FOOTBALL - The African Mirror

Jul

10

2025

WAFCON 2024: Thrilling night of drama as Zambia, Morocco secure crucial victories

WAFCON

IN a night that will be remembered for its breathtaking action and nerve-shredding drama, Zambia's Copper Queens delivered a masterclass in resilience, overcoming a spirited Senegal side 3-2 in what may prove to be the defining match of their TotalEnergies CAF Women's Africa Cup of Nations campaign. Fresh from their frustrating 2-2 draw with hosts Morocco, Zambia arrived at the stadium with desperation etched across their faces - and it showed in every tackle, every sprint, and every moment of magic that followed. But it was Senegal who drew first blood, stunning the title contenders with a lightning-quick opener that…

Jul

09

2025

By BONFACE ORUCHO, BIRD STORY AGENCY

WAFCON 2025 marks a new era for women’s football

WAFCON

A new trophy, record crowds, increased prize money, and historic investment for Women’s AFCON in Morocco, which kicked off on Saturday, 5 July, reflect a change happening in African women’s football. Delayed by a year, marred by funding gaps, and clouded by persistent pay disputes, the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) has long trailed its male counterpart in support and scale. This year’s edition, however, is not just a top-tier competition but a milestone for recognition. According to the Confederation of African Football (CAF), this year’s tournament features a 45% increase in total prize money. The winners will receive…

Jul

08

2025

By The African Mirror

Champions Rise: South Africa’s Quest for 2nd WAFCON Glory Begins with a win over Ghana

WAFCON

UNDER the blazing Moroccan sun, where the Atlas Mountains cast their ancient shadows over the passionate crowds of Oujda, defending champions South Africa announced their arrival at the 2025 TotalEnergies CAF Women's Africa Cup of Nations with the authority of true champions. Their mission? To etch their names in history alongside Nigeria as the only nation to successfully defend the continental crown. Banyana Banyana's 2-0 triumph over Ghana in their Group C opener wasn't just a victory – it was a statement of intent that reverberated through the expanded 12-team tournament like thunder across the desert. From the first whistle,…

Jul

05

2025

By The African Mirror

United in grief for Diogo, Andre Silva: Football’s heartbreak in a quaint Portuguese village

FOOTBALL

IN the serene heart of Gondomar, a quaint Portuguese village nestled amid rolling hills and ancient olive groves, a profound silence fell over the cobbled streets. The village bore witness to a farewell unlike any other — a sombre tribute to two brothers, Diogo Jota and André Silva, whose lives were tragically cut short in a horrific accident. The world of football, from Portugal to England and beyond, united in grief, draping themselves in black to honour these sons of the beautiful game. The morning sun cast gentle light over the Igreja Matriz de Gondomar, its centuries-old stone walls standing…

Jun

18

2025

By The African Mirror

Historic Triumph: Mamelodi Sundowns make African football history at FIFA Club World Cup 2025

FOOTBALL

IN a momentous occasion for African football, Mamelodi Sundowns etched their name in history as the first African team to secure a win at the FIFA Club World Cup, currently unfolding in the United States. The South African giants clinched a hard-fought 1-0 victory over South Korea’s Ulsan Hyundai at the Inter&Co Stadium in Orlando, Florida, a landmark achievement that has sent waves of pride and celebration across the continent and beyond. The match, delayed by a weather warning, saw a vibrant crowd of 3,412 fans witness a display of tactical brilliance and resilience from the Sundowns, affectionately nicknamed "The…

Jun

11

2025

By The African Mirror

Senegal’s Night of Glory: Historic 3-1 Triumph Over England

FOOTBALL

ON a balmy June evening at Nottingham’s City Ground, Senegal’s Teranga Lions made history, roaring past England with a 3-1 victory that will echo through African football for generations. This was not just a win; it was a seismic moment - the first time in 22 attempts that an African nation had conquered the Three Lions. England, under new manager Thomas Tuchel, started brightly. In the seventh minute, captain Harry Kane pounced on a spilled save from Édouard Mendy to notch his 73rd international goal, giving the hosts an early lead and sending the home crowd into raucous applause. But…

May

24

2025

By WYCLIFFE W. NJORORAI SIMIYU

African footballers in China: what’s behind the sport migration trend

FOOTBALL

RELATIONS between China and Africa are increasingly important in understanding the dynamics that shape our world. But until now, the role of sport has been overlooked. A new book, Global China and the Global Game in Africa, explores the role of football in relations between China and Africa – culturally, politically and economically. Wycliffe W. Njororai Simiyu chatted to us about his chapter in the book. It’s a study of African football migration, how players fare in the popular China Super League, and what their experiences of the country are. What’s the history of African players working in China? A…

May

18

2025

By The African Mirror

Amajita Triumph: South Africa’s U-20 heroes make history with first ever continental crown in Egypt

FOOTBALL

SOUTH Africa’s U-20 men’s national football team, affectionately known as Amajita, has made history by winning the country’s first-ever continental title at the 2025 TotalEnergies CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations held in Egypt. This landmark victory signals a bright future for South African men's football, showcasing a new generation of talent ready to shine on the African and global stage. In a thrilling final against Morocco, Amajita triumphed 1-0 thanks to a spectacular goal from Gomolemo Kekana. His strike from outside the 18-yard box was a moment of pure brilliance that sealed the win and ignited celebrations among the…

Jul

03

2025

By The African Mirror

A World in Tears: The flood of tributes for Liverpool star Diogo Jota

FOOTBALL

THE football world stands shattered today, united in grief and disbelief after the heartbreaking loss of Diogo Jota, Liverpool’s shining star and Portugal’s beloved forward, who tragically died in a car accident in Spain alongside his brother André Silva. The news has sent shockwaves across continents, sparking an outpouring of sorrow and heartfelt tributes from international stars, legendary managers, and clubs alike. Cristiano Ronaldo’s Heartbreaking Tribute Leading the wave of mourning is Cristiano Ronaldo, Jota’s close friend, teammate, and Portugal’s greatest football icon, whose words cut deep into the hearts of millions: “It doesn’t make any sense. Just now we…

May

07

2025

By The African Mirror

Taku Chinyowa: A Zimbabwean dream ignites at Leeds United

FOOTBALL

At just 16 years old, Taku Chinyowa stands on the threshold of a footballing dream that many in Zimbabwe and across Africa have only dared to imagine. The talented youngster, who sharpened his skills at South Africa’s renowned Supersport Academy, has now signed a scholarship with Leeds United-one of England’s most storied clubs and a beacon for aspiring footballers worldwide. For Taku, this move is more than a personal triumph; it is an entry into a legacy. Leeds United’s white jersey has been worn by African greats such as Lucas Radebe, Phil Masinga, and Anthony Yeboah-icons whose exploits have inspired…