Africa Cup of Nations

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      Nigeria vs Egypt LIVE REACTION: Mo Salah’s Egypt off to losing start in AFCON after Iheanacho stunner – latest updates

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      MO SALAH’S Egypt have been defeated in their AFCON opener by Nigeria 1-0 after a stunner from Leicester’s Kelechi Iheanacho.The Foxes striker lashed home the only goal of the game after 30 mins as Egypt – the most decorated team in Africa Cup of Nations history – failed to impress in Cameroon.

      Result: Nigeria 1-0 Egypt
      Egypt XI: El Shenawy; Hegazy, Hamdy, Fathi; Tawfik, Mohamed, Elneny, Fattoh; Trezeguet, Salah, Marmoush.
      Nigeria XI: Okoye; Aina, Troost-Ekong, Omeruo, Sanusi; Ndidi, Aribo, Iheanacho; Chukwueze, Awoniyi, Simon.

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      Nigeria 1-0 Egypt
      Leicester fan Gary Lineker hailing Kelechi Iheanacho for his goal this afternoon.

      Nigeria 1-0 Egypt
      Kelechi Iheanacho has now scored 12 goals in 39 games for his country.
      However, today was his first in a major competition for Nigeria. Important.
      Nigeria 1-0 Egypt
      Egypt’s remaining group games. They are now huge in their bid to qualify for the knockout stages.

      Nigeria 1-0 Egypt
      Super Eagles soaring.

      Nigeria 1-0 Egypt
      The final match of today sees the other two sides in Group D face off as Guinea-Bissau take on Sudan.
      Neither side will be expecting to go through given Nigeria and Egypt are in with them. But a win for either side will pile the pressure on Egypt following their defeat today.
      Guinea-Bissau vs Sudan (7pm GMT)
      Nigeria 1-0 Egypt
      A reminder of the winning goal this afternoon.
      What a strike it was from Leicester and Nigeria marksman Kelechi Iheanacho.

      Nigeria 1-0 Egypt
      Not his finest hour.
      Salah had one big change for Egypt today but was thwarted by the legs of keeper Okoye.
      He’ll need to pick himself up and go again when Egypt take on Guinea-Bissau on Saturday.
      Credit: AFP
      Nigeria 1-0 Egypt
      Worth remembering that is Egypt’s first Africa Cup of Nations group stage defeat for 17 years!
      Some performance from Nigeria to end a run like that.
      Nigeria 1-0 Egypt
      Nigeria kicking off their campaign in winning style. A day to forget for Mohamed Salah.

      FULL-TIME: Nigeria 1-0 Egypt
      That’s it! Nigeria upset Egypt in the opening game of Group D. Kelechi Iheanacho’s first half strike proves enough to hand them all three points!
      A superb display from the Super Eagles! Torrid stuff from Egypt.
      Nigeria 1-0 Egypt
      90+3 mins: Nigeria almost seal the victory! Ejuke uses his pace to fly past his marker but El Shenawy is equal to it!
      Corner to Nigeria. They will run the clock down here.
      Nigeria 1-0 Egypt
      90+2 mins: We are halfway through four stoppage time minutes.
      The ball drops to Salah on the edge of the box but it’s nicked away from him as he looks to burst beyond Troost-Ekong.
      Salah then drifts out to the left and chips a dangerous-looking cross into the six-yard box but no-one is there.
      Nigeria 1-0 Egypt
      90+1 mins: Everton’s Alex Iwobi comes in for the last moments. He replaces Moses Simon – probably my Player of the Match. Tormented the Egyptian defence all afternoon.
      Nigeria 1-0 Egypt
      90 mins: Ashraf’s cross is deflected out for an Egypt corner.
      Mohamed Sherif is on for Egypt as he replaces hamdy. One final roll of the dice.
      The corner comes to nothing. Another minute ticks down.
      Nigeria 1-0 Egypt
      88 mins: Egypt send a throw into the box and it finds its way to Salah. He holds it up but there are four Nigerian shirts circled around him and eventually he relinquishes possession.
      Not been Salah’s day. Not been Egypt’s day.
      Nigeria 1-0 Egypt
      86 mins: Nigeria do not look phased heading into the final stages of this one. They are not hanging on. They are not running down the clock. They are simply staying in their defensive block and breaking out when they win the ball.
      No real concerted pressure from Carlos Queiroz’s Egypt side.
      Nigeria 1-0 Egypt
      84 mins: Egypt have a corner which is floated to the back post when Hegazy waits.
      He controls the ball and sends a looping cross in. It looks for a moment as if it’s going to look Okoye but ends up on the roof of the net!
      A tame effort but probably about as close as Egypt have come in the last 20 minutes.
      Nigeria 1-0 Egypt
      Here was Iheanacho missing the chance to score a second of the game.

      Nigeria 1-0 Egypt
      82 mins: Ajayi runs straight over to mark Mohamed Salah.
      Meanwhile, a VAR penalty check takes a little while to decide that Egypt are not deserving of one. Monem went down but there was very little contact.
      Eight minutes of normal time remain. There is little in the way of Egypt pressure.
      Nigeria 1-0 Egypt
      80 mins: SUB! Another sub for Nigeria. The goalscorer Iheanacho is replaced by Kelechi Nwakali.
      Nigeria 1-0 Egypt
      80 mins: SUB! Not good news for Nigeria. Omeruo has been stretchered off here. Not clear what happened but it was in the melay from that scrappy corner.
      West Brom defender Semi Ajayi is on as his replacement.
      Nigeria 1-0 Egypt
      78 mins: Another chance for Nigeria! Chidera Ejuke has only come on for Chukwueze seconds ago and he nearly makes an instant impact!
      He drives down the right before rifling a shot into the midriff of El Shenawy.
      Nigeria look for likely to get a second than Egypt are to equalise.
      Nigeria 1-0 Egypt
      76 mins: Egypt have made four of their five changes. Mo Salah has had a good opportunity. Is it just not their day?
      You have to say Nigeria have undoubtedly been the better side.
      Nigeria 1-0 Egypt
      74 mins: Iheanacho bursts into the left channel but the pass is a little beyond him. Nigeria corner.
      Simon delivers it and El Shenawy misses it! It’s half cleared by Egypt before they eventually scramble it away.
      Nigeria 1-0 Egypt
      72 mins: OH THAT WAS THE CHANCE FOR SALAH!
      He times his run brilliantly and Monem finds him in between the centre-halves. It’s stuck under his feet a little but he still manages to get the shot off, only for the legs of Okoye to deny the Egypt captain.
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      Afcon viewers baffled by Egypt’s never-before-seen ‘5-5-0 formation’ against Nigeria in Salah and Co’s tournament opener

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      FOOTY fans were left BAFFLED after two broadcasters had Egypt down as playing an outrageous 5-5-0 formation for their African Cup of Nations opener.The Pharaohs kicked off their AFCON campaign this afternoon with a 1-0 defeat by Nigeria at the Roumde Adjia Stadium in Cameroon.
      Egypt kicked off their African Cup of Nations campaign against Nigeria on TuesdayCredit: BBC
      But Sky Sports bizarrely had the Pharaohs playing a 5-5-0 formationCredit: SKY SPORTS
      All was fine with the pre-match coverage, that was until BeIN and Sky Sports showed the north African side’s formation.
      Stunningly, the broadcasters showed Egyptians playing with two banks of five for their clash with the Super Eagles.
      And Twitter went into meltdown after seeing the formation.
      One fan tweeted: ‘Egypt playing a 5-5 formation?”
      Another said: “Interesting Egypt formation.”
      And another said: “I beg did anybody see that Egypt formation?
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      One remarked: “What the hell is that Egypt formation?”
      Another chimed in: “Egypt formation Game Plan: kick to Salah up front, he will see what to do!”
      As the game kicked off, it soon became apparent that Egypt chief Carlos Quieroz had not opted to use such an unconventional formation.
      But Liverpool superstar Salah was still hugely isolated up front in the defensive line-up.
      Former Manchester United No.2 Queiroz’s troops entered their clash with the Nigerians as one of the favourites to win the tournament.
      But their campaign got off to the worst possible start as Nigeria handed them an opening defeat thanks to a Kelechi Iheanacho screamer.
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      Carlos Quieroz’s Egypt are one of the favourites to lift the African Cup of Nations trophyCredit: AFP
      The Leicester forward produced a sublime piece of skill to control the ball and volley home from the edge of the box.
      Rangers star Joe Aribo provided a headed assist as he nodded the ball down to Iheanacho.
      And the Nigerian No.14 took a touch on his thigh before slamming home on the half-hour mark for the game’s only goal.
      Nigeria vs Egypt LIVE – Live stream, updates, action and reaction from tasty AFCON opener
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      Nigeria vs Egypt LIVE: Stream FREE, score, TV channel, kick-off time, team news – Mo Salah STARTS AFCON 2022 clash

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      MO SALAH’S Egypt kick off their AFCON 2022 campaign this afternoon against Nigeria in Cameroon.Egypt are the most decorated team in Africa Cup of Nations history, having won the tournament a record seven times.
      Although, they not won the competition since 2010.
      There is some Premier League interest in the Pharoahs manager too – former Manchester United assistant Carlos Quieroz.

      Kick-off: 4pm GMT
      TV/ live stream: Sky Sports Main Event, BBC Red Button/ iPlayer (free)
      Egypt XI: El Shenawy; Hegazy, Hamdy, Fathi; Tawfik, Mohamed, Elneny, Fattoh; Trezeguet, Salah, Marmoush.
      Nigeria XI: Okoye; Aina, Troost-Ekong, Omeruo, Sanusi; Ndidi, Aribo, Iheanacho; Chukwueze, Awoniyi, Simon.

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      Follow ALL of the latest updates below…
      Nigeria 0-0 Egypt
      8 mins: Tawsik is still down and receiving treatment. He didn’t actually go down from a foul, he simply got twisted up when Simon checked back inside onto his right foot.
      He’s back to his feet now but then goes off the pitch to receive some more treatment. Not sure he will be able to continue. We shall see.
      Play resumes.
      Nigeria 0-0 Egypt
      6 mins: Egypt break forward with pace as Mohamed drives down the right-hand side before letting fly from a tight angle. It’s a comfortable save for Rotterdam keeper Okoye but we’ve had our first shot on goal of the match.
      Salah then gets his first touch of the ball inside his own half before Tawfik wins a free-kick for Egypt. And he’s not getting up…
      Nigeria 0-0 Egypt
      4 mins: Troost-Ekong tries a direct ball over the top for Awoniyi but it’s cut out by Hegazy on the stretch.
      Awoniyi then pinches it away from Sanusi and looks to drive into the box but he can’t quite get control of the ball and eventually Egypt win a free-kick.
      Nigeria 0-0 Egypt
      2 mins: A very enjoyable punt into touch from kick-off by Egypt. Proper rugby stuff.
      Early possession for Egypt as they feel their way into the game. Egypt in red shirts and white shorts. Nigeria in a dark blue/black shirt and dark shorts.
      KICK-OFF: Nigeria 0-0 Egypt
      1 min: Here we go then!
      Can Nigeria end Egypt’s 17-year unbeaten run in the Africa Cup of Nations group stages?
      Nigeria vs Egypt
      The warm-ups are all done. Nigeria coach Augustine Eguavoen and Egypt manager Carlos Queiroz will be giving their final words of encouragement.
      It’s almost time for the start of Nigeria and Egypt’s Africa Cup of Nations campaigns!
      Nigeria vs Egypt
      Right, so one more reminder of the teams 10 minutes before we get underway. Let’s show you in a more visual way this time…

      Nigeria captain Musa on opening game
      Nigeria captain Ahmed Musa – who has 103 caps for his country – remains confident despite his side being the underdogs against Egypt.
      Speaking ahead of the game, he said: “We consider that we are ready.
      “We are just waiting for tomorrow and hopefully we are going to end up until the final and win the cup.”
      Nigeria vs Egypt
      Less than 20 minutes until kick-off, who else is excited for this one?
      Two of Africa’s biggest sides go head to head in a mouthwatering group stage clash.
      Elneny a stalwart for Egypt
      Enough chat about Mo Salah, Mohamed Elneny actually has nine more caps for his country than the Liverpool forward.
      The Arsenal man will earn his 85th cap for his country today as he bids to command the midfield alongside Mostafa Mohamed.
      No player starting the game has more international experience than Elneny. Nigeria’s Ahmed Musa is the only player in either squad with more caps – 103.
      Nigeria vs Egypt – Iheanacho in midfield?!
      There’s a real clash of styles going on when it comes to how the two sides have lined up.
      The way the team sheets have come out indicate Nigeria will be playing a 4-3-3, while Egypt seem to have gone with a 3-4-2-1.
      Kelechi Iheanacho has been put on the right of a midfield three for Nigeria – a rather bizarre move if you ask me.
      Mo Salah is in his usual position off the right-hand side of the striker.
      Nigeria without Ighalo and Dennis
      Worth remembering that Odion Ighalo and Emmanuel Dennis have both not joined up with the Nigeria squad for the tournament.
      Dennis, in particular, has been in sensational form for Watford so far this season.
      But Nigeria accused the Hornets of ‘baring fangs’ after it was confirmed he would not be a part of the national team squad for the Cup of Nations.
      Salah on Nigeria
      Mo Salah is well aware of the threat Nigeria pose to Egypt this afternoon.
      Speaking ahead of the match, he said: “I think they (Nigeria) are a dangerous team.
      “I don’t think we are the favourites (to win) this tournament, but we do our best to win it.
      “We have a good coach, a good team, a very good group.”
      Mo Salah in the house
      Mo Salah is raring to go ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations. Can Nigeria stop him in his tracks today?
      Credit: AFP
      Egypt team to play Nigeria
      Egypt XI (3-4-2-1): El Shenawy; Hegazy, Hamdy, Fathi; Tawfik, Mohamed, Elneny, Fattoh; Trezeguet, Salah, Marmoush.
      Subs: Monem, Wahed, Ashour, Sherif, Sobhi, Ashraf, Lasheen, Said, Alaa, Sayed, Sobhy, Gad.
      Nigeria team to play Egypt
      Nigeria XI (4-3-3): Okoye; Aina, Troost-Ekong, Omeruo, Sanusi; Ndidi, Aribo, Iheanacho; Chukwueze, Awoniyi, Simon.
      Subs: Ajayi, Musa, Onyeka, Onyekuru, Ejuke, Akpeyi, Iwobi, Ebuehi, Uzoho, Sadiq, Nwakali, Ndah.
      Algeria 0-0 Sierra Leone
      We’ve had our first goalless draw of the tournament and thank the lord it’s not a game I’m covering!
      Pre-tournament favourites Algeria have been held by Sierra Leone in their opening group game of the Africa Cup of Nations. Bit of a surprise, that one.
      None of the games have seen more than one goal since Cameroon beat Burkina Faso in the opener on Sunday.
      Mark my words: that is changing in this next game.
      Mo Salah: Egypt’s golden boy
      Mohamed Salah is not just Liverpool’s superstar forward – he is also the Egypt national team’s talisman.
      The 29-year-old has scored 45 goals in 73 appearances for his country – a remarkable return.
      No one would bet against him adding to that tally today.
      Who will win the tournament?
      So, the two sides today will both be hoping they can lift the trophy at the end of the Africa Cup of Nations.
      But who are the favourites?
      Here are the current odds:

      Senegal 10/3
      Algeria 4/1
      Egypt 8/1
      Ivory Coast 8/1
      Cameroon 8/1
      Morocco 9/1
      Nigeria 12/1
      Ghana 20/1
      Tunisia 20/1

      English-based players in Egypt
      And here are the Egypt internationals who play their club football in England.

      Trezeguet (Aston Villa)
      Mohamed Elneny (Arsenal)
      Mohamed Salah (Egypt)

      English-based players in Nigeria’s squad
      Who will English fans know from the Nigeria squad? Here are those who play their club football in England.

      William Troost-Ekong (Watford)
      Semi Ajayi (West Brom)
      Alex Iwobi (Everton)
      Wilfred Ndidi (Leicester)
      Frank Onyeka (Brentford)
      Kelechi Iheanacho (Leicester)

      Can Nigeria overcome Egypt hoodoo?
      Nigeria have actually beaten Egypt eight times and only lost five times in their head-to-head history.
      However, in recent times the Egyptians have undoubtedly got their African counterparts’ number.
      The nations have met three times at the Cup of Nations over the past 11 years – with Egypt winning twice and the other ending in a goalless draw.
      Nigeria have also scored just one goal against Egypt at the AFCON since 1990.
      Good afternoon AFCON fans
      Welcome or welcome back to coverage of the Africa Cup of Nations!
      We are now a few days into the tournament and beginning to get a feel for how each team could fair when it comes down to the latter stages.
      Yesterday, I was on Morocco vs Ghana duties and, I’ll be honest, it wasn’t a classic. We did get one goal as Sofiane Boufal handed Morocco the victory late on. But other than that it was one to forget.
      However, today we have a mouthwatering prospect coming up in a little over an hour as Nigeria and Egypt clash in their AFCON opener.
      It’s the Mo Salah vs Kelechi Iheanacho derby. Bring it on!
      Load more entries… More

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      Algeria 0 Sierra Leone 0 LIVE REACTION: AFCON champions fail to impress in drab opening group game – latest updates

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      ALGERIA drew 0-0 with Sierra Leone in their opening group game in Daoula and failed to impress as they set out to defend their AFCON crown.
      RESULT: Algeria 0-0 Sierra Leone
      Algeria XI: M’Bohli; Atal, Bedrane, Mandi, Bensebaini; Brahimi, Belkebla, Feghouli; Mahrez, Belaili, Slimani
      Sierra Leone XI: M.Kamara; Kakay, Wright, Caulker, Zangalay, J.Kamara; Quee, K.Kamara, Bundu; Buya, A.Kamara

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      Follow ALL the action with our live blog below…
      Thanks for joining us!
      That’s all we’ve got time for following a famous point for Sierra Leone.
      Next up we see two of the big guns.
      Join us here for all of the action from Egypt vs Nigeria!
      Rudi good show
      Chelsea star Antonio Rudiger was a keen viewer as Sierra Leone held Algeria to a 0-0 draw.
      The Germany international’s mother Lily was born in the country, and he would have especially enjoyed Steven Caulker’s block which prevented the Algerians netting a near-open goal.

      Man of the Match
      Sierra Leone goalkeeper Mohamed Kamara has been named as Man of the Match.
      The 22-year-old is still playing in his own country with East End Lions, but if he keeps playing to this standard he will have a great chance of earning a move.
      In a Manuel Neuer-like display, Kamara repeatedly charged out of his area, winning header after header and showing total confidence in his game.

      Unbelievable Jeff!
      Chris Kamara was thoroughly enjoying a hard earned point for his father’s country.
      The Soccer Saturday legend revealed he had the chance to play for Sierra Leone himself, but waited for an England call-up which never came.

      Kei rallies the troops
      A rousing speech from Kei Kamara as the Sierra Leone team form a huddle at the end of the game.
      The former Norwich and Middlesbrough defender tells his team-mates: “That’s what it’s all about!”
      Sierra Leone bag a point
      The Sierra Leone players celebrate wildly in front of their fans after earning a crucial point.
      Algeria looked like they might steal it at the death with a free header but Kamara held on once again.
      In the dying minutes, the Algerians looked like they were the only team capable of winning it. However, Sierra Leone were good value for the draw.
      Algeria can look back on a hatful of chances missed in the second half, but also at an anaemic first 45 minutes in which their opponents were the better team despite not qualifying for the tournament for 25 years.
      FULL TIME: Algeria 0 Sierra Leone 0
      90+1: Algeria 0 Sierra Leone 0
      Left-back Rensebaini looks to take matters into his own hands and beats his man on the wing.
      However, he comfortably fires into the arms of Mohamad Kamara, who has had a fantastic game tonight.
      89: Algeria 0 Sierra Leone 0
      Sierra Leone looked like they were about to nick it.
      A quick free kick puts their player clean through on goal, but the referee pulls it back and tells them to wait for the whistle.
      Three minutes added on.
      87: Algeria 0 Sierra Leone 0
      A quick free kick finds Baghdad Bounedjah unmarked.
      However he needlessly rushes the shot, attempts the lob and scuffs it into the arms of Kamara.
      85: Algeria 0 Sierra Leone 0
      Almost an immediate impact from Said Benrahma!
      He’s picked out completely unmarked on the penalty spot but scuffs inexplicably wide.
      The West Ham star will feel he should have done better.
      Sierra Leone are almost dead on their feet and desperate for the final whistle.
      83: Algeria 0 Sierra Leone 0
      Said Benrahma finally gets his chance to impress.
      He replaces Haris Belkleba as the Algerians make their fifth and final change.
      80: Algeria 0 Sierra Leone 0
      A first chance for Riyad Mahrez.
      Steven Caulker holds up the Algerian attack on the left hand side but a lofted cross finds the Man City star.
      Mahrez then fires low and forces a brilliant save from Mohamed Kamara.
      Hard to believe the Sierra Leone goalkeeper is still playing for local side East End Lions.
      73: Algeria 0 Sierra Leone 0
      Sierra Leone overcook their corner and Riyad Mahrez leads the counter-attack.
      He plays the ball to Belaili who beats his man in the penalty area then goes down clutching his ankle under the challenge.
      But the referee has no hesitation in pointing for a corner rather than a penalty.
      Replays show he probably dived.
      68: Algeria 0 Sierra Leone 0
      Algeria really turning the screw now.
      Goalkeeper Mohamed Kamara once again appearing to style himself as the Manuel Neuer of West Africa as he charges out of his box to win a header.
      The ball then falls to Riyad Mahrez but the Sierra Leone defence hold him up for just long enough for Kamara to get back into the penalty area and make the save.
      67: Algeria 0 Sierra Leone 0
      Algeria so close to a lead they scarcely deserve but Steven Caulker saves the day for Sierra Leone!
      Brilliant work on the left wing for the Algerians sets up Bendebka, who appears to have an open goal to shoot at.
      But Caulker gets a toe on it to send it wide.
      64: Algeria 0 Sierra Leone 0
      A triple change for Algeria sums up how Djamel Belmadi feels about his team’s performance.
      Brahimi is replaced by Bendebka, Slimani replaced by Bounedjah and Feghouli by Boulaya.
      A furious-looking Slimani tries to fire up the replacements as they come on.
      60: Algeria 0 Sierra Leone 0
      Another half chance for Brahimi, who has looked a lot livelier this half.
      The Porto winger beats his man on the left hand side of the pitch, cuts inside and fires directly at goalkeeper Kamara.
      51: Algeria 0 Sierra Leone 0
      The best chance of the game by far falls to Yacine Brahimi.
      The Algerian is played clean through on goal but fires the ball into the ground, allowing Kamara to get a palm on it and claim it at the second attempt.
      How badly will they regret that miss?
      48: Algeria 0 Sierra Leone 0
      Sierra Leone have the ball in the net for the first time today.
      Alhaji Kamara bundles it home before wildly celebrating with a knee slide….
      Which is a bit awkward as VAR shows he was offside by a huge distance.
      VAR check – Possible Sierra Leone goal!
      We’re underway in the second half!
      Up next
      Algeria will be desperate to improve here and pick up a win in the second half.
      The AFCON holders take on Equatorial Guinea next and will be keen to seal their place in the knockout stages before their final group match against the Ivory Coast.
      HALF TIME: Algeria 0 Sierra Leone 0
      It’s goalless at the break and it’s not Sierra Leone who are holding on.
      The West Africans have looked good on the break and completely dominated in the air, but just lacked the end product.
      Algeria have been far from their best and created little of note, but you feel they may have the greater ability to manufacture the crucial opportunity in the second half.
      The two teams are also playing at very different paces. Sierra Leone are looking to make it a full blooded street fight while Algeria are keen to slow the tempo down and turn it into a chess match.
      45+1: Algeria 0 Sierra Leone 0
      A good chance for Islam Slimani who picks up the ball on the edge of the box with the Sierra Leone defence all over the place.
      However, the goalkeeper is once again quick off the line to stop the shot with his leg.
      Load more entries… More

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      Mo Salah and Sadio Mane get armed guard protection at Afcon with even mascot wearing bulletproof vest over attack fears

      by

      ‘WORRIED’ football stars are being protected by armed guards at the Africa Cup of Nations.And even the official mascot – Mola the Lion – is wearing a bulletproof vest.
      Sadio Mane is one of the highest-profile footballers competing at the Africa Cup of NationsCredit: AFP
      Teams are being protected by armed security guards and soldiers throughout the tournament in CameroonCredit: Reuters
      The tight security measures are due to fears over attacks in Cameroon, where the continental tournament is being staged.
      A Premier League source told the Mirror: “The players are worried especially as threats have been made.
      “However, they have been ensured everything will be done to protect them with special forces ready to jump into action if there is any real threat or attack.
      “A lot of the players come from where there have been security problems, like Nigeria or Ivory Coast, so they are used to it.
      “They are proud to play for their countries so wouldn’t let the people down.”
      Senior security commander Engamba Ledoux said: “Measures are being put in place to ensure AFCON goes smoothly.”
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      FREE BETS: GET OVER £2,000 IN NEW CUSTOMER DEALS
      Forty Premier League aces – including Mo Salah, Sadio Mane, Riyad Mahrez and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang – are competing for their respective African nations.
      However, they are under strict restrictions which include a curfew while armoured vehicles patrol the streets to keep players and fans safe, as reported by the Mirror.
      Guards are also stationed at hotels and training grounds with soldiers in place at stadiums across the country.
      The 2010 tournament was overshadowed by the terrorist attack on Togo’s team bus in Angola.
      Emmanuel Adebayor was on the coach when gunmen opened fire as the bus driver, a journalist and Togo’s assistant manager were all killed.
      AFCON organisers, understandably, do not want a repeat of that tragedy.
      The threat of attack in Cameroon this year is real.
      An ongoing civil war between English-speaking rebels and the French-speaking government continues to cause devastation.
      In the four years of fighting, more than 3,000 people have been killed and 700,000 people forced to flee.
      ‘HORRIBLE SITUATION’
      There have been 80 bomb attacks in the last year – including one in the coastal town of Limbe last week and another that killed a five-year-old girl in her school classroom.
      Bombs also exploded near the stadium in Limbe during last year’s African Nations Championship.
      Islamic State terrorists and allies Boko Haram have control of large areas of northern Cameroon and there are concerns both sides will view AFCON matches as opportunities to strike.
      Human rights researcher Rebecca Tinsley added: “It is a horrible situation. The rebels are serious about attacks.”
      Brighton’s Yves Bissouma and Moussa Djenepo are both representing Mali in Limbe as they face Tunisia, Mauritania and Gambia in Group F.
      Non-essential travel to the town is advised against while the UK government warns people not to go to the northern regions.
      On the pitch, hosts Cameroon kicked off the tournament with a comeback 2-1 win over Burkina Faso.
      Mane held his nerve with a 97th-minute penalty to beat Zimbabwe 1-0 while Thomas Partey’s blunder ensured Ghana suffered defeat to Morocco in their Group C opener.
      Even mascot Mola the Lion is wearing a bulletproof vestCredit: Reuters More

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      Gabon 1 Comoros 0 LIVE REACTION: Aubameyang misses AFCON 2022 clash as Boupendza gives Gabon crucial three points

      by

      GABON made a winning start to their AFCON challenge with victory over Comoros.Talisman and Arsenal ex-captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang played no part in the win over his positive test for Covid-19 upon arrival at the tournament.
      A first half strike from Aaron Boupendza was enough to give Gabon their opening three points of the competition.

      TV channel/ live stream: Sky Sports Main Event, Football
      Gabon XI: Amonome, Mboumini, Manga, Obiang, Boupendza, Palun, Allevinah, Kaku, Autchanga, Poko, Nouang
      Comoros XI: Nadhoim, Kassim, Zahary, M’Changama, M’Dahoma, Abdullah, Youssouf, Youssouf, Mohamed, Bakari, Mohamed

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      Full-time: Gabon 1-0 Comoros
      That’s all from me as Gabon got their Group C campaign off to a winning, if unconvincing start.
      Thanks for joining me, and keep it SunSport for all things Afcon this month.
      Full-time: Gabon 1-0 Comoros
      Aaron Boupendza’s 16th minute goal came against the run of play for Gabon.
      And the Comoros continued to cause the Panthers problems as the match went on.
      But a slight lack of quality going forward saw them come just short on their Afcon debut, although they can hold their heads high.
      Gabon will have to play much better against Morocco and Ghana if they are to go through.
      Credit: AFP
      Full-time – Gabon 1-0 Comoros
      That’s it in Yaounde!
      It’s unconvincing, but Gabon have started their Group C campaign with a win.
      Gabon 1-0 Comoros
      90+5. The ball struck Lloyd Palun flush in the side of the head.
      He’s now conscious again and walking, not requiring the stretcher.
      But he surely can’t continue in these final moments of the match.
      Gabon 1-0 Comoros
      90+3. The free-kick is smacked straight into the wall and that’s probably that for the Comoros.
      There’s a bit of concern for the man that blocked the free-kick, who appears possibly unconscious and is receiving urgent treatment.
      Gabon 1-0 Comoros
      90+2. Free-kick in a decent position for the Comoros.
      They couldn’t, could they…?
      Gabon 1-0 Comoros
      90. The fourth official signals three minutes of adding time.
      It’s now or never for the Comoros!
      Gabon 1-0 Comoros
      88. Jean Noel Amonome flaps at a distinctly aimless cross.
      But the Gabon goalkeeper uses the opportunity to dive on the ball and waste some time.
      Gabon 1-0 Comoros
      85. Comoros send an aimless ball forward.
      The underdogs appear to be tiring here, but Gabon have seemingly no interest in trying to hold on to the ball.
      Gabon 1-0 Comoros
      84. Can the Comoros conjure one final effort in their hunt for an equaliser?
      As it stands Gabon are headed for a deeply unconvincing victory in their Group C opener.
      Credit: AFP
      Gabon 1-0 Comoros
      82. El-Fardou Mohamed picks up the ball just beyond the halfway line and elects to shoot!
      His team-mates must be annoyed with him there… he’s missed by miles.
      Gabon 1-0 Comoros
      80. Former Millwall favourite Nadjim Abdou is on for the Comoros.
      Now 37, the midfielder plays his club football for Martigues.
      Can he help his nation produce a historic equaliser?
      Credit: PA:Press Association
      Gabon 1-0 Comoros – Substitution
      79. Goalscorer Aaron Boupendza is replaced by David Sambissa for Gabon.
      Gabon 1-0 Comoros
      77. Bouanga comes close again! But his effort is thwarted by Nadhoim.
      Gabon 1-0 Comoros – Substitutions
      75. The Comoros make another pair of changes, as Ahmed Mogni and Nadjim Abdou replace Rafidine Abdullah and Kassim M’Dahoma.
      Gabon 1-0 Comoros – Chance!
      73. Now it’s Comoros’ turn to come close!
      Said Bakari unleashed a shot from outside the box and I must confess I thought it had gone in!
      Instead, however, Amonome’s intervention pushes the ball out for a corner.
      Gabon 1-0 Comoros – Big chance!
      72. Saint-Etienne ace Denis Bouanga finally produces a moment of quality!
      The Ligue 1 forward jinks inside before thumping a shot towards goal!
      It’s a little close to Nadhoim, however, and is slapped away.
      Gabon 1-0 Comoros
      70. Should Comoros have had a penalty?
      Bruno Ecuele Manga went diving into a challenge on Mohamed.. I’ve seen them given!
      Gabon 1-0 Comoros
      69. The Comoros remain well on top but just cannot quite carve out an opening.
      Their time is just beginning to run out in Yaounde.
      Credit: AFP
      Gabon 1-0 Comoros – Substitutions
      66. Ulrick Eneme Ella is on for Jim Allevinah.
      While Comoros have made a change of their own, with Mohamed Youssouf replaced by Djoumoi Moussa.
      Gabon 1-0 Comoros
      66. Brighton youngster Ulrick Eneme Ella is readying himself to come on for Gabon.
      The 20-year-old will be earning just his second cap.
      Gabon 1-0 Comoros
      63. Jean Noel Amonome is now crumpled in a heap again after being fouled by El-Fardou Mohamed.
      He’s up again and okay now though and we’re going again.
      Gabon 1-0 Comoros
      62. Decent chance for Comoros!
      Youssouf curls in an inviting, deep cross from the left flank.
      But his team-mate struggled to make a meaningful connection in the middle.
      Can Comoros find that precious leveller?
      Gabon 1-0 Comoros – Yellow Card
      61. Andre Poko is booked for cynically bringing down his opponent.
      Gabon 1-0 Comoros
      60. Penalty shout for Comoros!
      Were Gabon lucky not to be penalised there… it looked like there was contact!
      VAR have elected NOT to get involved.
      That might be controversial.
      Load more entries… More

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      Why is Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang not playing for Gabon at AFCON?

      by

      GABON kick off their AFCON campaign against Comoros in Cameroon.However, Gabon star man and Arsenal ex-captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang will be playing no part of the game.
      GABON VS COMOROS LIVE – LATEST UPDATES
      Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang flying to AFCON
      Why is Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang not playing for Gabon?
      Aubameyang tested positive for Covid on his arrival in Cameroon for the Africa Cup of Nations.
      The news came just days after the Gabon forward was spotted partying with team-mates in Dubai.
      Videos posted online revealed Aubameyang, 32, on a night out with Mario Lemina, 28, who has also tested positive for coronavirus.
      Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has tested positive for Covid on his arrival to the Africa Cup of NationsCredit: Snapchat / @walter_sk
      The pair will miss Gabon’s opening two group matches against Comoros, on January 10, and Ghana four days later on Friday, January 14.
      Aubameyang had last Wednesday shared a selfie of himself travelling on the plane heading to Cameroon.
      But according to Sport News Africa, the Arsenal forward and Lemina tested positive for Covid after arriving in Cameroon.
      It adds to more woes for Aubameyang, who two weeks into December was STRIPPED of Gunners captaincy.
      He was then dropped by Mikel Arteta for Arsenal’s 3-0 win over Southampton after arriving back late from an authorised trip to France.
      The former Borussia Dortmund man has not returned since.
      But was given permission to leave the Gunners camp to join Gabon early – only to then test positive for Covid after being out with the public in the Middle East.
      Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta said: “For me, its difficult to judge when the players are away and I don’t know what they were able to do or not.
      “The decisions I’ve taken are in the best interest of the club and trying to do the right thing.”
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      in Soccer

      Morocco 1 Ghana 0: Watch Arsenal star Thomas Partey accidentally ‘assist’ Sofiane Boufal in nightmare Afcon start

      by

      THOMAS PARTEY set up the winning goal in his first game in the Africa Cup of Nations… but for the wrong side. The Arsenal midfielder started for Ghana in their opening group match against Morocco.
      Sofiane Boufal celebrates scoring Morocco’s winnerCredit: Reuters
      Thomas Partey on the ball for Ghana during their Afcon openerCredit: Rex

      And he was left in disbelief as Angers winger Sofiane Boufal fired home a late winner on 83 minutes.
      But the former Southampton forward, 28, was unwittingly set up by Partey, 28, whose attempted interception put the Morocco forward in on goal.
      And after Boufal cooly finished, it settled the game, with fans on Twitter quick to point the finger at Gunners man Partey.
      One said: “Thomas Partey with the assist.”
      Another said: “Great assist by Thomas Partey.”
      One wrote: “Thomas Partey gave a very beautiful assist today?”

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      FREE BETS: GET OVER £2,000 IN NEW CUSTOMER DEALS
      Elsewhere in the group, Gabon start their tournament against Comoros, but will be without star striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.
      Arsenal outcast Aubameyang tested positive for Covid on his arrival in Cameroon.
      The news came just days after the forward was spotted partying with team-mates in Dubai.
      Videos posted online revealed Aubameyang, 32, on a night out with Mario Lemina, 28, who has also tested positive for coronavirus.
      Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang out in Dubai before testing positive for CovidCredit: Snapchat / @walter_sk More