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      Barcelona 2 Real Madrid 3 (AET) LIVE REACTION: Valverde’s extra-time goal sends Los Blancos into Spanish Super Cup final

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      REAL MADRID inflicted another painful blow on Barcelona as Federico Valverde’s extra-time goal sent Los Blancos into the Super Cup final.It’s been a dismal season for Barca so far, with the Catalan giants currently sixth in La Liga and 17 points behind Los Blancos.
      And despite mustering a 2-2 draw in normal time thanks to a late equaliser from Ansu Fati, it was Madrid celebrating at full time.

      Final score: Barcelona 2-3 Real Madrid (AET)

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      Thats all from the King Fahd International Stadium
      A proper El Clasico!
      Real Madrid sail through to the Super Cup final and are on course to win their first piece of silverware of the year.
      Attentions now turn to tomorrow’s semi-final.
      Thank you for reading, and goodnight!
      Xav that
      Despite the defeat, there are some positives that Xavi can take from the game.
      Barcelona looked promising on the attack and had more shots than their opposition.
      Pedri put in a great performance despite coming back from injury and will only continue to gain fitness.
      Ferran Torres will improve in time as he adapts to the system of his new team.
      Credit: AP
      Stand-out performances
      Vinicius and Benzema were too much for the Barcelona defence to handle, especially on the counter-attacks which were frequent throughout the game.
      Dembele had a good performance for Barca, but the team as a whole lacked efficiency in front of goal.
      All-White on the night
      Real Madrid claim their fifth consecutive El Clasico victory in spectacular style.
      The victory sees them sail through to Sunday’s Super Cup final where they will be facing either Atletico Madrid or Athletic Bilbao.
      The other semi-final will take place tomorrow evening.
      Credit: AFP
      Full Time – Barcelona 2-3 Real Madrid
      Real Madrid secure their place in the Super Cup final with a hard-earned win against their rivals.
      Barcelona did not make it easy for them and continued to press until the final whistle.
      120. Barcelona 2-3 Real Madrid
      Two minutes to go.
      Fati attempts an overhead kick but Courtois claims the ball and clears it.
      The Whites break forward on the counter-attack and look certain to score, but Rodrygo somehow misses the target.
      116. Barcelona 2-3 Real Madrid
      Only four minutes to go…
      Barcelona are really pushing forward now which is leaving them exposed in defence.
      112. Barcelona 2-3 Real Madrid
      Barcelona appeal for a penalty as Fati goes down in the box following a challenge from Vasquez.
      The referee signals for play to continue.
      109. Barcelona 2-3 Real Madrid
      Ezzalzouli comes agonisingly close to levelling the score again, but his effort is driven just wide of the post.
      Meanwhile, Jutgla has replaced Gavi.
      Vinicius is forced off with cramp and replaced by Camavinga.
      106. Barcelona 2-3 Real Madrid
      The game restarts for the final 15 minutes.
      ET Half Time – Barcelona 2-3 Real Madrid
      Real Madrid have the advantage, but Barcelona have already proven that they are more than capable of getting level.
      15 minutes to go…
      Valverde celebrates putting Real Madrid aheadCredit: Reuters
      99. Barcelona 2-3 Real Madrid
      A perfect counter-attack from Real Madrid.
      The Whites claim the ball, break forward with tremendous speed and find themselves four against two.
      Rodrygo carries the ball on the right before squaring it into the box, it looks like Vinicius will get the final touch but he leaves it for Valverde to slot into the bottom left corner.
      98. GOOOOAAAAALLLLLLL REAAAAALLLLLLL!!!!!
      Super-sub Valverde puts the Whites ahead!
      91. Barcelona 2-2 Real Madrid
      Barcelona appeal for a penalty as Dembele goes down in the box.
      The winger immediately grabs the ball so the referee gives a free kick the other way for the hand ball.
      Xavi is furious.
      ET Kick Off – Barcelona 2-2 Real Madrid
      We’re underway for the first half of extra-time.
      Vasquez has come on to replace Carvajal.
      Full Time – Barcelona 2-2 Real Madrid
      Barcelona have shocked their rivals and come from behind twice to draw the score level.
      We now go into extra time.
      This still could go either way…
      Credit: AP
      90. Barcelona 2-2 Real Madrid
      Okay, we’re back after some technical difficulties.
      To summerise, Benzema put the Whites ahead, but his goal was cancelled out by Fati.
      Modric has come off and has been replaced by Valverde.
      Anyway, it now looks like we’re going to extra time – game on!
      84. GOOOOAAAAAALLLL BARCA EQUALISE!!!!!
      Fati draws Barcelona level!
      72. GOALLLLL REALLLLLL!
      Benzema taps in after a cross from Carvajal!
      66. Barcelona 1-1 Real Madrid
      Real Madrid make their first change of the night as Rodrygo replaces Asensio.
      Barcelona also make a change as Fati comes on for Luuk de Jong.
      62. Barcelona 1-1 Real Madrid
      The ball is sent out of play as Asensio and Alba go down injured.
      The defender attempted to slide in on the midfielder, who lost his balance and accidentally stepped on Alba’s leg.
      Both players are back up and look to continue.
      58. Barcelona 1-1 Real Madrid
      Barcelona have been in control of the second half so far.
      The Whites have been losing the ball cheaply and Barca are happy to keep the possession.
      54. Barcelona 1-1 Real Madrid
      Barcelona strike again as the ball finds Dembele in the box.
      The Frenchman attempts to volley with his weak foot, it’s a good effort but narrowly misses the target.
      49. Barcelona 1-1 Real Madrid
      Xavi’s side are looking much more confident than they did in the first half.
      After a long spell of possession and build-up play the ball finally falls to Pedri who strikes from outside the box.
      His effort is agonisingly close but goes wide.
      Kick Off – Barcelona 1-1 Real Madrid
      We’re back underway.
      Barcelona make two changes as Torres makes way for Ezzalzouli.
      Pedri also comes on to replace Frenkie de Jong.
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      Ivory Coast 1 Equatorial Guinea 0 LIVE REACTION: Early Max Gradel strike gives Bailly and Co dream start to AFCON

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      IVORY COAST kicked off their AFCON challenge with a win against Equatorial Guinea.Eric Bailly started and was a rock at the back, with Max Gradel grabbing the only goal of the game.

      Final score: Ivory Coast 1-0 E Guinea

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      Top of the tree
      After the first round of fixtures in the group, thanks to Sierra Leone holding Algeria to a draw, Ivory Coast sit at the top of the group with a two-point gap between them and second place already. A good day to be a fan of ‘Les Elephants’
      Man of the Match:
      Jean Michael Seri
      The Fulham centre midfielder put in a polished performance breaking up play and stopping Equatorial Guinea playing through the middle of the park. As a result, they were forced to focus on wing play and balls over the top to bypass the midfield.
      FT: Equatorial Guinea 0 Ivory Coast 1
      A close game from start to finish. The depth of the Ivory Coast squad and their ability to bring world-class players from the bench just proved too much for Ivory Coast to overcome. Equatorial Guinea will feel they should have got something out of this game but they were not clinical enough when chances fell to them.
      Equatorial Guinea 0 Ivory Coast 1
      90 mins: Bringing Pepe and Zaha on has really stopped Equatorial Guinea as an attacking threat. Zaha creates himself an opportunity but drags his shot wide of the far post.
      Equatorial Guinea 0 Ivory Coast 1
      69 mins: Edu with a long range shot, just wide of the far post. It looked to have the keeper beaten.
      Equatorial Guinea 0 Ivory Coast 1
      68 mins: Can the National Thunder find this goal they crave or will all their efforts be merely a storm in a teacup?
      Equatorial Guinea 0 Ivory Coast 1
      66 mins: Nlavo is booked for Equatorial Guinea with his first contribution from the bench. A clumsy challenge.
      Equatorial Guinea 0 Ivory Coast 1
      65 mins: Ganet goes on a bursting run through the centre of midfield and unleashes a shot from outside the box which is closer than first thought as the replay shows.
      Equatorial Guinea 0 Ivory Coast 1
      62 mins: Another chance for Cornet, he turns inside a defender but again his shot is blocked as he lets rip. Equatorial Guinea go straight up the other end and Nsue is slotted through, one on one with the keeper, the striker cannot beat the Ivory Coast stopper.
      Equatorial Guinea 0 Ivory Coast 1
      59 mins: Cornet cuts in from the flank and glides passed two defenders into the centre of the box. Just as it seems he is to unleash a shot that may give ‘Les Elephants’ a second goal, a sliding challenge from the defender deflects the ball wide for a corner.
      Equatorial Guinea 0 Ivory Coast 1
      56 mins: If you were to tune into this game right now, you would think that Ivory Coast are playing in red. Equatorial Guinea are looking comfortable on the ball, playing slick passing and creating openings. Can they find that elusive goal to draw level?
      Equatorial Guinea 0 Ivory Coast 1
      53 mins: The ball runs free to the impressive Konan about 25 yards out. He unleashes a shot but doesn’t catch it right and the shot is well-wide.
      Equatorial Guinea 0 Ivory Coast 1
      49 mins: Nchama (Ndong) again causes problems down the left, crossing the ball into the six-yard box. Only some great tackles/blocks from Ivory Coast keep them out before the ball falls to Edu with a great sight on goal. His body-shape is all wrong and side-foots the effort well wide.
      Equatorial Guinea 0 Ivory Coast 1
      48 mins: Nsue gets to the byline and manages to pick out his strike partner Hanza-Meha. The striker cannot get enough power on the header to cause any problems
      Equatorial Guinea 0 Ivory Coast 1
      47 mins: One thing AFCON always guarantees us………..a reintroduction to the vuvuzela.
      Equatorial Guinea 0 Ivory Coast 1
      45 mins: Second half kicks off with Equatorial Guinea almost creating an opportunity on goal straight away.
      HT: Equatorial Guinea 0 Ivory Coast 1
      Despite the score, Equatorial Guinea have had more shots than their opponents in the first half. With both teams only registering one shot on target each, Guinea need to test the keeper more in the second half. Ivory Coast have edged possession slightly with 55%. All to play for in the second half.
      HT: Equatorial Guinea 0 Ivory Coast 1
      Gradel’s wonder-strike separates the sides at half-time. Other than that this has been an entertaining but quite evenly matched game. They need to deal with the options Konan is giving Ivory Coast down the left and try themselves to get more of the ball to Nchama (Ndong) who is causing problems himself down the flank.
      Equatorial Guinea 0 Ivory Coast 1
      45 mins: Although the score line favours Ivory Coast currently, providing it stays at 1-0, Equatorial Guinea are definitely still in this game. They have caused Ivory Coast plenty of problems in the last quarter of this half.
      Equatorial Guinea 0 Ivory Coast 1
      41 mins: Konan turns the right-back inside out again before going back for seconds, beating him, only for his cross to be cut out by one his fellow defenders.
      Equatorial Guinea 0 Ivory Coast 1
      39 mins: We do have VAR in this tournament, that ball looked to strike an arm in an unnatural position but play continues and the VAR room remains silent.
      Equatorial Guinea 0 Ivory Coast 1
      38 mins: Immediately after a penalty appeal from Guinea, a slotted through ball gives Nsue a strike at goal but the flag is raised.
      Equatorial Guinea 0 Ivory Coast 1
      35 mins: Equatorial Guinea are starting to settle and get into this game more. They seem comfortable in possession now and making more moves on the Ivory Coast goal. Sangare dives full stretch to deal with a low drilled cross into the danger area. Guinea are turning the screw a bit currently.
      Equatorial Guinea 0 Ivory Coast 1
      32 mins: If the first half hour of this game is anything to go by, Stade De Reims could be fielding a lot of phonecalls about Konan’s future after this tournament.
      Equatorial Guinea 0 Ivory Coast 1
      30 mins: Gradel protests with the referee about the challenge which results in a yellow card for Sangare. The replay shows it was a clumsy challenge by the Ivory Coast man.
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      Arsenal U21 4 Chelsea U21 1 LIVE REACTION: Young Gunners thump ten-man Blues to reach EFL Trophy quarter-final

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      ARSENAL U21 are through to the quarter-finals of the EFL Trophy after thumping Chelsea at the Emirates. James Olayinka gave the Gunners an early lead before Xavier Mbuyamba saw red for the visitors.
      Ten-man Chelsea fought back to draw things level through Jayden Wareham, but Mika Bierith, Omari Hutchinson and Marcelo Flores netted to see Arsenal run away with the tie.

      Final score: Arsenal U21 4-1 Chelsea U21

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      Full Time – Arsenal 4-1 Chelsea
      That’s all from me at the Emirates Stadium folks, as the Young Gunners book their place in the EFL Trophy semi-finals for the first time.
      James Olayinka got them off to the perfect start in the first-half, before unfortunately having to be stretchered off just a few minutes later.
      Xavier Mbuyamba then made Chelsea’s task much harder later in the first-half, when he was sent off for hauling down Mika Biereth as last man.
      The Blues did make things interesting when Jayden Wareham equalised against the run of play.
      But after Biereth put the Gunners back into the lead it was never in doubt – with Omari Hutchinson and Marcelo Flores strikes adding gloss to the result.
      Thanks for joining me this evening and keep it SunSport for all things Arsenal and Chelsea.
      Credit: Getty
      Credit: Getty
      Full Time – Arsenal 4-1 Chelsea
      And that’s that from Emirates Stadium as the Gunners book their place in the semi-finals!
      Goals by James Olayinka, Mika Biereth, Omari Hutchinson get the job done for the home side.
      Xavier Mbuyamba’s red card made things difficult for the Blues – although Jayden Wareham’s first-half equaliser did momentarily make things interesting.
      Arsenal 4-1 Chelsea
      90+3. George Nunn misses a sitter!
      Joe Haigh produced an excellent run and cross down the right, only for sub Nunn to volley over the bar.
      Arsenal 4-1 Chelsea
      90+1. Joel Ideho comes inside onto his right foot…
      But blasts his shot into Row Z!
      Arsenal 4-1 Chelsea
      90. We are into three minutes of added time here.
      Chelsea will just want this to end now.
      Arsenal 4-1 Chelsea
      89. Arsenal are still chasing another here in the closing stages.
      They’ve been very impressive tonight.
      Arsenal 4-1 Chelsea
      88. As if Omari Hutchinson’s flip wasn’t enough…
      Marcelo Flores produced another!
      Credit: Rex
      Arsenal 4-1 Chelsea
      86. Baker is nearly caught out by the lively Flores!
      But Chelsea just about mop up the danger.
      Arsenal 4-1 Chelsea
      85. Khayon Edwards is denied by a brilliant stop by Sharman-Lowe!
      This could have been any number in the second-half.
      Arsenal 4-1 Chelsea – Yellow Card
      84. George Bunn is shown a yellow card for a late challenge.
      The crowd weren’t happy with that one.
      Arsenal 4-1 Chelsea – Substitutions
      82. Ryan Alebiosu is replaced for Arsenal by Joel Ideho.
      While Joel Lopez is replaced by Khayon Edwards.
      Arsenal 4-1 Chelsea
      81. Flores has been quite brilliant here.
      He draws another gasp from the crowd with a brilliant piece of footwork.
      Arsenal 4-1 Chelsea
      79. Wow! What a goal line clearance that is!
      It looked for all the world that Arsenal simply had to score, when Flores skipped around the goalkeeper.
      But it is incredibly headed off the line!
      Arsenal 4-1 Chelsea
      78. Marcelo Flores shows off some gorgeous footwork before coming within a whisker of playing in Biereth.
      This has been an impressive cameo from the substitute.
      Arsenal 4-1 Chelsea
      77. Hughes crosses over everybody for an Arsenal goal kick.
      It’s just been one of those days for a normally very impressive Chelsea side.
      Arsenal 4-1 Chelsea – Substitutions
      75. Fiabema and Hughes coming on for Gilchrist and Vale.
      These two will have a difficult job making an impact for ten-man Chelsea.
      Arsenal 4-1 Chelsea
      74. Chelsea are readying a further two changes…
      But meanwhile Arsenal have a corner.
      Arsenal 4-1 Chelsea
      74. Chelsea have missed an absolute sitter!
      A cross fell invitingly onto the head of Joe Haigh and he just had to score!
      But his diving header flies into the side netting.
      Arsenal 4-1 Chelsea
      71. Here’s Hutchinson’s celebration for you!
      This kid seems to have the lot.
      Credit: Getty
      Arsenal 4-1 Chelsea
      70. The game has hit an understandable lull here.
      Both teams seemingly know their fate.
      Goal – Arsenal 4-1 Chelsea!
      67. It’s getting ugly for the Blues now!
      Substitute Marcelo Flores sweeps home with what could well be his first touch!
      Barring a miracle now the Gunners are heading through the semi-finals.
      Arsenal 3-1 Chelsea
      66. The Gunners also made two changes in the aftermath of the third goal.
      Reuell Walters and Marcelo Flores replaced Ryan Alebiosu and Salah-Eddine Oulad M’hand.
      Arsenal 3-1 Chelsea – yellow card
      65. Lewis Baker is booked for a rash challenge.
      You can understand the 26-year-old’s frustration.
      Arsenal 3-1 Chelsea – substititions
      64. Chelsea made two changes in the aftermath of the goal, with Soonsup-Bell and Wareham replaced by Nunn and Webester.
      They’ll have their work cut out turning this one around.
      Arsenal 3-1 Chelsea
      62. Just as he’s been threatening to do all night, Hutchinson scores!
      The talented teen comes onto his left foot before burying a low effort beyond Sharman-Lowe from the edge of the box.
      He then wows the crowd with a superb backflip!
      Arsenal fans will be very excited by this prospect on tonight’s evidence.
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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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      Nigeria vs Egypt LIVE: Stream FREE, score, TV channel, kick-off time, team news – Mo Salah STARTS AFCON 2022 clash

      by

      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!
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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.
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      Man Utd 1 Aston Villa 0 LIVE REACTION: McTominay header sends Ralf Rangnick’s side into FA Cup fourth round

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      MANCHESTER UNITED will face Middlesbrough in the FA Cup fourth round after beating Aston Villa at Old Trafford.United made a dream start, with Scott McTominay heading in early on from a superb cross from Fred.
      Danny Ings thought he had responded for the Villans, but his leveller was disallowed by VAR after a lengthy delay.
      And despite a feisty second half – and another Villa goal ruled out for offside – Ralf Rangnick’s side saw things out.

      Final score: Man Utd 1-0 Aston Villa

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      Gerr-ard luck loss
      Steven Gerrard refuses to blame the dodgy VAR decision on his side crashing out of the FA CUp against Manchester United.
      But the no-nonsense Liverpool legend cannot help having a dig at the confused system.
      He said: “The officials took three and a half minutes to settle that one. They have looked at two or three things in it.
      “When VAR is there and they make a decision you have to accept it. There is nothing you can do to change it.
      “The easy way out is to blame luck and the officials, we won’t do that.”
      VAR from perfect
      Rangnick is too clever to get carried away thinking his side is the finished article.
      They were luck y to win today and he admits it.
      He said: “To say that this was a perfect game, nobody would believe that of course it was not.
      “We still have quite a few things we can get better at but clean sheet was important today and we worked together.
      “Still a lot of things to improve but it is easier to do that with a 1-0 win.”
      Captain futuristic
      After a lacklustre performance, saved by a Scott McTominay goal, United boss Ralf Rangnick tippde the Scot to be a future captain.
      He said: “”He is an academy boy, his energy is amazing.
      “He now also starts scoring goals and also with some leadership skills.
      “I wouldn’t be surprised if in a couple of years he would be the captain of this team.”
      Typical underwhelming United
      Former Man City and Villa defender Micah Richards was scathing of Ralf Rangnick’s side.
      The former England defender finds them thoroughly dull.
      He said: “Typical Manchester United again.
      “Underwhelming, not great but at least Scott McTominay popped up with a goal.
      “They won today, so you have to take the positives but nowhere near good enough.”
      Short on confidence?
      Varane reckons his side is struggling for confidence right now, despite their 1-0 win and FA Cup progress.
      He said: “When it was not possible to play higher up the pitch we were compact and did not let them play easily.
      “We had to be aggressive and as a result it is good. We are happy.
      “We need more confidence, we need to be together and I think we are in a good way.”
      United squad united?
      Varane is asked about the squad morale that is allegedly fractious.
      But the summer signing dodges the question expertly.
      He said: “We just have to be focused on our job.
      “We have to fight, we have to fight for our fans. That is it.”
      Raph VARane speaks
      The United defender says Danny Ings’ goal was right to be ruled out – following a long VAR consultation – after Edinson Cavani was barged off the ball.
      He said: “It was a long moment! I think it is the right decision.
      “It is just a moment in the game and I think the spirit of the team was good.”
      VARsical decision
      Alan Shearer is not sure Danny Ings’ goal should have been ruled out for a block on Edinson Cavani.
      The former striker said after United’s 1-0 win over Aston Villa: “I am not 100 per cent certain Cavani is getting back for the goal.
      “Is it a clear and obvious error? I am not certain it is because I am not certain Cavani would get to the ball.”
      Second best
      Alan Shearer says what we are all thinking.
      Toon great tells BBC: “Aston Villa created chances, they will look back on this game with regret. They should have scored.
      “It was not a good performance from Manchester United.
      “They were second best for large parts of that second half.”
      Man United 1 Aston Villa 0
      FULL TIME
      Manchester United sneak into the Fourth Round of the FA Cup after being peppered by Aston Villa.
      Steven Gerrard’s men crash out the cup after having two goals disallowed.
      This United team is either slowly improving or chugging toward a disaster.
      Man United 1 Aston Villa 0
      95 Another man-of-the-match performance from Scott McTominay.
      Lively Elanga wins his side another late corner and takes it short with Greenwood.
      Villa snatch it back and hoof long.
      But United earn a throw and return to running down the fading clock.
      Man United 1 Aston Villa 0
      91 Elanga gets right involved with a brilliant dash down the left and a clever low cross but nobody is there in red to score.
      Villa escape a rare United attack.
      Lingard does well and feeds Greenwood who pings another shot right down Martinez’s throat.
      Man United 1 Aston Villa 0
      88 Ezri Konsa is getting treatment on a busted nose or top lip that is bleeding.
      Luke Shaw seemed to catch him with an arm but it was not deemed a serious foul.
      The actions resumes with a big De Gea boot.
      Man United 1 Aston Villa 0
      86 Fernandes and Rashford are hooked for Elanga and Lingard.
      Ramsey has left for Villa with 19-year-old Philogene-Bidace entering the fray.
      Fernandes looks angry while Rashford is rank dejected.
      Will he be hanging about under Ralf?
      Man United 1 Aston Villa 0
      83 Ings misses a header so United race up the other end.
      The frustrated United crowd keep ordering their men to “shoooooot” but none of them are bold enough.
      Villa switch formation to 4-3-3- in the effort to grab a late and deserved equaliser.
      United make a double substitution.
      Man United 1 Aston Villa 0
      80 Fernandes and Fred swap passes before United win a corner off Ramsey.
      A goal here will deflate Villa, after so many missed chances.
      Fernandes whips the ball in and Mings powers a header away.
      United grab it back but are ransacked before Villa blow the counter attack.
      Man United 1 Aston Villa 0
      74 Mason Greenwood passes another ‘shot’ into the arms of Villa keep Martinez.
      The United striker gets another chance with a one-on-one but his firmer shot is well saved.
      Rashford bizarrely refuses to lunge in for the rebound.
      Man United 1 Aston Villa 0
      71 Villa have another chance as Watkins curls one just wide with his left foot.
      Villa have battered the home side and just not managed to score a legal goal.
      Rangnick is about to sling outcast Donny Van De Beek a bone as Cavani gets hooked for him.
      Can the Dutchman finally prove his worth to Old Trafford?
      Man United 1 Aston Villa 0
      Luke Shaw ends another Villa attack with a cinical foul and goes in the book.
      Cries of “you fat b******” ring out from the visiting fans.
      Villa waste the free-kick but United now have a couple of players on yellows.
      Man United 1 Aston Villa 0
      62 Villa on the front foot again, wave after wave of pressure but De Gea is solid.
      Is Ralf Rangnick ice cool in the United technical area or is he winging this by the seat of his pants?
      Villa are all over his side but just cannot score. United are scraping into the next round of the FA Cup, at this rate.
      Man United 1 Aston Villa 0
      60 Another Villa goal ruled out.
      Buendia slips in Ings who dinks De Gea before Watkins taps in.
      But Ings was offside when he was played in so the score remains 1-0.
      Lidelof was injured during that and is getting treatment on the side of the pitch.
      Man United 1 Aston Villa 0
      58 Bit of argy bargy after McGinn crashes into Fred.
      The Scot has the hump over the disallowed goal and poor Fred is the human stress ball getting the brunt of the anger.
      The action is up and down like a basketball game now. Both sides creating chances and looking shaky at the back.
      Man United 1 Aston Villa 0
      The goal is chalked off for a foul on Cavani from Ramsey.
      The long-haired striker was body checked by the young Villa midfield and barged to the deck before Ings headed in.
      Such a long delay but now looks a fair decision.
      Man United 1 Aston Villa 1
      Was Ings offside?
      The Villa fans hold their breath.
      Does Watkins flick it on to Ings from an offside position?
      Boos ring out over the delay.
      Michael Oliver has been told to view on the monitor a possible block on Cavani from Ramsey.
      Man United 1 Aston Villa 1
      51 Villa equalise through Danny Ings after Man United fail to defend a simple free-kick dangled into the box.
      Terrible defending.
      Goal now being checked by VAR.
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      Gabon 1 Comoros 0 LIVE REACTION: Aubameyang misses AFCON 2022 clash as Boupendza gives Gabon crucial three points

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      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.
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