Sports

Senegal Clinch AFCON 2025 Title with 1-0 Extra-Time Victory Over Hosts Morocco

Published

8 months ago

January 18, 2026

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In one of the most chaotic and unforgettable finals in Africa Cup of Nations history, Senegal emerged as champions after defeating host nation Morocco 1-0 in extra time at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.

Midfielder Pape Gueye delivered a thunderous strike in the first period of extra time, firing a spectacular left-footed shot into the top corner to secure Senegal’s second continental crown since their 2021 triumph.

The goal proved decisive in a tense, low-scoring encounter that had remained goalless through 90 minutes.

The match will be remembered as much for its dramatic finish as for the football itself. Deep into second-half stoppage time, the referee awarded Morocco a controversial penalty following a lengthy VAR review, ruling that Senegal defender El Hadji Malick Diouf had fouled Brahim Diaz in the box.

The decision sparked fury among the Senegalese players, who briefly walked off the pitch in protest, leading to unprecedented scenes of chaos and lengthy delays.

After returning to the field, Diaz stepped up for the spot-kick but saw his audacious Panenka attempt comfortably saved by Senegal goalkeeper Édouard Mendy, keeping the scores level and sending the game into extra time.

Senegal’s resilience shone through in the additional 30 minutes, where Gueye’s moment of brilliance sealed a famous upset against the heavily favored hosts, who were chasing their first AFCON title since 1976.

The Lions of Teranga, led by talismanic forward Sadio Mané in what may be his final AFCON appearance, demonstrated tactical discipline and defensive solidity throughout the tournament. Their victory marks them as one of the continent’s premier forces in recent years.

For Morocco, the result ends a dream of continental glory on home soil, extending their wait for a second title to 50 years. Despite the heartbreak, the Atlas Lions’ run to the final showcased their growing stature in African football.

This extraordinary final, filled with tension, controversy, and high drama, will be talked about for years to come as Senegal lift the trophy in stunning fashion.

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Sports

Eguavoen appointed interim Super Falcons coach ahead of 2028 Olympic qualifiers

Former Super Falcons defender Ayisat Yusuf—who earned 68 caps and featured at the 2008 Beijing Olympics—also joins as an assistant coach, alongside veteran goalkeeper trainer Olatunji Baruwa.

Published

2 weeks ago

September 9, 2026

OCHEFA

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• Augustine “Cerezo” Eguavoen

Former Super Eagles head coach Augustine “Cerezo” Eguavoen has been appointed to lead Nigeria’s Super Falcons on a temporary basis as the search for a permanent manager continues.

His immediate assignment is navigating the 2028 Olympic Games second-round qualifying tie against Comoros this October.

The Vanguard reported that Eguavoen ‘s immediate assignment is navigating the 2028 Olympic Games second-round qualifying tie against Comoros this October.

Eguavoen brings top-tier experience to the role, having previously guided the Super Eagles to a bronze medal at the 2006 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt.

The interim technical crew is Nasarawa Amazons head coach Christopher Danjuma, who recently led the Falconets at the 2024 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup.

Former Super Falcons defender Ayisat Yusuf—who earned 68 caps and featured at the 2008 Beijing Olympics—also joins as an assistant coach, alongside veteran goalkeeper trainer Olatunji Baruwa.

The 10-time African champions will kick off their campaign against Comoros, who advanced after a staggering 30-0 aggregate win over Sudan.

Both legs of the fixture will take place at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne-Remo on October 9 and 13, 2026.

Sports

Falconets lose World Cup opener to Spain

Spain, who won the competition in 2022, controlled much of the encounter at the Arena Sosnowiec and took the lead in the 13th minute through Marisa García.

Published

2 weeks ago

September 8, 2026

OCHEFA

166 Views

Nigeria’s Falconets lost their 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup opening match to Spain by 2-0 in the Group F opener in Poland on Monday.

Spain, who won the competition in 2022, controlled much of the encounter at the Arena Sosnowiec and took the lead in the 13th minute through Marisa García.

The goal came after Noemí Bejarano worked her way down the flank before sending a low ball into the box, with García finishing to put Spain ahead.

Nigeria struggled to create clear chances in the first half and had to wait until the 37th minute for their first attempt, with Kafayat Mafisere shooting wide from distance.

The Falconets returned from the break with greater attacking intent, with Precious Oscar and Victory Lucky introduced as Nigeria sought an equaliser.

However, Spain remained dangerous, and goalkeeper Laia López kept out Nigeria’s attempts as the European side maintained its advantage.

Sports

Infantino To Seek Re-Election As FIFA President In 2027

If re-elected, the 56-year-old Swiss would remain FIFA president until 2031.

Published

2 weeks ago

September 7, 2026

OCHEFA

146 Views

FIFA says Gianni Infantino will stand for re-election in 2027.

If re-elected, the 56-year-old Swiss would remain FIFA president until 2031.

Infantino, who has served as FIFA president since 2016, has faced growing pressure following his controversial proposal to sell stakes in FIFA competitions to private investment firms.

The plan triggered widespread criticism across the football community, with UEFA threatening to boycott FIFA competitions, including the World Cup, in opposition to the proposal.“Of course, nothing has changed. Mr Infantino will be standing for re-election,” FIFA said in a statement.

The confirmation comes after Infantino declined to answer questions about his political future when questioned by reporters at the Women’s Under-20 World Cup in Poland on Saturday.