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Uganda coach Johnathan McKinstry believes bragging rights will push his players to give their best and win against neighbours Rwanda in the African Nations Championship. 

The two nations are in Group C alongside defending champions Morocco and West African nation Togo. The youthful tactician believes the rivalry between the two teams will push his players to give their best and get a win.

"It is a big derby game to start the tournament with, Uganda and Rwanda are old rivals and that means a lot for the players," McKinstry said ahead of their game against the Amavubi.

"For them, they know it is not only about three points and the path towards qualification to the next round, but they also know it is about local bragging rights in the region."  

The Northern Irish football manager believes he has some kind of knowledge about his rivals that will play some part in helping Cranes get a win. However, he has insisted he will not be changing his style of play but will capitalise on his strengths to have an advantage over their rivals.

"We feel we know where their strengths are and we are making sure we are covering up for those in the coming few training sessions," McKinstry continued.

"It is not about doing anything new, it is about focusing on our one or two specific areas of our own style that we feel will bring a maximum advantage.  

"For me obviously, it is my first time coming up against Rwanda. My hard look at the squad and 18 out of 30 players played for me several years ago. 

"It is a very experienced squad but hopefully my knowledge of some of the players can aid Ugandan calls in getting the results that everyone back at home and everyone here is desperate for."  

Their first assignment will be on Monday, January 18 against Rwanda. Four days later, they will be playing the defending champions Morocco before finishing up with Togo on January 26. Cranes have never made it out of the group stage of the competition. 

The tournament kicks off on Saturday, January 16. 

Mamelodi Sundowns and SuperSport United battle for Premier Soccer League (PSL) pole position when they collide in a top-of-the-table encounter at Lucas Moripe Stadium on Saturday.

The Tshwane giants are separated by just two points with Sundowns on top of the standings with 24 points, while Matsatsantsa are second.

It is a clash with a potential to see Downs drop to third spot in case they lose and if also third-placed Swallows FC beat Baroka FC on the same day.

SuperSport have a chance to claim the lead if they win, but if they lose, they could remain second or slide down to third spot while the Brazilians remain at the top.

That makes Saturday's match a potentially explosive encounter.

TV Channel, Live Score & How To Watch

Squads & Team News

Giuly Manziba is the only known absentee from coach Kaitano Tembo's SuperSport camp as he is still out injured and has not featured in any match this season.

His absence has, however, not been felt as Tembo has invested some trust in the likes of Sipho Mbuli, Teboho Mokoena, Siyabonga Nhlapo and Jamie Webber who have been doing well in midfield.

The fiery Sundowns attacking partnership of Themba Zwane, Peter Shalulile and Kermit Erasmus is likely to start together for the first time since December 5, 2020 when they were held 1-1 by Maritzburg United.

Since then, they have not been together on the pitch for four league games.

Zwane and Erasmus were absent in recent weeks, but are now back and there are strong chances that they could all be in the starting XI on Saturday.

That would be some worrying news for SuperSport defenders especially the presence of Zwane who has scored eight goals in eight league appearances.

Gift Motupa is back in training and could make his Downs debut while Mauricio Affonso remains out with a long term injury

Match Preview

Making this match one to look forward to is that it is a battle of teams that have defined attacking combinations which are shaking PSL defences.

Both teams have each scored 19 league goals in 10 PSL games in this campaign.

Grobler and Gabuza have teamed up to contribute 15 of Matsatsantsa's 19 goals in what could be a concern for Sundowns.

On the other hand, Zwane, Shalulile and Erasmus have teamed up to share 14 goals of Downs' tally.

That is intriguing stuff which could make defenders of both teams endure a torrid afternoon.

Sundowns go into this match unbeaten in the league this season, with their last loss coming at the hands of Baroka FC on August 30, 2020 during the PSL bio-bubble.

That gives them a run of 12 league matches undefeated.

They face a SuperSport side that has lost two games so far in this campaign but has gone for six consecutive matches without being beaten.

The last league meeting between the Tshwane giants saw Downs completing a double over SuperSport last season by winning 2-1 in January 2020, after having also won the reverse fixture 2-0.

Matsatsantsa's last victory over Sundowns came in April 2019 when they won 2-0.

Since 1990, Sundowns have won 31 of the two sides’ 58 clashes, with Matsatsantsa claiming victory 15 times, while 12 matches have ended as draws.

Tanzania coach Etienne Ndayiragije has come out to state the recent explosion which rocked Limbe Stadium will not affect the team’s targets in the African Nations Championship which starts in Cameroon on Saturday.

Explosions were reported outside the Limbe Omnisport Stadium on Thursday and heading into the tournament, Cameroon have faced criticism for using a host stadium in the South-West region against a backdrop of local instability.

Zambia, Tanzania, Guinea, and Namibia, who are in Group D, are expected to play at the Omnisport Stadium during the tournament, which is reserved for home-based African players. The first game at the stadium is scheduled to be between Tanzania and Zambia next Tuesday.

Despite the situation in Limbe, Taifa Stars coach Ndayiragije has maintained they have not been affected nor faced disturbing issues since they arrived in the town and they are preparing to play their opening match without focusing on what is happening there.

“We have been assured that there is tight security, and we have not been affected in any way since we arrived here, so our focus is on what brought us, to play in the tournament, and we have already set our targets and that is where we have turned our energy to,” Ndayiragije told Azam TV.

“We have asked the players not to be concerned about the situation, we are here to play and win our matches and we have to focus, and that is our main target here.”

Although the attack on Thursday did not have any fatalities, several cars were destroyed, amidst ongoing concerns about the safety of the region due to separatist tensions.

The reported terrorist act was claimed by 'Fako Action Forces', according to local source Journal du Cameroon. The explosion reportedly took place on the 'perimeter' of the Limbe Stadium, just one of the venues designated to host Chan matches.

On whether Tanzania are ready for the tournament having played only one build-up match against DR Congo which ended in a 1-1 draw, Ndayiragije said: “I thank the federation for giving us the friendly against DR Congo, it was a very good training friendly for us because it gave us the real picture of where the team is because we did not have time to train.

“We don’t need to talk about whether we had enough time to train or not, that should not be the case now, I don’t want my players to use that scapegoat, no…we did what we did and now it is time to focus and do the job that brought us here and we will use what we have to achieve our goals.

“You can have a long training session but come to a tournament and lose your matches and you can still have a few days of training and go to a tournament and surprise the teams and reach the final or even win the trophy, so we are not looking at how our opponents trained ahead of the competition, our focus is to use what we have and enter the pitch to win our matches.”

Cameroon will start the event by playing Zimbabwe in the capital on January 16.

Apart from the Omnisport Stadium in Limbe, other stadiums that will be used are the Ahmadou Ahidjo Stadium in Yaounde which will host Group A games. Group B fixtures will be played at Japoma Stadium in Douala, while Group C participants will be playing at the Douala Reunification Stadium.

Harambee Stars forward Michael Olunga will for the first time appear in the Fifa Club World Cup after Al-Duhail SC earned a slot when Auckland City FC withdrew.

The New Zealand club withdrew from the global club competition due to strict coronavirus restrictions still active in their country. The Club World Cup was itself shifted from December 2020 to February 2021 due to the Covid-19 pandemic and will be played in Qatar.

Fifa admitted they could not find a quick solution – especially around isolation and quarantine - to have Auckland City participate.

“Fifa has been informed by Auckland City FC that, in light of the Covid-19 pandemic and related quarantine measures required by the New Zealand authorities, the club will be unable to participate in the Fifa Club World Cup 2020,” the world football governing body said.

 “Despite Fifa’s regular exchanges with the club, New Zealand Football and the OFC in recent days, the requirements of the New Zealand authorities in relation to isolation and quarantine go beyond Fifa’s remit and, therefore, it was not possible to reach a solution.”

German champions Bayern Munich are going to be Europe’s representatives as Olunga’s side, plus Al Ahly of Egypt – the Caf Champions League 2019 winners –, Ulsan Hyundai of South Korea, Tigres UANL of Mexico are the other contestants.

Brazilian sides Santos and Palmeiras will contest for the Copa Libertadores and the winner from the January 30 final will join the rest in Qatar.

“Following the withdrawal of Auckland City, the Fifa Club World Cup 2020 will be contested by Al-Duhail SC, Al Ahly SC, FC Bayern Munich, Ulsan Hyundai FC, Tigres UANL and the winners of the Conmebol Libertadores final scheduled for 30 January,” Fifa added.

Fifa confirmed strict health protocols will be implemented in order to safeguard the participants.

“Fifa together with the Qatari authorities will implement a comprehensive medical and security protocol providing the safeguards required to protect the health and safety of everyone involved in the competition,” it concluded.

“The first-round match will no longer take place and Al Duhail SC will begin the competition in the second round. The competition format remains otherwise unchanged.”

The draw for the tournament – last won by Liverpool - will take place on January 19 in Zurich, Switzerland.

Former Chelsea and Atletico Madrid defender Filipe Luis has claimed Rojiblancos boss Diego Simeone - who he describes as a father figure - is not a great man-manager.

The full-back had a couple of spells under Simeone at Atletico, and has said there were a number of crossed words between two fiery characters.

Filipe Luis has claimed Simeone was a cross between a father and a friend, but has claimed the former Argentina international did struggle to manage players on a personal level.

“He used to say that the best way of respecting everybody is leaving everybody ready for a moment he could need,” the 35-year-old told O Jogo . “He demanded the maximum at every training session, everything with him is at the maximum. 

“Was he good at dealing with people? No. It is not easy for him to deal with the players’ personalities but he swallows his pride.

“Some problems happened: Joao Felix kicked a bottle of water, [Luis] Suarez went out mad [after being substituted].

“He does have a good feeling with some of the players and with others he is more professional. 

“Is he good dealing with football players? Kind of... but he is not one of the best I've worked with. [Current Brazil coach] Tite is spectacular in this area. He makes everybody feel super important - his ability to speak is extraordinary.”

Filipe Luis won La Liga, a Copa del Rey and two Europa Leagues under Simeone and had a close relationship with his boss, but they often differed on playing style - with the Brazilian eager to switch away from his manager’s defensive approach.

"We used to have a constant argument with him, to play more [with the ball],” Filipe Luis said. “He was like a father, a friend, we were together for a long period. He used to sit with me and [Diego] Godin, joking: 'Do you want to play? Talk to me, does Godin have a good foot to create from the back?' 

“Simeone believes a lot in his work. All the 11 players have to work very hard. He changes the tactical system during a game, changes the pieces according to the opposition. 

“He is a very complete manager - I've seen him winning games based on one player from the opposite team. 

“I wanted to play a little more [in an attacking sense], but what can I say? For Atletico he's the best manager there is.”

FC Goa are enjoying a purple patch of form lately as they have amassed 10 points from a possible 12 in their last four matches. The Gaurs are placed third on the Indian Super League (ISL) table although they have played a game more than other teams in the top four.

Coach Juan Ferrando assured that his team will improve their performance in the second half of the campaign and that they are still searching for their best form. On Sunday evening, Goa will be up against second placed ATK Mohun Bagan, who will look to bounce back from their 1-0 loss to Mumbai City FC.

“All the games are very important for us. Of course, tomorrow is a nice game against a good team and a new opportunity to get three points and to improve as a team. All the teams will be better in the second round. We have to change some details and prepare with different plans. We also have more options and we have to find the best way forward for the team,” said Ferrando.

He stressed that every match in the season is equally important and that a few wins on the trot can put any team in contention for a play-off berth.

“Every game is crucial. The problem is that the season is short and every game is very important. For example, yesterday we were talking about Kerala (Blasters) going three points behind the play-off (sports) if they would have won the game,” he reasoned.

“In the end, you know that the ATK Mohun Bagan squad is very competitive and it's the same with us. I hope tomorrow will be a very good game. Both teams want to win three points and I think the result will be a beautiful game for sure,” he added.

Star striker Igor Angulo was benched in their last game against Jamshedpur FC earlier this week due to a knock. Ferrando was questioned if the Spanish forward would play a role in Sunday’s marquee clash between teams in the top half of the table.

“We have a very good squad. I'm happy because we can prepare for the game with all players. Of course, fitness of players is very important. Some players are tired. The last decision will be after the training, to decide which is the best team for ATK Mohun Bagan.”

Ferrando is pleased with the squad at his disposal and that the players are performing on a consistent basis which has helped them climb into the third position. He also reiterated that his decisions on selection are purely based on what he thinks is in the best interests of the team.

“In the pre-season, we worked with all the players. For example, in this week, we don't have a lot of time to prepare with all the players before the games. In the end, this is the situation. We try to take the best decisions for all the players. I'm happy because all the players are ready and working. Of course, I want to give everybody an opportunity but it's only possible to play 11 and all the time I'm thinking what is the best for the team,” said Ferrando.

Tusker FC forward Boniface Muchiri has stated he will start scoring in the FKF-Premier League at the right time and does not want to put himself under unnecessary pressure by comparing himself with others.

The former Sony Sugar winger has been a regular for the 11-time league champions but while his fellow attackers have at least found the back of the net this season, the winger is struggling to match them.

"I am not worried about my drought in front of goal because I know the moment I will score one goal, others will automatically come," Muchiri told the club's online TV.

"I also have my targets for the season that I am aiming at achieving. It is all about patience and waiting at the right time. I do not want to force things and put myself under unnecessary pressure because maybe others are scoring and I have not.  

"I am glad right now I can run, play, shoot the ball and such."

The 26-year-old was out of the game for about a year owing to an injury sustained. He has explained how it affected him and the reason he managed to come back stronger.  

"I have personally come a long way; staying out of football for a year because of an injury leaves you several steps behind," Muchiri continued.

"If you are not strong mentally and without match fitness, it will take you time before you get your rhythm and be at par with your colleagues. The best thing for me is that I have been mentally strong.

"Coach Robert Matano has played a huge role in helping me develop a strong mentality. He demands what he knows you are capable of giving since he has records of your past performance. So being strong mentally is the reason why I have come back from injury, worked hard, and managed to return to the first team."

The Ruaraka-based charges started the FKF-Premier League season badly but their form picked up along the way. 

The Brewers will be playing second-placed Kariobangi Sharks on Saturday and the experienced winger has opined on what they have to do to win the game.

"The season has been good despite several challenges like a poor start. We started with a loss and a draw, then won several games before drawing again.

"The team is doing well, we are developing together and working as a team.

"The team has prepared well and I believe if we work according to the instructions given then everything will be fine. The team that will take its chances will carry the day. The team that will stamp authority in midfield will carry the day. It is what we want to do and work hard towards achieving our goal."

Steve Bruce has launched a blistering attack on his players, saying Newcastle were “frigging hopeless the other night; we were absolutely sh*te” in the loss to Sheffield United.

The Magpies have slipped towards the relegation places in the Premier League on the back of a run of eight games without a win in all competitions - and defeat to the Blades on Tuesday was a low point.

Sheffield United had not won a game in the Premier League prior to beating Newcastle 1-0 courtesy of Billy Sharp’s 73rd-minute penalty.

Up next for Newcastle is a trip to Arsenal on Monday, but Bruce’s focus was still on the loss to the Blades and he made his feelings abundantly clear on the team’s performance.

“We were absolutely frigging hopeless the other night; we were absolutely sh*te,” The Guardian quoted Bruce as saying. “Unfortunately that’s happened a little too often in my 18 months here; it was nowhere near good enough for the challenge ahead. Maybe it’s a mentality thing.

“We’ve thrown that hand grenade in too often and that’s what we have to erase. It’s the disappointing thing I’m going to have to improve.”

It is believed that Bruce has a desire to use a back four, but the players are happier with the five-man defence used so well by previous boss Rafa Benitez.

It appears that Bruce, who said that he would not quit, will make changes in the near future to play the way he wants.

“The gloves are off now and we will do it my way,” Bruce said. “It (changing to a back four) is something I’ve toyed with since I’ve been at the club

“We’ve played a certain way in the past to try to make sure we get the results we need. I’ve let them be comfortable. But, like I say, the gloves are off now. I’m going to do things the way I see fit. We’ll do it my way.”

Newcastle are 15th in the table heading into the latest round of Premier League matches. They are seven points above the drop zone, but momentum is not on their side and following the trip to Arsenal they visit Aston Villa.

Kaizer Chiefs would be keen to build on the midweek victory away at AmaZulu when they visit Cape Town City for Saturday's Premier Soccer League tie at Cape Town Stadium.

Fresh from recording their first league win in three months when they beat Usuthu 1-0, 10th-placed Chiefs are out for another successful outing.

Prior to the AmaZulu win, they were just a point from bottom-placed Black Leopards, but they steered four points clear from the base of the table.

Victory on Saturday will push them further up that standings into the top eight, given that Baroka FC and Stellenbosch do not win their respective matches on the same day.

But a defeat would pull them back to 14th spot if also Bloemfontein Celtic, Tshakhuma Tsha Madzivhandila, Maritzburg United and TS Galaxy win their games in what would bring back relegation worries for Amakhosi.

City have been enjoying a decent season, currently sitting fifth on the standings with six points better than Chiefs and would want to maintain or better their respectful position.

TV Channel, Live Score & How To Watch

Squads & Team News

Cape Town City welcome back the midfield trio of Mpho Makola, Thabo Nodada and Craig Martin who have all recovered from the coronavirus and missed their last two league games.

City coach Jan Olde Riekerink would be hoping rumours that Craig Martin is a possible January departure (following reports that he is on the radar of Orlando Pirates) will not distract the player. 

Riekerink could also unleash his new signing Justin Shonga who was signed from Tshakhuma Tsha Madzivhandila and arrived in Cape Town earlier this week.

Although Shonga was not at his best at TTM, his signing is expected to add more fire-power to the Citizens' attack.

Already, Mduduzi Mdantsane has been in terrific form for City, scoring seven league goals in nine appearances and the arrival of Shonga could see the emergence of a deadly attacking partnership.

Bradley Ralani, Thato Mokeke and Taariq Fielies are some of the regular players that could carry City if available for selection.

Chiefs welcome back midfielder Willard Katsande and attacker Lebogang Manyama who missed the last two league games under unclear circumstances.

The duo hasn't had much of an impact this season but their experience could count if fielded.

Defender Erick Mathoho who missed the trip to AmaZulu on Wednesday is again not available as he is in isolation after attending a family bereavement this week.

Forward Leonardo Castro was also absent from that match due to an abdominal strain but is expected to feature on Saturday.

Certain to be out is Khama Billiat who will be sidelined for two months to nurse a broken leg.

Match Preview

Chiefs have not enjoyed a good run in this PSL campaign with a record of two wins, four draws and as many defeats.

Their victory over AmaZulu on Wednesday was the first since October, 2020 and beating Cape Town City would be the first time for Amakhosi to stitch two straight wins across all competitions this season.

They come up against a City side that has four wins, four draws and two defeats in this campaign, with eight points fewer than leaders Mamelodi Sundowns.

But the hosts go into this contest on the backdrop of being held 2-2 by Tshakhuma Tsha Madzivhandila in their last outing and a 3-2 defeat by Swallows FC in the preceding game.

It is a run that could be offering hope to Chiefs that collecting maximum points on the road again is possible.

Amakhosi were victorious the last time they met City in a league match, convincingly winning 3-0 at home 12 months ago.

NorthEast United parted ways with Gerard Nus following their 1-1 draw with Bengaluru FC earlier this week. Since then, Khalid Jamil has been named the interim coach of the side for the remainder of the Indian Super League (ISL) season.

Alison Kharsyntiew, who serves as the assistant coach of the side, opined that Jamil can guide NorthEast United into the top four. He also pointed that Jamil has done reasonably well in the Indian football circuit having most famously clinched the I-League title with Aizawl FC.

“Khalid is a good coach. He has been very successful in Indian football and I'm sure he will bring in a lot in terms of performance and results. We have to be consistent in our performances and if we are consistent, I'm sure we will reach the top four. We have to work hard as a team and give our best,” said Kharsyntiew.

NorthEast United haven’t won a single match in their last outings and the onus will be on with them when they face Jamshedpur FC this Sunday evening.

“We always play a balanced game. If we lose the ball, we try to defend and if we win the ball, we try to create chances,” he mentioned.

The good news for the club is that striker Idrissa Sylla is back in contention for a start after missing the last game due to a knock. However, new signing Deshorn Brown may not be handed a start but could possibly be on the bench.

“We have to wait for that. He's (Brown) a good signing by the club. By his calibre, I think he can help a lot with our remaining matches,” said Kharsyntiew.

He also shared his thoughts on striker Kwesi Appiah, who picked up an injury last month and has been ruled of action for the rest of the campaign.

“He's still under treatment with the medical team.”

The former Shillong Lajong coach also spoke on the threat Nerijus Valskis poses and that his defenders need to be alert throughout in order to keep the ISL Golden Boot winner in check.

“The team is ready and motivated for tomorrow's match and our focus is only on tomorrow's match. We have to be very focused and concentrated and we should not allow any space for Valskis,” said Kharsyntiew.

Azam FC completed their mini-transfer window with the signing of Yahya Zayd from Egypt’s Pharco FC.

The diminutive attacker has arrived at the Chamazi-based giants on a six-month loan deal and will be returning to a side which nurtured him through the Azam Academy.

Azam have confirmed the arrival of Zayd on their social media pages by stating: “Azam have succeeded to capture the signature of the attacker, Yahya Zayd, on a six-month loan from Egypt's Pharco.

“Zayd is one of the players who grew up at Azam Academy station before he climbed to the senior team and we later sold him to Egyptian giants Ismaily the other year.”

During the mini-transfer window which shut doors at midnight on January 15, Azam brought on board striker Mpiana Mozinzi from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Ugandan goalkeeper Mathis Kigonya from Zambia.

Kigonya signed for Azam a day after confirming his exit from Forest Rangers of the Zambian Super League. Kigonya signed for Forest Rangers in 2019 when he was handed a two-year deal and his transfer move means he has joined his international compatriot Nicholas Wadada.

At Azam, Kigonya is expected to fight for regular places with Benedict Haule, David Mapigano, and Wilbol Kaseke.

In the previous transfer window, Azam signed Mapigano from FKF Premier League champions Gor Mahia and even though the Tanzanian had a good start, poor results from matchday eight of the ongoing campaign saw him used inter-changeably with Haule.

Kaseke has always played second fiddle but was prominently deployed in the Mapinduzi Cup where Azam were eliminated by Yanga SC in the semi-finals.

The signing of the three players will be a great boost for the George Lwandamina led side, who are still fighting to wrestle the league title from Simba SC.

On Friday, Azam also confirmed the return of striker Prince Dube after undergoing an operation in South Africa to repair his ulnar of the left hand.

Dube picked the injury during their derby against Yanga SC at Chamazi Stadium in late November but he has already returned to training and even featured in a friendly against Malindi FC which they won 2-0 on Friday.

Dube had made a bright start to his career at Azam with six goals and four assists in the league and was also voted the Tanzania Mainland Premier League Player of the Month for September.

His absence was the main reason why Lwandamina claimed he will have to sign a few players in the mini-transfer window if the team is to remain among the title contenders.

Tanzania giants Simba SC have confirmed the signing of striker Perfect Chikwende from Zimbabwe.

The 27-year-old star arrived at the Wekundu wa Msimbazi on transfer deadline day with the team announcing on their social media pages: “Perfect Chikwende is officially red, our fellow.

"Chikwende who is a Zimbabwe citizen and playing in the attacking position has joined the reigning champions from Zimbabwe giants FC Platinum.”

The statement continued: “Chikwende also played for the Bulawayo Chiefs in Zimbabwe. We are signing him because of the targets we have set for the season, welcome to the group of winners Chikwende ‘the Bull’.”

Chikwende was spotted by Simba in January during their second-round of the Caf Champions League two-legged fixture with the striker proving thorny in Simba's defence and managed to score the only goal of the first meeting staged in Harare which saw Platinum beat Simba 1-0 to take a slim advantage heading into the return leg.

However, in the return leg, Simba turned on the screw to win the clash 4-0 at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam courtesy of goals from Erasto Nyoni, Shomari Kapombe, John Bocco, and Clatous Chama to advance to the group stage of the competition on a 4-1 aggregate win.

Chikwende becomes the only player signed by Simba during the mini-transfer window which closed the doors on January 15 at midnight and will not be eligible to play in the group stage of the Champions League, having featured for Platinum in the preliminary round.

However, he will come in handy to help Simba clinch their fourth Mainland Premier League title in a row but he will have to fight for a starting role alongside Rwandan striker Meddie Kagere, Bocco, and Chris Mugalu.

Simba are currently without a coach following the exit of Belgian Sven Vandenbroeck, who has already been unveiled by FAR Rabat of Morocco and according to the club’s CEO Barbara Gonzalez, they are not in a hurry to appoint a replacement.

“When it comes to getting a new coach, the process is usually lengthy since it requires much attention by going through all the available documents,” Gonzalez told reporters in a recent interview.

“If you make decisions in a hurry to find him, it may affect you throughout the whole season,” she noted. She named some of the nationalities of people whose CVs have reached the club, are from Serbia, France, Portugal, and many others from different parts of the world.

“We have put in place key requirements of the incoming coach we need like club coaching experience. If you remember, when Vandenbroeck came in, he had vast experience at national team level only and it took more time for him to catch up.

“He should also have experience in Caf club tournaments as among other essential requirements for the job’s qualification.”

In the group stage of the Champions League, Simba have been drawn in Group A alongside Al-Ahly of Egypt, AS Vita from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Sudanese giants Al-Merrikh.

Tanzania champions Simba SC have denied reports linking them with former coach Patrick Aussems.

The Belgian tactician left the Wekundu wa Msimbazi at the start of 2019-20 season with Vandenbroeck coming in as the replacement.

After a successive campaign with the team, Vandenbroeck finally left the club two weeks ago and has already been unveiled by FAR Rabat of Morocco.

With Simba now searching for his successor, reports have emerged that Aussems has already been picked to take over the mantle at the club.

However, Simba secretary-general Arnold Kashembe has admitted many coaches have shown interest to replace Vandenbroeck but dismissed claims they had settled on Aussems return.

“There are so many coaches who have applied to come to Simba including Patrick [Aussems], but we have not given him the job, those are just rumours, if we get a new coach, we will put it in the public for everyone to see,” Kashembe said as quoted by Sokalabongo.

“The process is still ongoing and it is true there are many names of those who want to coach Simba, it is clear Simba is a great institution so everyone wants to work for the team.”

In a recent interview, Aussems revealed he is ready to return and take charge of the champions again.

“I am very ready for a return. They now have a stronger squad than what I had in the previous two seasons,” Aussems told Mwanaspoti.

“I am ready to come back if at all I will receive a call from the club’s owner. But it would also be right to confirm that I have got other offers from some African teams.

“I lived with Simba quite well and I know the doors are still open and for that reason, I will prioritise them over any other team that would approach me.”

The coach further pointed out key areas that would convince him to rejoin the 2020 treble winners. If you look at Simba’s players individually, then you will see that they have incredibly improved and that is always a boost for any coach,” the retired defender said.

“And for that reason, I am ready to come back if and when they will ask me to. It would be easy for me to take charge as they are already accustomed to my way of play; attacking football that is meant to entertain everyone including the fans.”

Simba are currently under assistant coach Selemani Matola.

If there was ever a near-perfect representation of the oft-repeated ‘game of two halves’ in football lexicon, the encounter between Tottenham Hotspur and Fulham on Wednesday would be a good example.

Spurs dominated the opening half, missed a glut of opportunities — scoring just one through Harry Kane — only to be pegged back after half-time as the Cottagers rallied following Scott Parker’s half-time pep talk.

Perhaps, the telling difference for the West Londoners was Ademola Lookman, strangely left out of the action until the 67th minute. The impact of the Anglo-Nigerian in those subsequent 23 minutes on the pitch raised questions about why Parker left out the RB Leipzig loanee in the first place.

Lookman not only registered the assist for Ivan Cavaleiro’s headed equalizer after brilliantly skinning Davidson Sanchez but he also very nearly set up what could have been the winner had Ruben Loftus-Cheek been sharper in front of goal. He may have even settled the game himself late on if Aboubakar Kamara raised his head to see the attacker in oceans of space to his left, almost begging to be played through.

In only 23 minutes, Lookman was involved in three shot-creating actions, only Antonee Robinson & Loftus-Cheek with four had more, led the way for chances created with three, while only Bobby Decordova-Reid (three) played more accurate passes into the Spurs area.

That assist made Lookman Fulham’s highest goal contributor with five, and expect him to start against Chelsea on Saturday, particularly with RLC ineligible to face his parent club.

His direct running is likely to trouble a Blues backline and goalkeeper that’s looked extremely brittle in recent weeks, with Edouard Mendy coming under pressure for varying reasons, from his suspect sweeping ability to now-unconvincing shot-stopping.

It remains to be seen if Frank Lampard starts primary right-back Reece James, who returned to training this week or opts for club captain Cesar Azpilicueta. The Spaniard looks to have lost a yard of pace and could, in theory, have a torrid time against the rapid Lookman, by and large also the Cottagers’ most-threatening and creative forward.

Of the attackers in the Fulham side, Lookman ranks highest for key passes per 90, shot-creating actions per 90 and goal-creating actions per 90. If leaving out the on-loan 23-year-old from the XI against Tottenham was odd, making the same call after his showing off the bench and, especially, against a struggling Chelsea team will prompt even more criticism of the head coach.

If Lookman’s ability and delivery makes him the hosts’ top attacker, Andre Zambo Anguissa could pass as the leading midfielder for the relegation-threatened side.

The all-action midfield man packs a punch and is nearly unstoppable when he’s in full flow, gliding and weaving past opponents like they aren’t there. His already high value in this Fulham team increases when you realise the level of effort the Cameroon midfielder also puts into the blue-collar aspects of the game.

Anguissa made a stunning 17 recoveries against Tottenham and was one of the team’s top pressers against Jose Mourinho’s men. Unsurprisingly, the Central African completed a game-high six dribbles from eight attempts and equally helped to fashion out shooting opportunities, ranking joint-third along with Lookman for shot-creating actions.

Be that as it may, the two games that perfectly demonstrate what the 25-year-old is all about were those against Manchester City and Southampton in December.

Despite losing 2-0 at the Etihad Stadium, he was always positive in his play, evidenced by his forward-thinking passing and ball-carrying. Aside from completing all seven attempted dribbles against Pep Guardiola’s men, the Indomitable Lion was involved in the highest volume of offensive actions leading to a Fulham shot (three).

Against Saints, Anguissa topped for combined tackles and interceptions (10) as he did vs City weeks earlier while ranking third for loose balls recovered (13) against the side from the south coast — narrowly beaten by Bobby Reid and Joachim Andersen (both 14).

He wasn't dispossessed all game despite a high level of involvement and general keenness to carry the ball upfield against a side that presses as effectively as Ralph Hasenhuttl’s troops.  

It came as no surprise to see that both he and Lookman ranked in the top two for shot-creating actions, successful progressive passes and progressive ball-carrying. Indeed, the pair will be vital to Fulham’s approach against their neighbours, who will look to the talismanic Hakim Ziyech to deliver at the Cottage as they seek to arrest troubling run.

The Morocco star missed the majority of the Blues’ slump and only returned in their embarrassing 3-1 defeat by Manchester City. His tendency to attempt risky passes to open up the pitch or fashion out opportunities add a unique dimension to Lampard’s side and they benefitted from this last time out in the 4-0 FA Cup success over Morecambe on Sunday.

Admittedly, Fulham will pose a much sterner test than the League Two side but it was a good run out for the North African, whose high-risk high-reward style unites a Chelsea attack that looked sterile without him early in the season and unproductive for the majority of their December slump.

As for Fulham, while many observers feel their improvement began in that 1-1 draw vs Liverpool, that assumption couldn’t be further from the truth. Rather, they’ve tightened up after losing their first three games 3-0, 4-3 and 3-0 to Arsenal, Leeds United and Aston Villa respectively, with those seven goals accounting for 30 percent of their 24 goals conceded.

Interestingly, while they’ve lost the expected goals battle nine times in their 16 fixtures, only five times have they been defeated by a wide margin (Arsenal, Villa, Crystal Palace, Man City and Spurs). This further strengthens suggestions that Parker’s side have been unlucky in some fixtures or made bad decisions at times, with Lookman’s failed Panenka vs West Ham United probably a fitting example.

14 points separate the sides in the table, but Anguissa’s drive and menacing Anglo-Nigerian threaten to ramp up the pressure on a currently struggling Chelsea side and under-fire Lampard.

Nigeria have qualified for the 2021 U17 Africa Cup of Nations after securing a 1-0 victory over Burkina Faso in the U17 Wafu B semi-finals on Friday.

Michael Emmanuel Papo scored the only goal of the encounter to send the Golden Eaglets to the final of the regional tournament which is being hosted by Togo.

Nigeria started the competition unimpressively after losing 1-0 against Ivory Coast in their opening Group B match, with Charles Mezia scoring the solitary goal.

Fatai Amoo’s boys then played out a 1-1 draw against Ghana which almost ended their campaign in the tournament but managed to reach the semi-finals after the Black Starlets lost to the young Elephants.

The Golden Eaglets boss Amoo named a strong squad for the encounter against Burkina Faso in their quest to secure victory.

Destiny Emuwahem started in goal for Nigeria while Victor Udoh, Joseph Kuteyi, Chukwuemeka Egbu, Peter Asuquo and Papo were also handed starting roles.

The match got underway with both sides aiming to outwit each other but despite their efforts, the first half ended 0-0.

After the restart, Papo broke the deadlock in the 77th minute of the encounter, firing home his effort from close range.

The goal was all the Golden Eaglets needed to seal their place in the final of the tournament and also qualify for the 2021 U17 Afcon in Morocco.

Nigeria will take on Ivory Coast in the final scheduled for January 18 in Lome after the young Elephants defeated Niger in the semi-finals on Friday. 

The Golden Eaglets finished fourth at the 2019 U17 Afcon in Tanzania to qualify for the World Cup in Brazil.

Nigeria, under the guidance of Manu Garba, were, however, eliminated at the round of 16 of the competition after losing against the Netherlands.

The Golden Eaglets have won the U17 World Cup five times, making them the most successful team at the global tournament.

Scott Neville's 90+5' goal which earned East Bengal a point against Kerala Blasters was nothing but poetic justice for the Red and Golds who had dropped two points just a month against the same opposition when Jeakson scored late in the match.

Friday's encounter was an end-to-end affair. However, the fare on display did not really set the stage alight. East Bengal had more ball possession in the match while Kerala Blasters created better goal scoring opportunities.

East Bengal received an early blow even before the match started as Raju Gaikwad was ruled out of the game after he had picked up an injury in the warm-up. Rana Gharami came in as a late change in the starting lineup. Gaikwad, who looked to have adapted well to Fowler's system, was a miss for the Red and Golds as Gharami looked shaky and unsettled throughout the match. In fact, Gharami was at fault for not covering Jordan Murray who latched on to a long goal-kick from Albino Gomes to score the opener.

Also, it was a rare off day in midfield for Matti Steinmann. The German midfielder who plays a pivotal role in this East Bengal side and controls the pace of the game was not at his usual best, allowing the Kerala Blasters players time and space in midfield. 

It could be argued that Steinmann was playing his fourth consecutive game in just 12 days and fatigue might have played its part in his underwhelming outing. It was no surprise to see Fowler bench him in the second half and bring Anthony Pilkington on. This switch saw East Bengal improve a bit in midfield and start to create more pressure on the Kerala Blasters defence. 

However, East Bengal could not really penetrate and score that opener, with the talismanic Bright Enobakhare also struggling to get going. They were forced to rely on Neville's late intervention to snatch a point and extend their unbeaten run to six games. It has been a month since Fowler's side tasted defeat and given the kind of start they had, the team has done really well to reach this point. 

However, the squad depth will be put to test in the coming days as they are scheduled to play four matches in 14 days, starting from their encounter against Chennaiyin on Monday. 

The Kerala Blasters defence has been a subject of criticism right from the beginning of the season, but against East Bengal, they looked sturdy. They managed to keep Bright Enobakhare silent for the majority of the match which some of the most reputed defences in the league couldn't in the past few matches.

Kerala Blasters played a style of football which is generally not associated with their Spanish coach Kibu Vicuna who likes to play possession-based football and playing from the back style. Blasters played long balls more often than not and concentrated heavily on solidifying their defence instead of going all out in attack.

In the end, it was a fair result for both sides as neither team deserved to win on the night. There weren't enough goal scoring chances on either side and a draw should make both the outfits happy.

Wolves and Mexico star Raul Jimenez says that his career turned around when he realized that scoring goals was not the most important part of being a striker.

Jimenez originally rose to prominence with Club America, starring with the Liga MX giants before making the move to Europe to join Atletico Madrid.

He struggled to adjust in Spain, scoring just one goal in 21 appearances before heading to Benfica.

It was at the Portuguese club that he rediscovered his form, firing 31 goals in 120 games and catching the eye of Wolves in the process.

Having emerged as one of the Premier League's best goalscorers in recent years, Jimenez credits a lesson learned during those low moments with helping him truly discover his role on the field.

"One day I realized that the most important thing was not scoring goals," Jimenez told Goal. "I learned that the most valuable thing was playing as a team."

Jimenez also reflected on a bit of advice from his mother, Martha Rodriguez, which helped him emerge from those Atletico Madrid struggles.

“It's something my mom taught me," he said. "Despite making a mistake or failing on occasion, you always have to know that another opportunity will come later. Being good off the field also makes you feel good on the field.

"Now I have a very solid life off the field with my daughter and girlfriend, and that fills me with pride: knowing that they are out there supporting me so that I can continue to give my best."

Jimenez's father, Raul Jimenez Vega, has also been a driving figure in his son's career, with the elder Jimenez saying that his son gravitated towards the game very quickly.

"At six months, he was crawling instead of using his toys like every child of that time," he said while revealing a photo of his son in a Jorge Campos shirt. "I purposely passed him a ball and he left everything. He grabbed it and from there it was a non-stop with football. 

"I took him to my games and he enjoyed it. One day he said: 'Dad, I want to be a footballer'."

Jimenez is currently sidelined as he steps up his recovery from surgery on a fractured skull.

The Mexican star suffered the injury during Wolves' 2-1 victory over Arsenal at Emirates Stadium on November 29. and Jimenez has vowed to be "back soon" from the horrific head injury.

Jimenez has fired 48 goals in 110 appearances for Wolves, including four in 11 games in all competitions before his injury.