Africa Cup of Nations

Uganda's national football team, the Cranes, concluded a challenging period marked by an early exit from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and a failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. These results have brought renewed focus on underlying structural issues within Ugandan football.

As the Betway Premiership marks its 30th season, Mamelodi Sundowns reaffirmed their continental prowess with a CAF Champions League title, while Orlando Pirates ended their domestic dominance to claim a historic treble.

Hugo Broos has officially concluded his five-year tenure as head coach of the South African national football team, Bafana Bafana, following the expiration of his contract. His departure initiates a crucial search for a new leader ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

Pitso Mosimane has officially applied for the vacant Bafana Bafana head coach position, with the South African Football Association expected to announce its decision in early August 2026.

Kwanele Kopo has publicly backed Pitso Mosimane to take over as Bafana Bafana head coach, advocating for continuity following Hugo Broos's departure after the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Mosimane has officially applied for the position and is considered a frontrunner.

The South African Football Association is set to announce the new Bafana Bafana head coach on August 8, following Hugo Broos's successful five-year tenure. Four prominent names are in contention for the role, with immediate focus on the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi will miss the opening two matches of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers due to a CAF suspension, presenting an early challenge for the Atlas Lions.

Former Harambee Stars captain Dennis Oliech has lauded the efforts of both Nick Mwendwa and Hussein Mohammed in advancing Kenyan football, particularly in national team management. He also highlighted critical areas requiring further investment for sustained growth.

Football's governing bodies have introduced significant rule changes for the upcoming 2026/27 season, aiming to enhance match flow, reduce time-wasting, and improve player conduct globally.

Czechia and South Africa secured their first points of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, playing out a 1-1 draw in Atlanta. The result leaves both nations with a chance to advance from Group A ahead of their final group stage fixtures.

Germany secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over Ivory Coast in their 2026 FIFA World Cup Group E match, with substitute Deniz Undav scoring both goals, including a 94th-minute winner. This result propels Germany into the knockout rounds and places them atop Group E.

Leeds United is reportedly moving swiftly to finalize the signing of Sporting CP's highly-rated Ivorian center-back, Ousmane Diomande, in a deal that could break the club's transfer record. The 22-year-old defender is a key target as Leeds aims to bolster its defensive capabilities.