Looking for Soccer News?

Kenyans have taken to social media to hail the latest achievement by striker Jesse Were after he scored four goals for Zesco United on Sunday.

The towering Harambee Star capped the 2020-21 season with four goals as the Timu Ya Ziko hammered Buildcon FC 7-2 in a Zambian top-tier match at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium.

Timu ya Ziko scored the remaining three goals through Samson Mkandawire, John Chishimba, and Tafadzwa Rusike while the visitors got their two goals courtesy of Brian Mwila, who scored a brace.

It took the newly crowned champions just two minutes to take the lead. Team Kopala conceded a penalty in the second minute and the towering Kenyan rose for the occasion to give his team the lead.

The 32-year-old scored his second in the 13th minute before completing his hat-trick in the 23rd minute. Mwila reduced the deficit in the 37th minute to ensure the half-time result was 3-1 in favour of the champions.

Were needed a minute after the pause to score his fourth of the game after a slow start by the visitors.

What caught the eyes of many in the fixture is the goals scored by Were, who finished the season as the team’s top scorer with 10 goals, and also managed to reach 104 goals for the team since he joined them from FKF Premier League side Tusker four seasons ago.

Several Kenyans have called on Harambee Stars coach Jacob ‘Ghost’ Mulee to include the player in the national team squad for upcoming matches while others compared him to Barcelona forward Lionel Messi, who always shines for the club but aren't as prolific for the Argentina national team.

Below is how Kenyans reacted to Were’s display as per the post on Goal Africa Facebook page.

K'Ochaka Qevin: Jesse is the Messi of Kenya...good at the club but questionable at the country.

Ben Ben: Goal machine.Good work by this man. His record at Zesco will stay for so many years.

Frank Khaemba: King Jesse never fails to leave up to the occasion.

Rafael Muendo: The big question always arise...why haven't Kenya utilized this guy.

Marcello Omuttaha: Both Mwendwa And Mulee will never see that.

Bethwel MC Obondo: Europe material.

Kungu Domnic Wuod Awasi: And still not in the Kenyan national team. Wonders of Kenya.

Christøpher Jøhn: Manchester United should sign him, they don't have a striker.

Blessed Sam: Corrupt Kenyan coaches can't notice such talents.

Kaladi Mc Nkandu: The king is never honored in his home land . You don't know the beast you ignore his name #Were means #goal in Zambia.

Mark Maina: Is Nick Mwendwa aware he is a Kenyan?

Gareth Southgate has been promised a new contract as England manager, but the Three Lions boss considers that debate "pointless" as he takes aim at the quarter-finals of Euro 2020.

The 50-year-old has been England coach since succeeding Sam Allardyce on an initial interim basis in September 2016.

Runs to the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup and UEFA Nations League have been overseen, but Souithgate is aware he remains one bad result from the chop.

What has been said?

Football Association chief executive Mark Bullingham has said a new deal to 2024 will be handed to Southgate regardless of how England fare in their crunch clash with Germany on Tuesday, but those words are being taken with a pinch of salt.

Southgate said: "I always think it's pointless talking about contract situations until you get to the end of tournaments and you see where everything sits, you have a much better picture of everything, how everybody feels about it.

"I really appreciate the backing and the support and I think if he hadn't done that it would have caused a whirlwind of other stories, so I'm thankful for that and I'm just realistic and focused on the now and doing as well as we can in this tournament."

Are England ready to deliver?

Southgate faced questions of his tactical approach as the Three Lions failed to sparkle during the group stage.

They did, however, collect seven points and three clean sheets en route to the last-16 and are ready to rekindle rivalries with old adversaries Germany.

History is not on their side when it comes to facing  Germany at major competitions, with penalty heartache all too familiar, but England are prepared to go the distance again.

Southgate, who missed a spot-kick against Germany at Euro 96, has said of his team's preparations: "We always practice penalties. We did for the World Cup, we did for the Nations League and obviously we won those two shootouts [against Colombia and Switzerland] so we'll be thoroughly well prepared in the big tournaments and the big matches."

Further reading

France are under "positive pressure" at Euro 2020 according to Robert Pires, who is hoping his country set up a quarter-final clash against Spain.

Didier Deschamps' men will advance to the last eight of the tournament if they can see off Switzerland at Arena Nationala in Bucharest on Monday night.

France are being tipped to go one better than their final appearance in 2016, with Pires confident that they can handle the weight of expectations but wary of the quality opponents standing in their way.

What's been said?

"I think it is positive pressure," the Bleus legend told Goal. "France are in the favourite position but there are many teams with good ability. We saw the Italian team.

"Many people are criticising Spain and I think that they have a good level and quality."

France are currently on a collision course with Spain, who must get past Croatia to reach the quarter-finals, and Pires would like to see the heavyweight tie materialise, having been part of the team that knocked La Roja out before winning the trophy in 2000.

"It would mean that both teams are doing well," the former Arsenal star added. "They are going to fight for the final and for the cup. I don't know what will happen but hopefully there will be [a France v Spain match].

"Spain has very good players for me and every time that we play with Spain we know that it is very complicated. In Euro 2000 it was very difficult because on the field there was very good quality, and hopefully we will meet with Spain".

How have France performed at the Euros so far?

France opened their latest European Championship campaign with a 1-0 victory against Germany as an early Mats Hummels own goal proved to be the difference between the two sides.

Deschamps' men never really got out of second gear against the Germans, and were even more underwhelming in their second Group F fixture against Hungary, who held the world champions to a 1-1 draw in front of a feverous home crowd at Puskas Stadium.

However, Les Bleus produced a much-improved display to earn a 2-2 against Portugal, with Karim Benzema grabbing a brace, and ultimately went through as group winners.

Further reading 

Stefan Effenberg has claimed that England are Germany's "easiest opponent so far" at Euro 2020.

Germany progressed to the round of 16 by finishing second in Group F, one point behind world champions France, and are now looking forward to a meeting with arch-rivals England at Wembley.

Joachim Low's side impressed in a narrow defeat to France and 4-2 victory over holders Portugal before scraping a draw against Hungary, with Effenberg now convinced that they can come through what he perceives to be a more straightforward test against the Three Lions.

What's been said?

"I think England will be our easiest opponents so far," the former Germany midfielder told Sport1 .

"In the group, we had world champions France, European champions Portugal and Hungary as incredibly difficult opponents. 

"We survived it."

How have England performed so far?

England opened their Group D campaign with a 1-0 win over Croatia thanks to a Raheem Sterling strike, avenging their heart-breaking loss in the 2018 World Cup semi-finals in the process.

Gareth Southgate's side were far less convincing in their second fixture against Scotland, though, with their home nation foes earning a credible 0-0 draw at Wembley which saw the Three Lions register just one shot on target.

England were then faced with the Czech Republic, and recorded a third successive clean sheet in another 1-0 victory, with Sterling doubling his account for the tournament.

"The English have not yet really had an impact on the tournament and the attack around Harry Kane - which distinguishes them - has not appeared at all," Effenberg added on the Three Lions' performances.

"So, I'm sure we will win the game. The pressure is on the English. You play at home. Even if it's a young team, they are expected to win the title."

Germany's record against England at major tournaments

Germany and England have locked horns 11 times in major tournament competition, with the former coming out on top in seven of those encounters.

The most recent meeting between the two sides on a competitive stage came at the 2010 World Cup, and Germany triumphed 4-1 to progress to the quarter-finals at the expense of Fabio Capello's team.

Further reading

Barcelona legend Andres Iniesta has claimed that Kylian Mbappe "would fit better" at Camp Nou than Erling Haaland, with Paris Saint-German and Borussia Dortmund strikers seeing big-money moves mooted.

Funds are in short supply for the Liga giants during the current transfer window, but that is doing little to curb speculation regarding supposed targets.

World Cup winner Mbappe, who is yet to sign a new contract at Parc des Princes, has been linked with leading sides in Spain for some time, while prolific Norwegian frontman Haaland has burst onto a global stage at 20 years of age.

What has been said?

Quizzed on which of the promising frontmen he would most like to see in Catalunya, ex-Barca star Iniesta has told El Transistor: "Perhaps because of his characteristics Mbappe would fit better at Barca than Haaland.

"They are two very good players who are on everyone’s lips, we will see if they continue in their teams and do not change this summer."

Any other business?

Barca have little room in their squad at present for more forward-thinking talent.

Lionel Messi is expected to sign a new contract at some stage, with the Argentine currently running down his deal, while French stars Antoine Griezmann and Ousmane Dembele have seen regular game time.

They have been joined this summer by free agents Sergio Aguero and Memphis Depay, and there are a number of promising playmakers on Ronald Koeman's books as well.

Big things are expected of Ansu Fati once he returns to full fitness, while Iniesta is a big fan of 18-year-old Spain international Pedri - who has been catching the eye at Euro 2020.

He added: "The important thing about Pedri is that he is Pedri.

"He is a player that I like a lot, he is a kid who has to continue growing and learning. 

"When I see him play, I see a player who has a good time on the field. He’s a very focused guy."

Further reading

South African-based goalkeeper Washington Arubi has been named in a strong 25-man Zimbabwe squad for the 2021 Cosafa Cup.

The veteran stopper, who recently helped Tshakhuma Tsha Madzivhandila (renamed Marumo Gallants) to the Nedbank Cup title this past season, headlines the squad picked by coach Zdravko Logarusic ahead of the tournament set for July 6 to 18 at Nelson Mandela Bay.

Other players making the squad and ply their trade in South Africa include strikers Knox Mutizwa (Lamontville Golden Arrows) and Evans Rusike (Unattached), while midfielder Jonah Fabisch, who plays for German second-tier side Hamburg, has also been selected.

Ovidy Karuru, who scored six goals in the 2017 Cosafa Cup, the most ever in a single tournament, will get to add to his tally while Simba SC striker Perfect Chikwende has also earned a call-up despite warming the bench at the Tanzanian giants.

In an earlier interview after the draw was made, Logarusic said he will use some of the players who did not feature in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches.

“We are going to use players which we didn’t see much during the Afcon qualification,” Logarusic told Zimbabwe FA's social media pages.

“We will give chances to some players which are showing potential to become future stars and those who didn’t get many minutes during qualification for Afcon. It’s their chance to prove themselves.

“We are not going with the strongest squad; we didn’t call 14 or 15 players top players who are regulars for the national team. We are not talking about whether we win or not.

“We are using this tournament to try to make our squad stronger for World Cup qualification and Afcon tournament.”

Six-time winners Zimbabwe are pooled in Group C alongside Senegal, Mozambique, and Namibia and they will open their campaign for the title with a clash against Mozambique on July 8.

Zimbabwe squad

Goalkeepers: Washington Arubi (Marumo Gallants), Nelson Chadya (Ngezi Platinum Stars), and Martin Mapisa (Zamora CF).

Defenders: MacClive Phiri (Sekhukhune United), Kelvin Moyo (Nkana FC), Carlos Mavhurume (CAPS United), Andrew Mbeba (Highlanders), Lennox Muchero (Yadah Stars), Godknows Murwira (Dynamos), Qadr Amini (Ngezi Platinum Stars), Malvin Mkolo (Bulawayo Chiefs) and Jimmy Dzingai (Nkana FC).

Midfielders: Blessing Sarupinda (CAPS United), Perfect Chikwende (Simba SC), Tatenda Tavengwa (Harare City), Shadreck Nyahwa (Dynamos), Brian Banda (FC Platinum), King Nadolo (Dynamos), Nyasha Dube (Little Rock RangerJonah Fabisch (Hamburger SV), Ovidy Karuru (Black Leopards) and Richard Hachiro (CAPS United),

Strikers: Farau Matare (Bulawayo Chiefs), Knox Mutizwa (Lamontville Golden Arrows), and Evans Rusike (Unattached).

Hasan Salihamidzic has warned Leroy Sane that his "year of stabilisation is over" and he expects the Bayern Munich star to improve significantly next season.

Sane sealed a €60 million (£51m/$72m) move to Bayern from Manchester City in July 2020, bringing to an end one of the longest-running transfer sagas in recent memory.

The German winger failed to justify such a high fee in his first year at Allianz Arena, having needed extra time to get back to full fitness following surgery on a cruciate knee ligament injury.

What has been said?

Bayern sporting director Salihamidzic was not surprised Sane struggled for consistency after so long away from the pitch, but has now challenged him to nail down a regular spot in the team under incoming head coach Julian Nagelsmann.

"Leroy had a year off with injury," the Allianz Arena chief told Kicker. "In his first season with us he showed some good games, now we expect him to be a key player and support the team.

"The year of stabilization is over. I have big confidence in him, even though he has a different character than other players. A year of truth is ahead of him, and he will get all the support from all of us."

Sane's record at Bayern

Sane played in 44 games in all competitions in his debut season at Bayern, helping them clinch a ninth consecutive Bundesliga title.

The 25-year-old also contributed 10 goals and 12 assists, but found himself in and out of the team amid strong competition for places out wide alongside Kingsley Coman and Serge Gnabry.

How has Sane performed at Euro 2020?

Sane's underwhelming form has carried over into Germany's European Championship campaign, with his latest outing coming in the 2-2 draw with Hungary.

The former City star made his first start of the tournament in the decisive Group F fixture after substitute appearances against France and Portugal, replacing the injured Thomas Muller, but squandered a number of clear openings in the final third.

Joachim Low is now under pressure to drop Sane for his team's last 16 clash with England as they bid to set up a quarter-final tie against either Sweden or Ukraine.

Further reading

Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Willard Katsande has explained how the club has learnt from its previous failures in the Caf Champions League.

Prior to this season's remarkable African campaign, the Glamour Boys had never even made it past the opening group phase of the continent's most prestigious club competition.

Their run all the way to the final is even more impressive when considering how the team has struggled in the domestic league. They have also had to battle with a Fifa transfer ban, and had the season disrupted further when head coach Gavin Hunt was fired at the end of May.

As such, long-serving midfielder Willard Katsande is pleased to have been able to prove the doubters wrong, and he believes this season's Caf success has been earned over the years.

“People said we are a lower-league team and said we haven't played a match in a long time," Katsande was quoted saying by IOL.

"In the past, we went out in the early rounds of the Champions League. We used the experience because we kept on learning and this season was the turning point in terms of our Champions League fortunes,” added the 35-year-old Zimbabwean.

Amakhosi have certainly been the surprise package in the latter stages of the competition, and booked their spot in the final with a 4-3 aggregate win over Simba SC in the quarter-finals, before edging out 2017 Champions League winners Wydad Casablanca in the semis.

“Nobody gave us a chance in the group stages. People had mixed feelings about us and we felt the pain of our supporters after losing 4-0 to Wydad in the group stages. We were not doing well domestically and gave our supporters a bad impression. We kept going until the results came,” added Katsande.

The Soweto outfit will be heavy underdogs in the final against Al Ahly in Casablanca on July 17 – Pitso Mosimane’s side are defending champions and are chasing a tenth continental crown.

Thiago Silva has revealed why he is known as 'The Monster', with the Chelsea defender claiming to have been given that nickname in his younger years at Fluminense.

The Brazil international has certainly lived up to that moniker down the years, with the commanding centre-half still going strong at the age of 36.

He has committed to a new one-year contract at Stamford Bridge and, having helped to deliver Champions League glory in 2021, is determined to prove that he can remain a colossus at the heart of Thomas Tuchel's defensive unit.

What has been said?

Silva told the club's official website on how he became 'O Monstro': "Firstly, it was because of the good performances I’d put in, and due to the confidence that not only I, but all of the defence was giving to our goalkeeper.

"Actually, it was not the fans who came up with that nickname, it was the goalkeeper, Fernando Henrique [dos Anjos].

"He was the one who came up with that nickname after a move from the opposition in which I made a good recovery and was able to prevent them from scoring.

"Then, he looked at me and said ‘Nice one, Monster!’ Then the fans heard that through the microphones behind the goal and started calling me Monstro."

The bigger picture

Silva made his name in Europe after leaving Fluminense for AC Milan in 2009, with three years at San Siro followed by eight at Paris Saint-Germain.

Trophies have been collected in Italy, France and England, while 95 caps have been picked up with Brazil by a veteran performer currently on Copa America duty.

Silva is showing no sign of slowing down, with an ambitious character having spent his entire career learning from those around him so that he can compete at the peak of his powers.

He added on his role for club and country: "Forwards have less responsibility. They can do things using intuition. At the back, things are a bit more serious, in terms of positioning.

"I think that the 22-year-old Thiago was a guy who was willing to learn. Even though he had a good season with Fluminense, he still had a lot to learn.

"And the best thing is that I was prepared to learn, that’s what I consider the best thing. There’s no use in knowing that you need to learn if you lack the patience and the comprehension of things, because that doesn’t work."

Further reading

Former Napoli striker Stefan Schwoch believes striker Simy Nwankwo would do wonders for Serie B side Monza if he signs for them this window.

The lanky Nigeria striker has been linked with a possible move to Monza in the summer window, where he would reunite with his former coach at Crotone, Giovanni Stroppa if the deal happens.

According to Calciomercato, Monza have started negotiating with Crotone for Simy's signing, after he was in spectacular form for Crotone in the recently concluded 2020-21 season, scoring 20 goals and providing three assists.

His efforts were, however, not enough to help the Red and Blue retain their Serie A status as they were relegated from the elite division.

According to Schwoch, Simy has been performing at a high level due to the coaching he received from Stroppa and he will be even a better player if he links up with the coach at Monza.

“If Stroppa has Simy, Monza will be in Serie A. He has done very well and has improved since he was in Italy,” Schwoch told Tuttomercatoweb as quoted by allnigeriasoccer.

“Many of these improvements are also due to the work of Stroppa, who knows him well. When he arrived he was also very awkward. in the technical bases, over time he has become an excellent number nine.”

Monza missed out on promotion to Serie A last season but are looking to have another crack next season, and have identified Simy as one of the players that could help them in their mission.

Simy’s 20 goals helped him to become the first African player to reach that mark in Italy's top flight since Samuel Eto’o scored 21 for Inter Milan in the 2010/2011 season.

The former Gil Vicente forward already has experience in Italy’s second division with Crotone. Simy spent two seasons with Crotone in Serie B, scoring 20 goals in the 2019/2020 campaign to help them secure promotion to the top-flight.

Simy, who has one year left on his current contract, has also been linked with Torino, Lazio, and Fiorentina among other teams.

Monza are owned by former Milan president Silvio Berlusconi and recently appointed former Crotone coach Stroppa.

England have "some of the best players in the world", according to Kai Havertz, who is wary of the threat they will pose as Germany prepare to clash with their age-old rivals.

Germany will travel to Wembley to take on England in a huge last-16 tie on Tuesday, having earned their place in the European Championship knockout stages by finishing second in Group F behind world champions France.

The Three Lions are being billed as favourites after winning Group D without conceding a single goal, and Havertz says Germany will have to be at their very best to emerge victorious, having seen the quality of English players up close in his first season at Chelsea.

What's been said?

"It's a special game for me. I know some players, I've lived in London for a year, but generally, I approach the game like any other," Havertz told a pre-match press conference.

"It's going to be a big game for us and we're going to do everything we can to come out on top. They're loaded with some of the best players in the world.

"Of course they still have some room for improvement, but offensively they have great individual quality. On the other hand, I think it will be a duel of equals.

"We are all very excited and focused on the game."

Pressed on whether England have the edge due to the extensive Premier League experience within their ranks, the attacker responded: "It's not an advantage.

"We have many players in the squad who have already played big games. A few players can assess the level and the toughness of the opponent."

Havertz's praise for Muller

Havertz went on to single out Thomas Muller's influence in the Germany squad, with the Bayern Munich forward set to return to action against England after sitting out his country's final group game against Hungary through injury.

"He thinks like a player-coach. He is the third co-coach we have," said the 22-year-old. "He is super funny, but on the pitch, he is very professional.

"He pulls a lot of players along and is very important in communication on the pitch. He's definitely taking us forward."

Germany's potential route to the final

The winners of the tie between Germany and England will be rewarded with a meeting against either Sweden or Ukraine in the quarter-finals.

If Joachim Low's side can make it through to the last four they could then face either the Czech Republic or Denmark, both of whom have been surprise packages in the tournament so far.

Further reading

Gareth Southgate has been warned by England predecessor Glenn Hoddle that he faces becoming a "failure" unless the Three Lions make their way past "weaker" Germany at Euro 2020.

The European Championship showdown between two old adversaries is set to take place at Wembley on Tuesday.

Both teams have their sights set on the quarter-finals, but Hoddle says Southgate's men need to make the most of being "favourites" in a side of the draw that is starting to open up.

What has been said?

Hoddle, who took charge of England at the 1998 World Cup, told Betfair: "I think it would be a failure if we don't beat Germany. The way this German side have qualified, the way they've just sneaked through, they're changing the guard with a new manager coming and it's a good time to play them.

"We're playing at Wembley. We can't ask for much more. We're slightly favourites going into this game - we haven't conceded a goal and they conceded two against Hungary. Yes, they came back and they've got that German spirit. We've got to be shading it as favourites at this moment in time."

He added: "I don't think it's as good as the German teams that we've seen of yesteryear, although there's been spells where they've turned it on and they came back well against Hungary.

"They've definitely got a little weakness in them - they haven't quite got that arrogance, that flow, that belief yet, but they did come back like typical Germans.

"I'm adamant that there's more to come from England. We're going to grow in the tournament and looking at the draw, this is like a semi-final."

Any other business?

England netted just two goals in the group stage, with both of those efforts recorded by Raheem Sterling, and questions have been asked of whether Harry Kane remains the right man to lead the line.

Tottenham legend Hoddle retains faith in the Spurs star to deliver despite looking a little "leggy" as a relentless schedule and speculation regarding his future starts to take its toll.

"[Kane] has got to play like a No 9 on Tuesday," Hoddle said.

"He's got to play in the box, be the link man, be the target man, make sure he keeps the moves flowing, the pattern of play flowing, but get in the box, and of course he's got to get some service. I think there'll be a little bit more space for Harry.

"If he gets up against Hummels, he isn't the paciest. Germany play quite a high line and Neuer gets away with a few things. There's a bit of space in behind and I think Harry's better off, for this game, off the shoulder and being the last man. I think he'll start coming up trumps.

"He has looked leggy and he won't be happy with how he's been playing, but this is a typical game where he's ready to rock and roll."

Further reading

In terms of stature, Kaizer Chiefs are higher ranked than his former club Mamelodi Sundowns, says Al Ahly coach Pitso Mosimane.

In fact, one of Mosimane’s last major acts before leaving Sundowns for Egyptian giants Al Ahly in the later part of last year was to break Chiefs fans’ hearts by helping the Brazilians to pip Amakhosi to the league title on the final day of the 2019/20 season.

Now Mosimane will once more be plotting the Glamour Boys’ downfall as he gets set to lead the Red Devils out for the Caf Champions League final against Chiefs on July 17, at the Mohamed V Stadium in Casablanca, Morocco.

And in the build-up to the big game, the Ahly coach is showing plenty of respect to the Soweto giants.

“Kaizer Chiefs is one of the biggest teams in South Africa in terms of popularity and the club is bigger than Sundowns,” said Mosimane, as quoted by the Daily Sun.

“They have a bigger support base than Sundowns. They are a good team, and you just have to respect them.”

It’s been a season of contrasts for Chiefs.

Going into the final weeks of the domestic campaign, they were in danger of getting sucked into the relegation fight, before managing to win their last two matches, which resulted in a top-eight finish in the league.

And while their African campaign has for the most part been based on a tight defence, they have at times also leaked goals – for example losing 4-0 to Wydad Casablanca in the group stage, or going down 3-0 to Simba SC in a quarter-final second leg clash.

“They scored four goals against Simba but conceded three goals. It is not easy to describe them," Mosimane admitted.

“They finished eighth on the log but they are in the Champions League final. You have to pay attention to them. They are a very strong team in terms of organisation, they don’t give away goals easily.

“They have not conceded a goal in their stadium. They don’t score a lot but they can defeat you. We have to respect them.”

Kakamega Homeboyz chairman Cleophas Shimanyula has challenged the Football Kenya Federation to end the 2020-21 season on June 30 if the deadline to crown the winner cannot be extended.

The FKF had announced on May 17 the team on top of the table by the end of June 30 will be handed the ticket to represent the country in the Caf Champions League.

The directive was issued after Caf had issued a deadline to all affiliated federations to submit the names of their representatives by June 30.

However, five days ago, the African body moved to extend the deadline of submitting teams and registration of players for the lucrative competition to August 15, but the FKF has maintained nothing will change as the flagbearer will be announced at the end of June 30 as earlier planned.

Shimanyula has stated there is no need to continue with the top-flight after June 30 if the federation cannot respect Caf's decision to extend the deadline to August 15.

What has been said?

“If FKF has ignored Caf directive which extended the registration deadline to August 15 and has vowed to declare the flag bearer on June 30, then what is the essence of playing the season to the end, what will the teams be competing for? Shimanyula posed a question to Goal.

“We don’t have to finish the season [if FKF are not willing to follow the directive from Caf], all we need to do now is to conclude the league on June 30 and ask clubs to start preparing for the new season, they should give us dates to start the new campaign.

“It is not fair to declare a team on June 30 whereas Caf has given federations more time, teams should be allowed to play until the date set by Caf. It is Caf who wanted names of representatives from all affiliated countries and they have pushed the deadline to August 15, so why is FKF in a hurry to send the name?

“If you look at the table, every team in top 10 has a chance to be on top of the table by August 15, and that is why we want more time to fight for the slot, any team can win it, I don’t see the essence of doing it on June 30, and Caf have given a clear directive, FKF should respect the directive from Caf and extend the same.”

What did Mwendwa say?

On Sunday, FKF president Nick Mwendwa told Goal nothing will change and that the team at the top of the table by June 30 will earn the ticket to represent the country.

“Nothing will change, the date still remains June 30 and whoever will be at the top by then, will automatically get the ticket to the Champions League for next season,” Mwendwa told Goal.

What did Caf say about the deadline?

Five days ago, the African body, who had initially requested all federations on the continent to submit teams that would represent the country in the Champions League by June 30, confirmed they had extended the deadline to August 15.

In a statement issued on June 22, the African governing body also announced the interclub season kick-off, including the information relating to the list of countries that will be allowed to enter two clubs in both Caf competitions.

“The 2021/22 season will kick off on September 10, 2021, with the first round of the preliminaries,” read part of the Caf statement. “The registration of players on the Caf CMS has been extended to August 15, 2021.”

Tusker are leading the 18-team table with 44 points from 21 matches, while KCB are second on 43 points from 21 matches, AFC Leopards third on 40 points while reigning champions Gor Mahia are fourth on 38 points from 21 matches.

With the Brewers, who last played at the continental stage in 2016 travelling to face Ulinzi Stars in Nakuru on Wednesday, a win for the Brewers will surely cement their place at the summit and a return to continental football.

Established in 1970, Kaizer Chiefs are the most popular football club and among the biggest sports brands in South Africa.

The club was formed following a dispute within one of the country's most historical clubs, Orlando Pirates, which led to the expulsion of team manager Ewert Nene and three players, Thomas ‘Zero’Johnson, Ratha Mogoatlheng, Edward ‘Msomi’ Khoza.

Johnson, Mogoatlheng and Khoza had travelled to South Africa’s neighbouring country, Botswana, where they played football without permission from the Pirates management in 1969. 

The trio had received an invitation to play for one of the biggest clubs in Botswana, Gaborone United in exhibition games, and their dismissal from Pirates led to the formation of a club that went on to become a powerhouse in South African football.

Upon his return from the United States of America, where he turned out for Atlanta Chiefs, former Pirates forward Kaizer Motaung attempted to resolve the impasse at a club he had begun his career as a 16-year-old.

However, Motaung's best efforts proved unsuccessful and he decided to work with his close friends and former Pirates officials Nene, Gilbert Sekgabi, China Ngema, and Clarence Mlokoti to form a new club in the late 1969s. 

Founding Father 

The club was named Kaizer XI after Motaung, who had brought about the glamour and international experience from the USA where he had been voted 1969 North American Soccer League (NASL) Rookie of the Year.

The newly established team played numerous friendlies having recruited players such as Joseph Setlhodi, Pule Ntsoelengoe, Jackie Masike, Vincent Julius, and Eliakim Khumalo (Doctor Khumalo's father).

On 7 January 1970, Motaung officially established the club by combining his own first name with his club, Atlanta Chiefs to create the name of Kaizer Chiefs at his childhood home in Phefeni‚ Orlando West in South Africa's biggest township, Soweto.

Chiefs were given the nickname, the Phefeni Glamour Boys by the club's supporters because Motaung ensured that his players dressed well to fit in with the professional image of the club.

Furthermore, the Phefeni Glamour Boys adopted the colours black and gold, and badge inspired by those of the Atlanta Chiefs where Motaung spent four successful years as one of the team's most influential players.

With their badge featuring a native American chief, the Soweto outfit is also nicknamed Amakhosi, which means 'Lords' or 'Chiefs' in isiZulu, which is the most widely spoken language in South Africa.

Nicknamed Chincha Guluva during his playing days as an immensely talented left-footed player, Motaung turned down a $1 million (R14 million as per the exchange rate in 2021) offer to realise his dream of owning a football club.

"In 1969, he turned down $1 million to remain in the States to realise his dream of forming his own club. He started Kaizer’s XI and they played their first game on 20 September 1969," read a statement on Chiefs' official website.

Known for his great administrative prowess and business acumen, Motaung has developed Amakhosi into South Africa's most marketable football club and it is among the wealthiest teams in the country.

World-class facilities 

Amakhosi's headquarters are at the Kaizer Chiefs Village in Naturena, south of South Africa's largest city, Johannesburg and they include a complex of playing fields, offices, training facilities, a retail store, and a world-class gym.

Tim Sukazi, the chairman of PSL club TS Galaxy, has stated that Chiefs' value is R1 billion ($70,6 million) when speaking to the South African Football Journalists' Association in September 2020.

“There’s no chance you could buy Kaizer Chiefs for less than R1 billion. You must look at what’s there at the club. They have got a Vodacom sponsorship and maybe they spend R75 million [$5 million] or R80 million [$5,6 milion], alone," Sukazi said.

"Then there’s Toyota and all the rest [of the sponsors]. “It’s a well-decorated club from a sponsorship perspective, which has got monetary value in it. Before you wake up, their sponsorships would be in the region of R150 million [$10,6 million] or thereabout. 

“And then there are other things like their player values, goodwill, it’s got a rich history and that will count in the pricing model.”

Amakhosi are the most decorated club in South African football having won 76 major trophies including 12 league titles, four of which were won in the PSL era, and the 2001 Caf African Cup Winners' Cup. 

The success on the pitch has helped the Glamour Boys attract millions of new fans over the years and they are the most supported football team in sub-Saharan Africa with an estimated support base of over 16 million supporters.

While the Soweto Derby match featuring the Chiefs and their arch-rivals Pirates, is one of the biggest, most passionately supported football derbies in the world and their encounters always attract a huge fanbase.

Furthermore, Amakhosi are also an internationally recognized brand with an award-winning English music group, Kaiser Chiefs having been named after the Soweto giants - the former club of long-serving former Leeds United captain Lucas Radebe.

Chiefs are definitely a trendsetter in South African football, some 51 years after the club's formation. 

Itumeleng Khune can once again prove that he is Africa’s best goalkeeper, but just needs support from Kaizer Chiefs as he closes in on the end of his contract, according to ex-Orlando Pirates stopper Fatau Dauda.

Khune was again absent on Saturday, with Nigeria’s Daniel Akpeyi preferred ahead of him in the absence of Bruce Bvuma.

It has been interpreted as yet another signal that Khune’s days at Chiefs are numbered, with the legendary stopper’s contract set to expire at the end of June.

According to his former rival at Pirates—ex-Ghana No. 1 Fatau Dauda—however, It’s too soon for Amakhosi to turn their back on their long-term servant.

“I think he’s still the number one in Africa,” Dauda told Goal . “He’s played for Kaizer Chiefs since he was full time, and he’s still playing, but they need to support him to play.

“He still has football in him,” he added. “Goalkeepers, the more we play, the more we get better, and he’s a strong guy, he won’t listen to the criticism.

“He’s doing what he wants to do, what he loves to do, and I wish him well with his team,” Dauda continued. “He can keep doing it, and will make the fans happy.”

Akpeyi responded to the show of faith from Chiefs to deliver an outstanding display against Wydad as progression to the Caf Champions League final was secured—further suggesting that the Glamour Boys are well set between the sticks moving forward.

For Dauda, however, the 34-year-old is too good to discard when he still has so much to offer, while he’s unlikely to be fazed by the criticism that has accompanied a difficult season.

“Khune—you can take it from me, he’s a good goalkeeper,” Dauda continued. “On the continent, he’s a very good goalkeeper.

“I’ve been monitoring how people are criticising him, but he’s still stayed strong, he’s still playing.

“When I was in South Africa, I met him a lot,” he continued. “He has character and he’s always a team player.”

One factor that may be working in Spiderkid’s favour is the return of Stuart Baxter, who enjoyed such success alongside the Bafana stopper during the pair’s time together at Chiefs.

For Dauda, it’s not too late for an old dog to learn new tricks, and he believes that Khune can adapt to Chiefs’ requirements moving forward, without letting age affect his quality.

“As a player, if you want to do well, you have to learn,” the Legon Cities man concluded. “Even if you are playing well, you have to learn from others, and then you get better.

“You know how Khune is on his preparation, he’s the best in Africa.”

Bolivia and Argentina are set to meet in the last Group A match of the Copa America 2021 at the Arena Pantanal on Tuesday.

Cesar Farias' side have lost all three games in the Copa America so far and are out of contention to progress into the knockout stages.

Argentina, who lead Group B with seven points from three games, picked their second consecutive win in the tournament as they beat Paraguay 1-0 last Tuesday. The result will determine their final standing in the group as Paraguay and Uruguay are also playing simultaneously.

Here's how to watch Bolivia vs Argentina in India.

Contents

What time does Bolivia vs Argentina start?

Return to top

How to watch Bolivia vs Argentina on TV & live stream in India

In India, the Copa America 2021 will be broadcast live on the Sony Pictures Sports Network (SPSN). It will be livestreamed on the SonyLIV app.

Commentary will also be available in vernacular languages across India.

Return to top

Bolivia vs Argentina: Team news & key stats

Bolivia will miss defender Oscar Ribera on account of an injury. Skipper and all-time highest goalscorer Marcelo Moreno and Joselito Vaca were back as substitutes in the last match after missing the opening two games after testing positive for Covid-19 and are expected to start against Argentina. Striker Jaume Cuéllar, who plies his trade in Italy, is also available for selection after serving his suspension.

Meanwhile, Lionel Scaloni might look to test some of the players ahead of the knockouts as Exequiel Palacios, Nicolas Gonzalez and Giovani Lo Celso are doubtful for the clash It will be interesting to see if Scaloni decides to bench Lionel Messi to afford the Barcelona star some rest.

Key stats:

Return to top

Further reading: 

Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT) have a chance to put some daylight between them and their opponents on the day when they meet Pohang Steelers in the third fixture for both sides in this AFC Champions League (ACL) Group G match as both teams goes into this game separated only by goal difference.

Advantage must be taken over the club that holds the joint-most ACL title wins, who must still be reeling from the 3-0 defeat suffered at the hands of Nagoya Grampus in the previous game and who will be without a key defender serving a one-match suspension.

The 1-0 win over Ratchaburi puts JDT in a solid position heading in the completion of the first round of group matches and with Bergson, Leandro Velazquez and Arif Aiman all in good form heading into this match, three points against a tough Pohang side must be the target.

Match details

TV channel and Live Streaming

Squad news

Having made some attacking changes for the Ratchaburi game, Benjamin Mora is likely to adopt a more cautious approach against the Koreans, with the possibility of Safiq Rahim moving back to the bench and Afiq Fazail coming in to shore up the midfield and offer more protection alongside Natxo Insa.

Kim Gi-dong has picked almost the same line-up in the opening two matches with only two changes despite back-to-back 6pm kickoffs and could be having players not at their best fitness levels particularly due to the fact they had to play the last half an hour against Nagoya with just 10 men. Defender Shin Kwang-hoon will definitely not be available as he sits out due to a red card picked up against the Japanese side.

What the coaches said

Benjamin Mora 

"Motivation is the most important thing in any sport. You need to know what you want and how to get what you want. We are in a very good situation mentally and emotionally because we are very happy to see the team competing in a very good level. We know Pohang are a very good team participating in a very good league in the Korean League. We are expecting the same as before, a tough game against a very tough team.

"Indeed we have created many chances to score in the last game but unfortunately we couldn’t convert most of them. But we are sure that we have the possibility to create them. So we are going to continue in the same vibe and objective, to be a team that wants the ball, a team that wants to generate the possibility. And it’s about improving the finishing and it’s possible because we have the quality in the team."

Kim Gi-dong 

“We had a meeting after the last match (against Nagoya Grampus) to make assessments and even though we lost, we still managed to stick to the game plan. As you know, the red card completely changed the aspects of our performance but the team is now focused and ready to take on the next opponents.

"Of course we have seen their past two games but it’s best to focus on ourselves and our key strengths so that we can get the three points. Tomorrow's (Monday)match is very important and all the players are in tune to have a good game. The team is emotionally in a good condition and we’re emphasising on the positive aspects to prepare for the next match.”

Results thus far

Current standings

Winning the previous game had helped JDT move up into second place which could potentially see them through to the knockout stage of the ACL if they eventually end up among the best three second-place finishers from the five East Zone groups. Currently JDT are fourth in that list but only on goal difference to the three teams above them.

Past meetings v Korean teams

Officially it's only these two matches on record in the competition but there was another which was played and won last year by JDT when they ousted Suwon Bluewings 2-1 in the Sultan Ibrahim Stadium's first big bow in the ACL, but of course the records were expunged after JDT were forced to pull out of the competition when it resumed due to travel restrictions imposed by the Malaysian government.

Switzerland will be aiming to upset the world champions when they take on France at the Arena Nationala in Monday’s Euro 2020 last-16 clash.

Although France secured first place in the group of death, it wasn't the most impressive performance from Didier Deschamps' team. They won 1-0 against Germany, thanks to an own-goal by Mats Hummels, failed to keep a clean-sheet against Hungary and leaked in two more against Portugal.

Switzerland have found the back of the net in 11 of their last 12 outings - scoring 28 times in that period.

Vladimir Petkovic’s men have reached this stage of the competition for just the second time in their history, having taken four points from their three group games against Wales, Italy and Turkey.

Here's how to watch France vs Switzerland in India.

Contents

What time does France vs Switzerland start?

Return to top

How to watch France vs Switzerland on TV & live stream in India

In India, the Euros will be broadcast live on the Sony Pictures Sports Network (SPSN). It will be livestreamed on the SonyLIV app.

Commentary will also be available in vernacular languages across India.

Return to top

Where will France vs Switzerland take place?

Arena Nationala | Bucharest | Romania

Capacity: 55,600 |  reduced to 25% capacity, subject to increase
Games: Group stage & last 16 (four games)
Year built: 2011

Romania's Arena Nationala shareed hosting duties in Group C with the Johan Cruyff Arena and is now set to be the venue for France vs Switzerland in the last 16 at Euro 2020.

The stadium is located in the Romanian capital Bucharest and is home to Steaua Bucuresti as well as the Romania national team.

In 2012 it was the venue for the Europa League final between Atletico Madrid and Athletic Club.

Return to top

France vs Switzerland: Team news & key stats

Lucas Digne has been ruled out after suffering a muscle injury in the draw with Portugal, joining Ousmane Dembele on the sidelines.

Ricardo Rodriguez is likely to retake his place on the left side of the back three, having moved there from left wing-back position in the decisive final group stage victory over Turkey.

Key stats:

Return to top

Further reading: