Algerian side USMA, who forfeited both legs of a semi-final in a storm over Moroccan maps on the Berkane shirts, have asked the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) to reverse those decisions.

They also want the first leg of the title decider, scheduled for the 10,000-capacity Stade Municipal in northeastern Morocco, to be postponed.

Separately, Zamalek have requested the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to change the Tunisian VAR officials chosen to handle the first encounter to those from another country.

The shirts drama began two days before the first leg was set to be played on April 21 when Algerian custom officials seized the kit as the map included the Western Sahara.

Morocco have controlled most of that sparsely populated territory, which has phosphate reserves and rich fishing grounds, since 1975.

But Algeria is opposed to Moroccan rule and backs the Polisario Front, which seeks independence for the Western Sahara.

The dispute was partly responsible for Algeria cutting diplomatic ties with Morocco in 2021 over what it called “hostile acts”. Morocco branded the move “completely unjustified”.

CAF ordered the Algerian authorities to return the confiscated kit and when they did not do so, Berkane refused to play and were awarded a 3-0 walkover by the African body.

Algeria argued that the shirts contained a political message that conflicts with the laws of the game and CAF and FIFA regulations.

Morocco countered that shirts including the map had been worn in Nigeria, Mali, South Africa, Congo Brazzaville and Libya en route to the semi-finals, and there had been no objections.

USMA travelled to Morocco for the return match on April 28, but refused to play, reportedly because their opponents’ shirts included the map.

– Walkovers –

This led to another 3-0 walkover for Berkane over USMA, who last season won the Confederation Cup, the African equivalent of the UEFA Europa League, for the first time.

USMA president Kamal Hassina told the AfricaFootUnited website that his club and the Algerian Football Federation (FAF) had lodged an appeal with the Switzerland-based CAS.

“USM was ready to play the first match in Algeria by making all the arrangements. We asked the CAS not to play this final or to postpone it,” said Hassina.

Meanwhile, Zamalek are unhappy with the choice of VAR officials for the first leg because the Berkane coach, Mouin Chaabani, is Tunisian.

The Cairo club say the choice of Tunisian officials is against the CAF principles of equality and impartiality.

Berkane have lifted the Confederation Cup twice after losing the 2019 final to Zamalek on penalties after both clubs won 1-0 at home.

The sole survivor from that Berkane team is captain and centre-back Issoufou Dayo, a Burkina Faso international.

He played a key role in the knockout stage this season, scoring the decisive quarter-final goal 15 minutes into added time against Libyan opponents Abu Salim.

Berkane boast an outstanding home record in the competition, winning 34 matches and drawing six, scoring 88 goals and conceding 17.

Zamalek suffered a blow when injured captain Mahmoud ‘Shikabala’ Abdelrazek was ruled out of the match in Berkane and the return encounter in Cairo on May 19.

The White Knights have a good Confederation Cup record in Morocco, losing only once in four visits, and impressed in Ghana last month when hammering Dreams 3-0 in a semi-final second leg.

By Agencies.

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FULL-TIME!

South Africa snatch the win from Morocco! #MARRSA | #TotalEnergiesAFCON2023 pic.twitter.com/0QqsGfpFVH

— CAF (@CAF_Online) January 30, 2024

Despite being considered favorites at the Ivory Coast tournament, Morocco’s dreams were dashed as they failed to break through South Africa’s stoic defense. The turning point came in the 57th minute when Themba Zwane orchestrated a precise pass to tall striker Makgopa, who calmly slotted the ball past goalkeeper Yassine Bounou. Mokoena later sealed the victory with a spectacular late free kick.

Morocco’s woes were compounded when Sofyan Amrabat received a late red card, leaving them with 10 players. A missed penalty opportunity by Achraf Hakimi further highlighted their struggles. The defeat marks another chapter in Morocco’s quest for a Cup of Nations title, eluding them since 1976.

“We could have maybe settled the game in the first half but, at this level, you get immediately punished for any chance you waste,” Morocco coach Walid Regragui told said after the match. “The penalty hurt us a lot, and surely we didn’t do everything that is required but I take full responsibility.”

Also Read: Ivory Coast Stuns Defending Champs Senegal in AFCON Shootout Drama

South Africa, winners in 1996, showcased resilience and flashes of attacking prowess after enduring hardships in continental competitions. This victory sets the stage for a quarter-final clash with Cape Verde in Yamoussoukro on Saturday.

The first half witnessed South Africa adopting a cautious approach, playing defensively and denying Morocco clear chances. Mokoena’s long-range shot and Percy Tau’s header were notable attempts, while Morocco’s Amine Adli missed a crucial opportunity just before halftime.

Makgopa’s goal prompted South Africa to adopt a more defensive stance, relying on counter-attacks. The decisive second goal came from Mokoena’s exquisite free kick in stoppage time, taking advantage of Amrabat’s red card for a professional foul.

As South Africa prepares to face Cape Verde in the quarterfinals, the narrative shifts from their past struggles to a potential resurgence in the Africa Cup of Nations.

The post South Africa Stuns Morocco with 2-0 Upset in AFCON Last-16 Clash appeared first on KahawaTungu.

FULL-TIME!

An early Morocco lead is matched by a late DR Congo equalizer as both teams share the points. #TotalEnergiesAFCON2023 | #MARRDC pic.twitter.com/V21J632TdY

— CAF (@CAF_Online) January 21, 2024

Right from the start, Morocco showcased their strength, with Achraf Hakimi’s early cross leading to a powerful header by Youssef En-Nesyri, putting pressure on Congo’s goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi-Nzau. Despite a brief delay for a communication issue, Morocco seized the moment from a Hakim Ziyech corner, as Hakimi scored with a well-placed volley, breaking the deadlock.

In the scorching heat, Morocco continued their offensive efforts, particularly through the effective combination of Hakimi and Ziyech on the right side. However, their wastefulness almost backfired when Selim Amallah’s handball resulted in a penalty for Congo. Fortunately for Morocco, Cédric Bakambu missed the spot-kick, hitting the post.

Also Read: Late Bounedjah Header Secures Algeria a Draw Against Burkina Faso in AFCON Thriller

After halftime, Morocco appeared sluggish, and Dylan Batubinsika’s close-range miss could have equalized the score. Eventually, DR Congo capitalized on Morocco’s lackluster performance, with Silas turning home Meschack Elia’s low cross, leveling the score.

Morocco faced a challenging moment with goalkeeper Yassine Bounou making a crucial fingertip save to deny Fiston Mayele. Despite being on the ropes, Morocco secured a draw, possibly influenced by the extreme temperatures.

Their fate remains in their hands as they look ahead to their match against Zambia in matchday three. Meanwhile, DR Congo, still in contention for the knockouts, displayed confidence after an impressive performance against Africa’s top-ranked team.

The post Morocco Secures Draw Against DR Congo in AFCON Group F Clash appeared first on KahawaTungu.

Tanzania faced an uphill battle, especially after Novatus Miroshi received a second caution, reducing them to 10 players. The match showcased Morocco’s dominance, mirroring Senegal’s earlier three-goal triumph over the Gambia.

Saiss showcased quick reflexes in the 80th minute, securing his third goal in 80 caps. Ounahi then displayed skillful play, combining with Amine Adli for Morocco’s second. En-Nesyri initially had a goal ruled offside but, after VAR review, it was reinstated, sealing Morocco’s victory.

Also Read: Salah’s Last-Minute Heroics Secure Egypt’s Draw Against Mozambique in AFCON Thriller

Morocco’s coach, Walid Regragui, commended the team’s composure in challenging conditions, emphasizing their patience and solid performance. The victory mirrored Morocco’s recent achievements, including reaching the World Cup semifinals in Qatar and defeating Brazil in a friendly.

Despite the heat and humidity, Morocco’s regular lineup, instrumental in their historic World Cup run in 2022, delivered a commendable performance. On the other hand, Tanzania featured two non-league players from England, including Tarryn Allarakhia from Wealdstone, who was substituted after 38 minutes due to exhaustion.

In the other Group F match, the Democratic Republic of Congo faced off against Zambia in San Pedro later on Wednesday. The results highlight Morocco and Senegal as the top contenders in the tournament, setting the stage for an exciting competition in the Ivory Coast.

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The Human Rights Council @un_hrc has just elected Ambassador Omar Zniber, Permanent Representative of #Morocco to @UNGeneva, to serve as its 2024 President.

The results of the secret ballot:

Ambassador Zniber, Morocco 30 votes
Ambassador Nkosi, South Africa 17 votes pic.twitter.com/Y7493GazTF

— United Nations Geneva (@UNGeneva) January 10, 2024

This outcome was not without its share of controversy, as South Africa, opposing Morocco’s candidacy, raised concerns about Rabat’s human rights record.

Despite objections from South African Ambassador Mxolisi Nkosi, who argued that Morocco was fundamentally at odds with the values of the council, Zniber emphasized the importance of the council’s work in promoting universal respect for human rights. Africa’s opportunity to assume the council’s presidency was marked by a lack of consensus among the continent’s 13 member nations, leading to a secret ballot.

Post-election, Zniber underscored the significance of the international community’s support, viewing it as an endorsement of Morocco’s constructive approach and unifying leadership on critical issues such as inter-religious dialogue, tolerance, racial hatred prevention, environmental sustainability, migrants’ rights, and the impact of new technologies.

Also Read: House Republicans Shocked as Hunter Biden Arrives at House Contempt Hearing

The pre-vote tension between Morocco and South Africa was fueled by the ongoing dispute over Western Sahara, where Morocco asserts sovereignty, facing opposition from the Algeria-backed Polisario Front advocating for independence. Morocco has consistently denied allegations of human rights abuses in the region, despite criticism from Moroccan and international non-governmental organizations (NGOs).

Accusations against Morocco include the use of Pegasus spyware to hack the phones of journalists, activists, and politicians, both domestic and foreign. While authorities dismiss these claims as “unjust and fantasist,” NGOs highlight concerns about the alleged discrimination against women and minorities.

The Morocco Ministry of Foreign Affairs accused South Africa and other African states of undermining its candidacy, emphasizing the global trust and credibility in Morocco’s external actions. The presidency of the UN Human Rights Council, established in 2006, rotates annually among the five regional groupings, with the president responsible for overseeing council meetings and appointing independent experts to investigate alleged human rights abuses worldwide.

The post Morocco Secures Leadership of UN Human Rights Council Amid Controversy appeared first on KahawaTungu.

The final is set for 29 May 2022, but to-date, CAF, the continental football body is yet to pick a venue. However, according to sources at CAF, Morocco are favoured as the hosts.

Ahly won a record 10th Champions League title last year in the Morocco’s capital Casablanca after thumping South Africa’s Kaizer Chiefs 3-0.

With a possibility of Ahly meeting Moroccan giants Wydad AC in this year’s final, the Egyptians want a “neutral” ground, and have informed CAF in a writing, through the federation, according to a close source.

Read: Gor Mahia Vs Al Ahly: Match Cancelled After The Sudanese Team Failed To Show Up

The Cairo giants feel that Morocco staging the final would amount to extending undue advantage to Wydad should they make the final.

Ahly are also unhappy that CAF is taking too long to announce the host city. Several countries had expressed interest in hosting the final including South Africa.

Al Ahly will face ES Sétifienne of Algeria in an all North African derby, while Atlético Petróleos de Luanda of Angola will take on Wydad in the semis.

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The e-Conomy Africa 2020 report shows that Africa has about 690,000 devlopers with 50 percent of the professionals concentrated in South Africa, Kenya, Morocco, Nigeria and Egypt.

The report shows that 60,000 of the total number of developers are in Kenya, coming in after Nigeria which has 85,000 developers accounting for 12 percent of the continent’s total. South Africa leads the continent about 120,000 developers

Read: Internet Economy to Contribute Sh786 Billion to Kenya’s GDP in 2020

In comparison to the West, a large percentage of the start-ups in Africa are at the seed-stage. Most of these are located in South Africa, Egypt, Nigeria and Kenya.

African start-ups have benefited from about $350 million (Sh39 billion) worth of funding towards innovations in the sector in Q1 2020. A study by Briter bridge breaks down the funding per country: South Africa ($112 million), Nigeria ($74 million), Kenya ($62 million), and Egypt ($51 million) leading the way as the top funding destinations.

The report further shows that an average developer in South Africa earns about Sh170,000 while their counterparts in Kenya earn about Sh120,000. However, Kenya and Nigeria seem to offer more job opportunities for the developers.

Read also: Nairobi Leading in Online Food Delivery in Africa

Interestingly, self-taught developers account for 31 percent of the total and University trained account for 33 percent.

“Combined, online schools and boot-camps which continue to grow, produce 21 per cent of developers. On-the-job training makes up the fifth pathway with 16 per cent; some employers fill open software development roles with developers who have been trained and are already proficient on their preferred platforms,” the report said

Developers in Kenya are also shown to be more interested in and grow from boot camps and online learning. 30 percent of the developers in the country are self taught, 20 percent learn on the job and nine percent can attribute their knowledge to bootcamps and online classes.

Read also: Connectivity a Bedrock for Riding the Fourth Industrial Revolution Wave

Most Universities and colleges in Kenya are also reported to be teaching C++ despite a bigger demand for Java and Scala.

The report shows that at least 88 percent of Kenyan developers are below 34 years, with a third of them aged between 18-24 learning their craft in University.

43 percent of Kenyan developers are aged between 18-24 years while the older generation aged 34 and above account for 45 percent.

Read also: Facebook to Open Second African Office in Lagos, Nigeria

Interestingly, Egypt has about 85,000 developers and more than 50 percent are below 24 years old.

The report, which was released last week shows that Africa’s internet economy has the potential to hit $180 billion (Sh19.6 trillion) by 2025.

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The Casablanca-based club has organised an imaginary match against COVID-19 and will offer 60,000 online tickets for fans to buy.

They expect to raise Kshs 18 million with each ticket costing around Kshs 300.

Wydad is one of the biggest and most successful clubs in Morocco with estimated 18 million fans in the country alone.

The tickets are expected to quickly runout once put on sale.

Morocco is one of the hard hit African countries with 1,120 confirmed COVID-19 cases and 80 deaths.

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Soldier Eric Mutoro showed the North African team who was the boss as he scored 29points to confirm the teams spot in the finals.

Read: Kenya Basketball Team “The Morans” Make Courtesy Call To Raila Odinga

So far Kenya has had a phenomenal performance and in the championship.

Sports CS Amina Mohamed congratulated the team and promised to support basketball going forward.

The Morans await the outcome between Angola and DRC Congo to know who they face in the final.

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Elba married his model girlfriend Sabrina Dhowre on Friday during a three-day ceremony in Morocco.

The two exchanged nuptials at Ksar Char Bagh hotel in Marrakesh but the festivities are said to have started a day before and will run till Saturday.

Dhowre wore a custom Vera Wang off-the-shoulder, A-line gown for the ceremony.

The actor, deejay and rapper wore a suit from British designer Ozwald Boateng.

The happy couple got engaged in February 2018.

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