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Hugo Broos to ask SAFA for prominent friendly games

Mazola Molefe — Tue, 19 Nov 2024 13:44:00 +0000

South Africa face South Sudan at the Cape Town Stadium tonight having already confirmed their spot at the AFCON in Morocco next year.

Broos has an eye on the next major tournament in 2026, but argues he needs prominent friendly games.

"In March we have two qualifiers but then in June, there's friendly games. We have to pay attention, the Sundowns players will not be there, they are playing the World Cup of the clubs so it should be very bad that CAF or FIFA should organise qualifiers in June. Surely there will be friendly games and I want good opponents," Broos said.

Bafana have current log leaders Rwanda, Benin, Lesotho, Nigeria and Zimbabwe in their group for the global showpiece. The coach believes there will be a lot of mitigating factors in securing quality fixtures.

READ: Ronwen Williams reveals turning point in journey to 50 Bafana Bafana caps

"I don't really believe that every team has already a friendly game for June. I think it's a little bit too soon but okay, now we'll start and look for opponents and see who's free and see who wants to come to South Africa or do we have to go to them,” the coach added.

“We will see now, there is enough time, there is six months and again I should be very, very surprised that all those teams have already accomplished their programs for June.

“I think there are many teams or many countries also who have to take part in that World Cup for clubs. Certainly, the players who are playing in Europe in all those different countries."

Chelsea line up offer for Liverpool star Caoimhin Kelleher

SABC Sport — Tue, 19 Nov 2024 13:11:41 +0000

The Reds have only made two signings in the summer transfer with Federico Chiesa arriving from Juventus and Giorgi Mamardashvili brought in from Valencia, before rejoining the Spanish club on loan for the rest of the season.

And it is the signing of the latter which is causing Kelleher to think carefully about his future with the Republic of Ireland international already behind Alisson in the pecking order at Anfield.

It is unclear whether Mamardashvili is being brought in as competition for Alisson Becker or as a replacement, following rumours that the Brazilian could move on, but either way it seems unlikely Kelleher will get a chance at being Liverpool number one in the long-term.

And recent comments about the Mamardashvili signing seemingly point towards Kelleher's exit with the Liverpool goalkeeper ready to be number one elsewhere.

Kelleher told reporters earlier this season: "I made it clear in the last few years I want to go be a number one and play week in, week out.

"The club made the decision to get another goalkeeper. From the outside looking in, looks like they have made a decision to go in another direction.

"My ambition has always been clear the last few seasons that I want to be a number one.

"Sometimes from the outside looking in, it looks like it is 100 per cent my decision but at times it is not always in my hands."

A report last week also claimed that Kelleher 'wants to quit' Liverpool and 'has let it be known to friends that he will look to move unless he is given assurances of his position.'

And now more reports claim that Premier League rivals Chelsea are 'plotting a summer raid' on Liverpool for Kelleher as they 'line up' a £35m offer.

According to the report: 'Now Chelsea, who are in the market for a top keeper, are tracking the player.

'Sources said that one sticking point is the fact that Liverpool aren't keen to sell such a good player to a potential title rival.

'But if Chelsea match the £35million valuation the club have placed on the player they might be left with little choice.

'Chelsea's pursuit of the player is set to be matched by two Italian giants.

'Juventus and Napoli are both monitoring Kelleher but he is believed to prefer the option of staying in the Premier League if a deal can be done.'

Former Republic of Ireland international Kevin Doyle reckons Kelleher will be one of the best goalkeepers in the world in "five or six years".

Doyle reportedly stated: "I think in five or six years he is going to be in the top one or two goalkeepers in the world.

"He's that good at everything he does. He has got everything in the locker. He ticks every box. If he can get himself playing, I feel he's going to be the top man."

Proteas mentally ready for upcoming Inbound Tour against England

Mpumi Manyisi — Tue, 19 Nov 2024 12:53:54 +0000

The Proteas head into the T20 series and the ICC Women’s Championship at the back of concluding their T20 World Cup campaign as runners up in Dubai.

The Inbound tour gets underway in East London from 27 November at Willowmoore Park.

Speaking to SABC Sport, Britz says the love of cricket makes them overlook the congested fixtures.

"Yeah, I think we are all mentally ready and very eager to get going. I mean, we love cricket at the end of the day so the sooner we get playing, the better. It's great to have three formats, I think a lot of the girls are probably excited for the test as that's going to get played more often,” Britz said.

“We had a bit of down time so we managed to regroup and get ready for the series that's coming ahead."

READ: Beast Mtawarira looking forward to another dominant Boks display in Cardiff

South Africa lost against the English team in the group stage T20 World Cup fixtures last month, and Britz says they are aware they need to prepare well for a team that is coming to revenge having missed on the semi-finals.

"We might have lost against England at the World Cup but we also know what we did to them in the previous World Cup and I must say, I think England is definitely gonna come back harder and stronger due to the fact that they never made a semi-final,” she added.

“We are always ready, no matter what team it is and we managed to get to the final at the end of the day. So, we've got a bit of confidence leading up into the England series."

Brits shares her personal ambitions as the Tour resumes next Wednesday.

"For myself, of course, it's just to contribute to the team. I'm only a batter at the end of the day so if I can make as many runs as possible and get the team to a good position and then yeah, I wouldn't mind two half-centuries in the T20 and maybe a century or two in the ODI's and the yeah maybe even in the test,” she explained.

“The test squad of course hasn't been announced yet so we are still waiting on that but yeah, for myself, I wouldn't mind hitting some of those milestones."

Beast Mtawarira looking forward to another dominant Boks display in Cardiff

Velile Mnyandu — Tue, 19 Nov 2024 12:08:10 +0000

Mtawarira attended this past weekend’s 29-20 win for the Boks over England at the Allianz Stadium in Twickenham.

The 2019 world champion and former Sharks Loosehead Prop also expects Bok coach Rassie Erasmus to ring some changes and give other players a chance against Wales.

"Yeah, no, obviously Wales will also be desperate. You know they've been struggling but I think we can take a lot of confidence. We have a lot of depth, there's a lot of positives you know, so I'm sure Rassie will ring the changes and give the other guys a chance,” Mtawarira said.

“So, I think everyone in that team is hungry, so, whoever he puts on the field is doing the job and I'm sure they'll do the job next week again."

READ: Ronwen Williams reveals turning point in journey to 50 Bafana Bafana caps

Mtawarira was also impressed by the character of the four-time world champions as they showed their class against a desperate English team on home soil.

"It was a wonderful game, it was very competitive from the onset and England played really well, it's just that they didn't have enough and the Springboks are just on a high now,” he added.

“Every player on that Springbok team put their hand up. I'm truly proud of what they are achieving, they are just going higher and higher so this game was a massive milestone for them and congrats to the Bokke.”

Erasmus had spoken about the Boks' need to stamp their authority and improve their record against the hosts at Twickenham before this game, and Mtawarira believes that they achieved that.

"Yes, they have certainly left the stamp. This was a very hungry England side that has lost the last 2-0 biters against New Zealand and Australia so they are very desperate.

“So, for us to come and handle the pressure and be able to put them away comfortably, it's a massive notch on Rassie and the players. It's now becoming a massive hunting ground for us, so hopefully from now on."

Rodrygo's return boosts Real Madrid's hopes ahead of Liverpool clash

SABC Sport — Tue, 19 Nov 2024 11:11:52 +0000

The Brazilian forward, initially expected to be sidelined for five to six weeks due to a thigh injury, has shown remarkable progress, raising hopes of a quicker recovery.

Rodrygo sustained a muscle injury to his left quadriceps during Madrid's 1-1 draw with Osasuna on November 9, only 20 minutes into his return after a previous injury. In that match against Borussia Dortmund, he had been out for 14 days following a left hamstring issue.

His swift recovery from this latest setback has come as a pleasant surprise, with the player already back on the training pitch.

The session marked a significant day for Madrid, with several notable comebacks. Thibaut Courtois also took part in his first group training since suffering an injury over a month ago. His return suggests he could be available for Madrid's next match against Leganes on November 24, set to take place at Estadio Municipal Butarque.

Lucas Vazquez, along with Rodrygo and David Alaba, also trained individually, working on his ball control on the field. Medical staff are optimistic about his readiness for the upcoming Liverpool game, providing a much-needed boost for manager Carlo Ancelotti, particularly in defence.

Meanwhile, Aurelien Tchouameni and Dani Carvajal continue to make progress in their recovery, though Eder Militao faces surgery to repair a torn ACL and damaged meniscus in his right knee, which will keep him out for the foreseeable future.

Ancelotti will be hoping the returning players can bolster his squad as Madrid prepare for their decisive encounter on November 27 at Anfield (22h00).

AFCON qualifying wrap: Morocco the big winners as Ghana's dreadful campaign ends

SABC Sport — Tue, 19 Nov 2024 11:11:41 +0000

Malawi 3-0 Burkina Faso

Already qualified Burkina Faso went down 3-0 to Malawi in their final Africa Cup of Nations Group L match on Monday.

Gabadinho Mhango (28'), Richard Mbulu (57') and Lloyd Aaron were all on target at the Bingu National Stadium.

The result though had little meaning for Malawi, who ended bottom of the pile with four points. Burkina Faso had already secured second place behind leaders Senegal, who play Burundi in their final dead rubber match.

Nigeria 1-2 Rwanda

Goals from Ange Mutsinzi (72') and Innocent Nshuti (75') secured a 2-1 win for Rwanda over Nigeria, who scored through Samuel Chukwueze on 59 minutes.

The win wasn't enough though as Rwanda missed out on qualification on goal-difference to second-placed Benin.

The Super Eagles topped the group, three points clear on 11 points, with Libya at the bottom with just five points.

Sudan 0-0 Angola

Sudan and Angola played out a goalless draw at the Martyrs of February Stadium on Monday.

The result had no baring on the standings though with Angola ending on top of Group F with 14 points, with Sudan in second place on eight points.

Niger ended in third place, while Ghana somehow only managed to pick up three points during their campaign, to end bottom of the pile.

Libya 0-0 Benin

Libya and Benin also played to a goalless draw, but Benin were keeping an eye on the other result on Group D with their qualification still on the line.

Rwanda went on to shock Nigeria with a 2-1 win to end level with Benin on eight points, but ultimaltely missed out on goal difference.

The Super Eagles topped the group, three points clear on 11 points, with Libya at the bottom with just five points.

Ghana 1-2 Niger

Ghana suffered a 2-1 defeat to Niger in their final AFCON qualifier.

Ousseini Badamassi (22') and Oumar Sako (92') were on target to cancel out a 67th Jeremia Afriyie leveller.

The result had little bearing on the final group standings though as Niger ended on seven points, a point adrift of Sudan, while Ghana took fourth place with just three points.

Tunisia 0-1 Gambia

Gambia's 1-0 win over Tunisia wasn't enough to secure their qualification.

Abdiulie Ceesay scored the only goal of the game on 17 minutes.

The result left Gambia third in Group A with eight points as Tunisia took second spot with 10 points.

Comoros took top spot with 12 points and Madagascar recorded two points to sit bottom of the pile.

Comoros 1-0 Madagascar

Comoros claimed their place at the top of Group A with a 1-0 win over Madagascar where Yacine Bourhane was on target after 47 minutes.

CAR 0-1 Gabon

Guelor Kanga netted a 74th minute penalty as Gabon defeated the Central African Republic 1-0 in their final AFCON qualifier.

Again the result had no consequence as Morocco ran out group winners, with 18 points, ahead of Gabon on four points.

Lesotho in third with four points and CAR in four with three, saw their AFCON dreams come to an end.

Morocco 7-0 Lesotho

Morocco asserted their dominance in Group B with a 7-0 win over Lesotho to end their qualifiers.

Brahim Diaz (5', 15', 42') netted a hat-trick. Soufiane Rahim (37', 45+2 P) scored twice, alongside a goal apiece from Youssef En-Nesyri (68') and Ismael Saibari (70').

Bayern Munich push for Jamal Musiala, Joshua Kimmich contact extensions

SABC Sport — Tue, 19 Nov 2024 10:11:17 +0000

The club are keen to secure Musiala's services until 2029, with discussions progressing positively.

The 21-year-old, who has become a key figure for both Bayern and the Germany national team, is reportedly close to agreeing to the deal. However, it is still unclear whether the contract will include a signing bonus.

The potential four-year deal could cost Bayern around 120 million euro in total.

Musiala, who has previously stated his intention to focus on his performances, recently said: "It's important for me to stay fit and perform well until I have a bit of time to relax. Then I can take my time and think about everything.

"I think we'll know more during the winter break."

Despite the financial offers on the table, Musiala remains focused on his current responsibilities with Bayern and the national team. "I know a lot of people are looking at my situation, but I'm trying to put as little pressure on myself as possible," he added.

Meanwhile, Bayern Munich are also working to extend Joshua Kimmich's contract, though negotiations may prove challenging.

With Kimmich's deal set to expire in 2025, the club's sporting director, Max Eberl, is under pressure to secure his long-term future.

After a turbulent period under former coach Thomas Tuchel, Kimmich has regained his status as a pivotal player under new manager Vincent Kompany. Kompany values Kimmich as one of his most important assets, alongside Musiala and Harry Kane.

Kimmich recently acknowledged the complexities of his situation. "I am in dialogue with the club and that will continue. Eight or ten weeks ago the situation was different. People were saying, 'When is Kimmich going to leave?' The decision has to be carefully considered.

"Of course, the past plays a role, but so does the future."

With the January transfer window approaching, Kimmich could begin talks with other clubs, as interest from both Spain and England grows. Bayern are keen to resolve his future, but time is running out for Eberl to secure his long-term commitment.

Richmond United coach disappointed for failing to reach HWBSL club target

Mpumi Manyisi — Tue, 19 Nov 2024 10:03:33 +0000

This after the Northern Cape outfit fell short of securing a top eight spot for the first time since the inception of the league in 2019.

The red army wrapped up the current campaign at 10th place on the log behind Royal AM Ladies.

Speaking to SABC Sport, Lisene says that the team started to lose its momentum in the second quarter of the league, and is hurt that they never got to bounce back.

“I must admit that things did not go as planned this season. We started well, we were consistent in the top four from the beginning of the season until around May, so that’s where things changed. As a coach I am really disappointed,” said Lisene.

READ: Dhlamini and Motau among best performing 11 of CAF Women's CL group stages

Lisene did admit that this season’s result does put his job under fire.

“Yes, things are not looking good, I doubt you will see me with the team next season. But I can’t talk much about that. A lot will be revealed soon,” added Lisene.

Lisene’s passion for women’s football goes a long way, having enjoyed an illustrious career as a women’s football coach spanning over three decades, with his first coaching job at Bloemfontein Celtic Ladies in the 80s.

He shared more regarding his commitment to the women’s game.

“I love women’s football, this dates from way back. I always make sure I have a good relationship with my players. I play a father figure role - because I know they look up to me. I feel sad that we didn’t get to live up to expectations this season,” he expressed.

The 51-year-old further shares insights on what can help the team to perform better next season.

“The team has faced so many challenges behind the scenes. It will be important to sort those issues heading into the new season. It is a matter of going back to the drawing board and unpack what went wrong and try to rectify all those mistakes. I mean the league is becoming tougher every season and the team will have to keep up,” he concluded.

Dhlamini and Motau among best performing 11 of CAF Women's CL group stages

Matlhomola Morake — Tue, 19 Nov 2024 09:38:24 +0000

The selection was done by the CAF Technical Study Group (TSG), comprising African football experts, coaches, analysts and technical advisors.

Dhlamini and Motau, whose teams were eliminated in the group stages, are the only South Africans on the list of 11 players – and the only pair not contesting the semi-finals.

FC Masar coach, Ahmad Ramadhan has been chosen as the best coach, leading a team made up of four AS FAR players, two each from Edo Queens and FC Masar. Sundowns Ladies, UWC and TP Mazembe have one each.

The goalkeeping gloves have been handed to Khadija ER-Rmichi (AS FAR) who conceded only one goal in the group stages.

Making up her defence are Nouhaila Benzina (AS FAR), Shadia Nankya (FC Masar), Cordelia Odoma (TP Mazembe) and Dhlamini.

READ: Banyana Banyana to know identity of WAFCON opponents on Friday

In the middle of the park Motau is assisted by Sanaa Mssoudy (AS FAR) and Sandrine Niyonkuru (FC Masar), while the strike force is made up of Emem Essien (Edo Queens), Lacho Marta (TP Mazembe) as well as the lethal Doha El Madani (AS FAR) who is currently the leading goal scorer on seven goals with two games remaining in the tournament.

Mssoudy was also named the best performing player in the group stages.

Meanwhile, action continues this afternoon when the semi-finals get underway in Morocco.

Fireworks are expected in the much-anticipated clash between two debutants TP Mazembe and Edo Queens at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca.

Kickoff is at 4pm South African time.

In a later kick-off (7pm SA Time), 2022 champions and hosts AS FAR will be hoping to get one over debutants FC Masar of Egypt in a North African derby at the M’Hamed El Adbi Stadium in El Jadida.

All four teams progressed to the last four without defeat.

The final will be played on Saturday (23 November) with the third place play-off scheduled for Friday (22 November).

Seven Man Utd stars face January exit under Ruben Amorim

SABC Sport — Tue, 19 Nov 2024 09:11:48 +0000

Amorim was appointed on November 1 after the Red Devils sacked Erik ten Hag earlier that week, while he had to wait until last Monday to begin work after taking charge of his last Sporting Lisbon match against Braga before the international break.

And now Amorim can get to work fixing Man Utd with the Red Devils currently 13th in the Premier League table after a disastrous start to the new season.

Ten Hag's side won three of their first nine Premier League matches before interim boss Ruud van Nistelrooy put another four points on the board in their last two fixtures.

Amorim, who took charge of his first training session this week, has his work cut out as he attempts to implement a new formation and decide which players he wants to keep at the club.

According to various media reports, seven of the Man Utd first-team squad are at risk of being sold under Amorim and, 'with the January transfer window approaching rapidly on the horizon, he could be in line for some difficult decisions.'

Man Utd centre-back Harry Maguire is 'among seven stars whose Manchester United careers could end' under the Portuguese boss, while 'Christian Eriksen, Victor Lindelof and Jonny Evans are all out of contract next summer and could be set for exits'.

The report adds: 'Other stars out of contract include former captain Harry Maguire. He was linked with West Ham last summer and could bid farewell after dropping down the pecking order, albeit the Red Devils holding an option to extend his deal by a further year.

'United also have a similar arrangement with Amad Diallo. The Ivorian winger has managed to establish himself at Old Trafford this season and talks over a new deal are expected.

'While Casemiro and Tyrell Malacia still have 18 months left on their respective deals, they still face scrutiny over their futures. The Brazilian has long been linked with a move away and the Red Devils could choose to cash in so they do not lose him for nothing.

'Malacia is also out of contract in 2026. The Dutchman has only just returned to action following a lengthy injury layoff so any talks might be paused until he is fully fit.'

Frenkie de Jong prioritises fitness with early return to FC Barcelona

SABC Sport — Tue, 19 Nov 2024 09:11:13 +0000

De Jong, alongside Virgil van Dijk, has left the national team camp ahead of Tuesday's match against Bosnia to avoid overloading their schedules.

The Barcelona midfielder had hinted at his possible absence from the fixture, citing lingering effects from a recent ankle injury.

Speaking about his recovery, De Jong admitted: "I still feel some sensitivity when I play due to the injury. I need more matches and minutes to regain confidence. It's not a risk, but the feeling isn't the same as before."

Acknowledging these concerns, Koeman opted to release De Jong early to prioritise his fitness.

"For both Frenkie and Virgil, it's better to leave the camp at this stage," Koeman explained.

"This decision was made for medical reasons, focusing on the players' best interests."

De Jong will now concentrate on his gradual return to form as he prepares for Barcelona's upcoming La Liga clash against Celta Vigo.

The Dutchman recently made his first start of the season against Real Sociedad but was substituted at half-time as he works towards full match fitness.

Barcelona fans will be eager to see De Jong regain his rhythm, with his midfield presence crucial to the team's aspirations in the weeks ahead.

Banyana Banyana to know identity of WAFCON opponents on Friday

Matlhomola Morake — Tue, 19 Nov 2024 08:34:16 +0000

The draw for the 13th edition of the tournament will commence at 9pm South African time and will be held at Mohammed VI Technical Centre in Sale.

The 2024 competition was scheduled to be played in June/July this year but clashed with the Olympic Games in Paris.

The WAFCON was then postponed to July 2025.

Morocco qualified as hosts, joined by South Africa, Algeria, Ghana, Botswana, DR Congo, Tunisia, Senegal, Nigeria, Mali, Tanzania and Zambia.

“It’s inching closer to the tournament and we can’t wait to know who we will face in defence of our title. Knowing your opponents early helps in terms of profiling them and getting the right personnel to take to the competition, so yes we will be watching with keen interest as to who we draw,” said Banyana Banyana coach Desiree Ellis.

READ: Ronwen Williams reveals turning point in journey to 50 Bafana Bafana caps

The South Africans won the tournament in 2022 after defeating Morocco 2-1 in the final.

Nigeria is the most successful country in the competition as they have won it a record 11 times, and will be making their 15 appearances, just one more that South Africa.

Making a return to the continental women’s tournament is Tanzania, who last played in 2010 and 2024 will be their second participation.

After being almost ever present, Ghana return to the scene after missing out in 2022. They were hosts in their last appearance in 2018.

South Africa, Nigeria, Zambia, Morocco, Botswana, Senegal and Tunisia were part of the 12^th edition in 2022, while Algeria, DR Congo, Algeria and Mali missed out.

Banyana have played a number of friendly matches to prepare for the defence of their title, facing Senegal in two games, as well as Denmark and England – all matches were away.

The South Africans will close off the year with a visit to Jamaica for two fixtures on 29 November and 2 December, and Ellis is expected to announce her squad in the next few days.

Aleksandar Pavlovic closer to Bayern Munich return after injury lay-off

SABC Sport — Tue, 19 Nov 2024 08:11:48 +0000

The 20-year-old midfielder, sidelined since September, was seen warming up with the squad before continuing with individual drills, as reported by Sky Germany.

Pavlovic's return to the pitch marked the first time he had trained alongside his teammates since sustaining the injury earlier in the season.

Initially, it was feared he would miss the rest of 2024. However, his progress has given Bayern hope of seeing him back in action before the year's end.

The Serbian midfielder had been a key figure in Bayern's early campaign, starting regularly alongside Joshua Kimmich in midfield and making nine appearances before his setback. His potential return would be a timely boost for Vincent Kompany's side as they push for domestic and European success.

Meanwhile, former Germany manager Joachim Low has reflected on the pivotal role he played in convincing Jamal Musiala to commit to the German national team over England.

In an interview with Kicker, Low revealed how he and then-DFB sporting director Oliver Bierhoff made a personal trip to Munich in 2021 to meet Musiala and his family.

"He was torn between England, where he grew up and had his friends, and Germany," Low said. "I promised him something I had never done before, if he chose Germany, he would be part of the squad for Euro 2021, even though he wasn't a Bayern regular yet."

Musiala, then an England Under-21 international, honoured his German roots by debuting for the senior team in March 2021. True to Low's word, he featured in that summer's European Championship.

Now 21, Musiala has become a cornerstone of Germany's midfield, amassing 37 caps with seven goals and eight assists, cementing his place as one of the brightest talents in international football.

Roundup: Croatia and Denmark seal UEFA Nations League quarter-final spots

SABC Sport — Tue, 19 Nov 2024 08:11:34 +0000

Both teams secured their places in the last eight, joining France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain.

Croatia's Gvardiol Rescues Quarter-Final Place

Croatia 1-1 Portugal

In Split, Josko Gvardiol's second-half goal ensured Croatia advanced to the quarter-finals.

Joao Felix put Portugal ahead in the 33rd minute with a clinical finish, but Zlatko Dalic's tactical changes turned the tide. Substitute Kristijan Jakic's pinpoint cross found Gvardiol at the far post in the 65th minute, and the defender coolly slotted home to send the home crowd into raptures.

Scotland's Late Heroics Relegate Poland

Poland 1-2 Scotland

Scotland avoided direct relegation from League A thanks to Andy Robertson's dramatic stoppage-time header in Poland.

John McGinn gave the visitors an early lead, and Billy Gilmour and Scott McTominay both hit the woodwork in their search for a second. Poland levelled through Kamil PiÃ„…tkowski's stunning long-range strike, but Robertson's late intervention sealed the win and confirmed Poland's relegation.

Denmark Hold On in Serbia

Serbia 0-0 Denmark

Denmark secured their quarter-final spot with a hard-fought goalless draw in Leskovac.

Kasper Schmeichel was pivotal, making key saves to deny Dusan Vlahovic. At the other end, Aleksandar Mitrovic's acrobatic clearance stopped Mikkel Damsgaard's header from breaking the deadlock. Serbia's Strahinja Pavlovic was sent off late in the match, leaving the hosts in the League A/B play-offs.

Other Highlights

Spain Edge Thriller Against Switzerland: Bryan Zaragoza's stoppage-time penalty earned Spain a dramatic 3-2 win, keeping their unbeaten record intact.

San Marino Make History: A 3-1 victory in Liechtenstein marked San Marino's largest-ever win and secured their promotion to League C.

Northern Ireland Promoted: Despite blowing a two-goal lead in a 2-2 draw with Luxembourg, Northern Ireland achieved promotion to League B.

Monday's Results:

Group A1: Croatia 1-1 Portugal, Poland 1-2 Scotland

Group A4: Serbia 0-0 Denmark, Spain 3-2 Switzerland

Group C2: Kosovo 1-0 Lithuania, Romania 4-1 Cyprus

Group C3: Bulgaria 1-1 Belarus, Luxembourg 2-2 Northern Ireland

Group D1: Liechtenstein 1-3 San Marino

Roger Federer pens emotional letter tennis husband Rafael Nadal

SABC Sport — Tue, 19 Nov 2024 08:11:26 +0000

The pair - fondly known as Fedal to fans - enjoyed an epic rivalry that transcended tennis as they took the sport onto a new level.

Swiss great retired after the 2022 Laver Cup and Nadal was by his side as they played doubles together and now it is the Spaniard's turn to bow out as he has confirmed the Davis Cup Finals in Malaga will be his last top-level event.

Federer, who hasn't confirmed if he will be in Spain for Nadal's farewell, took to social media to say goodbye to his friend.

Here is his letter in full:

Vamos, Rafa!

As you get ready to graduate from tennis, I've got a few things to share before I maybe get emotional.

Let's start with the obvious: you beat me - a lot. More than I managed to beat you. You challenged me in ways no one else could. On clay, it felt like I was stepping into your backyard, and you made me work harder than I ever thought I could just to hold my ground. You made me reimagine my game - even going so far as to change the size of my racquet head, hoping for any edge.

I'm not a very superstitious person, but you took it to the next level. Your whole process. All those rituals. Assembling your water bottles like toy soldiers in formation, fixing your hair, adjusting your underwear. All of it with the highest intensity. Secretly, I kind of loved the whole thing. Because it was so unique - it was so you.

And you know what, Rafa, you made me enjoy the game even more.

OK, maybe not at first. After the 2004 Australian Open, I achieved the #1 ranking for the first time. I thought I was on top of the world. And I was - until two months later, when you walked on the court in Miami in your red sleeveless shirt, showing off those biceps, and you beat me convincingly. All that buzz I'd been hearing about you - about this amazing young player from Mallorca, a generational talent, probably going to win a major someday - it wasn't just hype.

We were both at the start of our journey and it's one we ended up taking together. Twenty years later, Rafa, I have to say: What an incredible run you've had. Including 14 French Opens - historic! You made Spain proud, you made the whole tennis world proud.

I keep thinking about the memories we've shared. Promoting the sport together. Playing that match on half-grass, half-clay. Breaking the all-time attendance record by playing in front of more than 50,000 fans in Cape Town, South Africa. Always cracking each other up. Wearing each other out on the court and then, sometimes, almost literally having to hold each other up during trophy ceremonies.

I'm still grateful you invited me to Mallorca to help launch the Rafa Nadal Academy in 2016. Actually, I kind of invited myself. I knew you were too polite to insist on me being there, but I didn't want to miss it. You have always been a role model for kids around the world, and Mirka and I are so glad that our children have all trained at your academies. They had a blast and learned so much - like thousands of other young players. Although I always worried my kids would come home playing tennis as lefties.

And then there was London - the Laver Cup in 2022. My final match. It meant everything to me that you were there by my side - not as my rival but as my doubles partner. Sharing the court with you that night, and sharing those tears, will forever be one of the most special moments of my career.

Rafa, I know you're focused on the last stretch of your epic career. We will talk when it's done. For now, I just want to congratulate your family and team, who all played a massive role in your success. And I want you to know that your old friend is always cheering for you, and will be cheering just as loud for everything you do next.

Rafa that!

Best always, your fan,

Roger

Temba Bavuma, Marco Jansen and Gerald Coetzee return to Proteas Test squad

Nasri Alexander — Tue, 19 Nov 2024 08:11:09 +0000

Bavuma missed the two matches in Bangladesh which the Proteas won emphatically under the leadership of Aiden Markram to stay on course for a place in the World Test Championship (WTC) final.

The 14-man squad also sees the return of all-rounder Marco Jansen and fast bowler Gerald Coetzee, who rejoin the Test set-up for the first time since the home series against India last summer.

Kagiso Rabada, Dane Paterson and all-rounder Wiaan Mulder complete the pace attack with Lungi Ngidi ruled out for the remainder of the summer due to injury.

Keshav Maharaj and Senuran Muthusamy have been named as the two frontline spinners for the series.

Proteas Test coach Shukri Conrad said: "It's great to have Temba back leading the side after his recovery. His leadership and skill are invaluable to the team.

"I'd also like to thank Aiden for stepping up and captaining the side so successfully during the Bangladesh series.

"It's also pleasing to welcome back Marco and Gerald to the Test side. Both have worked incredibly hard during their conditioning programmes, and it's great to see them back in the fold, ready to contribute to the team."

The second Test of the series will be played at St George's Park in Gqeberha from 5 December with the Proteas needing a series victory to stay in contention in the WTC.

Conrad's charges will then host Pakistan in the Boxing Day and New Year's matches to conclude their games in the current cycle.

"We are excited to be back on home soil after being on the road for some time," the head coach said. "It's always a great feeling to play in front of our supporters and deliver our best cricket at home.

"We've picked the strongest possible side to ensure we stay competitive and keep our hopes alive for a place in the World Test Championship Final."

Proteas Test squad: Temba Bavuma (captain), David Bedingham, Gerald Coetzee, Tony de Zorzi, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, Wiaan Mulder, Senuran Muthusamy, Dane Paterson, Kagiso Rabada, Tristan Stubbs, Ryan Rickelton and Kyle Verreynne.

Ronwen Williams reveals turning point in journey to 50 Bafana Bafana caps

Mazola Molefe — Tue, 19 Nov 2024 07:37:24 +0000

The Mamelodi Sundowns shot stopper was handed his first start for the national team by then coach Gordon Igesund at FNB Stadium, which turned out to be a baptism of fire as the Samba Boys put five past the young keeper.

Now closing in on half a century games years later, Williams said the criticism that night only made him stronger.

"The most important game for me was the first game which was against Brazil, even though we lost 5-0, I still have so many memories and that game that taught me so much. It's probably the reason why I am where I am today because I had to persevere, I was called many names and it made me stronger at such a young age,” Williams said.

“I think I was 22 years old and there were so many doubts for many, many years and that game just turned me into a man and that was probably the most important game that I've played for Bafana."

READ: Attorney gives update on Elias Mokwana contract breach with Esperance:

During the AFCON in Cote d’Ivoire earlier this year, Williams produced the form that got him a Ballon d’Or nomination.

He also made the shortlist for the CAF awards next month, believing these are the results of his hard work paying off.

"Definitely, I mean it took years and years of sacrifice and the main thing is just perseverance, not giving up like I said, my international career didn't start in the best note,” the goalkeeper added.

“For long I had to fight that and overcome it and it was difficult, some moments it was difficult, some moments you just tried and played it off but it just couldn't leave me. People kept bringing that up and it just stuck with me for such a long time that I had to have a wonderful AFCON at the highest level for people maybe to finally let it go, even though it happened 10 years ago, people still brought it up.

“So, for me, it was just about controlling what I could control was my experiences that I've gained over the last few years, my performance, the way I see the game and just to put Bafana where it rightfully deserves to be.

“I think over the last few years, it's been good for us and we just need to continue doing that, continue fighting and when things are tough just persevere because eventually things will turn out for you if you remain professional, if you continue doing the right things and that's what I live by, doing the right things all the time and just being professional."

Liverpool and Real Madrid's Murillo hopes dashed by Forest stance

SABC Sport — Tue, 19 Nov 2024 07:11:37 +0000

Forest find themselves flying high in the Premier League. They are currently fifth, ahead of the likes of Newcastle, Aston Villa and Tottenham.

The squad is currently very much on song, but one of the standout performers has been Murillo, with the centre-back a vital pillar in a defence who have conceded 10 goals in 11 games, only Liverpool have conceded less often this season.

The Reds are, in fact, one of the sides who have been linked with the signing of Murillo amid his good form, along with elite club Real Madrid, and others.

However, according to recent reports, Forest won't consider January offers for the centre-back.

They are said to be confident that his long contract, expiring in 2028, provides 'sufficient leverage' to reject January bids.

It was revealed recently that Murillo featured on a centre-back shortlist for Liverpool which also includes Goncalo Inacio and Loic Bade.

Part of the reason they are looking into centre-back signings is because Virgil van Dijk's contract is up at the end of the season, and he is yet to pen a new deal.

But that means that until the summer, they don't desperately need reinforcements in the centre of defence, and the Reds are reportedly planning to monitor Murillo this season before choosing whether or not to pull the trigger at the end of the season.

As such, Forest's January stance is not a massive problem, but for Real, who have Eder Militao and David Alaba currently sidelined, they might take more of an issue, and decide to move onto another target.

Liverpool are also eyeing some quality attackers, with Christian Pulisic said to be on the radar for a transfer.

As is Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, though it's believed Paris Saint-Germain are preparing an enormous offer for his services.

Meanwhile, Manchester United are said to be in contact over a deal for Liverpool target Milos Kerkez, from Bournemouth.

But there is some good news in that Trent Alexander-Arnold is apparently nearing a contract extension, keeping him away from Real Madrid.

Novak Djokovic will continue to be a problem, says Jim Courier

SABC Sport — Tue, 19 Nov 2024 07:11:26 +0000

The former world No. 1 assessed, though, that this year was "a big shift" as Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz split the four Grand Slam titles between them.

Djokovic's two victories against top 10 players in 2024 were against Carlos Alcaraz in the Paris Olympics gold medal match and Taylor Fritz in the Shanghai Masters semi-finals.

The legendary Serb's four defeats to opponents ranked in the top 10 this year came against Jannik Sinner (twice), Casper Ruud and Alcaraz.

The 37-year-old's superb Olympic triumph was his only title of the season, while he was also a runner-up at Wimbledon and in Shanghai.

Sinner won the Australian Open and the US Open this year, while Alcaraz did the French Open-Wimbledon double. Djokovic won his 24th and most recent major at the 2023 US Open.

Speaking on the Tennis Channel Inside-In podcast, Courier assessed Djokovic's 2024 campaign and pointed to the meniscus injury he suffered at the French Open.

"Well, let's factor in that he might have won Roland Garros this year, right? He's playing there, he's starting to find his form - he gets injured," the American said.

"And then it was a miracle for him to even make it to the starting line at Wimbledon, let alone get to the final on basically one leg. And he clearly was not moving at the level he needed to to compete with Carlos in that final.

"But then, lo and behold, a month later he's wearing a gold medal, and you could see the difference in his movement from there.

"But after that, it didn't seem that he was as engaged when he came across for the US [Open], and frankly I was surprised he played Shanghai.

"I thought he might just pull the pin on the rest of the season and hit the reboot button. But, went to Shanghai and made the finals there, another good effort."

The four-time Grand Slam champion argued that Djokovic, who finishes the season as the world No 7, will remain a serious threat to the top players.

"Novak, I think will continue to stay around and be a problem for the top guys," Courier added. "But it's going to be up to him how much he is going to engage with them, and it's certainly not going to be on a full level.

"So, this year is, no question, a big shift. All four of the majors went to the youth."

Pep Guardiola blocks James McAtee exit amid Man City injury woes

SABC Sport — Tue, 19 Nov 2024 07:11:26 +0000

McAtee has played just six times for City this season, and only three games from the start, including the Community Shield. The 22-year-old is clearly not a priority for Pep Guardiola just yet.

But amid interest from West Ham and an injury crisis, the manager will not let him go.

According to Football Insider, the City boss does not want to weaken his squad as the club hunts a fifth successive Premier League title, especially amid injury problems.

It is also believed that McAtee is held in high regard by City.

Though his opportunities could be limited, with two of his starts coming in the League Cup, a competition the club are no longer in, injuries could mean the Englishman sees more action.

Interest from West Ham in the attacking-midfielder was reported of late.

It is believed the Hammers feel they could soon lose Lucas Paqueta, and want McAtee to take his place if that happens.

As such, £20million has been set aside for the snare of the City man.

Given it doesn't seem that will cut it, the 14th-placed Premier League side would be best served finding another target if they do feel Paqueta could be gone by the end of January.

Meanwhile, it's believed the Premier League champions are confident that Erling Haaland will pen a new deal, following their reported offer of £500,000 per week, which is an English record.

And it's believed that Mikel Arteta could potentially look to take over as the City boss at some point in the future.

Currently, City have 10 players sidelined, and five of those play in the midfield.

The current injury list includes Rodri, Oscar Bobb, Jack Grealish, Phil Foden, Matheus Nunes, Jeremy Doku, John Stones, Ruben Dias, Manuel Akanji and Nathan Ake.

As such, it is little surprise that McAtee is being held onto, with Guardiola aware he might well need him to play an elevated role, especially with Foden, Grealish and Bobb, three players similar to the youngster, out of action at the moment.

Boks not underestimating woeful Wales in final tour clash

SABC Sport — Tue, 19 Nov 2024 06:11:21 +0000

While the Springboks will be hunting their third successive victory to win all of their Castle Lager Outgoing Tour matches - a feat last achieved in 2013 - Wales, who advanced to the Rugby World Cup quarter-final just over a year ago, are under immense pressure to sway their fortunes in front of their home crowd.

"Wales showed against Australia what a gutsy team they are because although they started the match slowly, they fought back strongly before Australia pulled away in the end," said Davids.

"Their scrums were good, and they are a physical side with good structures. They may not be in a good place (given their recent results), but we respect them as a team, and they've proven against us in the past that they are one of those sides that just don't go away.

"Over and above that we approach each game with pride and respect for the opposition, and our main objective is to go out there and always give our best."

With Bok powerhouse, prop Ox Nche, forced to leave the field against England last weekend, Davids gave encouraging news regarding the cut on his leg, saying he would participate in training this week and was available for selection.

Springbok prop Gerhard Steenekamp agreed with Davids' sentiments about the threat Wales posed, and said they were areas the Boks needed to improve on as well to achieve their goal of finishing the tour on a winning note.

"There are a lot of areas we can improve on, and adding to that, there is no such thing as an easy Test match," said Steenekamp. "So, we cannot afford to take our foot of the pedal. We need to go out there on Saturday and build on what we have done in the last two weeks."

Springbok head coach Rassie Erasmus will name his match-23 for the Test on Tuesday, and asked if there was a temptation to send some players home who are not included in the match-day squad, Davids said that is a decision for the head coach: "At this stage everyone will train with us this week."

When quizzed about team selection after Erasmus' comments following the England match that he would like to give everyone in the group a chance to play on tour if possible, Davids said: "We always try to select the best team we can according to the opposition's strengths, and we really want to win this Test match, so we need to get the balance right between getting the desired results and also building for the future.

"The luxury with this squad is that we have a core group of senior players, who can bring experience and leadership, but every player in this squad has what it takes to play at this level."

Asked specifically about Johan Grobbelaar (hooker) and the only uncapped player in the squad Cameron Hanekom (loose forward), the lineout and maul specialist said: "Johan has obviously been with us longer than Cameron, and unfortunately he plays in one of those positions where there are established players in Malcolm (Marx) and Bongi (Mbonambi), but I'm sure if he were to get an opportunity he'll want to use it."

Of Hanekom, Davids said: "He's a great athlete, a good learner, and he covers all the positions in the loose trio, so he is a talented player who has a lot to offer."

Reflecting on the first two weeks of the Castle Lager Outgoing Tour, Steenekamp said: "This is my first November tour (with the Springboks), and it's been an amazing experience. I'm trying to learn as much as I can every day, and it remains an honour to play with some of the best players in the world. It still feels like a dream, so I'm just trying to soak in as much as I can."

The powerful prop expanded on his statement saying: "Every player in the squad has high standards, so as a young player in the group, it's important for me to keep up with them and to do my best to contribute to the team."

The Springboks travelled from London to Cardiff via bus on Sunday and began their on-field preparations for the Test on Monday afternoon.

Report: Man Utd target Barcelona star Jules Kounde

SABC Sport — Mon, 18 Nov 2024 14:11:54 +0000

The Red Devils sacked Erik ten Hag at the end of October after a terrible run of form which saw them win just three of their first nine Premier League matches.

Ruud van Nistelrooy added another four points on the board during his two games in charge at Old Trafford before Man Utd appointed Amorim as Ten Hag's successor.

Amorim has a big task on his hands to turn around their fortunes with Man Utd currently sitting 13th in the Premier League table after 11 matches.

The former Sporting Lisbon boss is set to take his 3-4-3 formation to Man Utd when he takes charge of his first match at the weekend against newly-promoted Ipswich Town, who beat Tottenham in their last match.

A possible system change has raised concerns that Man Utd will have to dip back into the transfer market in January after spending big sums over the summer on Matthijs de Ligt, Joshua Zirkzee, Manuel Ugarte, Leny Yoro and Noussair Mazraoui.

And reports in Spain claim that 'on Amorim's orders' Man Utd have 'reached' 65m euro (£54m) for Barcelona defender Kounde with the France international one of Amorim's 'first requests as soon as he arrived at Old Trafford'.

Man Utd have 'already prepared a first offensive' worth 65m euro but Barcelona president Joan Laporta and sporting director Deco 'consider him essential' to their plans.

Although last summer they 'did consider selling Kounde if they received an interesting offer, they now want absolutely nothing to do with this possibility'.

Barcelona want his termination clause if they are to let him go and 'considering that Kounde's release clause is set at a prohibitive Ã¢‚¬1billion, it seems unlikely that he could end up at United or anywhere else, so it is an option that can be said to have been completely ruled out.'

Attorney gives update on Elias Mokwana contract breach with Esperance

Mazola Molefe — Mon, 18 Nov 2024 15:55:49 +0000

The public broadcaster broke the news that the 25-year-old, who joined Esperance from Sekhukhune United in August, had communicated – through his attorney Kabelo Mashigo – that he would walk away if the matter was not resolved.

It’s understood Mokwana was owed money, and his representatives had sent the club notice of a possible termination.

But Mashigo now says the two parties have found an amicable way to resolve the drama, which threw Tunisian media into a tailspin over the weekend.

Asked whether this issue would not rear its ugly head once more, Mashigo threatened to throw the rule book at Esperance if it does.

“No, we have made it clear that this cannot happen again, and the enforcement of applicable regulations will be applied without further notice, should anything like this ever happen,” the lawyer explained.

“On Friday we had a discussion with the club, and we were able to find each other. The club has essentially rectified its breach, meaning they are no longer in breach and have complied with the terms of the contract to date.”

Mokwana is currently in camp with Bafana Bafana and started in their 2-0 win over Uganda on the day Mashigo spoke with the club.

South Africa face South Sudan in a dead rubber Africa Cup of Nations qualifier in Cape Town on Tuesday, having already secured their ticket to Morocco next year.

“Elias will be returning to Tunis to fulfil his obligations as per the contract, once he is done with national duty,” his attorney assured the public broadcaster.

READ: Elias Mokwana shares 2026 FIFA World Cup dream

Roger Feutmba: Bafana Bafana could reach 2025 AFCON final

Matlhomola Morake — Mon, 18 Nov 2024 15:23:01 +0000

The South Africans qualified for the continental showpiece with two games to spare and are now top of Group K in the qualifiers – yet to lose a game in five outings.

READ: Bafana celebrate AFCON qualification with victory in Uganda

Hugo Broos’ charges take on South Sudan to wrap their campaign up in Cape Town tomorrow afternoon, and Feutmba says he will not be surprised if Bafana go all the way in Morocco next year.

"I always go for Bafana Bafana, not just because I see myself as part of South Africa today, but because of the quality football they are playing," said the 56-year-old.

"It's quality, quality football, and I won't be surprise if, at the next AFCON, they will even go to the final."

Feutmba waxed lyrical about Bafana, saying he loves the new-look team as they make football beautiful on the eye.

"This Bafana is my favourite team because, personally, I love that type of football, that is the type of football I was playing," he added.

"It's quality, positive football, moving forward, making football look beautiful, and also being realistic, scoring goals. It's that convincing football that wins games.

"And Bafana Bafana, personally, I believe they are on the right track and they will really do well even at the next AFCON, so I'm confident that moving forward they will do very well."

#AFCON2025Q |ðŸ†

š½ï¸South Africa ðŸ‡¿ðŸ‡¦ðŸ†š South Sudan ðŸ‡¸ðŸ‡¸

Who will reign supreme on the pitch! š½ï¸

ðŸ-…Tue, 19 Nov
²ï¸17:30
ðŸ-ºSABC 3
ðŸ-²Stream on: https://t.co/26PdrPrnVE #SABCSportFootball pic.twitter.com/rOcEQRlo9C
— SABC Sport (@SABC_Sport) November 18, 2024

Coach Mitchell Stevens set for JVW exit

Mpumi Manyisi — Mon, 18 Nov 2024 14:16:28 +0000

Stevens, who started as a video analyst and was promoted to senior coach in 2022, leaves the Bedfordview outfit at fifth place on the log – 10 points behind University of Johannesburg in the current Hollywoodbets Super League campaign.

Stevens believes the club’s financial challenges might be the reason behind his lay off.

“Regarding my contract, yes, it’s not being renewed, so I won’t be involved next year at all. Financially there are a lot of restraints in women’s football and a lot of challenges,” Stevens tells SABC Sport.

“Any money coming in needs to be guided towards the people that need to make a living off it. Again, this is my understanding, not what I know, just what I think.”

He also suggests the club owner and former Banyana Banyana captain Janine van Wyk seems to be at a point where she is ready to take over as the club’s head coach.

“I think it’s just a case of Janine wanting to take the responsibility again, having been back in the country now for a year and half, and to lead the club again,” he adds.

“We will see that much next season, with Janine being at the helm of everything and taking responsibility and driving the club forward. Which I fully understand, it is her club.”

The 59-year-old has helped JWV to finish in the top five in the last three seasons, and believes he leaves the club in a better state.

“I think all in all it has been a good tenureship. A coach is recognised by three things – the style of play, which is recognisable and efficient, which was a definite tick and the management was happy; secondly growth of individuals, including the youth; and lastly results.

“I got excited when I first got involved. I enjoyed seeing growth from the Academy straight to the first team,” he concluded.

READ: Sundowns will dominate HWBSL because of support - Mitchell Stevens

Man City make huge offer for Rodri replacement Warren Zaire-Emery

SABC Sport — Mon, 18 Nov 2024 12:11:15 +0000

The Citizens made a great start to their Premier League title defence in the first nine games of the season but their recent form has seen them slip off the pace.

Man City were unbeaten in their first nine matches of the Premier League campaign but they have now lost two in a row to drop five points behind leaders Liverpool.

They have also lost an unprecedented four games in a row in all competitions under Pep Guardiola with their second-half performance in their defeat to Brighton particularly bad.

Guardiola's side are struggling without Rodri in the middle of the park after the Spaniard - who recently won the Ballon d'Or, picked up a serious knee injury against Arsenal on September 22 with a torn anterior cruciate ligament ruling him out for the season.

A report on Sunday claimed that Guardiola has four demands to remain as Man City boss for another year, which included holding on to Rodri amid reported interest from Real Madrid.

And now reports in Spain are claiming that Man City have already made PSG an 'offer' of 120m (£100m) to sign Zaire-Emery in the January transfer window.

The Premier League side have 'set their sights on one of the most promising talents in French football' with the dominant 18-year-old midfielder breaking into the PSG first-team over the last few seasons.

Man City are 'leading the race for his signing' with the Citizens boss seeing the France international 'as an ideal piece to strengthen their midfield' with the youngster having the 'perfect profile to adapt to Guardiola's philosophy, who is constantly looking to incorporate players who fit into his dynamic and attacking game'.

PSG will be in no rush to sell Zaire-Emery with the 18-year-old having almost five years to run on his existing contract but a transfer to Man City 'could become one of the big moves of the next transfer market'.

Former Man City defender Richard Dunne is predicting an exciting Premier League title race this season with Chelsea potentially having a say before the end of the campaign.

Dunne told Gambling Zone: "With the way the season has started, I think there's going to be maybe a couple more teams who are capable of putting themselves in the title race with the likes of Liverpool, Man City and Arsenal because the league is so competitive and every team is capable of taking points and winning games.

"Chelsea can keep themselves involved. They seem to have really got themselves together for the first time in ages, because for the last few years, they were all over the place. They've really got themselves together, they're playing really well and they've obviously got a really strong squad. I think they can put together a decent season this year.

"We know the issues that Man City and Arsenal have had in terms of not being at their best this season. I think that will happen to Liverpool at some stage in the season as well; they will have a little dip.

"I think the gap will be closer between the top teams this season. I think the season is set up for an exciting title race and hopefully there will be three or four involved in it."

Chelsea chase Bryan Mbeumo and Rayan Cherki in January transfer move

SABC Sport — Mon, 18 Nov 2024 12:11:01 +0000

The Blues have made a positive start to the season under new boss Enzo Maresca after a couple of poor campaigns in the Premier League.

Maresca's side are currently third in the Premier League table after 11 matches with Chelsea having already played Man City, Liverpool and Arsenal.

Their 19 points from 11 matches has given them a brilliant foundation to attempt to achieve a top-four finish in the Premier League after two seasons without Champions League football.

Many former players and pundits are baffled how Chelsea are still lacking a world-class centre-forward despite spending over Ã‚£1billion since a Todd Boehly-led consortium took over at Stamford Bridge in May 2022.

Nicolas Jackson has scored six goals in 11 Premier League matches this term but Maresca wants to take some of the goalscoring burden away from the Senegal international.

And now reports in Spain claim Chelsea have made an 'offer' of Ã¢‚¬60m (Ã‚£50m) for Brentford striker Bryan Mbeumo - who has been brilliant in the Premier League for a few seasons - and 'look set to take the lead in the race for his signature.'

Mbeumo's potential 'arrival would be an ideal reinforcement for the London side, who need a reliable goalscorer and a player who can contribute both in team play and in finishing'.

The Camerooon international's versatility is also a big plus for Chelsea and the Blues 'want to take advantage of the opportunity to sign Mbeumo in this upcoming transfer market'.

Another a report in Spain has claimed that Chelsea are in the race for another forward in the form of Lyon attacker Rayan Cherki with Maresca keen to beat Liverpool to his signature.

Chelsea have 'already submitted a 20m euro (£16.7m) offer' for the Lyon star to match the amount Premier League rivals Liverpool are also willing to pay.

Sead Ramovic fully backs new TS Galaxy coach Adnan Beganovic

Mazola Molefe — Mon, 18 Nov 2024 13:21:08 +0000

The Serbian shocked the football fraternity when he resigned on live television earlier this month, following a string of unsatisfactory results in the Betway Premiership, MTN8 and Carling Knockout.

READ: Sukazi confirms Sead Ramovic replacement at TS Galaxy

Ramovic has since been appointed the new head coach at Tanzanian champions Young Africans, and praised his former assistant for his loyalty and respect.

I can only say beautiful things about Adnan – he was a loyal guy until now, and you know that I didn't go to Raja [Athletic Club] because they wanted me to come alone," said Ramovic.

"So I always said that it was not a loss not to go there, it was actually a win for my values, principles and loyalty, and now people will say, "Look, you didn't go because of them, but now he stays when you've left.'

"But it's not like this because he asked me if this was okay with me, if not, he would not stay."

Beganovic, like Ramovic, also holds a UEFA Pro License and is now tasked with getting Galaxy out of the Betway Premiership relegation zone – a job the former head coach believes his successor should be able to execute.

"So my advice to him was, 'Listen, you've worked your whole life, you have the highest education, you're getting this beautiful opportunity, especially in this amazing club with this top human being as chairman that you will not find at many clubs in South Africa,'" he shared.

"'So I wish you all the best and I'm sure you will do a better job than I did because you have the energy levels and everything. I wish you can do it, and I will be the most happy guy.'

"His success will be my success, so if I have a small part of the things that he has learnt from me, I will be very happy that he can improve the club because it's not about me, it's not about him, it's about the club."

ð•Œ„™ð”»ð”¸ð•‹ð”¼!

Betway Premiership side TS Galaxy have added UEFA Pro Licensed Coach Nermin Basic as a Technical Advisor to their new head coach, Adnan Beganovic!#SABCSportFootball pic.twitter.com/GhVmq2MpRR
— SABC Sport (@SABC_Sport) November 16, 2024

Ansu Fati's injury crisis complicates future at FC Barcelona

SABC Sport — Mon, 18 Nov 2024 11:11:45 +0000

The Barcelona forward was ruled out this week after suffering a muscle injury to his right hamstring, with a recovery period expected to last around four weeks.

This setback means he is likely to miss crucial fixtures before the winter break, adding further uncertainty to his already difficult campaign.

Fati's future at Barcelona has been in doubt for some time, and this latest injury has made matters even more complicated.

Earlier this year, Fati struggled to find his form, leading to limited opportunities under then manager Xavi Hernandez. The injury blow has come at a time when his potential departure seemed more likely, especially with winter transfer rumours swirling around his name.

One club that had shown interest in signing him this winter, Fenerbahce, have now decided to rule out a move. Despite the injury, the Turkish side's coach, Jose Mourinho, had already made the decision to pass on Fati before the setback occurred.

The hamstring problem merely added to the doubts surrounding the 21-year-old's fitness and ability to contribute at the highest level.

Mourinho had considered signing Fati in the summer, but the move never materialised after the player was sidelined with a foot injury before the start of the season. Even though Fati was still on Fenerbahce's radar, his inconsistent performances since his return to action have made the deal increasingly unlikely.

Fati's inability to make a significant impact on the pitch, compounded by fierce competition from Barcelona's attacking trio of Lamine Yamal, Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha, has left his future uncertain.

His latest injury marks the third serious setback in just one year, following a foot injury that saw him sidelined for over two months while on loan at Brighton. With such a string of misfortunes, the young talent's prospects at both Barcelona and in the transfer market remain unclear.

National Champs to expose rural talent - Jenny van Dyk

Mpumi Manyisi — Mon, 18 Nov 2024 12:39:04 +0000

This year’s tournament will see clubs from different districts across the country vie for the national title at the Ellis Park Arena from 2 - 7 December.

Speaking to SABC Sport, Van Dyk is happy that this competition allows local and rural districts to showcase the unearthed talent they possess.

"The Spar National Championships is a really important tournament for us because of the fact that everybody is playing in their district teams, which gives more players opportunity to play," said van Dyk.

"So, for us, during the TNL, we play provinces – and in those provinces, there are quite a lot of districts, which means not everybody within the districts get to showcase their talent.

"But in the Spar National Championships, you have all the districts and levels, and you don't just pick up all the strong players from the strong university systems and structures, and all the dominant provinces.

"But you also get a look at the more local, rural talent, which is such an important part of our [netball] development."

Despite the Proteas’ intense preparation for the Africa Cup taking place next month, Van Dyk says the national team will make time to go and support at the National Championships.

"We will be at the Spar National Championships, training there [at Ellis Park Arena] for the week, and just being involved and showing our support for Spar and the product," she added.

"Also, the U21 [national] team will be participating in the tournament, they are preparing for the World Cup next year, so even for them having this opportunity to play against all the other teams is also quite important."

READ: Chapepa proud of SA men performance at Fast5 World Series

Vitor Roque's Barcelona exit and Endrick Felipe's Real Madrid wait

SABC Sport — Mon, 18 Nov 2024 10:11:41 +0000

They were tipped to become the next big stars of Real Madrid and Barcelona, yet their journeys have not gone as anticipated.

Roque's stint at Barcelona lasted just eight months. Despite arriving with great promise, he struggled to find his place in Xavi's system, and his lack of game time was a contributing factor to his departure on loan to Real Betis.

With only two goals and 353 minutes played in 16 appearances, Roque was unable to make a lasting impact at the Nou Camp. He needed minutes to adjust to La Liga, but his time at Barcelona was limited, leading to an early exit. His departure has raised questions about his future with the club.

Endrick, meanwhile, faces a different challenge at Real Madrid. The 18-year-old forward is still waiting for his chance under Carlo Ancelotti, with the manager yet to give him a significant role in the first team.

"Since I've known Barcelona, I don't remember such a harsh attack on an 18-year-old," said Deco, referring to the criticism Roque received.

While Endrick's situation at Madrid isn't as extreme, the pressure surrounding him is palpable. Many believe he deserves more playing time, but the lack of opportunity has sparked frustration, not only for the player but for fans as well.

Endrick is well aware of the natural process young players must go through at a club as big as Madrid.

Patience is key, and while he waits for his chance, his focus remains on working hard every day. "My time will come," he acknowledged. His attitude was evident in a recent match against Stuttgart, when he came on in the 80th minute, scored in just 10 minutes, and sealed his team's victory.

His determination to impress was clear as he took a decisive shot in the dying seconds, a moment that could be a stepping stone in his Madrid career.

As both players navigate the transition to top-flight European football, they must continue to show patience and resilience. While their futures remain uncertain, moments of brilliance like Endrick's against Stuttgart show that they have the potential to succeed when their opportunities do arrive.

Rassie Erasmus provides positive update on Ox Nche but won't risk star prop

SABC Sport — Mon, 18 Nov 2024 10:11:06 +0000

The Sharks man was worryingly taken off early into their 29-20 win at the Allianz Stadium, but boss Erasmus has revealed it is not as bad as first feared.

Speaking to the media after the game, Erasmus detailed his star prop suffered a "deep cut", rather than anything more serious.

"It's a cut above the knee, it's not the knee itself which is positive, but it's quite a deep cut." Erasmus said. "It's something very similar to what he had against New Zealand, when he had the cut just above the knee."

He also added that Nche "isn't injured", but wouldn't risk him against Wales if there was any potential for the cut to reopen.

"I'm not a medical doctor or not a doctor at all, but I think it just depends on how quickly the stitches go, but it's not in the knee, he's not injured, it's just above the knee," he said. "Hopefully we won't be without him again, but we won't risk him if that thing is going to open again, but it's not the knee, it's a cut."

The Sharks prop has long been a regular feature in Erasmus' side since he took over in 2018, but this season has become the nailed-on starter at loosehead for the Springboks.

He has featured in all but one of South Africa's 11 Tests in 2024, starting nine of them in the process.

If he were to be unavailable for their next game with Wales, it would present a decent chance for Gerhard Steenekamp to get a start. Bath ace Thomas du Toit is also a potential option to slot into the shirt, given he can also play loosehead and impressed against Scotland.

South Africa now prepare to take on Wales in their final Test of 2024 and will be looking for a repeat of their heavy 41-13 win in June.

Springbok quartet nominated for 2024 World Rugby Awards

Chad Klate — Mon, 18 Nov 2024 11:19:05 +0000

The trio of Cheslin Kolbe, Eben Etzebeth, and Pieter-Steph du Toit dominate the Men's 15s Player of the Years nominees, alongside Ireland's number eight Caelan Doris.

Kolbe, Etzebeth, and du Toit – who won the award in 2019 – were all instrumental in the Boks' successful defence of their Rugby World Cup crown in France last year, and have continued their stellar form through 2024 as the team emphatically clinched the Rugby Championship title.

Etzebeth, who is now the most-capped Springbok ever, was also nominated in the same category last year, but missed out to All Blacks forward Ardie Savea.

Meanwhile, newcomer Sacha Feinburg-Mngomezulu burst onto the scene and quickly attained rising star status during the Rugby Championship, with the 22-year-old showing his prowess in the Boks fly-half position, earning him a nomination in the Men's 15s Breakthrough Player of the Year category.

SFM is up against 22-year-old New Zealand eighthman Wallace Sititi, 21-year-old England wing Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, and Ireland's 23-year-old Jamie Osborne, who made his debut in South Africa earlier this year.

READ: Snyman eager to make it three out of three against Wales

2024 World Rugby Awards nominees

World Rugby Men’s 15s Player of the Year

Caelan Doris (IRE)
Eben Etzebeth (RSA)
Pieter-Steph du Toit (RSA)
Cheslin Kolbe (RSA)

World Rugby Men’s 15s Breakthrough Player of the Year

Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu (RSA)
Immanuel Feyi-Waboso (ENG)
Jamie Osborne (IRE)
Wallace Sititi (NZL)

International Rugby Players Men’s 15s Try of the Year

James Lowe (Ireland v England, Men’s Six Nations, 10 March)
Lorenzo Pani (Italy v Wales, Men’s Six Nations, 17 March)
Nolann Le Garrec (France v England, Men’s Six Nations, 17 March)
Akaki Tabutsadze (Georgia v Australia, July Internationals, 20 July)

World Rugby Women’s 15s Player of the Year

Pauline Bourdon Sansus (FRA)
Ellie Kildunne (ENG)
Alex Matthews (ENG)
Alex Tessier (CAN)

World Rugby Women’s 15s Breakthrough Player of the Year

Caitlyn Halse (AUS)
Maddie Feaunati (ENG)
Erin King (IRE)
Hannah King (NZL)

International Rugby Players Women’s 15s Try of the Year

Alyssa D’Incà (Italy v Scotland, Women’s Six Nations, 20 April)
Georgia Ponsonby (New Zealand v Australia, Pacific Four Series, 25 May)
Maya Stewart (Australia v Wales, WXV, 28 September)
Marine Ménager (France v Canada, WXV, 29 September)

World Rugby Men’s Sevens Player of the Year in partnership with HSBC

Antoine Dupont (FRA)
Aaron Grandidier Nkanang (FRA)
Terry Kennedy (IRE)

World Rugby Women’s Sevens Player of the Year in partnership with HSBC

Michaela Blyde (NZL)
Maddison Levi (AUS)
Jorja Miller (NZL)

Other categories with winners announced on 24 November

International Rugby Players Special Merit Award
World Rugby Coach of the Year
World Rugby Women’s 15s Dream Team of the Year
World Rugby Men’s 15s Dream Team of the Year
World Rugby Women’s Sevens Dream Team of the Year in partnership with HSBC
World Rugby Men’s Sevens Dream Team of the Year in partnership with HSBC

France boss eyes 2027 RWC following third consecutive win over All Blacks

SABC Sport — Mon, 18 Nov 2024 09:11:34 +0000

Delighted with the success, especially after France's lack of game time compared to the All Blacks, he said the win was good for France.

They overcame the early loss of a prop that caused scrum issues and the Cam Roigard interception that resulted in the All Blacks' second try.

"We were solid in the most vulnerable moments," said Galthie.

"At half-time, we sorted the problems, and [scrumhalf] Antoine Dupont controlled the way we played.

"We were facing a team that had been honed, oiled and together for six months and was playing its 13th game. We, with three weeks of preparation and only one match against Japan [won 52-12], did not start on equal terms. Our plan was quite pragmatic. We were under pressure in the first half, but the players did not let up.

"This is very positive for only three weeks of joint work. This is a prestigious victory. We worked hard to get to this point. It shows we made the right decisions and the work done with players is right.

"It is 100 percent joy, pleasure and happiness."

Galthie said beating the All Blacks in three consecutive Tests was satisfying, and France would end the year as the best of the northern hemisphere sides.

"It is a year of post-World Cup transition that is both very rich and very difficult to go through," he concluded.

Malik Tillman eyes dream Bayern Munich return

SABC Sport — Mon, 18 Nov 2024 09:11:30 +0000

Tillman, 22, initially joined PSV on loan before completing a 12 million euro transfer. Bayern have a 35 million euro buyback clause in his contract for the summer of 2026, and the attacking midfielder hasn't ruled out a future return to the Bundesliga giants.

Tillman said, "Obviously I can't comment on the figures, they're not that important to me! But I don't want to make a secret of it: A return to Bayern is still a dream and a big goal for me."

Tillman caused some confusion last month when he suggested that he had no say in his permanent move to PSV.

He clarified his comments, stressing that his intention was never to express discontent with the transfer. "A lot of people took the statement that way. But that's not what I meant at all. I was just trying to explain how the transfer came about.

"And that was just between the clubs - without me being asked about my feelings or wishes. That was the only thing that surprised me," he explained.

However, Tillman insisted he holds no ill will towards Bayern. "I am very grateful to Bayern. I spent eight years there and learned so much. They gave me the opportunity to take my first steps in professional football-experiences I'll never forget," he added.

Since joining PSV, Tillman has been a key figure, scoring 15 goals and providing 19 assists in 56 appearances. Despite his fondness for Bayern, he is content with his current situation at Eindhoven, where he feels supported and motivated to continue developing.

Kimmich Injury Not Serious After Germany's 7-0 Victory

Joshua Kimmich was substituted during Germany's 7-0 demolition of Bosnia-Herzegovina in the UEFA Nations League on Saturday, but the Bayern Munich star has assured fans that the injury was not serious.

Kimmich sustained a knock in the second half, but both he and coach Julian Nagelsmann have downplayed any major concerns.

"It was a precautionary measure. If the score hadn't been 6-0, I wouldn't have gone off. I want to play again in Hungary," Kimmich explained after the match.

Nagelsmann echoed his player's sentiments, confirming that the injury was not a serious one. "With Josh, we don't think it's that bad. The doctor said he was lucky," Nagelsmann said.

Germany's commanding win saw Jamal Musiala score the opening goal just two minutes into the match. Musiala, who was delighted with his header, said, "That was fun. We did what we wanted to do, playing freely while still working hard defensively."

The Bayern Munich youngster added, "I'm proud of the header, I'm happy with the goal," as Germany moved closer to securing their spot in the Nations League finals.

Liverpool target Omar Marmoush to replace Mohamed Salah

SABC Sport — Mon, 18 Nov 2024 08:11:06 +0000

Salah has forged himself into a Liverpool icon during his near seven-and-a-half-year stint on Merseyside, scoring a whopping 221 goals and adding 99 assists in his 366 appearances for the Reds so far.

Currently operating at a goal contribution every 1.14 appearances, the 32-year-old has returned to his very best form this season with 10 goals and 10 assists from 17 games already.

However, that relationship is tipped to end next summer when Salah falls out of contract at Anfield. And with a free transfer beckoning, a concerning report on Saturday claimed his future has already been decided with his next move now mapped out.

Understandably, Liverpool are scouring the market for potential replacements. In recent weeks, that hunt has appeared to shorten to just two very different players in Brentford's Bryan Mbeumo and Eintracht Frankfurt hotshot Marmoush.

German publication Bild claims transfer talks over a deal to take Marmoush to Anfield have now begun with the Reds ascertaining the costs around the potential deal.

Now Salah has given his verdict on Marmoush but insists comparison between himself and his countrymen do the Frankfurt star no favours.

"Omar Marmoush, incredibly talented and currently a key player for his club and the national team," Salah told Egyptian outlet WinWin. "But I hope he can stay away from comparisons because they will keep putting him under constant pressure.

"I just want him to avoid the idea of comparisons. People need to stop comparing him to me, saying he's 'the new Salah' and that he'll do what I did or even better, this doesn't help him; it only puts him under constant pressure.

"You can't compare him to a player who has achieved so much over the years while he's just starting out. Let him live his own experience and enjoy it. He's doing something different, in his own unique way."

Per Bild, any deal for Marmoush will not come cheap with the Bundesliga side currently valuing the star in the 60m euro (£50m, $63.7m) bracket.

That figure will likely continue to rise if Marmoush builds on his impressive start to the season that has seen the 25-year-old notch 14 goals and 10 assists from 16 matches so far.

Understandably, Frankfurt want to keep hold of their prized asset and it's believed they want to retain his services until the end of the current season at least.

Frankfurt are currently third in the Bundesliga, winning six of their 10 games so far - a record that currently places them higher than reigning champions Bayer Leverkusen.

Amogelang Motau: UWC return home with heads held high

Matlhomola Morake — Mon, 18 Nov 2024 10:03:41 +0000

The students managed to register one win, but suffered two defeats as they finished third in Group A, missing out on the semi-finals by three points.

Motau says the continental showpiece was a good exercise that will help the University outfit as they target the Hollywoodbets Super League title next season.

"First of all, being here was already an achievement for the team, something we've been working towards over the past three years," said Motau.

"So this tournament was an end of a cycle for us, that we needed to close and come to the highest level we could play as a team.

"We knew it was not going to be easy, and having gone through what we went through as a team, where we lost such key players due to injuries and others going to greener pastures, we knew it was going to be a challenge.

"But every team is made up of 23-26 players, and we came into the tournament and played for each other, that's why we can walk away with our heads held high and saying we did our best.

"We'll forever have this experience, and hopefully it will help us next year going into the new Hollywoodbets Super League season as well."

The Banyana Banyana midfielder also relished the experience of competing against the continent’s best clubs.

"Playing in this tournament is really important, not just for the team but also the individuals that have not been on such stages before," she added.

"I think, one thing about experience is that you can't buy it, you need to earn it, and being part of this tournament earned that experience for the team, and the individuals to show what we're made of in South Africa and the type of skills and players we have.

"Obviously things didn't end the way we wanted it to, but, again, we'll take the lessons with us."

READ: Thinasonke Mbuli proud of UWC players despite early exit

Nations League: Adrien Rabiot shines for France, England dominate Ireland

SABC Sport — Mon, 18 Nov 2024 07:11:29 +0000

France Clinch Group A2 with Rabiot Double

France emerged victorious in a pivotal clash against Italy, winning 3-1 in Milan to secure first place in Group A2 of the UEFA Nations League.

Adrien Rabiot was the star of the night, scoring twice with headers to guide Didier Deschamps' side to a crucial victory.

Rabiot opened the scoring early, capitalising on a pinpoint delivery to head past Italy's goalkeeper, Guglielmo Vicario. Lucas Digne doubled France's lead with a stunning free-kick that took a deflection off Vicario. However, Italy struck back before half-time through Andrea Cambiaso, whose composed finish temporarily restored the Azzurri to the top of the group standings.

The decisive moment came in the 65th minute when Rabiot rose to meet another Digne cross, securing the top spot for France. Both France and Italy had already qualified for the quarter-finals before this match, but the win ensured France finished as group leaders.

Haaland Hat-Trick Powers Norway's Promotion

In Oslo, Erling Haaland delivered another masterclass, netting a hat-trick in Norway's emphatic 5-0 win over Kazakhstan.

The prolific striker, now leading the Nations League's scoring charts, opened the scoring by tapping in a rebound from Antonio Nusa's shot. Haaland doubled his tally with a header before Alexander Sorloth added a third.

Haaland completed his hat-trick in the second half with a stunning strike from outside the box. Nusa capped the rout with a sublime curled effort, securing Norway's promotion to League A.

England Thrash Ireland to Seal League A Return

England celebrated a triumphant 5-0 victory over the Republic of Ireland in Lee Carsley's final game as interim manager.

After a tightly contested first half, the floodgates opened in the second as five different players found the net.

Harry Kane converted a penalty shortly after Liam Scales was sent off for a second yellow card. Anthony Gordon and Conor Gallagher added quick goals before Jarrod Bowen scored with his first touch.

Taylor Harwood-Bellis completed the rout, heading in a superb Jude Bellingham cross.

Other Highlights

Austria 1-1 Slovenia: Austria face League A/B play-offs after finishing second in Group B3.

Israel 1-0 Belgium: Yarden Shua's late goal gave Israel a win, but they were relegated to League B.

Greece 2-0 Finland: Greece finished second in Group B2 despite a solid away victory.

Sunday's Full Results

Group A2: Israel 1-0 Belgium, Italy 1-3 France

Group B2: England 5-0 Republic of Ireland, Finland 0-2 Greece

Group B3: Austria 1-1 Slovenia, Norway 5-0 Kazakhstan

Group C4: Latvia 1-2 Armenia, North Macedonia 1-0 Faroe Islands

Ruben Amorim 'loves' Man Utd stars Leny Yoro and Kobbie Mainoo

SABC Sport — Mon, 18 Nov 2024 07:11:07 +0000

Amorim worked wonders at Sporting CP, guiding the club to two Primeira Liga titles while vastly improving the players under his command.

Man Utd will hope the 39-year-old can have a similarly transformative effect at Old Trafford and per Fabrizio Romano, two players he'll build around are teenage pair Leny Yoro and Kobbie Mainoo.

"Kobbie Mainoo is a crucial player for Manchester United owners, directors, and for Manchester United staff, "said Romano on his YouTube channel.

"Ruben Amorim loves these kind of players. Kobbie Mainoo, Leny YoroÃ¢¦ these sort of players are exactly the direction he wants to take for Man Utd's future.

"So the new contract of Mainoo is going to be an important topic in the next few weeks and months. Man Utd are still working on it.

"We are not yet at the final stages but the conversation remains ongoing and the conversation remains positive on both player and club sides."

Romano concluded by stating Mainoo's new contract will become a hot topic at Old Trafford "after the international break."

Mainoo's existing contract runs until 2027 and his upcoming new deal will come with a handy pay rise attached.

Yoro, meanwhile, could be the biggest beneficiary of Amorim's 3-4-3 formation.

The United boss is expected to immediately adopt his customary back three and Yoro appears in line to feature on the right side of that trio. Matthijs De Ligt would play in the middle, with Lisandro Martinez on the left.

Taking to X earlier this week, Romano revealed Amorim believes Yoro is a 'generational talent.'

"Ruben Amorim and his staff consider Leny Yoro one of the most interesting players to develop for Man United's long term project," wrote Romano.

"He's considered a generational talent by the club and Amorim with his staff fully agree on that. Yoro's full recovery is also at final stages."

The recovery referenced relates to Yoro closing in on a return to full fitness after fracturing his metatarsal in pre-season. The injury and subsequent recovery has prevented Yoro from making his competitive debut for the club, though that moment could now arrive after the international break.

Jannik Sinner defeats Taylor Fritz to claim ATP Finals title in fine style

SABC Sport — Mon, 18 Nov 2024 06:11:59 +0000

The Italian has got better and better as the season has gone on, despite the doping case hanging over his head that could still lead to a suspension.

Sinner's 6-4, 6-4 victory over fifth seed Taylor Fritz made it 26 wins from his last 27 matches, a run that included his second grand slam title of the year at the US Open, two Masters 1000 trophies and now the ATP Finals.

Sinner has been utterly dominant in Turin, winning all his five matches without dropping a set, and he becomes the first Italian champion.

He had already beaten Fritz in the group stage and, despite another competitive encounter, it was the Italian who again came out on top in the decisive moments.

He took a fourth chance to break serve at 3-3 before clinching the opening set, and another break in the fifth game of the second was enough to complete the job.

Fritz was the first American to reach the singles final since James Blake in 2006 and was aiming to become the first US champion this century but, as in the US Open final, he found Sinner an immovable obstacle.

The 23-year-old celebrated in front of the jubilant home crowd, and the year could yet have one more high, with Sinner set to head to Malaga, where he will attempt to help Italy successfully defend the Davis Cup title.

"Honestly, I have surprised myself the whole year at times but in my mind I know how much work I put in and how many sacrifices I have made to be in this position," said Sinner.

"I just try to play in the present moment and it was a very special moment for me to win here - very important from my side. I know the season I've had.

"I got here one week early trying to understand the speed of the court, trying to work out what works best for me here, so it's a very special feeling, special moment.

"I played some very, very good tennis throughout this whole week and at times I couldn't have played better.

"I'm very happy how I handled every situation on and off the court. Sharing this feel is amazing.

"It's amazing. It's been an amazing week - my first title in Italy and it's something very, very special.

"I tried to play the best possible tennis I can. That was the key.

"It was a very high-level tournament from my side and at times I couldn't play better so I'm very happy."

Sinner's magical 2024 could still have a final flourish if he wins the Davis Cup once again with Italy next week, but there can be no doubt that he deserves to be hailed as the shining light of the season in the men's game after this convincing victory.

The biggest battle he will face in the opening half of 2025 will be proving his innocence after the World Anti-DOping Agency appealed against a decision to clear him of wrongdoing after he failed two drug tests in March.

If he can navigate that huge problem, Sinner is well-placed to build on his growing aura heading into the next tennis year.

Africa Cup of Nations qualifying wrap: Group H going down to the wire

SABC Sport — Sun, 17 Nov 2024 16:11:54 +0000

Ethiopia 0-2 Tanzania

Tanzania kept their Africa Cup of Nations hopes alive with a 2-0 victory over Ethiopia on Saturday.

Simon Msuva (15') and Feisal Salum (31') were both on target at Stade des Martyrs.

The result lifted third-placed Tanzania onto seven points with one game to play. They are just two points adrift of second placed Guinea, who they play on Tuesday.

Ethiopia sit bottom of Group H with one point.

Guinea 1-0 DR Congo

Guinea will need just a draw when they face Tanzania in their final group game, after seeing off Group H leaders and already-qualified Democratic Republic of the Congo 1-0.

Serhou Guirassy scored a 92nd minute winner at the Alassane Ouattara Ebimpé Olympic Stadium to leave his side three points adrift of DRC and two clear of their next opponents.

READ: Ghana miss out, Zimbabwe, Zambia secure AFCON spots

Catch all the final round AFCON 2025 Qualifiers LIVE on SABC Sport on DTT Channel 4, SABC + App, and sabcsport.com.

PSL aims to meet with SAFA for clarity on the selection of referees

Nozibusiso Sibiya — Sun, 17 Nov 2024 14:02:34 +0000

There have been a lot of complaints in the Betway Premiership regarding the level of officiating which includes an incident where Kaizer Chiefs striker Edson Castillo suffered an injury that will see him out until next year from a tackle by SuperSport United's Bilal Baloyi in Amakhosi 1-0 loss to SuperSport at the Peter Mokaba Stadium last month.

READ: RG Snyman eager to make it three out of three against Wales

On Laduma’s SoccerZone former referee and SABC Sport analyst Victor Hlungwani insisted Amakhosi should have been awarded a penalty.

Speaking to Victor Molefe on the Prime Time Sports Show on Ukhozi FM Madlala says the meeting was postponed due to SAFA's other commitments.

"SAFA wrote a letter to me because what we were requesting from them is to explain to us how they select referees for games. They need to make us all understand because they are the only ones who know of the selection process,” Madlala said.

“We also want to know if these officials are chosen according to their experience, if maybe there's level A or B? We don't have that kind of information but you find that we fight amongst each other.

“You find that sometimes referees make mistakes but we end up fighting amongst each other. They said they were going to send us information but when they were supposed to do it, they told us that CAF had called them, and they have work that they have to do for CAF. “So, they ended up not coming. We are hoping that they will make time to meet with us because everyone wants to know how they choose referees for games."

Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie also recently confirmed to SABC Sport that as government they are ready to put down a deposit through sponsors, to pay towards the implementation of VAR.

The CEO adds that she's in a committee with some members from SAFA to make sure that VAR is introduced in South African football.

"In the other meeting that we had with SAFA, we did talk about VAR. I'm on the committee that will work on bringing VAR to the country. There are different types of VAR, there is lite, there are several types but now the big question is where are we going to get money to implement it?” she asked.

“We are still trying to find ways to secure money for the implementation of VAR so as the committee we are still talking to different VAR suppliers so that when we go back to SAFA GLC we know exactly where we will get the money from. We are definitely working on the VAR issue and the referee department from SAFA is also on the committee."

Lawyer’s advice to clubs on disputes – ‘Respect contracts’

Mazola Molefe — Sun, 17 Nov 2024 12:55:02 +0000

And recently, Davor Lazic was part of a seminar in Europe hoping to address issues around disputes in football.

READ: Sports Physician Dr Singe Chonco insists injuries affect players mentally

The theme was clear, that every stakeholder, especially clubs, should “respect contracts” as they are legally binding.

''You know, generally not only the clubs, I give the same advice to stakeholders - a club, player or coach or an association - you just need to respect your contracts. For example if you have a player who did not appear at training or at a football match - the clubs can terminate the contract without even playing the player. But in terms of proceedings - there are only five countries in Africa out of the 54 different associations that have established Dispute Resolution channels and one of those is South Africa,'' said Lazic.

Nurkovic was able to approach FIFA directly for his claim of R15-million not only because of his status as a foreigner, but because the PSL Dispute Resolution Chamber did not meet the international standards.

''Basically if it is not established according to right standards and you can go to FIFA to say there's no Dispute Resolution Chamber and in most cases it is because there is no independence. Seeing that there is a really critical need for establishing the impartial and effective National Dispute Resolution Chambers and that would provide more justice in relation to these issues,'' added Lazic.

In addressing the Royal AM matter recently, PSL chairman Irvin Khoza had indicated the league was in a process of refining its dispute channels.

Lazic says this is the best way forward.

''Basically, I think that is the right option to change some things, maybe even cheaper to have everything moved to the direction of Dispute Resolution Chambers,'' he expressed.

The attorney also insisted the case against Royal AM was simply to force the club to pay out a contract that was unlawfully terminated – it was nothing personal.

Iga Swiatek and Poland make history at Billie Jean King Cup

SABC Sport — Sun, 17 Nov 2024 12:11:36 +0000

Following their 2-0 victory over hosts Spain on Friday, Poland came from behind to defeat the Czech Republic 2-1 in the quarter-final with Swiatek on double duty.

After Marie Bouzkova beat Magdalena Frech, Swiatek got her team back on level terms with a three-set win over youngster Linda Noskova in two hours and 39 minutes.

The tie was decided in the doubles as the world No 2 returned to the court 30 minutes after her singles encounter to team up with Katarzyna Kawa.

And they had to dig deep as they came out on top against doubles world No. 1 Katerina Siniakova and Bouzkova, winning 6-1, 6-4 to send the team into the last four of the Billie Jean King Cup.

By the time the chair umpire called "game, set, match Poland", it was already 1am in Malaga, Spain.

"In 20 minutes I'll be dead, but now, let's enjoy this," Swiatek said. "It was an exhausting day, really tough matches. But I'm really happy that we won the last one, that's the most important thing."

Having missed several of Poland's Billie Jean King Cup matches in recent years, the five-time Grand Slam winner returned to the fold this year and has now realised a "dream".

"It's amazing that we have made history for Poland - a dream come true," she said. "I missed playing this event a couple of times, but now I have the chance to play I want to make an impact and do something well.

"I am so happy that I finally got the opportunity and this tournament is amazing. The atmosphere is great and the whole experience is wonderful. I'm so happy also that we have such amazing players in the team.

"I am super proud of Katarzyna, myself and the whole team for fighting today because in doubles we weren't the favourites.

"I'm super happy that Katarzyna was leading the doubles, picking the right tactics and telling me what to do as I haven't played doubles in a while. I think we made a really good team."

Poland will face Italy in the semi-final on Monday while the winner will take on one of Canada/Great Britain/Australia/Slovakia in the final.

RG Snyman eager to make it three out of three against Wales

SABC Sport — Sun, 17 Nov 2024 12:11:32 +0000

The Boks beat England by 29-20 in London on Saturday, after last Sunday's 32-15 win over Scotland in Edinburgh. Next up are the Welsh, who will face Australia on Sunday afternoon, where they will be determined to make up for their 24-19 defeat against Fiji last weekend.

Despite the defeat against Fiji, Snyman said the Welsh are always a force to be reckoned with at home.

"Trying to make it three out of three (on tour) definitely puts some pressure on us, but pressure brings the best out of this team," said Snyman after the victory in London.

"We have a week to prepare for the game against Wales, and we know we can give it our all because it's our last match of the international season, so we are very excited about the challenge.

"It definitely won't be easy because the Welsh are always a tough team to play against and especially at home, so we have to prepare well and get stuck in next week."

Looking back at their victory against England, Snyman said it was a tough game.

"I thought the momentum shifted a few times throughout the game, but we were happy to get the win," he said.

"It's always tough playing at the Allianz Stadium, so it was a good result for us. I also thought the guys adjusted well during the game and remained calm, and it's good to have that around you."

Bok prop Wilco Louw became the 50th Springbok player to take the field this season in the clash against England in a team that showed 12 changes to the starting line-up, and Snyman attributed their success with all the player rotation to the fantastic systems put in place by Springbok head coach Rassie Erasmus and his coaching team.

"The mindset of among the players at the moment is that you have to understand your job, step into the role, and do the job whenever you are granted the opportunity," said Snyman. "And personally, it's great to be back with the Boks."

The team travelled from London to Cardiff via bus on Sunday and will begin their on-field preparations for Saturday's clash on Monday.

Sports Physician Dr Singe Chonco insists injuries affect players mentally

Nozibusiso Sibiya — Sun, 17 Nov 2024 10:41:57 +0000

The Premier Soccer League has had incidents where players’ careers ended prematurely because of injuries.

READ: Brandon Truter survives Richards Bay axe – for now

The likes of former Orlando Pirates goalkeeper Brilliant Khuzwayo, which was due to a recurring ankle problem, former Kaizer Chiefs youngster, Wiseman Meyiwa, who was forced to retirement at the age of 19 due to injuries sustained in a car accident and former Orlando Pirates goalkeeper Brighton Mhlongo hanged his boots after an incident in training that left him partially blind.

Speaking to SABC Sport Chonco says that the uncertainty of a long-term injury may lead to a player’s mental health declining.

''So, there's three main psychological difficulties they get to experience, one they experience depression - that is mainly because they don't know how their lives would turn out going forward, would they still be able to perform, if not what will happen? Secondly there is loss of identity, because for most of them - sport is the core part of their identity, so when there's an injury it leads to a loss of purpose and identity. And see this when they start drinking,'' said Chonco.

Football is a very short career and players need to invest for life after retirement, which is what could cause anxiety if a player is injured.

The doctor adds that players tend to be anxious about going back to the field during recovery fearing that they may pick up another injury.

''The third thing they start to experience is anxiety and fear, there's a lot of that because they are not sure as to when they go back they might get another injury,'' added Chonco.

She adds that it’s important for players to have sports psychologists to help them recover mentally from injuries.

''Very vital to have a sports psychologist as a player. If you are not doing mentally, that turns to affect your performance. But a psychologist would create a safe space for you, where you can speak about the things that affect you, to help you perform better,'' she expressed.

In October last year, Bafana Bafana striker Lyle Foster took a break from football due to mental health issues. Dr Chonco who works with the national men’s U15 and U20 teams says it’s important for the public to remember that players are human too and may struggle with their mental health.

Brandon Truter survives Richards Bay axe – for now

Mazola Molefe — Sun, 17 Nov 2024 10:35:27 +0000

Even with chairman Jomo Biyela telling the press last week that he would not be firing the coach, there were still murmurs the boss would do the complete opposite a few days later by letting Truter go.

READ: Samir Nurkovic expects to make an impact at SuperSport under "best coach" Gavin Hunt

It’s expected then that the former Moroka Swallows, AmaZulu and Sekhukhune United mentor will be in the dugout when Richards Bay travel to Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane to face Kaizer Chiefs in the Betway Premiership after the recent FIFA break this month.

The Natal Rich Boys have not had the best of starts to the season, finding themselves in 12^th position on the back of just one win from seven matches – leaving them with a mere five points.

What fueled speculation further was Biyela’s reaction last weekend when Truter failed to beat rookies Magesi FC to book them a ticket in the Carling Knockout final to play Mamelodi Sundowns on 23 November.

The chairman made his way from the VIP suites to the bench and was captured on camera visibly irritated with the result.

However, when confronted about the incident, Biyela played it down.

“Football is an emotional sport, you react in whatever way you react at that point or particular moment – there’s no bad blood between myself and the coach – he is still part of the team,” the chairman explained.

“I’ve seen what you guys are saying about him being fired. I can tell you he is part of the team. Obviously, we will try to find ways of improving in areas where we feel we are not doing well. But we are not in the business of chopping and changing. It’s better to work with someone you know and help him where needed. A new coach will come here and ask for time and new players.”

Truter has been tasked with aiming for a top four finish, a mandate his predecessor Vusumuzi Vilakazi found too ambitious.

“I never let him go, he resigned. He has his own life at AmaZulu…right now Brandon Truter is the coach of Richards Bay and I will support him up to a point where I feel that he can’t do anything to improve,” added Biyela.

Jannik Sinner secures world number one milestone with latest win

SABC Sport — Sun, 17 Nov 2024 10:11:38 +0000

Sinner became the first Italian to reach No. 1 in the rankings in June this year when he replaced tennis great Novak Djokovic with his surge to the top coming on the back of his maiden Grand Slam, which he won at the Australian Open, as well as titles at the Rotterdam Open and Miami Open.

The Italian has been pretty dominant since then as he won a second major title at the US Open and also lifted trophies in Halle, Cincinnati and Shanghai.

The 23-year-old started the season-ending ATP Finals with a 3,015-point lead over Alexander Zverev in the rankings (10,330 v 7,315), but his run to the final means he will remain at No. 1 until the end of January next year, even if he fails to successfully defend his Australian Open crown.

Sinner has already picked up 1,000 points in Turin for making it to the final so will move to 11,330 while Zverev's defeat in the semi-finals means he will be on 7,915 points.

The two-time major champion will thus start the 2025 season with a lead of at least 3,415 points (it will be 3,915 if he wins the ATP Finals).

That will give him a big enough buffer for the Australian Open as he only has the 2,000 points from last year's title run to defend in January with his next title defence in Rotterdam (500 points).

Zverev is defending 1,236 points (335 from the United Cup, 800 from the Australian Open and 100 from Los Cabos) while third-placed Carlos Alcaraz - who will kick off the new season with 7,010 points - and although the Spaniard is defending only 500 points (400 in Australia and 100 in Buenos Aries), the gap is too big to overcome.

Sinner looks set to remain at No. 1 until at least the end of February - another 15 weeks - so is set to move ahead of Alcaraz for most weeks at No. 1 in the rankings.

Alcaraz is currently 16 on the all-time list with 36 weeks while another 15 weeks at No 1 will see Sinner move to 38 weeks and Ilie Nastase will be his next target as the Romanian is on 40 weeks while Andy Murray (41) and Gustavo Kuerten (43) will also be within striking distance.

Mo Salah confident Liverpool can win Premier League

SABC Sport — Sun, 17 Nov 2024 10:11:35 +0000

Signed in a bargain Ã‚£36.9m deal from Roma in summer 2017, Salah has blasted his way to an incredible 221 goals and 99 assists in his 366 appearances for the Reds so far. With a goal contribution every 1.14 appearances - including 20 in 17 games already this season - Salah's place in Liverpool folklore is assured regardless of what happens over the next few months.

But with his contract at Anfield due to expire at the end of the current campaign, Salah will be free to negotiate a pre-contract agreement with an overseas club of his choosing from January 1, which, at the time of writing, is now just 45 days away.

Indeed, a fresh report on Saturday has warned Liverpool supporters to brace themselves for imminent news of Salah's departure, with the player now in his last season at Anfield and with his next destination seemingly coming to light.

Neither club nor player are yet to comment on the latest speculation, though the 32-year-old star has released an interview with Liverpool's YouTube channel in which he states his lofty targets for the season amid heightening claims he wants to end with a bang.

"[I want to] Win it all," Salah declared when asked about Liverpool's ambitions for the season and with the club still alive in all four competitions.

"In my opinion, I work so hard every day, I hate the idea that we are underdogs. No, we have an incredible group, one of the best in the world.

"In each position, you're going to find players that are one of the top three in the world. So, why don't we win it? This city and this club have to always fight for everything."

Salah has also been asked to pick out his football inspirations and he surprisingly named Man Utd icon Cristiano Ronaldo as one of four men he looks up to. Roma's Francesco Totti, France legend Zinedine Zidane and Brazil icon Ronaldo complete his all-star list.

Explaining why he opted for Ronaldo - a choice many might feel is controversial given his connections to Liverpool's arch-rivals - Salah says he is inspired by his longevity, with the Portuguese superstar still going strong as he approaches his 40th birthday.

"I love the way Ronaldo [of Brazil] was playing and [Zinedine] Zidane and [Francesco] Totti. These guys, I always looked at them and they just enjoy the game."

On Ronaldo's commitment to football - something many have said too about Salah - he added: "Cristiano was also the one when I started playing in Europe more, you see the way he dedicated everything to football is insane, the way he looks after himself. You can see everything, his numbers.

"But these guys I looked at when I was young and I just wished to play one game with them or to be like them one day. I had a good opportunity to play with Totti and I played with him for two years in Rome.

"It was an incredible time, I just loved it. He was incredible to be fair and his technique was insane. Very, very good person as well."

Salah's appreciation of Totti has also been reciprocated by the Roma legend, with the latter calling time on his career in the same summer that the Egyptian departed for Anfield. Discussing his former teammate, Totti said of the Egyptian that he's "a player that changes any game at any time".

Regarding his future, Salah is determined to keep any negotiations behind closed doors but did drop a cryptic hint on his future earlier this month.

"Top of the table is where this club belongs. Nothing less. All teams win matches but there is only 1 champion in the end. That's what we want," Salah said

Rassie Erasmus admits room for improvement despite win over England

SABC Sport — Sun, 17 Nov 2024 08:23:47 +0000

The Boks won the second Test on the Castle Lager Outgoing Tour by 29-20 to make it two out of two on the tour with a match remaining, while the result also means South Africa will retain the No. 1 spot on the world rankings.

READ: Proteas coach Rob Walter: 'Ultimately the performance of the team rests with me'

"It was tough," said Erasmus.

"We also had to work hard last week for the victory (against Scotland). We missed a kick here and there and both teams were disallowed tries in the second half, while the injury to Ox (Nche) disrupted the way we planned to do things.

"We were certainly not happy with the performance, but if you beat England by nine points, it could come across as arrogant to say that. So, we are content with the result."

The Springboks scored four tries to two by England and kicked three conversions and a penalty goal to two penalty goals and two conversions by the hosts, who they last met in the Rugby World Cup semi-final.

The Boks are still on course to win all their matches on the traditional year-end tour, a feat they last achieved in 2013, with the trip concluding against Wales in Cardiff next Saturday.

The Boks held a narrow 19-17 lead going into halftime and managed to claw their way back from 20-19 down in the 51st minute to secure the nine-point victory despite playing with 14 men late in the match after replacement prop Gerhard Steenekamp received a yellow card.

However, the South Africans showed grit on defence and managed to deny the hosts a single point during that stage of the match to hold on for the victory.

Springbok captain Siya Kolisi lauded his charges for their fighting spirit: "We are a team that believes in fighting until the end and chasing lost causes, and that's pulled us together as a group.

"We had to dig deep, but the players never gave up and kept on believing and that's special about this group, and it allowed us to go all the way."

With Erasmus making 12 changes to the starting team that faced Scotland, he admitted that while they felt pressure at certain points in the match, the team selected added some sense of comfort.

"We named an experienced team and one that has played important matches," said the former Springbok loose forward.

"Many of them played in the closing match of the Castle Lager Rugby Championship against Argentina, but to hang in there with the yellow card, shows the planning by the coaches.

"In fact, if Vincent (Koch) was not named as a loosehead prop on our team sheet, we could have gone to uncontested scrums and had to play with 13 players on the field, so I'm pleased with the calm heads the players showed and how they remained calm and collected."

Looking ahead at their final Test against Wales, Erasmus said: "Next week will be our last match and then we'll see each other in June or July next year again, so we certainly want to end the tour on a high note.

"As coaches, we first need to select the team and work really hard to analyse Wales properly and put our structures in place for the game, so that will be our focus next week."

Erasmus said they would assess Nche's injury in the next day or two after he suffered a cut above the knee which required stitches, and said they would determine his availability next week depending on his recovery.

The Springboks will travel from London to Cardiff on Sunday and will begin their on-field preparations for the match on Monday.

Samir Nurkovic expects to make an impact at SuperSport under "best coach" Gavin Hunt

SABC Sport — Sun, 17 Nov 2024 08:11:31 +0000

The 32-year-old joined Matsatsantsa from TS Galaxy this week on a one-and-a-half-year deal.

Nurkovic was brought in to supplement a SuperSport side that has struggled with recent injuries, most notably to striker Bradley Grobler.

Nurkovic knows Hunt from their time at Kaizer Chiefs together, where the player scored 21 goals and created 10 in 78 games.

He said on FARPost: "I feel excited and optimistic about working under coach Gavin Hunt again.

"The feeling is amazing, and I'm super excited to work, in my opinion, under one of the best coaches in South Africa.

"Coach Gavin Hunt is known for his strong leadership and ability to bring out the best in his players. This gives me a great opportunity to grow as a player and contribute significantly to the team's overall success."

On the impact he hopes to make at SuperSport, Nurkovic added: "The thing I'm most looking forward to at this amazing club is to make an impact on the field, connect with my new teammates and embrace the passion of the fans.

"I'm really honoured and excited to join this fantastic club. I have seen the incredible passion and support the fans bring to every match, and I cannot wait to experience this firsthand.

"I promise to give my all on the field, work tirelessly to contribute to the team's success, thank you for your warm welcome and unwavering support."

Debutants dethrone Sundowns Ladies at the CAF Women’s Champions League

Matlhomola Morake — Sun, 17 Nov 2024 07:47:22 +0000

After trailing from early on in the first half (24’) through a well-taken Melinda Kgadiete goal, the West Africans staged a strong fightback and were rewarded with two goals in stoppage time.

READ: Richards Bay boss Jomo Biyela calls for corporate to invest in PSL

For the first time since the start of the tournament in 2021, Sundowns Ladies, who won this competition twice (2021 and 2023), will not be in the knockout stage. Two years ago (2022) they went all the way only to be dismantled by AS FAR – the only other team to have won it.

Edo Queens, who finished top of Group B, will face off with Group A runners up TP Mazembe of DR Congo, while AS FAR, winners of Group A will go toe to toe with the second-placed FC Masar (Egypt) in a North African derby.

The matches will take place on Tuesday.

Kgadiete rose the highest to head home from a magnificent cross by Karabo Dhlamini. With the never-say-die attitude, Edo Queens kept on knocking and were awarded a penalty after Thato Letsoso was adjudged to have committed a foul. But goalkeeper Andile Dlamini came to the rescue with a save in the 53^rd minute from the boot of Chioma Olise.

Dlamini kept the Brazilians in the game with some great and brave saves, and when she was bridged, the crossbar came to her rescue.

At the 90^th minute mark, Sundowns Ladies were ready to celebrate and the Nigerians were near tears with the approaching exit.

But there was a dramatic turnaround when in the referee's added time Emem Essien pounced to make it 1-1. At this point the tide had shifted, and Edo Queens were back in the semi-finals. They confirmed their spot with a very late goal by Mary Mamudi for a famous 2-1 win for the debutants

This was Sundowns Ladies’ second defeat in the tournament (they lost 1-0 to FC Masar in the opening of the tournament).

In four editions of the CAF Women’s Champions League, Sundowns Ladies have now been defeated three times.

In the other Group B match, which was on the go at the same time, debutants FC Masar registered their second win of the tournament, beating the Central Bank of Ethiopia 2-1 to confirm their place in the last four. Sandrine Niyonkuru and Yassmine Zezo found the back of the net for the Egyptian side while Senaf Wakfuma scored the consolation goal for the Ethiopians.

In the end, Edo Queens finish top of Group B tied on seven points with FC Masar, Sundowns Ladies is third on three points while CBE FC lost all their three matches but managed to record their first goal in the tournament.

Richards Bay boss Jomo Biyela calls for corporate to invest in PSL

Mazola Molefe — Sun, 17 Nov 2024 07:14:54 +0000

Biyela recently concluded a R60-million deal with Phakwe Gas for his club – with an additional R30-million to go towards the local community – and could very well have some fresh ideas.

READ: Kaizer Chiefs edge Sundowns in dramatic shootout to lift Legends Cup

He said it should be a no-brainer for corporate to invest in football.

''Well what is important, as much as some of us, we have managed to acquire some sponsorships but the fact of the matter is that most of the teams are still struggling. So I am not sure why those big companies are skeptical about financing football. To be honest, football is the number one sport in our country. So one of the things we need to do is to sell the sport to prospective sponsors to acknowledge the fact we need some assistance and to acknowledge that football is the number one sport. If you invest in football, you're not just assisting those teams but you're assisting youngsters from townships and rural areas to be part of football,'' said Biyela.

Biyela added that chairman Irvin Khoza’s re-election will also show “stability” for those who are interested in coming on board.

''This league is number one in Africa, and the last time I checked it was number 12 in the world. So he deserves to be here, because we need stability and we need confidence from investors. People have invested their money in terms of sponsorship, so they also want to make it a point that their money is being spent wisely. Just today we managed to get an unqualified audit which is done by PWC Independent Auditors, so we need that kind of stability,'' added Biyela.

Like all the new members in the Exco, Biyela too was asked for his thoughts about a succession plan.

''We need institutional memory, because you can't just come here and do as you please. We people like the Iron Duke so that you can learn from them, not just me but all the members. In terms of what you are speaking about the succession plan, I think he will be very pleased to talk about that. I have just arrived,'' he expressed.

Biyela made it clear that over the next four years serving alongside Khoza and acting CEO Mato Madlala, he wanted to soak up as much experience as possible from the veteran administrators.

Jerry Tshabalala says team lacked hunger after shock exit

Matlhomola Morake — Sun, 17 Nov 2024 06:26:20 +0000

The Brazilians lost 2-1 to an energetic Edo Queens of Nigeria, with the debutants coming from behind to knock the defending champions out of the competition.

READ: Kaizer Chiefs edge Sundowns in dramatic shootout to lift Legends Cup

For the first time in four years, Sundowns Ladies will not contest the final of the tournament they won twice, in 2021 and 2023, and grabbing silver in 2022.

The South Africans got off to a poor start, losing 1-0 in the opening match before bouncing back with 4-0 win.

''To be honest, I don't think we showed any hunger to say we want this more. If you come to the tournament and you start on a negative it becomes difficult to bounce back, but we tried to show character to bounce back in the second game. In the third game it wasn't to be, the players gave it their all but we didn't defend nicely as a team,'' said Tshabalala.

Tshabalala refrained from scolding his players openly, but chose to instead to say it just wasn’t their day.

''I don't want to bash my girls, they gave their all - it wasn't to be. Even with the penalty Andile did well to save the penalty. It wasn't to be for us,'' added Tshabalala.

A dejected Tshabalala described his team’s performance as very disappointing – they managed only one win and two defeats – something that has never happened before with the Chloorkop outfit in this tournament. This was only their third loss in four years.

''A disappointing performance from the team. But in the first half we executed the plan very well, we crossed them very high and didn't allow them space. I think in the last 10 minutes of the first half, we removed the foot off the pedal. Second half I spoke to the girls and said - don't try to lose the ball as much as possible and the only way to do that is to play close to each other. I don't think we created a lot of goal scoring opportunities but it was an intense game,'' he expressed.

Tshabalala says there are some lessons learnt with the early exit – which will see a new champion being crowned. Of the four remaining teams, only AS FAR has won the title, lifting the trophy in 2022.

Sundowns Ladies finished third in Group B with three points. Log leaders Edo Queens and second-placed FC Masar are level on seven points each, while CBE FC are pointless at the bottom of the table. On Tuesday Edo Queens will face off with TP Mazembe of DR Congo, while AS FAR will lock horns with FC Masar (Egypt) in a North African derby. Both matches will be played on Tuesday.

UEFA Nations League wrap: Germany and Netherlands secure big wins

SABC Sport — Sun, 17 Nov 2024 06:11:47 +0000

Germany 7-0 Bosnia and Herzegovina

Germany demolished Bosnia and Herzegovina on Saturday with a statement win. Florian Wirtz and Tim Kleindienst scored two goals apiece to secure top spot in their Nations League group A3 with a game to spare.

Jamal Musiala gave Germany the lead in the second minute after heading Joshua Kimmich's cross past Nikola Vasilj.

It was 2-0 shortly after when Kleindienst's right-footed effort found the bottom right corner. Arsenal's Kai Havertz made it 3-0 before half-time after being picked out in the box by Wirtz. He added a fourth directly from a free kick before scoring his second seven minutes later.

Then Leroy Sane got on the scoresheet before Kleindienst scored his second of the evening to wrap up an emphatic 7-0 win.

The Germans, who travel to Budapest to face Hungary on Tuesday for their last group match, are on an unassailable 13 points with Netherlands in second place.

Netherlands 4-0 Hungary

First-half penalties by Wout Weghorst and Cody Gakpo sent the Oranje on their way, before Denzel Dumfries and Teun Koopmeiners made the game safe in the second period.

The referee stopped play for some ten minutes while Hungary's assistant coach Adam Szalai received treatment, shielded from view by huddled players and staff members, as well as a large white sheet.

Szalai, 36, was stretchered off to applause from spectators and players alike, the Hungarian FA later released a statement saying he was "conscious" and in a "stable condition" in hospital in Amsterdam.

Group B results

Georgia 1-1 Ukraine

Montenegro 0-2 Iceland

Turkey 0-0 Wales

Albania 0-0 Czech Republic

Group C Results

Azerbaijan n0-0 Estonia

Sweden 2-1 Slovakia

France pip All Blacks in Parisian thriller

SABC Sport — Sun, 17 Nov 2024 06:11:12 +0000

In another Autumn Nations Series thriller, Les Bleus went into the break 17-10 in arrears following tries by Peter Lakai and Cam Roigard, but they hit back in the second period.

Fabien Galthie's men moved ahead as Paul Boudehent and Louis Bielle-Biarrey touched down and it was a lead they would not relinquish.

That was despite the accurate kicking of Damian McKenzie, who added four penalties when he came on, but successive Thomas Ramos three-pointers was just enough for France as they edged to a win.

Having won their past five matches, Robertson's outfit came into this game with confidence and, despite an early Ramos three-pointer, they showed why spirits have been significantly lifted in New Zealand.

The visitors manufactured a superb try as superb hands set Ardie Savea free down the left and, after he had fended off the attentions of a couple of defenders, his off-load sent rookie Lakai across the whitewash.

Lakai had come on for Samipeni Finau, who suffered a head injury, but it did not impact the All Blacks as they had the better of the opening half-hour.

With half-backs Cam Roigard and Beauden Barrett dictating things nicely, and the scrum getting to work on the France front-row, the tourists were beginning to control matters.

Les Bleus were already without first-choice props Cyril Baille and Uini Atonio and when Tevita Tatafu was forced off, Georges-Henri Colombe was exposed in the set-piece.

Tamaiti Williams put the big tighthead under significant duress and it was from that pressure which led to Roigard's try. Number eight Gregory Alldritt had to pick up the ball from a retreating scrum and the All Blacks scrum-half was on hand to nick it, speed away and touch down.

There were signs that the hosts were beginning to creak, but they managed to respond as the forwards, guided by the typically excellent Antoine Dupont, made ground through the heart of the opposition defence.

Eventually, New Zealand cracked as Romain Buros crossed the whitewash on debut, Ramos converting, to reduce the arrears.

Although Barrett made it a seven-point buffer at the interval, Les Bleus had shown that they could attack the All Blacks right through the middle and they managed to do the same at the start of the second period.

Galthie's side set up a maul five metres out and rumbled towards the line, allowing Boudehent to touch down. Ramos added the extras and all of a sudden the pressure was back on New Zealand, who perhaps should have gone into the break with a greater lead.

Robertson's men initially handled it well, moving the ball through the phases and almost going over in the left-hand corner, but they then began to force the play.

That was demonstrated by Tupou Vaa'i as the lock's off-load went to ground and was picked up by Ramos. The fly-half then kicked through and the chasing Bielle-Biarrey absolutely burned Sevu Reece to score.

Unperturbed, the All Blacks looked to hit back and increased the pressure on the French, forcing their opponents to infringe in kickable positions.

After coming on as a replacement, McKenzie was successful off the tee on three occasions, but Ramos' own three-pointer just kept the hosts in front going into the final 10 minutes.

It set up a tense conclusion but, unlike against England, New Zealand were unable to get over the line. The respective kickers did trade efforts off the tee in the latter stages, but France managed to maintain that one-point gap.

Cheslin Kolbe shines as Springboks dispatch England at Twickenham

SABC Sport — Sat, 16 Nov 2024 19:11:37 +0000

It wasn't a vintage performance from the Boks, who struggled to find any real rhythm and continuity and didn't play an awful lot of rugby, and it was largely due to individual moments of brilliance from proven match-winners like Eben Etzebeth and Man of the Match Cheslin Kolbe that they were able to score four great tries and keep a spirited England side at bay.

And even when their discipline and execution let them down in the latter stages of the game, key figures again put their hand up and won crucial turnovers to deny the men in white.

England came flying out of the gates, catching the Boks napping with a great try sparked by Marcus Smith. But after a nervy start, the Springboks were ignited by a brilliant solo effort from Grant Williams, who showed just how dangerous he can be with ball in hand.

England hit back from the penalty spot, but then came another moment of magic from the South Africans when a trademark charge-down from Eben Etzebeth led to a try for Pieter-Steph du Toit.

The Boks picked up their third try after a superb crossfield kick out wide from Manie Libbok found Cheslin Kolbe, but England continued to look dangerous, taking advantage of some poor red-zone defence to reduce the deficit via Sam Underhill as it finished 19-17 to the visitors at half-time.

Both sides had tries scratched off to start the second half but England did eventually retake the lead via a Smith penalty, only for Pollard to return the favour following a little help from the crossbar.

With the game balancing on a knife edge, it was a great break from Damian de Allende that finally sparked the Boks as Kolbe stepped past a few defenders for his second try of the evening before Pollard nailed a tough kick to put the visitors nine points clear.

The Boks weren't having a great night from a disciplinary perspective, however, and with a little over 10 minutes to play it eventually resulted in a yellow card for Gerhard Steenekamp, giving England fans hope of a late fightback.

But the Springboks stood firm despite being a man down, winning several crucial turnovers to snuff out any hopes of an England comeback as they emerged deserved winners in the end.

Kaizer Chiefs edge Sundowns in dramatic shootout to lift Legends Cup

SABC Sport — Sat, 16 Nov 2024 18:11:53 +0000

The clash ended goalless after 90 minutes, with the Soweto giants holding their nerve to win 5-4 in sudden death.

Chiefs made a few changes to their starting XI following their victory over Golden Arrows, with goalkeeper Brandon Peterson, Inacio Miguel, Dillon Solomons, and Nkosingiphile Ngcobo all earning starts.

Sundowns, determined to bounce back, included Lucas Ribeiro, Marcelo Allende, and Arthur Sales in their line-up.

The match began with Chiefs pressing early, coming close to opening the scoring when Miguel's header brushed the side-netting. Sundowns, however, weathered the storm, with goalkeeper Sanele Tshabalala making crucial saves, including a powerful effort from Solomons that he tipped away for a corner.

Both teams struggled to break the deadlock despite flashes of creativity.

Chiefs introduced Yusuf Maart for Mfundo Vilakazi, who had shone in their semi-final win, but chances remained scarce in a tightly contested second half.

As the clock ticked down, Sundowns gained momentum and rattled the post in a late attacking surge. However, the match remained goalless, setting up a dramatic penalty shootout.

Chiefs converted all five of their spot-kicks, with Peterson saving Sundowns' final effort in sudden death to secure the victory.

The win highlighted Chiefs' resilience and determination under pressure, as they celebrated lifting the Legends Cup in front of a jubilant crowd.

Line-ups:

Kaizer Chiefs: Brandon Petersen, Dillon Solomons, Given Msimango, Thatayaone Ditlhokwe, Miguel, Reeve Frosler, Nkosingiphile Ngcobo, Sibongiseni Mthethwa, Mduduzi Shabalala, Mfundo Vilakazi, Pule Mmodi, Ashley Du Preez

Substitutes: Bruce Bvuma, Sifiso Hlanti Cossa, Happy Mashiane, Zitha Kwinika, Sinethemba Sam, Keagan Zwane, Yusuf Maart, Mduduzi Mdantsane, Tebogo Potsane, Wandile Duba, Ranga Chivaviro

Mamelodi Sundowns: Sanele Tshabalala, Lebohang Maboe, Ntandoyenkosi Tiwani, Grant Kekana, Siyanda Khoza, Ntando Nkosi, Neo Maema, Marcelo Allende Bravo, Lucas Ribeiro Costa, Thapelo Letlhaku, Arthur Ezra Sales

Substitutes: Reyaad February, Khuliso Mdunyelwa, Thabo Nkabinde, Lyle Seedat, Lesiba Buthelezi, Neo Mareletse, Sphelele Mkhulise, Tshenolo Molubi, Siyanda Jodamus, Ricardo Stevens, Teboho Mokoena

Louis Saha: Man Utd would 'love' to have Cristiano Ronaldo back

SABC Sport — Sat, 16 Nov 2024 18:11:33 +0000

Ronaldo, after a spell at United in his youth during which he won the Ballon d'Or, returned as a legend in 2021. He bagged 27 goals in 54 games on his return, before his contract was cancelled.

It stemmed from being left on the bench by former United manager Ten Hag, who instructed Ronaldo to warm up in a game in which he wanted him to come on, but the striker instead walked down the tunnel.

Ronaldo criticised Ten Hag following his exit, stating United needed to rebuild everything, and since then, the manager has been sacked and replaced by Ruben Amorim.

Now, former Red Devils striker Saha suggests Ronaldo would be welcomed back at Old Trafford, and that he was right about Ten Hag.

"Cristiano Ronaldo would be loved back at Manchester United, he is loved and respected but I also think that he has been misunderstood," he told BoyleSports.

"His second spell came during a period in which the transition was too big and the manager had a dilemma in trying to show that he is strong by leaving him out.

"The manager wanted to show his character, to show that he's a strong guy and I think that was where the clash started. If you look at his stats then you can't argue with his goals during his first season back at the club.

"Cristiano Ronaldo at the time had strong words in regards to the management and the board, but after two years you can see that he was right."

After two spells at the club, it is unlikely that Ronaldo would be welcomed back, especially after the manner of his exit last time.

Though he was still a good asset when last he played there, the Portuguese is almost 40, and has been playing in Saudi Arabia for the past two years.

Proteas coach Rob Walter: 'Ultimately the performance of the team rests with me'

Nasri Alexander — Sat, 16 Nov 2024 17:11:28 +0000

The hosts went down by a margin of 135 runs in the final T20I at the Wanderers on Friday after the tourists racked up a record total of 283-1 in the first innings.

Walter has now overseen seven bilateral T20I series and not won any of them, with plenty of senior players given time to rest at different stages.

While the Proteas did make their first-ever ICC final at the T20 World Cup in earlier this year, the coach admitted the results in bilateral series is difficult to accept.

"Every coach has great pride in the job they produce," Walter said. "Ultimately the performance of the team rests with me because I'm the head coach, so I'm responsible for that."

"To lose a series and to lose games of cricket never sits well, and if we don't move forward as a side, that doesn't sit well either because ultimately we need to be continually moving forward at the very least."

When asked to explain the difference in results when playing at the global tournament and in bilateral series', Walter pointed to the players that he had available.

He added: "The easy answer is that when we go to the world tournaments, we're picking our very best 15 players but we can't pick those same 15 players every single time we play.

"It's just not feasible. It's just too much cricket. So, the rest of the time we have to build our base of players up to be to the same level."

Sundowns Ladies eyeing a victory in CAF Women’s CL clash against Edo Queens

Matlhomola Morake — Sat, 16 Nov 2024 14:31:36 +0000

With Group B still undecided as to who will progress to the last four, both teams will be desperate for maximum points, but the defending champions have three points after two games, while Queens have four.

Anything less than a victory for the South Africans will mean the end of their journey in this year’s competition.

"First of all, we are a group of players that have big hearts and we believe in one another and going into our final [group] game, I believe that we are gonna give everything on the field, knowing that it's very important for us to get maximum three points so that we can qualify for the semi-finals," said Mokwena.

"I'd say the mindset of the players, we are really well focused because we know what is expected from us and we know that we have to be out there and show why we are the defending champions. So, we have to pick ourselves up and go out there and fight."

Mokwena’s sentiments were echoed by Sundowns Ladies coach Jerry Tshabalala who added that they are aware of the strength of the Nigerian team. This will be the first time the two teams meet.

READ: Thinasonke Mbuli proud of UWC players despite early exit

"We are playing against a very, very good side but from our side, we have prepared. We've already started preparing the team in terms of what is expected of them,” Tshabalala said.

“We know for us it's a must-win, the only result that could take us to the semi-finals, is a win, other than that we are packing our bags and we are going home which is something that we are not thinking about, we just wanna go all the way and defend the title."

Sundowns Ladies will be without the injured experienced defender Bambanani Mbane who was withdrawn 15 minutes into their previous match with CBE FC.

In the other Group B match, FC Masar takes on Central Bank of Ethiopia. Kickoff is at 7pm South African time.

Only the top two teams will progress to the semi-finals where AS FAR and TP Mazembe are already waiting.

Aphelele Fassi trusted in the Bok camp to show his class against England

Velile Mnyandu — Sat, 16 Nov 2024 12:56:04 +0000

Fassi has been selected as a fullback in the first 15, ahead of veteran campaigner Willie le Roux, who could have been playing in his 99th test match and edged closer to his century of test matches.

Erasmus, who believes in the traditional gradual introduction of talent, says this is the perfect game for Fassi to prove his talent.

"You're so right, I'm really glad you asked that question because we can understand what the fans see and what the opposition sees and what the media see and their families see. We are talking about all players but sometimes you just have that feeling you know, he hasn't had a klaap from the opposition yet in a big game where he got the shock and says 'Yay, now I'm in the big league' and he has to get that somewhere,” Erasmus said.

“Now if he's getting that in a team where there is a lot of youngsters, you need somebody to stand by him. I think the way we help him, he's become a gritty tough player while having the magic that Fassi has."

READ: Rassie Erasmus talks up the rivalry against England and Twickenham’s record

Erasmus, who calls Fassi the “township tackler”, believes that the Sharks fullback comes to this game with the skills needed in the kind of game that the Boks want to play.

"Now he's gliding over the field but he's also really physical and also really goes harder for the ball and he also defends very well. The way he's testing the guys there and he will get tested on that and the crowd make a massive thing,” the coach added.

“80 000 people, that ball is going a little bit higher and you can hear the footsteps. So, yes we try to do it at the right times, we don't always get it right but sometimes you wait a little bit longer and then the guy's career might just go a little bit deeper if you do it the right way."

Kenyan runners Fridah Ndinda and Vincent Kipkorir dominate the inaugural Joburg 10km

Charles Baloyi — Sat, 16 Nov 2024 11:28:01 +0000

The highly anticipated race, which drew 8,000 participants, offered the richest 10km prize in South Africa, with the Kenyan winners each earning R37,500.

Neheng Khatala finished second in the women’s race in 34:29, while Karabo More was the first South African to cross the line, securing third place with a time of 34:33.

"I'm happy to be back here, I was here in August. I just want to say thank you to God for giving me this chance to win the Hollywoodbets 10 kilometre, I'm so happy," Ndinda said.

Previously held exclusively in Durban, the event made its debut in Gauteng, where it received an enthusiastic response from local runners and spectators alike.

Ndinda shared with the national broadcaster that she found the hilly course in Joburg both challenging and enjoyable.

While many runners struggled with the demanding terrain, they appreciated the favourable weather conditions.

READ: Thabang Mosiako not in a hurry to find a new coach

"Talking about the route, the weather was good first, it was not hot. The route was hard for sure, it has many hills and downhills but I enjoyed the course, quite good," she added.

After competing in a local 10km race in August, she returned to South Africa and claimed victory, praising the country's facilities as among the best on the continent.

"This is the last race to do in South Africa. I'm going back now, the season has started. The weather in Kenya is quite good compared to South Africa. Many people you see train in Kenya and when they come to other countries, they do well in races."

Ruud van Nistelrooy eyes new coaching job after Man Utd stint

SABC Sport — Sat, 16 Nov 2024 11:11:31 +0000

Van Nistelrooy has turned to coaching after retiring from playing and had a successful spell at PSV Eindhoven during the 2022/23 campaign.

During this season, he helped them win the Johan Cruyff Shield and KNVB Cup but left at the end of the season after claiming he wasn't backed enough.

The 48-year-old returned to Man Utd ahead of the 2024/25 season as he was named Erik ten Hag's assistant at Old Trafford.

The two Dutchmen only worked with each other for around four months as Ten Hag was sacked at the end of last month.

Van Nistelrooy was named interim boss while Man Utd waited for the arrival of new head coach Ruben Amorim, who officially joined the Premier League giants this week.

The club legend won three of his four matches in charge but has left Man Utd as Amorim opted to bring his staff from Sporting Lisbon with him to Old Trafford.

The dynamic between Amorim and Van Nistelrooy could have been awkward as the latter has managerial ambitions.

Earlier this week, a report from The Sun claimed Van Nistelrooy could 'make an instant return to English football' as Championship outfit Burnley are 'interested' in him.

Before Van Nistelrooy returned to Man Utd, he was in line to join Burnley following last season's relegation. The Clarets appointed Scott Parker after missing out on the Dutchman and they are fourth in the Championship after 15 games.

Burnley could miss out on Van Nistelrooy as a report from The Mirror claims he's 'applied for the manager's job' at Coventry City after they sacked Mark Robins.

Van Nistelrooy is facing competition from former Chelsea and Everton boss Frank Lampard as Coventry City owner Doug King has confirmed heÃ¢™s also applied for the job.

FSG convinced Trent Alexander-Arnold will turn down Real Madrid

SABC Sport — Sat, 16 Nov 2024 11:11:19 +0000

The Reds vice-captain is regarded as one of the finest right-backs in world football after contributing towards a colossal 102 goals (19 goals, 83 assists) in his Reds career from 325 appearances - a goal contribution every 3.18 games.

Having also helped Liverpool win seven trophies, starting with their Champions League triumph in 2019, Alexander-Arnold's importance to the Reds cause cannot be underestimated.

But with his current deal due to expire at the season's end, Alexander-Arnold has been linked with a lucrative free-transfer move to Real Madrid at the end of the season.

The Spaniards have not hidden away from their desire to land the 26-year-old either and the fact that he can sign a pre-contract agreement from January 1 - just 46 days from now - has given reason for concern.

However, journalist Graeme Bailey, writing for TBR, claims good news is around the corner for Liverpool and he has now reported on a breakthrough in talks over a new deal.

And he has revealed exactly when the 33-times capped England star will sign on the dotted line and the record-breaking amount he will receive.

'TBR Football understands Liverpool are determined to tie down Trent Alexander-Arnold and talks have been continuing with his camp in recent weeks,' Bailey wrote.

'We previously revealed that Real Madrid are interested in Alexander-Arnold and now some of Europe's biggest clubs have joined them in the race for his signature.

'But Liverpool sources have confirmed to us that they are highly confident that the 26-year-old will put pen to paper before Christmas on his new deal.

'Liverpool have offered him the largest contract they have ever made to a homegrown player, indeed it would put him on par with Mo Salah and make him the highest-paid English player in the Premier League.'

Thinasonke Mbuli proud of UWC players despite early exit

Matlhomola Morake — Sat, 16 Nov 2024 10:41:00 +0000

The Capetonians needed a win to progress to the semi-finals, but TP Mazembe and AS FAR pipped them to the two available spots.

UWC finished third on the table – log leaders AS FAR have nine and Mazembe six.

Mbuli says her players displayed the UWC play.

"I feel very proud, someone will say why am I proud after a loss but it's the first time in this tournament that my team played the way they train. This is us every day, performing like this, starting from training to our games at home. We played without fear, we were in control of the game, we created more chances than them," Mbuli said.

READ: End of the road for UWC in the CAF Women’s Champions League

Mbuli’s main concern is the failure by her charges to convert chances into goals when they had the ability to do so.

"But I knew that if we keep on missing chances, they are gonna get one, two and then finish the game but overall performance, I'm happy. There's a bit of positives that I can take from this game but the bravery, of playing the UWC way against the number two team in Africa. I'm very proud, we didn't get the result we wanted but I'll take this home, I'm very proud," she added.

Although they went toe to toe with the more experienced North Africans, Mbuli was full of praise for AS FAR.

"A very good team, I said that in our previous press conference. Technically good side, I think one of the best few teams in Africa and no wonder they are dominant in terms of number of players in the Moroccan national team because of how they play,” the coach continued.

“They are a very good side, you hardly find players that are all at the same level in terms of how their technical abilities. So, yeah, a very good side, I hope they do well in the tournament but I'm still supporting Sundowns."

Raul Asencio's breakthrough, a new era for Real Madrid's defence

SABC Sport — Sat, 16 Nov 2024 10:11:55 +0000

The 20-year-old defender's impressive 60-minute performance for Real Madrid against Osasuna on November 9 has not only skyrocketed his popularity, with his Instagram followers more than doubling to over 400,000, but also shifted the course of his football future.

Asencio's debut under Carlo Ancelotti was nothing short of spectacular. The match ended with a 4-0 victory, a clean sheet, and an assist to Jude Bellingham, marking his arrival in the senior team with confidence. However, his sudden prominence has stirred things up in the transfer market.

Clubs that had been quietly working on securing the Castilla player's signature, including top-flight sides like Girona and Celta Vigo, as well as a prominent Portuguese club, now face a much more difficult challenge. Real Madrid's plan to keep him have gained momentum, making it increasingly unlikely that Asencio will leave in January, and much more expensive if they entertain a move in the summer.

This was not the first time Asencio had caught the eye. During the summer transfer window, the young defender was considered one of La Fabrica's most coveted talents. Despite numerous offers, Madrid's hefty demands, coupled with Raul's reluctance to lose such a key figure in the academy, meant that he stayed put.

Yet, the interest has not faded, with several clubs still keen on securing his services. With his recent breakthrough, however, Real Madrid are now determined to block any future moves for the defender.

One key question in the coming months will be whether Madrid choose to make Asencio a permanent fixture in the first team. His contract runs until 2026, and given the club's current defensive struggles, his emergence could offer a timely solution.

Many within the club see Asencio as a potential new Nacho, a product of the academy who can seamlessly integrate into the first team and strengthen the defence, which has been frail at times this season.

Alongside Asencio, Madrid's academy also boasts other talented defenders, such as Victor Valdepenas, Jacobo Ramon, Diego Aguado and Joan Martinez, all of whom are seen as key prospects for the future.

As Real Madrid assess their defensive options, these young players could provide the club with much-needed depth without relying on costly signings in the market.

Alphonso Davies' future unclear as agent dismisses Real Madrid rumours

SABC Sport — Sat, 16 Nov 2024 10:11:52 +0000

Speaking to Munich-based outlet TZ, Huoseh clarified: "Although the player has many options, we have not reached an agreement with any club."

Davies, whose contract with Bayern Munich runs out at the end of the season, has yet to agree on an extension with the Bundesliga giants.

Despite this, Huoseh has insisted staying in Bavaria remains a possibility. "Bayern could also be an option. All reports claiming otherwise are false," he emphasised.

While Real Madrid have been touted as a leading contender for the Canadian internationals signature, Barcelona are also believed to be monitoring the situation closely.

Davies has established himself as one of the world's top left-backs, making him a prized target for Europe's elite clubs.

Goretzka's Future at Bayern Under the Spotlight

Meanwhile, Bayern Munich midfielder Leon Goretzka has taken a step that could signal a shift in his career.

On Friday, it was confirmed that Goretzka had signed with ROOF, a prominent sports agency representing players such as Serge Gnabry, Kai Havertz, and Konrad Laimer.

Goretzka's playing time has diminished since Vincent Kompany took charge of Bayern, sparking rumours of a potential exit.

Although the club appears willing to part ways with the 28-year-old, Goretzka has not openly expressed a desire to leave. However, with his situation unchanged, a move could become more likely.

The German international made his first start of the season in Bayern's victory against St. Pauli before the international break.

With Aleksandar Pavlovic and Joao Palhinha sidelined due to injuries, Goretzka's presence could prove crucial in upcoming fixtures.

The futures of both Davies and Goretzka remain uncertain, but their next steps could significantly shape Bayern's squad and transfer plans.

Rassie Erasmus talks up the rivalry against England and Twickenham’s record

Velile Mnyandu — Sat, 16 Nov 2024 09:22:04 +0000

The Boks have only won one of their previous four matches against England at Twickenham, a 27-13 win in 2022. In this game, they face the wounded hosts, and Erasmus has reiterated the importance of not looking down at them in front of their home crowd.

"The scrums, no, we've got them on a few occasions but they've certainly outnumbered us on few occasions and yes, the World Cup final, we didn't get that last scrum but it was a battle from the beginning until the end,” Erasmus said.

“So, for them to be fair though, I think the last six times that we've played outside the World Cup or five times, they won four. So, realistically we are not living in this bubble. We don't have a great record here and because they might be a little bit under pressure gives us no advantage because we haven't done well at Twickenham in the last four, five years."

READ: Bafana Bafana celebrate AFCON qualification with victory in Uganda

The rivalry between the two rugby nations has also been fueled by Bok's dominance over England at the last two World Cups after beating them in the 2019 final in Japan and in last year’s semifinal in France, respectively.

Erasmus recalls how this rivalry has always been the one to look forward to, even during his playing days.

"It's sometimes nice talking in a none rivalry. We are always under pressure, even the way we won last weekend, our people expect us to be better than that and we understand that fully but no, the rivalry is great,” the coach added.

“I remember when we were still playing and we won 17 test matches in a row and we wanted to break the record for 17 in a row, the 18th one, England stopped us. You know it's always been when we played at the World Cup in 1999.

“I played in the match when Johnny had a drop goal against Australia when they won the World Cup. England's always been an iconic place. Twickenham is special and the history around it and the kind of players that they produced. It will be a really tough match out there, we are under no illusions that it will be 50/50."

Man City eager to see Erling Haaland pen contract extension

SABC Sport — Sat, 16 Nov 2024 09:11:32 +0000

Man City paid around Ã‚£51m to sign Haaland from Borussia Dortmund during the 2021 summer transfer window and he's proven to be a huge bargain.

Following his move to the Etihad, Haaland has established himself as one of the best strikers in the world as he's scored 105 goals in his 114 appearances across all competitions.

Haaland is tied to Man City for a few more seasons as his current contract does not expire until 2027. Despite this, he is being heavily linked with an exit and a 'surprise Plan B' are challenging Real Madrid and Barcelona in the race to sign him.

Any club in the world would surely be delighted to sign Haaland, but he is in talks with Man City over a contract extension and a report from journalist Graeme Bailey says they are "confident about agreeing terms".

Bailey also claims Man City have "come to terms" with Haaland's new deal having a release clause and has explained how he expects this would work.

"City are confident about agreeing terms. They've been trying for two years," Bailey revealed.

"Obviously, the issue has always been the release clauses, which are not going to be removed from the contracts in any way, shape or form. It's not going to happen. City have come to terms with that.

"Their hope is that they can be altered in terms of when they come into play. If he signs a new deal for instance in the next few weeks or months, which City hope, that will, from my understanding, mean it won't be allowed to be triggered until 2026 rather than 2025.

"They're not massively worried as the clauses are going to be huge anyway for teams to meet that. And Haaland has always had these in, they make sure these are in there for the long-term safety of the player.

"It's just the situation that every contract Haaland has ever signed has had release clauses and that's not going to change for this one. It's nothing to do with him, or an exit strategy or anything like that, it's just how they work."

AFCON 2025 qualifiers: Ghana miss out, Zimbabwe, Zambia secure spots

SABC Sport — Sat, 16 Nov 2024 08:11:19 +0000

Angola 1-1 Ghana

Ghana's hopes of reaching the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations were dashed after a 1-1 draw with Group F leaders Angola in Luanda on Friday.

Despite Jordan Ayew's early strike in the 18th minute, Angola equalised in the 63rd minute, securing their qualification for the tournament.

With one round of qualification matches remaining, Ghana sit fourth in the group with just three points from five games, a stark contrast to their illustrious AFCON history as four-time champions.

Under current manager Otto Addo, the Black Stars have struggled, scoring only twice across the campaign.

Ghana's results in Group F have been underwhelming: a home loss to Angola, two draws with Niger and Sudan, and a 2-0 defeat in Sudan. Sudan, currently second in the group, are three points clear of Niger and on track for qualification.

Gabon 1-5 Morocco

Morocco secured a thrilling victory over Gabon in their African Cup of Nations qualifier at Stade de Franceville, defeating the hosts 3-1. Madrid striker Brahim stole the spotlight with a stellar performance, scoring a decisive brace in the first half.

Gabon initially took the lead through Bouanga, whose strike energised the home crowd. However, Morocco's resilience shone through when Harkass equalised in the 17th minute. Just minutes later, Brahim turned the match around.

The first of Brahim's goals came in the 20th minute, a skilful finish from a rebound following a corner. He doubled his tally in the 23rd minute, capitalising on a well-flicked corner to outmanoeuvre the Gabonese defence.

Zambia 1-0 Ivory Coast

Kennedy Musonda scored the only goal as Zambia surprised Ivory Coast with a 1-0 victory to move up to the top of Group G, while the Elephants were already qualified prior to kick-off.

Gambia 1-2 Comoros

Comoros secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over The Gambia in a thrilling Group A encounter, played in The Gambia. The win ensured Comoros' qualification for the finals, marking their return after missing the 2023 edition.

The Gambia took an early lead when Alassana Jatta scored in the 18th minute, energising the home crowd. However, Comoros quickly responded, with Rafiki Said equalising shortly after.

The match seemed destined for a draw until Myziane Maolida netted a sensational winner in the 90th minute, sealing the crucial three points.

This result eliminated The Gambia from Group A contention, while Comoros advanced alongside Tunisia. It is another milestone for Comoros, who reached the last 16 on their debut at the 2021 finals.

Cape Verde 1-1 Egypt

Cape Verde were eliminated from qualification despite securing a 1-1 draw at home against Egypt on Saturday.

Egypt, already assured of their place in the tournament, fielded a rotated squad, resting key players such as Mohamed Salah and in-form forward Omar Marmoush.

The spotlight now shifts to Botswana and Mauritania in the race for qualification. Botswana need at least a point from their crucial away match against Egypt on Tuesday to secure their spot.

Meanwhile, Mauritania can claim the second place in the group if they defeat Cape Verde at home and Botswana lose to Egypt in Cairo.

Other results:

Eswatini 1-1 Guinea Bissau

Mozambique 0-1 Mali

Zimbabwe 1-1 Kenya

Botswana 1-1 Mauritania

AFCON 2025 qualified teams:

Morocco (hosts), Algeria, Angola, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Comoros, DR Congo, Egypt, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Ivory Coast, Nigeria, Mali, Senegal, South Africa, Tunisia, Uganda, Zambia, Zimbabwe

End of the road for UWC in the CAF Women’s Champions League

Matlhomola Morake — Sat, 16 Nov 2024 07:58:06 +0000

This was their final group stage fixture, and the South Africans have now suffered two defeats in the competition, finishing third on the table in Group A with three points, behind leaders AS FAR on nine while second placed TP Mazembe of DR Congo is on six. Senegal’s Aigles de la Medina, who were knocked out alongside UWC, return home without any points.

“Though our CAF Women’s Champions League 20234 journey ends early, our hearts fill with pride. Every match was a testament to our resilience and passion. This isn’t the end; it’s just the beginning. Thank you Blue family for your incredible support— we’ll come back stronger,” said UWC on X.

It was always going to be difficult for the Capetonians after losing their opening match 2-0 to TP Mazembe, with the hosts lying in wait in the final group stage match.

UWC coach Thinasonke Mbuli called it “their final before the final” and it was exactly that.

The South Africans had chances to take the lead as they got out of the blocks first, but the Moroccans were resolute in defence.

Ten minutes before the break Mbuli’s side was bridged from the penalty spot after Simnikiwe Mhlakazi brought down Sanaa Mssoudy, and Doha El Madani gave the North African’s the lead.

READ: Nonkululeko Mlaba's cricket success not surprising to her development coach

UWC fought back after the recess with Tiffany Kortjie almost benefitting from a defensive error, but Khadija Er-Rmichi pulled off a brilliant save.

El Madani completed her brace in the 62^nd minute, giving the 2022 champions a 2-0 win but also confirming the end of the journey for The Blues.

They will go down in history for being the first university side to qualify for the tournament, and for grabbing a win in their debut appearance.

In the other Group A match, TP Mazembe cruised to the semi-finals with an impressive 4-0 victory over the winless Aigles de la Medina.

By virtue of finishing top of Group A, AS FAR now waits for the runner up in Group B, while TP Mazembe has a date with the group B leaders.

In Group A, Edo Queens of Nigeria are on four points, level with FC Masar, followed by Sundowns Ladies on three points while CBE have no points on the table.

Group B concludes their business this evening (Saturday) when defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies attempt to gain a spot in the last four. They face a stubborn Edo Queens who need only a draw to progress. FC Masar takes on Central Bank of Ethiopia.

Both matches kick off at 7pm South African time

Viktor Gyokeres snubs Man Utd as Chelsea lead race to sign him

SABC Sport — Sat, 16 Nov 2024 07:11:54 +0000

The Sweden international left Championship outfit Coventry City to join Sporting Lisbon during the 2023 summer transfer window for around Ã‚£15m.

Gyokeres has proven to be a huge bargain as he's been a phenomenal signing for the Primeira Liga champions. The 2024 top scorer in Europe has grabbed 66 goals and 19 assists in his 68 appearances for the Portuguese side across all competitions.

Under Ruben Amorim, Gyokeres has emerged as one of the best strikers in Europe and he's likely to earn himself a big move next year.

Following Amorim's move to Man Utd, Gyokeres has been heavily linked with a move to the Premier League giants.

Amorim has a huge job as Man Utd are 13th in the Premier League after eleven matches. The Red Devils have struggled in front of goal this season as they have only scored 12 goals in the league.

A report from Portuguese journalist Sergio Krithinas says Man Utd should be preparing to miss out on Gyokeres as the forward is 'unconvinced' by the Premier League outfit.

He explained: "I think Amorim would definitely like to have Gyokeres on his team, but I think Gyokeres is not very keen on Man Utd.

"The only reason, from what I know, that Gyokeres would go to Man Utd would be because of Amorim. He loves Amorim, he knows how to get the best out of him, but Gyokeres isn't very keen on Man Utd because all the top clubs in Europe are watching him.

"So I think Gyokeres would be happier overall in a different place [and] from what I know, there's a gentleman's agreement between Sporting and the player to release him for around 80 million Euros."

While a move to Man Utd is seemingly off the table, Chelsea are reportedly in the running to land Gyokeres and a report in Spain says they are the 'favourites'.

'With several of Europe's top clubs closely monitoring his progress, Chelsea appear to have taken the lead in the race to sign one of the most sought-after attackers in football today.

'Chelsea's need to strengthen its forward line, after a season marked by a lack of attacking force, makes him the most likely destination for the Swede.

'Sporting Lisbon, aware of the value of their star, are looking to get the maximum financial return from a possible sale.

'The operation could be one of the most significant of the next market, marking a new chapter in Gyokeres' career and leaving a difficult-to-fill void in the Portuguese club's attack. The next few weeks will be key to defining his future.'

Springboks confident but wary of wounded England at sold-out Twickenham

SABC Sport — Sat, 16 Nov 2024 07:11:47 +0000

The Boks expect the hosts to be highly motivated and a little bit desperate as they bid to halt a string of four defeats in a row, which should make them an even more dangerous prospect going into what will be their first meeting since last year's Rugby World Cup semi-final.

"They will be dangerous because we know how it feels to lose a few games in a row and what it took to turn things up again," said Kolisi.

"We lost a few on the trot in Australia before, and such a situation can definitely pull a team together. They are also playing at home and will have their home crowd behind them, so we they'll be geared up for the challenge."

Zooming in on their own game, Kolisi said: "We want to rectify our record here as a team (the Boks have lost three of their last four matches at the iconic stadium), and although we won last week (against Scotland), we have high standards, and it's important for us to return to those standards as a group."

Springbok assistant coach Mzwandile Stick echoed the Bok skipper's sentiments: "Losing two matches right at the end of the game doesn't make them a bad team. In the World Cup semi-final many people didn't give them a chance against us, and they caught people by surprise with the way they played in that match.

"When we say they are desperate, it certainly isn't negative, we mean they will have more motivation. They've named a quality team, and they have a strong kicking game, so if we are not at our best, they can beat us.

"They're playing at the Allianz Stadium in front of 85 000 fans, so we cannot afford to be less than our best because we know it's going to take an 80-minute effort, so we cannot switch off."

Kolisi said the Boks have been taken aback by the support for the team on their tour of the UK thus far and said they owe it to their supporters to put up a good performance at Twickenham.

"The support for the team has definitely been growing," he said. "Wherever we go there are Springbok supporters and some of them have travelled around the world to see us.

"The only way to thank them is by our performances on the field, so we always want to go out there and give our best.

"We also have immense support at home with people watching matches on television and at malls. Our people keep us accountable and give us hope because it gives us something greater to play for than the team."

With prop Wilco Louw set to become the 50th player to run out in the green and gold jersey this season on Saturday, Kolisi praised head coach Rassie Erasmus for managing to keep the Boks on a successful path despite his long-term vision to build squad depth and transform the team.

"When Rassie took over (the job) in 2018, he said his plan was based around three elements Ã¢- winning, transforming the team, and building squad depth," the skipper added.

"To see Wilco become the 50th player to take the field for the team this year while Rassie has been rotating the squad and we've been able to win most of matches is something to be proud of, and ensures that looking forward, if there are injuries we have a wealth of players who can step in at any time."

UEFA Nations League wrap: Dominant Portugal storm into last eight

SABC Sport — Sat, 16 Nov 2024 07:11:22 +0000

Here's a recap of Friday's action.

Portugal 5-1 Poland: Rafael Leao Leads the Charge

Portugal secured their place in the quarter-finals with a scintillating second-half performance against Poland in Lisbon.

The visitors controlled the early exchanges, but Rafael Leao broke the deadlock in the 59th minute with a powerful header. From there, Portugal shifted into high gear, delivering a ruthless 16-minute blitz. Cristiano Ronaldo chipped in with a trademark penalty and an acrobatic overhead kick, while Bruno Fernandes and Pedro Neto added emphatic finishes.

Poland's Dominik Marczuk netted a late consolation, but the Selecao's offensive prowess proved too much, clinching the quarter-final berth with a game to spare.

Denmark 1-2 Spain: Ayoze Perez and Mikel Oyarzabal shine

Spain confirmed top spot in Group A4 with a gritty victory over Denmark in Copenhagen.

Ayoze Perez struck the crossbar early on but set up Mikel Oyarzabal for a clinical 15th-minute opener. Perez doubled the lead after the break, slotting home from Dani Olmo's assist. Denmark fought back, with substitute Gustav Isaksen hitting the post before pouncing on a defensive error to score late. However, Spain held firm to maintain their unbeaten run.

Switzerland 1-1 Serbia: Relegation for the Swiss

Switzerland were relegated from League A after a dramatic draw against Serbia in Zurich.

Despite a tense first half that saw Noah Okafor hit the crossbar, the breakthrough came in the second. Gregor Kobel denied Aleksandar Mitrovic's penalty, and Zeki Amdouni's superb half-volley gave the Swiss a vital lead in the 79th minute. But Serbia struck back with Aleksa Terzic converting a counterattack in the 88th minute to snatch a point and seal Switzerland's fate.

Scotland 1-0 Croatia: Late John McGinn magic

Scotland kept their qualification hopes alive with a hard-fought win over ten-man Croatia in Glasgow.

Craig Gordon made critical saves early on before Croatia's Petar Sucic was sent off for a second yellow just before half-time. After Mario Pasalic missed a golden chance, Scotland capitalised late. Ben Doak's shot was parried, and substitute John McGinn smashed home the rebound to secure victory and deny Croatia a quarter-final spot.

Best of the Rest

San Marino kept their hopes alive in Group D1, as Nicola Nanni's late penalty denied Gibraltar promotion.

Northern Ireland maintained their lead in Group C3 with a 2-0 win over Belarus, keeping Bulgaria at bay for promotion.

Friday's Results:

Group A1: Portugal 5-1 Poland, Scotland 1-0 Croatia

Group A4: Denmark 1-2 Spain, Switzerland 1-1 Serbia

Group C2: Cyprus 2-1 Lithuania, Romania 0-0 Kosovo

Group C3: Luxembourg 0-1 Bulgaria, Northern Ireland 2-0 Belarus

Group D1: San Marino 1-1 Gibraltar

Ireland overcome resilient Argentina to secure narrow triumph in Dublin

SABC Sport — Sat, 16 Nov 2024 07:11:00 +0000

Jack Crowley led the charge, scoring 12 points with a try, drop goal, and two conversions, while Mack Hansen and Joe McCarthy also crossed the try line. Tomas Albornoz was perfect for Argentina, converting four penalties and one try, but it wasn't enough to keep the Pumas in the game.

Ireland looked to apply pressure early on after a charge down following the restart but Argentina forced a turnover and cantered upfield with Argentina winger Bautista Delguy beating several defenders before Matias Moroni crossed the whitewash. However, the try was chalked off after Moroni was judged to have tackled flyhalf Crowley high and was sent to the sin bin.

Andy Farrell's charges quickly pounced and made the most of the man advantage as they struck from the resulting lineout with RÃƒ³nan Kelleher powering off the back of a slick lineout move and moments later it was Crowley who forced his way over for his first-ever Test try which he duly converted.

Ireland scored their second try in just six minutes when Garry Ringrose tore through the defence after a spilt ball and raced into the Argentina 22. Jamison Gibson-Park whipped a wide pass to Tadhg Beirne who unselfishly passed in side to Hansen to score his first try of the year after making his return from injury against New Zealand a week ago.

Albornoz converted a penalty moments before Moroni returned from his sin-binning to make it 12-3, and soon it was Ireland's turn to go down a man as tighthead prop Finlay Bealham was sent to the sidelines for a croc roll on his opposite number Joel Sclavi, allowing Albornoz to add another penalty.

Ireland's response came through Crowley again as the pivot nailed a drop goal to cancel out Los Pumas' penalty on 21 minutes. Kelleher ran an obstruction line four minutes later, allowing Albornoz another shot at reducing the lead and he duly took it.

McCarthy barged over for Ireland's third when they were back to 15 men as James Lowe snuck through the smallest of holes after a lineout and the second rower crashed over as Ireland went 22-9 up after 32 minutes.

Argentina applied the pressure in the final moments of the half twice coming close to scoring a late try but were denied once by the bounce of the ball and another time by Beirne holding up the ball carrier, a turnover with the clocking going red denied the visitors as Ireland held a 13 point advantage at the break.

After the break, it was the Pumas who drew first blood as Mallia scathed through the initial defence before racing into the Ireland 22 and skinned Hansen with a superb step to score the South American side's first try of the game and cut the lead to six points. Ireland were put under the pump in the early knockings of the second half and McCarthy paid the price after he was caught offside and was sent to the bin. From the resulting penalty, Albornoz made it a three-point game.

Momentum looked to have swung in Los Pumas' favour after a crucial late turnover but that was undone by a horrid Francisco Gomez Kodela clearout that resulted in the replacement prop being yellow-carded.

Ireland again went on the offensive but were denied by another breakdown pilfer giving the Pumas another shot at a famous victory, but Contepomi's charges came up short despite working their way deep into the hosts' 22 but they were shut out as the clock went into the red.

Jake Paul defeats 58-year-old Mike Tyson in one-sided boxing showdown

SABC Sport — Sat, 16 Nov 2024 08:30:22 +0000

The 58-year-old Tyson - a former heavyweight legend who retired from the sport nearly 20 years ago - struggled throughout the eight-round bout at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, landing few punches while Paul controlled the fight.

The judges scored it overwhelmingly in Paul's favour: 80-72, 79-73, and 79-73.

Paul, 27, was able to outclass the aging icon through his superior speed and agility, putting Tyson in trouble with a flurry of punches in the third round. Despite his dominance, however, Paul was unable to deliver the knockout he had promised during their heated weigh-in.

Tyson, visibly showing his age, landed only a handful of significant punches. Post-fight statistics revealed he connected on just 18 of 97 attempts, compared to Paul's 78 of 278.

As the final seconds of the eighth round ticked away, Paul paused to bow in respect to Tyson, sealing his victory with a touch of showmanship before the bell rang.

Paul is expected to earn a guaranteed $40 million from the fight, which could potentially increase based on bonuses or other revenue streams. Tyson, meanwhile, will walk away with a guaranteed $20 million, though these figures do not include potential sponsorships or merchandise revenue, which could further increase their total earnings.

Emma Raducanu leads Great Britain to victory in injury comeback at BJK Cup

SABC Sport — Sat, 16 Nov 2024 06:11:52 +0000

Katie Boulter followed that up with a 6-1 6-2 win against Laura Siegemund as the Brits sealed a 2-0 victory to set up a meeting with defending champions Canada in Sunday's quarter-finals.

Raducanu served 10 aces in her 6-4 6-4 win - although there were seven double faults and six match points as well.

"I think I played some really good tennis today," she said after the match. "I haven't played a match in a long time so I think these are small sharpness things that come. I'm very proud of how I managed to regroup and close out in that final game."

Later, Iga Swiatek helped Poland defeat home favourites Spain to set up a quarter-final against the Czech Republic.

This was Raducanu's first competitive outing in nearly two months after a foot injury forced her off the court.

She had the advantage on ranking over Niemeier, a powerful 25-year-old who reached the Wimbledon quarter-finals two years ago, sitting at 58 compared to her opponent's 92.

It was the higher-ranked Raducanu who made the first move, a fiercely struck forehand return earning her a break at 3-3.

The Briton then saved five break points in the next game to hold onto her lead, helped by four of the seven aces she served in the opening set.

Raducanu confidently served it out and then broke again to start the second, this time drilling a backhand return into the corner.

Raducanu was unable to prevent Niemeier retrieving the break but she went straight back on the offensive and opened up a 5-2 lead.

Finishing off matches has at times been a problem for Raducanu and she double-faulted on match point, with Niemeier going on to break, before seeing three more chances go begging on the German's serve.

Then, at the sixth time of asking Raducanu did finally make it across the line, bouncing up and down and pumping her fist to her team-mates.

Raducanu was then given an extra treat in the post match presentation as the vocal band that had been boosting the atmosphere with their trumpets broke into a birthday chorus to celebrate Raducanu's 22nd birthday, which she toasted last Wednesday.

Thabang Mosiako not in a hurry to find a new coach

Charles Baloyi — Sat, 16 Nov 2024 05:46:16 +0000

Currently representing the Nedbank Running Club, Mosiako has returned to his home province of North West, where he trains independently to maintain his fitness.

Preferring a measured approach, he plans to carefully consider his options before making any decisions about joining a new training group or working with a coach next year.

"I am still home training alone, I don't want any trauma anymore in my life. I think I'll just focus on myself at the moment, I don't know up until I get well," Mosiako said.

Mosiako shared with the national broadcaster that he currently prefers training alone after parting ways with coach Mbambani.

The split, stemming from a reported fallout, was highlighted by SABC Sport last month.

"I am training alone, I'm still training alone in Potch. I'm still recovering, in fact, I've recovered 100 percent, I've been working very hard," he added.

READ: Johannesburg City Marathon launches its second edition

Mosiako has remained in isolation following the publicized fallout with Mbambani, which gained widespread attention after SABC Sport reported the story last month.

As a result, he has largely stayed out of the public eye. Recently, however, he joined Elroy Gelant and coach Pio Mpolokeng's training group for a run.

"I have been isolating myself it was not helping me. Now I get to interact with people, and maybe join some groups for my long runs like I did. I think two weeks back or three weeks back, I did my long run with Potch guys, and Elroy's group and this past Sunday I was with coach Pio doing a long run because that group was not there, they were all in Soweto. Being alone was really killing me."

Sanju Samson, Tilak Varma power India to record-breaking T20I win

SABC Sport — Fri, 15 Nov 2024 19:11:41 +0000

Sanju Samson and Tilak Varma dazzled with centuries, helping India post a mammoth 283/1, their highest T20I total overseas.

Batting Masterclass Sets New Records

Openers Samson and Abhishek Sharma laid a solid foundation, racing to 73 runs in the Powerplay, the second-highest in India-South Africa T20Is. Samson and Varma then took charge, putting on a record-breaking unbeaten 201-run partnership, India's highest for any wicket in T20Is.

Samson smashed 109* off 56 balls, hitting six fours and nine sixes, while Varma hammered 120* off 47 balls, including nine fours and ten sixes.

India struck 23 sixes in total, setting a new record for the most by a Full-Member side in a T20I innings.

Samson and Varma Shine with Milestones

Samson became the first player to score three T20I centuries in a calendar year and now trails only Rohit Sharma (5) and Suryakumar Yadav (4) for most T20I tons by an Indian. Meanwhile, Varma joined an elite club, becoming the fifth Indian to score multiple T20I centuries. Both batters also notched their second consecutive hundreds, a rare feat in T20I cricket.

South Africa Collapse Under Pressure

In response, South Africa stumbled to 10/4 inside the Powerplay, with Arshdeep Singh dismantling the top order and finishing with figures of 3/30.

Despite a brief 86-run stand between David Miller (36) and Tristan Stubbs (43), the hosts folded for 148 in 18.2 overs.

Axar Patel and Varun Chakravarthy chipped in with two wickets each, with Chakravarthy ending the series as the highest wicket-taker (12).

India's Dominance in South Africa

This victory solidified India's dominance on South African soil, following series wins in 2018 and 2024.

The team's 283/1 also marked the highest T20 total ever scored in South Africa.

India's performance underscored their firepower and depth, with key players delivering under pressure and rewriting the T20I record books.

Alexander Zverev ousts Carlos Alcaraz to seal ATP Finals semi-final spot

SABC Sport — Fri, 15 Nov 2024 16:11:30 +0000

Heading into the match, the stakes were clear. Zverev, a two-time ATP Finals champion, only needed one set to advance, while Alcaraz faced the uphill task of winning at least a set to keep his slim hopes alive. Even that would depend on the outcome of the subsequent clash between Casper Ruud and Andrey Rublev.

The opening set highlighted Alcaraz's determination but also Zverev's relentless pressure.

The German forced seven break points throughout the set, keeping Alcaraz under constant strain. The Spaniard's resilience shone as he saved six of those chances, including a crucial set point in the twelfth game, pushing the set into a tie-break.

In the tie-break, Zverev initially dominated, building a 5-2 lead with two mini-breaks. Alcaraz fought back to level, but the German capitalised on his experience to edge it 7-5, guaranteeing his spot in the semi-finals.

Visibly frustrated, Alcaraz slammed his racket, reflecting his disappointment.

The second set saw Zverev strike early, breaking in the opening game on his ninth break point of the match. Despite Alcaraz's spirited effort, which included saving two break points and showcasing spectacular defensive play, he could not claw back the deficit.

Zverev held firm, saving two break points of his own and fending off a late push from Alcaraz with some precise serving and aggressive baseline play.

The victory capped a flawless group stage for Zverev, while Alcaraz's exit marked a disappointing end to his campaign. Zverev now looks to maintain his form in the semi-finals, while Alcaraz will aim to regroup as he prepares for the 2025 season.

Bafana Bafana celebrate AFCON qualification with victory in Uganda

SABC Sport — Fri, 15 Nov 2024 15:11:18 +0000

Both goals came in the second half with substitutes Thapelo Morena and Patrick Maswanganyi both scoring from close-range at the Mandela International Stadium, named after South African statesman Nelson Mandela.

Bafana now sit top of the standings with 11 points from five games with Uganda joining them in next year's AFCON with 10 points and one match left to play in the group.

The visitors controlled the first half without ever really threatening the Uganda goal while the hosts looked dangerous with their pacy forwards on the counter-attack.

Bafana coach Hugo Broos opted to bring on Morena early in the after the halftime interval, replacing the in-effective right-wing Elias Mokwana and move paid immediate dividends.

Bathusi Aubaas did well to squeeze and put the Uganda defence under pressure before the ball fell to Morena in the box and Sundowns player calmly slotted into the back of the net.

The visitors almost doubled their advantage when home goalkeeper Ismail Watenga gave the ball away trying to pass into midfield and Iqraam Rayners won it but volleyed his effort just wide.

Bafana doubled their lead and sealed the victory in the 89th minute when Rayners played a delightful chip into the box and the on-rushing Maswanganyi showed a good first touch and finish for his first international goal.

Hugo Broos' charges can seal top spot in the group with a win a against South Sudan with the teams meeting at the DHL Stadium in Cape Town on Tuesday.

Trent Alexander-Arnold and Alphonso Davies, Real Madrid's transfer targets

SABC Sport — Fri, 15 Nov 2024 13:11:14 +0000

The bulk of transfer action at Real Madrid is expected to come in the defensive positions in the next two windows. A new centre-back is being targeted for January following news Eder Militao has suffered a season-ending ACL injury.

Aymeric Laporte (Al-Nassr), Castello Lukeba (RB Leipzig) and Jonathan Tah (Bayer Leverkusen) are all being looked at for January.

But according to the latest from Relevo, superstar additions in both full-back positions are on the cards for the summer.

Firstly, Relevo reaffirm Trent Alexander-Arnold and Alphonso Davies are the club's No 1 targets for the right-back and left-back positions respectively. Both players are in the final year of their contracts at Liverpool and Bayern Munich and can sign pre-contract agreements on January 1.

The report claimed a deal with Davies 'will be resolved at the beginning of 2025,' thus indicating a pre-contract agreement will be forged. That would then lead to the Canadian joining Real Madrid as a free agent in the summer.

Regarding Alexander-Arnold, it's stated Real Madrid are again determined to sign the Reds talisman via free agency. A winter window move has been all but ruled out with Alexander-Arnold hopeful of leaving in the 'best possible way.'

The report clarified that means leaving Liverpool at season's end and hopefully with a second Premier League trophy in the bank.

The report concluded: '[Real Madrid] is planning next season with Alexander-Arnold at the Santiago Bernabeu, but undertaking his signing in the summer.

'In winter, although they do not rule out an attempt to sign him, they see it as practically impossible. The right-back continues to reject offers to renew from Liverpool , but he would like to leave in the best possible way, with titles and not in the middle of the season, which makes his signing for Real Madrid in January very complicated.'

The Athletic's James Pearce recently stressed Liverpool have not given up hope of convincing Alexander-Arnold to pen fresh terms.

Writing in a Q&A, the Reds reporter stated: 'the lure of Real Madrid is clear, but contrary to reports in Spain, Liverpool have not given up hope of keeping their vice-captain beyond this season.'

TEAMtalk's understanding of the situation is Real Madrid have all but conceded a January transfer is impossible. As such, their focus has shifted to signing the 26-year-old via free agency.

From the Reds' perspective, sources tell us Liverpool remain 'calm' about the situation, though are aware Real Madrid can and often do succeed in turning a player's head.

In other news, The Athletic have stressed there is 'no truth' to claims Liverpool are ready to part ways with Federico Chiesa in January.

The often-injured Italian has been linked with a quick-fire return to Serie A, though those suggestions are wide of the mark.

Elsewhere, transfer guru Fabrizio Romano has confirmed Liverpool remain "big fans" of summer target Martin Zubimendi. However, Arne Slot isn't the only manager full of admiration for the player, with Mikel Arteta and Xabi Alonso smitten with the Real Sociedad man too.

"What I want to tell you today is that Liverpool are still monitoring Martin Zubimendi on a constant basis," Romano told his YouTube channel.

"It's also true that there are two managers who are big fans of Zubimendi, apart from we know Liverpool and Arne Slot, what they already did last summer and they remain interested and keep monitoring the player. Mikel Arteta also appreciates Zubimendi and also Xabi Alonso."

The Independent recently claimed Arsenal could look to sign Zubimendi next summer. Amid growing speculation Alonso will succeed Carlo Ancelotti at The Bernabeu, Real Madrid could also emerge as a genuine contender for the midfield maestro next year.

Uganda can learn a lot from Hugo Broos and Bafana Bafana – Paul Put

Velile Mnyandu — Fri, 15 Nov 2024 12:49:57 +0000

The two countries have both qualified for the AFCON in Morocco next year, following South Sudan’s shock 3-2 win over a 10-man Congolese team in Juba yesterday.

The two teams played an entertaining 2-all draw at Orlando stadium in September and Put says Uganda can learn a lot from the work that Broos has done with Bafana in the past three years.

"He's a friend of mine and we respect each other. We played against each other in Belgium. He's made his name in Africa, I think also I've been going through a lot of things in Africa, so we respect each other a lot but the thing is with Hugo, he did a very good job,” Put said.

“He also has the confidence of the football federation of South Africa [SAFA]. He signed the contract of five years so he's been building this team for four years. So, you can imagine that he built a solid team in four years time.

“We hope also that we can do the same thing for Uganda, so in that opinion, we respect each other and we know each other very well."

READ: Hugo Broos continues to break records as Bafana qualify for AFCON 2025 in style

Uganda, who currently top Group K with 10 points, two points ahead of Bafana Bafana (8 points) are returning to the AFCON for the first time since 2019.

In 2017, coach Milutin “Micho” Sredojevic ended a 39-year absence from the continental showpiece, when he qualified the team to the 2017 AFCON in Gabon.

Put says it’s important to wrap up their qualification games in style in front of a sold-out home crowd.

"I think everybody wants to write history and I think that's what is in the mind of the players, from the coaches, everyone. We can see that our supporters and our public are more engaged than at the moment than when I started,” the coach added.

“So, I think they have a good feeling about the team and the team has a very good feeling about the supporters, and like I always said, without our supporters, you cannot win the game.

“We know that we can count on them, if you know that you can count on somebody automatically you can do your very best. So, it's very important to qualify because of the players, they can change their lives, they can change the lives of their families, a lot of things. I know an Africa Cup, I played four but Morocco will be very special."

David Alaba nears Real Madrid return after gruelling recovery

SABC Sport — Fri, 15 Nov 2024 12:11:58 +0000

The Austrian defender, who has endured months of setbacks and uncertainty, is now making significant progress in his rehabilitation, much to the relief of manager Carlo Ancelotti and the club's fans.

"Turn and go back again," a coach was heard instructing Alaba during Wednesday's training session, captured on video. Alaba, navigating cones on the training pitch, has been intensifying his individual work.

Encouragingly, his knee is finally responding positively, allowing him to move closer to rejoining team training. If all goes well, he is expected to return to group sessions in December, giving Ancelotti a major boost ahead of the season's critical phase.

Alaba's road to recovery has been anything but straightforward. Initially expected to be fit for the start of the season, complications arose early in his rehabilitation, leading to a second surgery in May. That setback meant starting the recovery process from scratch, a crushing blow for both Alaba and Real Madrid, whose defensive options have been stretched thin in his absence.

The mental toll of the injury was significant. For months, Alaba worked behind closed doors at Valdebebas, battling frustration and uncertainty.

However, a turning point came recently when his knee began to improve noticeably. "The journey back is worth every step," Alaba shared on social media alongside a photo of himself running on the grass, prompting an outpouring of support from teammates and fans.

Ancelotti also expressed optimism, stating in a press conference, "We have young players stepping up, and Alaba will soon join the squad."

Since suffering the injury in December last year, Alaba has missed 51 matches for Real Madrid, 34 last season and 17 so far this campaign. His return will be vital, but regaining match fitness after such a prolonged absence will not be easy. With the season entering its decisive phase, Ancelotti faces the challenge of reintegrating Alaba without disrupting the team's rhythm in high-stakes fixtures.

Nonetheless, Alaba's imminent comeback is a morale boost for the squad. For Real Madrid, having a player of his calibre back in the heart of their defence will feel like a marquee signing at a crucial time. December could mark the start of Alaba's resurgence and Real Madrid's defensive revival.

Nonkululeko Mlaba's cricket success not surprising to her development coach

Nozibusiso Sibiya — Fri, 15 Nov 2024 11:45:13 +0000

Mlaba made history in the recently concluded ICC T20 Women's World Cup in Dubai when she became the first Proteas Women player to take 10 wickets in a single tournament.

Speaking to SABC Sport Caluza says he is not shocked by this performance.

"I've always believed in Nonkululeko, I wanted her to be successful. There isn’t a coach who doesn't want to see their players shine, we always want our players to be successful. She was a very unique child, she was always curious about the game and always asking questions,” Caluza said.

“She always gave her best in everything that she did, even when she was struggling with whatever I was teaching her, she would do it to the best of her ability. She wasn't afraid to make mistakes.

“One thing we used to fight about was that she didn't want to do anything that involved fitness, which is very important in this game, but now she's really dedicated herself to it."

READ: UWC coach approaching CAF Women's CL clash against AS FAR as a final

The Lindelani Cricket Club was formed under the guidance of former Cricket SA convener of selectors Linda Zondi when the KwaZulu Natal Cricket Union started a development initiative called the Sunfoil Township/Rural Programme which aimed to introduce cricket to rural and township children.

The Ntuzuma-born cricketer was introduced to the sport by her sister.

The township club has also produced the likes of Nondumiso Shangase and Ayanda Hlubi.

Caluza says the spinner’s main goal is to be ranked number one in the world.

"I'm not her former coach, I'm still her current coach, she still comes to Lindelani Cricket Club when she's not on national duty and not with the Dolphins. She always makes an appearance. We still also work together in the Hollywoodbets Dolphins women's cricket club because they are our professional side here in Durban,” he explained.

'Leftie' has worked really hard and we are all very proud of her. Being the first South African woman to take 10 wickets in the World Cup, I can't even put into words how happy I am for her.

“When I spoke to her after the World Cup that was hosted here in SA, she said her main goal is to be the ICC's number-one-ranked bowler in the world, and she said she was going to work hard to get there.

“It looks like she will achieve that. It's still a long journey for her. She's still 24, and if she continues working hard, she will get there and surpass a lot of records. I will be happy to witness that."

Iron sharpens iron and Manie Libbok can prove he has the mettle

Doug Mattushek — Fri, 15 Nov 2024 11:11:27 +0000

A touch over 12 months ago, the Cape Town native was picked at flyhalf for the Boks' Rugby World Cup semifinal against the men in white. Torrential rain and England's staunch kicking game made things difficult for Libbok. Never one to die wondering, Bok boss Rassie Erasmus hooked this playmaker off the stage in just the 31st minute, handing the proverbial reins to seasoned iceman Handre Pollard.

The veteran slotted eight points, including a now-famous match-winning long-range bomb to book the Boks a place in the final.

Fast forward to this Bok season and Libbok was handed the responsibility in Santiago against Argentina, but missed a last-gasp penalty resulting in the Boks going down by a point. Despite the media harping on his kicking woes, Erasmus backed Libbok again the following week in Mbombela.

Free of his placekicking duties thanks to Jaden Hendrikse, Libbok was sublime. He showed the skills that earned him the jersey, holding the ball up brilliantly on attack, playing vital roles in two tries and landing cheeky kicks out of hand in dangerous areas.

Now, the talent has a similar chance at redemption and the safety of Pollard - who played a full 80 minutes last week - on the bench.

"We always like to give players another chance like we did in Mbombela," Erasmus told the press this week.

"We know it wasn't Manie losing a Test match in Santiago and we know as a team we lost that Test match. I've said it many times - a normal pass with three on two is much easier than a kick in front of the poles.

"Again, if he doesn't make it, he knows we are not going to be upset with him.

"We know what his skill set is. If he gets through this like he did in the Argentina Test match, he will be a better player on the other side. If he doesn't, we've got security on the bench with Handre and then we will still work on him."

And with the competition heating up for the Bok flyhalf position, Saturday is a free pass for Libbok to flex his mastery. The man has nothing to lose.

"There is Sacha [Feinberg-Mngomezulu] knocking really hard, Damian [Willemse] and there is even Siya Masuku doing well at the Sharks," said Erasmus of the deep flyhalf talent pool.

"We've also got Jordan [Hendrikse] in camp with us, and we would love to give him an opportunity on tour."

Iron sharpens iron and Libbok can prove he has the mettle with a solid performance on Saturday.

Hugo Broos continues to break records as Bafana qualify for AFCON 2025 in style

Velile Mnyandu — Fri, 15 Nov 2024 10:52:53 +0000

South Sudan’s 3-2 shocking victory at home over a 10-man Congo yesterday, ensured that both South Africa and Uganda qualify for the next AFCON in Morocco next year. Speaking to the media in Kampala last night just a few hours after this result, an excited Broos described how he received the news of this qualification, as the camp went wild after this.

"You know this afternoon when the game started in Congo after half-time, I looked and I saw 3-2. I was hoping but I didn't see any more before I got a message from my assistant coach [Helman Mkhalele] saying 'We have qualified',” Broos said.

“So, for me, it's a little surprise honestly but that shows again that if you are in Africa and you can win games outside [your country] and the two teams who won the games or two games outside [their countries] are qualified.

“Uganda won the game outside, we've won already two games outside so that is the big difference in qualifiers and if you can do that then you have a big chance to be qualified. “Again, as you see every match day there are surprises because it's so difficult to win a game outside in Africa. So, we are very happy for sure and I was extremely happy when I received the messages this afternoon that Congo was beaten."

Bafana last played in two consecutive AFCONS in 2013 and 2015, but they had qualified as hosts in 2013.

Broos won Bafana Bafana its first bronze medal at the AFCON in 24 years, earlier this year in Côte D’Ivoire.

READ: Bafana Bafana winger Elias Mokwana set to leave Esperance

It’s also the first time that Bafana have qualified for a major tournament with two games to spare since the country’s readmission to international football in 1992.

But Broos has still emphasized the importance of still finishing as Group K winners, as they are currently second with two games to go and two points behind Uganda.

"First of all, I want to congratulate my compatriot coach Put [Paul] and Uganda for the qualification for the AFCON for next year. Also, from our side, we are very happy that the qualification is there,” the coach added.

“It's a fantastic year for South African football after the bronze medal at the beginning of the year and now the qualification for the next AFCON. On the other side, does it change something for the game of tomorrow? No, maybe one thing that there will be less stressful than if we still had to win the game tomorrow but on the other side I think we promised ourselves.

“We want to win the game tomorrow, we want to end as first in the group so that means that we have to beat Uganda. So, on that side, it doesn't change that much for us."

Xabi Alonso rumours dismissed as Robert Andrich praises Leverkusen boss

SABC Sport — Fri, 15 Nov 2024 10:11:58 +0000

Reports from Eurosport have suggested that Alonso, who has guided Leverkusen to an impressive start this season, could return to Madrid next summer to take charge of his former team.

However, Andrich emphasised that there is no indication Alonso is already planning his departure.

"We don't have the feeling that Xabi is thinking about leaving Leverkusen," Andrich told Sky Germany. "There are always rumours about players, and when it's a coach, it's even more talked about.

"He gives us the feeling that he is always at the top of his game with our team and still wants to achieve a lot with the club."

Alonso, 42, has transformed Leverkusen into serious title contenders since his arrival, earning plaudits for his tactical approach and man-management. While the speculation surrounding his future continues, Leverkusen fans will take comfort in Andrich's reassurances.

Meanwhile, another Leverkusen star attracting transfer interest is Florian Wirtz. The 21-year-old attacking midfielder has been in fine form and has recently recovered from an infection that briefly sidelined him during Germany's preparations for their UEFA Nations League clash with Bosnia-Herzegovina.

Andrich acknowledged Wirtz's potential for a big move but suggested the timeline for such a transfer remains uncertain.

"Everyone knows how good Flo is, how consistent he is for his age, and how quickly he got back to such a high level after his injury. I'm sure he's ready for the next step.

"Whether he goes next summer or the summer after that... that's written in the stars," Andrich said.

Wirtz joined Germany's training on Thursday after a two-day absence, providing coach Julian Nagelsmann with a boost ahead of Saturday's match in Freiburg. With 22 players fit to train, Germany opted not to replace Angelo Stiller, who withdrew due to a muscular problem.

As rumours swirl, Leverkusen's immediate focus remains on maintaining their strong form under Alonso and keeping key players like Wirtz firing on all cylinders.

New Zealand legend set to call time on Test career following series against England

SABC Sport — Fri, 15 Nov 2024 10:11:00 +0000

The 35-year-old is New Zealand's all-time leading wicket-taker in international cricket across formats, having taken 770 scalps during his 18 years playing for the Black Caps.

Southee's impressive all-round skillsets, durability, and consistency have seen him become the only player in the world to claim more than 300 Test wickets, 200 ODI wickets and 100 T20I wickets.

New Zealand's three-match Test series against starts on 28 November with the final match set to be at Southee's home ground at Seddon Park in Hamilton beginning on 14 December.

He said: "Representing New Zealand was all I ever dreamed of growing up. To play for the BLACKCAPS for 18 years has been the greatest honour and privilege, but the time feels right to now step away from the game that has given so much to me.

"Test cricket holds a special place in my heart, so to be able to play such a big series against the same opponent my Test career began against all those years ago, and on three grounds that are incredibly special to me, seems the perfect way to end my time in the black cap.

"I'll always be so grateful to my family, friends, coaches, our fans and everyone involved in the game who has supported me and my career over the years.

"It's been an amazing ride and I wouldn't change a thing."

New Zealand head coach Gary Stead said SoutheeÃ¢™s record speaks for itself, but it was his impact on winning games for New Zealand that shouldnÃ¢™t be underestimated.

"He's an incredibly tough competitor who gets himself up for big occasions and is rarely injured," Stead said.

"Tim cares deeply about the team, its reputation and performances, and he will be missed within the BLACKCAPS environment.

"He now deserves some time with his family and I'm sure he will reflect very positively in years to come about his impact and achievements in the game."

UWC coach approaching CAF Women's CL clash against AS FAR as a final

Matlhomola Morake — Fri, 15 Nov 2024 09:10:12 +0000

The Capetonians take on hosts AS FAR and a win will enhance their chance of progressing to the last four.

But they will also be hoping results from the other group match between Aigles de la Medina and TP Mazembe to go their way.

As matters stand, AS FAR are on six points, while UWC and TP Mazembe have three each and Medina are on zero. Mbuli knows it’s no longer in their hands.

"Yes, it is the final before we get into even qualifying for the knockout. We have to win before we even talk about the other results of the other game, we must win our game but the most important one will be not to concede because should we concede, it will make our lives more difficult," Mbuli said.

READ: Sundowns Ladies get a lifeline in defence of CAF Women’s Champions League title

Mbuli has urged her charges to convert the many chances they create in matches to get closer to victory.

"If we can convert the half chances that we create because it was a similar problem in the previous game. We created a lot of chances but we couldn't convert. I just hope that the half chances that we create, we'll be able to convert them because should we go to half time with 0-0 score or them leading then we'll be more under pressure,” she added.

“The first one will be not to concede then the second one we have to win then we'll worry about what's happening in the other match."

Both South African teams in the competition are in a spot of bother in terms of progression to the semi-finals, and it appears they could meet in the last four should they qualify.

But for Mbuli, that is far from her mind as UWC and Sundowns Ladies have a huge mountain to climb before thinking of the next round.

"I think that would be nice for South African women's football but for either of us, we still have that one hurdle before we can say we might be with Sundowns. I think they have the most important game in their last group game, just like us,” the coach explained.

“We are playing against a team that is very, very good, technically good, playing at home is an advantage to them but I think we'll be ready then hopefully we win. Then we get a chance to play with our homegirls, Sundowns."

This will be the first meeting between UWC and AS FAR in any competition. All matches kick off simultaneously at 7pm SA Time.

Permutations:

A win for TP Mazembe and loss or draw for UWC, TP Mazembe go through
A win for UWC and loss or draw for TP Mazembe, UWC go through
A draw for both TP Mazembe and UWC, then TP Mazembe go through on head-to-head (they beat UWC in the opening match)
A win for both TP Mazembe and UWC, TP Mazembe go through on head-to-head
A draw for one and loss for the other, the winning team goes through

Victor Osimhen secures Nigeria's 2025 AFCON spot as Galatasaray applaud

SABC Sport — Fri, 15 Nov 2024 08:11:55 +0000

In a tense 2025 AFCON qualifier, Nigeria had trailed Benin after Mohamed Tijani's first-half strike put the hosts ahead.

Despite Nigeria's control of possession and numerous attempts on goal, they struggled to break through Benin's strong defence, creating mounting pressure in the final moments. But Osimhen stepped up just in time.

Rising to meet a well-placed cross from Simon Moses, Osimhen directed a powerful header into the net, equalising the score and sealing the point Nigeria needed to qualify for the tournament in Morocco.

After the match, Galatasaray, known for their historic 2000 UEFA Cup triumph, celebrated Osimhen's heroics on social media, posting on their official X account:

"Congratulations to Victor Osimhen who scored the only goal for Nigeria in the 1-1 draw with Benin in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, securing their qualification from the group stage."

With 11 points in the group, Nigeria's draw guaranteed their place in the AFCON finals, with just one qualifying game against Rwanda remaining.

As the 2013 AFCON champions, Nigeria now look forward to finishing their campaign on a strong note when they face Rwanda at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on 18 November at 18h00.

World Rugby confirms four new law trails for 2025

SABC Sport — Fri, 15 Nov 2024 08:11:39 +0000

A package of law trials aimed at enhancing fan and player experience will be adopted as a global trial across all competitions from 2025 after the World Rugby Council voted in favour of change.

With rugby continuing to increase audience share, broadcast and commercial appeal, four law trials will be adopted for all competitions that start after 1 January, 2025. They are:

- 60-second conversion limit to align with penalties and improve game pace. This will be managed by a shot clock where possible.

- 30-second setup for lineouts will match time for scrums to reduce downtime. This will be managed on-field by the match officials

- Play-on rule in uncontested lineouts when the throw is not straight.

- Scrum-half protection during scrums, rucks, and mauls

Proposals for a global law trial to call a mark inside the 22-metre line at kick off and restarts and for single stop mauls did not receive the required 75 per cent support so will not proceed.

Revised Television Match Official protocol

A revised Television Match Official (TMO) protocol was also approved as a global trial. Under the new protocol, the TMO has additional power to identify clear and obvious infringements in the final attacking passage of play before scoring (knock-on, forward pass and in touch) and in the within the final two phases specifically (offside, maul obstruction and tackle complete). The final passage of play is defined as the passage of play since the last restart (if there has been no turnover in possession), or the passage of play since the last turnover in possession has taken place. This is the protocol currently operational in the Autumn Nations Series.

Global adoption of these new law trials marks a major milestone towards World Rugby's purpose of stimulating global growth via increasing accessibility and relevance among younger fans, ensuring rugby is placed to thrive over the next decade towards US Rugby World Cups.

During respective closed trials in the World Rugby U20 Championship and Trophy, WXV, Pacific Nations Cup, Rugby Championship and Autumn Nations Series, the laws, had a positive impact on the style, flow and entertainment value of the sport, decreasing stoppages, increasing ball in play, and promoting quick ball, while maintaining a contest.

Twenty-minute red card replacement decision deferred

With cross-hemisphere international matches having only just begun, in line with the recommendation, the Council decided to delay consideration of the 20-minute red card trial until the conclusion of the Autumn Nations Series to enable further feedback and full data analysis to be considered.

Leon Goretzka faces uncertain Bayern Munich future

SABC Sport — Fri, 15 Nov 2024 08:11:35 +0000

Despite his role alongside Joshua Kimmich in Saturday's narrow 1-0 victory, reports suggest Bayern remain keen to offload the midfielder.

Goretzka, under contract until 2026, has struggled for regular playing time since Vincent Kompany took over as head coach. With Aleksandar Pavlovic, Joao Palhinha, and Kimmich all preferred options in midfield, the 28-year-old has fallen down the pecking order.

Nevertheless, Goretzka has reportedly resisted leaving, focusing instead on regaining favour within the squad.

Union Berlin manager Horst Heldt expressed his admiration for Goretzka, stating he would welcome the midfielder "with open arms" should a move to the capital materialise.

However, the player has previously been linked with several high-profile clubs, casting doubt over such a transfer.

Meanwhile, Bayern are reportedly preparing to secure Jamal Musiala's long-term future. According to Sport1, the club are willing to match Harry Kane's annual salary of up to $22 million to make Musiala their joint top earner.

Bayern are eager to extend the 20-year-old's contract, potentially until 2030, but the player has indicated that talks will be deferred until the new year.

"My focus right now is on the two DFB games," Musiala said at a recent press conference, adding, "I want to finish the first half of the season well and then we'll see what happens."

In injury news, Joao Palhinha has withdrawn from Portugal's squad for their UEFA Nations League matches due to a groin issue.

Bayern have confirmed that the midfielder, who has been pivotal in recent weeks following Pavlovic's injury, will miss around three weeks of action.

Palhinha's absence adds another challenge to Bayern's congested midfield picture as they navigate a crucial stretch of the season.

Ghana's 2025 AFCON hopes hang on Angola clash

SABC Sport — Fri, 15 Nov 2024 08:11:16 +0000

Head coach Otto Addo has urged his team to secure victory to revive their dwindling hopes of reaching the 2025 tournament.

The four-time African champions have endured a challenging qualification campaign, risking their first AFCON absence in two decades. A rocky start saw the Black Stars fall 1-0 to Niger in their opener at the Baba Yara Stadium, followed by a 1-1 draw with Niger.

Their fortunes didn't improve against Sudan, as they played out a goalless draw in Accra before losing 2-0 in the return leg.

These disappointing results leave Ghana fourth in Group F with just two points, trailing behind Niger, Sudan, and Angola.

However, Niger's emphatic 4-0 win over Sudan on Thursday provided a lifeline. For Ghana to qualify, they must defeat both Angola and Niger while hoping Sudan falter against Angola.

Speaking ahead of the Angola match, Otto Addo expressed confidence in his squad's mental preparedness.

"Mentally, the boys are ready," the 45-year-old said in an interview with the Ghana FA. "I'm looking forward to that game. It's time for our first victory in this competition."

Addo, formerly a talent coach at Borussia Dortmund, highlighted the significance of the match: "I think it's a great opportunity to keep the chance alive."

The must-win fixture was scheduled to kick off at 19:00 GMT, with Ghana needing nothing short of a victory to remain in contention. Fans and players alike braced for a pivotal night in the team's AFCON journey.

Nick Kyrgios confirms tennis comeback after two years on the sideline

SABC Sport — Fri, 15 Nov 2024 08:11:15 +0000

The Australian has struggled with significant injury issues and has not played since June 2023, losing in the opening round of the Stuttgart Open in what proved to be his only match since the end of 2022.

Kyrgios is currently unranked on the ATP Tour though it is now confirmed that he will join a star-studded cast at the ATP 250 event in Brisbane next season, with action beginning on December 29th.

The Australian has had success at the tournament previously, defeating Ryan Harrison in the 2018 final to lift one of his seven ATP Tour singles titles.

"The Brisbane International has always been a great event and I have had some amazing memories there, particularly when I won the event in 2018," Kyrgios said in a statement.

"I am feeling fit and healthy, and I am excited for my return to tennis following some time out of the sport.

"It has been a long journey of recovery to be where I am today, one of the goals I had set was to be able to play during the Aussie summer, so I am excited that I get to start in Brisbane which is one of my favourite tournaments.

"I am looking forward to being back out on court in front of the Aussie crowds."

Kyrgios has a protected ranking of world No 21 that he can use as he looks to return to permanent action in 2025.

The 29-year-old initially suffered an ankle injury though was then forced to withdraw from the 2023 Australian Open due to a knee injury which required surgery.

Kyrgios then suffered a foot injury that ruled him out of the French Open, before sustaining a significant wrist injury that required further surgery and has ruled him out since June 2023.

Since then, he has turned to broadcasting, working for the likes of ESPN, Eurosport, and the BBC, during his hiatus, while briefly appearing at Patrick Mouratoglou's UTS in New York.

"Nick Kyrgios, who will join fellow top-30 Australians, Alexei Popyrin and Jordan Thompson in Brisbane this summer, adds genuine star power as a Grand Slam finalist and the 2018 Brisbane International champion," added tournament director Cam Pearson.

"Nick, who has had success here in the past, will kick off his 2025 comeback in Brisbane and I am excited, as I know all tennis fans will be, to see him back on court showcasing his best tennis and entertaining the crowds in a way that only Nick can."

Kyrgios joins the likes of defending champion Grigor Dimitrov, 2024 finalist Holger Rune, and Gael Monfils in headlining the men's event.

Meanwhile, the WTA 500 event is set to be led by current world No 1 Aryna Sabalenka, alongside the likes of Jessica Pegula and Emma Navarro.

Arsenal eye Ajax star Kenneth Taylor to bolster midfield options

SABC Sport — Fri, 15 Nov 2024 07:11:52 +0000

The Gunners have been linked with a number of midfield players of late. They have seen Martin Odegaard sidelined for a while, and know Thomas Partey might soon leave the club.

As such, Arsenal are on the hunt for a new midfielder to add into the mix, and seem to have found a perfect option in the Netherlands.

According to Caught Offside, they have been scouting Ajax midfielder Taylor all season, and his performances have attracted plenty of interest.

It is not only Mikel Arteta's side who want the 22-year-old, though, as the report also states Newcastle, Aston Villa and Napoli are keeping tabs on him.

It is also believed that Ajax would ask for a fee of £29 million in order to let Taylor go.

Given the positions he has occupied in his career, Taylor could help Arsenal in various areas.

Though he has played the majority of his football as a genuine central midfielder, the Ajax man has played 23 games as a defensive-midfielder, and 14 games as an attacking-midfielder.

As such, if, as this season, Odegaard was to have time on the sidelines, Taylor could be the more attacking member of the Arsenal midfield.

But if Partey is to move on, they know the Dutchman could also do his defensive duties.

Another option for Arsenal's midfield is Hugo Larsson, who TEAMtalk are aware has caught the attention of the Gunners and Liverpool.

A subsequent report states if he is signed, it will have to be for in the region of £70million.

The Gunners are also going to give Manchester United competition for the signing of soon to be free agent Leroy Sane, formerly of Manchester City.

Meanwhile, after reports that Newcastle could try to sign Gabriel Jesus, former Premier League scout Mick Brown has stated the Magpies won't actually feel the Brazilian is the top-level attacker they need, if Alexander Isak is to leave the club.

England make bold changes for showdown with Springboks at Twickenham

SABC Sport — Fri, 15 Nov 2024 07:11:45 +0000

Borthwick's team will be desperate to bounce back after losing to the Wallabies last weekend and the All Blacks the previous Saturday but it is a difficult proposition.

The four changes to the side see Ollie Sleightholme, Jack van Poortvliet, Freddie Steward, and Sam Underhill all come in as England tweak their side for the game.

Immanuel Feyi-Waboso and Tom Curry are ruled out due to injury but Ben Spencer and George Furbank are axed as Borthwick opts for new faces at scrum-half and 15.

Jamie George is captain and once again supported by vice-captains: lock Maro Itoje, back-row Ben Earl, prop Ellis Genge and flyhalf George Ford, who is on the bench.

In the front row, George runs out at hooker with Genge at loosehead prop and Will Stuart at tighthead prop. Itoje is again paired with George Martin in the second row.

The back row features last weekend's two-try star Chandler Cunningham-South and Underhill manning the flanks while Earl will wear the No 8 jersey.

In the half-back spots, Leicester scrumhalf Van Poortvliet starts alongside Marcus Smith while the midfield sees Henry Slade link with Ollie Lawrence once again.

In the back three, Tommy Freeman shifts to the right wing, Sleightholme takes the left slot and Steward is selected at full-back to round off England's starting XV.

Sale Sharks wing Tom Roebuck is included among the replacements for the first time this autumn, alongside Luke Cowan-Dickie, Fin Baxter, Dan Cole, Nick Isiekwe, Alex Dombrandt, Harry Randall and Ford.

"We're excited to challenge ourselves against the world's top-ranked team and back-to-back Rugby World Cup champions," said Borthwick.

"Test matches against South Africa are always thrilling contests, and I'm sure Saturday will be no exception."

England team to face Springboks

England - 15 Freddie Steward, 14 Tommy Freeman, 13 Ollie Lawrence, 12 Henry Slade, 11 Ollie Sleightholme, 10 Marcus Smith, 9 Jack van Poortvliet, 8 Ben Earl, 7 Sam Underhill, 6 Chandler Cunningham-South, 5 George Martin, 4 Maro Itoje, 3 Will Stuart, 2 Jamie George, 1 Ellis Genge

Replacements: 16 Luke Cowan-Dickie, 17 Fin Baxter, 18 Dan Cole, 19 Nick Isiekwe, 20 Alex Dombrandt, 21 Harry Randall, 22 George Ford, 23 Tom Roebuck

UEFA Nations League wrap: Italy and France secure quarter-final spots

SABC Sport — Fri, 15 Nov 2024 07:11:43 +0000

England seized control of their group, and key promotion and relegation battles unfolded across Europe.

Thursdays matches in brief:

Sandro Tonali's strike sends Italy throughBelgium 0-1 ItalyItaly clinched their place in the quarter-finals with a narrow victory over Belgium in Group A2. Sandro Tonali's first international goal in the 11th minute proved decisive, as the midfielder finished off a slick move involving Nicolo Barella and Giovanni Di Lorenzo. Despite Belgium's spirited second-half push, which saw Wout Faes hit the post and Gianluigi Donnarumma pull off crucial saves, they fell short and were eliminated from the competition.

England dominate in AthensGreece 0-3 EnglandEngland stormed to the top of Group B2 with an emphatic win in Athens. Ollie Watkins opened the scoring early, but Jordan Pickford's heroics kept the visitors ahead as Greece pressed. England doubled their lead in the second half when Jude Bellingham's effort ricocheted off the post and the Greek goalkeeper, Odysseas Vlachodimos, for an own goal. Curtis Jones capped the performance with a stylish back-heel finish, securing a crucial head-to-head advantage over Greece.

France held but progress securedFrance 0-0 IsraelFrance advanced to the quarter-finals despite being held to a goalless draw by a resilient Israel side in Saint-Denis. N'Golo Kante and Randal Kolo Muani were both denied by Israel goalkeeper Daniel Peretz, who delivered a stellar performance. Peretz's late save to deny Warren Zaire-Emery ensured Israel claimed their first point in the campaign.

Elsewhere in the Nations League

Kazakhstan 0-2 Austria: Kazakhstan were relegated to League C after Austria's Christoph Baumgartner and Michael Gregoritsch sealed a win with two superb strikes.Republic of Ireland 1-0 Finland: Evan Ferguson's decisive goal in Dublin condemned Finland to the bottom of Group B2.North Macedonia 1-0 Latvia: Nikola Serafimov's strike earned North Macedonia promotion to League B.

Full Results:

Group A2: Belgium 0-1 Italy, France 0-0 IsraelGroup B2: Greece 0-3 England, Republic of Ireland 1-0 FinlandGroup B3: Kazakhstan 0-2 Austria, Slovenia 1-4 NorwayGroup C4: Armenia 0-1 Faroe Islands, North Macedonia 1-0 Latvia

The Nations League continues to deliver high stakes and memorable moments as the competition progresses.

Wily Erasmus predicts England's tactics again as Boks' split-squad plan pays off

SABC Sport — Fri, 15 Nov 2024 07:11:10 +0000

While the wily Springbok coach stopped short of predicting Steve Borthwick's entire England side for Saturday's massive clash at Twickenham, as he did ahead of last year's World Cup semi-final, he did predict that Freddie Steward, who wore the No. 15 jersey in that match, would return to Borthwick's side at fullback. A few hours later, the England coach proved him right.

Erasmus' other prediction in line with that selection was that Borthwick, under pressure following a series of narrow losses, would revert to type and try to squeeze the Springboks with a kicking gameplan, and while we've yet to see if that prediction will come to pass, you wouldn't bet against Erasmus having gotten this one right as well.

The Springbok coach knows Borthwick is feeling under the gun at this point, having been in a similar situation himself.

"You know, when you lose two games, even if it's by a point or last-minute try, the pressure does start to build," he said. "I've been there. I certainly know how quickly it can get to you. And when that happens you normally fall back on what works for you.

"We very much expect them to try to squeeze us with the kicking game."

Erasmus' masterplan was always to use a split-squad approach for the matches against Scotland and England due to the short six-day turnaround between them, and with his gamble having paid off against the Scots, the Boks now have the luxury of a number of fresh forwards and an all-new backline that has spent the last nine days preparing specifically for this match.

The Boks were pushed much harder than many expected by England in the World Cup semi-final and nearly came unstuck at the penultimate hurdle, and it's something they're keen to avoid a second time around.

Erasmus also explained that the more traditional 5-3 split of forwards and backs on the bench was to counteract the gameplan they expect Borthwick's England to employ.

"Last week after those guys helped the team prepare for Scotland, they turned their heads to England and they started analysing them," Erasmus said.

"We need to make sure we can handle their kicking game, which seems to be something that they really fall back on, and their rush defence which will certainly have a heavy toll on our backs. That's why we went with a 5-3 split. And then hopefully our forwards are still fresh because they didn't all play the full 80 minutes."

As for his decision to pick Manie Libbok at flyhalf, ironically, Erasmus said the No 10's poor performance against England in the World Cup semi-final, which saw him replaced after just 32 minutes, factored into it.

"We like to give a guy a second chance, and it was against England, you know, where we had to make the substitution in the 32nd minute," he added.

Teams	M	W	L	D	PTS	NET RR
Ireland	3	1	2	0	0
Pakistan	3	2	1	0	0

Finished Pakistan in Ireland T20I Series