El Clasico and another face to the new era if the move materialises.

SPANISH TITLE RACE

The Spanish title race has many times been decided on the El Clasico matchup. Barcelona were consistent last season and look the healthiest going into the 2019/2020 La Liga season. Real Madrid needs to round up and do some housekeeping after the controversies between Zidane and Bale. After fundamentally weakening Atletico Madrid with the departure of Griezmann, Barcelona look like the favorites coming into the new season. The question will be if Zidane can pull the morale of the team together and reclaim their position of Spanish Champions over their El Clasico foes. Ernesto Valverde is in a more comfortable position as his squad has only grown from strength to strength even after comfortably clinching a second successive La Liga title. The Spanish manager however needs to gain some more domestic cups titles including the Copa del Rey and most especially the UCL, which may divide their attention more than is needed.

CONCLUSION

The El Clasico has a history stretching back to the beginning of the 20th century and each decade brings a new era and star players who carry the spirit of rivalry and ignite the passion all over again. The game is about the pride of a region and to settle which city is truly the home of football in Spain. A period of transition for both sides and while Real Madrid's transformation has been bumpy the prospects for an improved outfit are real. Do you think that Madrid can top Barcelona this coming season? Who will be victorious when the two meet?

To what extent are local football associations determining results by successive pay-dispute rows?

Introduction

Local football associations are the seedbeds for continental talent. Before we meet players at large tournaments like the Africa Cup of Nations and FIFA World Cup, the conditions that they are subjected to while within their localities actually determine their overall performance. Over the years, several teams have had pay disputes with their national associations. They have refused to board planes and have even threatened to boycott some matches without getting their pay. This article wants to dig deeper into this problem by analysing some of the underlying issues and what the implications of pay disputes are on African football. Before that, we will take a quick look at some countries that have fallen victim to this problem.

“By the time a whole team has agreed to boycott a game, it means the individual frustration that comes with being unpaid has mounted to a team level. Imagine how a group of frustrated players are supposed to train together, take each other’s mistakes and say their chants with high voices and joy. It is almost impossible.”

— Simiso Shabangu, FirstTouch Africa

Cameroon supporters cheer for their team ahead of the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations group A football match between Cameroon and Guinea-Bissau at the Stade de l'Amitie Sino-Gabonaise in Libreville on January 18, 2017. / AFP / GABRIEL BOUYS

(Jan. 17, 2017 - Source: AFP)

 Cameroon

Cameroon came 24 hours after the deadline because the Cameroonian Football Federation had delayed to pay their salaries and bonuses. This is in spite of the fact that the tournament regulation stipulates that teams should arrive at the host country at least 5 days before their opening game. In light of that, Cameroon might have to pay a fine for that. Is that irresponsibility? Definitely, not. The team refused to board a plane to Egypt because they demanded their salaries to be doubled for playing in the tournament. This was one of the players’ last technic. They had agreed to only 25% on their salaries and bonuses and even paid for their plane tickets to training camps which were held in Madrid and Doha. Such sacrifices are a testament of how much the players are willing to do for their country if only that would be complemented by efforts from the government.

Nigeria

Nigeria almost missed their 2013 FIFA Confederation Cup campaign after they also refused to fly out of Nigeria without their bonuses being paid. The most daring one and my personal favourite was that of the Super Falcons who decided to stay in their hotels in France and not fly out unless their bonuses are paid. In 2016, they also protested after they won the African Women’s Cup of Nations. It is very hard to understand how a team that has demonstrated consistent excellence is not paid on time. There are countries that would kill to have teams that play like the Nigerian Women’s national team.

Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe national team did go on the plane but refused to go for training while they were in Egypt as a way to express their grievances against the Zimbabwe Football Federation. They too had not been paid for some time. They also threatened to miss their first game if their accounts were not credited on time. Despite having a talented squad that looked quite promising, the Warriors were eventually eliminated from the group stages.

Where is the problem?

Guinea-Bissau's forward Piqueti advances with the ball past Cameroon's defender Collins Fai before scoring a goal during the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations group A football match between Cameroon and Guinea-Bissau at the Stade de l'Amitie Sino-Gabonaise in Libreville on January 18, 2017. / AFP / GABRIEL BOUYS

(Jan. 17, 2017 - Source: AFP)

For countries like Nigeria whose players have continuously done this to prove that this is not a one-time off problem but a challenge that is deeply engraved in the system, problems such as corruption and mismanagement of funds have been cited as some of the major causes for these pay disputes. Even when the money leaves the government coffers intended for the soccer players, for some reason it finds itself in the pockets of government officials who have perhaps not kicked a ball in decades. Corruption is such a rampant problem that has stifled many sectors of African governments. The bigger problem is that some African countries do not generally prioritise sports so much they are not given adequate funding. Private companies come in to sponsor local soccer leagues with the hope that the government will come in to take care of the national team. For example, in South Africa there is the ABSA Premiership and the MTN Super 8 which are sponsored by private companies. Instead, the government will give excuses about more pressing problems that need to be taken care of in the country. What makes things even worse is that some federations would not proactively communicate their challenges ahead of time. Sometimes, well-communicated disappointment is better than unkept promises. Some governments will go all the way to signing contracts with players only to go silent on them when it is time to pay. For example, Cameroon had a presidential decree in 2014 that stipulated that all salaries and bonuses will be paid at the commencement of any tournament. Was it ever upheld though? We told that story already.

Asisat Oshoala of Nigeria reacts after missing a breakaway attempt during the FIFA Women's U-20 Final against Germany at Olympic Stadium on August 24, 2014 in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Photo by Richard Wolowicz/Getty Images)

(Aug. 23, 2014 - Source: Richard Wolowicz/Getty Images North America)

Setting a precedent

Under no circumstances is it ever justifiable for anybody to work with no compensation, but why is it important for governments to set the right precedent for national teams? Firstly, the amount of effort it takes to get into the national team just deserves the rightful amount of compensation. Most of the players that make it to the national teams are their local teams’ star players and some have become so good that they have been outsourced by teams outside of their countries. The saturation of unquestionable talent in most national teams across Africa should prompt governments to do the right thing.

 Sports has become the escape route from social ills for most African youths. In a continent with high unemployment rates and pressure to engage in crime and corruption, sports is the unifying factor for young people that helps them evade these things. Beyond the fitness benefits that soccer comes with, it is also a sport that requires dedication, discipline and focus. Playing at the highest level of this taxing soccer journey should be rewarded profusely so that other young people can be motivated to continue working hard. If you cannot give African youth jobs, then at least give them the motivation to work hard on something.

Impact on performances

We have already established that the ability to win a game is not just determined by the talent and skills displayed on the field. It is also determined by the players’ emotional and mental wellbeing. Compensation gives one the motivation and aspiration to do more. In the absence of that, the opposite can also be true. It is not a shock that Cameroon went into AFCON 2019 as champions but barely made it far in the tournament. They were eliminated by Nigeria at the round-of-16 stage.

Team Germany poses for a photo with the championship trophy and their gold medals during the FIFA Women's U-20 Final at Olympic Stadium on August 24, 2014 in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Germany defeated Nigeria 1-0 in overtime.

(Aug. 23, 2014 - Source: Richard Wolowicz/Getty Images North America)

 It also destroys team morale. By the time a whole team has agreed to boycott a game, it means the individual frustration that comes with being unpaid has mounted to a team level. Imagine how a group of frustrated players are supposed to train together, take each other’s mistakes and say their chants with high voices and joy. It is almost impossible. There is only so much that a good coach can do for them when they are not intrinsically motivated.

 Conclusion

Before we blame players for not being focused or not training hard enough, it is important that we look at issues such as pay disputes that affect how much they can bring to the field. It has also transpired that the problem is with internal systems that do not prioritise or facilitate the timely payment for the players. Sadly, national teams which are meant to be countries’ pride are then not able to perform to their best levels due to factors that could be avoided. The lack of transparency also does not make it any better.

 With all that said, do you think teams are actually justified in boycotting matches and tournaments in order to get the attention of their governments?

How will the English Premier League's "Big 6" rank this season?

Manchester City Manager Josep Guardiola on stage during the Manchester City Trophy Parade in Manchester city centre on May 14, 2018 in Manchester, England.

(May 13, 2018 - Source: Lynne Cameron/Getty Images Europe)

Preamble

The return of the English Premier League has been longed for by most football fanatics and it's just a matter of days before we witness the resumption of the biggest and most exciting league in world football. Reminiscing on how good the previous season was, one can’t help but imagine how better the upcoming season will be. As expected; various teams will be having various objectives coming into the new season and unsurprisingly, the main focus will be on what has been known as “The big six” in Manchester City, Liverpool, Tottenham Hotspur, Chelsea, Manchester United and the Arsenal. The current champions Manchester City will be hoping to add to their seemingly increasing trophy cabinet, but will face intense competition from rivals Liverpool who will be looking to avenge the misfortunes of the previous season where they did all they could to win the league but it was simply not enough. Meanwhile, the rest of the top six clubs will be looking to stamp their authority and force their way into the top two and ultimately challenge for the title. Below we preview the return of the league and the possible outcome of the top six teams, nine months from now.

 Manchester City

It is without a shadow of doubt that last season’s top two teams will be the two teams gunning for the league title this season. Being miles ahead of the rest of the top six teams, Manchester City and Liverpool will only be hoping to replicate last season’s form and will only get better. To show their intentions on remaining dominant, Pep Guardiola has already made a statement of not backing down by strengthening the side in a critical position that is central to the way City plays. That is the acquisition of record signing Rodri to potentially replace the ever dependable Fernandinho in the holding midfield role. Nonetheless, it remains to be seen what effect Vincent Kompany's departure will have on City next season considering that the club have not signed a replacement for their talismanic former captain. As it stands, provided City don't sign a new centre-back, they will go into the new campaign with just three recognised senior central defenders in Aymeric Laporte, John Stones and Nicolas Otamendi. Nevertheless, the commanding presence of Aymeric Laporte at the back, coupled with the massive work rate from Kyle Walker, and the potential return of injury-prone left back Benjamin Mendy, should be enough to ensure that City's defense remains solid, though the addition of a new centre back stays crucially important. Alternatively, there have been rumours that Pep Guardiola might shift Fernandinho to the centre back position at some point. As such, one cannot rule out that possibility, especially considering the fact that Pep has been one tactically innovative coach who has had several successful experiments undertaken throughout the course of his managerial career. All in all, City all but look like they might go all the way once again and win it.

Liverpool manager, Jurgen Klopp during a Liverpool press conference ahead of their UEFA Champions League Group C match against SSC Napoli at Melwood Training Ground on December 10, 2018 in Liverpool, United Kingdom.

(Dec. 9, 2018 - Source: Clive Brunskill/Getty Images Europe)

 Liverpool

When you’re playing in the English Premier League and managed to amass a total of 97 points during the season surely you likely to win the league, right? Not necessarily, as Liverpool would attest. The Reds undoubtedly had one of the greatest campaigns in the club's illustrious history last season, winning the Champions League and coming within touching distance of a first-ever Premier League title since 1990. While they fell short last season, the Reds should be brimming with confidence going into the new season as they now surely know that the surest way of stealing the title from City is just to keep winning.

 Liverpool have done pretty much the same as City in terms of strategy, save for the fact that they haven’t brought in any significant signings to strengthen the team further. However, Klopp will now be able to call upon the likes of Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Joe Gomez, Rhian Brewster and Adam Lallana, who all missed large chunks of last season through injury. So much so that, the quartet will act as new signings as alluded by the German. The team’s ability to keep their crucial three frontmen is commendable and shows a key element of continuity and belief in what the club can achieve. Furthermore, the return of players such as Adam Lallana and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain from long injury layoffs will enhance the team’s depth especially considering the team’s rather lack of activity in the current transfer window. Nevertheless, Liverpool’s depth remains no match to City’s and considering that the team’s front three of Salah, Mane and Firmino played more than 90% of the team’s games, a cause for concern may arise in the event that one of these players gets injured as it might take some time for a suitable replacement to gel with the rest of the players. Still, the Reds remain huge title favourites especially if they are able to remain injury-free throughout the season.

Frank Lampard, Manager of Chelsea arrives at the stadium prior to the Pre-Season Friendly match between Bohemians FC and Chelsea FC at Dalymount Park on July 10, 2019 in Dublin, Ireland.

(July 9, 2019 - Source: Getty Images Europe)

Chelsea

Meanwhile, Chelsea, going through a host of changes during the current pre-season, will be hoping to remain in the top four whilst smoothly adjusting to the new philosophy coming in with club legend and new coach Frank Lampard. Being his first season as coach in the top flight league, much will be expected from the much loved Lampard and all eyes will be on him to ensure he is able to deliver with the players he has, especially considering Chelsea’s inability to sign new players until next summer. As such, Lampard will be hoping that a large number of his young players, most of whom have returned on loan from various clubs, will rise to the occasion and impress for the team. The likes of Mason Mount, Christian Pulisic and Tammy Abraham are expected to be heavily incorporated as key squad players that will be often called upon by Lampard to help the team. Furthermore, Lampard will be counting on the experience of players such as Kante and Azplicueta to settle the nerves of the many youngsters at the team’s disposal. However, the loss of Eden Hazard to Real Madrid has surely left a big hole in Chelsea’s attacking potent, and will require the club’s available attackers to rebrand their attacking style which has for a long time revolved around Hazard. What is worrying is that Chelsea have failed to find a reliable striker to bang in the goals since the departure of Diego Costa. Thus, Lampard might be forced to continue experimenting as he has done during pre-season, with the likes of Giroud, Batshuayi and Tammy Abraham all gunning to become the team’s frontman. While some are skeptical that Lampard’s lack of top flight experience might be exposed, others believe his appointment couldn’t have come at a better time where the team is looking to rebuild and transform itself once again, moving on from the much criticised ‘’Sarriball” which ironically got the team into the champions league one again, and further earned the team the Europa league trophy. Nevertheless, saying Chelsea are in for the title race might be too much of an ask especially considering the wholesale changes the club is going through. However, one cannot rule them out from producing a moment of magic and breaking into the top three. Nonetheless, being a transitional period for the club, Lampard will need time to make this Chelsea side gel and be able to compete. Therefore, anything more than a top-four finish and a decent Champions League run will most probably count as a bonus for the blues.

“Nevertheless, Liverpool’s depth remains no match to City’s and considering that the team’s front three of Salah, Mane and Firmino played more than 90% of the team’s games, a cause for concern may arise in the event that one of these players gets injured as it might take some time for a suitable replacement to gel with the rest of the players.”

— Siphosethu Thwala, FirstTouch Africa

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, Manager of Manchester United is seen with a match ball prior to the Premier League match between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Manchester United at Molineux on April 02, 2019 in Wolverhampton, United Kingdom.

(April 1, 2019 - Source: Getty Images Europe)

 Manchester United

United have failed to impose themselves on the summer transfer window with only Daniel James and Aaron Wan-Bissaka arriving to the team at the time of writing this article. What is worrying about this United side is that the team’s signings from last season failed to exert themselves. For instance, Fred looked out of place in the team and seemed to be struggling with confidence at times, while Diogo Dalot only showed glimpses of his potential as he was kept out of the side by a questionable Ashley Young. Fast forward to the new season, one would have hoped for a busy transfer market for United but it looks like it’s pretty much the same old story just a different season. While the team has done well to sign a long term replacement for Antonio Valencia at right back in Aaron Wan Bissaka, the Red Devils have struggled to make progress in resolving other issues in key positions such as the centre back position and central midfield. Having considered the most number of goals in a season in the club’s history last season, one would have thought United would make it their primary objective to resolve the team’s defence but until now it has been more talk and less action. The rumours of Harry Maguire and Kalidou Koulibaly coming into the team have remained just that; rumours and most United supporters will be worried going into the new season knowing that they might have to continue with the tried and tested options of Chris Smalling and Phil Jones both criticized for being suspects at the back. Worse, the departure of the hardworking Ander Herrera at the middle of the park has opened a huge hole in United’s midfield that will prove costly if the team fails to sign a new midfielder before the close of the transfer window. Perhaps the possible arrival of Paul Dybala as part of an exchange for Romelu Lukaku might ease supporters' hearts and provide a glimmer of hope for United. Until then, it is highly unlikely that United have enough depth to challenge the likes of City and Liverpool for the title and bring it back to the theatre of dreams.

Manager Unai Emery of Arsenal directs his players during the Joan Gamper trophy friendly match between FC Barcelona and Arsenal at Nou Camp on August 04, 2019 in Barcelona, Spain.

(Aug. 3, 2019 - Source: Getty Images Europe)

 Arsenal

The challenges faced by United are not far-fetched from those faced by Arsenal. While most Gunners fans will be excited about the deadly attacking trio of new acquisition Nicolas Pepe, Pierre Emerick-Aubameyang and Alexandre Lacazette, there are still worries defensively for the Gunners. What is alarming is that the club’s authorities seem to be priotritising the attack over defence where it is an open secret that Arsenal has dearly struggled. Signing a highly-rated young winger for £72 million is commendable, and so is beefing up of the midfield through signing Dani Ceballos, however, history has shown us that the way a defence is setup is key for teams that go on to win the league. It is no secret that perhaps the signing of Pepe is what the Gunners needed, as an upgrade to both Iwobi and Mkhitaryan. But one would have thought that the positions of greater concern right now would be the team’s defensive areas. Interesting enough, Arsenal looked like they were addressing the team’s defensive issues when they signed defender William Saliba for £27 million, only to loan him back to his former club St Etienne. Quite ironic if you ask me, especially considering that the futures of captain Laurent Koscielny and German defender Shkodran Mustafi, hang in the balance. Unless the club signs quality defenders, this season might prove to be no different for Arsenal. Worse, the team is also facing a leadership crisis considering the departure of Aaron Ramsey, the unending problems between Unai Emery and Mesut Ozil and most recently, Laurent Koscielny’s want away antics. All these issues might hamper the team’s progress, ambition and may merely force the team to resort to only focusing on a top six target.  

Mauricio Pochettino, Manager of Tottenham Hotspur looks on prior to the Group B match of the UEFA Champions League between PSV and Tottenham Hotspur at Philips Stadion on October 24, 2018 in Eindhoven, Netherlands.

(Oct. 23, 2018 - Source: Catherine Ivill/Getty Images Europe)

Tottenham

After enduring a crushing defeat to Liverpool in the Champions League final, Tottenham Hotspur have a right to feel down, but as the summer has progressed, the club hierarchy have acted well, and acted fast in the market to bolster the squad which though strong, has lacked depth in the past. In particular, the signing of Tanguy Ndombele, a wanted man across the whole of Europe, was impressive. Furthermore, the team’s ability to keep most of their key players especially Harry Kane and Christian Eriksen, both of whom were linked with moves to Real Madrid, will be important for Spurs going into the new season. Though they might miss the versatility of Kieran John Trippier at the right back position, they do have capable players such as Serge Aurier who can step up and put in a strong performance. Overall, having adjusted to their new stadium, coupled with the stability within the team, one cannot be faulted for vouching for this Spurs side going into the new season. They might lack the experience of winning the league, but they certainly have the pedigree to go all the way, as they showed us in the Champions League. Rule them out at your own peril.

 So, who will be where when the season ends?

Overall, my belief is that City will retain the title, Liverpool will be again looking to take the title race to the wire and wrestle the title away from City, but will eventually succumb to the quality of this City side. Tottenham will remain the team that looks like the real deal but just don’t have it in them to win the title. The fight for the last top four spot will remain a scramble between Chelsea, United and Arsenal, I predict United to steal it, provided they’re able to sign Dybala and Maguire. Chelsea will come in at fifth position and Arsenal will close off the top six bracket. What are your top six predictions?

FT's AFCON 2019 Ultimate XI

Many were called but eleven were chosen

Algeria are the champions of Africa. An underdog whom a few gave a chance but convinced all that they are worthy winners of the 2019 Total Africa Cup of Nations when all was said and done. By virtue of their triumph, it becomes even easier to explain why four of our chosen best eleven players from the 2019 AFCON tournament are a part of the Desert Foxes. These eleven are what would form team Africa to challenge any other continent or galaxy, chosen solely based on their performances in Egypt.

So without further ado, let’s reveal who they are, knitted in a basic 4-2-3-1 formation.

“Who else to partner Gueye in our midfield than the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations Best Player of the tournament. The 21-year-old box to box defensive midfielder otherwise known as a number 8 was a real nuisance to all the opposing players he came up against. The former Arsenal man looked obsessive, vicious and like he doesn’t tire in Algeria’s midfield set-up.”

— Dennis Takaendesa, FirstTouch Africa

Aissa Mandi of Algeria celebrates after defeating South Korea 4-2 during the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil Group H match between South Korea and Algeria at Estadio Beira-Rio on June 22, 2014 in Porto Alegre, Brazil.

(June 21, 2014 - Source: Vinicius Costa/Getty Images South America)

Mouez Hassen, Tunisia – Goalkeeper

The Tunisia goalkeeper’s main spotlight moment was probably not what he would have chosen. The 24-year-old OGC Nice shot-stopper almost recreated the Kepa-Maurizio Sari Chelsea scene when he was tactically substituted by Alain Giresse in the closing extra time minutes of their round of 16 clash against Ghana. Tunisia had played out to a thoroughly entertaining 1-1 draw and the more experienced Ben Mustapha was called upon to save penalties, which Mouez didn’t take so well, hesitating and eventually gesturing his frustrations as he left the pitch. The latter did actually save the day and the young goalkeeper later apologized to the Tunisians on twitter.

It goes without saying that the Carthage Eagles weren’t at their best despite reaching the last four of the 2019 AFCON. Mouez however was. He kept a total of 2 clean sheets in his 6 appearances, most remarkably pulling off some of the top breath-taking reflex saves in the tournament, to deny Madagascar a furtherance of their dream in the quarters and keeping Senegal at bay in the semi-finals. Just a small judgement mistake in extra-time ensured Tunisia’s Bronn scored an own goal that denied the 2004 champions a finals appearance.

If we are looking for the next exceptional shot stoppers on the continent, after the generation of the likes of Egypt’s El Hadary, surely North Africa has another one in Hassen.

Youcef Belaili, Algeria – Leftback

He is not a left-back and neither did he star as one in Algeria’s road to their second ever AFCON title, but his versatility and style of play allowed us to pick him as one for this list. Deployed mainly on the left-wing or midfield positions for the Desert Foxes, ahead of FC Porto’s Yacine Brahimi, Belaili emerged as one of the lesser known stars of the Egypt 2019 tournament. The 27-year-old Esperance Sportive de Tunis man was arguably Algeria’s best player of the tournament without being a subject of exceptionally spectacular moments. He slammed home the solitary goal in Algeria’s 1-0 win over Senegal in the group stages and was ever so consistent throughout the campaign, linking up well with Feghouli and doing the most basic things of passing, tackling and marking to absolute perfection.

Aissa Mandi, Algeria – Centre back

The champions conceded the least number of goals in the tournament, just once from open play in 7 matches and they majorly have Mandi and his partner Djamel Benlamri to thank for this. The 27-year-old Real Betis defender looked as sure as anyone can be in that Algerian back-line. Beating Senegal twice in the group stages and for the championship in the final, they calmly thwarted all of Mane’s threat, Ighalo and the highly rated Chukwueze in the semi-finals and many more that came calling. Comfortable on the ball, meticulous in tackling, winning in the air and bold in interceptions; the cool, calm and collected centre back was the best of them. He arguably bettered the performances of one of the world’s best defenders and his partner in this FirstTouch Africa XI setup whom we feature next.

Robert Lewandowski of Poland is challenged by Kalidou Koulibaly of Senegal during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group H match between Poland and Senegal at Spartak Stadium on June 19, 2018 in Moscow, Russia.

(June 18, 2018 - Source: Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images Europe)

Kalidou Koulibaly, Senegal – Centre back

Honestly, I might be getting tired writing about this man. The 28-year-old Napoli defender keeps making the news and the 2019 AFCON was no different, helping the Teranga Lions reach their second ever final berth and putting them in contention for a first ever Africa Cup of Nations title in their history. Working together with captain Cheikou Kouyate who was deployed as makeshift centre-back in replacing the injured Salif Sane, Kalidou erased all of the Crystal Palace midfielder’s mistakes, posing a stable physical presence when Aliou Cisse’s boys came up against Uganda and Benin in the knock-out stages. In total, Senegal kept 5 clean-sheets in all the 6 times they had Koulibaly guarding their goal. He missed out the final against Algeria for accumulation of yellow cards, with his teammates coming out to voice they were going to play for him, seeing just how central he had been to their 2019 AFCON conquest. Kalidou is effectively not just among the best in Africa, but the entire world.

Achraf Hakimi, Morocco– Right back

It takes someone special with some guts to fish out someone who didn’t even reach the last 8 as one of the tournament’s best players. You can crucify me later, but I am not going to go back on this one. The Real Madrid player personifies fearlessness. At just 20-years of age, his reputation for running up and down the flank, tearing apart other defenders, going at goal or laying up assists on a silver platter is unparalleled. No wonder he was named the 2018 Africa’s Best Young Player at the CAF Awards. After starring in the group stages, the right-back was also a victim of Morocco’s early and surprising exit from the tournament at the hands of Benin on penalty shootouts in the round of 16. The Atlas Lions had achieved maximum points in the group stages and finished without conceding a single goal from open play.

Idrissa Gueye, Senegal – Left defensive midfielder

If you are a follower of the English Premier League and this blog, you’ll know that Idrissa Gana Gueye has consistently been the best defensive midfielder and tackler in the past three seasons. The 29-year-old PSG bound midfielder effectively came to the party for Senegal in their 3rd group stage match against Kenya, after missing out on the match-day two loss against Algeria. The diminutive midfielder was the spine of Teranga Lions’ midfield and perhaps for the first ever, we saw him appearing in a more advanced midfield role. He edged his name in Senegal’s history books by scoring the only goal that gave Aliou Cisse’s men passage into the semi-finals after seeing off a stubborn Benin. His proposed move to the French Ligue 1 champions couldn’t have come at a better time and the Everton man could be a key ingredient in ending PSG’s UEFA Champions League curse.

Achraf Hakimi of Morocco runs with the ball during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group B match between Morocco and Iran at Saint Petersburg Stadium on June 15, 2018 in Saint Petersburg, Russia.

(June 14, 2018 - Source: Julian Finney/Getty Images Europe)

Ismael Bennacer, Algeria – Right defensive midfielder

Who else to partner Gueye in our midfield than the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations Best Player of the tournament. The 21-year-old box to box defensive midfielder otherwise known as a number 8 was a real nuisance to all the opposing players he came up against. The former Arsenal man looked obsessive, vicious and like he doesn’t tire in Algeria’s midfield set-up. The Empoli midfielder who is reportedly set to join Italian Serie A giants, AC Milan boasted a passing accuracy of more than 87% and racked up more than two assists even though stats do not tell the complete story when it comes to him. He is definitely one of the most exciting young African players to look out for in the near future.

Alexander Iwobi, Nigeria – Central attacking midfielder

The Super Eagles weren’t the most impressive or convincing unit throughout the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations and one of the players to thank for their 3rd place finish should be the Arsenal forward. Coming through the North London club’s academy, the 23-year-old forward’s potential has always been there for all to see, even earmarked to be as good as or even better the displays of the Nigerian legend and his uncle, Austin Jay Jay Okocha. After playing mostly as a central striker in his academy days, an attacking midfielder for Arsene Wenger and left-wing under Arsenal’s current head coach, Unai Emery; Iwobi’s search for his best position has always rendered him less effective than imaginable. However, in the Super Eagles’ charge to the semi-finals, Gernot Rohr deployed him as a number 10 and did a lot of heavy lifting in knitting the Nigerian team together. Even his criticized end-product was improved immensely, holding onto the ball to free wingers and wing-backs, linking up defense and attack. He scored that all important winner against the 2017 champions Cameroon in the round-of-16 and assisted a few others as well. After all, Emery could perhaps get the best out of Iwobi in that attacking midfielder position but given how he has options in Ozil, Mkhitaryan and now Ceballos; we ask if Arsenal is where Iwobi would craft a legendary career for himself.

Sadio Mane, Senegal – Left winger

When we talk of big name players who stepped up and showed their worthy, Sadio tops that list. The Liverpool forward surely took to the pitch and backed up his assertion that he would exchange his 2019 Champions League win for a maiden AFCON title with Senegal. After missing out on their 2-0 win over Tanzania, Mane came through very hungry in their 1-0 match-day two loss to Algeria. Always looking dangerous whenever in possession of the ball and keeping us all at the edge our seats, the 2018/19 Premier League golden boot winner was responsible for most of the tournament’s tasty dribbles. Fresh to the mind was how he wriggled and danced past two Benin defenders in a flash that set-up Gueye for Senegal’s quarter-final winner against the Squirrels. Even though he missed two penalties won from open play, Mane still managed to score 3 goals in 6 matches, just 2 shy of the golden boot winner, Odion Ighalo. One of Algeria’s highly successful strategies to win the 2019 AFCON gold involved throwing three or more players at Mane whenever he got the ball. Even then, he still proved difficult to contain.

Alexander Iwobi of Nigeria in action during the International Friendly match between Nigeria and Serbia at The Hive on March 27, 2018 in Barnet, England.

(March 26, 2018 - Source: Matthew Lewis/Getty Images Europe)

If Senegal had won the 2019 AFCON, surely, the 27-year-old would have been one of the favorites to win the 2019 FIFA Best Male Player Award and the Ballon d’Or. Now, we will have to wait and see.

Riyad Mahrez, Algeria – Right wing

The Manchester winger didn’t have the best of displays according to his standards, but how can you fault a big name player who comes through and captains his nation to a coveted Africa Cup of Nations title. The 2019 Premier League winner was targeted throughout the better part of the campaign and thus became a bit quiet on more than one occasions. However, when called upon to step up and carry the team, he did just that. Just like Mane, the Algerian play-maker scored a total of 3 goals, including the headlining injury time free-kick against Nigeria that proved the difference as the North Africans booked a finals appearance. He had just exhibited the hallmark of his role for Algeria, a few moments before that free-kick, carrying the ball from the right-wing, skipping past markers in a silky manner and denied by the finest of margins.

Overall, it was a real captain’s display by the 28-year-old for the champions.

Odion Ighalo, Nigeria – Centre forward

Who else to lead the line but the top goal scorer of the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations tournament. The 29-year-old Chinese Super League based forward bagged a total of 5 goals as Nigeria registered a 3rd place finish. After topping the scoring charts during the qualifiers with 6 goals to his name, the former Watford man proved that he surely is the best in the business. All of headed, penalty and poacher goals, he scored – resembling the traits of a complete marksman. Now that he has hung up his international boots “to give room for other young players” to shine, the Super Eagles have a responsibility to find his successor. Factually, Ighalo’s Super Eagles career wasn’t all sunshine and rainbows, even as he was criticized for poor showings at the 2018 FIFA World Cup. However, one thing is for sure, he finished well.

Mouez, Mandi, Koulibaly, Hakimi, Belaili, Bennacer, Gueye, Iwobi, Mane, Mahrez and Ighalo have been our best eleven from the 2019 Total Africa Cup of Nations. Who would you have in yours?

Winners and Losers from AFCON 19

The 2019 Africa Cup of Nations came to an end on Friday the 19th of July with Algeria defeating Senegal 1-0 to claim their first title since 1990 where they won it on home soil. As in any other tournament, there were different teams that were backed to win the tournament. Others were earmarked as potential surprise packages while others were unknown. All teams falling in these different categories slowly revealed themselves as the tourney progressed. The AFCON competition was characterized by all sorts of memorable events. From Nigeria's epic 3-2 win over 2017 winners Cameroon; to South Africa's shock win over disappointing hosts Egypt; and not forgetting Madagascar's epic penalty defeat of DR Congo; a tense quarter final face-off between Ivory Coast and Algeria; the magical last-gasp free kick from Riyad Mahrez that sent the latter into the final. The list of exciting moments in this year’s tournament is indeed, endless. Below we reflect on the winners and standout performers of the tournament, as well as those who fell short of expectations.

“Talk about a breath of fresh air! It is often said that every tournament needs a good underdog story: they surely don’t come much better than Madagascar. ”

— Siphosethu Thwala,FirstTouch Africa

Riyad Mahrez of Algeria leaves the team bus prior to the international friendly match between Algeria and Armenia at Estadio Tourbillon on May 31, 2014 in Sion, Switzerland.

(May 30, 2014 - Source: Philipp Schmidli/Getty Images Europe)

WINNERS

Algeria

Lifting the tournament trophy for only the second time, little or no one can feel that these guys were not worthy champions. They played their hearts out for the duration of the tourney. Yes, fortune did favor them along the way (Baghdad Bounedjah's early deflected goal is an example) but in all honesty, Algeria played very well. The frenzy celebrations at the end of the final whistle said it all. Having waited for such a moment for nearly three decades when the team last lifted the trophy, Algeria’s triumph was well worth the wait for the North African giants. They scored 13 goals in the tournament, five more than fellow finalists, Senegal. Their journey to the final was also nothing short of being memorable. Djamel Belmadi's side needed a sensational last-gasp Riyad Mahrez winner to beat Nigeria in the last four, having previously won a tense penalty shootout against Ivory Coast. Until their dramatic shootout win over Ivory Coast, Algeria's run through AFCON had been as sleek as they come. They did not concede a goal until Jonathan Kodjia's equalizer for Ivory Coast, and looked like the tournament's most complete team in all departments. It is hard to argue that they did not deserve to win the tournament. Their hard work paid off.

Nigeria

This pick is probably debatable, but I stand my ground. After almost forcing their way into the finals until they were stopped in their tracks by Riyad Mahrez’s sublime last minute free kick, one can argue that the Nigerians had a satisfactory tournament. They bounced back from their earlier shocking 2-0 defeat to surprise package Madagascar, and slowly exerted themselves as the tournament progressed, beating Cameroon in the round of 16. They further went on to beat South Africa’s Bafana Bafana to seal a place in the semi-finals. Taking into account the many problems faced by the team leading up to the tournament, including the goalkeeping headache faced by coach Gernot Rohr, the fact that the West African side made it to the semifinals cannot be wholly overlooked and as such, they deserve some credit as they walked away with the bronze after dispatching Tunisia to earn a record eighth third-place medal.

The Nigeria team warm up prior to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group D match between Croatia and Nigeria at Kaliningrad Stadium on June 16, 2018 in Kaliningrad, Russia.

(June 15, 2018 - Source: Julian Finney/Getty Images Europe)

Madagascar

Talk about a breath of fresh air! It is often said that every tournament needs a good underdog story: they surely don't come much better than Madagascar. Making their maiden appearance at the tournament, the team shocked many as they went as far as the quarter-finals stage. The manner of their progress was remarkable too: they suffered stage fright in the first half of their opener with Guinea, but from then on, it was as if a switch had flicked on. They drew their first game against Guinea, beat Burundi in their second, before they stunned Nigeria, convincingly beating them, 2-0. They did not stop there. They went on to the round of 16 where they further outgunned DR Congo before being put to the sword by a well alert Tunisian side in the last eight. Nevertheless, what is memorable about the journey of this Madagascar side is the manner in which they achieved this feat. They played an appetizing brand of attacking football that was pleasing to the eyes of many football fanatics, showing no fear, not even against the tried and tested so called big teams. They seemed to have a different tactical plan for each game and one must commend their charismatic coach Nicolas Dupuis for leading the team that far, especially considering the chaotic state the infrastructure of Madagascar football is in back on the island. It is without a doubt that Madagascar have been the romantic story of this tournament and one cannot help but wonder the growth they will have had in the next AFCON tournament.

“The ultimate flop of the tournament. As winners of three of four previous editions in Egypt, the hosts were expected to be chief contenders for a record-extending eighth title.”

— Siphosethu Thwala, FirstTouch Africa

LOSERS

Senegal

Aliou Cisse, Head coach of Senegal gives instructions to Cheikhou Kouyate and Sadio Mane of Senegal during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group H match between Senegal and Colombia at Samara Arena on June 28, 2018 in Samara, Russia.

(June 27, 2018 - Source: Michael Steele/Getty Images Europe)

Another debatable pick in this category, understandably so. Senegal are a perfect epitome of the adage “so near yet so far”. This Senegalese side rarely looked troubled throughout the whole tournament. Finishing off with a silver medal after a steady steely run to the final, they went home to a sizable crowd that praised their efforts despite the heartbreak of losing a second final. Boasting of a number of African stars, Senegal were one of the top two teams that were in the running to win the AFCON title but they choked when it mattered most. The team had an impressive run leading to the final, only losing ironically to their final opponents Algeria. Though some will feel the team was somewhat unfortunate to be without their reliable defender in Napoli’s Kalidou Koulibaly in the epic finale due to suspension. As such, the long wait to deliver a title that has for so long remained elusive, remains the primary objective for the Teranga Lions moving forward. Though they may endure this pain for a while, they can pride themselves in having a bright future, especially with a young coach like Cisse at the helm. It is only a matter of time now for the Senegalese, or is it?

Egypt and Salah

The ultimate flop of the tournament. As winners of three of four previous editions in Egypt, the hosts were expected to be chief contenders for a record-extending eighth title. Little did we know. Playing in their own backyard, the Egyptians were a disappointment to say the least. Worse, not even the presence of UEFA Champions League winner Mo Salah was enough to propel the Pharaohs to glory on home soil. Fresh from a memorable season with Liverpool, you could be forgiven for believing that Salah would be the central figure of this tournament. Though he did score twice in the group stages against DR Congo and Uganda respectively, Salah could not deliver when his country needed him the most during the painful 1-0 loss to South Africa in the last 16 which shocked the 75 000 scores of fans at the Cairo International Stadium. The seven-time champions’ exit cost coach Javier Aguirre his job as he was soon sacked by the Egyptian Football Association, becoming the first of many casualties, which also included the resignation of Egyptian FA president Hani Abou Rida.

Mohamed Salah of Egypt is consoled by team mate Shikabala the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group A match between Russia and Egypt at Saint Petersburg Stadium on June 19, 2018 in Saint Petersburg, Russia.

(June 18, 2018 - Source: Richard Heathcote/Getty Images Europe)

Morocco

There was no doubt in many people’s minds that when the Atlas Lions took a flight to Egypt, they would be counted among the pre-tournament favorites for AFCON 2019, but however suffered a shock penalty shootout defeat at the hands of Benin in the last 16. For a moment, one thought these guys would go all the way, and rightly so. They had won all three of their group stage matches with ease, conceding no goals. That was before they were put to the sword by a determined Benin outfit during a 4-1 decisive penalty shootout. The Moroccans began the group phase with a trio of 1-0 wins over Namibia, South Africa and the Ivory Coast but nobody would imagine what would befall them in the last 16 match. Boasting the presence of Ajax Amsterdam’s Hakim Ziyech who had set tongues wagging during the 2018/19 Champions League season, most Moroccan fans were hoping he would drive the team to glory. But Benin had other ideas. The 26-year-old did not sparkle at all in Egypt, which was worsened by a penalty miss in injury time against Benin. It came as no surprise that their coach, the renowned Herve Renard, too, was in good old fashion, sacked.

Cameroon

Being the defending champions, much was expected from the Cameroonian side, but they couldn’t deliver. There was just no real hint of class in the Indomitable Lions’ play. Not even the presence of celebrated football legends Clarence Seedorf and his assistant Patrick Kluivert could help their cause. Clarence Seedorf’s men failed dismally to live up to expectations and defend their trophy. They were painfully ousted by third place finishers, Nigeria in what was a five goal thriller, possibly the game of the tournament. As has become the norm in football, the big flop costed Seedorf his job.

 Other teams such as Ghana cannot be spared. The West African side appeared to lack energy and focus during the whole tournament and deserve to be mentioned among the other sides that flopped.

Herve Renard, Head coach of Morocco consoles Faycal Fajr of Morocco who looks dejected following his sides defeat, meaning his team are knocked out of the World Cup after the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group B match between Portugal and Morocco at Luzhniki Stadium on June 20, 2018 in Moscow, Russia.

(June 19, 2018 - Source: Michael Steele/Getty Images Europe)

NOSTALGIC MOMENTS

Mahrez's sensational flourish aside, the tournament's bigger names were rather peripheral. Mohamed Salah did score two fine goals early on for Egypt, and Sadio Mane was on target three times for Senegal, also missing two penalties. But none of them really produced a performance for the ages, or one to define the tournament. The real heroes were players like Ismael Bennacer, Baghdad Bounedjah and Youcef Belaili, a trio that proved that the AFCON tournament still has the potential to unleash a breadth of new stars.

Overall, it was a fine tournament for bright, up-and-coming coaches and none more so than the victorious Djamel Belmadi. Algeria's tactical mastermind conducted himself with class throughout the tourney, building a team that could sweep opponents aside through sheer technical quality in one moment, while deriving a game shutting display the next. The same can be said for Aliou Cisse, his old friend and Senegalese counterpart, who guided his side with class to the narrow final defeat. On that note, it appears that perhaps we may begin to see more local coaches taking charge of their national teams, a realization that developing local coaches can be advantageous in the long run.

How Peru shocked the world reaching the 2019 Copa America Final

Jefferson Farfan of Peru heads the ball with teammate Paolo Guerrero and Carlos Zambrano during the Copa America Brazil 2019 group A match between Bolivia and Peru at Maracana Stadium on June 18, 2019 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

(June 17, 2019 - Source: Getty Images South America)

A miracle deferred

Well, this summer was quite fun. The 2019/20 European football season is almost here, but it’s almost like it never left. With Megan Rapinoe and the USWNT’s second successive women’s world cup title topping the pile, Algeria’s assumption of the title of African champions closely followed; especially after entering the tournament as underdogs and tactically dominating it. What about the celebrations that followed in the North African country, France and the rest of the world? That is something worth of a watch or a second one if you had already done so. All of Spain’s U-21 UEFA European Championship triumph, Ukraine’s U-20 FIFA World Cup win in Poland or Mexico’s record extending CONCACAF gold cup success over the United States Men’s National Team, kept us at the edge of our seats and gave us something to cherish, make memes, cry or throw banter about. There is actually another one.

No, it’s not Brazil ending their 12-year drought to win the Copa America in front of the ever so infectious and demanding Maracana fans, though that was also pretty cool, or the continuation of Messi and Argentina’s woes on the big stage. It is Peru. The “little” Peru. In the midst of the globally acclaimed South American football giants of Chile, Uruguay, Argentina, Colombia; it was Peru who earned the right to face Brazil in the 2019 final. It was obviously not a fairy-tale ending for the La Blanquirroja as the hosts stepped up to grab a deserved 3-1 victory and declared winners of the 46th edition of the tournament. The Peruvians were on the verge of achieving something close to Leicester’s 2015/16 Premier League title win or Zambia’s 2012 Africa Cup of Nations miracle, and we were all going to be witnesses.

This therefore calls for the need to reflect and learn how they made it.

“When you thought it would have gotten better, it got worse. Brazil put mud in their pudding. The record world cup winners did what they like doing and what’s demanded of them by their fans, with Firmino and Willian turning on the style to humiliate the Peruvians by 5 clear goals to nothing.”

— Dennis Takaendesa, FirstTouch Africa

Peru player Paolo Guerrero (r) celebrates his goal with Christian Cueva during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group C match between Australia and Peru at Fisht Stadium on June 26, 2018 in Sochi, Russia.

(June 25, 2018 - Source: Stu Forster/Getty Images Europe)

The real beginning

It didn’t start with the Copa America 2019. Time and time again, whenever we see champions on the podium, more often than not, we are reminded of the indispensable success ingredients of character shaped through experience, desire and discipline to see it through. Such a big spotlight moment had actually been always coming for the Peruvians who made the 2018 FIFA World Cup finals in Russia, effectively ending a 30-year drought. Even better were their performances in the tournament, winning the praise of many neutrals who felt they weren’t at all boring to watch. Despite not reaching the knock-out stages in Russia, La Blanquirroja were by far the dominant side in their 1-0 opening loss to Denmark and tough opponents for eventual champions, France who managed only a narrow 1-0 victory over them. They got their dues in the final group stage match, where they put on the costumes and made a show of their 2-0 victory over the Australians, finishing on a high and returning home to a hero’s welcome in Lima. Their biggest win was the experience gained at the biggest stage and the lessons learnt which substantively make up the bulk of the reasons why they reached Maracana final 2019.

Road to the final

It wasn’t at all the best of starts by Peru in the 2019 Copa America tournament. A 3-0 friendly loss to Colombia just six days before the commencement of the tournament surely put them in the category of those not to expect much from. However, a 0-0 draw against Venezuela on opening day, followed by an expected 3-1 win over Bolivia gave them a lift but didn’t exactly raise eyebrows seeing that they were matches which they were expected to win or at least be comfortable in.

When you thought it would have gotten better, it got worse. Brazil put mud in their pudding. The record world cup winners did what they like doing and what’s demanded of them by their fans, with Firmino and Willian turning on the style to humiliate the Peruvians by 5 clear goals to nothing. It was only through the blessing of the calculator that La Blanquirroja qualified as one of the two best 3rd placed team from their group ahead of Japan. That second chance was really a blessing in disguise to Gareca’s men who started defying odds in the knockout stages.

A robust and disciplined tactical performance against the most successful team in the Copa America history, 15 time champions Uruguay in the quarter-final was enough to hold the 2018 world cup quarter-finalists to a 0-0 draw, eventually beating them on penalty shootouts. “Just a lucky park the bus performance” could have been the reaction of many onlookers. It became official that they actually mean business when they put three past the holders, Chile, who were on the hunt for a third consecutive title. They saw less of the ball but put all their chances to great use with Flores opening the scoring in the 21st minute, Yotun doubling the lead in the 38th minute before veteran Paolo Guerrero declared it a no contest in the 91st minute.

That is how they got us and everyone talking about them. Quite extraordinary for a nation who last appeared in the Copa America final back in 1975. Indeed, the current Peruvian national football team is what we could call a golden generation. But who’s behind all their exploits.

Head Coach Ricardo Gareca of Peru reacting prior to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Qualifier match between the New Zealand All Whites and Peru at Westpac Stadium on November 11, 2017 in Wellington, New Zealand.

(Nov. 10, 2017 - Source: Kai Schwoerer/Getty Images AsiaPac)

Gareca, el Tigre

One man, Ricardo Gareca. The 61-year-old has moved mountains during his four years in charge of the Peruvian national team and that has not really been a major surprise. The Argentine had a relatively successful football career as a player appearing for the likes of River Plate and Boca Juniors, which actually pales in comparison to his managerial one. Nicknamed el Tigre (the tiger) or el Flaco (the thin one) during his playing days, Gareca has indeed become a real tiger when it comes to tactics and ruthlessness.  Before Peru, he had won numerous club titles that include the domestic league title in Peru and three championships in a four-year spell with Argentine club, Velez Sarsfield. He could have joined the elite company of Marcos Calderon and Jack Greenwell, the only two people to have led Peru to a Copa America title but the 3-1 loss to Brazil in the final stood in the way of that. His signature, committed; defensively meticulous; intelligent and ruthless approach of setting up teams has always given his sides chances against any opponent even though they are usually second-best in retaining possession. Such is how he has set-up Peru coupled with quick and smart-interplay which ensures they can hurt opponents at any of the few occasions they get the ball. During el Tigre’s time, Peru reached the Copa America semi-finals in 2015, eliminated Brazil in 2016 and also secured a 2018 FIFA World Cup finals spot after three decades. They are really on the up and there’s no telling how far they can still go provided the Argentine stays at the helm of their affairs.

The future

Apart from captain and veteran striker, Paolo Guerrero who’s now 35-years of age, most of Peru’s headlining stars are in their mid to late twenties. This means that they have at least another four years to run and exhaust the experience they have gotten in this highly successful spell. Even better, the heights they have reached have definitely set a precedent of what’s achievable and generations which follow will be less afraid to dream big. Rest assured, this is the last we won’t hear of or be talking about the “little” Peru.

Is VAR a superhero or a villain in the future of global football?

VAR has come under scrutiny once more after a series of controversial decisions made using the instant replay system during the 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup.  FIFA introduced virtual assistant refereeing technology on the global football stage in the 2018 FIFA Men's World Cup in Brazil. It has received significant push back from football fans who argue that VAR will disrupt the game as it has come to be loved. Much of the same argument still exists. The position of VAR skeptics is that an increased focus on accuracy would take away the flair and free play. The relevance of VAR has been brought into question even further this year. VAR dominated headlines in the 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup after players and coaches raised fresh criticism about its relevance to global football.

“The statistics still show VAR improved the decision-making accuracy in the group stages to 98% as compared to 92.5% without it. Human error in football has always been frustrating given the fact that once the referee makes a call, whether right or wrong; there was no way to check in real-time.  ”

— Margaret Mandeya, FirstTouch Africa

Alex Morgan of the USA is fouled by Stefanie Van der Gragt of the Netherlands leading to a penalty during the 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup France Final match between The United States of America and The Netherlands at Stade de Lyon on July 07, 2019 in Lyon, France.

(July 6, 2019 - Source: Getty Images Europe)

VAR controversy at the 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup  

FIFA's decision to approve the use of VAR at the tournament came in March, just three months before the start of the competition. The timing of the VAR was the major challenge, with some coaches and pundits calling out FIFA for using the Women's World Cup as a testing ground for VAR. Cameroon's Indomitable Lionesses had a passionate protest during their round-of-16, 3-0 loss to England. Specifically, after feeling hard done by, the Cameroonians proceeded to stop play for minutes, refusing to continue the game in protest of the VAR decisions. Ellen White's second goal of the match was firstly ruled as offside and later allowed after VAR consultation. The same way that the Indomitable Lionesses felt that VAR had robbed them of their chances; other teams also faced a similar fate to the Cameroonians.

Among the other teams that had a bone to pick with the VAR system, was Scotland.  In the group stages of the tournament, Argentina came back from a 3-0 loss against Scotland to draw, 3-3. In stoppage time, a late infringement led to a VAR penalty decision which was initially saved by the Scottish goalkeeper. In a shocking twist, the referee ruled that the goalkeeper moved from the line before Argentina took the penalty shot and after consulting VAR, the penalty was retaken. Nigeria was too a victim of the penalty retake after France had missed the penalty, it was judged with VAR that the Nigerian goalie had moved off the line before the kick. 

Previously, such minor infringements would have gone unnoticed, but VAR is making the enforcement of the rules of the game much stricter. While everyone would agree that the rules should be observed for fair play, some do feel that football is becoming too rigid and too technical. 

Part of the debate around the FIFA Women's World Cup was around the new rule that was responsible for dashing the dreams of both Scotland and Argentina. The new rules from the International Football Board say that a goalkeeper must always have one foot on the line during a penalty kick as opposed to the previous rule of two feet.

The big screen inside the staduim informs fans of a VAR review in consideration, after referee Milorad Mazic awards Senegal a penalty, which he then rescinds after looking at the VAR footage during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group H match between Senegal and Colombia at Samara Arena on June 28, 2018 in Samara, Russia.

(June 27, 2018 - Source: Michael Steele/Getty Images Europe)

Do we even need VAR?

VAR is not detached from traditional refereeing —it's a sidekick to the match official, and it's not an either-or situation. Referees still have the last call in deciding whether an infringement has been made. Having video-assisted refereeing has overall reduced the number of incorrect calls and improved the accuracy of referees. The statistics still show VAR improved the decision-making accuracy in the group stages to 98% as compared to 92.5% without it. Human error in football has always been frustrating given the fact that once the referee makes a call, whether right or wrong; there was no way to check in real-time. 

A positive aspect of VAR is that it increases the transparency of the calls made by referees. They are countless allegations of dubious referees being caught in the thick of match fixing scandals that have rocked the footballing world and made us question the authenticity of the entire system. These referees were often part of a large scheme of match-fixers and betting mafias. When these ​match-fixing scandals​ come to the public's attention, it has always triggered a discussion around solutions to prevent such callous disregard of ethics by match officials. VAR can bring accountability, which has sometimes been lacking in football.  Before VAR, it was easy for referees to make dubious calls as a referee, VAR makes it more challenging to hide blatant match-fixing attempts. 

Colombia players confront referee Milorad Mazic after he awards Senegal a penalty before rescinding the decision after reviewing VAR footage during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group H match between Senegal and Colombia at Samara Arena on June 28, 2018 in Samara, Russia.

(June 27, 2018 - Source: Stu Forster/Getty Images Europe)

While the coming of VAR was quite a noble effort by the football governing bodies, the interpretation of "match-changing situations" needs to be given more attention. Referees have lost the autonomy to make decisions without leaning on the VAR to confirm each decision, leading to longer and slower games. I would argue that the biggest flaw of VAR is that it slows down the pace of the game. Games are now featuring more abrupt 2 minutes, even up to 4 minutes stop to allow the referee to review the VAR footage. Before VAR, it was rare to see a game stop as many times as has become common. Ultimately, increase in stoppage time has increased the average length of matches. In the 2018 Men's World Cup, the average stoppage time increased from 5.4 minutes to 6.4 minutes.

VAR going forward

The success of VAR depends on making some critical changes to how it's used. The Premier League will use VAR for the first time in the 2019/20 season. The Football Association has been paying close attention to the controversies surrounding VAR at the Women's World Cup in preparing for the launch of VAR in the 2019-2020 season. One thing that has come up in how the FA would like to do things differently to how we've seen VAR in previous tournaments is to reduce its interference and apply it more consistently in accordance with the laid out rules.

Despite the controversies, I would argue that VAR should stay. Fair play is becoming more of a reality owing to VAR. The FA has correctly defined the guidelines for the part that VAR will play in the Premier League. FIFA must reanalyze the interaction with VAR globally which would allow for more seamless consultations.

The USA are back to back champs. Even though European nations are making progress, substance must always trump style.

Alex Morgan, Megan Rapinoe, and Allie Long celebrate during the U.S. Women's National Soccer Team Victory Parade and City Hall Ceremony on July 10, 2019 in New York City.

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

Introduction

Over the past few months leading to the global showpiece that is the FIFA World Cup, the women’s football fraternity has been filled with both inspiration and disappointing news. Some of the issues caused an international uproar while a fair share caused the rest of the world to take a pause, sit back and critically think of the issues that are affecting our societies. We saw Ada Hegerberg refuse to appear in the 2019 World Cup because of a dispute between her and the Norwegian football federation over the amount of resources availed to the national team. Some fans were of the persuasion that the 2018 Ballon d’Or winner feels like she has gotten bigger than the Norwegian national team whereas others did agree that maybe it was time we looked at how our governments prioritize what women do. Even after we went past that wave of the tournament proceeding without Ada on the field, there were still more complaints about it. It was firstly, the fact that the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) was introduced very close to the world cup which did not give players and coaches enough time to get used to the revolutionary equipment that is meant to improve the quality of refereeing decisions. There was also the general misconception that the FIFA Women’s World Cup (WWC) was a counterfeit of the men’s World Cup and its credibility got questioned by some. Cameroon’s “childish” behavior during their match against England in the round-of-16 and the “exaggerated” celebrations in the USWNT’s 13-0 win over Thailand also brought a lot of interesting conversations on the streets. In the midst of all that, nothing could stop the ladies from giving their best and we got to the end of the tournament where we saw the United States Women’s National team win the WWC for the fourth time, which is more than any other national team has won it. We want to analyse what this means for women’s football and think through some of the structures that have been put in place that enable the level of excellence shown by the USWNT.

“ Their win has brought even more attention to this crucial conversation in the society and given the champions and the rest of the world, more evidence to further their cause.”

— Simiso Shabangu, FirstTouch Africa

Lieke Martens, Stefanie van der Gragt, Vivianne Miedema and Anouk Dekker of the Netherlands make a defensive wall during the Final of the UEFA Women's Euro 2017 between Netherlands and Denmark at FC Twente Stadium on August 6, 2017 in Enschede, Netherlands.

(Aug. 5, 2017 - Source: Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images Europe)

USWNT winning formula over the years

When you win once, it could easily be discarded as odds being in your favor, but if you do it multiple times, then it means excellence has become part of your DNA. How that excellent character comes to life can only be as a result of intentional and systematic efforts in the form of structures put in place, enabling that kind of behavior. Here’s some of them:

 1.Thriving local soccer leagues and international exposure

The U.S. has generally invested a lot into structures such as the university soccer leagues that do not only enable the identification of talent, but allows this talent to be groomed into the powerhouse that the national team has become. A report by College Choice proves that soccer has become a key part of college life in the US spanning across decades. This places the country far ahead of any other country that they get to meet at the world cup. In essence, preparation for the world cup does not begin a few days before, but begins decades before the ladies get to hit the field.

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)

 Beyond the university leagues, there are also thriving local leagues that challenge the players to put on their A-game all the time. Leagues like the Women’s Premier Soccer League and the National Women’s Soccer League have become the breeding ground for talent in the US and even the go to destination for foreign players. Some of their players also get to play in other leagues outside of the country where they are chiseled into legends of excellence. Local leagues have raised stars that include Hope Solo, Alex Morgan and Lindsey Horan. As a national team, they have also always participated in the SheBelieves Cup, and numerous international friendlies. This goes to prove that you cannot build a great team without exposure to opportunities that yield continuous growth.

 2. Deeply inculcated “winning” mindset

The kind of attitude and character that has also been inculcated into the team is that of ruthlessness and unrelenting at all times. Only a team that has been groomed to be like that can polarize opinion by scoring 13 goals against Thailand and still play like they are trailing. This attitude is also supported by prominent voices in the US space that are calling for equal pay in the game and the investment of resources into growing women’s soccer in the US. Equally ingrained in the Stars & Stripes’ drive is the innate desire to want to excel at something they started. As one of the initial pioneers of the WC, it is not a surprise that the US have maintained that level of excellence over the years. They got to learn the winning formula way before anybody else joined the game.

 Setting a precedence and inviting others in

The 2019 world cup victory is actually not just for the USWNT, but extends to women’s soccer in general. Regional competitions like the Total Women Africa Cup of Nations and the UEFA Women’s Euro Cup have also gained prominence in the field. Their contribution to the development of talent in the game can never be overstated. Players who participate in these tournaments become the cornerstones and jewels of their national teams. The bigger wave of women empowerment across the world that advocates for women’s equal inclusion in sports is also something that is contributing to the exponential growth of women’s football. For example, Procter & Gamble donated $529K to further bridge the gender pay gap in U.S soccer. Other countries like France and the Netherlands have heeded the call for inclusion in sports and have made substantial investments in their local leagues.

 The investment in local leagues explains why the USWNT did not cruise through the tournament but faced fierce competition from Spain, England and France. Even Alex Morgan attested to the competitive nature of the 2019 finals by stating that “I think during the tournament it’s more emotionally exhausting. After, we are actually so sleep deprived — like it’s physically exhausting.” That exhaustion was a sign of how hard that win must have come for the US because other teams were equally determined to win the championship too.

Amandine Henry of France celebrates her team's second goal with team mates during the 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup France Round Of 16 match between France and Brazil at Stade Oceane on June 23, 2019 in Le Havre, France.

(June 22, 2019 - Source: Getty Images Europe)

 Even the progress of the African teams that were at the tournament highlighted the bigger conversation about the growing and maturing nature of the women’s game across the world. For the first time in history, two African teams, namely Cameroon and Nigeria, advanced to the knockout stages. The only team that could understandably not advance were debutants, South Africa. The improvement can also be accorded to the fact that African players are now able to play in other leagues outside of Africa. For example, Thembi Kgatlana plays for Beijing BG Phoenix F.C. in the Chinese Women's Super League while Asisat Oshoala is blessing Barcelona Femmine with her presence. Such exposure gives them a feel of how the game is played on other sides of the world way before they go to international tournaments like the World Cup. In our past article, we gave a detailed analysis of how impressively unbeatable Lyon has become. Since it is an international club with players from diverse nationalities, their spirit, drive and energy is able to spread across to other countries as well.

 The world has also been impressed by players such as Thembi Kgatlana who was named the 2018 CAF’s Footballer of the Year and Hegerberg who has gone to be the first woman to win the Ballon d’Or. More notably, there is also a rise in the quality of coaches who offer technical support to their teams. Some legends have returned through their teams today. For example, former Manchester United legend Phil Neville is now managing England.

Alex Morgan of the USA is challenged by Lucy Bronze, Jade Moore and Nikita Parris of England during the 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup France Semi Final match between England and USA at Stade de Lyon on July 02, 2019 in Lyon, France.

(July 1, 2019 - Source: Getty Images Europe

 Why USWNT’s win is important for women’s football

One thing we have gotten used to is the influence of the U.S. on the affairs of other countries. If the idea of equal attention, pay and investment in sports is successful in the U.S., it can then trickle down to other countries. Their win has brought even more attention to this crucial conversation in society and given the champions and the rest of the world, more evidence to further their cause. Other prominent figures like Megan Rapinoe who got both the Golden Ball award as the World Cup’s best player and the Golden Boot as its leading scorer have grabbed the attention of President Trump who was quoted saying, “the conversation is no longer about should we have equal pay, or should we be supporting women. It’s how do we support not only athletes but women in general.” The involvement of newspapers and cash donations from companies like Secret Deodorant have also given this discourse more positive attention.

 Conclusion

We can never congratulate the USNWT team enough, not just for the win but the consistent excellence. It has helped the rest of us recognize and appreciate the true meaning of commitment and being deliberate about setting ourselves up for success. We have seen that the U.S. win does not begin every 4 years but generations before. Beyond the championship, it is also important to recognize the contribution of such performances to the more crucial conversation about women in sports, inclusion and equal remuneration.

2019 WWC Review: After all the African teams failed to make it past the Round of 16, What’s next for the game in Africa?

With the 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup now in the books, it's time to reflect on what an amazing month of soccer it was, precisely for Africa. This year’s World Cup, saw two of Africa’s three representatives reaching the round of 16. Below we breakdown the happenings of the tournament with a focused attention on the African teams; Nigeria, Cameroon and South Africa as well as the future of the sport on the continent moving forward.

“Further to this, according to Yasmine Arkoub, co-founder of sports consulting firm, Melting Sports, there are also plans to launch an African Women’s Champions League. Additionally, former Nigerian player Yusuf-Aromire has also launched the SheFootball Initiative to encourage young Nigerian girls to get on the pitch.”

— Siphosethu Thwala, FirstTouch Africa

Claudia Goette of Leverkusen challenges Amanda Dlamini of South Africa 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)

AFRICA’S 2019 WORLD CUP EXPLOITS SUMMARISED

Nigeria

Nearly knocked out of the group stages as a result of a controversial VAR decision, the Nigerian Super Falcons had a decent world cup performance as they managed to reach the round of 16. While they were knocked out by two time champions, Germany, the West African team did meet their primary objective of at least qualifying for the knockout stages. Thus, the team will look to build on from this in preparation for future tournaments and ultimately the 2023 World Cup. What is more, coach Thomas Dennerby looks to have unearthed some young players who could be long term foundations of the squad.

Cameroon

Cameroon qualified for the round of 16 after beating New Zealand 2-1 in their final group match. A big letdown for the Cameroonians was their failure to be clinical in front of goal throughout the tournament. The Indomitable Lionesses were very creative and threatening going forward but a bit less cohesive defensively. In their last time out, Cameroon lost 3-0 to England in a match that was characterised by intense physicality and various controversial VAR decisions. One may not be faulted for believing that the less sportive behavior displayed by the Cameroon team during their match against England marred their never say die attitude which had helped them reach the round of 16. The players refused to restart the game after England had scored a goal awarded by a controversial VAR decision, causing a conundrum on the field of play in an unbearable sight for football fans.

South Africa

To whom much is given much is expected, says an old adage. After a stellar showing at the 2018 Women’s AFCON tournament last year where they reached the finals, much was expected from the South African women’s team. The 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup was Banyana Banyana’s first ever appearance at that stage. The team lost all three matches though they did manage to salvage some pride by scoring a consolation goal courtesy of star player Thembi Kgatlana in their 3-1 loss against Spain. Nevertheless, perhaps some positives can be taken from Banyana’s world cup journey. Their ability to reach the tournament for the first time is something not to be taken lightly. Furthermore, the team has been able to blend in experience and youth that has come up the ranks, and as such, by the time the next world cup tournament arrives, a majority of the team’s youngsters would have reached their peak and will be ready to be more competitive.

Cameroon line up during the Women's Football first round Group E Match of the London 2012 Olympic Games between Cameroon and Brazil at Millennium Stadium on July 25, 2012 in Cardiff, Wales.

(July 24, 2012 - Source: Julian Finney/Getty Images Europe)

THERE ARE OTHERS

While the above teams have exerted their place as the leading women’s football nations from the continent, there are other teams that are closely behind them that may rise in the near future. These include Mali, Zimbabwe and Zambia. The Mighty Warriors were the first Zimbabwean national football team to make it to a global event after qualifying for the 2016 Olympic Games in Brazil. Previously, Zimbabwe had qualified for the Women's Africa Cup of Nations three times and their best performance was a fourth place finish at the 2000 edition held in Nigeria. Moreover, the upcoming COSAFA Cup will be an opportunity for the Mighty Warriors to redeem themselves and show their competence especially after failing to book a place at the Africa Women's Cup of Nations (AWCON) last year.

SOME CHALLENGES THAT NEED TO BE ADDRESSED IN THE WOMEN’S GAME

It must be pointed out that African national teams (both women and men) still have a long way to go if they are to succeed in major tournaments such as the Men and Women’s FIFA World Cup. Prominent even today, stories of pay disputes between players and the football governing body remain poisonous to the development of the sport and if left unaddressed, will continue to be a problem. Such disputes have reared their ugly heads as a result of the corruption and general mismanagement that plagues high-level football across Africa. Despite being home to large throngs of football lovers and also some of the world’s best players, football federations across the continent are engulfed by cancerous maladministration which creates a lot of problems that ultimately force players to take extreme measures in an effort to get their payments. Noteworthy examples that come to mind include the issues faced by the Nigerian women’s team after beating Cameroon 5-0 to win the AWCON back in 2004. The Nigerian federation refused to pay players their bonuses and pending allowances as the federation claimed there was no money. The players eventually got their dues after continued pressure from both players and the media. Fast forward to 2019, the same issue arose at the end of their world cup journey.  It was reported that the Super Falcons refused to return home unless they were paid. Therefore, the absence of proper structures to deal with such problems will continue to result in unrest and lack of optimal performances from national team players.

Renata Costa of Brazil scores a header during the Women's Football first round Group E Match of the London 2012 Olympic Games between Cameroon and Brazil at Millennium Stadium on July 25, 2012 in Cardiff, Wales.

(July 24, 2012 - Source: Julian Finney/Getty Images Europe)

A GLOBAL VIEW

In the same vein, another predominant issue not only in African women’s football but globally as well, has been the issue of unequal pay between the men’s and the women’s teams. It was reported that Banyana Banyana, South Africa women’s team, were paid 10 times less than Bafana Bafana, the men’s team. As such, this damning discovery resulted in the South African Football Association (SAFA) taking action to rectify this. To this end, in May 2019, SAFA increased Banyana's pay and made it equivalent to their male counterparts in a move that was welcomed by many South African football lovers. It was also reported that Nigeria too, has recently taken steps to correct the wage disparity between male and female players. The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) told CNN it conducted a pay review in 2017 resulting in basic match bonuses for the Super Falcons being raised to $3,000 per player, while the basic bonus for the men's team was reduced from $10,000 to $5,000 per player. According to Samuel Ahmadu, a member of the women's committee for the NFF, the enormous pay gap in the African game can partly be attributed to poor handling of female football teams by their sports associations.

INFRASTRUCTURE & REASONS TO BE HOPEFUL

Despite the difficulties faced by many female players on the continent, there are signs of hope for the women's game. The Confederation of African Football (CAF), has been making bold steps towards investing in women's football. In 2018, the CAF President in a speech at the CAF women's football symposium alluded that the organization would prioritize women's competitions and support local federations in managing women's teams. Further to this, according to Yasmine Arkoub, co-founder of sports consulting firm, Melting Sports, there are also plans to launch an African Women's Champions League. Additionally, former Nigerian player Yusuf-Aromire has also launched the SheFootball Initiative to encourage young Nigerian girls to get on the pitch. The Super Falcons legend offers training for girls and provides football kits for those who can't afford them. "There are a million girls out there who want to play football but are not being encouraged. They just need the support and access to opportunities," she said.

Worth noting is that many African players have been travelling overseas in search for better opportunities to develop their football talents and advance their careers, yet the national teams have found themselves unable to shine on the global stage and many nations are still without a professional league. It is said that out of the 54 national associations in Africa, 25 countries currently have a women’s league with only four boasting well-organized and quality competitions, namely Nigeria, Ghana, Cameroon and South Africa. As a result, the insignificant number of leagues on the continent hinders many players’ abilities to compete at the highest level consistently, both at national and club level.

“Fast forward to 2019, the same issue arose at the end of their world cup journey.  It was reported that the Super Falcons refused to return home unless they were paid. Therefore, the absence of proper structures to deal with such problems will continue to result in unrest and lack of optimal performances from national team players.”

— Siphosethu Thwala, FirstTouch Africa

Asisat Oshoala #8 of Nigeria reacts after scoring the second goal against Sweden 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)

Considering all else, there is a long way to go for African football, and the following are some of the action points that I believe need to be addressed by relevant stakeholders in order to improve the sport. Firstly, football associations should make it a priority to source for more sustainable sponsorship for national women’s leagues. This will help in not only having enough prize money for the leagues, but it will also help in attracting local players to remain in the continent as a result of increased competitiveness in the domestic leagues, as well as increasing awareness and abolishing stigma surrounding women’s football which can ultimately draw more sponsors. Additionally, more partnerships between countries should be formed to fast-track the development of players. For instance, one notable initiative in this regard has been the partnership between SAFA and the Spanish La Liga which has seen the League commit to sponsoring the South African Under-17 women’s national team’s (Bantwana) trip to Spain to play two important friendly matches against select sides from La Liga’s national women’s league. SAFA’s representative remarked, “we have received balls to give to our provinces from La Liga, they have sent us La Liga qualified coaches to train our local coaches and have been heavily involved in initiatives with our regions and provinces to develop the sport at grassroots level.”

More of such partnerships are needed across the continent if women’s football in Africa is to rise to the level it belongs.

Top Five U-23 Players at the 2019 AFCON

The 2019 African Cup of Nations in Egypt is about to start and true football fans will be glued on the edge of their seats when the spectacle arrives. There are many national teams that will be looking forward to having a great campaign. Like any other football tournament, we are hoping that another underdog will rise from the ashes and prove a stubborn team to beat for the giants or popular teams which include Nigeria, Ivory Coast, Cameroon, Egypt, Morocco, etc. Before that happens, you need to take note of a few individuals that have been doing very well for themselves. The following is a list of U-23 players that you should look out for in the upcoming tournament.

Andre Onana of Ajax celebrates after Noussair Mazraoui of Ajax (not pictured) scores his team's first goal during the Group E match of the UEFA Champions League between Ajax and SL Benfica at Johan Cruyff Arena on October 23, 2018 in Amsterdam, Netherlands.

(Oct. 22, 2018 - Source: Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images Europe)

Andre Onana (Cameroon)

Just as Liverpool celebrate their conquest in Europe, another Dutch club left the UEFA Champions League tournament with their chests held high. Ajax Amsterdam is the team in question. The surprise of the season. The youngsters who eliminated defending champions Real Madrid and a Ronaldo-inspired Juventus. In between the sticks was our very own Cameroonian international, Andre Onana. The 23-year old led his team from the back with the protection from Matthijs de Ligt who has since been rumored with a move to Barcelona. Onana himself was an impenetrable shield that only shipped in 34 goals in their 2018/19 Eredivisie title-winning campaign. Undeniably, the experience of playing in competitive leagues raises expectations on the youngster making him one of the players to watch in this upcoming 2019 African Cup of Nations finals in Egypt.

Prior international experience? Of course. Andre Onana is not only a capped Cameroon international but also an indispensable player in their goalkeeping position. Onana was first capped in 2016 but made a controversial decision to turn down the opportunity to represent his nation at the 2017 AFCON Gabon. His reason was logical. He wanted to cement his position in the Ajax team after Jasper Cillessen left for Barcelona. That decision has paid dividends as he is now among the best young goalkeepers in Europe. At what cost though? His decision to stay back meant that he had to miss out on his nation’s victory as they lifted the 2017 African Cup of Nations trophy after beating Egypt 2-1 on the 5th of February, 2017. However, he has an opportunity to redeem himself at the big stage and prove his worth to his nation.

Managing expectations is something that Andre Onana is going to have to deal with. Having led his club Ajax to the semi-finals of the 2018/19 UEFA Champions League, reaching the semi-finals of the AFCON tournament would be the bare minimum expected of him. Onana has already set the bar so high in Europe which has seen him mooted to be on the transfer wish list of German Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich. A player of his quality would bring much-needed competition to Germany international Manuel Neuer who has since lost his crown as the best goalkeeper in the world and has dipped in form of late.

“ To be fair, Iwobi was still discovering his best position on the pitch back then. Since his much-improved campaign with Arsenal this season, it is clear that Iwobi is a left winger equipped with dribbling abilities and the strength of a true West-African raised by fufu and garri. ”

— Tinotenda Magiya, FirstTouch Africa

Achraf Hakimi of Morocco looks on during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group B match between Morocco and Iran at Saint Petersburg Stadium on June 15, 2018 in Saint Petersburg, Russia.

(June 14, 2018 - Source: Alex Livesey/Getty Images Europe)

 Achraf Hakimi (Morocco)

 A no-brainer really. The Spanish born Moroccan was part of the Borussia Dortmund team that gave Bayern Munich a run for their money. The BVB club was as closest as they have been in 7 seasons to win the German Bundesliga trophy as they finished just two points behind the dominant Bayern Munich team. The African defender who was on-loan from Real Madrid managed a total of 7 assists and 2 goals in 23 starts. His attacking creativity on the overlap gave manager Lucien Favre a headache on who to start between the Moroccan and the experienced Marcel Schmelzer. Nonetheless, Hakimi enjoyed his time at the German club as he bagged a decent amount of game time at a top club that also guaranteed him UEFA Champions League football. Of his primary role, Achraf Hakimi averaged 1.6 tackles, 1.4 interceptions and 1.8 clearances in the defensive phase. His consistency reminded Real Madrid once again that in him, they have a young player capable of taking over the reins in the left-back position after Marcelo.

Let’s talk about his experience at the international scene. Hakimi was one of the breakout stars for the Morocco national team that participated in the 2018 FIFA World Cup finals in Russia. Hakimi’s Morocco was placed in the group of death that included European giants Spain and Portugal. On paper, there was no chance really but still, Morocco turned in some amazing performances with the young defender protecting the back-line on the left flank. His defensive contribution stood out in the 3 matches played in the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group stages where he averaged at least 3 tackles per match. The opponents were too offensive but Hakimi was up for the task to get his hands dirty and help out the center-back pairing. It is quite unfortunate that Morocco could not qualify to the knockout stages of the competition but the experience for the Madridista was priceless. It means that Achraf Hakimi goes into the AFCON commencing on the 22nd of June, 2019 as an experienced FIFA World Cup player and a hungry defender ready to prove himself on Africa’s biggest stage.

To be honest, there is not much pressure on Hakimi to have an outstanding tournament because there are not many expectations on the Moroccan team to go all the way and win it.  This means that Hakimi can play freely and show his quality again in an environment similar to that of Dortmund where he joined a team with huge potential but fewer expectations. In terms of transfer rumors, Hakimi has hardly been linked with a move away from the Bernabeu partly because of the hefty fee that it would require for clubs to pry him away from the Spanish club. This means that Borussia Dortmund will retain the player’s services once more for another season on-loan. It is just a matter of time before the youngster starts knocking the doors hard enough for the Los Blancos to listen and realize the potential star he could become if given the opportunity at the highest level.

“Managing expectations is something that Andre Onana is going to have to deal with. Having led his club Ajax to the semi-finals of the 2018/19 UEFA Champions League, reaching the semi-finals of the AFCON tournament would be the bare minimum expected of him. ”

— Tinotenda Magiya, FirstTouch Africa

Franck Kessie of AC Milan walks on pitch prior to the Italian Supercup match between Juventus and AC Milan at King Abdullah Sports City on January 16, 2019 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

(Jan. 15, 2019 - Source: Claudio Villa/Getty Images Europe)

Franck Kessie (Ivory Coast)

One of the most profiled players prior to the start of various tournaments, Franck Kessie is a player on the rise. Having cemented his position as the defensive midfielder for AC Milan not so long ago, the 22-year-old Ivorian is a player much respected in the Italian Serie A. As established, Kessie is a non-conventional holding midfielder who has the pace and power to offer more on the other end of the pitch.  In the defensive phase, he chips in with an average of 1.2 odd tackles per match, breaking up the play for the opponents. He also registers at least 1.5 clearances in each match guaranteeing some relief to the defenders in the heat of the moment. Kessie is also a player hungry for attack and does just fine in front of goal having scored 7 goals and assisted 2 in his 34 appearances in the Italian Serie A fixtures. To me, he resembles French World Cup winner Paul Pogba who has the same attributes and is unpredictable in the 90.

 Kessie also has experience at the national level. He has since represented Ivory Coast from the youth level up to the senior team. Kessie played at the U-17 and U-20 level before representing Les Éléphants 26-times. He, however, is yet to register his first goal for his national team which will be something that will be on the back of his mind coming into this 2019 African Cup of Nations group stages. The dynamic midfielder is also looking to use this opportunity to showcase his talent amongst Africa’s finest. The likes of Mo Salah, Sadio Mane, Hakim Ziyech, Percy Tau, Khama Billiat, and Wilfried Zaha will all be participating in this competition and it would be interesting to see where the midfielder will be ranked as soon as the tournament closes in July.

 The international transfer window officially opens on the 11th of June, 2019 and it would be a surprise to not hear speculations about Franck Kessie’s possible destinations. A player of his caliber is something that many teams in Europe are missing. With the aging Nemanja Matic at Manchester United, Kessie would provide a more sustainable and competent partner to the free-spirited Paul Pogba. At Manchester City, Pep Guardiola is on the hunt for that player that can replace Fernandinho and who else could do the dirty work as well as intelligently offer support with the late runs into the box than the Ivorian. The list goes on. It will be interesting to see who will eventually get to acquire his services for they do not come cheap. Could this tournament be the key for Kessie to join one of the most prestigious clubs in Europe?

Alexander Iwobi of Nigeria pictured ahead of the International Friendly match between Nigeria and Serbia at The Hive on March 27, 2018 in Barnet, England.

(March 26, 2018 - Source: Matthew Lewis/Getty Images Europe)

 Alexander Chuka Iwobi (Nigeria)

 Alex Iwobi has had by far his best season in an Arsenal shirt this past 2018/19 season. The arrival of a tactical coach in Unai Emery as the Head Coach at the club meant that more playing time was going to be awarded to the Nigerian international from the wide channels. Alex Iwobi made 46 appearances this season scoring 5 goals and assisting 8 times. The Nigerian had been receiving some smack from the Gunners faithful who demanded more end-product in the final third of the pitch and the Haile End Academy graduate came up with the goods this season. Iwobi was a constant threat for Arsenal, especially when partnered with the Bosnian tank, Sead Kolasinac. The Nigerian’s link-up play brought out the best in the left-back who created many goal-scoring opportunities for Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Alexandre Lacazette. His improvement this season is typified by his last goal for Arsenal in their 2018/19 UEFA Europa League final match against Chelsea when he scored the consolation goal for Arsenal on a half-volley from the edge of the box. There is more to come from Chuka.

Iwobinho is a regular international ever since he switched his allegiance to Nigeria. However, the player has been limited to a bit-part playing role in the Super Eagles team. This was seen in the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia where the young midfielder started only one match and made 2 second-half cameos in the last two matches. To be fair, Iwobi was still discovering his best position on the pitch back then. Since his much-improved campaign with Arsenal this season, it is clear that Iwobi is a left winger equipped with dribbling abilities and the strength of a true West-African raised by fufu and garri. Super Eagles coach, Gernot Rohr, must have the 23-year old in his plans if the Nigerian national team is to challenge for the AFCON title. His experience at the club level and the maturity hitting at the right time could provide the juju for Nigeria in Egypt this month. I think Iwobi will be one of the standout performers of the tournament.

Apart from that, there had been rumors about the player’s exit from the Emirates Stadium. Many Arsenal fans had called for his head in Arsene Wenger’s final season as the Arsenal manager. However, his commitment and work rate convinced enough of those critiques that he has a lot more to offer. Now, both the club and the player are convinced of the marriage and are looking forward to what the future holds for them under a new manager. If there is a club that is to come calling for his services, Arsenal is surely going to quote a fee in the region of $35 million which would not be surprising in this inflated market.

 Samuel Chukwueze (Nigeria)

 A newcomer to this list of U-23 African sensations plying their trade in Europe. Samuel Chukwueze made a name for himself this season when his team Villareal faced Real Madrid in La Liga on match day 18. Chukwueze produced a master class in an encounter against the former UEFA Champions League defending team and ensured that the yellow submarines shared spoils with the Los Blancos. His style of play is something to reckon. Dennis Takaendesa said, “When one receives the ball on the flank, gets enough time to switch it to his favored left foot, goes at Marcelo, drops a shoulder to call in Casemiro to assist his compatriot, before Toni Kroos and Sergio Ramos are required to put out the fire - you know what’s up.” The 20-year-old winger managed a total of 8 goals across all competitions and provided 3 assists in 25 starts. Samuel Chukwueze will be looking to grab the chance to play for Nigeria at the tournament commencing on the 22nd of June.

“Going into this tournament, he has not much experience playing for the national team having only made one appearance thus far, but do not be fooled by that fact because Chukwueze is a boy with the right arrogance on the football pitch. His confidence to take on defenders with his much-favored left foot will surely remind you of the Bayern Munich legend Arjen Robben who recently left the club for greener pastures.”

— Tinotenda Magiya, FirstTouch Africa

Chukwueze was among the shocking omissions from the Super Eagles team in the previous international friendlies. The Nigerian coach, Gernot Rohr went for other wingers including Samuel Kalu, Alex Iwobi, Ahmed Musa and Henry Onyekuru because they were in better form than the youngster. However, Chukwu has been handed a rare opportunity to showcase his talent in front of the whole continent of Africa and football lovers from across the globe at this year’s African Cup of Nations finals. Going into this tournament, he has not much experience playing for the national team having only made one appearance thus far, but, do not be fooled by that fact because Chukwueze is a boy with the right arrogance on the football pitch. His confidence to take on defenders with his much-favored left foot will surely remind you of the Bayern Munich legend Arjen Robben who recently left the club for greener pastures. Will the youngster grab his opportunity when it is handed to him?

 I am more certain about the speculations that are going to sky-rocket from this point onward. Samuel Chukwueze is a winger, a position especially for a club like Arsenal. The prospect of joining fellow Nigerian Alex Iwobi at the Emirates and bombing the flanks, mirroring the performances of Robben and Ribery at Bayern would be a pleasant sight for the Arsenal fans. Chukwueze’s flair means that he will continue to be linked with bigger clubs who are in need of the kind of a player that hugs the touchline and gets past defenders in the tightest of spaces. I would not be surprised if a big move actually materializes in the aftermath of this tournament because Samuel Chukwueze has the raw talent that we have seen in other English players like Callum Hudson-Odoi.

Who are the underdogs who could shock the world?

UNDERDOG IN THE AFRICAN CUP OF NATIONS CONTEXT

The term underdog largely refers to the least likely team to achieve a certain feat. In as much as this is similarly true for Africa when it comes to the biennial AFCON tourney, there’s a small tweak to it. We have seen it over and over again. It’s fair to say that there may be underdogs on paper but when that whistle blows, nobody cares about the name of the nation or the names borne on the team shirts.

The holders of the AFCON gold were somehow minnows heading into the 2017 tournament, with the youngest squad and a few of their star players opting not to turn up for the Gabon finals. But against all odds, the Indomitable Lions of Cameroon went all the way to the podium, eliminating Sadio Mane’s Senegal and denying record winners Egypt an eighth title in the final. How about Zambia’s 2012 title triumph or Burkina Faso’s dominating display and final appearance in 2015, who saw all that coming? Not many did.

In the same spirit, let’s be not be caught by surprise and practice a bit of forward thinking by exploring the position of a few other sides who hardly make the favorites conversation but are very much capable of becoming Africa’s top side when that final whistle is blown on the 22nd of July 2019.

Gilles Binya of Cameroon and Oussama Darragi of Tunisia in action during the Africa Cup of Nations Group D match between Cameroon and Tunisia from the Alto da Chela Stadium on January 21, 2010 in Lubango, Angola. ((Photo by Lefty Shivambu/Gallo Images) / Getty Images)(Jan. 20, 2010 - Source: Gallo Images/Getty Images Europe)

CAMEROON

Overview

Hard as it may be to believe, the champions aren’t really favorites heading into the 2019 Egypt finals. They were underdogs in 2017 and won, but are still pretty much an average side in comparison to the likes of Morocco, Nigeria, Senegal, Egypt and Ivory Coast. This assessment is not based on their flamboyant history that includes the most FIFA World Cup appearances by an African nation, being the second most successful team in AFCON history with 5 titles, only two behind Egypt; a 2000 Olympic gold medal win, the controversies of sleeveless shirts or heroism of the likes of the late Marc Vivien Foe. It’s solely based on form and theirs has not been among the most impressive.

Cameroon enter their first major tournament under the guidance of the celebrated Clarence Seerdorf. They could have benefited from a massive home advantage, if their 2019 hosting rights weren’t transferred to the Egyptians because of ill-preparedness and safety concerns prevailing in the Central African nation. The Indomitable Lions still managed to secure second place behind Morocco despite a far from convincing campaign in a group that also featured lowly ranked Comoros and Malawi. Most concerning, was their overall tally of 6 goals during the qualifiers, as many as those scored by Burundi’s Fiston Abdul Razak. That and more constitute the reasons why many aren’t vouching for Cameroon and their more pragmatic fans will surely be cautious not to raise their hopes up.

However, just because they are probably retaining most of the players that won the AFCON title in 2017, bringing with them the experience of winning as well as the opportunity to enter as a mid-tier team, it’s not impossible that the Indomitable Lions could slip under the radar and retain the championship. Even more, they arguably don’t have as much pressure as the likes of Egypt, Morocco or Ghana to win, seeing they have done their fans well in recent times. Further validating their chances, it helps to look at their most inform players and explore the possibility of them channeling the same energy to the rest of the squad.

The most in-form players

Quite honestly, they haven’t had a lot of exciting players in the just ended 2018/19 campaign, which is not a rare feature of underdogs. The 6 goals scored and 3 conceded in the AFCON qualifiers tells you why this is so. The 2017 final match-winner and FC Porto forward Vincent Aboubakar was injured for the majority of the season, Zambo Anguissa and his Fulham side were relegated from the Premier League while left-back Gaetan Bong survived the scare of relegation with his naïve Brighton & Hove Albion side. Veteran forward, Chopou Moting warmed PSG’s bench as his Ligue 1 side completed an average season. Only 23-year-old goalkeeper, Andre Onana had a somewhat spectacular season with Ajax who missed out on the Champions League final by a whisker. It’s not however a guarantee that Seerdorf will start the youngster ahead of the vastly experienced Carlos Kameni or Fabrice Ondoa.

Possible surprise stars

Three names stand out, the 23-year-old forward Christian Bassogog who plies his trade in the Chinese Super League, 25-year-old Marseille striker in Clinton N’jie and the 23-year-old Mainz 05 midfielder, Pierre Kunde.

Riyad Mahrez of Algeria holds off a challenge by Daniel Van Buyten of Belgium during the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil Group H match between Belgium and Algeria at Estadio Mineirao on June 17, 2014 in Belo Horizonte, Brazil.

(June 16, 2014 - Source: Jeff Gross/Getty Images South America)

 ALGERIA

Overview

The Desert Foxes may be the side that have a lot of players with more to lose, but still remain as an underdog. The North Africans have played some of the most entertaining football on the continent over the years, which makes it hard to believe that they only have 1 AFCON title to show for it, which came in 1990. Most memorable to many, they made the continent proud by proving to be a hard nut to crack in the 2014 FIFA World Cup Round of 16, losing to eventual champions Germany in extra-time after a fiercely contested goalless 90 minutes.

They have been however perhaps the most disappointing on the continental stage in recent times, with their best finish being a 4th place finish in the AFCON finals since their triumph in 1990. The Fennecs usually dominate possession, blow teams away in the early stages but falter towards the finish line. Algerian fans have waited long enough and given the opportunity of being pitted against Senegal and lowly ranked Kenya and Tanzania in Group C of the finals, they have a chance to slip under the radar with ease towards the AFCON gold.

The most in-form players

Amongst the 24-finalists, arguably no team has better depth than the Desert Foxes. Even better, their top guys finished the 2018/19 in sizzling form, something we have seen over the years but hoping it would translate to some silverware this time around. Riyad Mahrez scored a magical goal in Manchester City’s Premier League title win against Brighton on final day while Yacine Brahimi continued to be the mastermind in FC Porto’s midfield, helping the Portuguese side to reach the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals. Long-time servant and tricky winger, Sofiane Feghouli who is in the books of Galatasaray remains available, MLS based Saphir Taider has been decent and perhaps the man of the moment, Baghdad Bounedjah. The 27-year-old may not be a household name but his 3 goals during the qualifiers and 39 league goals in 22 outings for Qatar Stars League’s Al Sadd SC are a testimony that he will hurt goalkeepers and defenders alike.

Possible surprise stars

The 23-year-old highly rated defender, Youcef Atal who plays for Ligue 1’s OGC Nice is expected to increase his stock and 21-year-old Arsenal Academy Graduate and Empoli midfielder, Ismael Bennacer could find himself winning a major transfer deal if he remains consistent.

TUNISIA

Tunisia pose prior to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group G match between Panama and Tunisia at Mordovia Arena on June 28, 2018 in Saransk, Russia.

(June 27, 2018 - Source: Shaun Botterill/Getty Images Europe)

Overview

If you consider Egypt to be favorites, Tunisia are pretty much in that fold even though they may be skipped in the conversations. The two North African nations made a show of their opponents in the qualifiers, winning pretty much all their matches against Niger and eSwatini, with less-respectful score-lines. Their only loses were against each other. The Carthage Eagles finished top of the group ahead of the hosting Pharaohs as the latter dropped points in a drawn match. Tunisia are one of the highly ranked teams in the tournament, sitting in 28th place on the FIFA rankings as of 4 April 2019. Even though they have one AFCON title to show for their consistence, they remain one of the most respected, least spoken of but dangerous opponent on the continent. Just one year ago at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, they bowed out with their heads held high in the group stages after succumbing to 2-1 and 5-2 losses to eventual 4th place and 3rd place finishers in England and Belgium respectively. They didn’t leave Russia without a win of their own as they saw off debutants Panama, 2-1 after falling behind in the first half. After failing to progress past the quarter-final stage in the AFCON finals since their triumph on home soil in 2004, fans of the Carthage Eagles are eager to see their consistent performers break the duck and win some deserved AFCON gold.

Wahbi Khazri of Tunisia celebrates with teammate Fakhreddine Ben Youssef after scoring his team's second goal during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group G match between Panama and Tunisia at Mordovia Arena on June 28, 2018 in Saransk, Russia.

(June 27, 2018 - Source: Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images Europe)

The most in-form players

Many are, but captain and the highest scoring Tunisian of this generation, Wahbi Khazri tops the list. The complete forward was in sumptuous form for St. Etienne as the Ligue 1 side narrowly missed out on the Champions League places. The 28-year-old carried forward his 2018 FIFA World Cup scoring form by banging in 13 leagues goals and 6 assists to help his French club to finish 4th. Many lovers of football will also be delighted to hear that the highly rated Youssef Mskani will likely appear for the Carthage Eagles and so will the diminutive and extremely talented attacker, 26-year-old Naiim Sliti

Possible surprise stars

If time and chance has its way, 24-year-old Montpellier midfielder, Ellyes Skhiri could finally enjoy a major breakout campaign and attract some coveted suitors. Another exciting youngster coming up the ranks is 23-year-old Dylan Bronn who plays for Belgian side, Genk. At that tender age, Bronn already had 10 caps to his name, his stock will only rise going forward.

Boosted by Tunisian club, Esperance de Tunis’ retaining of the CAF Champions League, coach Alain Giresse will generally be spoiled for choice and the North African nation will be on song to try and grab the AFCON gold that has been out of their grasp since 2004.

“The Indomitable Lions still managed to secure second place behind Morocco despite a far from convincing campaign in a group that also featured lowly ranked Comoros and Malawi. Most concerning, was their overall tally of 6 goals during the qualifiers, as many as those scored by Burundi’s Fiston Abdul Razak. ”

— Dennis Takaendesa, FirstTouch Africa

SOUTH AFRICA

Overview

They haven’t had a lot go their way since 1996 when they clinched their first and only Africa Cup of Nations on home soil. Being one of the oldest African teams, having played their first match in 1924, South Africans could probably feel the wait for some consistent major tournament success has been longer than most. Since 2000, Bafana have either failed to qualify for AFCON finals or qualify but go as far as the quarter-finals, even when they hosted the tournament back in 2013.

In many ways, their football structure is more or less like that of England. They have the best football league on the continent, the Absa Premiership, and most of their players are home grown. Over the years, Bafana hasn’t had the best of talent come through their ranks, but their consistence and persistence in building the local league structures could pay dividends sooner rather than later. Just as England almost brought it home in the 2018 World Cup, boosted by efforts of the English Premier League.

Stuart Baxter’s men are in the so called group of death with favorites Ivory Coast, Morocco and Namibia but it’s pretty much non-fictitious that they can cause problems for any opponent. With a fascinating short pass attacking style of play, Bafana finished off the qualifiers as one of the five unbeaten teams, even shooting down the Super Eagles of Nigeria in their own backyard. They are one of the dark-horses and could once again feel the weight of AFCON glory.

South Africa's Sundowns striker Percy Tau vies with Tunisia's Esperance of Tunis defender Ali Machani (L) during the African Champions League (CAF) group stage football match on June 22, 2017 in olympic Rades Stadium near Tunis. / AFP PHOTO / SALAH HABIBI

(June 20, 2017 - Source: AFP)

The most in-form players

Arguably the best footballer on the continent right now is in their ranks. Percy Muzi Tau has been nothing short of a revelation for Bafana as he added to his accolade filled 2017/18 season with a stellar 2018/19 campaign in Belgium that saw him win the player of the season award, as he was on loan from Premier League side Brighton. The 2018/19 Absa Premiership Player of the season, Thembinkosi Lorch will be expected to partner with Tau upfront together with 23-year-old Ligue 1 based, Lebo Mothiba.

All of these bright and young stars combined with the experience of Hlompo Kekana and Thulani Hlatshwayo; Bafana presents a formidable force to challenge for the title.

Possible surprise stars

Two of the rising stars that are keeping people on their toes are 24-year-old forward Lebohang Maboe and 23-year-old midfielder in Aubrey Modiba, both of whom are currently plying their trade in the Absa Premiership. Should Stuart Baxter give them more chances, there’s no telling how further they could go.

Group D, the “Group of Death” - Namibia, South Africa, Ivory Coast, Morocco

Dubbed “the group of death,” group D of AFCON 2019 is arguably the toughest one of the eight determined by CAF in April. Three teams, Morocco, South Africa and Ivory Coast, have the potential to make it to the round of 16. Namibia also makes their appearance in the group of death after qualifying for the showpiece, for the first time since 2008. South Africa make an AFCON comeback after failing to book a spot in the 2017 edition and also making his anticipated entry in group D is Africa’s favourite Frenchman, Morocco’s current coach Herve Renard. The gaffer has coached 5 African national teams, leading two of them to AFCON titles including including Ivory Coast who will go head to head against Morocco.

Herve Renard, Head coach of Morocco consoles Faycal Fajr of Morocco who looks dejected following his sides defeat, meaning his team are knocked out of the World Cup after the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group B match between Portugal and Morocco at Luzhniki Stadium on June 20, 2018 in Moscow, Russia.

(June 19, 2018 - Source: Michael Steele/Getty Images Europe)

The Elephants of Ivory Coast

Anchored by the talent pool of local based players, two-time AFCON champions Ivory Coast have more than fair odds of progressing to the knock out stage. Ivory Coast is synonymous for grooming world class players; this year is no different with a roster of experienced and highly skilled players.  The forward trio of Cornet, Zaha and Nicolas Pepe make up a must see combination that will likely give defenders a run for their money. The Elephants’ young talent represented by Pepe, Ibrahim Sangaré and ASEC defender Wonlo Coulibaly is exciting to watch and will usher in the new generation of household names to continue the legacy of the Ivorian greats. Ivory Coast generally has an advantage ​when it comes to the attacking part of play​.

Eric Bailly's injury is a bit of a knock for the Elephants on the backline but despite this setback; the Elephants still have Wonlo Coulibaly and Tottenham defender, Serge Aurier.  

South Africa’s Bafana Bafana

Bafana is hoping to make a strong come back to Africa’s biggest tournament after missing out in 2017. After qualifying alongside Nigeria in Group E, unbeaten if I may add, the Southern African giants are in form. Stuart Baxter has named a provisional 30-man squad where he chose to take the mostly young talent from the local ABSA Premier League to Egypt. ​Percy Tau​ is one of the biggest names on the team and Bafana’s star player. Missing from the squad is veteran goalkeeper Itumeleng Kune due to an injury, making the first choice for the goalkeeper a toss-up between Wits United goalie Darren Keet, Ronwen Williams of SuperSport and Kaizer Chiefs’ Bruce Bvuma.  

The Atlas Lions from Morocco

After making their world cup campaign where they ​exited in the group stages​, Morocco will attempt glory at the continental stage which they last tested in 1976. The Atlas Lions are a firm favourite to progress to the knock out round of the showpiece after qualifying with ease. As would be expected, Herve Renard stuck to his world cup squad in the provisional 27-man roster with the same players that held Spain to a 2-2 draw in Russia 2018​. The North African team is not short of powerhouse names — some of those featured are Saudi League top scorer Abderazzak Hamdallah, former Juventus defender Mehdi Benatia and the subject of major transfer speculation in Europe’s top leagues, Ajax midfielder Hakim Ziyech. 

Nicolas Pepe of the Ivory Coast in action during the International Friendly match between the Netherlands and Ivory Coast held at De Kuip or Stadion Feijenoord on June 4, 2017 in Rotterdam, Netherlands.

(June 3, 2017 - Source: Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images Europe)

Namibia and their Brave Warriors

Namibia is the lowest ranked team in the group D line-up. The ​Brave Warriors qualified in​ the most dramatic fashion as a fortuitous fateful turn of events saw them added to the 24 team roster despite losing to Zambia 1- 4 on final match-day. Unfortunately for Namibia, they will come into AFCON after being knocked out in the first stage of COSAFA Cup, not the preferred momentum. They will begin their AFCON campaign against Morocco.

Fixtures not to miss

Morocco vs Ivory Coast 

Morocco and Ivory Coast are both former winners. The last time that the Elephants won, they were under the coaching of Herve Renard, Morocco's current coach. Ibrahim Kamara's men have the biggest challenge of the group against the Atlas Lions. Nicolas Pepe’s 22 league goals and 11 assists which helped Ligue 1 side, Lille OSC finish second and secure a Champions League qualification making him a star to watch. He has solidified himself as a critical player in the Ivorian squad.  Morocco will likely win their match-ups against Namibia and South Africa, while the Ivory Coast - South Africa game is still a coin toss. This match is the toughest one to predict because Morocco and Ivory Coast are on equal footing in most regards. It is a must watch of the group stage to see how Herve Renard will fare against his former employers.

 South Africa vs Namibia

Bafana Bafana will have better odds against Namibia. However, the Namibians will have to win this match to stand a chance of reaching the knockout stages. Overall, South Africa are the stronger side, Namibia will have to break through Stuart Baxter's defensive formation, which will not be an easy task for the Brave Warriors. A win for Bafana will rattle the qualifying race against Ivory Coast. 

FT’s 2019 AFCON Stadium Guide

Introduction

Imagine if the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations were like high school lectures where you would have to go to the same place every day to attain value. It would be quite boring. The fun comes with watching players from a different stadium now and again, to see the players in a different lens. The challenge that comes with that though might be the difference in cultures in the host communities which fans and players alike would need to adjust to quickly. This is where we come in with a pre-tournament detailed stadium guide that will give you all that you need to sit back and enjoy the games. It has been declared that the AFCON will be played in t​he ​Cairo International, Air Defense (30 June), Al Salam, Alexandria, Suez and Ismailia stadiums. The opening and final match will be hosted by the Cairo Stadium.

Cairo International Stadium

The Cairo International Stadium ​is located in Nasr City of Giza and was built in 1960. Over the years, it has gone over certain renovations to ensure that it is still relevant to today’s soccer needs. It was renovated in 2005 and of course in 2019 to ensure that it will be ready to host Africa’s finest. It will not be the first time it has been home to a major tournament, having hosted the 1986 Africa Cup of Nations finals. Twenty years later in 2006, Cairo also hosted an AFCON final. In 2009, it was home to the FIFA U-20 World Cup. In this year’s AFCON, it will host the Group A games, semi-final and the final match. At its full capacity, this stadium can carry up to 75 000 soccer fans.

Locally, it is home to Zamalek and ​Ah-Ahly FC​ (which we once provided a detailed account of its journey to continental dominance at club level). For all the great memories that it has amassed over time, Cairo International is nicknamed the Stadium of Horror. While enjoying the game, it might be great to give this stadium respect for the years it has lived. It is much, much older than the people who will be on its turf.

Cairo City is the heart of Egypt that keeps the rest of the country alive even at night. While enjoying yourself in the games, it would be great to immerse yourself in the street food and how Egyptians live.

Air Defence (30 June) Stadium

While all the other stadiums were going through the noises of hammering innovation, this one was untouched because it was already looking sleek and ready for the 2019 AFCON. Only the roads around it were recently refurbished for the purposes of the Nations Cup tournament. The 30 June stadium was built in 2012 as home to the ​Air Defence Sports Village. In case you were also wondering why a place would be named after a date, here is why: It was simply founded on the 30th of June together with other buildings which were being built by the Air Defence Force as part of the Olympic Village. It can carry up to 30 000 people. It is home to Pyramid FC who play in the​ ​Egyptian Premier League. Other than hosting football matches, it also hosts athletics, so you will also have a look at the grounds that train Egypt’s athletes while you are still there.

Al Salam Stadium

It is located in the Northern part of Cairo, and like the Air Defence Stadium, it can carry up to 30 000 people. The 10-year-old stadium was built in 2009 to host the FIFA U-20 World Cup. It has hosted numerous local games between ​Al-Ahly and Zamalek. Like the aforementioned stadiums, it has more to offer than just the main pitch. It has hotels and training fields circling it. During the AFCON, it will host the Group D matches. 

Alexandria Stadium

Unlike most of the stadiums, this one is located outside of Cairo and in the Meditteranean City of Alexandria. The city has had its own fair share of hosting of sports matches. It hosted the AFCON tournament in 2006 and it will host the Group B games in the 2019 AFCON. The Alexandria Stadium is home to ​Egyptian Premier League sides Al Ittihad, Smouha and Olympic Club. Even though it can carry only 20 000 people, it is still called “Home of Beautiful” because it is the oldest stadium, built in 1929. As an ancient city, Alexandria holds some of Egypt’s iconic buildings and monuments which include the ​Bibliotheca Alexandrina​ and ​Greco-Roman Museum​. Maybe one evening when the games are going well or not, you can take a peep at the city.

Suez Stadium

Even though it was opened in 1990, it will host its first international games this year. It was recently renovated this year to host the Nations Cup to increase its capacity to 20 500. It is located in the beautiful city of Suez which is characterized by touristic places such as Red Sea Resorts which are 55km from the city. The Group E teams who will have their matches hosted there will have more than the game to play. The city of Suez stems from a rich mining history, but has grown to position itself as the ​best commercial and industrial centre at the Red Sea that people are quite keen to visit.

Ismaila Stadium

Ismaila is arguably one of the most beautiful cities in the North Eastern side of Egypt and the players will be caught in the midst of all that beauty. The home to Ismaily SC will be more than able to carry about 18 500 guests. It will welcome all the Group F games and one Group E game. It has also hosted the ​2006 African Cup of Nations and the U-20 World Cup in 2009. There were some rumours that this city will not be included among the 2019 AFCON hosts because of the fans’ clash​ that happened between Ismaily SC and Tunisian’s Club Africain during a CAF Champions’ League a while ago. This says that while fans are enjoying the games there, they should be conscious of their behaviour lest they enforce the stereotypes that may form against the beautiful Ismalia. This is a vibrant city with art so make sure you grab souvenir while still there.

Conclusion

If there is something we cannot doubt, it is the success and joy (or not for some) that will come with the 2019 AFCON Cup. Egypt has also opened the arms of its beautiful cities to host the rest of Africa. This guide has given us a feel of what to expect when we get to the different stadiums. While enjoying the games, let us remember to explore the cities and most importantly respect the culture of the Egyptian people.