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When Real Madrid and Tottenham Hotspur faced off in the Champions League group stage in 2017/18, the game included an intriguing African subplot.

Before a ball was kicked, the head-to-head between right-backs Achraf Hakimi and Serge Aurier had got people talking, although perhaps few could have accurately predicted that it would be a meeting between Africa's best right-back and the man who would take that mantle.

Featuring for Los Blancos was a 17-year-old Hakimi, less than a month before his 18th birthday, while Aurier turned out for the visitors. The Moroccan was effectively Africa’s future in that position while the Ivory Coast star represented the present at the time.

Fast forward four years and a whole lot has changed.

Even though the North African didn't ultimately command a first-term berth at Real Madrid, he has gone on to enjoy success at Borussia Dortmund and Internazionale.

The 22-year-old has come on in leaps and bounds since that encounter with Aurier in October 2017 and has surpassed the West African as the continent’s number one.

In truth, it should be noted that both seldom play in the same position these days. Hakimi is deployed at right wing-back while the Ivorian has largely played at right-back.

Both roles are interpreted differently and the upshot of that means attacking stats may always be skewed in the Moroccan’s favour.

The simplest way of giving credence to the ex-Real full-back’s superiority will be considering the varying level of interest in both in the transfer market.

Despite Inter’s precarious financial situation, the turbo-charged wide defender still commands a higher fee than the Tottenham man.

Admittedly, the West African has only a year left on his Spurs deal, whereas Hakimi has four years to go on his Inter contract.

Despite this, Paris Saint-Germain, Chelsea and Arsenal have all been linked with the wing-back — with the first pair showing strong interest — but Aurier has, so far, failed to generate interest comparable to the 22-year-old.

The Ivory Coast full-back, in theory, ought to have teams lining up to strike a deal with Spurs owing to the length of his contract; still, very little has materialised.

While the ex-PSG man recently revealed an intention to leave England, preferring a return to Paris and be reunited with old boss Mauricio Pochettino, the Ligue 1 giants seemingly prefer Hakimi and are willing to splurge a premium on the youngster.

Undeniably, Hakimi vs Aurier shouldn’t even be a debate.

Even though criticism of the 28-year-old can be greatly exaggerated and his influence at Spurs irritatingly watered down at times, he’s now a level or two below the Moroccan.

Indeed, the eye test proves this and so do the numbers.

Among defenders in Europe’s top five leagues, only Robin Gosens (17) was involved in more goal contributions than Hakimi’s 15 (seven goals and eight assists). Aurier netted only two goals and set up three assists.

Of course, the Ivory Coast full-back’s significantly lower minutes mean goals and assists may not be the appropriate metric to demonstrate the Inter wideman’s dominance. A deeper dive ought to do the trick.

According to Fbref, the explosive wing-back dominated for key passes per 90, progressive passes per 90, attempts to find a teammate in the final third and also in the penalty area. His expected assists average in Serie A in 20/21 predictably trumped Aurier’s with Spurs in the PL—0.23 to 0.11.

Unsurprisingly, the 22-year-old was more involved in moves leading to chances and goals last term. Hakimi played a part in 1.99 in-play passes per 90 leading to shots and 0.51 live-ball passes resulting in a goal for Inter in his debut campaign, whereas the Spurs player’s respective numbers read 1.29 and 0.17.

Antonio Conte’s usage of the Moroccan and the gifts of the young wide defender equally contribute to the chasm in how they fared in possession. The Scudetto champion averaged more attempted and completed dribbles than the West African and made more progressive ball carries per 90 than Aurier (7.47 to 3.20).

Expectedly, however, Tottenham’s right-back ranks higher for defensive actions.

He was the more accomplished presser, attempted a higher number of tackles per 90 (4.10 to 1.76) and averaged more blocks and interceptions. Significantly, Aurier beat the North African for recoveries per 90 and won 51 percent of his aerial duels, to Hakimi’s 31 percent.

Again, the aforementioned stats should be accompanied with the caveat that both players have largely functioned in different roles anyway with the Inter man fulfilling more attacking responsibility than the ex-PSG player.

Having said that, it is Hakimi who’s regarded as one of the best players in his position. Furthermore, the Inter star is highly sought-after in the current window and evidently has a higher ceiling than the 28-year-old.

Liverpool star Sadio Mane trained with the Senegal U20 national rugby team to motivate them ahead of their international assignment.

The Reds star is on holiday in his country, and on Friday he opted to show some sense of patriotism by joining the teenagers who are preparing for the African Cup in Kenya. Other teams in the competition are Namibia, Madagascar, Tunisia, Zimbabwe, Côte d’Ivoire and Zambia.

Mane was part of the session and the youngsters were elated to see the renowned football superstar.

The competition in the East Africa nation, which doubles up as a World Cup qualifier, is set to run from June 25-July 3 with the winner representing the continent in the global scene.

Senegal have been pooled in Group B alongside former champions Namibia, Zimbabwe, and Ivory Coast.

Hosts Kenya, who are the reigning champions, are in Group A with Madagascar, Tunisia, and Zambia.

Mane was also using the session to ensure he stays fit and ready for Liverpool's pre-season ahead of the new season that kicks off in August.

The Reds will start the 2021-22 Premier League season with a game against promoted Norwich City at Carrow Road.

The fixture is currently scheduled to take place on Saturday, August 14 and is the reverse of Liverpool’s opening game of their 2019-20 title-winning season when they beat Norwich 4-1 at Anfield.

Jurgen Klopp’s side will face Burnley in their first game at home, while Chelsea will visit Anfield before the end of August.

A trip to Leeds follows in September, while the Reds will meet champions Manchester City at home and archrivals Manchester United away in October.

The first Merseyside derby against Everton is at Goodison Park at the end of November, with the return date at Anfield in the latter stages of April.

The Christmas period will see Liverpool host Leeds on Boxing Day and then head to Leicester two days later before 2022 begins with a trip to Stamford Bridge to meet Chelsea.

Liverpool will again meet the two Manchester clubs in the space of three matches, while the season ends with a game against Wolves at Anfield on May 22. 

Antoine Griezmann says he still wants to move to the United States after his contract at Barcelona runs out.

The France international said last year that a spell in MLS has long been one of his career objectives .

The 30-year-old still has three years left on his contract at Camp Nou and says he could then end up leaving Europe to experience the American lifestyle and watch basketball.

What has been said?

Asked if he will move to MLS at the age of 32 or 33, Griezmann told Le Figaro : "I still have three years to go. I have to pay attention to my body, because at any time it can change.

"My contract with Barcelona runs until June 2024 and after that I think it will be the right time to go to the United States.

"I love this country, the culture, the NBA and the desire for adventure attracts me, but I also have a family that I would have to move out there.

"I would like to end my career there but still be good enough on the pitch and win MLS, instead of coming in with nothing to give and looking like nothing on the pitch. That wouldn't make sense."

How has Griezmann performed at Barcelona?

Griezmann was Barcelona's second top scorer in La Liga last season.

The former Real Sociedad and Atletico Madrid star netted 13 times as the Camp Nou side finished third in the table.

He also chipped in with two goals in the Champions League and three in the Copa del Rey, including one in the final as the Catalan side beat Athletic Club 4-0.

How is he doing with France?

The forward is a regular starter for Didier Deschamps' France side.

He struck in each of their pre-Euro 2020 friendly wins against Wales and Bulgaria and played the full 90 minutes as they beat Germany 1-0 in their first game of the tournament.

France are in action again on Saturday when they take on Hungary and will then finish off the group stage with a match against Portugal.

Further reading

Wydad Casablanca coach Faouzi Benzarti has emphasised on the “need to be at our best” as he readies for a match different from when they met Kaizer Chiefs in the Champions League group stage. 

Chiefs and Wydad clash in the Champions League semi-finals, first leg at Stade Mohamed V in what would be the two sides’ third clash this season.  

After the Moroccans beat Chiefs 4-0 in Ouagadougou in February, Amakhosi earned a 1-0 win at FNB Stadium. 

But with the Soweto giants having recently appointed Stuart Baxter as coach following the sacking of Gavin Hunt, Benzarti feels Amakhosi could be a different opponent.  

“This match will be quite different from the group stage match,” said Benzarti as per iDiski TV. 

“Every team that reaches the last four of the Champions League is a good team. We need to be at our best tomorrow [Saturday]. We need to score and to avoid conceding a goal. A lot of changes happened to Kaizer Chiefs [since the group stage], so we need to be at our best.” 

Returning Chiefs coach Baxter will be directing proceedings from the stands as he awaits his South African work permit, while Arthur Zwane and Dillon Sheppard will be on the bench. 

The Chiefs coaches face a veteran tactician Benzarti who is a 1994 Champions League winner with Esperance and has had four stints as Tunisia coach. 

Otherwise, Chiefs midfielder Willard Katsande feels they have experienced players who can help them subdue their much-fancied opponents. 

“All we want is to keep on making history for this brand,” Katsande told Chiefs media. 

“Reaching the semi-finals of Champions League with Kaizer Chiefs is a huge milestone and not only talking about the semi-final, we’re talking about qualifying for the group stages. As you know that we haven’t reached beyond the first round.  

“This season, we managed to get to the group stages, it was history on its own, for the club, for us as players.  And going to quarter-finals was also a plus to the group, and to the biggest brand, Kaizer Chiefs, also to put it up there in Africa, to say that we can also compete. 

“Here we are now, we are in the semi-final, and it is a huge game for us. And we’ve got so many internationals in the team, whereby we’re going to execute our game plan and try to go all the way and go to the final.”

“All we want is to keep on making history for this brand."

Kenya international Ayub Timbe was an unused substitute yet again as Vissel Kobe cruised to a 2-1 win against Avispa Fukuoka in a J1-League match on Saturday.

The Harambee Star has struggled to gain regular playing time since joining the side after ending his stay with Chinese-side Beijing Renhe.

On Saturday, he could not come yet again on as goals from Kyongo Furuhashi in the 2nd minute and former Barcelona star Andres Iniesta in the 80th minute gave Kobe maximum points at Level-5 Stadium.

It was Kobe under coach Thorsten Fink, who started the game on a bright note and they were 1-0 up with only two minutes played when Furuhashi raced onto a through ball from Douglas to loop the ball past advancing Avispa custodian Masaaki Murakami.

However, Avispa drew level in the 19th minute when Yuya Yamagishi started a solo run past Kobe players and was left unmarked to unleash a low-footed effort which beat keeper Daiya Maekawa to the back of the net.

The two teams went into the break tied at 1-1 and Kobe started the second half with the urge to retake the lead but Avispa maintained their defensive line tight.

Kobe had to wait until 10 minutes to the final whistle when Iniesta took the initiative to score from the penalty spot after he had been fouled inside the box by T. Nara, who was shown a straight yellow card for the incident.

Since scoring two goals in Kobe’s 3-0 win against Tokushima Vortis in the Japanese J1-League Cup on May 19, which was his first, Timbe has failed to make the team, always coming on as a substitute but on Saturday he did not come off the bench.

The win has pushed Kobe to position five in the 20 team league table with 31 points from 18 matches while the defeat left Avispa in sixth position as they have accumulated 29 points from 19 matches.

Kawasaki are still topping the log on 55 points from 21 matches, while Nagoya are second on 37 points from 20 matches and Yokohama PM are third with 34 points from 16 outings.

Timbe will be hoping to make a comeback to the starting squad when Kobe take on Yokohama FC in their next league assignment on Wednesday, June 23, at Misaki Park Stadium.

Liverpool midfielder Thiago Alcantara says he hates modern football and believes VAR is damaging the game.

The use of video technology to assist referees has proved controversial in football, causing long delays while officials review footage before coming to a decision on goals and fouls.

Spain international Thiago, who is currently with his national team at Euro 2020, says he has always been against the use of VAR and feels it is an example of football losing its way.

What has been said?

"Coaches can communicate with us better, players can communicate with each other more," the 30-year-old said, as quoted by  the Guardian .

"You lose competitiveness but develop other aspects. Extra substitutions mean teams that defend, defend to the 90th minute; teams that press you, press you to the end.

"I have that ‘hate modern football’ mentality; I’m more classic in attitude. And then there’s VAR, which I’ve always opposed. It removes the essence, the picaresque.

"We make mistakes when we play, referees have to make mistakes too. Lots of mythical moments wouldn’t exist [with VAR]. And when you score, even a brilliant goal from the halfway line, you’re waiting. Thinking: ‘I hope there isn’t a foul in the build-up, I hope there’s no offside, I hope'."

Football getting faster and more physical, says Thiago

Thiago feels football is losing its "magic" and "fantasy" as the game is becoming more physically intense and faster.

"It’s taken up a different pace, rhythm: more accelerated, more physical," he said.

"The figure of the No. 10 has almost disappeared. We see less magic, less fantasy. Footballers do more but faster. There’s no need to dribble because you run.

"Players are more developed in every sense. You lose that player who’s different, who ‘breathes’; the playmaker who was slower even if he had sublime technique doesn’t get the opportunity to turn.

"Those of us who are not so fast with our legs have to be faster in our heads. It’s like anything in life: adaptation. Things keep moving. Football changes constantly, expressed differently."

What next for Thiago and Spain?

After opening Euro 2020 with a 0-0 draw against Sweden, Spain will look to get their first win of the tournament when they take on Poland on Saturday.

They will then round off the group stage with a clash against Slovakia on Wednesday.

Further reading

Former Orlando Pirates star Joseph Makhanya has claimed the Premier Soccer League side is too big for Mandla Ncikazi to handle.

Ncikazi was incorporated into the Bucs technical team on Friday after partying ways with Golden Arrows and Makhanya believes the tactician showed ability with his previous club but Pirates come with a whole new and bigger challenge.

"I still felt he was right where he was [at Arrows], he was still finding himself," Makhanya told KickOff.com.

"With the pressure that comes with coaching Pirates, I don't think he's the right man, but as long as he's got proper support, he can do well.

"He showed at Arrows that he's got the capabilities of being a good coach, but still I think it was too soon for him to leave them for Pirates. I think there's too much pressure there." 

Makhanya further stated that the former Maritzburg United tactician needs to hone his skills for more seasons in order to develop attributes that will make him successful at a club like Pirates.

"I feel he still needed to establish himself for three or four seasons before he could consider [coaching] teams like Pirates, because sometimes these teams can break you instead of build you. The pressure is too much," added the former Moroka Swallows star.

"For now, he [Ncikazi] can be an assistant and maybe the club finds somebody who is stronger as a head coach. That's if Pirates are looking for a coach, because the current coach has not left yet.

"As much as you want to strengthen your technical team, the coaches need to have a similar style. They can't believe in different philosophies. 

"If you look at Fadlu [Davids], he's a firm believer of transitions like [Ernst] Middendorp, there will surely be a clash if you partner him with someone like, let's say, Dan Malesela. 

"But at the end of the day, this is only my opinion. As an assistant at Pirates, I have no doubt he will have an impact, but as a head coach, I think his time is still coming."

Ncikazi has joined Bucs while head coach Jozef Zinnbauer's future remains uncertain.

Former Kaizer Chiefs winger Junior Khanye feels there is a huge gulf in quality between the Soweto giants and Wydad Casablanca, while predicting a big win for the Moroccans in Saturday’s Caf Champions League semi-final, first-leg clash at Stade Mohamed V.

Chiefs are up against a team that thumped them 4-0 in the group stages in Burkina Faso where Wydad were the home side. 

While saying the arrival of new coach Stuart Baxter and a positive finish to the Premier Soccer League campaign has lifted Chiefs’ spirits, Khanye believes that they will be found wanting in terms of class.  

“The motivation is too much for Chiefs but they lack the quality. The quality makes the difference. You can be motivated but if you lack the quality, [it’s difficult],” Khanye told iDiski TV.

“Wydad is going to win this game. Wydad are not your typical African team, they play sort of European football. If you test them, they have the answer. Their coach is also very experienced. I don’t see Kaizer Chiefs scoring a goal. I know they are going to be defensive. 

“I see them conceding more than two goals and they will never score a single goal. It is not going to be easy for them to score.” 

Meanwhile, former Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Benedict Vilakazi feels that experienced goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune should start ahead of Bruce Bvuma as Amakhosi face “Goliath.” 

Khune has made a series of mistakes this season and was recently injured in what handed Bvuma some game time towards the end of the PSL campaign. 

Bvuma has made two Champions League appearances this season, featuring in both legs of the quarter-finals against Simba SC which included conceding three goals in Dar es Salaam.  

“Chiefs need experience and I would go with Khune. Yes, Bvuma did well [in recent matches] but looking at the players pound for pound and their experience, I would go for Khune,” Vilakazi told iDiski TV. 

“I know Khune being there is also going to be intimidating to Wydad who know that this guy has been the number one goalkeeper in South Africa who has been at the World Cup and has been doing well. So they will be shaking to see him between the goalposts.  

“When you refer to the records, they don’t lie so I would go for Khune with his experience. There are many elements why I have chosen Khune because even during the match he can encourage the players and command at the back and also play a counter because he serves the ball well from his goal area.” 

Khune was in goals when Wydad beat Chiefs 4-0 in neutral Burkina Faso in the group stage and made some errors which gifted the Moroccans the heavy win. 

Daniel Akpeyi guarded goal in Chiefs’ group home fixture when they edged the Moroccans 1-0 at FNB Stadium. 

Vilakazi feels that Amakhosi players will be inspired by trying to impress returning coach Stuart Baxter but that will, however, not stop them from losing “1-0.” 

“Now there is a new coach and every player who will be fielded will want to prove to the coach that they deserve to start in the line-up. So this can give Chiefs that edge since everyone would want to prove themselves,” said Vilakazi. 

“I think Chiefs will lose by 1-0, it is going to be tough for them because when they don’t have players like [Dumisani] Zuma and Khama [Billiat] who can make a difference, it is different. Now Manyama is not available as well.”

Former Super Eagles captain John Obi Mikel has promised to inspire athletes in Nigeria to realize their goals after being appointed Youth Ambassador by the federal government.

The 34-year-old Stoke City midfielder was confirmed on Friday evening at the National Stadium in Lagos and he has stated he will also be helping athletes in other disciplines to excel.

"I feel highly honoured to be appointed as Youth Ambassador of this country, it is a great feeling," Mikel said as quoted by Daily Post.

"I am happy with this partnership and I promise to do my best to encourage and inspire the youth towards national development, not just in football but in other sports like basketball, boxing, among others."

Minister of Youth and Sports Development Sunday Dare went on to describe the former Chelsea player as a role model and a legend who has managed to impact youth positively.

"[Mikel] is a role model whose lasting legacies in football development has continued to have a positive impact on youth in the country," Dare stated.

"Time will not permit me to say much about Mikel’s success as a footballer. He is our legend and a role model who has continued to impact the lives of youth positively.

"It is my pleasure to appoint you as Nigeria Youth Ambassador. It’s a new portfolio and your role as youth ambassador will be made known to Nigerians."  

Recently, the midfielder revealed his desire to work with the governor of Kogi state Yahaya Bello for the betterment of Nigerians.

The experienced player had paid a courtesy visit to the governor on Sunday and praised his contribution to the progress of Kogi State.

Mikel also promised to support Bello in his future political endeavours and help foster youth development.

"It is an honour for me to finally meet his Excellency personally after all the good things I have heard and read about him from not just the people of Kogi State but from Nigerians," Mikel said.

"My main aim is to come here to show my appreciation and to thank him for all the things he has been doing for the people and also to support him in whatever future political positions he wants to go into."

Mamelodi Sundowns captain Hlompho Kekana believes rivals Kaizer Chiefs can use their underdog tag to reach the final of the Caf Champions League at the expense of Wydad Casablanca.

Amakhosi will continue with their chase for Caf glory with a semi-final, first leg battle away against Wydad at Stade Mohamed V on Saturday and the clash will see the Soweto-based giants attempt to upset Wydad who are regarded as one of the favourites in the competition.

Kekana insists the game in Casablanca will be a good step for Chiefs to stake their claim in the competition as they are a fearless team and will be playing as underdogs, which to him is an added advantage for the South African giants.

“Well, it's a very good spot that they find themselves in. If you check, the chances are very high [of reaching the final] because Chiefs are a team that is fearless," Kekana told the media as quoted by Kickoff.

“They have never been in that space before, so for me, they have little to lose in that match. The expectations on them are so little and it's always nice to play as underdogs.

“When you are sitting in a space where the least is expected from you – you do the business. So, I believe they stand a chance of going to the finals.”

The North African heavyweights eliminated MC Alger from the competition 2-1 on aggregate as Amakhosi advanced after a 4-3 aggregate win over Tanzania Mainland League champions Simba SC.

Amakhosi have not been able to call on all of their regular players for what is the club’s biggest game ever on the continental stage. They will have to do without Ramahlwe Mphahlele and Lebogang Manyama who joined the injury list that already has Khama Billiat and Dumsani Zuma on it.

Co-coaches Zwane and Dillon Sheppard have also been able to call upon Chiefs’ experienced and younger players for the game in Morocco, with that in mind they opted to take three goalkeepers with them calling up Bruce Bvuma, Itumeleng Khune, and Daniel Akpeyi.

Kaizer Chiefs continue with their chase of Caf Champions League glory with a semi-final, first leg match away against Wydad Casablanca at Stade Mohamed V on Saturday.

The Soweto giants remain the only South African team active following the conclusion of the Premier Soccer League season and Mamelodi Sundowns' elimination from the Champions League as well as Orlando Pirates' exit from the Caf Confederation Cup.

Saturday's clash will see Chiefs attempting to upset Wydad who are regarded as one of the favourites in the competition.

Making the assignment tricky for Amakhosi is that they are facing a team that is difficult to beat in Casablanca.

But with new coach Stuart Baxter directing operations from the stands as Arthur Zwane and Dillon Sheppard sit on the bench, Chiefs hopes for some improved football and could be fancying their chances against Wydad.

TV Channel, Live Score & How To Watch

Squads & Team News

No Wydad Casablanca player has been confirmed as injured or suspended for Saturday's clash.

Chiefs will have to be wary of the danger posed by Wydad striker and Morocco international Ayoub El Kaabi who has four Champions League goals and two assists in eight appearances this season.

Kaabi was on target when Wydad beat Amakhosi 4-0 in a Champions League group stage tie earlier this season.

Also to watch our is midfielder Walid El Karti who has managed two goals and as many assists in nine Champions League games.

Chiefs received a big blow ahead of their trip to Casablanca when forward Lebogang Manyama failed a fitness test.

Manyama's injury comes at a time he had picked some good form after grabbing a hat-trick in Chiefs penultimate PSL fixture against Golden Arrows.

Joining him on the injury list is defender Ramahlwe Mphahlele who also did not travel to Casablanca.

Khama Billiat is also not available, being a long-term absentee together with Dumisani Zuma.

Goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune made the trip to Morocco after regaining full fitness and has not played since April 28.

Match Preview

Chiefs are not new to Stade Mohamed V and are back in Casablanca for the first time in six years when they lost 2-0 to Raja Casablanca in a Champions League first round, second leg tie in April 2015.

Their three previous visits to North Africa in this competition all ended in defeats, starting with a 1-0 loss to Zamalek in 1993, followed by the 4-0 thumping by Esperance in 2005, before the Raja result.

While it has become difficult for them to secure at least a draw away from home against North African opposition, Chiefs succumbed to a 4-0 thrashing by Wydad in neutral Ouagadougou this season in a group encounter in February.

But they saved face with a 1-0 win over an almost second-string Wydad in the home leg in April.

Since concluding their PSL campaign on June 5, Chiefs have enjoyed some two weeks without being involved in competitive action in what could have given them enough time to prepare for their Casablanca assignment.

That cannot be said about their opponents who were last involved in a Moroccan Botola Pro League match on Wednesday when they were held 0-0 at home by Renaissance Zemamra but still lead the table.

Chiefs could be drawing confidence that they ended their PSL campaign on a high by securing a top-eight spot and are unbeaten in five of their last six Champions League games.

They face a Wydad side that has not lost in their last five Champions League home games, with their last defeat coming in the final of the 2019/20 edition against Al Ahly in October.

Football Kenya Federation has suspended sports activities in 13 counties where a partial lockdown was ordered due to the rising coronavirus cases.
 
Although FKF suspended the activities, it confirmed they are in talks with the government to have the affected sides play their matches in the counties that are not affected by the order. Kakamega Homeboyz, Western Stima, Vihiga United and Nzoia Sugar are the top-flight teams who were affected by the new directive as they reside in the affected regions.

"Reference is made to the Ministry of Health directive dated June 17, 2021 with regard to the developing Covid-19 situation in the country, which led to the suspension of sports activities in Busia, Vihiga, Kisii, Nyamira, Kakamega, Kericho, Bomet, Bungoma, Trans-Nzoia, Kisumu, Siaya, Homa Bay, and Migori counties," the FKF letter seen by Goal read.
 
"In light of the foregoing, and the urgent need to mitigate the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic in the aforementioned 13 counties, the federation has, with immediate effect, suspended all FKF Women Division One, FKF Division One and Two, County and Sub-County leagues, as well as all grassroots football programmes in the said counties for a period of 30 days.
 
"For avoidance of doubt, leagues in the counties not affected by the government's directive will go on as scheduled in line with the existing FKF/Caf and government Covid-19 protocols.
 
"Additionally, the federation will continue to engage the government with a view of having Premier League clubs, National Super League sides and Division One teams from the affected 13 counties play their home matches in the neighboring counties."
 
After the Ministry of Health announced the new order, Kakamega Homeboyz's chair, Cleophas Shimanyula was quick to point out how the move would affect their teams.
 
"We cannot afford to sustain these players to live outside their towns so we cannot be able to honour the remaining matches, it will not be possible and we now have to wait for FKF to give us direction on the matter," Shimanyula said.
 
Although the new directive affects mainly the Western regions, it is the third time that sports activities have been suspended since the pandemic first struck the country over one year ago.

Simba SC coach Didier Gomes Da Rosa has opened another round of banter with his rivals Yanga SC after he stated his dream is to beat them and be crowned champions at the same time.

The two giants will face off at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium on July 3 and Simba have two matches to play before their clash.

What has been said?

“We are determined to beat Yanga, this is an important match that sets a great record for us by confirming the title is back home again, in a big game and I believe that is possible,” Da Rosa told Goal.

“We only need to win our next three matches to be crowned, and we want to start to win against Polisi Tanzania and then we return to Dar es Salaam to handle Mbeya City, after that then we face Yanga, it will be nice to win the trophy in front of them, I will be a very proud man for the achievement.”

Simba need just nine points from the remaining three matches to defend the title and in a previous interview, assistant coach Selemani Matola told Goal they want to wrap the title up as soon as possible.

“We know if we win our next three matches, then we will be crowned champions again, so we are working towards that and nothing will stop us,” Matola told Goal ahead of the fixture.

"We want to wrap the title as soon as possible and we don’t want to take it to the end of the season.”

Simba to miss Chama and Ajibu

Matola confirmed the Wekundu wa Msimbazi will miss two players for the game – Clatous Chama and Ibrahim Ajibu – both of whom have family problems and were left in Dar es Salaam.

In the first round meeting, Simba beat Polisi 2-0 and will be keen to seal a double over them, and in the previous season, the reigning champions completed a double winning the first round fixture 2-1 before picking another 2-1 win in the second round.

While Simba are sitting at the top of the 18-team table with 67 points from 27 matches and with two matches in hand, Polisi are lying 9th on 36 points from 33 matches.

Black Star Majeed Ashimeru has extended his message of appreciation to former team Red Bull Salzburg after completing his switch to RSC Anderlecht.

The youngster penned a four-year deal with the Mauves, having initially joined them on loan in January. He transferred to the Belgian club in search of more playing time after struggling to hold down a regular playing position at Salzburg, the club he joined four years ago.

"Thank you Red Bull Salzburg for the opportunity you gave me to continue with my development in Europe, I am eternally grateful," Ashimeru posted on his official Twitter account.

"To the board, technical team, fans, and my teammates, I can’t thank you all enough. Know that you have a staunch supporter in Belgium, Danke!"

During his half-season loan at Anderlecht, Ashimeru made 11 appearances in the Belgian First Division A, starting in nine of the games and scoring once.

Ashimeru joined Salzburg from Ghana Premier League side Wafa in 2017.

He was immediately sent out on loan to Austrian club Austria Lustenau, where he made 11 appearances, starting 10 of the games and scoring once, before later moving on to Wolfsberger and Swiss fold St. Gallen.

In the elite division, he featured 15 times, started 14 of the matches, and found the back of the net twice.

In the 2018-19 season, Ashimeru moved to Swiss club St. Gallen where he played 34 times in the top-flight, made the first XI on 31 occasions, and registered four goals.

The 23-year-old was recalled to Salzburg for the 2019-20 season, where he played 20 league matches for the side, involving 15 starts and two goals. 

Owing to limited outings during the first half of the 2020-21 term, he was loaned to Anderlecht for the second half of the term.

Next season, the midfielder will hope to make an impression on Ghana coach CK Akonnor for a recall for national duty after being snubbed from the most recent squad for friendly matches against Morocco and Cote d’Ivoire. 

The midfielder will now be aiming at helping Anderlecht to win the Belgian Jupiler Pro League again.

Al Ahly goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy has noted they understand the quality of their Caf Champions League opponents Esperance de Tunis and their focus is to reach the final.

The Red Devils from Egypt will face the Tunisian giants at Hammadi Agrebi Olympic Stadium in Rades in the first-leg semi-final clash on Saturday with the return leg scheduled to be played on July 25 in Cairo.

Speaking ahead of the fixture, El Shenawy, who doubles as the club’s captain, has explained the mood in camp insisting as players, they have always put their desire in retaining the title and will focus to win the two-legged tie.

“We, the players, always speak about our desire to win the Champions League title again this season, we play for Al Ahly and we always play for winning,” El Shenawy said as quoted by the club’s official website.

“It is an important game for us and for our fans. We know it will be a difficult game and we also know the value of Esperance and their strength in the African competitions. They are a strong side and they have many good players.”

“We have been preparing for this game for 15 days and we are fully focused to get a positive result to have an advantage in the second leg.”

“Our game against Esperance in 2018 is in the past now. The two teams witnessed several changes since that game. We have already forgotten that game and we are focusing only on tomorrow’s match.”

“The two clubs enjoy a great relationship and I hope that the players show mutual respect tomorrow on the pitch.”

Ahead of the game, Al Ahly have confirmed defender Ahmed Ramadan Beckham will be available for selection after shaking off an injury.

“Al Ahly defender Beckham participated in part of the team’s training session on Friday at Hammadi Agrebi Stadium, the venue of Saturday’s game between Al Ahly and Esperance in the first leg,” the club said on the same portal.

“Beckham is suffering from an injury in the adductor muscle and he underwent a medical check-up before the training. The player joined his teammates in part of Friday’s training and completed the training session alone under the supervision of the physiotherapist."

Ghana attacker Christian Atsu has stated he will not be playing in Europe after exiting Premier League outfit Newcastle United.

The Black Star announced his departure from the Magpies after five years at the club. 

The winger left the Magpies after seeing out his contract. It marked an end to a frustrating last 12 months, where he was frozen out of the first team and had to take a place with the second team. Consequently, he played no part of the club's Premier League campaign in the just-ended season.

The West African, who has two weeks remaining on his contract with the English side, concedes he will be out of Europe despite interest from other teams.

"I have a lot of offers but I think I will leave Europe, but I cannot say anything for now," Atsu said as quoted by Ghanaweb.

The 29-year-old is rumoured to be on his way to Saudi Arabian Pro League side Al Raed FC who are keen on making their squad better.

Atsu joined Newcastle from Chelsea in 2016, initially on loan during the former's time in the English second-tier.

With 32 Championship appearances and five goals to help the club qualify for the Premier League, the attacker did enough to impress the Magpies, who moved to make his stay at St James Park permanent, signing him on a four-year contract.

He appeared 28 times in each of the club's first two seasons on their return to the elite division before seeing his numbers drop to 19 in the 2019-20 term.

Last season, things changed for the 29-year-old when he was left out of the registered squad at the start of the Premier League season.

In January, he was lucky to be reinstated to the squad but still found himself on the sidelines as he failed to make the matchday squad for any of the games.

Away from the first team, the former Everton and Bournemouth man played six times for the second team and scored once. 

He has also played for Portuguese heavyweights Porto where he made 17 appearances, scoring one goal in the process.

Ronaldinho and Sergio Ramos are no strangers to each other, having gone up against each other in Spain during the early part of the latter's career. 

The former Barcelona attacking midfielder and the Real Madrid defender had pitted their wits in battle many a time during the El Clasicos. Now, they have traded blows on social media as well. 

Ramos, who joined Real Madrid in 2005, recently decided to announce his exit from Santiago Bernabeu and Ronaldinho, who was at Barcelona till 2008, decided to take a dig. 

The Brazilian put out an image of him striking the ball during a match against Real Madrid, with Ramos watching on. 

The only issue with the tweet was that the 41-year-old might have been attempting to refer to his double in Barcelona's 3-0 win over Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu during the 2005-06 season. 

But he had used a picture from Real Madrid's 2-0 win over Barcelona at the Bernabeu in the 2006-07 season. Furthermore, in that particular match, Ramos had played a key role, assisting Raul's opener for Real Madrid before Ruud van Nistelrooy sealed the win. 

And the 35-year-old Ramos was quick to pounce on Ronaldinho's error.

Real Madrid had gone on to win their 30th LaLiga title in 2006-07 and Ramos reminded Ronaldinho of the fact that it was the Los Blancos' win in that particular game that was key to Madrid winning the title. 

2006-07 was a thrilling title race with Real Madrid and Barcelona finishing level on points but a superior head-to-head record meant Real Madrid won the title.

Argentina eked out a 1-0 win over Uruguay in Copa America’s Group B clash at the Estadio Nacional De Brasilia. A Guido Rodriguez header in the 13th minute was all that separated the two sides, with Lionel Messi providing the crucial assist.

A limp first-half display from Oscar Tabarez’s side was met by improvements in the second period, but Edinson Cavani and Luis Suarez were isolated figures as the midfield failed to turn defence into attack with incision.

Argentina sat deeper and deeper as the match wore on looking to hold onto their lead, while hitting on the counter-attack through an ever-involved Messi.

The Argentina skipper sent in a cross, after beating his man, towards the back post where Rodriguez got the better of Rodrigo Bentancur to guide the ball home.

 It certainly wasn’t a vintage performance from the Albiceleste, but the three points is enough to take them level with Chile at the top of the group.

Luis Scaloni’s team have also ended ended their run of three consecutive draws with a win over Uruguay, who were playing their first game in the competition. Argentina now have 90 wins over Uruguay in 195 official meetings between the two countries, as compared to 59 of Uruguay.

Argentina-Uruguay is the oldest rivalry in South America, with 194 official meetings between the two countries. The Albiceleste lead the way with 89 victories, to Uruguay’s 59.

Argentina will be up against Paraguay on Tuesday morning at 5.30 am IST.