Ghana defender Mohammed Salisu is in serious doubt for the 2026 FIFA World Cup following a major injury setback.
AC Monaco center-back, Mohammed Salisu, picked up the injury during his club’s Ligue 1 clash against Olympique Lyon. After medical assessments, the French side confirmed that Salisu had suffered a rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his left knee.
The injury comes as a big blow to Monaco, where Salisu is a regular starter and a key figure in the club’s defensive line. ACL injuries are among the most severe in football, often requiring a recovery period of around eight to nine months away from competitive action.
Salisu now becomes the second Monaco player dealing with an ACL injury, after Takumi Minamino, who has already been sidelined with a similar issue.
For Ghana, the timing could not be worse. Salisu has been an important part of the Black Stars squad, including during the World Cup qualification campaign. With the global showpiece scheduled for just six months from now, the 25-year-old defender faces an uphill battle to regain full fitness in time, putting his participation in the tournament in serious doubt.
British boxing star Anthony Joshua has spoken publicly for the first time following a devastating road accident in Nigeria that claimed the lives of two people close to him.
The 36-year-old former heavyweight champion was involved in a fatal collision near Lagos while travelling as a passenger in a Lexus SUV. The vehicle reportedly crashed into a stationary truck on a busy expressway, resulting in the deaths of Joshua’s close friends and team associates, Sina Ghami and Latif “Latz” Ayodele.
Joshua sustained injuries in the crash and was rushed to hospital, where he received treatment before being discharged last Wednesday. He has since returned to the United Kingdom. Funeral prayers for Ghami and Ayodele were held at a mosque in London on Sunday, attended by family members and loved ones.
On Sunday morning, Joshua shared an emotional post on Instagram, uploading two images that showed him seated beside his mother and relatives of the deceased. The photographs included the grieving mothers of Ghami and Ayodele, one of whom was holding a framed photo of her son. Joshua accompanied the post with a brief but powerful caption: “My Brother’s Keeper.”
Meanwhile, legal proceedings are underway in Nigeria. The driver of the SUV, identified as 46-year-old Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, appeared before the Sagamu Magistrates’ Court on Friday. According to police sources, he faces multiple charges, including causing death by dangerous driving. He was granted bail set at five million naira (£2,578) and remanded in custody pending fulfilment of bail conditions. The case is scheduled to resume on January 20.
Joshua, who was born in Watford, has strong family ties to Sagamu in Ogun State, close to the scene of the accident. A family source revealed that the boxer was travelling to the town to visit relatives for New Year celebrations when the tragic incident occurred.
The Olympic gold medallist had been spending time in Nigeria following his high-profile victory over American YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul on December 19.
Anthony Joshua Breaks Silence After Tragic Nigeria Car Crash
Brahim Diaz’s historic strike gives Morocco victory over Tanzania to reach quarter-finals
Brahim Diaz etched his name into African football history on Sunday evening as his solitary goal sealed a hard-fought 1-0 victory for Morocco over Tanzania, sending the Atlas Lions into the quarter-finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
The Round of 16 encounter at the Stade Prince Moulay Abdallah began with Tanzania showing no signs of inferiority. Despite entering the clash as underdogs, the Taifa Stars started brightly, pressing high and competing aggressively in the early exchanges.
Morocco gradually grew into the game and began to assert their dominance. In the 15th minute, Ismael Saibari thought he had opened the scoring with a powerful header, but celebrations were cut short after a VAR review ruled the goal out for offside.
The disallowed goal seemed to unsettle the Atlas Lions momentarily, and despite controlling possession for long spells, they were unable to break down a resolute Tanzanian defence before halftime, with the teams heading into the break goalless.
After the restart, Morocco returned with renewed intensity, pinning Tanzania deep in their own half as they searched for a breakthrough. Achraf Hakimi came agonisingly close on the hour mark when his curling free-kick rattled the crossbar.
The decisive moment arrived just four minutes later. Hakimi turned provider with a perfectly weighted pass to Brahim Diaz. The Real Madrid forward displayed superb footwork to beat his marker before drilling a low shot into the near post, leaving the Tanzanian goalkeeper with no chance.
That moment of brilliance proved decisive, as Morocco held firm to secure a narrow but deserved 1-0 victory and book their place in the quarter-finals.
Diaz’s match-winning strike was also a historic one, making him the first Moroccan player to score in four consecutive AFCON matches—a remarkable achievement that further underlines his growing influence on the continental stage.
Ghana football fans have received a welcome boost ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup as midfielder Abu Francis reports steady progress in his recovery from a serious injury.
The 24-year-old Toulouse star suffered a double fracture during an international friendly against Japan last November at Toyota Stadium, a match the Black Stars lost 2-0.
In a recent video shared by the Ghana Football Association, Francis expressed gratitude to fans for their support.
“My recovery is going well. I want to sincerely thank everyone for the love and encouragement you have shown the Black Stars this year, especially during my injury in Japan. Your support has given me the strength and courage to keep pushing forward. I hope to be back on the field soon and wish everyone a happy New Year. Please continue to support the Black Stars,” he said.
Francis fractured both his tibia and fibula on November 14, 2025, during the Kirin Cup match, but his recovery may give him a chance to feature in coach Otto Addo’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup across Canada, USA, and Mexico.
Sudan Coach Kwesi Appiah Targets AFCON Glory Amid National Turmoil
Sudan’s head coach, Kwesi Appiah, has declared his ambition to lead the Falcons of Jediane to victory at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), hoping that success on the pitch can bring some relief to his war-torn nation.
The team will take on Senegal in the Round of 16 at Tangier Grand Stadium today, with kick-off set for 16:00 GMT.
In a press briefing, Appiah acknowledged the tough road ahead but emphasized that Sudan is determined to make a deep run in the tournament. The Ghanaian coach revealed that his squad is driven by more than just football—they carry the hopes of a country struggling with prolonged conflict.
“We believe that winning AFCON could help ease the suffering caused by war back home, perhaps even inspire peace. Being away from our families and our homeland is extremely challenging, but we are committed to giving our best on the field to uplift our people,” Appiah said.
Sudan has faced years of civil unrest, which has tragically claimed thousands of lives and forced the national team to host all their AFCON 2025 qualifying matches abroad. Despite these hardships, Appiah and his players remain focused on their mission: to bring pride and hope to the Sudanese people through football.
Otto Addo has the support of former Ghanaian international Laryea Kingston to guide the side to victory before the 2026 World Cup.
Addo oversaw Ghana’s qualification for the Munial, which will be place in the USA, Canada, and Mexico next summer, after failing to lead the Black Stars to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) competition.
After ten games in the qualification series, the Black Stars finished as the group winners with 25 points.
Kingston thinks Otto Addo, 50, is capable of leading the team to victory despite calls for his dismissal prior to the competition.
However, the former Black Starlets coach advised Addo to make sure the team’s performance was consistent.
“Otto Addo has what it takes to lead every team because of the experience he has now,” Kingston told SuperSport Blitz.
“He has been at FC Nordsjaelland before going to Borussia Dortmund, a side that is just like Nordsjaelland, so I believe that in the long term, he will be a success for the national team, but there should be consistency,” he added.
The Black Stars will begin their campaign against Panama on June 17 in Toronto, face England on June 23 in Boston, and wrap up the group stage against Croatia on June 27 in Philadelphia.
Following early exits in both the 2014 and 2022 World Cups, Ghana will be aiming for a more successful run in the expanded 2026 tournament.
Meanwhile, Otto Addo is expected to name his final squad for the tournament on June 1.
Important players like Mohamed El Shenawy, Riyad Mahrez, Sadio Mané, and Amad Diallo have stood out as game-winners for their respective sides during the thrilling group stage of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
These players have shown their value on the European scene, from Mahrez’s leadership in attack to El Shenawy’s dominant presence in goal. The most reliable, powerful, and important group stage performers—those whose performances have set the tone for the knockout stages—are honored in the Best XI that follows.
Coach: Eric Chelle (Nigeria)
The Nigerian national team demonstrated tactical mastery and a tight team structure under Eric Chelle’s leadership. Chelle’s strategy was characterized by a strong defensive setup, fast transitions, and allowing attacking players to express themselves freely.
Nigeria demonstrated a balanced style of play during the group stage because to his great vision and steady decisions. One of the highlights of the group stage was Chelle’s ability to maximize his team’s potential and create a shared identity.
The Best XI of AFCON 2025’s group stage highlights the diversity and quality of African football. With experienced leaders like El Shenawy and Mahrez, combined with the youthful energy of Diallo and Baleba, these players have set the stage for a thrilling knockout phase. Their performances not only reflect individual brilliance but also the growing strength of African football on the global stage.
• Sadio Mané (Senegal): Even in the most tightly contested matches, Sadio Mané remained a constant threat. His pressing, intelligent movement, and clinical finishing meant that defenders always had to be alert. Mané’s leadership on the field was clear, as he led by example, often scoring or assisting in crucial moments. His relentless work ethic and ability to make the difference in big moments were key to Senegal’s success, reaffirming why he is considered one of the best African players of his generation.
• Amad Diallo (Ivory Coast): Diallo was a dynamo for Ivory Coast, using his explosive pace and unpredictability to create chaos in opposition defenses. His ability to take on defenders and produce moments of brilliance in the final third made him a key player for the Ivorian side. Diallo’s flair and creativity injected energy into every attack, making him one of the standout attacking players of the group stage. His dribbling and link-up play were vital to Ivory Coast’s attacking success.
• Riyad Mahrez (Algeria): As Algeria’s captain, Mahrez delivered with masterful playmaking and leadership. His vision, exquisite passing, and composure under pressure made him the central figure in Algeria’s attack. Although more of a playmaker than a traditional winger, Mahrez’s ability to dictate the tempo and produce decisive moments ensured Algeria remained a formidable force in the tournament. Whether it was a key pass or a perfectly executed free-kick, Mahrez’s presence was felt in every match.
• Ademola Lookman (Nigeria): The Nigerian forward turned midfielder, Lookman was a constant threat with his direct running, creativity, and eye for goal. His versatility allowed him to play both as an attacking midfielder and winger, and his movement off the ball was a nightmare for defenders. Lookman’s intelligence in finding pockets of space and his ability to produce key passes in critical moments made him one of the group stage’s most dangerous players.
• Carlos Baleba (Cameroon): The Cameroonian midfielder was a physical and tactical revelation. His powerful runs, tireless work rate, and composure on the ball were standout qualities throughout the group stage. Baleba played a key role in both defensive recovery and offensive transitions, providing balance to the Cameroon midfield. His ability to cover large areas of the pitch, win duels, and break up opposition attacks made him one of the most impactful players in the group stage.
• Brahim Diaz (Morocco): Brahim Diaz was one of the most exciting players of the group stage. Positioned just behind the strikers, his creativity, vision, and technical ability stood out. His dribbling skills and clever movement constantly disrupted defensive blocks, and he was often the catalyst for Morocco’s attacking play. Diaz’s ability to unlock defenses with his passing and his drive to make things happen made him an indispensable part of the Moroccan midfield.
• Yahia Attiat-Allah El Abdi (Morocco): On the left side, El Abdi was the embodiment of consistency. Rarely beaten by opposition wingers, his defensive reliability was matched by his ability to support offensive moves. His tactical discipline ensured Morocco maintained balance in defense while also contributing to their fluid attack. El Abdi’s steady performances allowed Morocco to dominate possession and nullify attacking threats.
• Edmond Tapsoba (Burkina Faso): As the Burkina Faso captain, Tapsoba was an imposing force in the center of defense. A master of anticipation, he was excellent in one-on-one situations and crucial in building play from the back. Tapsoba’s composed demeanor and sharp decision-making were key to Burkina Faso’s success in tight games. His leadership at the back was exemplary, making him one of the standout defenders of the group stage.
• Axel Tuanzebe (DR Congo): The DR Congo defender stood tall in the group stage with a blend of physicality and calmness under pressure. Tuanzebe proved to be one of the most reliable defenders, rarely caught out of position and dominant in aerial duels. His ability to read the game and shut down offensive threats before they became dangerous was crucial for his team. His performance reflected both maturity and skill, earning him a spot in the Best XI.
• Noussair Mazraoui (Morocco): Playing on the right side of defense, Mazraoui reaffirmed his status as one of the continent’s top fullbacks. His intelligent positioning, technical brilliance, and defensive discipline made him an essential figure in Morocco’s solid backline. But beyond defense, his ability to join the attack with pace and vision was pivotal in helping Morocco control games. Mazraoui’s tactical awareness and influence in building from the back were integral to the team’s success.
Goalkeeper: Mohamed El Shenawy (Egypt)
At 36 years old, Mohamed El Shenawy has shown that age is no obstacle to excellence. The Egyptian captain played a crucial role in guiding his team through a challenging group stage with remarkable composure and skill. His commanding presence on the line, authority in the air, and impeccable positioning made him a pillar for Egypt, often preventing opposition from scoring in high-pressure moments. El Shenawy’s leadership and experience were invaluable, reminding everyone that in a tournament like the Africa Cup of Nations, an experienced goalkeeper can make all the difference.
Renowned Ghanaian prophet Nigel Gaisie has prophesied that the Black Stars will reach the final of the 2026 World Cup.
Ghana, four-time African champions, will be making their fifth appearance at the World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico next summer.
The Black Stars have been drawn in Group L alongside Panama, England, and Croatia.
Speaking during the 31st Service at his Prophetic Hill Church, Gaisie confidently stated, “The Black Stars will reach the final of the 2026 World Cup.”
Ghana will kick off their group-stage campaign against Panama on June 17 in Toronto, before facing England on June 23 in Boston, and wrapping up against Croatia on June 27 in Philadelphia.
After early exits in Brazil 2014 and Qatar 2022, the Black Stars will be eager to make a stronger impact in the expanded 48-team tournament.
As part of Black Stars’ preparations for the World Cup, they will face Germany in an international friendly game on March 30 in Stuttgart.
The Gabon government suspends the national squad after a winless AFCON 2025 run.
In addition to Gabon’s early elimination from the Africa Cup of Nations, the government acted quickly to fire the technical staff of the national team and suspend the senior men’s squad indefinitely.
“The government has decided to dissolve the technical staff and suspend the national team until further notice,” said Mamboula, the acting Minister of Sports.
The Panthers were among the tournament’s early losers after a losing run, which heightened worries about the condition of football in the nation and prompted the decisive choice.
In Group F, the Panthers’ problems were evident right away. The team was put under pressure right away after an early loss to Cameroon established a bad tone.
Hopes of recovery faded further after a second loss to Mozambique, a result that left Gabon needing a strong response in their final group match to salvage pride and avoid a disappointing finish.
That response briefly appeared to materialise against Côte d’Ivoire. Gabon surged into a 2–0 lead, showing attacking intent and resilience that had been missing earlier in the tournament. For a moment, the Panthers looked set to end their campaign on a positive note.
However, the Ivorians mounted a powerful comeback, scoring three unanswered goals to turn the match on its head and seal a 3–2 victory. The collapse confirmed Gabon’s elimination with a record of three matches played and no wins.
The fallout was immediate and severe. In a clear signal of dissatisfaction, the Gabonese authorities opted to dissolve the entire technical setup and suspend the national team until further notice.
The move reflects frustration not only with results on the pitch but also with broader concerns about planning, leadership, and accountability within the national football structure.
