FT Pause Moment: Should "dummies" be considered as assists? Inspired by Suarez

Well, the UEFA Champions League matchday 2 is behind us now, but some moments stay with us forever. One such performance would obviously be vintage Messi showing up big time for Barcelona but schooling Tottenham Hotspur on the fundamentals of GOAT (Greatest Of All Time) behaviour. The 31-year-old created all of the four Barca goals and scored two as the La Liga champions registered a 4-2 victory at Wembley. Croatia’s Ivan Rakitic and Philippe Coutinho were also on the score sheet, banging some seriously ridiculous goals. One player not on the scoresheet or having a cute statistic for example, an assist, but equally crucial to the overall performance was Luis Suarez.

Two dummies, two goals

Luis Suarez of Barcelona shoots while under pressure from Davinson Sanchez of Tottenham Hotspur during the Group B match of the UEFA Champions League between Tottenham Hotspur and FC Barcelona at Wembley Stadium on October 3, 2018 in London, United Kingdom.

(Oct. 2, 2018 - Source: Shaun Botterill/Getty Images Europe)

Assists and goals have become some of the most important stats in the modern game. GOATs have been crowned based on such and the value of players continue to be influenced greatly by statistics more than anything else in the digital age, leaving many assuming the role of being unsung heroes. An assist in particular is simply awarded to the person who makes the final pass before a goal is scored. They are considered to have “assisted” the goal, laying it up on the plate for the scorer.

Now, what about those who do the same without touching the ball? On two occasions, Jordi Alba squared the ball into the box that found Messi after Suarez had skipped past the ball, in other words dummying, to draw out the defenders and give Messi the space to find his favorite spot in the net without pressure. In fact, on the first instance, Coutinho and Suarez had to both dummy the ball, confusing the Spurs defenders and aid Messi to deliver his masterpiece. Credit to Alba for delivering the assists by delivering the ball into the box, but what of Suarez’s awareness to know where Messi would be in a glance and drive all the defenders out of the “heat area” without touching the ball but with just simple cheeky movements. What brilliance!

The Uruguayan will not be in the record books for such, now and in the future and maybe even get criticized for not scoring as many goals as a striker. Alba laid up the ball for Messi, but Suarez increased the odds for Messi scoring exponentially. Looks like an assist to me, maybe even more.

“Jordi Alba squared the ball into the box that found Messi after Suarez had skipped past the ball, in other words dummying, to draw out the defenders and give Messi the space to find his favorite spot in the net without pressure.”

— Dennis Takaendesa, FirstTouch Africa

Liverpool vs Man City, the tale of two North Africans

The most followed football league on the face of the earth returns this weekend. Two of the three teams yet to lose a premier league game face-off on Sunday at one of the most electric atmospheres in the world of football, Anfield. One of the team are the reigning EPL champion while the other has not tasted some silverware since 2012. They however made the UEFA Champions League in the 2017/18 campaign and look like a club that is on the up. Manchester City and Liverpool have almost made lightwork of all premier league opposition so far, tied on points at the top of the table with only goal difference separating them - Sunday will properly separate the two. The winner will lay a huge marker for the 2018/19 title. What else should we expect?

A pertinent question to all the defenders picked of Sunday will be on how to stop two Arab brothers if there are both unleashed for the contest.

Mohamed Salah of Liverpool in action during the Premier League match between Chelsea FC and Liverpool FC at Stamford Bridge on September 29, 2018 in London, United Kingdom.

(Sept. 28, 2018 - Source: Mike Hewitt/Getty Images Europe)

Mohamed Salah

The 26-year-old needs no introduction. Salah became the first African since George Weah to be shortlisted for FIFA’s prime individual accolade for a top male footballer, eventually getting pipped to the award by Croatia’s Luka Modric. He still won the FIFA Puskas Award though, for scoring the best goal for the 2017-2018 season. Today, we are not going to go deep into his fairytale debut season last year with Liverpool but about what’s at stake right now. Liverpool suffered an embarrassing 1-0 loss at Napoli midweek in the Champions League after a lifeless performance in Naples. They have not won all their last three matches in all competitions against Napoli and Chelsea after winning all of their opening matches. The fable that they were bullying lesser teams looks like a reality at the face of the most recent results. The face of that Liverpool side, failing to win has been arguably Salah - who did not score a single goal in those matches. With high expectations on him to repeat the ridiculous feat of last season, he looks like he may be contending with the pressure that comes with it. Naysayers have already made him news headlines on several platforms. It all comes down to this weekend, with Liverpool keen to go back to winning ways and have a go at the current champions, making their case for being future champions and Salah also keen to go back on the scoresheet and remind the world and Anfield that silverware is what they are after; that they will beat the best if they have to. A scoring Salah will easily be considered to be consistent with a Liverpool that means business.

Riyad Mahrez

Riyad Mahrez of Manchester City celebrates after scoring his team's second goal during the Carabao Cup Third Round match between Oxford United and Manchester City at Kassam Stadium on September 25, 2018 in Oxford, England.

(Sept. 24, 2018 - Source: Julian Finney/Getty Images Europe)

This North African knows one or two things about winning silverwares. He has his own fairytale to reminisce, that narrates the unbelievable 2015/16 epl triumph by Leicester City. Riyad pulled all the strings in that Leicester side, aiding Jamie Vardy’s development to be a prolific striker. Unlike Salah, he is not City’s face, at least not for now. After switching to Manchester this summer in deal that made him the club’s record signing, the 27-year-old is yet to secure a regular starting position in Guardiola’s team. It cannot be any easier now, with Kevin De Bruyne expected to return to the side after being sidelined with injury. Mahrez’s favorite position over the years has grown to be the right wing, where he can cut inside with his left foot and from time to time, smash the ball to the far bottom corner beyond the goalkeeper’s reach. The chop and score has become the Mahrez trademark move. England’s Raheem Sterling has been quite efficient in that right wing position, scoring four times and assisting two others in six premier league starts. Bernardo Silva has on occasion, been deployed in that position as well and could continue in that light, now that David Silva and De Bruyne look to be picking up their protagonistic roles once again. Put simply, competition for Mahrez at City is quite tough. Whether he gets a starting role on Sunday, only Pep knows. What’s apparent is that he will have a mark on the game. He has to in his journeying of impressing the gaffer. He has scored a total of three goals in all of his three starts for City this campaign. Actually, two of the goals were from the bench against Cardiff. He is ready, starting or otherwise - he is looking to influence.

Last time out

The most recent Liverpool and Manchester City match in the premier league finished 4-3 after Liverpool had leaped to a 4-1 lead with both Salah and Mane getting their names on the score sheet. Liverpool inflicted City’s first defeat of the season last time;will Salah lead Liverpool to do it again or will Mahrez move not to allow it?

“A pertinent question to all the defenders picked of Sunday will be on how to stop two Arab brothers if there are both unleashed for the contest.”

— Dennis Takaendesa, FirstTouch Africa

UCL: Trouble in paradise? Liverpool toothless in Naples while Koulibaly shines

You just got to love football. You hardly can predict what may happen next, can you? Two weeks ago, we lifted the highest praise to Liverpool, especially their FAB 3 for an absolutely masterpiece performance against star studded PSG. A match in which they took the Parisians’ expensively assembled squad to school, did their homework and finished with the laundry. The Reds were really all over Neymar’s side as they eventually won 3-2. It looked like the path to some glory was as light as day but just two weeks later; we are not even sure what may happen next.

Build up to the match

“In all the glitz and glamour of last season, Liverpool did always look like they lacked some dynamic players in the midfield. But you can’t say that when they are winning, can you? For sometime now, it has been the long balls and lightning counter attackers led by the front three getting the job done for Liverpool which could be coming short now.”

— Dennis Takaendesa, FirstTouch Africa

Before the Champions League matchday 2 against Napoli in Naples, Liverpool had to welcome Chelsea at Anfield for the Carabao Cup before paying a visit of their own to Maurizio Sarri’s men just a few days later for a Premier League encounter. Daniel Sturridge pulled off a rabbit from a hat in the Carabao Cup fixture but Hazard had the final say with an absolute novel goal as the Blues walked away as ‘rude’ guests, humbling the hosts to a 2-1 loss and knocking them out of the competition. It was actually Liverpool’s first loss of the season in all competitions. The Saturday EPL affair looked like the tango with Chelsea would have a familiar end after Hazard opened the scoring with his sixth premier league goal of the season but Sturridge came through to spoil Chelsea’s second Red party of the week. The match eventually ending as a 1-1 draw. As the adage goes, well “it’s just the Carabao cup, it doesn’t matter anyway” with the aid of Sturridge’s screamer, some interesting concerns from Liverpool’s last two performances went unquestioned.

Serving up a boring affair in Naples

Most people would easily dismiss the Napoli clash as the most boring match of Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool era. It was simply lifeless, with no shots on goal for the full ninety. Even Liverpool’s manager, Klopp, agreed,

“It’s always a bad sign when you have to say your goalkeeper was your best player, but it was obvious tonight. I have kind of a filter in my brain where I forget bad stuff immediately.”

— Jurgen Klopp, Liverpool Manager

Mohamed Salah of Liverpool battles with Kalidou Koulibaly of Napoli during the Group C match of the UEFA Champions League between SSC Napoli and Liverpool at Stadio San Paolo on October 3, 2018 in Naples, Italy.

(Oct. 2, 2018 - Source: Catherine Ivill/Getty Images Europe)

You may notice that we have said nothing of the FAB 3 up to this point, they have just been really almost non-existent in the most recent matches. Mane is putting in the work but it sure looks like he has new found love with getting his name on the score sheet above anything else. Salah is still running down the wing, ever so working hard as well but lacking the final pass or getting stopped in his tracks by defenders for some predictable movements on occasion. At the end of the day, Bobby Firmino is getting lost in the middle of the two wide-men. And guess who is laying up a major claim for a spot amongst the front three? Daniel Sturridge. I do not believe Shaqiri is sleeping either.

Lacking dynamism in the midfield

Kalidou Koulibaly player of SSC Napoli celebrates the victory after the Group C match of the UEFA Champions League between SSC Napoli and Liverpool at Stadio San Paolo on October 3, 2018 in Naples, Italy.

(Oct. 2, 2018 - Source: Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images Europe)

In all the glitz and glamour of last season, Liverpool did always look like they lacked some dynamic players in the midfield. But you can’t say that when they are winning, can you? For sometime now, it has been the long balls and lightning counter attackers led by the front three getting the job done for Liverpool which could be coming short now. It’s perhaps the reason why Naby Keita was brought to the club who got a rare start at Napoli before being stretched off with a back injury after the 19th minute. Henderson and Milner are excellent players and “servants” of the club but many a times just to slow, predictable and seldom pick the ball up from the midfield and run at defenders to create chances or free up other players. Everything that Guinea’s Naby Keita brings to the club. Wijnaldum tries to do that but goes missing on some days. This lack of dynamism has been evident in the most recent affairs against Chelsea and Napoli, more so as the FAB 3 seem to be misfiring and Van Dijk looking like he is being overworked. The premier league fixture against Southampton showed signs of how devastating Liverpool could be with one more dynamic midfielder as they played an unfamiliar 4-2-3-1 in the first half with Shaqiri occupying the number 10 role. Liverpool is generally quick but they were quicker and sharper ensuring the score would be a neat 3-0 at halftime.

Forget Liverpool for a second, Koulibaly the bigger man!

Putting aside the Reds’ poor showing, Carlo Ancelotti’s men were really on top of their game, putting away a disappointing draw against Red Star Belgrade on matchday 1, they took the game to Liverpool. Central to rendering the FAB 3 toothless was Senegalese international, Kalidou Koulibaly’s organized defensive play at the heart of the defense, blocking everything, heading out everything and working seamlessly with Albiol. He even ran forward on occasion delivering crosses and trying out one or two shots at goal. That’s just how much Napoli had control, a centre-back got to swing in crosses into the opposition’s box. On a day he welcomed compatriot Sadio Mane to Italy, he finished as the bigger man.

Next up, Liverpool welcome champions Manchester City to Anfield on Sunday in the league. Who even knows what will happen? Both teams are yet to lose a premier league match.

UEFA Champions League Round Up: Matchday 2

Lionel Messi of Barcelona is tackled by Victor Wanyama of Tottenham Hotspur during the Group B match of the UEFA Champions League between Tottenham Hotspur and FC Barcelona at Wembley Stadium on October 3, 2018 in London, United Kingdom.

(Oct. 2, 2018 - Source: Shaun Botterill/Getty Images Europe)

The premium club competition in Europe, UEFA Champions League is up and running. It’s only matchday two but we have seen clashes fit to be finals being played in front our eyes. Who would have thought that CSKA Moscow would beat reigning champions, Real Madrid or that Messi would show off his GOAT nature. Okay maybe, you could have guessed the latter. Here is a pick of the action that involved Africans playing in Europe.

1. (Man Utd vs Valencia) - Kondogbia and Valencia add insult to Manchester United’s injury

Romelu Lukaku of Manchester United is challenged by Geoffrey Kondogbia of Valencia during the Group H match of the UEFA Champions League between Manchester United and Valencia at Old Trafford on October 2, 2018 in Manchester, United Kingdom.

(Oct. 1, 2018 - Source: Michael Regan/Getty Images Europe)

The Central African Republic international was in the thick of things as Valencia and troubled United played out a goalless draw. The 25-year-old, Geoffrey Kondogbia teamed up with former Arsenal midfielder, Francis Coquelin to stuff out any potential threat from Jose Mourinho’s men coming from the midfield, winning the battle against Belgium’s Marouane Fellaini and Nemanja Matic. Had it not been for Valencia’s lack of intent and far from satisfying passes in the final third, Kondogbia and his teammates could have gotten more from the match played at Old Trafford.

2. (Porto vs Galatasaray) - Mali’s Moussa Marega steps up in the absence of Aboubakar

Porto had to battle the Turkish giants without their star forward, Cameroonian Vincent Aboubakar who will spend considerable amount of time on the sidelines after undergoing knee surgery. Aboubakar’s bag of goals carried the Portuguese side to the knockout stages in the 2017/18 UCL season but 27-year-old Marega looks more than capable to fill the big shoes. His solitary goal was enough to seal off a 1-0 victory against Galatasaray, sending Porto top of Group D ahead of Bundesliga side, Schalke, who also have four points

3. (Atletico Madrid vs Club Brugge) - Ever so reliable Thomas Partey does the job again

Ghanaian midfielder has really made Atletico Madrid his home and might be on course to become a future captain and legend. He was involved in the side as Diego Simeone’s men registered a 3-1 victory over Club Brugge, taking their points tally to six, tied with group A leaders, Borussia Dortmund who brushed aside Monaco, 3-0

Mauro Emanuel Icardi of FC Internazionale celebrates his goal with his team-mate Kwadwo Asamoah (R) during the Group B match of the UEFA Champions League between FC Internazionale and Tottenham Hotspur at San Siro Stadium on September 18, 2018 in Milan, Italy.

(Sept. 17, 2018 - Source: Emilio Andreoli/Getty Images Europe)

4. (Tottenham vs Barcelona) - Wanyama starts but taken off at the 57th minute

After spending a lot of time on the sidelines with injuries and also bench warming after Eric Dier became the more preferred defensive midfielder at Spurs, Kenya’s Victor Wanyama finally got to start a match, the biggest of them all. He was quite fiery in the opening stages, putting out fires and even getting yellow-carded at some point for a tactical foul on Messi but was just as guilty for Barca’s third goal as Messi leaped into the box to place the ball into the bottom corner under his watch. Dier soon came to replace the 27-year-old Kenyan for reasons best known by Pochettino. You cannot really blame anyone though for Tottenham’s 4-2 loss to Barca - they were simply outclassed.

5. (PSV vs Inter Milan) - Asamoah’s Inter record second successive UCL victory from behind

Ghanaian, Kwadwo Asamaoh was deployed once again at the left-back role as his side came from behind in Netherlands, to beat PSV 2-1. Inter Milan have now collected 6 out of 6 available points after seeing of Tottenham from behind again on matchday 1. It promises to be an interesting encounter when they meet Barcelona in their next match with both teams having bagged maximum points so far.

Where is the ceiling for Wilfried Zaha?

“He has been commended for his fantastic dribbles that he completes with half steps, cutting inside from the wing and making defenders sweep the floor with any part of the body he chooses, regularly the limbs and hair on occasion. On top of that his speed on the ball electric, super sonic stuff.”

— Simiso Shabangu, FirstTouch Africa

A few years ago, mentioning Messi and Zaha in the same sentence could have been treasonous, but now has being compared to the five time Balon d’Or winner for his dribbling abilities. That comparison on it’s own is quite an achievement, but the the 25 year-old  Ivorian striker is does not seem to be at the peak of his career yet. Is this Messi association the best he could do or is this just the beginning of the more he could do and become?

Crystal Palace’s “Messi”

Wilfried Zaha of Crystal Palace jumps clear of a challenge from Federico Fernandez of Newcastle United during the Premier League match between Crystal Palace and Newcastle United at Selhurst Park on September 22, 2018 in London, United Kingdom.

(Sept. 21, 2018 - Source: Julian Finney/Getty Images Europe

He has been commended for his fantastic dribbles that he completes with half steps, cutting inside from the wing and making defenders sweep the floor with any part of the body he chooses, regularly the limbs and hair on occasion. On top of that his speed on the ball electric, super sonic stuff. He has become not just a playful dribbler but an effective one at that, scoring important goals for Roy Hodgson’s men. At the start of the 2017/18 EPL season, he netted three goals in two matches for Crystal Palace take his tally to 24, an all time high for an Eagles player in the Premier League. The Selhurst residents really do miss his goals, hair and everything Zaha in periods injuries which has been quite a few in recent times. It’s not unfounded to say that Zaha is Crystal Palace’s playmaker, creating goals for teammates and scoring even more. Henceforth comparisons to Messi are not shocking, the Argentine has just however done the same thing for Barcelona in the La Liga for an extend period of time. Could it be that Zaha reaching such a level at mid-table club like Palace in the English top flight signals the commencement of even a bigger career rather than mere committed service and loyalty? It sure looks like Zaha, with no disrespect intended, has outgrown the club.  Actually, reliance on him might be more damaging than the perks of his brilliance.

The conversation around him moving to a bigger club?

As anticipated, discussions around him potentially moving to a bigger team like Tottenham, Dortmund, Real Madrid or Barcelona have been far from over, even though he recently renewed his commitment to the London club. An obvious argument to a move away would be exposure to other great players propelling him to concentrate on personal growth without the ‘pressure’ of carrying the team on his shoulders. Zaha did however play for a bigger club, Manchester United from 2013-15 managing just two appearances in two years. Some feel like he is play that feeds of the limelight and that he was overshadowed and got his light dimmed at United. Could it be that he was still young and a growing footballer who lacked someone who unequivocally believed in his abilities. Well, I would like to believe that no matter the challenge this time around or club, cannot be too big for Zaha. You do just become one of the most dreaded forwards in the English Premier League for no reason.

Protection and Winning

Wilfried Zaha of Crystal Palace battles for possession with David Brooks of AFC Bournemouth during the Premier League match between AFC Bournemouth and Crystal Palace at Vitality Stadium on October 1, 2018 in Bournemouth, United Kingdom.

(Sept. 30, 2018 - Source: Mike Hewitt/Getty Images Europe)

The Ivorian striker becoming dangerous defenders in the premier league has also seen the defenders arguably becoming a danger to him. He recently called out for more protection as the most singled out player, alluding that maybe he would need to have one of his legs broken before being taken seriously. Maybe he has indeed divided on some occasions but it goes without saying that being the centre of attention because of his abilities and threat he poses to any opponent, more protection would be required. Both from potential haters or shielding himself from naysayers.

On Monday evening, Crystal Palace lost their game to Bournemouth . As soon as the whistle blew, seemingly frustrated, Wilfried Zaha gave his coach a brief handshake and rushed to the dressing room. The fans who had been watching him for ninety minutes could have appreciated more, a custom applause for their unwavering support despite the result. With his abilities at an time high is his career and the desire to win more increasing with every performance, Zaha might possibly be seeing more and demanding more of himself than the entire world has ever seen. Most are already dazzled with what he has given so far, could words be coined to what else he can bring to the Africa and global football in general.

Don't Miss Out On These Incredible African Leagues!

We still ask, do you perhaps wish there were more football stories, controversies and goals to enjoy other than those provided by the English Premier League, La Liga, Italian Serie A, UEFA Champions League, World Cup, Bundesliga and many more? We have a list for you, definitely far from being exhaustive, but one with leagues you would not want to miss.

Absa Premier League (South Africa)

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)

This league proves that the number of years that a league has seen is not anything, if the league has the financial support behind it. True to the fact of its location, in one of Africa’s biggest economic hub, it is valued as the second most valuable league in Africa. In 2007, ABSA sponsored the league with an admirable USD $61 million dollars for five years. Any league that has $12.3M to spend per year is definitely marked for long term sustainability and of course, a position at the top. Above that, the league set itself up on a record deal partnership, the biggest on the continent so far with Supersport that guaranteed windfall of cash. Armed with great teams like Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns, this league has 16 teams and 624 players in its belt. Notably, the league has about 17% of its players coming from foreign countries which is the highest rate amongst all African leagues. Here is the uniting characteristic of diversity in soccer at play! Here are even more reasons why you should watch it.

Etisalat Egypt’s Premier League

Hany El Egezy (C) of Al Ahly celebrates with teammates after levelling the scores at 1-1 during the Wembley Cup match between Barcelona and Al Ahly at Wembley Stadium on July 26, 2009 in London, England.

(July 25, 2009 - Source: Richard Heathcote/Getty Images Europe)

More than anything, this league is armored with the financial capacity that surpasses all other leagues in the continent. It is valued at €105.65 million and has 18 teams fully participating in it. Just to give a sense of scale of how much it is worth, if all the money that the league is worth were to be spent, it is enough to purchase 400K of Nike soccer boots worth $300  each. It has become the envy of players from across the continent. No wonder Legends like El Hadary were reluctant to leave their country to play European football. This league is sponsored by the telecommunication dominant player Etisalat and ofcourse hosts a myriad of clubs that have become powerhouses of football on the continent. In fact the two most successful clubs in the history of the CAF Champions League, Al Ahly and Zamalek, are domiciled in the Egypt Premier League. These clubs have also been notable for hosting a great deal of Egyptian talent that ends up finding its way in the most known European football leagues.

Mamelodi Sundowns' Teko Modise (R) fights for the ball against Zamalek's Ahmed Hassan (L) during the first length of the CAF Championship final on October 15, 2016 at Atteridgville Stadium in Pretoria. / AFP / STRINGER

(Oct. 14, 2016 - Source: AFP)

Glo Ghanaian Premier League

This league was engulfed by lack of popularity until Globacom, a telecommunication company came with a $23 million sponsorship for five years. In 2009, the Optimum Media Prime signed a viewership deal of USD $90 000. It was ranked as the 11th best league in Africa by the International Federation of Football History and Statistics from 2001-2010. We have the country especially the league to thank for producing stars that have gone on to earn legendary status in African football such as  Michael Essien, Asamoah Gyan and Kwadwo Asamoah.

The Nigerian Professional Football League

WIth vasts of the global talent today being Nigerian and the country itself being a host to close to 200 million Africans, its inevitable not to have a lot to talk about from their football league and it sure would be surreal for it not to have a place among the best. The Nigerian Football Federation itself, has encountered a lot of storms over the years that saw the top flight league change names countless times to reinforce the brand identity. In 2012, the NPFL was named the best league in Africa and ranked 24th in the world, above the Scottish Premier League. Since being incorporated by the League Management Company in 2012, signs of upgrade of facilities have been evident. Partnerships with organizers of the La Liga, Liga de Futbol Profesional and the Premier League body of Morocco have since been reached ushering an era of continuous integration into the global football leagues.  The NPFL All Stars (made up of the league’s best players) have since been playing pre-season friendlies with Spanish giants such as Atletico Madrid, Malaga and Valencia to expose the talent as well as improve the fabric of the league.

What is your favorite league? What do you like most about it?

“Just to give a sense of scale of how much it is worth, if all the money that the league is worth were to be spent, it is enough to purchase 400K of Nike soccer boots worth $300  each. It has become the envy of players from across the continent. No wonder Legends like El Hadary were reluctant to leave their country to play European football.”

— Simiso Shabangu, FirstTouch Africa

UEFA Champions League Matchday 2: Our African Fantasy Five

The biggest European club competition commenced last Tuesday and we witnessed some stellar performances by individuals who have been in and out of their teams since the beginning of the 2018/19 season. These soccer players will be looking to continue their form into Matchday 2. But before we pop some popcorn and get ready for the second round, let's look at the five African players that stood out in the competition last week. Here is FirstTouch’s UEFA Champions League Fantasy 5. We have one goalkeeper, one defender, two midfielders and a striker uptop in a diamond formation.

Andre Onana of Ajax reacts during the Group E match of the UEFA Champions League between Ajax and AEK Athens at Johan Cruyff Arena on September 19, 2018 in Amsterdam, Netherlands.

(Sept. 18, 2018 - Source: Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images Europe)

Andre Onana - Bayern Munich vs Ajax

We previewed the UEFA Champions League and identified Andre Onana as one of the Africans to watch out for in the competition. If you watched Ajax’s match against AEK Athens, you would understand why there is so much buzz around the youngster. The Cameroon international was at it again as he kept a clean sheet in his first outing of the UEFA Champions League tournament this season. He will surely look to maintain that and hopefully breakthrough into the conversation about the best young talents in the world.

Kwadwo Asamoah (R) of FC Internazionale is pulled by his shirt by Erik Lamela of Tottenham Hotspur during the Group B match of the UEFA Champions League between FC Internazionale and Tottenham Hotspur at San Siro Stadium on September 18, 2018 in Milan, Italy.

(Sept. 17, 2018 - Source: Emilio Andreoli/Getty Images Europe)

Kwadwo Asamoah - PSV Eindhoven vs Inter Milan

The versatile Ghanaian was preferred in the left back position for Inter Milan when they faced Tottenham. The defender grabbed this opportunity with both hands as he led his team to a solid 2-1 win. Asamoah and the defenders next to him had to be compact to keep out the dangers from inform striker Harry Kane and the resurged Lucas. This must have impressed Luciano Spalletti, the Inter Milan coach. He made 4 last ditch tackles in his own half before clearing the ball away from danger on 4 occasions.

Sadio Mane - Napoli vs Liverpool

The Senegalese international is ever consistent. Although he might not score goals on a regular basis, his work rate and chances he creates make up for his flaws. Mane was a constant threat to the Paris Saint Germain defenders. He completed 3 dribbles and made two key passes from the wing. You might remember him side-stepping Neymar, inarguably the overall best dribble from  matchday 1. His confidence to take on any defender means that he will always be a target for the defenders to foul him. Who doesn't need a pacy and trickery winger in their team? They can create something special from anything.

Hakim Ziyech of Ajax in action during the UEFA Champions League Play-off 1st leg match between Ajax and Dynamo Kiev held at Johan Cruyff Arena on August 22, 2018 in Amsterdam, Netherlands.

(Aug. 21, 2018 - Source: Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images Europe)

Hakim Ziyech - Bayern Munich vs Ajax

One of the most important African playmakers in the present day. The Moroccan international orchestrated Ajax’s attacks against AEK Athens. He was also hungry for goals as he made 7 shots throughout the entire course of the game. His defense splitting passes is a must have to a fan who plays fantasy football. He adds a sure attacking threat to our UEFA Champions League Fantasy 5 as he complements the attack with his knack for a goal. A playmaker like him deserves a place in our team.

Vincent Aboubakar - Porto vs Galatasaray

None of the African strikers scored a goal on Matchday 1. The Porto striker is probably the one more likely to score in the next matches purely because of the amazing record of carrying his side into the last 16 in the previous campaign. We are hopeful that the Cameroonian will pick up their scoring boots and repay our faith in his abilities to be shortlisted in FirstTouch’s Fantasy 5 side.

Porto's Cameroonian forward Vincent Aboubakar kicks the ball during their UEFA Champions League group G football match FC Porto vs Monaco at the Dragao stadium in Porto, on December 6, 2017. / AFP PHOTO / MIGUEL RIOPA

(Dec. 5, 2017 - Source: AFP)

UEFA Europa League Matchday 2: Our African Fantasy Five

The second best European club competition commenced last Thursday and we witnessed some stellar performances by individuals who have been in and out of their teams since the beginning of the 2018/19 season. These soccer players will be looking to continue their form into Matchday 2. But before we pop some popcorn and get ready for the second round, let's look at the five African players that stood out in the competition last week. Here's FirstTouch’s UEFA Europa League Fantasy 5. We have one goalkeeper, one defender, two midfielders and a striker up top in a diamond formation.

Goalkeeper

It is quite unfortunate that no African goalkeeper was in action on Matchday 1. Therefore, this position will be reserved for a goalkeeper that pushes into the Starting XI of their respective clubs and prove their worth on Matchday 2.

Joseph Aidoo of Ghana shows his frustration after a Mali goal during the FIFA U-20 World Cup New Zealand 2015 Round of 16 match between Ghana and Mali at Wellington Regional Stadium on June 10, 2015 in Wellington, New Zealand.

(June 9, 2015 - Source: Hagen Hopkins/Getty Images AsiaPac)

Joseph Aidoo (Centre Back) - Sarpsborg vs Genk

The Ghanaian international plays for Genk in the Belgian division. He was a starter in the UEFA Europa League match between Genk and Malmo FF. He helped his team keep a clean sheet against the Swedish giants. Who would not want to have a defender that won 4 arial duels, cleared the ball 6 times out of danger, and made 3 crucial interceptions. The 23-year old was a class above the rest on Matchday 1.

Iwobi (Left Midfield) - Qarabag FK vs Arsenal

Mesut Ozil of Arsenal (r) celebrates scoring his sides second goal with Alex Iwobi during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Watford FC at Emirates Stadium on September 29, 2018 in London, United Kingdom.

(Sept. 28, 2018 - Source: Catherine Ivill/Getty Images Europe

Of course, the Naija boy deserves plaudits for his man of the match performance for Arsenal against Vorskla Poltava. He provided an assist for Aubameyang to score his second goal of the season on the 32nd minute. Iwobi created chances that went bagging as his teammates failed to finish off their opponents. The young midfielder was a constant menace on the left flank and would probably have been at the very top of the Power Rankings if the Europa League had a fantasy team of the week.

Metz's Senegalese midfielder Ismaila Sarr (L) vies with Rennes' French defender Ludovic Baal during the French L1 football match Rennes against Metz on October 30, 2016 at the Roazhon park stadium in Rennes, western France. / AFP / DAMIEN MEYER

(Oct. 29, 2016 - Source: AFP)

Ismaila Sarr (Right Midfield) - Astana vs Rennes

Fantasy football is based on efficiency and results as opposed to personal affection towards individual soccer players. This warrants a place for Sarr in the team on the right. The Senegalese international scored a stunner for Stade Rennais which is goal of the season contender. He produced the goods and would definitely be in our fantasy team heading into matchday 2.

Aubameyang (Centre Forward) - Qarabag FK vs Arsenal

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang of Arsenal celebrates after scoring his team's third goal with Henrikh Mkhitaryan of Arsenal during the UEFA Europa League Group E match between Arsenal and Vorskla Poltava at Emirates Stadium on September 20, 2018 in London, United Kingdom.

(Sept. 19, 2018 - Source: Henry Browne/Getty Images Europe)

Another Arsenal player to make it to the team. Well deserved if you ask me. The Gabonese international was hungry for goals against Ukrainian side, Vorskla Poltava. He scored a brace on the night and almost scored made it three had it not been for a shot that hit the upright. We would be confident having a world class striker like Pierre Emerick Aubameyang leading the line in my UEFA Europa League team.

(Super Sub) Mbwana Samatta - Sarpsborg vs Genk

Some special mention should be reserved for the Tanzanian striker Mbwana Samatta who plays for Genk. The forward scored one of the goals that sealed a 2-0 victory against Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s old club. Had it not been for the Aubameyang, Samatta would be leading the line in my UEFA Europa League Fantasy 5 side. Oh maybe we could play two strikers with no goalkeeper, if that were possible.

Which Africans would make it into your Matchday 2 Europa League Fantasy Five?

ABSA Flashback: Three strikers that took the South African League by storm

The Absa premiership is one of the most watched leagues on the African continent, Many foreign international players have had the opportunity to grace the league and show football lovers their worth. Below, we take you down the memory lane and bring you some of the top international strikers that have played in the league.

1. Collins Mbesuma

Collins Mbesuma of Orlando pirates battling for the ball with Samson Chilupe of Zanaco FC during the CAF Confedaration Cup match between Orlando Pirates and Zanaco at FNB Stadium on April 06, 2013 in Johannesburg, South Africa.

(April 5, 2013 - Source: Gallo Images/Getty Images Europe)

No doubt Mbesuma will surely go down as one of the best foreign strikers to ever grace the ABSA premiership. He was a thorn in the flesh for many defenders with his sacred left-foot. The former Kaizer Chiefs marksman scored a staggering 35 goals in his second season with Chiefs, helping the club to win the title in the 2004/2005 season while also grabbing the player of the season accolade. Mbesuma was a joy to watch in the 18 yard box. His predatory instincts and off the ball movements enabled him to make scoring looked like a hobby anyone can do. Ironically, Mbesuma managed to play for all the “big three” teams in South Africa as he also joined crosstown rivals Orlando Pirates and later turned out for 2015 CAF Champions league winners, Mamelodi Sundowns. Other teams that Mbesuma played for include Golden Arrows and Mpumalanga Black Aces.

2.  Manuel “Tiko Tiko” Bucane

Chinedu Obasi and Obinna Nsofor of Nigeria tackle Tico-Tico Bucuane of Mozambique during the African Nations Cup Group C match between Nigeria and Mozambique, at the Alto da Chela Stadium on January 20, 2010 in Lubango, Angola.

(Jan. 19, 2010 - Source: Gallo Images/Getty Images Europe)

The former Jomo Cosmos attacker was just pure class. He could be so slippery he would leave defenders shouting at themselves as he ran off to the corner to celebrate after slicing through the most compact of defences.Popular for his summersault (Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang kind) scoring celebrations, Bucane surely had his moments of brilliance in the league. The Mozambican born striker boasts the record of most goals scored by a foreign player in the South African league, scoring 106 goals in 276 starts. Too good a stat right? Bucane resembled a high level of consistency which is rare these days in the ABSA premier league. To add icing to the cake Tico-Tico is remains a responsible citizen, now working as an ambassador of various enterprises in his home country of Mozambique.

3. Knowledge Musona

Rafael van der Vaart of Tottenham and Knowledge Musona of Chiefs during the 2011 Vodacom Challenge match between Kaizer Chiefs and Tottenham Hotspur at Peter Mokaba Stadium on July 16, 2011 in Polokwane, South Africa.

(July 15, 2011 - Source: Gallo Images/Getty Images Europe)

The Zimbabwean  arrived at Naturena accompanied by controversy pertaining to Chiefs’ transfer policy which was nicknamed “buy one get two free” which was specific to Zimbabwean players. Nonetheless, the jokes disappeared soon after Musona started playing for Amakhosi as his displays made critics eat humblest of pies. In just two seasons with the Glamour boys (Chiefs), Musona bagged 28 goals in 49 matches which soon made him attract interest from Germany. “The Smiling Assassin” as Musona is popularly known, certainly had quite an impressive time during his time with Kaizer Chiefs. He was a menace to defenders with his lightning pace and sheer goal poaching instincts. Many remember him for his moments of brilliance particularly in the soweto derbies between Chiefs and Orlando Pirates where he scored a handful of goals.

Notable mentions also go to the likes of Peter Ndlovu, Benjani Mwaruwari, Chris Katongo, James Chamanga, Mame Niang as well as Raphael Chukwu. These goal poachers certainly gave us moments to cherish for a long time because of their goal scoring abilities. Who’s your favourite striker of all time?

“The former Jomo Cosmos attacker was just pure class. He could be so slippery he would leave defenders shouting at themselves as he ran off to the corner to celebrate after slicing through the most compact of defences.”

— Siphosethu Thwala, FirstTouch Africa

Is Dembele ready to share Messi's Barcelona "burden"?

False start

Many believed Ousmane Dembele’s first season at the Catalans would be excellent considering the hefty prize tag that came with the player’s move from former club Borussia Dortmund in 2017. He was bought by the club for a price of €147 million as a replacement for Brazilian dynamite, Neymar but life at the Camp Nou did not quite kickoff well for the 2018 FIFA World Cup winner. A combination of long term injuries as well as lack of game time were some of the reasons for the Frenchman's disappointing  first season at the club. In the summer of 2018, barely a year into his Barca career, there were already rumours linking him with a loan move away from the club, with the likes of Arsenal and Liverpool vying for his signature. However all of that did not materialize and the Frenchman declared at the start of the season that he was staying put with the club.

The Usain Bolt kind of start

Ousmane Dembele of Barcelona celebrates after scoring his team's second goal during the Group B match of the UEFA Champions League between FC Barcelona and PSV at Camp Nou on September 18, 2018 in Barcelona, Spain.

(Sept. 17, 2018 - Source: Alex Caparros/Getty Images Europe)

Fast forward to the current 2018/19 season, all that seems to be changing. The new  La Liga campaign has started off on a high note for Dembele as he has been in the thick of things in many of his team’s first few games. In his first three games for the club this season, Dembele has scored two goals, showing the quality that he can be key in easing the pressure off Lionel Messi and Suarez in terms of scoring as well as creating goals. Although he did not get a lot of game-time in France’s ridiculously talented squad during the recent world cup, Dembele has not let that affect him as he has began the new season on a high.

Most fans believe that Dembele’s growth at the club will be enhanced by having Lionel Messi supporting him. Barca’s main man is the central point of Barca’s every move thus Dembele should aim to learn more from the little Argentine magician in terms of both his decision-making and movement around the pitch. That way he will be able to exert himself properly and increase the confidence coach Ernesto Valverde has in him. What is more more, being surrounded by a great deal of other quality players such as Philippe Coutinho and Luis Suarez will certainly be beneficial for “Mosquito’s” development, More so ease the pressure that came with his price tag. On his best day, Dembele can embarrass the best of wing backs with his blistering pace and endless dribbling ability, which are some of the qualities that made the club gain interest in the player.

“Fast forward to the current 2018/19 season, all that seems to be changing. The new  La Liga campaign has started off on a high note for Dembele as he has been in the thick of things in many of his team’s first few games.”

— Siphosethu Thwala, FirstTouch Africa

I personally consider Dembele to be in the top ten world’s best young players because of his raw talent. He is that type of player who has the potential to be the best player provided he gets the right mentoring and enough game time. Ernesto Valverde has been slowly throwing the Frenchman into the thick of things this season and I am sure most Barca supporters are enjoying that and would hope that they will see more of Dembele this season. After all, he is the fourth most expensive player on the planet and I am persuaded many would agree with me that Ousmane is certainly too good to rot on the bench. The 2018/2019 season seems to be the one for Dembele to finally stamp his authority and secure his place in the talented Barcelona squad.

Now more than ever

Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele and Presnel Kimpembe of France celebrate victory following the 2018 FIFA World Cup Final between France and Croatia at Luzhniki Stadium on July 15, 2018 in Moscow, Russia.

(July 14, 2018 - Source: Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images Europe)

Barca seems to be in kind of a renaissance with loads of talent brought in the summer such as  the 21-year-old Malcolm, Arturo Vidal, Lenglet and another Brazilian in Arthur. The old guns who carried Barcelona through many years of glory, that is the Iniesta, Xavi, Busquets, Pique and Messi have all moved on or are soon to depart and make way for the new. They seem to be figuring out a new style of play and Messi remains the stabilizing factor in the far from smooth transition period. Dropping seven points in the past three La Liga games against Girona, Leganes and Athletic Club, is so much unlike Barcelona. There is no better for Dembele to take some pressure over Messi and make an undisputed claim for a key role in the club that is reinventing itself.

Will he continue rising to the occasion? Should the new Barcelona be built around him? Have your say in the comment box below.

What’s happening with Mo Elneny at Arsenal?

Arsene Wenger brought in the Egyptian midfielder, Mohamed Elneny from Basel in a £7 million deal back in January, 2016. The long search for a defensive midfielder with the ability to dictate play and control the tempo of the match seemed to have reached an end when Wenger identified Elneny as the man to step into the role. The role that Arsenal fans lamented over ever since the Patrick Vieira and Gilberto Silva days. The African did not disappoint even in the big matches. A memorable goal for Arsenal against Barcelona just 2 months into his time at the Emirates increased Elneny’s popularity among the fans. However, the 26-year old struggled to make himself indispensable in Wenger’s team over the past two years. Unai Emery’s era does not promise to be different. Here, we assess his situation at Arsenal.

Mesut Ozil #10 and Mohamed Elneny #4 of Arsenal looks on the ball 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)

Mo Elneny has been used as a fringe player since 2016 meaning he has had limited game time. Elneny deputised Ramsey and Santi Cazorla which guaranteed him some minutes in case these two needed to be rested. His ability to play in between the lines and pick a pass made him a good back up to the Spaniard Santi Cazorla who was the heart and soul of the team. However, Francis Coquelin overtook Elneny in the pecking order and suddenly, he had 3 players to compete with for a place in Arsene Wenger’s team. That same year, Arsenal announced the signing of Granit Xhaka from Borussia Monchengladbach and as expected, life became even more difficult for the Egyptian. However, the club’s participation in 4 different tournaments ensured that he had a decent amount of time doing what he knows best.

Fast-forward to this year, Elneny is in somewhat a similar situation to that one a couple of years ago, if not worse. The Egyptian international who played at the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia finals finds himself behind recent arrivals in Torreira, Matteo Guendouzi as well as Granit Xhaka, and Aaron Ramsey in Unai Emery’s team. This raises questions as to why the player has not progressed enough to knock on the doors of the first team like how Casemiro’s influence grew in the midfield trio of Real Madrid. Could it be that the player is content with his situation as long he gets the big bucks at the London club or that his love for Arsenal is too great that he still hopes to achieve more with the team. This question still has to be answered but his situation should concern the Egyptian coach, Javier Aguirre, who is aware of the player’s talent and potential.

“Mo Elneny is not getting any younger. He is now 26-years of age and approaching the ‘prime years’ of footballers. He surely would not like be spending his best years in his playing career playing second fiddle football.”

— Tinotenda Magiya, FirstTouch Africa

Besides, there is reason to believe that his situation could become worse. This depends on Ainsley Maitland-Niles’ progress in recovery from a fractured fibula. The young English international has put in some impressive performances since his debut. Paul Pogba reserved some special praise for the 21-year old on April 29, when the youngster bossed the midfield against Manchester United. Ainsley is also another player contending for a spot in the team.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang of Arsenal celebrates scoring the 2nd Arsenal goal with Mohamed Elneny of Arsenal during the Premier League match between Arsenal and Watford at Emirates Stadium on March 11, 2018 in London, England.

(March 10, 2018 - Source: Julian Finney/Getty Images Europe)

In addition, Mo Elneny is not getting any younger. He is now 26-years of age and approaching the ‘prime years’ of footballers. He surely would not like be spending his best years in his playing career playing second fiddle not only to the aforementioned players but also to the youngsters that seem to be given the nod ahead of him at Arsenal. Although he has already played in the UEFA Europa League and the Carabao Cup this 2018/19 season, he would most definitely be dreaming of showcasing his goods in the English Premier League like his fellow compatriot, Mohamed Salah at Liverpool. Maybe it is time that the Egyptian could consider leaving Arsenal to further his career. Cheikhou Kouyate did the same this summer when he left West Ham for Crystal Palace. Elneny is too good a player to keep playing in the less significant matches like he has been doing this season and the situation looks like it’s having a toll on his confidence as well.

What do you think Elneny should do? Could the situation improve?

African midfield trio help Fulham secure a point against Watford

The Premier League weekend kicked off with new boys Fulham welcoming highflying Watford who had won all of their first four matches, only losing to Jose Mourinho and Manchester United in the fifth. It is in games with opposition outside the so called “big six” that the Whites’ big money signing, Jean Michel Seri would be expected to really have a go, splash his creative juices and run the match from start to finish. As expected, Watford proved to be a tricky opposition, forcing the Craven Cottagers to start on the back foot after Andre Gray had put the visitors ahead in the second minute.

The Ivorian, Seri and his teammates were forced to play ping pong basic football as the Premier League fourth placed team showed why they had done so well in their first matches of the season. There was simply no place for Jean Michel Seri and his creative juices to flow in the first half. Watford’s defence marshalled by Belgian-Congolese, Christian Kabasele was as cool as ice, pocketing Serbian striker Aleksandar Mitrovic who had proved lethal in all his Fulham matches from the time he was loaned from Newcastle and most recently when they made the move permanent in the summer. Up front, a much slimmer Troy Deeney who recently lost close to 6.4kilos in weight continued enjoying dividends of his new shape as he partnered with Andre Gray. It was business as usual in the midfield and the flanks as arguably Watford’s best player of the campaign so far, Roberto Pereyra, William Hughes and Abdoulaye Doucoure emerged as a superior backbone while Holebas ran up and down the left wing at will. After watching the first-half, one would be tempted to conclude that Fulham could be easily one of the easiest candidates for relegation and that their over £100 million expenditure on transfers in the summer was misdirected. However, things took a different twist in the second forty-five minutes.

Floyd Ayite of Fulham and Daryl Janmaat of Watford in action during the Premier League match between Fulham FC and Watford FC at Craven Cottage on September 22, 2018 in London, United Kingdom.

(Sept. 21, 2018 - Source: Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images Europe)

“With Seri, Ayite and 22-year old Anguissa now deployed as Fulham’s backbone, tables turned. The West-African flavor now present, helped bring the best out of everyone else at the Cottage. ”

— Dennis Takaendesa, FirstTouch Africa

Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa of Fulham in action during the Premier League match between Fulham FC and Watford FC at Craven Cottage on September 22, 2018 in London, United Kingdom.

(Sept. 21, 2018 - Source: Steve Bardens/Getty Images Europe)

Fulham Manager, Slavisa Jokanovic made two changes in the midfield of three, bringing in Togolese international, Floyd Ayite and Cameroonian prodigy, Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa who joined them in the summer from French Ligue 1 side, Marseille. With Seri, Ayite and 22-year old Anguissa now deployed as Fulham’s backbone, tables turned. The West-African flavor now present, helped bring the best out of everyone else at the Cottage. England teenager, Ryan Sessegnon found his rhythm in the left-wing back position putting out any fires and racing upfield at the slightest of opportunities. He even burst his nose at some point but changed his shirt and ran back into the match. Argentine Luciano Vietto on loan from Atletico Madrid got his playmaker instincts resuscitated as a more spirited Fulham led from the midfield by the Ivory Coast-Togo-Cameroon trio pressed for an equalizer.

It eventually came in the 78th minute as Vietto won the ball on the left flank and setup Mitrovic for his fifth goal of the season launching him to the top of EPL scoring charts alongside Chelsea’s Eden Hazard. He could have had a second but Watford goalkeeper, Ben Forster was equal to every challenge and ensured the match finished tied at one goal apiece. Mitrovic who was pocketed the entire first-half of the match by Kabasele now looked the most dangerous player on the pitch. The African midfield personnel deployed in the second half by Fulham really lifted the spirit of the team and their game play.

The question for Jokanovic now will be whether he will stick to his guns or sacrifice even the captain of the team, Kevin McDonald to deploy Seri, Anguissa and Ayite? Oh perhaps change the tactics to accommodate all? Only time will tell. Fulham will visit Everton this coming weekend before welcoming Arsenal at the Craven Cottage the following one.

As for Cameroon, Togo and Ivory Coast, they will be delighted with their boys repping them in style. With the AFCON 2019 Qualifiers continuing in October and the tournament itself kicking off in June next year, there is no better way to prepare for the showdown than deciding Premier League matches.

Jean Michael Seri of Fulham runs with the ball during the Premier League match between Fulham FC and Watford FC at Craven Cottage on September 22, 2018 in London, United Kingdom.

(Sept. 21, 2018 - Source: Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images Europe)

English Premier League Round Up: Matchday 5

Cardiff City vs Manchester City (Saturday, 22 September 2018)

Riyad Mahrez of Manchester City scores his team's fourth goal during the Premier League match between Cardiff City and Manchester City at Cardiff City Stadium on September 22, 2018 in Cardiff, United Kingdom.

(Sept. 21, 2018 - Source: Stu Forster/Getty Images Europe)

Pep Guardiola’s men thumped the home team by five goals to nil and the Algerian international made a mark in this game. Mahrez scored two goals on the day which are his first goals for the Premier League champions.

Manchester United vs Wolverhampton Wanderers (Saturday, 22 September 2018)

Ivorian centre back Eric Bailly’s struggles continued as he was benched again on Saturday when the Manchester club played Wolves. The defender was not available to help his team who were disappointing in front of their fans at the “Theater of Dreams”. It was also Sir Alex Ferguson’s first appearance back at the club since being discharged from the hospital. United drew 0-0 with Wolves.

Liverpool vs Southampton (Saturday, 22 September 2018)

It was the Cameroonian international, Joel Matip’s debut for the season as his club took on the Saints. He marked his return to the first team with a goal on the 21st minute courtesy of a brilliantly taken corner kick by Trent Alexander Arnold.

Also, another African player made it on the scoresheet for Liverpool. English Premier League top goal scorer for the 2017/18 season, Mohamed Salah, scored Liverpool’s third in a 3-0 victory against Van Dijk’s old club. This result means that Liverpool maintain their perfect start to the season with five straight victories in the league. Watch out for the African connection at this club!

Joel Matip of Liverpool celebrates after scoring his team's second goal during the Premier League match between Liverpool FC and Southampton FC at Anfield on September 22, 2018 in Liverpool, United Kingdom.

(Sept. 21, 2018 - Source: Alex Livesey/Getty Images Europe)

Brighton vs Tottenham (Saturday, 22 September 2018)

Tottenham grinded out a 2-1 win away from home. The main highlight from this match for us was the fact that Vincent Wanyama did not play yet again. The African player seems to have fallen out of favor at the London club which raises questions about his future. The Kenyan midfielder is too talented to be wasted on the bench at any club having been denied the opportunity to get some game time in the UEFA Champions League opener against Inter Milan.

Lucas Moura and VIctor Wanyama of Tottenham Hotspur FC play around while visting Venice Beach on July 24, 2018 in Venice, California.

(July 23, 2018 - Source: Jayne Kamin-Oncea/Getty Images North America)

West Ham vs Chelsea (Sunday, 23 September 2018)

We were keen to see two African players in action, with DR Congo international, Masuaku playing in his preferred left back role for West Ham United as well as Victor Moses being preferred on the right hand side of an attacking three for Chelsea. It was unfortunate to see Sari rotating that position bringing on William ahead of the Nigerian international who recently announced his retirement with an intention to focus on his career with Chelsea. Both teams had little to separate them as the game ended in another goalless draw.

Arsenal vs Everton (Sunday, 23 September 2018)

Gabonese international striker, Pierre Emerick Aubameyang continued his goal scoring form for Arsenal as he scored the second goal for the club in a 2-0 victory against Everton. The first was scored by fellow striker, Alexandre Lacazette who has formed a bromance with the former Borussia Dortmund and AC Milan striker. Nigerian midfielder, Alex Iwobi could only come off the bench for Aubameyang after his stellar performances in mid week where he was by far the man of the Match for Arsenal in the UEFA Europa League match against Vorskla Poltava.

FT Hidden Gem Series: On the rise, Senegal's Ismaila Sarr

“Sarr’s fast. He’s Mane fast. It must be a Senegalese thing. ”

— Tinotenda Magiya, FirstTouch Africa

Remember the world cup star boy? The name that people were looking forward to behold when Senegal played ought to be the Liverpool forward, Sadio Mane, but the African team had much more to offer in terms of depth with the young winger, Ismaila Sarr, stealing the show. The young forward was a surprise starter in the team ahead of the highly rated Keita Balde Diao and he never disappointed. His work-rate on the right flank warranted him a special mention in FirstTouch’s Hidden Gem Series. In this one, we catch up with what the player has been up to as well as making mention of the things that you might not have known about the player before his bow at the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia.

UEFA Europa League Stunner

Metz' Senegalese midfielder Ismaila Sarr (R) vies for the ball with Caen's French midfielder Julien Feret during the French L1 football match between Metz (FCM) and Caen (SMC) on April 15, 2017 at Saint Symphorien stadium in Longeville-Les-Metz, eastern France. . / AFP PHOTO / Jean Christophe VERHAEGEN

(April 14, 2017 - Source: AFP)

On Thursday, 20th of September, Ismaila star made the headlines for scoring a stunner in a UEFA Europa League match between his club, Stade Rennais and FK Jablonec. He received the ball on the left wing before playing a one two with a player in front of the arch before rifling in a short from 25 yards out which landed in the top right corner. There was only so much the keeper could do to stop Sarr’s opener. His club went on to win the match 2-1 thanks to another goal scored by Hartem Ben Arfa, another French player with African roots.

His start to the 2018/19 season

Sarr’s star has not been shy of goals having already scored 2 in the French Ligue 1 in just four starts. That’s an average of a goal in every 180 minutes. That is not actually a bad return for a 20-year old player still trying to find his feet at a new club which he moved to a little over a year ago. The Senegalese international is set to take Europe by storm having seen how other young players like Kylian Mbappe have developed their skills in the same league and have gone on to join Paris Saint Germain in a record breaking deal for a teenager. This should serve as enough motivation to up his game and impress Europe’s bigger sisters who can take his game to the next level. The player, however, looks happy and settled in Sabri Lamouchi’s team which is a positive for the club if they are to bring the best out of the African. The UEFA Europa League fixtures for Stade Rennais will be a priceless opportunity to see the young talent as he fares against some better opponents from across Europe. Fingers crossed that he won’t get any bad injuries which tend to slow most players’ progress.

Sarr’s Roots

Ismaila Sarr of Senegal and Juan Quintero of Colombia in action 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: Maddie Meyer/Getty Images Europe)

You must be curious to find out how these amazing talents are identified, developed, and scouted to play for such teams. Ismaila Sarr was born in Saint-Louis, Senegal. He started his career at Generation Foot, a Senegalese football club in 2009. The player then signed for FC Metz, a French team in Ligue 2 on 13 July 2016. The skills he possessed in his locker could not allow him to respect his 5-year contract with the club as Stade Rennais came calling for his services just a year later. He has been with the club ever since.

What you need to know about him?

1. Sarr’s fast. He’s Mane fast. It must be a Senegalese thing.

2. The youngster is hard working. He has the energy to drop back and help out the defenders when out of possession.

3. He’s unorthodox. Sarr is unpredictable sometimes when in possession but that does not take away his quality contribution to the team.

4. He’s young which means there is a lot more to come from him.

FirstTouch sheds the light on the African players that seem to be under the radar. Sarr’s the latest. Follow him in his career as he plays for Stade Rennais and the Senegalese national team.

Reminiscing the globetrotting career of Kevin Prince-Boateng

“After playing for ten European clubs across the Bundesliga, English Premier League ,and the Italian Serie A, he is still going and doesn’t look like he will hang his boots anytime soon.”

— Tinotenda Magiya, FirstTouch Africa

There is so much to talk about when it comes to the career of the peculiar Ghanaian, Kevin Prince Boateng. Who does not remember his days at AC Milan when he played with Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Robinho and crew or his heroic efforts at the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa where Ghana proudly carried the weight of the entire continent on its shoulders. The half-brother to the German footballer, Jerome Boateng, has enjoyed an illustrious career but it was not all rainbows and unicorns. The player came from humble beginnings and faced many setbacks to be where he is today. This is the untold story of an African child and star, Kevin Prince Boateng.

Humble Beginnings

Kevin-Prince Boateng of AC Milan wears th jersey against racism during the Serie A match between AC Milan and AC Siena at San Siro Stadium on January 6, 2013 in Milan, Italy.

(Jan. 5, 2013 - Source: Paolo Bruno/Getty Images Europe)

The Ghanaian international was born in Germany and started his career at Hertha Berlin. He was not quite an early bloomer as he made his first team debut at the age of 20. He later moved to Tottenham in a deal reported to be worth £5.4million. His success at the club was limited and got loaned to Borussia Dortmund in 2009 where he had a decent showing in front of the Dortmund fans. Financial constraints meant that the club could not secure his services on a permanent basis which later saw him moving to Portsmouth.

Portsmouth Days

It was at Portsmouth that he started showing signs of a potential World Cup player despite his issues with anger management. Although he led his club to the FA Cup final, he also went on to injure Michael Ballack’s ankle in retaliation to a slap that he claimed to have received from German international who was at Chelsea at the time. That is the incident that made him unpopular among the German fans. Kevin Prince-Boateng then moved to Genoa in 2010 who immediately loaned him to AC Milan who made it permanent a year later.

The Big Move

The move to Milan is what brought attention to an attacking prodigy that had been flying under the radar. In the past decade, not many Africans were being trusted in that Number 10 role that players like Mesut Ozil have made a name for themselves in. It's quite difficult to remember one who played in that position aside from Kevin Prince. Since then, only Younes Belhanda and Ziyech are the notable Africans who have played as an attacking midfielder in Europe. Boateng  became a highlight reel at the club where he won the Italian Serie A in the 2010/11 season before following that up with the Super Coppa Italiana later that year.

Fight against Racism

Kevin Prince Boateng and Jonathan Mensah of Ghana challenge Jozy Altidore of the United States during the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa Round of Sixteen match between USA and Ghana at Royal Bafokeng Stadium on June 26, 2010 in Rustenburg, South Africa.

(June 25, 2010 - Source: Stuart Franklin/Getty Images Europe)

Several Milan players were the targets of racial chants from a section of the Pro Patria crowd in a friendly match back in 2013. The former Ghanaian international reacted by kicking the ball into the stands before leaving the pitch, and his teammates followed him off.

Life after Milan

Boateng has always been on the move as he has played for FC Schalke, Las Palmas, Eintracht Frankfurt and Sassuolo since his departure from Milan in 2013. He, however, had a brief spell when he returned to the Italian club in 2016 but it was short lived as his contract was canceled by the club by mutual consent. Kevin is still pretty much an active footballer wearing the Sassuolo colors and turned 31 in March. After playing for ten European clubs across the Bundesliga, English Premier League and Italian Serie A, he is still going and doesn’t look like he will hang his boots soon.

What’s your favorite memory of Kevin Prince-Boateng?

Ghezzal and Seri, two match winners to watch out for this Premier League weekend

“It’s all about building up that confidence and getting some look good statistics next to their names now and forever. This weekend is one such opportunity, will the sons of the African soil in Ghezzal and Seri seize the opportunity...”

— Dennis Takaendesa, FirstTouch Africa

Confidence is just as important or even more important than talent in football. It’s almost the singular attribute that is directly correlated to superior performance. For instance, Arsenal’s Iwobi is looking a different player under Unai Emery even though we had always known the Nigerian is a top talent. Confidence is paying off huge dividends. Leicester City’s replacement to Algerian Riyad Mahrez who left for Premier League champions Man City, Rachid Ghezzal is one player who can get a few more good performances under his belt and finally settle in his new EPL surroundings after arriving from Monaco in the summer. Fulham’s Jean Michel Seri is undoubtedly the conductor of their orchestra and has pulled off some interesting performances this campaign. As both Leicester City and Fulham face-off opposition outside the big six this weekend, it’s all to play for and the coronation of these playmakers with some look good stats could be in sight.

Rachid Ghezzal

Rachid Ghezzal of Leicester City (left) celebrates with team mate Vicente Iborra of Leicester City (right) after scoring his team's fourth goal during the Carabao Cup Second Round match between Leicester City and Fleetwood Town at The King Power Stadium on August 28, 2018 in Leicester, England.

(Aug. 27, 2018 - Source: Michael Regan/Getty Images Europe)

Yes, the 26-year-old Algerian international is just as left-footed as Mahrez and inherited his place in the 2014/15 Premier League champions’ setup but he is his own player. Comparisons between him and Mahrez will get even louder and Ghezzal will surely be focused on one thing at this point in his career, being at his best. It did not quite work out for him with his previous employers as he managed eleven goals in 87 Lyon appearances, only two for Monaco in 26 appearances before Leicester captured him for £10 million in the summer. He is however an undisputable talent, comfortable on the ball, with a sharp left foot always enabling him to cut inside when playing on the right wing to get some goals or set up teammates. He is also more physical than Mahrez, one attribute that makes it inevitable for him to cope with the intensity of the premier league. He got his dream start to life in England with a goal against EPL leaders Liverpool in a 2-1 loss at the King Power but was just as fault as all the other Leicester players in 4-2 loss to Bournemouth last weekend. With Leicester City desperate to comeback to winning ways when they welcome 18th placed Huddersfield Town, Ghezzal will surely be instrumental if they are to get something out of the match. It’s a match they fancy themselves winning and one that Ghezzal perhaps believe will be a real confidence boost as he builds upon his manager, Claude Puel’s confidence in him as a player offering something different to the Foxes set up.

Jean Michael Seri

The Ivorian is no stranger to starring roles. He was OGC Nice’s starman from 2015 throughout to 2018 after he was signed from Portuguese side Pacos De Ferreira. He was so good in the French Ligue 1 that a proposed €40 million move to Barcelona failed by a whisker. He was widely viewed as a player to help fill the void left by Barca legend Andres Iniesta. Premier League new boys, Fulham won his signature ahead of the likes of Chelsea, Arsenal and Tottenham simply because the 27-year-old felt like the Craven Cottagers were more serious in their approach to land the midfielder. He is up and running early after winning the Premier League Goal of the Month for August, for a stunner he bagged in a Fulham’s 4-2 victory over Burnely and a top drawer assist for Andre Schurrle’s goal at Brighton. He was missing in the Whites last outing at Manchester City, in a performance that was headlined his error that led to City’s first goal within ninety seconds of kick-off. He has been featured as one of the hardworking midfielders currently in the English top flight and the Watford match on Saturday at home that kicks off the Premier League weekend is one he will be looking to run and quickly get back to his best. Watford have however proven to be a tricky opposition, winning four of their first five premier league matches. It will undoubtedly be an interesting battle in the midfield against the likes of Abdoulaye Doucoure.

It’s all about building up that confidence and getting some look good statistics next to their names now and forever. This weekend is one such opportunity, will the sons of the African soil in Ghezzal and Seri seize the opportunity and be the match-winners they have always been yet again?

Liverpool's FAB 3 predatory reign is just getting started

Preamble

Lionel Messi of FC Barcelona celebrates with Luis Suarez and Neymar after scoring his team's 2nd goal during the La Liga match between Rayo Vallecano and FC Barcelona at Estadio de Vallecas on March 3, 2016 in Madrid, Spain.

(Jan. 8, 2009 - Source: Denis Doyle/Getty Images Europe)

Those who took the liberty to gather the spoils on Tuesday, UEFA Champions League night at Anfield will tell you that Liverpool plundered the Parisians and made their coveted and expensively assembled squad look like knock-offs from a cheap store. Okay, maybe the description is a bit exaggerated but that’s exactly what I thought, jaw dropped as the Reds ran out 3-2 victorious against PSG on Champions League Day 1 in a dominant performance decorated by the men in red but in the stands’ “you never will walk alone” spirit packaged in a song-like noises while the visitors lit flames as they tried to settle in an unfamiliar hostile Anfield environment.  What really was on my mind as the referee blew the final whistle to signal the end of the match was, “Salah and Mane are onto something special here. They could go down in history as flanks of the most devastating attack in world football”. My African blood couldn’t help but selfishly feel proud for the lads.

Great attacking trios in recent times

Well, you probably won’t exhaust the list but names that cannot be robbed of a mention include Barcelona’s MSN with Messi, Suarez and Neymar who led Barca’s capture of the Champions League, La Liga and Copa Del Rey trophies under Luis Enrique in the 2014/15 season. El Clasico rivals Real Madrid also had BBC with Bale, Benzema and Cristiano Ronaldo who were regular Champions League entertainers especially in their recent three straight conquest of the competition before Ronaldo departed for Serie A giants, Juventus. PSG’s “prada” looking MEN with Mbappe, Edinson Cavani and Neymar have been bullying opponents in the French Ligue 1 but got a taste of their own medicine against part of the FAB 3, Salah, Firmino and Mane. Liverpool’s attacking trio may not have costed big money to put in place but are really claiming a stake at global dominance. Here is a number for you; in May 2017, the FAB 3 Became the highest scoring trio in a single UCL campaign with a total of 29 goals surpassing Real Madrid’s BBC who had a record 28 goals. With growth inevitable, the extent of the FAB 3’s reign is unimaginable?

“Clearly, these two can understand each other more. If they can be devastating at this level, imagine the damage they could do if the bromance improves. With Roberto Firmino being the anchor of this cutting edge trio, the slower of the two players who holds up the ball and shoves defenders for the flankers in Mane and Salah to run down the wings and inside the box - we are in for a real treat.”

— Dennis Takaendesa, FirstTouch Africa

26 is the magic number

Roberto Firmino of Liverpool celebrates after scoring his team's second goal with Mohamed Salah of Liverpool during the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool FC at Wembley Stadium on September 15, 2018 in London, United Kingdom.

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

Now make no mistake, Salah and Mane were far below they usual standard in the PSG contest on Tuesday night with both of them failing to find the back of the net but what we saw from the match revealed a lot about how much they can grow and win even bigger battles. In particular, Mane appeared to be too keen to score such that at times he would shoot when the best decision would have been laying off the ball to a teammate. Salah happened to be a regular victim of such decisions. There are reports that even the Egyptian fans are not happy with their starman being starved off goals because of a supposed dysfunctional relationship with the Senegalese. Clearly, these two can understand each other more. If they can be devastating at this level, imagine the damage they could do if the bromance improves. With Roberto Firmino being the anchor of this cutting edge trio, the slower of the two players who holds up the ball and shoves defenders for the flankers in Mane and Salah to run down the wings and inside the box - we are in for a real treat. To add to their ability, Liverpool’s trio still has more time to show the world what they are all about. They are all still 26, a prime age in football and relatively young compared to other trios. If the doubters thought Liverpool’s Champions League final appearance was a fluke, their recent dominance in the Premier League was infant then perhaps the Tuesday night win against one of the celebrated teams in the world in PSG showed that they are really open for business and that their attackers are not shy to shop anywhere, anytime and from anyone.

Sadio Mane of Liverpool reacts 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)

Klopp, the key orchestrator

In most cases, the challenges have always been to keep the trio, that is to ward off interest from any potential suitors seeking some members of the trio and to distribute the pressure from just the trio to the whole team.

Salah, Mane and Firmino have entertained us, maybe have even just begun and all media eyes and any other eyes are likely to narrow down to only their performances. This usually adds unnecessary pressure on the players to deliver all the time which is next to impossible. Liverpool Manager, Jurgen Klopp seem to know one or two things about managing players and expectations. With his midfield set-up also able to bang in goals in Keita, Milner and Wijnaldum and excess world class attackers in Shaqiri and Daniel Sturridge, you would really back the German to always do the right thing by taking some players off the firing line and mix up the recipe as he did against PSG to preserve the potency of the entire team.

Whether or not the Merseyside club would be able to retain the services of all three for the forseeable future is really down to the future when it arrives. Only time will tell. For now, we will just sit back, relax and enjoy Salah and Mane, African brothers who are protagonists in the world conquering trio that is FAB THREE.

South Africa: PSL's "Shakespeare," Steve Komphela, may finally win silverware

A surprisingly trophyless career

Pitso Mosimane and Steve Komphela during the 2014 FIFA World Cup Qualifier match between South Africa and Ethiopia at Royal Bafokeng Stadium on June 03, 2012 in Rustenburg, South Africa.

(June 2, 2012 - Source: Gallo Images/Getty Images Europe)

A man popular for his touchline match analysis and fatherly advice to football players, Steve Komphela is as unique as they come. The former Kaizer Chiefs  mentor has endured some tough times in his coaching career, particularly during his time with the mighty Amakhosi but he now looks like he’s on the rise again.

“Bra Steve” as fondly known by many, has come under severe scrutiny so far as his coaching credentials are concerned. During his time at Kaizer Chiefs, Komphela was unable to salvage any cup or league glory for one of the PSL’s big boys. This made him unpopular amongst the Amakhosi faithful, causing the team’s fans to riot every other match calling for the coach’s sacking. It eventually came. What’s more, Komphela has coached a few other Absa Premier Soccer league sides such as Free State Stars, Platinum Stars and Maritzburg United and is still yet to win any silverware. Such a bad record has earned Komphela an unlikeable reputation as many consider him to be an average coach and will remain so until he actually wins something.

Take nothing away from Bra Steve, I consider him to be one of the vastly experienced local coaches in South Africa. Unfortunately, being at a team like Kaizer Chiefs came with high expectations that the 50-year old tactician couldn’t meet. Being trophyless for three consecutive seasons at a team as big as Chiefs is not something easily acceptable especially by the supporters. While others believe the coach was often times than not eluded by mother luck, things were just not falling into place for Bra Steve. His history for not winning any silverware didn't make things easier for him and many thought that misfortune was seemingly following him during his stay at Amakhosi.

“His mastery of the English language is second to none. In almost all of the post match interviews, he is seldom relenting to drop some words of unpopular wisdom in a serious manner that comes across as humorous. His use of rare english words and philosophical quotes can only be comprehended by few but widely accepted by all.”

— Siphosethu Thwala, FirstTouch Africa

Having recently moved on from Amakhosi in the summer, Komphela was snatched by a Free State side, Bloemfontein Celtic to spearhead the team in the recently started ABSA premiership season. In what has been a terrific start for the team, under Komphela’s management, Celtic have amassed a total of 13 points from the first 5 games of the season, only dropping points against Komphela’s former employers in Chiefs during a 2-2 draw. This excellent run has set tongues wagging from the football fraternity and many have started believing that perhaps Komphela might be onto something here. To crown him for the glittering start to the 2017/18 season, Komphela was awarded the Absa Premiership Coach of the month for August. With Celtic looking like a well-oiled machine that is on a roll, this can probably be the season where Komphela finally breaks his duck and salvages some silverware in his cup-shy coaching career. However it should also be noted that it is still early in the season and a lot could still happen. Nonetheless, the signs are there and certainly football fans have noticed Steve’s “comeback mission” judging from his team’s performances.

He is probably not the first unsuccessful coach, why feature him?

Outside the pitch, Komphela is your “Shakespeare” of the Absa Premiership. His mastery of the English language is second to none. In almost all of the post match interviews, he is seldom relenting to drop some words of unpopular wisdom in a serious manner that comes across as humorous. His use of rare english words and philosophical quotes can only be comprehended by few but widely accepted by all. That’s typical vintage Komphela for you and it is in such moments that make him a popular figure in the football circles of Southern Africa. Being one of the most experienced coaches in South Africa, one would think it is only a matter of time before we see Komphela lift some silverware that has long eluded him. The breezing start to the season with Phunya Sele sele (Bloemfontein Celtic) seems to suggest that. Whether Celtic can go all the way remains to be seen. Can Steve do it? Is he the real deal? You decide.