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Author: Dismas Otuke

  • Turkey, Sweden, Bosnia, Czechia, DRC and Iraq seal World Cup qualification

    Turkey, Sweden, Bosnia, Czechia, DRC and Iraq seal World Cup qualification

    Turkey, Sweden, Bosnia, the Czech Republic, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Iraq were the last six nations to book their tickets for the 23rd edition of the FIFA World Cup to be co-hosted by the USA, Mexico and Canada.

    The last six qualifiers – 4 for Europe and two intercontinental playoffs – were played between Tuesday night and Wednesday morning.

    Bosnia qualified for their 2nd World Cup as an independent nation, knocking out four-time World Champions Italy 4-1 on penalties following a 1-1 draw in normal and extra time.

    Italy will be missing the World Cup for a third consecutive time.

    Sweden needed a last-minute Victor Gyökeres strike to book their ticket in a 3-2 home win against stubborn Poland to seal their 13th qualification.

    Turkey qualified for a 3rd time following a narrow 1-0 away to Kosovo, while the Czech Republic saw off Denmark 3-2 in penalties after a 1-1 draw.

    The Leopards of DRC qualified at the expense of Jamaica after a 1-0 win in extra time, while Iraq became the last nation to seal qualification, defeating Bolivia 2-1.

    The following is the 48-team list for the 2026 FIFA World Cup

    Group A: Mexico, South Korea, South Africa, Czech Republic

    Group B: Canada, Switzerland, Qatar, Bosnia and Herzegovina

    Group C: Brazil, Morocco, Scotland, Haiti

    Group: D: United States, Australia, Paraguay, Turkey

    Group E: Germany, Curaçao, Côte d’Ivoire, Ecuador

    Group F: Netherlands, Japan, Tunisia, Sweden

    Group G: Belgium, Iran, Egypt, New Zealand

    Group H: Spain, Uruguay, Saudi Arabia, Cape Verde

    Group I: France, Senegal, Norway, Iraq

    Group J: Argentina, Austria, Algeria, Jordan

    Group K: Portugal, Colombia, Uzbekistan, Democratic Republic of the Congo

    Group L: England, Croatia, Panama, Ghana

    The FIFA World Cup will run from 11th June to July 19 this year.

    Co-host Mexico will open the tournament on June 11th against South Africa in Group A, before paving the way for another host, Canada, who will take on Bosnia a day later in Group B.

    Co-hosts USA will get the action rolling in group D on 13th June when they face South Americans Paraguay.

  • DR Congo returns to FIFA World Cup after 52 years, increasing African qualified teams to 10

    DR Congo returns to FIFA World Cup after 52 years, increasing African qualified teams to 10

    DR Congo qualified for the FIFA World Cup for the first time in 52 years after beating Jamaica 1-0 in extra time in the play-off staged early Wednesday in Mexico.

    Both sides approached the match cautiously, with the Leopards of Congo creating more chances but being kept at bay by the highly disciplined Jamaica Reggae Boys’ defence.

    In the end, neither side could find a breakthrough, and the contest headed into an extra 30 minutes, where DR Congo finally made their pressure count in the 100th minute when Axel Tuanzebe bundled in from close range after Brian Cipenga’s corner kick was diverted into the centre-back’s path.

    Despite Jamaica throwing everything in search of an equaliser, the Leopards kept them at bay for a hard-earned victory as they returned to the global stage for the first time since 1974.

    DR Congo’s qualifications also increased African teams at this year’s FIFA World Cup to 10, and they will be placed in group K alongside Portugal, Uzbekistan and Colombia.

  • AK invite 818 athletes for World Relays and Africa senior championships joint trials

    AK invite 818 athletes for World Relays and Africa senior championships joint trials

    Athletics Kenya has invited a total of 818 athletes for a three-day combined national trials at the Ulinzi Complex between 9th and 11th this month, to select teams for the World Relays and the African Senior Athletics Championships.

    Among the relay athletes invited for the trials are reigning 100m Commonwealth champion Ferdinand Omanyala, Mark Otieno, Brown Muthara and Moses Onyango, who will all dash against the clock in the 100m.

    Former World 800m champion Mary Moraa will double in the 400m and the two-lap race, where she will face reigning world champion Lillian Odira.

    Olympic and World Champion Emmanuel Wanyonyi leads the 800m invited athletes and will go head to head against 29 other athletes targeting slots in the Africa Senior Championship team.

    Faith Kipyegon, who has claimed both world and Olympic titles in the women’s 1500m, has chosen to shift her focus from her signature event to the 5,000m for the upcoming trials.

    The top two finishers in the Africa Senior Athletics Championship trials will be chosen, with a third athlete being selected by a panel of selectors.

    AK has confirmed that all chosen athletes must have completed between one and three out-of-competition tests in the last six months, depending on their world athletics ranking, as mandated by the Athletics Integrity Unit for federations in Category A.

    The World Athletics Relay Championships are scheduled for May 2-3, 2026, in Gaborone, Botswana, while the Africa Senior Athletics Championships will take place in Accra, Ghana, from May 12 to 17.

  • Ghana sack head coach Addo,72 days to World Cup

    Ghana sack head coach Addo,72 days to World Cup

    Ghana head coach Otto Addo has been dismissed just 72 days before the 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off in the USA,Mexico and Canada.

    The four-time African Champions Ghana -Black stars have struggled under Addo failing to win any of their international friendlies having lost to Japan, South Korea, Austria and most recently 2-1 against Germany on Monday night.

    In a brief statement the Ghana FA said they have relieved the former Borussia Dortmund talent coach of his duties without giving reasons.

    The search for the new coach commences immediately with the new head tactician tasked with guiding  the 2010 FIFA World Cup quarter finalists in a tough group L alongside England,Panama and Croatia.

  • Snow shines in South Africa to secure Sunshine Tour Card

    Snow shines in South Africa to secure Sunshine Tour Card

    Kenyan professional golfer Greg Snow has earned a coveted Sunshine Tour card for the 2026/27 season following an impressive performance at the Theo Manyama Qualifying School – Final Stage held from 25th to 29th March 2026 at Parys Golf & Country Estate and Vaal de Grace Golf Estate in South Africa.

    Competing against a strong field of 178 players from across Africa and beyond, Snow delivered a composed and consistent display over the grueling 90-hole tournament that featured a cut after 72 holes for the top 65 players and ties to finish tied 21st at 15-under par 345.

    He carded rounds of 68, 68, 67, 72 and 70 to secure a place among the top 25 players and ties, earning Sunshine Tour membership in Category 9. This category provides players with higher chances of entry into events, particularly when fields are oversubscribed .

    On the final day, Snow opened with a 34 on the front nine, including birdies at the par-4 sixth and par-5 ninth. Despite back-to-back bogeys at holes 12 and 13, the experienced golfer recovered strongly with birdies at the par-4 17th and par-5 18th to record a strong finish.

    Reflecting on the achievement, Snow said: “Securing my Sunshine Tour card for the 2026/2027 season is an incredible feeling. It’s something I’ve worked towards for a long time, so there’s a real sense of pride and relief knowing that the hard work has paid off. At the same time, it’s only the beginning. I see it as an opportunity to compete consistently at a high level, keep improving, and really test myself against some of the best players out there. I’m excited for what’s ahead, grateful for the support around me, and motivated to make the most of this next chapter.”

    Greg Snow in action at the Theo Manyama Qualifying School – Final Stage in South Africa.

    Snow earned the right to play in the final stage of Q School by finishing 5th in the Sunshine Development Tour Order of Merit, which qualified him among the top 30 players for the 90-hole final qualifying event in South Africa.

    On his decision to take part in Q School, Snow added: “Taking the leap to come to South Africa for Q School was driven by a belief in my game and a desire to compete at a higher level. I knew that if I wanted to grow and give myself the best opportunities, I had to step out of my comfort zone and test myself in a stronger, more competitive environment.”

    The Muthaiga Golf Club player becomes the fourth player from the Sunshine Development Tour – East Africa Swing to secure a Sunshine Tour card for the 2026/27 season.

    He joins Njoroge Kibugu, Celestin Nsanzuwera and Dismas Indiza, who finished first, second and third respectively on the Order of Merit during the Tour’s inaugural season.

    Speaking on Snow’s achievement, Sunshine Development Tour East Africa Swing Promoter Charles Gacheru praised the golfer’s consistency and highlighted the pathway the tour continues to create for regional talent.

    “Greg’s achievement is a perfect example of what the Sunshine Development Tour East Africa Swing was designed to do. It provides our players with a clear and competitive pathway to the Sunshine Tour and beyond. Finishing fifth on the Order of Merit and then going on to secure a tour card at the final stage of Q School shows the level of talent we have in this region,” Gacheru said. “For Greg, this is a well-deserved milestone. He has been one of the most consistent professionals in the region, and earning his Sunshine Tour card is both a reward for his persistence and a great moment for Kenyan golf. It also sends a strong message to upcoming players that if you perform well on the Development Tour, the opportunities to progress to the next level are very real,” he added.

    Snow’s success adds to the growing list of East African golfers making strides on the international stage, underlining the Sunshine Development Tour’s role as a critical bridge between regional competition and global professional golf. Kenya

  • KBC MD Agnes Kalekye appointed to the AFCON 2027 LOC,chaired by Musonye

    KBC MD Agnes Kalekye appointed to the AFCON 2027 LOC,chaired by Musonye

    Kenya Broadcasting Corporation Managing Director Agnes Kalekye has been appointed to the 38-member local organising committee of the PAMOJA African Cup of Nations (AFCON 2027), which is chaired by Nicholas Musonye.

    In the gazette notice by the Sports CS Salim Mvurya dated 30th March 2026, Kalekye will serve as a committee member alongside other technocrats, including football legends and sports administrators from the Ministry of Sports and the Football Kenya Federation.

    The committee’s responsibilities encompass fostering collaboration among stakeholders, setting up governance structures to ensure accountability and efficiency, coordinating logistical plans, and engaging with entities such as government agencies, sponsors, and international organizations to host events that adhere to global standards.

    Additionally, the committee will develop a comprehensive tournament plan for AFCON 2027, oversee budget formulation, resource mobilization, and financial accountability, monitor project timelines, and provide progress updates to CAF, the Kenyan government, and stakeholders.

    Other duties include supervising the refurbishment and upgrading of stadiums to meet CAF requirements for seating capacity, pitch quality, and safety; managing the construction of new sports facilities and training grounds as needed; ensuring improvements to transportation, telecommunications, and other essential infrastructure; collaborating with CAF to organize team draws, match schedules, and venue allocations; facilitating high-quality live broadcasts and global match transmissions; and managing ticketing, stadium operations, and fan zones securely and transparently.

    Based at Talanta Plaza, the committee is also tasked with creating detailed security plans for all venues and team accommodations in strict compliance with CAF match protocols, launching campaigns to promote AFCON 2027 both locally and internationally, securing sponsorships and partnerships with the private sector to enhance financial and brand support, and managing press relations, media accreditation, and communication strategies.

    It will aslo coordinate accommodation, transport, and logistics for players, officials, and fans,partner with the Kenya Tourism Board to showcase Kenya’s tourist attractions and cultural heritage,recruit, train, and manage a workforce of volunteers and staff,ensure inclusivity and capacity-building opportunities for Kenyan youth and align PAMOJA AFCON 20227 LOC activities with the national vision for sports and economic development and conduct a review of the tournaments success and identify areas of improvement.

    PAMOJA AFCON 2027 LOC Members
    1. Nicholas Musonye – Chairperson
    2. Hussein Mohammed – Vice-Chairperson
    3.Evans Achoki
    4.McDonald Mariga
    5. Brig. Titus Sokobe
    6. Osman Abdi
    7. June Chepkemei
    8. Mary Mwiti
    9. Nuh Ibrahim
    10. Agnes Kalekye
    11. Peninah Wahome
    12. Douglas Ratemo
    13. Timothy Kilimo
    14. Dr. Doreen Odhiambo
    15. Lilian Nyawada
    16. Lordvick Aduda
    17. K. K. Mutai
    18. Juma Maulidi Wahoga
    19.Rebecca Natabo Ekwam
    20. Robert Macharia
    21. Timothy Nabea
    22. Abdalla Yusuf Ibrahim
    23. Ahmed Qadar Dabar
    24.Gabriel Mghendi
    25. Peter Kamau
    26. Kerubo Momanyi
    27. Benard Lagat
    28. Collins Kalee
    29. Caleb Amwayi
    30. Ken Rungu
    31.Dan Shikanda
    32. Charles Njagi
    33. Thomas Karugu
    34. Evelyn Cheluget
    35. Miriam Chepkoech
    36. Rodgers Chimega
    37. Diana Injendi Manyengo
    38. Collins Were

    The 36th AFCON will be co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania from 19th June to 18th July 2027 and will be the last edition of the current  biennial tournament before it switches to a quadrennial championship starting 2028.

  • Determined Shujaa and Lionesses bag silver medals in Brazil

    Determined Shujaa and Lionesses bag silver medals in Brazil

    Kenya’s rugby teams concluded the inaugural HSBC Sevens Division Two series emphatically as they both bagged silver medals in the men’s and Women’s categories at the last leg in Sao Paulo, Brazil, on Sunday evening.

    The men’s team, which sealed a return into the Sevens World Championship, won 4 of their 5 matches, finishing on 18 points registering their 3rd consecutive podium finish, having won bronze in Nairobi and Uruguay earlier on.

    In Brazil, Shujaa defeated Germany 38-7, before suffering a narrow 12-14, defeat to leg champions Belgium but rebounded to hammer Canada 40-0, in their 3rd match on Saturday.

    On Sunday Shujaa overcame the USA 31-14, and completed their group matches with a resounding 24-14 against Uruguay.

    Kenya earned a promotion after finishing the season on 50 points, 2 behind leaders USA.

    Other teams which also punched their tickets into the core series next season were Germany and Uruguay, who tied on 48 points in 3rd and 4th positions, respectively.

    Kenyan ladies equally produced a magnificent performance, losing only a single match from their group’s 5 fixtures.

    The Lionesses got off to a flying start, thrashing Argentina 19-12, then eased past South Africa 14-5, and wrapped up the 1st day with a 24-17 win over Spain.

    The Lionesses trounced China 46-0, on Sunday but fell to hosts Brazil 12-24, to settle for a silver medal, their only podium position in the season.

    Kenya collected 10 points from the leg below Brazil as they concluded the season in 5th position with 40 points, missing out on promotion.

  • Shujaa returns to HSBC 7’S World Championship series in style

    Shujaa returns to HSBC 7’S World Championship series in style

    Kenya became the third men’s side to qualify for the season-ending HSBC SVNS World Championship Series after accumulating 3 wins from their opening four matches at the final HSBC SVNS Series 2 tournament in Sao Paulo.

    Third in the standings heading into the last of the three HSBC SVNS 2 tournaments, Kenya opened their Sao Paulo account with an impressive 38-7 win over already-qualified Germany.

    Shujaa fell to a shocking 14-12 defeat to Belgium, a result that delayed celebrations for a few hours.

    Eventually the Kevin Wambua charges earned their promotion with a 40-0 win over Canada in the third match on Saturday night.

    Shujaa continued with their fine run, thrashing the USA 31-14 in the fourth match on Sunday evening.

    David Nyagige scored two tries, with George Ooro Angeyo, Chrisant Ojwang and John Ohoth Okeyo adding a try each to extend Kenya’s lead.

    Nygel Pettersan Amaitsa stretched Kenya’s lead with two conversions while Nyagige complemented the result with another conversion.

    Tucker Trickey was on target for the USA’s two tries, which were complemented by Lucas Lacamp conversions.

    Kenya, which will conclude its fixtures against Uruguay on Sunday night, leads the leg on 10 points.

    Shujaa were relegated to division two at the conclusion of the 2024/2025 season.

  • CAF appoints Nigerian Samson Adamu, as the acting General Secretary

    CAF appoints Nigerian Samson Adamu, as the acting General Secretary

    The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has appointed seasoned Nigerian football administrator Samson Adamu as its Acting General Secretary following the resignation of Véron Mosengo-Omba on Sunday.

    The decision, announced by CAF President Patrice Motsepe, represents a dramatic change in the organization that oversees African football.

    Since taking over as Director of Competitions in 2018, he has overseen about 30 different African competitions.

    Adamu is the son of Dr. Amos Adamu, a former member of the FIFA and CAF Executive Committees and an expert in sports administration.

    His permanent status in the role is expected to be discussed at the next CAF General Assembly.

  • CAF to amend statutes and regulations to restore confidence in officiating

    CAF to amend statutes and regulations to restore confidence in officiating

    The Confederation of African Football (CAF) announced on Sunday that it is implementing changes and improvements to its statutes and Regulations that will strengthen the trust and confidence in the referees, VAR operators and the Disciplinary Board and Appeal Board.

    According to CAF, the changes and improvements will also ensure that the incidents that took place at the Final Match of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (“AFCON”) Morocco 2025 do not happen again.

    The announcement was delivered on Sunday after the CAF EXCO meeting in Cairo chaired by President Patrice Motsepe.

    “CAF will continue with the procedure and practice of appointing the best and most respected African judges and lawyers to the CAF Disciplinary Board and Appeal Board. These judges and lawyers are appointed by the CAF EXCO and the CAF Ordinary General Assembly from the names proposed and recommended by 54 CAF Member Associations and Zonal Unions. The independence and impartiality of the CAF Judicial Bodies are imperative,” read the statement.

    Motsepe emphasised that CAF will not condone corruption or indiscipline.

    “Our commitment to zero tolerance for corruption and improper behaviour has been recognised and rewarded by the numerous sponsors and partners that we have gained.”Motsepe said

    The President was, however, sceptical of the recent appeals committee ruling which stripped Senegal of the 2025 AFCON trophy in favour of Morocco, saying that the matter is before CAS.

    “CAF will consistently review and improve on these football and governance global best practices and strengthen the trust and global competitiveness of African football. The matters relating to the incidences that took place at the final match of the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON Morocco 2025 are before CAS, and the primary focus of CAF currently is on the TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup, the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League and the other CAF competitions.” He concluded.

    Sunday’s CAF Exco meeting was the first since the March 17th Appeal board landmark ruling.