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James Rodriguez was "desperate to play" at Real Madrid, according to Carlo Ancelotti, who says the Colombian star has "found the right place" at Everton.

James spent six years on Madrid's books after joining the club from Monaco for £63 million ($83m) following his star turn at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.

The midfielder attracted the Blancos' attention after helping Colombia reach the quarter-finals of the tournament, during which he also managed to pick up the Golden Boot.

He never quite managed to live up to the potential he showed on the international stage during his time at Santiago Bernabeu though, despite winning two La Liga titles and two Champions League crowns.

James scored 37 goals in 125 games for Madrid in total, but found himself on the fringes of the action after returning to the club in 2019 following a two-year loan spell at Bayern Munich.

Zinedine Zidane only granted the playmaker eight La Liga appearances last season, and happily sanctioned his departure when Everton came calling in September.

The Toffees snapped James up for £22 million (€24m/$29m), which has so far proved to be a bargain fee, with the ex-Monaco star contributing three goals and three assists in his first seven Premier League outings for the club.

Ancelotti, who was in charge of Madrid when the Colombia international moved to the Bernabeu, thinks a man who has struggled for consistency over the years has finally arrived at the perfect destination for his talents to shine through.

"First of all, he wanted to find a club where he could play more frequently compared to Real Madrid," the Everton head coach told NBC Sports.

"He had times at Real Madrid where he didn't play a lot. He wanted a new challenge, was desperate to play, and I think he found the right place, because he knows me, I know him ... The club wants to improve, the club has a big project.

"I think that he found the right place to show his quality and, of course, the player is really, really talented; he doesn't miss a pass, he doesn't miss a control, he doesn't miss a shot. He doesn't play complicated football, he plays simple."

Rodriguez will be back in line for a place in Ancelotti's line-up when the Toffees take in a trip to Craven Cottage to face Fulham on November 21.

Nigeria national team coach Gernot Rohr is optimistic the Super Eagles can qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations with a game to spare.

The West Africans qualified for the 2018 World Cup in Russia and the 2019 Afcon tournament in Egypt before completing the qualifiers.

The three-time African champions are on the verge of repeating a similar achievement for the 2022 continental showpiece.

The Super Eagles currently lead Group L of the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers with six points from two games after victories over the Republic of Benin and Lesotho.

Nigeria will take on Sierra Leone in a double-header, with the first leg scheduled for the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium on Friday.

Victories in the encounters could see the West African giants secure a place in the next edition of the Afcon tournament and Rohr hopes his side can again repeat the feat.

"We will not underrate this team, our tradition is to be qualified with games to spare, we want to continue in this tradition," Rohr told the media.

"We desire to win our games and since the beginning, we were in this direction, we are sometimes lucky to win our first games but I think the determination of the staff, of the team, is giving us this opportunity to be ready.

"Tomorrow won't be easy but if we start with nine points in three games, even a draw in Sierra Leone could be enough but we go all the time for winning the games."

"It won't be easy, we showed already a video to our players but unfortunately some of our players arrived only yesterday night so we have to do it again this morning.”

Super Eagles captain Ahmed Musa also revealed Nigeria are battle-ready for the Sierra Leone clash on Friday.

“We have trained together twice now and I can say we are ready for the game on Friday,” Musa said.

Nigeria finished third at the last edition of the continental tournament in Egypt, with Algeria and Senegal beating them to the gold and silver medals respectively.

South Africa booked a place in the final of the 2020 Cosafa Women's Cup after defeating 10-women Malawi 6-2 in Thursday's semi-final encounter. 

Banyana Banyana recorded a clinical winning run despite the absence of foreign stars, starting with a 2-0 triumph over Angola before 5-0 and 7-0 wins over Eswatini and Comoros respectively.  

Having advanced as Group A winners, Desiree Ellis' team aimed to avoid a defeat in the quest to defend their title against Malawi.

On their part, the Scorchers emerged as Group B winners following clinical 9-0 and 1-0 victories over Lesotho and Zambia respectively.

The Malawians were reduced to 10 players after goalkeeper Samir Amido was handed her marching orders for a poor challenge 20 minutes into the encounter but the first half ended in a stalemate.

After the restart, Banyana came alive as Nomvula Kgoale broke the deadlock six minutes into the second half to put the hosts ahead.

Malawi, however, got a swift response two minutes later when Temwa Chawinga fired in a stunner from outside the area.

With their lead cancelled, Hildah Magaia recovered the advantage for South Africa in the 62nd minute before Kgoale bagged her brace of the match to extend the lead two minutes later.

Banyana continued to profit from their numerical advantage as Magaia hit her second and Banyana's fourth in the 68th minute before Sibulele Holweni got on the scoresheet six minutes later. 

15 minutes from time, Magaia netted her treble and Banyana's sixth as Tabitha Chawinga's late effort three minutes later only counted as a consolation goal for the Malawians.

The result handed South Africa an eighth successive final appearance but shattered Malawi's dream of a maiden final spot.

Having advanced, Banyana Banyana will go up against final debutants Botswana in the final on Saturday and will seek to avenge their 2020 Olympic Qualifying elimination against the Mares.

Gareth Southgate has revealed that he had a "long chat" with Jurgen Klopp after Liverpool and England were dealt an injury blow with Joe Gomez.

Gomez was forced to withdraw from the England squad after going down with a serious knee issue in training on Wednesday.

The 23-year-old has since undergone successful surgery on the injury, but now looks set to sit out a large portion of the 2020-21 campaign as he begins his recovery.

Gomez will join Virgil van Dijk in the Reds' treatment room, with the Netherlands international currently working his way back from a cruciate ligament problem, leaving only Joel Matip and Nathaniel Phillips available as natural centre-back options for Klopp.

Southgate also had to shuffle his pack ahead of a friendly clash with the Republic of Ireland after losing the Liverpool star, who will also miss the upcoming Nations League doubleheader against Belgium and Iceland.

The Three Lions head coach says he has been in contact with Klopp over the importance of reducing the risk of any further injuries in the squad, with clubs across the Premier League currently struggling to deal with the demands of a fixture list which has been adversely affected by the coronavirus crisis.

"I had a long chat with Jurgen last night, we're all worried about player welfare. To lose a player in the way that we did yesterday for us and Liverpool, but most importantly for the boy, was really tragic," Southgate told ITV Sport.

"There needs to be a look at the calendar. We're fortunate we've got the six subs [against the Republic of Ireland] and five in the Nations League, we've got to try and lessen the load as much as we can for the players."

Asked whether he and Klopp were in agreement on how best to protect the players in the current climate, Southgate responded: "Unfortunately the injury was so unique in how it happened that we know it was just a consequence of the number of games.

"Wherever he had been there's a chance that would have happened. We're on the same page, we think the welfare of the players is critical."

Pernille Harder does not remember exactly what Zlatan Ibrahimovic said to her when the pair shared a stage in 2015.

“It was something like, ‘Believe in yourself and keep doing what you’re doing,’” the Dane reveals in an exclusive interview with Goal at Chelsea's Cobham Training Centre.

What she does remember, though, is how people started watching her more closely afterwards. Taking centre stage at an awards show with Swedish superstar Ibrahimovic was always going to garner Harder extra attention.

And she did not disappoint, establishing herself as one of the finest players in the women’s game over the next few years with her creativity and lethal finishing.

However, it was a seemingly innocuous act off the field that made Harder belatedly realise just how important a public figure she could become.  

After an ecstatic Magda Eriksson had helped Sweden reach the quarter-finals of last year's Women's World Cup, she sought out Harder, who was in the crowd, and the couple shared a kiss.  

Perfectly natural, nothing unusual: player kisses partner after important victory. Eriksson and Harder understandably thought nothing of it.

Images of the two quickly went viral, though, held up as a beautiful symbol of pure love in a world still divided by hate. Within a matter of minutes, Harder suddenly had thousands more followers on her social media channels.

"It made me realise that I have a platform; that we have a platform," the 27-year-old explains. "People are listening to me and seeing what happens on my platform.

"It showed me that I have a voice and, after that, I have wanted to use it more because I feel it makes a difference.

"It is very important to have role models, no matter who you are. In our community, it is even more important because it helps you understand that you are not alone by being homosexual or something like this.

"It is a special topic because people maybe don't like to talk about it or they don't want to come out, so, it is important to have role models so that you can feel more secure about yourself."

The LGBT+ community certainly could not have a much better role model than Harder.

She grew up in the small Danish town of Inkast watching Premier League football because of her father, Mogens, who was an avid Manchester United fan.

At the time, Harder had few female role models to look up to, but her dream was to become the best footballer in the world. She has now achieved that goal.

After winning Germany's and UEFA's Women's Player of the Year awards for 2020, the forward has now finished top of the Goal 50 rankings, pipping Arsenal striker Vivianne Miedema to top spot.

Harder's No.1 ranking was well deserved. The striker scored 38 goals in all competitions as Wolfsburg won the double in Germany and reached the final of the Champions League, where they were beaten 3-1 by Lyon.

That defeat in Vienna was tough to take, particularly as Harder has yet to get her hands on a winners' medal in Europe's premier club cup competition.

"Of course, I need to win it," she admits. "It is unfinished business until I have won it. But that's why I came to Chelsea, because the club also has those ambitions to win the big titles."

There's no disputing that. Chelsea broke the women's football world record to sign Harder for a reported £250,000 ($330,000) ahead of the start of the 2020-21 Women's Super League campaign.

Harder's father obviously would have preferred to see his daughter move to Manchester United, and fans pleaded with her online to join their club instead.

However, Harder's mind had already been made up. Mogens may be a long-time United fan, but Harder has been following Chelsea for some time now because of Eriksson.

"Playing for Chelsea is weird for my dad but now he now supports the women's side at least," Harder laughs.

"He still supports Man United's men's team as he's such a big fan but soon I will bring him his first Chelsea shirt and see if he wants to wear it! I won't force him, though!

"But, obviously, I watched Chelsea games during the previous three years because Magda plays here, as many games as I could.

"And I had become a little bit of a fan because I wanted things to go well for Magda. So, now it's even more fun to be part of this team too."

Everything seems to have fallen perfectly into place for Harder, but there will be no let up, no resting on her laurels.

She wants that Champions League winners’ medal, and she wants to continue proving herself the best player in the world.

"I think the most difficult part of getting to the top is staying there,” Harder says. “You should not be satisfied with what you have done and say, ‘Okay, that’s it.’

"So, that's what motivates me, to keep being one of the best players in the world. If I felt like I was complete, and satisfied with what I have done now, then I would quit playing because I would stop finding football fun."

There is no chance of that, though. Just as there is no chance of Harder of giving up a platform that she knows he can use to make a real difference.

Indeed, Harder is now fully aware that she can be just as big a force off the field, as she is on it.

The young woman that once shared a stage with Ibrahimovic is now a star in her own right.

Liverpool should be looking to counter injury issues at centre-half by moving captain Jordan Henderson back into their defensive unit, claims John Aldridge.

Jurgen Klopp continues to see fitness setbacks hinder his long-term thinking at Anfield.

Losing Virgil van Dijk to knee ligament damage during their eventful derby clash with Everton was a crushing blow, and Liverpool’s luck has got worse since then.

Fabinho and Joel Matip have had spells on the sidelines, while Joe Gomez is another who has been forced onto the treatment table. He, like Van Dijk, has had to undergo knee surgery and will be missing for several months.

Klopp faces an unwelcome selection headache as a result, with his options severely depleted, but Aldridge believes asking an experienced figure to step out of midfield could work in the Reds’ favour.

The former Liverpool striker told Sky Sports: “We’ve obviously got players that can fill in there and some good young players but, with all due respect to them, you do need experience to go with it.

“It’s the one position where Liverpool could pay the price. We’re swamped players in midfield and up front but at centre-back it doesn’t look good.

“I think he has to [spend in January] now. With all due respect to Joel Matip, he’s not got a great record with injuries.

“We’ve got Fabinho who can go there, he’s got players like Henderson and [Gini] Wijnaldum who have played there but only a few times. They can do a good job. The young lads have done terrific but on a long-term basis are they good enough at this moment? I don’t know.

“I think he has to and I think he knew that before Gomez’s injury. It’s a long season but the one thing we’ve got going forward is that Liverpool frighten the life out of teams with the attacking power that we have.”

Pressed further on who he would line up alongside Matip for a return to domestic action on November 21, Aldridge added: “You’ve got Leicester up next and they have Jamie Vardy who is absolutely magnificent at the moment.

“Is he going to play the young players, who can he fit in there? Jordan to do a job? Vardy is absolutely flying and that’s a bit scary but, going forward, Liverpool are different class.

“Again, I go back to the way Vardy is playing. If I was in his position and you’ve got a young recruit playing centre-half, it’s going to be difficult for the young lads with the way he peels off, plays on the shoulder, drifts out wide where they don’t want to go.

“He’s a master of it at the moment, he’s the best centre-forward in the country and even above Harry Kane with the way he’s playing. It’s a big dilemma for Jurgen. Personally, I would go with Jordan Henderson but whenever he’s put the young players in they’ve never let him down.”

Nat Phillips and Rhys Williams have been handed Premier League and Champions League bows respectively since Van Dijk was laid low, but neither academy graduate boasts much senior experience.

FC Goa and Red Bull Leipzig on Thursday announced a strategic partnership between the two clubs for a period of three years.

Oliver Mintzlaff, who is the Head of Global Soccer at Red Bull and CEO at RB Leipzig, explained the factors that made the Goan Indian Super League (ISL) club the perfect fit to be involved with for this kind of a deal. 

"The process took quite a lot of time as we were in talks since 2018. We were aware that we needed to engage ourselves internationally because the Bundesliga takes place internationally. So we made many rounds (of conversations) and landed with FC Goa, as the two clubs have the same vision and goals with a similar understanding of football. Our talks and conversations over the years led to the fact that we are here today," he said.

With regard to potentially turning the partnership into further investment, he added, "Of course, the Indian market is interesting to us and with this early entry there are not many European clubs that deal with Indian markets at such an extensive level. We want to leave footsteps beyond just one or two football camps. So the grassroots initiatives are the first steps and the cooperation with FC Goa may lead to more opportunities than the online and real camps."

Mintzlaff was quizzed whether FC Goa's logo will see any change, he had nothing to share on that front and continued, "If you're asking about buying shares (at FC Goa), you can become a partner without buying shares."

The partnership will involve opportunities for young Indian talents to train and hone their skills at the German club's facilities and in future, Leipzig is expected to offer support with on-site training that will involve the exchange of know-how regarding youth development. 

"What we (Leipzig) receive is a certain market opening and research into a very interesting market. We think that the topic of brand awareness is important to us. Digital reach is very important to our club and we want to transport it through the FC Goa platform," the German club's CEO confirmed.

"We hope to get a better understanding of football in India through the camps that we execute. If we fly to India in phase two, we will integrate our scouting department and new cooperations can be set up to get some players to Germany but this is something that we cannot plan in advance."

Would see an Indian player in the Bundesliga or one from the Bundesliga plying his trade in India, possibly with FC Goa?

"If you continue to be more successful, part and parcel of it are that you incorporate all bits of the club. Probably in the next three years, we will plan a trip to India. After the digital reach, we assure that we can travel to India with the entire first team. When it will happen and to what extent, it is too early to say. If you ask me in a year's time, I could tell you more about that," Mintzlaff concluded.

Tariq Lamptey has explained why he took the decision to leave Chelsea after graduating through their academy system.

The 20-year-old defender did see competitive minutes during his time at Stamford Bridge, making his debut in a London derby clash with Arsenal plus a further two outings during the 2019-20 campaign.

He was, however, to leave on the final day of the January transfer window and take on a new challenge at Brighton. That call was made with his contract at Chelsea running down and with no fresh terms about to be signed.

Lamptey has gone on to thrive at the Amex Stadium, with his obvious potential now benefiting Brighton.

He could have been pushing for recognition at a different Premier League club, but remains convinced that walking away from west London was the best decision for his promising career.

Explaining his move, Lamptey told 90min: “I'm an ambitious boy. I look at things and enjoy them in the moment, but the next day I'm looking to see what I need to improve on and how I can stay at that level. I'm always looking for a chance to play again, and that moment made me even more hungry. I'd had a taste of it and I wasn't going to let it go.

“I sat down with the coaches, family members and agents and thought about what's best for me. It was a really tough decision.

“Being at a club since the age of nine, going up through the whole system and making your first-team debut, everything happened so quickly, but I had to look at where I would get the most football and how I could take my game to the next level.

“It wasn't an easy decision. I thought about it every day. But the opportunity came for me to come to Brighton, which is a fantastic club with a really good plan for the team, and the move made a lot of sense.

“There was quite a few options to go to, but I sat down with my family and talked about where would be best for me, where could help me develop, and I thought Brighton would be the best club for me.”

Lamptey’s stock has soared since he linked up with the Seagulls, with it now being suggested that his efforts are drawing admiring glances from leading sides across Europe. Bayern Munich are reported to be among his many suitors.

Harambee Stars head coach Jacob 'Ghost' Mulee has lauded the Comoros defense for their resolute defending in the 1-1 draw. 

Despite being a man down for the better part of the game, the Islanders battled to a draw and went on to get a point.

In the Wednesday game played at Kasarani Stadium, M'changama Youssouf put Comoros ahead from a free-kick which was expertly taken, wrong-footing Arnold Origi in the Kenya goal, but Masoud Juma equalised for Harambee Stars in the second half.

"We lacked composure in front of the goal and ended up missing the chances we created," Ghost told Goal after the match.

"Comoros also defended with zeal, they had eight players behind the ball and it was hard for us to break their defense. In the end, it worked for them because they managed to get a point away."

Kasarani's playing surface was not good owing to the rains experienced in Nairobi and at some point, it was tough for the players. However, the 52-year-old states that is not an excuse for his team not to get maximum points at home.

"I cannot blame the pitch for our draw because Comoros played on the same pitch," Mulee added.

"Let us now see how Togo and Egypt play [in Group G] and try our best to get a positive result at Moroni. We still have a chance to qualify in the Africa Cup of Nations because the race is tight. 

"Only a point or two separate the teams in the group so there is a big chance of us making it to the next stage.

"But we are expecting a very tough game away, but we are optimistic of getting maximum points."

The tactician has also commented on the absence of Kashiwa Reysol striker Michael Olunga who missed the game.

"Masoud Juma has played well despite being unattached, we brought him in the game hoping he will score and he has not disappointed," Ghost continued.

"But to be honest, we have missed Olunga in the game but there is nothing we could do owing to Covid-19 situation. We just have to do with the available players."

Rangers midfielder Joe Aribo has explained his desire to score in every game he plays for the Nigeria national team.

The 24-year-old will be expected to play a significant role when the Super Eagles take on the Leone Stars in an Africa Cup of Nations qualifying game on Friday.

Aribo has been delivering impressive performances for the West Africans since making a goalscoring debut against Ukraine in October 2019.

The versatile midfielder has now bagged two goals in four appearances for the three-time African champions.

Aribo missed Nigeria’s friendlies against Algeria and Tunisia in October due to injury problems but having rejoined the side, he hopes to continue his impressive showings for Gernot Rohr’s men.

"I'm enjoying it here in Benin. It's very overwhelming and I'm happy to see that the fans are here with us and they're supporting us so it's a good feeling," Aribo told Super Eagles media.

"I bring energy, I want to play fast and just make it hard for my opponent and win the game of course".

"Hopefully by God's grace, that's the aim, I want to score goals every single game I play but I want to just do all I can for the team to get the result that we can get".

Nigeria are leading Group L with six points from two games after victories over the Republic of Benin and Lesotho.

The return fixture will be played in Freetown on November 17 and victories in the games for the Super Eagles could see them secure a place in the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations in Cameroon.

Nigeria finished third at the last edition of the continental tournament in Egypt, with Algeria and Senegal beating them to the gold and silver medals.

John Barnes has questioned whether Kylian Mbappe would be as productive as Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane, should Liverpool look to sign the Paris Saint-Germain star.

The reigning Premier League champions are back in the market for the “best players in the world”.

Barnes is delighted to see that, but is eager to point out that any future additions must be judged on value, not name.

Liverpool have followed that approach in recent times and reaped the rewards.

It could be that they do dip into the market for Jadon Sancho or Mbappe if either become available at Borussia Dortmund and PSG, but Barnes is not convinced that superstar forwards are what the Reds need right now.

He told PlayOJO: “Liverpool now can attract the best players in the world. The kind of guys that we should be attracting are going to have to fit into the Liverpool philosophy, which means selflessness, humility, working for the team.

“No matter how good you are, Klopp will be looking at if you're willing to come and work for the team and not feel superior to your team-mates.

“I'm looking at Sancho and Mbappe in particular thinking; are they the right characters for Liverpool?

“Maybe Sancho is, I don't necessarily know him but he seems to be a level-headed boy. Mbappe I don't know, he's a very talented player. But is he going to work the way Mane and Salah works defensively? I don't know.

“I think Timo Werner would have been ideally suited to us but I think he wanted guaranteed first-team football every single week, which he wouldn't necessarily get at Liverpool, so that's probably why didn't come.”

Liverpool’s dealings in the last two windows have seen them unearth more gems, with Barnes saluting the recruitment of a team that is chasing down honours across multiple fronts once again in 2020-21.

He added: “Thiago and [Diogo] Jota were fantastic signings alongside [Takumi] Minamino, who was also a good signing.

“Those three are players who you want to come into the squad should anyone get injured. For two, three weeks they can come in, and they can maintain that momentum and the consistency.

“I think Jota and Thiago can play for six, seven months in the first team and they can continue to make Liverpool win games and play consistently well, which is what you want.

“Because I think of the past, not just Liverpool, but a lot of Premier League sides, spend £100 million on five players, but they don’t improve. 

“Whereas with those two signings, if one of the front three gets injured, Jota can go in and do equally as well. Thiago can play in the midfield three and actually bring something in terms of flair and creativity as well.

“It gives us not just a balance, but it gives us alternatives and it gives us the same level of consistency. So those two signings have been fantastic.”

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has responded to Toni Kroos's criticisms about the mask celebrations he has performed in the past, insisting that he will continue to do them as they make children happy.

The Arsenal forward has been known to mix up his goal celebrations, with the Gabonese having donned a Spiderman mask after scoring during his time with both Saint-Etienne and Dortmund.

Aubameyang also celebrated a goal for Arsenal in the Europa League in 2019 by putting on a Black Panther mask.

Raul Jimenez has also put on a mask as part of a goal celebration, with the Wolves striker performing a WWE tribute after his goal in a 3-2 FA Cup semi-final defeat to Watford in 2019.

Indeed, players have been creating their own celebration tributes and routines for years, with Barcelona forward Antoine Griezmann having simulated dance moves from the video game Fortnite in the past.

Real Madrid midfielder and Germany international Kroos has been less than impressed with what he has seen from his fellow professionals, branding the decision to come up with pre-planned celebrations "very silly".

Speaking on his Einfach mal Luppen podcast, Kroos had said: "I find it (choreographed celebrations) very silly. Even worse is if there are any objects hidden in their socks. Aubameyang once celebrated and took out a mask. That's where it ends with me. I don't think that's a good role model, either. What nonsense."

Aubameyang was not happy with Kroos's comments, issuing a response on social media defending his decision to celebrate with a mask, insisting he does it to bring a smile to the faces of children who follow football.

The 31-year-old wrote on social media: "By the way - does this Toni Kroos have kids? Just remember, I did it for my son a few times and I will do it again. I wish you have kids one day and make them happy like this junior school pupil. And don’t forget #maskon #staysafe."

The Twitter post was accompanied by an image of a picture of Aubameyang as a superhero that had been drawn by a child, who had seemingly been set a school assignment to convey what "happiness" meant for them.

Second-half substitute Halid Lwaliwa struck late to ensure Uganda picked up a 1-0 win over South Sudan in their Africa Cup of Nations qualifier on Thursday at St Mary’s Stadium, Kitende.

South Sudan were destined for what could have been their first point in Group B, but Lwaliwa’s 86th-minute goal denied them the point despite a strong performance against the hosts.

The Bright Stars surprisingly kept Uganda at bay for the entire first-half despite the fact Johnathan McKinstry deployed a possible strong side to face the northern neighbours.

Peter Maker, Mutwaki Abdelkarim, Rehan Angier, and Omot Sebit looked more composed at the back and managed to deal with the persistent attacks engineered by Uganda’s quartet of Farouk Miya, Kizito Luwaga, Emmanual Okwi and Derrick Nsibambi.

Uganda would have taken a 12th-minute lead but Angier stopped Smouha SC’s Nsibambi just outside the box resulting in a free-kick. Joseph Ochaya took the resultant set piece but his effort was cleared by the Bright Stars’ wall.

McKinstry made his first change at the hour mark when he withdrew Okwi and his place was filled by youngster Allan Okello. The Paradou AC forward added power and a greater cutting edge to Uganda’s side that had previously looked blunt and wasted a number of open chances.

McKinstry’s decision to throw Lwaliwa into action paid big as the Vipers SC captain scored the goal that ended up separating the Cranes from the hard-fighting Bright Stars.

With the slim win, Uganda now have seven points and have taken huge strides towards a third straight Afcon qualification.

Uganda did not take part in any friendly during the previous Fifa break and instead chose to take a trip to Dubai for a 10-day training camp.

South Sudan, on the other hand, travelled to Cameroon and played the former African champions twice where they drew in both encounters.

As their search for a maiden Afcon qualification continues, the Bright Stars can take some encouragement from how they largely neutralised the Cranes, who rank 86 places ahead of them in the Fifa World Rankings.

The return leg will be played on November 16 at the Nyayo Stadium, Nairobi, and it will be another chance for coach Ashu Cyprian to hunt for a first group point.

Uganda Starting XI: Denis Onyango, Elvis Bwomono, Joseph Ochaya, Ronald Mukiibi, Timothy Denis Awany, Mike Azira, Khalid Aucho, Farouk Miya, William Kizito Luwagga, Derrick Nsibambi, Emmanuel Okwi.

South Sudan Starting XI: Ramadan John, Peter Maker, Mutwaki Abdelkarim, Rehan Angier, Omot Sebit, Jackson Obede, Manyumow Achol, Stephen Pawaar, Makueth Wol, Wani Ivan, Tito Okello.

Premier Soccer League (PSL) club Stellenbosch FC have announced the signing of former Nigeria under-23 international Stanley Dimgba.

The 27-year-old player has joined Stellies from Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL) giants Enyimba FC. 

The Western Cape-based outfit confirmed Dimgba's arrival on the club's official Twitter page on Thursday. 

"Stellenbosch FC is delighted to announce its latest acquisition: Stanley Dimgba Sopuruchi," a club statement read.

"The Nigerian International joins the club on a long-term basis [and he is] ready to make his mark on the PSL."

Dimgba, who can also operate as a right-winger, was one of Enyimba's key players as they challenged for the 2019/20 NPFL title.

However, the league season was cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic in July 2020.

The well-travelled player was also very influential for the Aba Warriors in the 2019/20 CAF Confederation Cup.

His four goals in the continental tournament helped Enyimba reach the quarter-finals where they were eliminated by Guinean giants AC Horoya. 

Dimgba has played for Sunshine Stars, Warri Wolves, Kwara United and Plateau United in his home country, Nigeria.

The lethal forward was part of the Nigeria squad at the 2015 Caf Under-23 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) finals in Senegal.

Dimgba has become Stellenbosch's sixth signing in the current transfer window as they look to retain their status in the elite league. 

Phathutshedzo Nange (Tshakhuma Tsha Madzivhandila), Junior Leandro Mendieta (Atletico Rafaela, Argentina), Sage Stephens (Cape Town City), Zitha Macheke and Solly Khunyedi (both Bidvest Wits) have all joined Stellies. 

Dimgba will be hoping to make his debut for Stellies when they take on Chippa United in a PSL match at Danie Craven Stadium in Stellenbosch on November 21.

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After almost a year without competitive African international football, the Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign resumes this week with a series of tantalising double-headers across the continent this week.

Naturally, the qualifiers get the full African Football HQ treatment on the podcast this week, as Ed Dove and Malek Shafei pick out their matches to watch, players with a point to prove, potential giant-killings and some of the outside choices for the title itself.

Nigeria’s game against Sierra Leone is understandably one of the big attractions of the international break, as the Super Eagles look to bounce back following disappointing international break last time around.

Obviously, they’ll be facing lesser opponents than the Algeria side who outclassed the West African giants last month, and Gernot Rohr will be boosted by the returns of Joe Aribo, Oghenekaro Etebo and Victor Osimhen, all of whom missed the October break.

Ghana also welcome some returnees back to the fold, with Harrison Afful, John Boye and Abdul Rahman Baba among some of the familiar faces to come back into the Black Stars set-up.

Dove highlights Baba as one of the player to watch during the international break.

The Chelsea left-back—yes, he’s still at the Stamford Bridge heavyweights—has endured a miserable time with injuries since the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations when he was injured on the dire turf of Port Gentil.

Various subsequent loan moves haven’t truly worked out, and Baba remains at Chelsea, unwanted and un-used.

Still, for some reason, C.K. Akonnor decided that the wideman could still have a role to play for the national side—despite some concern back home—but what kind of impact can he have in their double-header against Sudan?

We also focus on the Ivory Coast’s meetings with Madagascar.

The islanders were the surprise package of the 2019 Afcon campaign, first securing a maiden qualification and then defeating Nigeria en route to the quarter-finals.

They certainly have it in their arsenal to down the Elephants, who have already dropped valuable points in their surprise loss against Ethiopia a year ago; but will the 2015 champions be the biggest side to miss out on the biennial showpiece.

Shafei is confident that they’ll make the cut, and believes that, with the likes of Nicolas Pepe, Wilfried Zaha, Maxwel Cornet, Gervinho, Christian Kouame and Jeremie Boga, they might have the most exciting roster in the continent.

Add to that West Ham United striker Sebastien Haller, who’s set to make his debut against Madagascar, and the Elephants have an irresistible strength in depth.

The German federation has admitted defeat in its bid to persuade Bayern Munich’s Jamal Musiala to represent the country instead of England.

Both England and Germany have been vying to secure the services of the 17-year-old midfielder, with the former in pole position after Musiala elected to link up with the England Under-21 squad.

Musiala is poised to make his England U21 debut in Friday’s game with Andorra at Wolves’ Molineux ground.

Playing for the England U21s would not prevent him from switching allegiances to Germany in the future, but it appears the DFB has given up hope of that happening.

“Due to his DFB past, of course, we dealt with Jamal Musiala and showed him what the DFB has to offer,” DFB head of academy coaching Meikel Schonweitz told Sport 1. “However, he has clearly signaled to us that he currently sees his future with the English national teams.

“We accept his decision and wish him all the best for his sporting career.”

Musiala has kept his options open throughout his teenage years, as he has represented England at the U15 level and Germany at U16 level.

It did appear that Germany had moved into pole position for Musiala when Bayern signed him from Chelsea in the summer of 2019, but he has elected to try his luck with England.

Musiala came through the academy at Chelsea, but he followed the likes of Jadon Sancho and Jude Bellingham by attempting to forge a professional career in the Bundesliga by signing for Bayern.

The DFB rate Musiala extremely highly. Former U16 national coach Christian Wuck said to Goal and SPOX: "Of course we would have liked to keep a player with his potential with us. But he and his mother decided to go to England because he already knew the people and the environment there better.

"We accept this opinion and wish him all the best in his sporting path."

Germany’s loss could be England’s gain, as Musiala is already making waves with Bayern as he has two goals to his name from eight senior appearances this season.

After the international break, Bayern face Werder Bremen in the Bundesliga.

Billy Gilmour has given an update on his recovery from injury while vowing to fight for a place in Frank Lampard's Chelsea squad.

Gilmour enjoyed an impressive breakout campaign at Stamford Bridge in 2019-20, having made his way through the club's youth ranks after arriving from Rangers in 2017.

Lampard thrust the 18-year-old onto the senior stage, and he put in man of the match displays against Liverpool and Everton prior to the coronavirus lockdown in March, adapting to the pace and intensity of top-flight football with ease.

Gilmour made his 11th and final appearance of the season during a 3-2 win over Crystal Palace on July 7, but had to be withdrawn early after suffering a serious knee injury.

The Scotland international was forced to undergo an extensive rehabilitation programme and has been unavailable for selection at the start of the new campaign, but there finally appears to be some light at the end of the tunnel for the young playmaker.

He returned to training with the rest of the first-team squad earlier this month, and could be in line to make his return to action when Chelsea take in a trip to Newcastle on November 21.

Gilmour was also called up to Scotland's Under-21 squad for the latest round of international fixtures, and told reporters of the progress he is making ahead of a European Championship qualifier against Croatia Thursday: "It wasn’t the best timing but the recovery has been going well.

"It’s amazing to be back with the squad. I’ve been out for a long time so I can’t wait to get back and try to help the team qualify. For us, it’s been a long time since an Under-21 team has qualified but we have two games where we have a really good chance of making some history."

Gilmour will look to force his way back into Lampard's plans when he returns to Chelsea next week, but acknowledges the fact there is now increased competition for places at the Bridge following a major summer overhaul.

"I’m enjoying it. It’s a great experience and great for my development to play with these world-class players. There’s so many trophies in there and I’m learning every day," he added.

"It’s nice to get recognised for the good stuff. I’m going to keep working hard and continuing my form once I’m back from my injury.

"It’s going to be a hard team to get into but hopefully, I’ll get more game time and experience."

APR head coach Mohamed Erradi Adil has stated his players will have no excuse but to work hard and overcome Gor Mahia in the Caf Champions League.

The Rwandan champions landed their Kenyan counterparts as the opponents in the preliminary round after a draw that was done by Caf on November 9.

The Moroccan tactician, who is aware of the experience Gor Mahia have earned in the continent’s premier tournament, claims they will have to work extra hard in order to achieve their dream of progressing further.

“We want to reach far in the competition, so we have to be ready for the two matches [against Gor Mahia],” Adil told The New Times.

“We will do everything possible to advance to the next round.

“Gor Mahia are a tough team, and probably more experienced in the Champions League. The challenge ahead is not going to be easy, but there will be no excuse or shortcut.

“We have to work for the result we all want.”

APR won their 18th Premier League title – and consequently earned the right to participate in the Champions League – after Ferwafa ended the 2019/20 season mid this year due to the coronavirus.

Before the season was suspended and later cancelled, the army side was unbeaten.

The Rwandan giants will face Gor Mahia now under Oliveira ‘Robertinho’ Goncalves who previously worked with Rayon Sports.

Since his appointment, Robertinho has insisted his main aim is to apply an attacking kind of football which will help him take K’Ogalo far especially on the continental front.

“I like an attacking kind of football. Look at Raja Casablanca and Esperance. They never play behind. Why? What is the secret in football?” the Brazilian quipped in an earlier interview.

“It is simple, to score goals and get the victory. Possession football is important but again it is good when done in the attacking half.

“That is my style of football and I give support to everyone, to create, dribble, and express their talent. The talent is there that is why you signed for Gor Mahia, a big club.”

The winner between Gor Mahia and APR will face the winning side between CR Belouizdad of Algeria and Libya’s El Nasr in the first round.

The first leg will be played between November 27-29 in Kigali while the return leg has been scheduled for a week later.