Why a Hazard move to Real Madrid makes sense this summer

“For starters Hazard has won everything that is there for the taking in the English Premier League. He has won two premier league titles, one FA Cup and two league cups with the Blues.”

— Siphosethu Thwala, FirstTouch Africa

Eden Hazard is a wanted man, for his impeccable football talent that is. For a long time now, news of Hazard being linked with a transfer from Chelsea to Real Madrid have been making the rounds. Considered by most to be the best player in the premier league. Eden Hazard has proven his worth in the most competitive league in worldwide football and now might be the right time for him to take his career to the next stage.

For starters Hazard has won everything that is there for the taking in the English premier League. He has won two premier league titles, one FA Cup and two league cups with the Blues. Not only that, Hazard has also won the PFA Player of the year award during the 2014-2015 season. Nonetheless, Hazard is still missing a UEFA Champions league medal in his list of accolades, and with Real Madrid having dominated Europe the way they have over the last three seasons, it would make sense why the 28-year old could go to Madrid as chances of him getting his hands onto the Champions league trophy might be more realistic in Los Blancos’ white.

Eden Hazard of Chelsea applauds fans after the Premier League match between Southampton FC and Chelsea FC at St Mary's Stadium on October 7, 2018 in Southampton, United Kingdom.

(Oct. 6, 2018 - Source: Mike Hewitt/Getty Images Europe)

Chelsea are sitting in sixth position in the Premier League and face an uphill battle in earning a place in the very competitive top four race. This means that they are most likely to miss out on a UEFA champions league spot, unless they win the Europa League. What’s more, Hazard will be entering the final year of his contract with the blues next season, and with the club not showing strong intentions of keeping him, perhaps selling him at the end of this season might make financial sense compared to losing him on a free next summer.

Real Madrid on the other hand, are facing a major overhaul in the summer, with Zinedine Zidane reported to have been handed a handsome £300m transfer kitty to spend on revamping the ageing squad.  At present, the team comprises of many players who are on the wrong side of 30 and in the twilight of their careers. Players such as Luka Modric, Marcelo, Sergio Ramos, Karim Benzema only but to name a few. Furthermore, from an offensive standpoint, Madrid have run dry of goals due to Ronaldo’s departure, and with Bale not likely to be the main figure, it becomes apparent that the team needs a star player that can get them the goals as well as create chances for the side. Hazard ticks both boxes. Thus, in order to bounce back from a disastrous season, Madrid are most certainly going to be very active in the transfer market and Hazard may be the main target for the club.

Considering the above, making a move to La Liga would be the noble thing to do for Hazard. For starters, he would be fulfilling his dream of always wanting to play for Real Madrid. Moreover, this move would help him have a shot at challenging for the coveted Balon d’Or award which has become rather elusive for most players. Most football fans are aware of the immense talent that Hazard has, some even arguing that it is worthy to rival the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi both who for the past eleven years, have shared the Ballon d’Or equally amongst themselves. Now, with Hazard hitting his prime age, being at the Santiago Bernabeu would most certainly boost his chances of competing for the prize provided he adapts well and faster to Spanish football.

Aubameyang vs Koulibaly: The fate of the furious

For years, the UEFA Europa League has been counted as a second fiddle tournament with little to offer in terms of excitement to the biggest of European clubs. Gone are the days when the tournament was looked down upon and now the level of competition in different leagues has improved, forcing clubs like Arsenal, Chelsea and Napoli to participate in the tournament. The UEFA Europa League draw was held on Friday, 12 March, 2019 and it presented one of the biggest showdowns of the competition, let alone in Europe. Arsenal was matched up with Naples’ Napoli, a fixture that both teams were hoping to avoid. We look into it, focusing on the two best players from the two teams. Arsenal’s striker versus Napoli’s defender. It’s Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang versus Kalidou Koulibaly. Check this out.

“ If Aubameyang is the Black Panther, then Koulibaly has to be the Killmonger to the story because the battle boils down to these two. Who will take the throne when these two meet? ”

— Tinotenda Magiya, FirstTouch Africa

As expected, Pierre Emerick Aubameyang is Arsenal’s top goal scorer at this stage of the season with 21 goals in all competitions with 4 being from the UEFA Europa League tournament. He has been used interchangeably with Alexandre Lacazette but still has the knack for goals and delivers under pressure. It is expected that he will bring his A game against the monstrous beast of a defender in Kalidou Koulibaly.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang of Arsenal celebrates after scoring his team's second goal during the Premier League match between Cardiff City and Arsenal FC at Cardiff City Stadium on September 2, 2018 in Cardiff, United Kingdom.

(Sept. 1, 2018 - Source: Catherine Ivill/Getty Images Europe)

In the same vein, Koulibaly has been a leader from the back at the Naples club. Koulibaly is raking up an average of 4 clearances and 2.3 blocks per match in this competition. He will be looking to shutout the goal threat in the Gabonese International who is proving a nuisance to defenders in every league he goes to. This could be a true test for both.

Also, if you had not picked it up already, both players hail from the land of Africa. Pierre Emerick Aubameyang leads the frontline for Gabon while Koulibaly takes up defensive duties for Senegal. Both players will be looking to compete for a title as they warm up for this year's African Cup of Nations 2019 tournament to be held in Egypt. Amongst them, could be a possible African Player of the Year if they do well in both ties as well as putting in stellar performances in Africa's finest tournament. I wouldn't want to miss this.

Finally, their personalities are quite the opposite. They remind me of the debate about Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. One is more quiet and less expressive on the pitch with the other taking pride in making headlines from controversial goal celebrations. Koulibaly is a more reserved guy who lets his defending do the talking. He is someone who easily stands out in a match with his presence and contribution in the first third of the pitch. Whereas, Aubameyang has some fine goals in his locker which he often celebrates with a front-flip or pulling out some super-hero mask. Recently, the Arsenal striker pulled out the mask of the Black Panther and celebrated his goal in wakanda-style. If Aubameyang is the Black Panther, then Koulibaly has to be the Killmonger to the story because the battle boils down to these two. Who will take the throne when these two meet?

I think Arsenal vs Napoli came too soon but it will be a great spectacle. Especially to see these two players go toe to toe against each other in their quest for titles. My bet is on Aubameyang. Where is yours?

Senegal's Mane delivering the goods just when Liverpool needs him to

With the season hitting its penultimate moments, encompassed by an avalanche of fixtures and weariness of players, for teams that are competing for honors, it is crucial that there are players hitting top form to help their teams challenge for silverware in various tournaments. It is no different for English side Liverpool, who have for lengthy periods of this season, shown immense potential of being the favorites to wrestle for the English Premier League title with Manchester City. For Liverpool, their forward trident of Mo Salah, Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mane have often times than not, been the ones producing the goods all season. The latter however has been the one hogging headlines in recent times. The in-form front man has been Klopp’s go-to guy since the turn of the year, and going into the climax of the season, Mane surely seems to be hitting form when it matters the most.

“Liverpool will be banking on Mane to keep delivering the goods and ultimately end the Red’s title drought. If he manages to maintain the momentum he’s in right now, the walking nightmare could turn back into a dreamland paradise at Merseyside (unless, of course, you’re an Everton fan.)”

— Siphosethu Thwala, FirstTouch Africa

Roberto Firmino of Liverpool celebrates after scoring his team's second goal with Sadio Mane during the Premier League match between Leicester City and Liverpool FC at The King Power Stadium on September 1, 2018 in Leicester, United Kingdom.

(Aug. 31, 2018 - Source: Shaun Botterill/Getty Images Europe)

Mane’s latest escapades came in the recent UEFA Champions League round of 16 second leg  fixture. The 26-year old stepped up to be counted and netted a brace in the 3-1 win over Bayern Munich to help send the Reds into the quarter-finals of the UCL. Mane confounded the Bayern defense and left football lovers reconsidering their assertion of rating Manuel Neuer as the world’s best goalkeeper.

Mané has been a machine since late January. Since Liverpool’s match against Crystal Palace on the 19th day of the year to now, he’s scored 11 goals in 11 matches across all competitions, most of those coming from high-pressure situations. His goals against Leicester City and West Ham salvaged crucial points for Jurgen Klopp’s men, while his last four games have featured three, two-goal games. In the process, he’s not only managed to keep the Merseysiders daring to dream of a possible league and Champions league double, he’s also forced his way up the Premier League goal scoring charts. He is tied in second position with 17 goals together with Salah, Harry Kane and Arsenal’s Aubameyang, just one behind leader Sergio Agüero’s 18.

While Liverpool’s other scoring options have been faltering in the team’s current stretch of grinded results, Mané has turned a corner at the perfect time and certainly appears to be enjoying his shine. Going into the last 8 matches of the Premier League, as well as the Champions League quarter finals match-up against FC Porto, Liverpool will be banking on Mane to keep delivering the goods and ultimately end the Red’s title drought. If he manages to maintain the momentum he’s in right now, the walking nightmare could turn back into a dreamland paradise at Merseyside (unless, of course, you’re an Everton fan.)

The recurring and disturbing horror of footballers’ relatives kidnapped for ransom

“A footballer’s salary is often an upwards of 5 figures every week, added to it, the fact that their earnings are made public, they will continue to be at risk of being victims of thieves and criminals. ”

— Margaret Mandeya, FirstTouch Africa

It’s difficult to imagine the horror of receiving a phone call from home informing you that your loved one has been kidnapped while you are halfway across the world. This is fast becoming the reality for some of Nigeria’s most prominent footballers. The latest case in a series of organised kidnappings of the relatives of Nigerian players is that of Bordeaux winger, Samuel Kalu’s mother.

Kalu’s mother was abducted on the 27th of February in Abia and released after 6 days. Ozuruonye Juliet Kalu’s gun-wielding kidnappers ambushed her whilst she was driving home and demanded a ransom of USD 138,000 when they found out about her son’s professional footballer status. The 21-year-old who joined Bordeaux in August 2018, on a five-year contract with the Ligue 1 team paid the ransom to ensure the safe return of his mother.

Joseph Yobo of Nigeria is dejected after the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa Group B match between Greece and Nigeria at the Free State Stadium on June 17, 2010 in Mangaung/Bloemfontein, South Africa.

(June 16, 2010 - Source: Stuart Franklin/Getty Images Europe)

Abia State Police have announced that investigations are being made to identify the kidnappers and bring them to justice. Sadly, kidnappings are becoming more frequent in Nigeria and the phenomenon has spread more than can be accidental. John Mikel Obi’s father has been the victim of kidnapping twice. The first incident occurred in 2011 after which he was released safely from his captures. In June 2018, in what can only be described as a nightmare, Mr Michael Obi was kidnapped for the second time in seven years.

The Nigerian captain received the news of his father’s abduction moments before the Super Eagles faced Argentina in the group stages in Russia, during the 2018 World Cup, news he said he kept from his teammates. Fortunately, Mikel Obi’s father was rescued by the Enugu State Police during which the police and the kidnappers engaged in a gun battle.

Former Everton player, Joseph Yobo's brother was kidnapped by gunmen in July 2008 and was released two weeks later. It turned out that the people who had organised the abduction of Norum Yobo were close family friends. According to Yobo, the ordeal was frightening. He stated in a 2009 interview, "I was terrified the police would get involved. I had to make them understand that sometimes you have to let other people deal with it another way.”

Reports suggest that kidnapping is a big business in Nigeria with some prominent politicians and businessmen involved in ransom kidnappings. Wealthy people are a target for these kidnapping rings and football players are at great risk of having their family members abducted because of their financial capabilities. The problem is very big and the kidnappings of  famous football players’ family members are bringing attention to the extent of this crisis. The police have been trying to crack down on the kidnapping rings in the country and particularly in the southern part of Nigeria but the people behind these activities are still at large.

A footballer’s salary is often an upwards of 5 figures every week, added to it, the fact that their earnings are made public, they will continue to be at risk of being victims of thieves and criminals.

Samuel Kalu who is currently injured will miss Nigeria’s two matches against Seychelles and Egypt. He is set to be replaced by Ikouwen Udoh when the Super Eagles take on Seychelles in an African Cup of Nations qualifier and a friendly against Egypt in Abasa on the 22nd and 26th of March.

Bale in limbo upon Zidane's return to the Real Madrid touchline

When Zidane returned to the touchline last Saturday, the fans received him with mixed feelings. The welcome was good, but of course, it could have been great. Many fans are not convinced he deserves all the credit for Real Madrid’s three consecutive title triumphs or whether Ronaldo had done all by himself. The fans have all the luxury to be casually uncertain about him, but as for Bale, the stakes are much higher for him. Coming from a history of being left out of the coach’s most preferred list, what does Zizou’s return really mean for him?

Gareth Bale of Real Madrid looks on during the La Liga m atch between Real Madrid CF and Levante UD at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on October 20, 2018 in Madrid, Spain.

(Oct. 19, 2018 - Source: Denis Doyle/Getty Images Europe)

He might just leave

Zidane has expressed interest to sell the player or at least swap him for Chelsea’s Eden Hazard. According to him, Bale has so much potential that is only encouragement and passion away from being fully realised. Unfortunately, he is not the man to do that for him. The player’s agent said he is willing to be at the club for the rest of his career, but someone’s stay is only worth it while they are still needed. If the coach feels like he might be better off somewhere else, maybe that is what might just happen. This move has also been fuelled by critics who believe that Real Madrid generally, is not the best place for him to shine at, as he is the type of player that requires a lot of space on the pitch to shine. However, the team does not play like that. It uses a very close-knit kind of style. The challenge, however, is how expensive the player will be for other clubs. At this point in his career, not many teams can afford to pay “75m euros for him and the 12m euros net he is earning at the moment”.

They might all grow together

Upon his return, Zidane was quoted saying he will not talk about the player in isolation, because he is “counting on him like everyone else”. He says his eyes are fixed on the matches ahead and finishing the season strong. This might mean that he is willing to invest in players’ (even Bale) growth to make this possible. This means all past biases might be put aside for the bigger goal ahead of them. Even though many think that Zidane’s return spells doom for Bale, they might just be up for a great shock. He assured everyone that “Gareth, you all know what type of player he is, someone I will use just like everybody else. I'm going to end up repeating myself a lot. We are prepared for tomorrow and Gareth is ready for it too," said Zidane. As luck would have it, the 29-year-old Welshman ended up scoring in Zidane’s return debut, in Madrid’s 2-0 win over Celta Vigo.

Zidane just returned and drawing a conclusion of what this means for Bale might be a bit too early. It could just go sour until they part ways or this might just be the time when they work so well that the past becomes nothing, but a growth curve. Let us step back and see what the remaining 10 games have in store.

Emmanuel Frimpong: The end of a chapter

He’s a name not on everyone’s lips. In fact, he might not be on everyone’s mind when you think about the talents that Africa has produced in the past decade. Emmanuel Frimpong is a Ghanaian international who low-key graced the European scene and played in the English Premier League, Russian Premier League, Cypriot First Division and even appeared in the Swedish League. The African player has been unfortunate to join the list of football players that are forced into retirement due to injury. Here’s a snippet of the player’s journey thus far.

Early career: Arsenal

Emmanuel Frimpong of FC Ufa in action during the Russian Premier League match between PFC CSKA Moscow and FC Ufa at the Arena Khimki Stadium on November 29, 2014 in Khimki, Russia.

(Nov. 28, 2014 - Source: Epsilon/Getty Images Europe)

Emmanuel Frimpong is a product of Arsenal’s Hale End academy where he rubbed shoulders with the likes of Jack Wilshere in the junior leagues before his colleague made a quick transition to first team football as soon as he turned 16. Frimpong was made to wait for his opportunity under Arsene Wenger with the midfield packed with internationals offering a wide range of skills and talent. The defensive midfielder could only manage a total of 16 first team appearances including a notable night in Reading where the gunners made a miraculous come-back to win 7-5 after having been four goals down in a Carling Cup fixture. Seeing his colleagues progressing in their careers whilst he was on the sidelines could not cut it for the ambitious youngster, so he decided to leave Arsenal at the age of 24.

Injury plagued career

It is no surprise that he struggled to succeed at Arsenal considering the fact that he suffered two major injuries which disrupted his progress. Frimpong suffered an Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) damage in one of his knees which haunted him throughout his career. This could only mean that the player was not able to give his best thus being shipped off to other leagues and clubs. In the end, the player has represented Charlton, Barnsley, Fulham, Ufa, AFC Eskilstuna and Ermis in his short time in football. However, it might have been a different tale had he sworn allegiance to England.

Switching allegiance to Ghana

Although the player was born in Kumasi, Ghana, he had the opportunity to choose England as his national team. It could only make sense considering that he had represented them at various youth levels while he was part of the Arsenal team that won the FA Youth Cup and two Premier Academy League titles. Just like any other English player, Frimpong was hyped up and being mooted to be the next Paul Scholes. Instead, Frimpong aspired to play for his native home, Ghana and he was quoted to having said, “I have always told my family that if Ghana calls me, I will personally ride my own bicycle from England to Ghana [to play for the Black Stars]”. He did not care about the fact that he was still being called up for the England U-21 team because his dream was to represent the African team. In 2011, the player’s dream became a reality as he was cleared to play for Ghana but it came at a cost. All the hype and attention was quickly flushed down the drain.

Popularly known for?

Emmanuel Frimpong of Arsenal is watched by Samir Nasri of Manchester City during the Carling Cup Quarter Final match between Arsenal and Manchester City at Emirates Stadium on November 29, 2011 in London, England.

(Nov. 28, 2011 - Source: Michael Regan/Getty Images Europe)

Frimpong was well-known for his off-the-pitch antics than his performances on the pitch. The African was used to dropping controversial statements on his social media accounts which often got him in trouble. One time, he threw jabs at his new employers on Instagram after news broke that he was leaving Arsenal for Barnsley. He said, “How am I gonna draw girls now?” when lamenting about his move to the lower league club.

Also, he had his fair share of punishment from the English Football Association for posting offensive tweets directed at a fan. Frimpong was just too much.

Retirement announcement

Emmanuel Frimpong announced his retirement on the 8th of March 2019 after a long consideration of his future and well-being. The player had struggled with a knee injury for the past 5 years which saw him play through pain. The defensive midfielder said, “since November 2017 I haven't been in action as I had a tear in my knee ligament. I decided with my own will that I will not opt for the operation since I was not enjoying football playing through pain.” Spending some time out of the game with his family made him realize that he is blessed and he plans on being available for his daughter more now that he has hung up his boots.

Farewell Emmanuel! All the best in your future endeavors.

“Just like any other English player, Frimpong was hyped up and being mooted to be the next Paul Scholes. Instead, Frimpong aspired to play for his native home, Ghana and he was quoted to having said, “I have always told my family that if Ghana calls me, I will personally ride my own bicycle from England to Ghana [to play for the Black Stars]”.”

— Tinotenda Magiya, FirstTouch Africa

Ballon d'Or winner, Ada Hegerberg's stance to sit out the 2019 World Cup a huge leap towards gender equality in football?

Ballon d’Or and activism.

“Another example of the ridiculous sexism that still exists in sport. Why do women have still have to put up with that s**t? What questions did they ask Mbappe and Modric (this year’s winner of the men’s Ballon d’Or)?”

— Andy Murray via Instagram

Ada Hegerberg is a fascinating figure on and off the football pitch. The five-time Champions League winner has made headlines recently after it was confirmed that she will not be playing at the 2019 Women’s World Cup in France. The 23-year-old Lyon forward quit the Norwegian national team in 2017 citing her grievance at the unequal treatment of the women’s team and their male counterparts as her reason for abandoning her national duty.

According to Norwegian head coach, Martin Sjörgen, there have been talks with the Ballon d’Or winner to try and convince her to take part in the tournament, talks that have apparently bared no fruit. Hegerberg has maintained her stance she left the national team in 2017 even after a historic salary review by the Norwegian football association saw the women’s team receive equal pay for the first time in their history.

“Can you twerk?”

Ada Hegerberg of Lyon celebrates with the trophy during the UEFA Womens Champions League Final between VfL Wolfsburg and Olympique Lyonnais on May 24, 2018 in Kiev, Ukraine.

(May 23, 2018 - Source: David Ramos/Getty Images Europe)

A question we probably wouldn’t expect to be asked at football’s biggest night to the woman who has just made history, winning the first ever Women’s Ballon d’Or. When the French DJ, Martin Solveig asked Ada Hegerberg if she knew how to twerk, it was probably one of the cringiest moments in football history. It is an understatement to say that the joke did not go down well with Hegerberg herself and other pundits including tennis champion, Andy Murray who furiously reacted to the infamous questioning, calling out the double standards in the sporting world.

The Gender Pay Gap in football

Hegerberg could not hide her frustration at that moment and she has never been the one to shy away from speaking out and making a stand. Her absence that the World Cup is the biggest statement she can make in protest of the treatment of women’s national teams.

The US National Women’s team have been vocal over the years, particularly former captain Hope Solo. The retired goalkeeper has publically supported Hegerberg’s decision to boycott the World Cup stating that she respected her decision remarking, "We're not going to create the change that we want to see in women's football until people like Ada take a stance,” in a recent interview.

A lawsuit has been filed against US Soccer Federation by the entire US women’s team. The lawsuit is disputing the pay structure and other incentives that the US man’s team receive that the women are not privileged to, including the charting of private jets for matches among other special treatments.

Similar complaints have been launched by the Super Falcons and Banyana Banyana who despite outperforming their male counterparts in tournaments, have continued to be paid significantly less for their efforts. These players are undervalued and the defence for this is usually the popularity of the men’s game compared to that of women. It was just last year when the first ever Ballon d’Or was awarded to a woman which shows that women’s football is coming to the forefront, only now. The times are definitely changing and with this kind of stand by the world’s best female player, Ada Hegerberg, the message is loud and clear; give women the respect they deserve.

“A question we probably wouldn’t expect to be asked at football’s biggest night to the woman who has just made history, winning the first ever Women’s Ballon d’Or. When the French DJ, Martin Solveig asked Ada Hegerberg if she knew how to twerk, it was probably one of the cringiest moments in football history.”

— Margaret Mandeya, FirstTouch Africa

As Hegerberg continues to make headlines for her decision to sit out of France 2019, the conversation will inevitably lead back to the state of women's football and what needs to be done to rectify the situation to balance the scale for women in football. This could possibly be one of the tipping points for equality in football.

ABSA Premiership: Four horse title race goes down to the wire

“ The nation’s soccer lovers will need to fasten their seat belts and brace themselves for an emotional roller coaster. We are set for an exciting close of the season. In the top six‚ Pirates have 40 points from 23 games‚ Mamelodi Sundowns have 40 from 22‚ Cape Town City 39 from 23‚ Bidvest Wits 38 from 22. ”

— Siphosethu Thwala, FirstTouch Africa

Premier League football around the globe is hitting its penultimate moment characterized by competitiveness for the title. In South Africa’s ABSA premiership, it is no different. The Absa Premiership campaign is heading towards an exciting climax with several teams having a mathematical chance of winning the league title.

Going into Gameweek 23, Soweto giants, Orlando Pirates are currently top the table alongside rivals Mamelodi Sundowns as both sides sit on 40 points with seven and eight games to play respectively. Next is Cape Town City who are third with 39 points while Bidvest Wits’ recent form has seen them slip from top spot to fourth, on 38 points from 22 matches. Several of the Absa Premiership’s top sides still have to play each other over the course of what will be an exhilarating few weeks in the South African top-flight, with the Buccaneers and Brazilians set to battle it out in what could potentially be a title-deciding fixture at the end of April. Below we look at the run-in and assesses each team’s prospects of winning the coveted prize.

Orlando Pirates

One may be quick to think that the log leaders have it easy going into the last stretch of the remaining season. That is however not the case. Looking at their title run in, the Bucs still have to play all three of their title rivals in the next two months, starting with a matchup against Bidvest Wits, then a crunch fixture against Sundowns on May 5 before playing Cape Town City a week later. They face the toughest title run-in compared to the rest of the teams. Mind you, Pirates are still part of the CAF Champions league tournament as well, something that may hamper their domestic run-in. Juggling their Premiership assignments with continental duties still on their minds could be massively taxing. Perhaps the biggest motivation for Pirates is the pain of not having any silverware for the past five seasons, and as such, they may want to put a stop to that by going all the way. Do they have the capacity and depth to win it? I say yes.

Mamelodi Sundowns

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)

Abafana Ba style, as they are fondly known, are now used to such circumstances, having won the league twice in the past three seasons. They certainly know what it takes to deliver at the most critical time. They are no doubt the favourites to land the title for various reasons. These include the fact that Sundowns have played a game less than Pirates, and if they were to win that game, it would give them a three-point cushion going into the remaining seven fixtures. Moreover, it is an open secret that Sundowns has the most depth compared to the rest of the teams in the league, and that on its own gives them options to rotate their squad in the coming busy period. However, the Brazilians also somewhat face a similar predicament as Orlando Pirates. They too are still competing in the CAF Champions League and that might disrupt their title charge. Either way, Pitso Mosimane’s side will be hoping they replicate their heroics where they won both the ABSA Premier League and the CAF Champions League in the same season. Looking at their remaining fixtures, Downs do not have it easy. Amongst others, they are still to face cross-town rivals SuperSport United before the potential title decider against Pirates in their penultimate match of the season.

Cape Town City FC

If anyone had ruled Cape Town City out of this season’s Absa Premiership title race, then their win against Mamelodi Sundowns last night would no doubt have changed their minds. Their 2-1 resounding victory over fellow title rivals Mamelodi Sundowns blew the race wide open. The Citizens came from a goal down to register a memorable 2-1 victory over the defending champions, thanks to brilliant goals from Kermit Erasmus and new signing Chris David. The victory came barely a week after Sundowns had beaten Cape Town City 3-2 in the reverse fixture.

Pitso Mosimane of Mamelodi Sundowns reacts during the Absa Premiership match between Mamelodi Sundowns and Maritzburg United at Loftus Stadium on December 20, 2013 in Pretoria, South Africa.

(Dec. 19, 2013 - Source: Gallo Images/Getty Images Europe)

It is no doubt that Coach Benni McCarthy used the January transfer window wisely, signing Kermit Erasmus and Thato Mokeke, two players who are already making a big impact in the side. Erasmus has bagged three goals in as many matches, while Mokeke is doing an immense job in midfield. New man Chris David, who was signed last week, showed the quality he possesses with a brilliant goal against Sundowns and much more will be expected from him in the final few months of the campaign.

Other than hosting Pirates in their penultimate league match of the season‚ City appear to have the best run-in of all the teams in the title race‚ at least on paper. Nonetheless, judging by the fluidity of the results this season‚ nothing is certain and there will be more twists in this race. Still, the scales seem to be tipped in City’s favour if one considers the fact that unlike title rivals Pirates and Sundowns‚ they (City) don’t have to worry about the Champions League. Nonetheless, City still have some tricky fixtures against the likes of Polokwane City and Bloemfontein Celtic that may prove daunting.

Bidvest Wits

Another team that is not to be ruled out of the title contention is Bidvest Wits, the 2017 champions, who sit on fourth place and just two points behind Pirates. Interestingly, Wits had been top of the league for a period dating back to the time before Christmas until the end of February when they were dethroned by Sundowns. Worse, Wits’ loss against Cape Town City also dented the club’s title hopes as it set them back two points adrift the log leaders and will therefore be banking on their remaining league games to have a shot to claim another title. That said, the Students as they are popularly known, will be banking on their remaining league games to have a go at the prospect of winning the league again. However, Wits also face a tough title run-in encompassed by tough fixtures including matches against Pirates and Supersport United.

Bidvest Wits coach Gavin Hunt has described the Absa Premiership title race as “crazy”, due to the inconsistency of clubs currently battling it out for the biggest prize in local football. Wits dropped points yet again over the weekend, squandering the two-goal lead they had at half-time to lose 3-2 to fellow title challengers Cape Town City at Bidvest Stadium on Saturday.

Conclusion

Title run-ins surely don’t get any better than this. The nation's soccer lovers will need to fasten their seat belts and brace themselves for an emotional roller coaster. We are set for an exciting close of the season. In the top six‚ Pirates have 40 points from 23 games‚ Mamelodi Sundowns have 40 from 22‚ Cape Town City 39 from 23‚ Bidvest Wits 38 from 22. Which fixtures are you most looking forward to in the Absa Premiership title run-in?

Why Obi Mikel & Chukwueze were left out of the Nigerian squad for the upcoming AFCON Qualifier

The most notable omissions from the latest Nigerian national team squad include the captain, John Obi Mikel and the young sensation Samuel Chukwueze. The Super Eagles are to play a 2019 African Cup of Nations qualifier and international friendlies during the international break this week. We analyse if it’s a cause for concern for the former Chelsea player and whether Chukwueze will ever be considered in the future.

John Obi Mikel

John Obi Mikel of Nigeria drives the ball during an international friendly match between Argentina and Nigeria at Krasnodar Stadium on November 14, 2017 in Krasnodar, Russia.

(Nov. 14, 2017 - Source: Epsilon/Getty Images Europe)

There are three important pointers to John Obi Mikel’s situation:

1. Obi’s move to Middlesbrough. The Nigerian captain decided to move back to England from the Chinese Super League in the wake of the 2018 FIFA World Cup. The player became a free agent in November after representing Tianjin TEDA for almost two years. He has been trying to get back to his best competing in a more challenging competition and his move to Middlesbrough presented him that opportunity. He, however, has to adapt to the league which is probably why the Nigerian coach, Gernot Rohr, omitted him for the upcoming matches. Managers are supposed to take care of their players and make sure they are in their element for the team to succeed. Rohr probably saw the need to give Obi Mikel some time to allow his smooth transition to the English Championship before calling him back up to the squad.

2. Current form. To be honest, his form has not been great. For a manager to justify the decision of calling up a player to the national team, the primary indicator that everyone looks at, is the player’s current form. Mikel has played only 7 matches since November 2018 which can arguably suggest a lack of match fitness. Also, in those 7 matches, he has been far from his best recording an average of 1 interception, 1.3 clearances and a little over 2 tackles per match as part of his defensive contribution. Whereas, other players in his position like Wilfred Ndidi are clocking 5 tackles, 4 interceptions and 2 clearances per match. Clearly, Obinna Mikel has not done enough to warrant a call up. Picking Obi Mikel in a team with players working their socks off like Ndidi would not make sense to the public eye.

3. His Age. This can not go unmentioned. John Obi Mikel is not young anymore. He's a 31-year old defensive midfielder who is not playing in a top-flight football league. Relying on a player of his age should be concerning for a country like Nigeria who pride themselves in developing a sustained pool of talented African players. Instead of relying on an old horse, the country should be preparing for life after the player who captained the Super Eagles at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, hence the omission from the latest squad announced by Gernot Rohr. It might be that they don't see him as an integral part of the team which should be fine considering the player is winding down his career.

I'm not really surprised at the decision after considering these three pointers. The odds have not been on Obi’s favor of late.

Samuel Chukwueze

For the young kind, we also have three points that should be considered:

1. Chukwueze’s competition. Before we cause a scene on social media, we need to look at the players that have been picked by Rohr ahead of the Villarreal player. Alex Iwobi, Ahmed Musa, Henry Onyekuru and Samuel Kalu have all been in better form than the young wing-wizard who is plying his trade in the Spanish La Liga. If he had scored and assisted a couple of more goals, Samuel Chukwueze would be giving Gernot Rohr a headache on whether or not to start him ahead of the rest.

2. Style of Play. This is a tricky one. There are players that are a joy to watch and Chukwueze is one of them. He has the confidence of carrying the ball and running at defenders which keeps fans at the edge of their seats. If anything, Chukwueze has been the closest thing to Victor Moses at his prime when he had the swagger of pulling out a trick or two to beat defenders before rushing into the box. However, one has to consider if these attributes are what the team needs. On the pitch, the team needs balance and this requires a lot from the players. Chukwueze lacks the defensive edge as well as crossing abilities which are a must for a modern day winger. Although he can pull some magic out of nowhere, the player is still growing in the basics that warrant a player of a starting berth, which is why Rohr might have opted not to include him this time around.

3. His Age. At 20-years, Chukwueze definitely has a lot to learn. He is far from being the finished product, meaning he has a lot of time to work on his weaknesses and make a claim for a place in the Super Eagles squad. It's too soon to be worried about his lack of involvement in the national team but with a few more stellar performances like the one against Real Madrid, we will stop caring about his age and demand his presence in the starting team like Mbappe in the French national team.

“Chukwueze’s competition. Before we cause a scene on social media, we need to look at the players that have been picked by Rohr ahead of the Villarreal player. Alex Iwobi, Ahmed Musa, Henry Onyekuru and Samuel Kalu have all been in better form than the young wing-wizard who is plying his trade in the Spanish La Liga.”

— Tinotenda Magiya, FirstTouch Africa

Nigeria have already qualified for the 2019 AFCON finals to be played between June-July in Egypt. They will welcome Seychelles for their final group game whereas South Africa and Libya have all to play for as thy cross swords to determine the second finalist from the group.

The rebirth of Ghana’s Jeffrey Schlupp

“ It therefore came as no surprise when Schlupp beat Wilfred Zaha in the fans’ vote to pick up the Palace’s Player of The Month gong. ”

— Siphosethu Thwala, FirstTouch Africa

The adage “one man’s trash is another man’s treasure” has an interesting way of playing itself out in real life. If Jeffrey Schlupp’s recent form is anything to go by, then Leicester City might have reconsidered offloading him two years back. The Ghanaian midfielder is certainly on a roll. Schlupp’s string of impressive performances have earned the in-form midfielder, the Club’s Player of The Month for February. The German-born Schlupp, who joined Palace from Leicester City in 2017, will hope to earn a Ghana recall ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations in June-July, having last played for the Black Stars in 2017.

The 26-year-old has been a regular throughout the month and has impressed Roy Hodgson enough to command a starting berth in the middle of the park, holding off competition from Max Meyer and the fit-again Cheikhou Kouyate. Being back in the starting eleven has rewarded Schlupp handsomely, with the player scoring five goals this season in all competitions and topping that with a handful of assists. It therefore came as no surprise when Schlupp beat Wilfred Zaha in the fans’ vote to pick up the Palace’s Player of The Month gong. With Wilfried Zaha struggling to match his output for last term, and the likes of Jordan Ayew and Christian Benteke underperforming, Schlupp is emerging as an unlikely hero for Palace as they look to pull away from the hotly contested relegation zone.

Jeffrey Schlupp of Crystal Palace celebrates after scoring his team's first goal during the Premier League match between Fulham FC and Crystal Palace at Craven Cottage on August 11, 2018 in London, United Kingdom.

(Aug. 10, 2018 - Source: Christopher Lee/Getty Images Europe)

Interestingly, Schlupp was amongst the goals during Palace’s opening match of the season against Fulham. Nonetheless, the player was in and out of the side during the latter part of 2018. As was the case at Leicester, where he was often overlooked for Christian Fuchs, it appeared as though Schlupp had failed to convince another Premier League manager that he was a worthy, regular starter in the top flight. Ironically, that has changed over the course of the season as Roy Hodgson has heaped praise on the underrated midfielder. Commenting on the 26-year-old’s resurgence off late, Hodgson said “I believe in him as a left-back, I believe in him as a left-sided player and I believe in him as a left midfield player in a three because he has a lot of qualities.”

Many will remember Schlupp as one of the first players to leave the Foxes after winning the Premier League in the 2016/2017 season. During his two years with Leicester, Schlupp managed just four goals, but he has already surpassed that tally this season alone as he had five goals as of end of February 2019. Now, filled with loads of confidence, and clearly taking responsibility as some of Palace’s bigger names lose their way, one would be forgiven to think that Schlupp’s fine run of form is most likely to continue.

Do you think the versatile Ghanaian international is underrated?

UCL Highlights: Marega unleashed, AS Roma deceased, & the Manchester Miracle

Mali’s Marega outstanding as FC Porto advance at the expense of AS Roma

Moussa Marega of FC Porto celebrates scoring Porto goal in action during the match between FC Porto v Everton FC for Algarve Football Cup 2018 at Estadio do Algarve on July 22, 2018 in Faro, Portugal.

(July 21, 2018 - Source: Carlos Rodrigues/Getty Images Europe)

He was missing in the first leg played in Italy and Porto had to succumb to a 2-1 defeat at the hands of last year’s semi-finalists. This 27-year-old, Marega, was a real clutch for the Primeira Liga side who finished unbeaten in the UCL group stages as he became the first African to score in five consecutive champions league matches. His return to the starting line-up couldn’t have been any better. Within 25 minutes, the Beast won the ball from an unsuspecting Roma defender, fed up Jesus Corona and sped to receive the ball and cut it back to Francisco Soares for the home side’s opener. A dream start that levelled the aggregate score and put Porto on the verge of qualifying for the quarter-finals, only if they could keep the clean sheet.

It was not to be as some rush defending led to a Roma penalty in the 37th minute, which Daniele De Rossi comfortably slotted home past the world cup winner, Iker Casillas. The 2017/18 champions had to go again and this time, Marega was on the receiving end as he netted in the 52nd minute, for his 6th goal in 6 Champions League appearances, an historic feat only achieved by five other global footballers.

In the end, VAR had the final say as it seems to be doing these days as Porto were awarded a penalty in the 117th minute of extra time. Alex Telles made no mistake as he converted to send the Portuguese champions through to the quarter-finals.

Lukaku bags a brace as Ole’s United shock PSG

Romelu Lukaku of Manchester United celebrates after Anthony Martial of Manchester United scores his team's second goal during the Premier League match between Chelsea FC and Manchester United at Stamford Bridge on October 20, 2018 in London, United Kingdom.

(Oct. 19, 2018 - Source: Catherine Ivill/Getty Images Europe)

There is really something going on with the Manchester United legend, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. The 46-year-old is almost always getting everything right in his 6 months tenure as the Red Devils’ caretaker boss. United went into the second leg of the UCL round of 16 needing a miracle as they had fallen to a 2-0 home defeat at the hands of the Parisians. The entire story between the two teams actually became earmarked by the blessing in disguise of having injured players.

In Manchester, Ole was hit by the element of surprise as Thomas Tuchel made the most of his squad without Cavani or Neymar. The German outsmarted Ole by setting up a midfield of five that obliterated Pogba and set Mbappe on his way. On the other hand, Manchester United travelled to Paris without the suspended Pogba, Sanchez, Martial, Herrera, Matic and many other first team players. Ole pulled one over Tuchel and set up a more conservative side with a defensive line of five relied on catching PSG on the break. Of course the Ligue 1 side looked tame throughout the match and their figured approach didn’t bear a lot of fruits. Instead they made errors which Romelu Lukaku hungrily capitalised on, needing no second invitation, one in the 2nd minute and another in the 30th minute. The decider was another VAR decision which awarded the visitors a penalty in the 90th minute. Only the word miracle can describe United’s progression into the quarter-finals, all the decisions and mistakes of the night worked in their favor. The star studded Parisian side was humbled to yet another UCL early exit and my earlier assessment of their apathy for champions league glory may be realer than the word itself.

Elsewhere, Harry Kane and Tottenham silenced the Yellow-Wall at Signal Iduna Park as they grabbed a narrow 1-0 victory that allowed them to advance to the quarter-finals on a 4-0 aggregate win over Borussia Dortmund.

MLS Preview: Top 10 Must Watch Players Of African Descent - #6 Saphir Taider

Saphir Taider of Algeria controls the ball against Philipp Lahm of Germany during the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil Round of 16 match between Germany and Algeria at Estadio Beira-Rio on June 30, 2014 in Porto Alegre, Brazil.

(June 29, 2014 - Source: Julian Finney/Getty Images South America)

Taider is one of MLS’ top imports from Europe’s big soccer leagues. The 27-year-old arrived at Montreal Impact in the January of 2018 from Italian Serie A’s Bologna and took no time to adjust to new surroundings. By the turn of the year, Taider had started 34 competitive matches for the Canadian club, scored 8 goals and serving up 5 assists.In other words, he instantly became a crucial figure in the heart of Impact’s midfield. The Algerian international is entering his second season in the MLS and the club will be counting on the midfield maestro to run the show and help the club better their 7th place finish in the 2018 season.

Prior to joining Montreal Impact, Taider appeared for Italian clubs Sassuolo, Bologna and Inter Milan including a short stint at the English Premier League’s Southampton. His elder brother represents the country of his father’s birth,Tunisia, while Taider plays for the rivals, Algeria, the mother’s country of origin. The 27-year-old central midfielder made his international debut in 2013 and has since played 44 matches for the Desert Foxes, scoring 5 times. He helped the nation to reach the knockout stages of the 2014 FIFA World Cup and was also a key figure as the North African nation reached the quarter-finals of the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations.

Impact teammate and midfield partner, Samuel Piette, described Saphir as a complete player.

“We can see this year he has a lot of goals and assists, so he’s participating as well offensively. He’s got a good shot. I mean he hasn’t scored a screamer so far but he’s had a couple of good shots. He’s not an individual player, he likes to make plays [to] the others. Obviously we have Nacho [Piatti]  so he looks for him. He looks for the strength of the team and tries to play on that. He doesn’t really have weaknesses, to be honest. He’s a very complete player.”

— Samuel Piette, Montreal Impact

UCL: Ajax schooling Real Madrid, the climax of football entertainment

Dusan Tadic of Ajax celebrates scoring a goal with Hakim Ziyech during the Eredivisie match between Ajax and Emmen at Johan Cruyff Arena on August 25, 2018 in Amsterdam, Netherlands.

(Aug. 24, 2018 - Source: Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images Europe)

I didn’t want the ninety minutes to end, my soul was yearning for something like ninety years.

It was all in there; sheer teamwork, individual brilliance, woodwork shots that leave you on the edge of your seat, “poetic justice” and much much more. It was not park the bus stuff we have been made to see recently, but end to end stuff of the experienced up against the less experienced. They were no sacred cows, as long as they were playing the round ball - all was willing to show what they can do with it.

Many post-match commentaries have spoken extensively as to why the holders of the UEFA Champions League crown, Real Madrid, fell victim to the young Ajax side. As tempting as it is to talk about the “bully” who has won the title, 4 times in the past 5 seasons, with many times just scrapping past opponents with a stroke of fortune or as some would argue, courtesy of experience - Ajax’s side of the story is a better one. More so because I selfishly get to say, I told you so as my predictions were all in favor of the Dutch Eredivisie side going through to the next stage.

“We never thought it could get worse, but it did. After early signs of getting back into the game with Real Madrid’s Asensio and Benzema working out a few moments of magic with no success, that other star took his turn to kill the game.”

— Dennis Takaendesa, FirstTouch Africa

Just seven minutes into the match, as I bumped into the room, Morocco’s Ziyech bumped into the Madrid box and carefully stroked the ball into the net after Dusan Tadic had laid it on the most silver platter. That was just moments after Raphael Varane had hit the woodwork on the other end after being gifted a free header by the unsuspecting Ajax defence. It got worse for the Spanish La Liga side, and it was that man again - the number 10 of the night, Dusan Tadic. This time, the Serbian turned the turf into his dancefloor, breezed past a few midfielders, including the mighty Casemiro by means of the marseille turn, made popular by Zinedine Zidane. As if that was not enough, the 30-year-old laid another assist for the 22-year-old David Neres, a relatively lightweight who didn’t trouble Sergio Ramos in the first leg. As they say, when the cat is away, the mice play- that was Neres. The young forward needed no second invitation as he sustained a challenge from Modric and chipped the ball beyond Courtois’ reach for Ajax’s second. Confidence oozing, Ajax out their traps and Madrid exposed, Neres almost retired Carvajal on the touchline before the whistle came all too quickly to momentarily call out the city fire squad because the Bernabeu was basically in flames.

Andre Onana of Ajax and Matthijs de Ligt of Ajax celebrate following their sides victory in 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)

We never thought it could get worse, but it did. After early signs of getting back into the game with Real Madrid’s Asensio and Benzema working out a few moments of magic with no success, that other star took his turn to kill the game. A feisty battle on the touchline, won by another Moroccan, Noussair Mazraoui resulted in a goal, controversially so as the ball looked like it had gone out of play. All I remember is that it ended in the glad feet of Tadic who took his time to place it in the top corner as he capped off what he called, perhaps the best match he had ever played. The unrelenting Asensio pulled one back for the champions but almost immediately, Ajax had another answer. Denmark’s Lasse Schone was delegated a task, preyfuly spied on the Belgian goalkeeper and dipped the ball into the net from the unlikeliest of positions. The Morrocan wonder, who scored in both legs, Hakim Ziyech, almost added a fifth from close range but somehow skied his effort. The four were more than enough to send the champions packing.

Now, the above narration sounds good but what makes this particular match an exhibit of a climax in football entertainment? Very simple, it was a David-Goliath story played before our very own eyes. Whether you were a Madrid or Ajax fan, it was difficult to be blind to the majestic displays. We looked on as a fairytale was being played and written.

The dreams of the Ajax kids were proved valid against the more mature and seasoned Madrid side. Conclusively, all dreams actually remain valid, at least in the world of football. It was all just the round of 16 - what more awaits us in the subsequent stages of the 2018/19 UEFA Champions League season.

MLS Preview: Top 10 Must Watch Players Of African Descent - #7 Emmanuel Boateng

Apparently, Boateng is not the least popular last name in Ghana and neither is the name, Emmanuel. Other than the Chinese Super League based Emmanuel Boateng who once helped Levante sink Barcelona by scoring a hatrick in the 2017/18 La Liga season, the Major League Soccer have their own.

The 24-year-old LA Galaxy forward, Emmanuel “Ema” Boateng got re-signed by the club prior to the commencement of the 2019 season after his three-year contract had run out. He is one such an individual who is yet to realise his full potential at the MLS’ most successful club with a record 5 titles. In his first spell, Ema scored 8 goals and assisted 12 others in a total of 87 appearances (58 starts) across three seasons. The pacey, diminutive winger is an absolute joy to watch in his element. The kind who can slither past opposing players with ease and a rare eye for goal when he chooses. With Galaxy in the mood of chasing another MLS title after missing out on the playoffs in the 2018 season, Ema couldn’t be more important now. Their top man and captain, Zlatan Ibrahimovic has promised to break all records in the American league and that would be made even easier with quality players such as Giovani Dos Santos and Emmanuel Boateng around him. Even the LA Galaxy General Manager was not shy to highlight the importance of the uncapped Ghanaian:

“We are excited that Ema will be returning to LA Galaxy. Ema is a talented young player who brings excitement and depth to our roster. We look forward to his continued development as a player and future contributions to our team.”

— Dennis te Kloese, LA Galaxy General Manager

Boateng was born and grew in Ghana, in a home that lacked running water and electricity. He first made contact with the US after winning a scholarship to attend Cate School in Carpinteria, California. He quickly climbed up the ranks, playing for the University of California, Santa Barbara men’s soccer team before short stints in the Swedish league and eventually making an MLS debut with LA Galaxy in 2016. His story has been featured on documentaries and most notably on CNN.

MLS Preview: Top 10 Must Watch Players Of African Descent - #8 Kei Kamara

The heart shaped hands goal machine embraces new challenge

Soccer player Kei Kamara attends the 2016 ESPYS at Microsoft Theater on July 13, 2016 in Los Angeles, California.

(July 12, 2016 - Source: Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images North America)

The big time, big smile, big heart and big goals player and a veteran of nomadic nature in the MLS is once again on the cusp of a new adventure with the Colorado Rapids, his seventh MLS club to date. The Sierra Leone international was nabbed by FC Cincinnati in December 2018 who immediately traded him to the Colorado Rapids after Vancouver Whitecaps let go of the 34-year-old. The forward netted 14 goals in the just ended MLS season, helped in mentoring youngsters such as the Bayern Munich winger, Alphonso Davies and was not shy to describe the shocking nature of the club’s decision. However, as always, the veteran MLS player who also had brief stints with English Premier League side, Norwich City and Championship contenders in Middlesbrough sees only positives ahead. Having scored double figure goals in the past 5 seasons, the Rapids have a top quality and proven forward in Kamara, one they were lacking in the 2018 MLS season that saw them finish 11th in the Western Conference and scoring at least 13 fewer goals than any other club.

The MLS’ sixth all time leading goal scorer moved to United States at age 16 through a refugee program from the Gambia after they had fled his native war-torn Sierra Leone. He briefly spent time in Maryland before moving to Los Angeles where eventually played college soccer at California State University. The founder of the Kei Kamara Heart Shaped Hands Foundation that helps children with school fees and scholarships, is relishing the new challenge and quite excited to find a new home as he has always done throughout his life.

It’s inconceivable that Kei will not add more to his 90 MLS goals tally and 36 assists in 268 appearances. He may not be the same player who had a memorable 2015 season, scoring a league high 22-goals and winning several individual accolades, but he still got it.

MLS Preview: Top 10 Must Watch Players Of African Descent - #10 Jeremy Ebobisse

The young and cunning forward looks to establish himself as a regular for the Portland Timbers after a strong end to 2018.

Jeremy Ebobisse #11 of United States controls the ball during the first half of the international friendly against the Panama at State Farm Stadium on January 27, 2019 in Glendale, Arizona.

(Jan. 26, 2019 - Source: Getty Images North America)

The 22-year-old forward is such a one who had nothing but only good vibes towards the end of the 2018 MLS season. The young striker who is of Cameroonian and Malagasy descent, born in France and represents the United States Men’s National Team has big goals in the new season and so are his spectators, we have huge expectations for the youngster as well. In fact, the year has already gotten off to a bright start for the Portland striker fondly known as “Jebo” by his teammates. He made his USMNT debut on the 27th of January and as the season kicks-off, he will be looking to cement his place as the ever reliable forward for the Timbers. Jebo helped Portland Timbers to reach the 2018 MLS Cup finals, starting 6 post-season games, one more than the starts afforded him in the regular season, even scoring 6 goals in all those appearances.

Ebobisse was acquired as No.4 overall pick in the 2017 MLS SuperDraft and is yet to look back though he has had to be more patient to get his chance. Jebo went to Walter Johnson High School, Bethesda in Maryland, teaming up with the likes of Arsenal forward, Gedion Zelalem eventually playing college soccer between 2014-15 at Duke University where he scored 9 goals and assisted 7 others in 30 starts. He has also appeared for the United States U-20s, helping them win their first ever CONCACAF Championship, qualifying for the 2017 FIFA U-20s World Cup. Patience and grit have been the cornerstone of the youngster’s achievements, who had to wait to be drafted by the Portland Timbers in 2017 though having signed a professional MLS contract in August of 2016 but without a club.

To all his opponents, the explosive and industrious forward will be a matchup problem to solve for opposing defences this season. But as for the rest of us, we can’t wait to see Jeremy take the next another positive step in his young MLS career.

MLS Preview: Top 10 Must Watch Players Of African Descent - #9 Bill Hamid

The homegrown record-breaker can help lead DC United to glory this season.

Bill Hamid #28 of DC United reacts during a game against the Philadelphia Union at RFK Stadium on August 19, 2012 in Washington, DC.

(Aug. 18, 2012 - Source: Patrick McDermott/Getty Images North America)

The 28-year-old goalkeeper is a man who need no introduction. Bilal “Bill”Abdul Hamid is undisputedly one of the best goalkeepers in the MLS and we believe he will be key for his boyhood club, D.C United in the 2019 season.Bill has just one year left on his one and a half loan contract from Danish Superliga club, FC Midtjylland where he fell out favor upon moving to Denmark. This year in particular, he will even be eager to play for his career with his future still a subject of speculation and there may be no better time to do it than now. Upon the arrival of former English captain and Manchester United forward, half-way through the season, the “Black and Red” received a major boost even reaching the knockout round of the 2018 MLS Cup Playoffs. Rooney ended the season as the club’s top goal scorer with 12 to his name, many will be eager to see how much he can give in a full season and Hamid will be the goal minder in the spotlight as the 4 time MLS Cup winners embark on a new mission.

As previously elaborated, Bill Hamid in itself is no small name. He became the first D.C United Academy Player to sign for the first team in 2009 also becoming the youngest goalkeeper to win an MLS match back in 2010 as a 19-year-old, surpassing the record of the legendary Tim Howard. Hamid, whose parents are from Sierra Leone, helped the U.S Men’s National Team to the 2013 and 2017 CONCACAF Gold Cup. Individually, he won the 2012 MLS Goalkeeper of The Year Award and will perhaps remind everyone just how good he is in the 2019 campaign.

For those still wondering who this guy is, you may remember him as the man who pioneered one of the D.C fans’ chants after a video of him pounding his chest and passionately declaring, “you can’t hold us back!” circulated on the internet. This was after Hamid was red carded in the 2012 playoffs against New York Red Bulls. The goalkeeper with a record 88 saves in MLS season is available and we couldn’t be more excited to see what he has to offer this time around.

Do Leicester City have a future star in South Africa's Khanya Leshabela?

It’s not everyday that we get to hear an African, never mind a South African player get signed up by one of the teams in the English premier league until recently. Youngster Khanya Leshabela recently signed his first ever professional contract, penning a three-and-a-half year deal with 2015/2016 Premier League champions, Leicester City.

“Remember the name Khanya Leshabela.”

— Siphosethu Thwala, FirstTouch Africa

Having left his home country as a child,  the attacking midfielder joined the Foxes' academy in March 2013. Since then, Leshabela has slowly been progressing through the ranks at Leicester over the last couple of years, shining for the Foxes’ academy where his magnificent performances eventually caught the eye of U-23s manager Steve Beagkehole. It therefore came as no surprise when the youngster was promoted to the club’s U-23s this season after impressing at U-19 level across the course of 2017/18 while he also featured for the club in the 2016/17 UEFA Youth League. Most recently, Leshabela was on the brink of his much-awaited debut when he was named on the bench in the Carabao Cup against Southampton back in November 2018. His rapid development with the Foxes saw him called up to the first-team by manager Claude Puel when Leicester faced Southampton in the EFL Cup.

The dynamic youngster usually operates out wide on either flank, where he’s able to use his speed and trickery to blaze past defenders. However, he has also shown traits of versatility in his game by playing in other positions including the number-10 role as well as playing as a false nine. Commenting on his style of play, Leshabela alluded, "I would say I'm a midfielder that can operate anywhere across the midfield and I like to get on the ball and create things”.

In recent years it's been rare for a South African player to play in the English Premier League, largely due to difficulties in attaining a work permit. In late 2018, the youngster criticised the national team selectors for their lack of support in tracking his progress in England. It is said that Leshabela is very keen on representing his home country.

While Leshabela may not yet be a household name within the South African football circles, he has stamped his authority and his hard work has earned him the recognition he deserves. Having signed his new contract, all eyes will be on Leshabela to make his debut and become a success at the Foxes. One would think having experienced players like Jamie Vardy and support from his fellow African colleagues including Wilfred Ndidi and Kelechi Iheanacho will help young Leshabela settle well at the club. Blessed with immense talent, it is only a matter of time before football lovers stand up and take notice of the 19-year-old. Remember the name Khanya Leshabela.