European champions Spain and Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal aim to secure their spots in the World Cup last 16 on Thursday, while Algeria seeks to restore pride for African football after other continental teams' early exits.
A proposal to expand the Africa Cup of Nations from 24 to 28 teams has been rejected by the Confederation of African Football's executive committee. The plan, put forward by CAF president Patrice Motsepe, was voted down due to concerns about its necessity and lack of prior consultation.
Ivory Coast manager Emerse Fae expressed sadness and disappointment over former German player Bastian Schweinsteiger's "African football" comments, which Fae called potentially racist, after his team qualified for their first World Cup knockout phase with a 2-0 win over Curacao.
Ivory Coast manager Emerse Fae called former Germany midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger's comments about his team's "wild" and "African football" style "sad" and potentially racist. Fae expressed disappointment in Schweinsteiger, suggesting biases influenced his remarks.
Senegal faces Norway in a crucial World Cup qualifier, with African performance at the tournament under scrutiny. Despite increased representation, many African teams have struggled, highlighting a need for strong performances to justify expanded slots.
Ghana's football team, despite past dominance, has faced decades of disappointment, marked by managerial instability and recent player eligibility issues. A plan to send fans to the World Cup was also altered due to economic constraints.
Nigerian goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, 25, has become the only keeper to win CAF's Golden Gloves three consecutive times (2023-2025). The Brighton player, who debuted at the World Cup aged 18, discusses her surprise at the achievement, her role as team DJ, and the WAFCON postponement that frustrated players and fans alike.
