East Asia Wrap: Daegu held; Shanghai Port stay perfect
https://www.the-afc.com/en/more/domesti ... ay-perfect
ASEAN Wrap: Ezra FC seal title; Lion City Sailors on fire
https://www.the-afc.com/en/more/domesti ... rs-on-fire
Central & South Asia Wrap: Battle on for ISL playoffs; joy for Abdysh-Ata
https://www.the-afc.com/en/more/domesti ... abdysh-ata
West Asia Wrap: Al Ittihad, Al Hilal drop points; thrilling race continues in Qatar
https://www.the-afc.com/en/more/domesti ... s-in-qatar
Leagues from other continents
https://www.cafonline.com/news/african- ... in-zambia/
African club round-up: Dynamos power to the top in Zambia
Published: Tuesday, 04 March 2025
African football is alive every weekend with exciting league action around the continent and our weekly round-up of league action highlights a selection of the most important results.
ZAMBIA
Power Dynamos moved ahead of ZESCO United on goal difference at the head of the Super League standings following a 3-1 victory at Kabwe Warriors on Saturday.
Dynamos have 48 points from 26 games with Warriors third place with 44 points, while Nkana FC and Red Arrows both have 43 and are also still in what is shaping up to be a dramatic conclusion to the season with eight rounds of fixtures to play. Chifundo Mphatsi netted a brace for Dynamos and Austin Muwowo scored a penalty in Dynamos’ victory at Kabwe, taking advantage of ZESCO’s goalless home draw to relegation-threatened Forest Rangers. Nkana were 1-0 winners over fellow Copperbelt side Mufulira Wanderers in Kitwe on Sunday as Congolese forward Idris Mbombo netted the only goal of the game. They caught up to Red Arrows, who were held to a 0-0 draw by Nkwazi in Lusaka as they dropped two more points. Sunday’s match between Lumwana Radiants and Green Buffaloes in Lumwana was postponed to Monday at 10h00 due to bad weather. A 2-0 victory for Lumwana Radiants ensured they moved out of the relegation zone.
ALGERIA
A 2-1 home victory on Friday restored Mouloudia Alger’s five point lead at the top of Ligue 1 as they came from behind to beat CS Constantine 2-1 at the Stade 5 Julliet and advance to 37 points from 18 games. The visitors shocked by taking a fourth minute lead through Mounder Temine but MCA were quickly level when Ivorian import Kipre Zunon equalised with a shot from the edge of the box. But it was not until some 15 minutes from time that the leaders made sure of the win as Guinea international Mohamed Bangoura came on for his debut and slammed home a thunderbolt. Chabab Belouizdad had cut MCA’s lead to two points last Wednesday when they won 2-0 at home over bottom placed US Biskra in Algiers, scoring both goals in the last 30 minutes despite being down to 10 men after Jacques Mbe was sent off. Both MCA and Belouizdad go away for their next league fixture on Thursday against Mouloudia Oran and El Bayadh respectively. USM Alger’s defeat at El Bayadh on Thursday allowed JS Kabylie to join them on 29 points in joint third position. Kabylie were 2-1 winners over Paradou at home in Tizi Ouzou on Friday.
GUINEA
Ibrahima Sory Camara stole possession on the edge of the box to score a solo goal and ensure Hafia went back to a three point advantage at the summit of Ligue 1, ending Horoya’s unbeaten run in their top of the table clash. Hafia had been surprise home losers in their previous match at home to Guinee Foot Elite which allowed Horoya join them at the head of the log on 16 points. But Saturday’s success in Yorokoguia pushed Hafia onto 19 while Horoya stayed second. Anglogold Ashanti Golden Boys could have moved into second spot on Sunday but lost 2-1 at home in Kankan to Wakriya, for whom Mohamed Lamine Bangoura and Youssouf Camara were scorers. Amadou Diallo had given Ashanti the lead at half-time.
UGANDA
Vipers’ 1-0 victory over Mbarara City in Kitende on Sunday put them three points clear at the top of the Premier League and proved a fitting memorial for their Nigerian player Abubaker Lawal, who died last month. Allan Okello scored the only goal of the game from the penalty spot as Vipers players wore black armbands to remember their teammate. Vipers advanced to 43 points from 18 matches, pushing ahead of second placed National Enterprise Corporation who had won 2-0 at home over Lugazi in Kampala on Saturday. BUL Jinja are third but 11 points adrift of NEC despite their 2-0 away win over Bright Stars in Wakiso on Saturday. Champions SC Villa lost at Ugandan Peoples Defence Forces in Bombo on Saturday and are in eighth place in the standings.
ESWATINI
Royal Leopard were 2-1 away winners at Illovo in Mayaluka on Saturday to join Green Mamba at the top of the Premier League. They are now on 39 points from 17 games, catching up to Green Mamba, who were held to a goalless draw by Ezulwini United in Siteki at the same time. Third in the league are Nsingizini Hotspurs who drew 0-0 in Manzini on Sunday against Moneni Pirates. Hotspurs are third on 36 points.
African club round-up: Dynamos power to the top in Zambia
Published: Tuesday, 04 March 2025
African football is alive every weekend with exciting league action around the continent and our weekly round-up of league action highlights a selection of the most important results.
ZAMBIA
Power Dynamos moved ahead of ZESCO United on goal difference at the head of the Super League standings following a 3-1 victory at Kabwe Warriors on Saturday.
Dynamos have 48 points from 26 games with Warriors third place with 44 points, while Nkana FC and Red Arrows both have 43 and are also still in what is shaping up to be a dramatic conclusion to the season with eight rounds of fixtures to play. Chifundo Mphatsi netted a brace for Dynamos and Austin Muwowo scored a penalty in Dynamos’ victory at Kabwe, taking advantage of ZESCO’s goalless home draw to relegation-threatened Forest Rangers. Nkana were 1-0 winners over fellow Copperbelt side Mufulira Wanderers in Kitwe on Sunday as Congolese forward Idris Mbombo netted the only goal of the game. They caught up to Red Arrows, who were held to a 0-0 draw by Nkwazi in Lusaka as they dropped two more points. Sunday’s match between Lumwana Radiants and Green Buffaloes in Lumwana was postponed to Monday at 10h00 due to bad weather. A 2-0 victory for Lumwana Radiants ensured they moved out of the relegation zone.
ALGERIA
A 2-1 home victory on Friday restored Mouloudia Alger’s five point lead at the top of Ligue 1 as they came from behind to beat CS Constantine 2-1 at the Stade 5 Julliet and advance to 37 points from 18 games. The visitors shocked by taking a fourth minute lead through Mounder Temine but MCA were quickly level when Ivorian import Kipre Zunon equalised with a shot from the edge of the box. But it was not until some 15 minutes from time that the leaders made sure of the win as Guinea international Mohamed Bangoura came on for his debut and slammed home a thunderbolt. Chabab Belouizdad had cut MCA’s lead to two points last Wednesday when they won 2-0 at home over bottom placed US Biskra in Algiers, scoring both goals in the last 30 minutes despite being down to 10 men after Jacques Mbe was sent off. Both MCA and Belouizdad go away for their next league fixture on Thursday against Mouloudia Oran and El Bayadh respectively. USM Alger’s defeat at El Bayadh on Thursday allowed JS Kabylie to join them on 29 points in joint third position. Kabylie were 2-1 winners over Paradou at home in Tizi Ouzou on Friday.
GUINEA
Ibrahima Sory Camara stole possession on the edge of the box to score a solo goal and ensure Hafia went back to a three point advantage at the summit of Ligue 1, ending Horoya’s unbeaten run in their top of the table clash. Hafia had been surprise home losers in their previous match at home to Guinee Foot Elite which allowed Horoya join them at the head of the log on 16 points. But Saturday’s success in Yorokoguia pushed Hafia onto 19 while Horoya stayed second. Anglogold Ashanti Golden Boys could have moved into second spot on Sunday but lost 2-1 at home in Kankan to Wakriya, for whom Mohamed Lamine Bangoura and Youssouf Camara were scorers. Amadou Diallo had given Ashanti the lead at half-time.
UGANDA
Vipers’ 1-0 victory over Mbarara City in Kitende on Sunday put them three points clear at the top of the Premier League and proved a fitting memorial for their Nigerian player Abubaker Lawal, who died last month. Allan Okello scored the only goal of the game from the penalty spot as Vipers players wore black armbands to remember their teammate. Vipers advanced to 43 points from 18 matches, pushing ahead of second placed National Enterprise Corporation who had won 2-0 at home over Lugazi in Kampala on Saturday. BUL Jinja are third but 11 points adrift of NEC despite their 2-0 away win over Bright Stars in Wakiso on Saturday. Champions SC Villa lost at Ugandan Peoples Defence Forces in Bombo on Saturday and are in eighth place in the standings.
ESWATINI
Royal Leopard were 2-1 away winners at Illovo in Mayaluka on Saturday to join Green Mamba at the top of the Premier League. They are now on 39 points from 17 games, catching up to Green Mamba, who were held to a goalless draw by Ezulwini United in Siteki at the same time. Third in the league are Nsingizini Hotspurs who drew 0-0 in Manzini on Sunday against Moneni Pirates. Hotspurs are third on 36 points.
East Asia Wrap: Kashima go top; Daejeon, Ulsan maintain pace
https://www.the-afc.com/en/more/domesti ... ntain-pace
ASEAN Wrap: Nam Dinh halted; Phnom Penh close gap on leaders
https://www.the-afc.com/en/more/domesti ... on-leaders
Central & South Asia Wrap: NorthEast qualify for ISL playoffs; Iran Pro League remains tight
https://www.the-afc.com/en/more/domesti ... ns-tight-1
West Asia Wrap: Al Ittihad's lead reduced; Al Duhail stay ahead
https://www.the-afc.com/en/more/domesti ... stay-ahead
https://www.the-afc.com/en/more/domesti ... ntain-pace
ASEAN Wrap: Nam Dinh halted; Phnom Penh close gap on leaders
https://www.the-afc.com/en/more/domesti ... on-leaders
Central & South Asia Wrap: NorthEast qualify for ISL playoffs; Iran Pro League remains tight
https://www.the-afc.com/en/more/domesti ... ns-tight-1
West Asia Wrap: Al Ittihad's lead reduced; Al Duhail stay ahead
https://www.the-afc.com/en/more/domesti ... stay-ahead
https://www.cafonline.com/news/african- ... -in-ghana/
African club round-up: Tight at the top in Ghana, Esperance held in Tunisia
Published: Monday, 10 March 2025
African football is alive every weekend with exciting league action around the continent and our weekly round-up of league action highlights a selection of the most important results.
GHANA
The Premier League resumed on the weekend after a one month break and it could not be any closer at the top of the table with Asante Kotoko ahead of Bibiani Gold Stars on goals scored. Both clubs have 37 points from 20 games and a +10 goal-difference but Kotoko have scored more than Stars – 23 compared to 20. Both were winners on Sunday with Kotoko beating second-from-bottom Legon Cities 2-0 at home and Stars 1-0 victors over fifth placed Nations in Bibiani at the same time. Fullback Patrick Asiedu put Kotoko ahead in Kumasi and a late penalty from Kwame Opoku sealed their success. Michael Nkoah headed home from a corner after 69 minutes for Stars’ winner. Third in the standings are former African champions Hearts of Oak, only one point behind the leaders, after Saturday’s 2-0 home win over Young Apostles in Accra. There was a goal in each half from Michael Awuah and Hamza Issah to ensure the points for Hearts. Ghana’s league was halted after the shock killing of a Asante Kotoko supporter led to a security review of all venues used by top flight clubs.
TUNISIA
Champions Esperance were held to a surprise draw at home by Ben Guerdane on Saturday to see their four point lead cut by half with Monastir jumping up into second place in Ligue 1 after success on Sunday against Olympique Beja. Esperance and Monastir finished first and second last season and are again in pole position for slots in next season’s Total Energies CAF Champions League after Etoile Sahel slipped to third. Esperance were handed a last gasp penalty, converted by Algerian import Youcef Belaili to draw 1-1 with relegation-threatened Ben Guerdane, who had gone ahead after 14 minutes through Iyed Belwafi. Top scorer Hazem Mastouri scored his 14th goal of the league season as Monastir won 1-0 at home. Etoile Sahel were surprise losers to Zarzis in Sousse on Sunday as Seifeddine Sabeur netted the game’s only goal just before halftime. Etoile stayed on 48 points with Monastir up to 50 and Esperance leading on 52. At the bottom Tataouine picked up a home point as they held CS Sfaxien to a goalless draw on Saturday and moved up alongside EGS Gafsa, whose two-match winning streak ended with a 2-1 loss at Stade Tunisien on Sunday.
SEYCHELLES
With two rounds to play in the Premier League, the title aspirations of three clubs remain alive with Anse Reunion (35 points), Cote d’Or (34) and Light Stars (30) all chasing the championship. The trio all drew at the weekend with leaders Anse Reunion scoring two minutes from time to force a 1-1 draw at Real Maldive at Stade Linite on Friday. There was even more dramatic escape for Cote d’Or in their 3-3 home draw on Friday at Amitie Stadium as they netted their equaliser seven minutes into stoppage time at the end of the game. Light Stars played out a 2-2 draw with St Louis at Amitie Stadium on Saturday.
ANGOLA
Victory for Petro Atletico saw the GiraBola champions extend their lead to five points after second placed Wiliete were held to a draw at the weekend. Petro won 3-1 over struggling Luanda City on Sunday, one day after Wiliete were held 1-1 by Bravos do Maquis in Luena. Petro, who had to come back from a half-time deficit, advanced to 50 points with 10 matches left to compete the season. Primeiro Agosto are third on 38 points after a goalless draw with Academica Lobito in Luanda on Sunday.
EQUATORIAL GUINEA
Malabo United lead the Insular Region section of the Primera Division while Desportivo Mongomo are top of the Continental Region section with the top three teams in each section meeting in the end of the season title-deciding playoffs. Malabo United have a two-point advantage over Cano Sport Academy while Mongomo are one point ahead of 15 de Agosto.
African club round-up: Tight at the top in Ghana, Esperance held in Tunisia
Published: Monday, 10 March 2025
African football is alive every weekend with exciting league action around the continent and our weekly round-up of league action highlights a selection of the most important results.
GHANA
The Premier League resumed on the weekend after a one month break and it could not be any closer at the top of the table with Asante Kotoko ahead of Bibiani Gold Stars on goals scored. Both clubs have 37 points from 20 games and a +10 goal-difference but Kotoko have scored more than Stars – 23 compared to 20. Both were winners on Sunday with Kotoko beating second-from-bottom Legon Cities 2-0 at home and Stars 1-0 victors over fifth placed Nations in Bibiani at the same time. Fullback Patrick Asiedu put Kotoko ahead in Kumasi and a late penalty from Kwame Opoku sealed their success. Michael Nkoah headed home from a corner after 69 minutes for Stars’ winner. Third in the standings are former African champions Hearts of Oak, only one point behind the leaders, after Saturday’s 2-0 home win over Young Apostles in Accra. There was a goal in each half from Michael Awuah and Hamza Issah to ensure the points for Hearts. Ghana’s league was halted after the shock killing of a Asante Kotoko supporter led to a security review of all venues used by top flight clubs.
TUNISIA
Champions Esperance were held to a surprise draw at home by Ben Guerdane on Saturday to see their four point lead cut by half with Monastir jumping up into second place in Ligue 1 after success on Sunday against Olympique Beja. Esperance and Monastir finished first and second last season and are again in pole position for slots in next season’s Total Energies CAF Champions League after Etoile Sahel slipped to third. Esperance were handed a last gasp penalty, converted by Algerian import Youcef Belaili to draw 1-1 with relegation-threatened Ben Guerdane, who had gone ahead after 14 minutes through Iyed Belwafi. Top scorer Hazem Mastouri scored his 14th goal of the league season as Monastir won 1-0 at home. Etoile Sahel were surprise losers to Zarzis in Sousse on Sunday as Seifeddine Sabeur netted the game’s only goal just before halftime. Etoile stayed on 48 points with Monastir up to 50 and Esperance leading on 52. At the bottom Tataouine picked up a home point as they held CS Sfaxien to a goalless draw on Saturday and moved up alongside EGS Gafsa, whose two-match winning streak ended with a 2-1 loss at Stade Tunisien on Sunday.
SEYCHELLES
With two rounds to play in the Premier League, the title aspirations of three clubs remain alive with Anse Reunion (35 points), Cote d’Or (34) and Light Stars (30) all chasing the championship. The trio all drew at the weekend with leaders Anse Reunion scoring two minutes from time to force a 1-1 draw at Real Maldive at Stade Linite on Friday. There was even more dramatic escape for Cote d’Or in their 3-3 home draw on Friday at Amitie Stadium as they netted their equaliser seven minutes into stoppage time at the end of the game. Light Stars played out a 2-2 draw with St Louis at Amitie Stadium on Saturday.
ANGOLA
Victory for Petro Atletico saw the GiraBola champions extend their lead to five points after second placed Wiliete were held to a draw at the weekend. Petro won 3-1 over struggling Luanda City on Sunday, one day after Wiliete were held 1-1 by Bravos do Maquis in Luena. Petro, who had to come back from a half-time deficit, advanced to 50 points with 10 matches left to compete the season. Primeiro Agosto are third on 38 points after a goalless draw with Academica Lobito in Luanda on Sunday.
EQUATORIAL GUINEA
Malabo United lead the Insular Region section of the Primera Division while Desportivo Mongomo are top of the Continental Region section with the top three teams in each section meeting in the end of the season title-deciding playoffs. Malabo United have a two-point advantage over Cano Sport Academy while Mongomo are one point ahead of 15 de Agosto.
https://www.panafricafootball.com/post/ ... er-red-seaamenina wrote: Fri Jan 10, 2025 01:29 There is actually news from the Eritrea league! It is one of the most secretive leagues in the world together with DPR Korea.
https://www.panafricafootball.com/post/ ... the-summit
Omna Taddele
Dec 13, 2024
Eritrea Super Division A: Red Sea FC at the summit
Week three of Eritrea's Super Division A kicked off on Wednesday in the capital Asmara as Red Sea FC beat Al Tahrir 2-0. The reigning champions faced a strong opposition but two second half goals did the job for them at the Asmara Stadium.
Al Tahrir competed well in the first half and squandered some big chances. Local giants Red Sea came out strong in the second half and were rewarded after the resumption as Saleh Seud and Yonatan Netsereba netted the crucial goals.
In other game, a lone goal from Seme Tekai in the second minute handed Denden FC a vital win over Paradizo. Red Sea leads the log table with maximum points from three games. Denden FC are second with seven points.
Jan 23, 2025
Eritrea Super Division: Denden register big win over Red Sea
Week six of the 2024/25 Eritrea Super Division pitted the nation's top two teams as Denden FC pipped record champions Red Sea FC 1-0 in Asmara.
In the top of the table clash Red Sea missed some of their key players and were beaten for the first time this season. Nahom Tadesse’s last gasp strike was the difference between the two sides.
After the win Denden coach Samsom Habtemariam told Haddas Eritrea that the work is not done yet. “It was an evenly matched game that we won in the stoppage time. Even though our difference is five points, we still have work to do.”
Red Sea coach Ermias Tewelde for his part labeled Denden the luckier team of the encounter. “The defeat can be taken as luck. This result will not scare us rather it is a wakeup call. We have a long way to go in this competition. We will work hard to defend our title.”
Denden, who have won all of their six games, lead the log table with 18 points. Holders Red Sea are second with 13 points.
Elsewhere Air Force and Mai Temenay played out a goalless draw. Sembel Company beat Asmara Brewery 1-0 courtesy goal from Natnael Tesfamariam as they sit third with 10 points. Air Force are fourth in the standings.
Feb 13, 2025
Eritrea Super Division: Denden maintains winning form as Red Sea beat Asmara Brewery
Week 8 in the Eritrean Super Division was played this week as leaders Denden and Red Sea each took all three points. Denden maintained their unbeaten as they came out to defend their 2024 league crown.
The reigning champions needed to dig deep to pip Godayef 1-0. Nahom Awet struck the only goal of the match in the 81st minute to hand Denden a much deserved win.
Red Sea FC faced bitter rivals Asmara Brewery and won 3-1. The game gained much attention after Red Sea signed Asmara Brewery striker Abel Woldeyohannes and playmaker Mikael Habte in January.
Red Sea took the lead through Abel Teklezegi but the beer producers equalized before half time when Hanibal Miakel struck a goal. Red Sea scored twice after the 87th minute through Semon Asmelash’s brace to notch a victory.
Denden are top of the standings with 24 points, five points ahead of second placed Red Sea.
Results
Adulis 3-2 Sembel
Air Force 0-2 Al Tahrir
Mai Temenay 2-0 Paradizo
Godayef 0-1 Denden
Asmara Brewery 1-3 Red Sea
League Table (Top-5)
Points
Denden
24
Red Sea FC
19
Godayef
10
Sembel
10
Air Force
10
Eritrea Super Division: Denden maintains winning form as Red Sea beat Asmara Brewery
Week 8 in the Eritrean Super Division was played this week as leaders Denden and Red Sea each took all three points. Denden maintained their unbeaten as they came out to defend their 2024 league crown.
The reigning champions needed to dig deep to pip Godayef 1-0. Nahom Awet struck the only goal of the match in the 81st minute to hand Denden a much deserved win.
Red Sea FC faced bitter rivals Asmara Brewery and won 3-1. The game gained much attention after Red Sea signed Asmara Brewery striker Abel Woldeyohannes and playmaker Mikael Habte in January.
Red Sea took the lead through Abel Teklezegi but the beer producers equalized before half time when Hanibal Miakel struck a goal. Red Sea scored twice after the 87th minute through Semon Asmelash’s brace to notch a victory.
Denden are top of the standings with 24 points, five points ahead of second placed Red Sea.
Results
Adulis 3-2 Sembel
Air Force 0-2 Al Tahrir
Mai Temenay 2-0 Paradizo
Godayef 0-1 Denden
Asmara Brewery 1-3 Red Sea
League Table (Top-5)
Points
Denden
24
Red Sea FC
19
Godayef
10
Sembel
10
Air Force
10
Feb 19, 2025
Eritrea Super Division: Al Tahrir goes third with a win over Paradiso
Week 9 of the Eritrean Super Division saw Al Tahrir climbing to third with a win over strugglers Paradiso. The two-time Eritrean champions still have a long way to go to catch leaders Denden and Red Sea.
In a game played out in Asmara, Al Tahrir beat Paradiso 2-0. Second half goals from Meron Andom and Yonatan Tekeste handed the capital side a much-needed win to go third before the first-round games ended.
Elsewhere, Mai Temenai and Sembel Company played out a one all draw. Seme Mebrehatu handed Sembel the lead but his strike was canceled out by Abel Tekeste in the dying moments of the game.
Asmara Brewery bounced back from round 8 defeat as they emerged 1-0 winners against Air Force. Hanibal Mekael scored the sole goal of the game in the 29th minute. Denden FC are still leading the standing while record champions Red Sea are second.
Eritrea Super Division: Al Tahrir goes third with a win over Paradiso
Week 9 of the Eritrean Super Division saw Al Tahrir climbing to third with a win over strugglers Paradiso. The two-time Eritrean champions still have a long way to go to catch leaders Denden and Red Sea.
In a game played out in Asmara, Al Tahrir beat Paradiso 2-0. Second half goals from Meron Andom and Yonatan Tekeste handed the capital side a much-needed win to go third before the first-round games ended.
Elsewhere, Mai Temenai and Sembel Company played out a one all draw. Seme Mebrehatu handed Sembel the lead but his strike was canceled out by Abel Tekeste in the dying moments of the game.
Asmara Brewery bounced back from round 8 defeat as they emerged 1-0 winners against Air Force. Hanibal Mekael scored the sole goal of the game in the 29th minute. Denden FC are still leading the standing while record champions Red Sea are second.
Feb 20, 2025
Eritrea Super Division: Unbeaten Denden secure status as midpoint leaders
The 2024/25 Eritrea Super Divisionhas reached the midway point with reigning champions Denden FC topping the table. Red Sea continued on their winning form to be second.
Denden maintained their winning streak with a 3-0 victory over Adulis. Simon Habte bagged a brace in each half as Seme Tekie scored from the spot to give the reigning champions a well deserved three points. Denden are on a nine-match winning streak as they look to defend their title.
In the other game Red Sea managed to thump Godayef 3-0. Abeselom Tekelzgi, Medhane Redea, Meron Bemenet scored the three goals. Denden now top the table with 27 points with Red Sea five points back.
League Table (Top-3)
Points
Denden
27
Red Sea FC
22
Al Tahrir
15
Eritrea Super Division: Unbeaten Denden secure status as midpoint leaders
The 2024/25 Eritrea Super Divisionhas reached the midway point with reigning champions Denden FC topping the table. Red Sea continued on their winning form to be second.
Denden maintained their winning streak with a 3-0 victory over Adulis. Simon Habte bagged a brace in each half as Seme Tekie scored from the spot to give the reigning champions a well deserved three points. Denden are on a nine-match winning streak as they look to defend their title.
In the other game Red Sea managed to thump Godayef 3-0. Abeselom Tekelzgi, Medhane Redea, Meron Bemenet scored the three goals. Denden now top the table with 27 points with Red Sea five points back.
League Table (Top-3)
Points
Denden
27
Red Sea FC
22
Al Tahrir
15
Renaissance Sportive de Berkane are Moroccan league champions for the first time. With 5 matches to play, they have a 15-point lead over 2nd place AS FAR, and since they have won the head-to-head tiebreaker over them, they are officially crowned champions of the 2024/25 Botola Pro.
While in recent years RS Berkane have won the Moroccan cup three times, the CAF Confederation Cup twice, and the CAF Super Cup once, their previous best league finish was 2nd place in 1982/83, and with their first league title they will also qualify for the CAF Champions League for the first time.
https://www.cafonline.com/caf-champions ... gue-title/
While in recent years RS Berkane have won the Moroccan cup three times, the CAF Confederation Cup twice, and the CAF Super Cup once, their previous best league finish was 2nd place in 1982/83, and with their first league title they will also qualify for the CAF Champions League for the first time.
https://www.cafonline.com/caf-champions ... gue-title/
East Asia Wrap: Record-setting Kashima remain in charge; Daejeon move clear
https://www.the-afc.com/en/more/domesti ... ve-clear-1
ASEAN Wrap: Western United narrow gap; Buriram, Persib Bandung continue to cruise
https://www.the-afc.com/en/more/domesti ... ay-ahead-1
Central & South Asia Wrap: Mumbai City book final ISL playoff spot; Tractor stay in pole
https://www.the-afc.com/en/more/domesti ... ay-in-pole
West Asia Wrap: Al Shehri penalty keeps Al Ittihad four ahead; exciting race continues in Iraq
https://www.the-afc.com/en/more/domesti ... es-in-iraq
https://www.the-afc.com/en/more/domesti ... ve-clear-1
ASEAN Wrap: Western United narrow gap; Buriram, Persib Bandung continue to cruise
https://www.the-afc.com/en/more/domesti ... ay-ahead-1
Central & South Asia Wrap: Mumbai City book final ISL playoff spot; Tractor stay in pole
https://www.the-afc.com/en/more/domesti ... ay-in-pole
West Asia Wrap: Al Shehri penalty keeps Al Ittihad four ahead; exciting race continues in Iraq
https://www.the-afc.com/en/more/domesti ... es-in-iraq
https://www.uslsoccer.com/news_article/show/1334700
United Soccer League Adopts Promotion and Relegation System, Ushering in a New Era for American Soccer
TAMPA, Fla. – The United Soccer League (USL) announced today that a supermajority of club owners voted to implement a promotion and relegation system, marking a groundbreaking decision that will reshape the future of professional soccer in the United States.
The USL becomes the first professional sports league in the U.S. to adopt this global model, creating an interconnected three-tiered men’s professional soccer system, where teams earn promotion to a higher division or face relegation to a lower division based on their performance during the season. With this historic step, the USL aligns with the world’s top leagues—including the Premier League, La Liga and Bundesliga—where promotion and relegation raises the stakes of every match, drives fan engagement, and elevates the overall competition of the game.
"A new chapter in American soccer begins. The decision by our owners to approve and move forward with this bold direction is a testament to their commitment to the long-term growth of soccer in the United States,” said Alec Papadakis, CEO of the United Soccer League. “This is a significant milestone for the USL and highlights our shared vision with our team ownership to build a league that not only provides top-tier competition but also champions community engagement. Now, just as it is in the global game, more communities in America can aspire to compete at the highest level of soccer. It’s time.”
Last month, the USL announced plans to launch a new Division One league in 2027-28, a pivotal step in its vision to establish a fully integrated three-tier professional system. As defined by U.S. Soccer Federation sanctioning standards, Division One is the highest level of professional soccer in the United States. With the USL Championship (Division Two) and USL League One (Division Three) already providing a strong foundation for player development and competition, the addition of a Division One league completes the structure. All three leagues will be interconnected through a structured promotion and relegation system, where more matches matter, rewarding performance and unlocking new opportunities for clubs, players, and fans.
"Promotion and relegation transforms the competitive landscape of American soccer," said Paul McDonough, President and Chief Soccer Officer of the USL. “With the 2026 World Cup and other major international events approaching, we have a unique opportunity to build on that momentum and create a sustainable future for the sport in the U.S. Fans and stakeholders have been clear—they want something different. They’re drawn to the intensity of high-stakes competition, where more matches have real consequences—just like we see in European leagues. This shift challenges the status quo and brings a level of excitement and relevance that can elevate the game across the country.”
More details about the implementation and structure of promotion and relegation will be shared in the coming months. For updates, please visit uslsoccer.com.
United Soccer League Adopts Promotion and Relegation System, Ushering in a New Era for American Soccer
TAMPA, Fla. – The United Soccer League (USL) announced today that a supermajority of club owners voted to implement a promotion and relegation system, marking a groundbreaking decision that will reshape the future of professional soccer in the United States.
The USL becomes the first professional sports league in the U.S. to adopt this global model, creating an interconnected three-tiered men’s professional soccer system, where teams earn promotion to a higher division or face relegation to a lower division based on their performance during the season. With this historic step, the USL aligns with the world’s top leagues—including the Premier League, La Liga and Bundesliga—where promotion and relegation raises the stakes of every match, drives fan engagement, and elevates the overall competition of the game.
"A new chapter in American soccer begins. The decision by our owners to approve and move forward with this bold direction is a testament to their commitment to the long-term growth of soccer in the United States,” said Alec Papadakis, CEO of the United Soccer League. “This is a significant milestone for the USL and highlights our shared vision with our team ownership to build a league that not only provides top-tier competition but also champions community engagement. Now, just as it is in the global game, more communities in America can aspire to compete at the highest level of soccer. It’s time.”
Last month, the USL announced plans to launch a new Division One league in 2027-28, a pivotal step in its vision to establish a fully integrated three-tier professional system. As defined by U.S. Soccer Federation sanctioning standards, Division One is the highest level of professional soccer in the United States. With the USL Championship (Division Two) and USL League One (Division Three) already providing a strong foundation for player development and competition, the addition of a Division One league completes the structure. All three leagues will be interconnected through a structured promotion and relegation system, where more matches matter, rewarding performance and unlocking new opportunities for clubs, players, and fans.
"Promotion and relegation transforms the competitive landscape of American soccer," said Paul McDonough, President and Chief Soccer Officer of the USL. “With the 2026 World Cup and other major international events approaching, we have a unique opportunity to build on that momentum and create a sustainable future for the sport in the U.S. Fans and stakeholders have been clear—they want something different. They’re drawn to the intensity of high-stakes competition, where more matches have real consequences—just like we see in European leagues. This shift challenges the status quo and brings a level of excitement and relevance that can elevate the game across the country.”
More details about the implementation and structure of promotion and relegation will be shared in the coming months. For updates, please visit uslsoccer.com.
Two UAE clubs, Shabab Al Ahli and Sharjah, played 5 consecutive matches against each other this month.
5 March: AFC Champions League Two quarter-finals first leg
Shabab Al Ahli 1-1 Sharjah
12 March: AFC Champions League Two quarter-finals second leg
Sharjah 1-1 (aet, 5-4 pen) Shabab Al Ahli
Sharjah advance to semi-finals.
18 March: UAE League Cup semi-finals first leg
Sharjah 1-3 Shabab Al Ahli
23 March: UAE League Cup semi-finals second leg
Shabab Al Ahli 2-2 Sharjah
Shabab Al Ahli advance to final.
28 March: UAE League match
Sharjah 0-0 Shabab Al Ahli
Shabab Al Ahli remain top of league, 7 points above 2nd place Sharjah.
5 March: AFC Champions League Two quarter-finals first leg
Shabab Al Ahli 1-1 Sharjah
12 March: AFC Champions League Two quarter-finals second leg
Sharjah 1-1 (aet, 5-4 pen) Shabab Al Ahli
Sharjah advance to semi-finals.
18 March: UAE League Cup semi-finals first leg
Sharjah 1-3 Shabab Al Ahli
23 March: UAE League Cup semi-finals second leg
Shabab Al Ahli 2-2 Sharjah
Shabab Al Ahli advance to final.
28 March: UAE League match
Sharjah 0-0 Shabab Al Ahli
Shabab Al Ahli remain top of league, 7 points above 2nd place Sharjah.
The Brasileirao 2025 started yesterday evening and already the first coach has been fired, it's Mano Menezes of Fluminense, who lost 2-0 vs Fortaleza.
Gabriel Barbosa scored immediately in Cruzeiro (they beat Mirassol 2-1).
Flamengo vs Internacional 1-1.
East Asia Wrap: Kashima Antlers edge Vissel Kobe; crucial win for Shandong Taishan
https://www.the-afc.com/en/more/domesti ... ng-taishan
ASEAN Wrap: Svay Rieng, Buriram United stay in control
https://www.the-afc.com/en/more/domesti ... in-control
Central & South Asia Wrap: ISL semi-finalists confirmed; Tractor keep on rolling
https://www.the-afc.com/en/more/domesti ... on-rolling
West Asia Wrap: Al Duhail maintain narrow lead; Shahab Al Ahli well clear
https://www.the-afc.com/en/more/domesti ... well-clear
https://www.the-afc.com/en/more/domesti ... ng-taishan
ASEAN Wrap: Svay Rieng, Buriram United stay in control
https://www.the-afc.com/en/more/domesti ... in-control
Central & South Asia Wrap: ISL semi-finalists confirmed; Tractor keep on rolling
https://www.the-afc.com/en/more/domesti ... on-rolling
West Asia Wrap: Al Duhail maintain narrow lead; Shahab Al Ahli well clear
https://www.the-afc.com/en/more/domesti ... well-clear
And they will meet one more time, their 7th meeting this season, after both reach the UAE President's Cup final.amenina wrote: Sat Mar 29, 2025 09:46 Two UAE clubs, Shabab Al Ahli and Sharjah, played 5 consecutive matches against each other this month.
5 March: AFC Champions League Two quarter-finals first leg
Shabab Al Ahli 1-1 Sharjah
12 March: AFC Champions League Two quarter-finals second leg
Sharjah 1-1 (aet, 5-4 pen) Shabab Al Ahli
Sharjah advance to semi-finals.
18 March: UAE League Cup semi-finals first leg
Sharjah 1-3 Shabab Al Ahli
23 March: UAE League Cup semi-finals second leg
Shabab Al Ahli 2-2 Sharjah
Shabab Al Ahli advance to final.
28 March: UAE League match
Sharjah 0-0 Shabab Al Ahli
Shabab Al Ahli remain top of league, 7 points above 2nd place Sharjah.
Shabab Al Ahli is still "unbeaten" (of course considering the penalty shoot-out loss in the AFC Champions League Two as a draw), as they won their first meeting, at home 2-1 in the league in October.