Hard truths. Bold Insights. Real talk.
In Group C, South Africa took advantage of Benin's loss to Nigeria to leapfrog into first, with the Super Eagles soaring into second. Côte d'Ivoire left no doubt in downing Kenya to clinch Group F, while Senegal ran rampant at home against Mauritania to sew up Group B.
Manchester United forward Amad Diallo cut inside his marker and sent a gorgeous pass into Franck Kessie, who took it in his stride and fired home for Emerson Fae’s men early on, to rapturous applause from a now party like crowd at the stadium. The excellent Yan Diomende made it two, before Diallo put the result to bed late on.
Senegal, leading Group B with a two-point advantage over DR Congo, will look to seal the deal against Mauritania. Meanwhile, Ivory Coast must not slip up against Kenya to secure their group win. The suspense is also at its peak in Group C, where three teams are still in the running for qualification: Benin (17 pts), South Africa (15 pts), and Nigeria (14 pts).
“Most teams that play against us defend deep,” he said. “But we believe the best form of defence is attack. We’ll start strong, apply pressure, and show that we’re at home. The fans will push us, and that energy will help us impose our rhythm.”
The trio’s nominations reflect their stellar performances this season in distance and middle-distance running, further solidifying Kenya’s reputation on the global stage.
Ángel Di María returned to Rosario Central in July after 18 years in Europe and immediately transformed the team.
Bright revealed her decision on her podcast The Rest is Football: Daly Brightness, citing personal reflection, physical recovery, and a desire to prioritize club football and personal wellbeing.
The remarkable qualification of Cape Verde came after they made a disappointing start to the 10-match campaign, drawing 0-0 at home with Angola and slumping to a 4-1 loss in Cameroon.
“He can be one of the best in the world,” Tuchel declared, praising Rashford’s explosive pace, aerial strength, and ambidextrous finishing. “But the numbers don’t match the potential. He knows that from me.”
UEFA reluctantly approved the match, citing the absence of legal grounds to block it.
The 26-year-old midfielder was substituted in the first half of that match, and Arsenal later confirmed he would miss the current international window.
The Elephants have won seven of their nine matches in the campaign, with the only blemishes being goalless draws against Kenya and Gabon on matchdays three and seven respectively.