Speaking in Abidjan during the FIFA World Cup Trophy Tour, the ex-Chelsea defender singled out Côte d’Ivoire as Africa’s strongest contender to reach the final.

“Remember, statistically, Morocco managed to reach the semi-final during the past World Cup. We are now hoping that with nine African teams in the system, one of them will reach the final, so maybe Ivory Coast,” Desailly said.

“You don’t know, even though I love Ghana to go to the final, I believe that Ivorians have the potential to reach the final. The hope and belief give excitement to every single fan who loves the game because football is absolutely magnificent,” he added.

Côte d’Ivoire will be aiming to progress beyond the group stage for the first time, having exited in the opening rounds of their previous three World Cup appearances in 2006, 2010, and 2014.

Ghana, drawn in Group L alongside Panama, England, and Croatia, will also be targeting a breakthrough after an early exit at the 2022 Qatar tournament.

Bradley, 22, was forced off during Thursday’s 0-0 Premier League draw at Arsenal after landing awkwardly near the touchline when chasing the ball in stoppage time.

The injury is not related to his anterior cruciate ligament but he will have surgery in the coming days.

The full-back is also now a major doubt for the World Cup if Northern Ireland qualify.

He will miss their difficult play-off semi-final in Italy on 26 March.

Arsenal winger Gabriel Martinelli later apologised for trying to push Bradley off the pitch when he was down injured.

Martinelli dropped the ball on his opponent before shoving him in the back in an attempt to get him off the playing surface to allow the game to continue.

That action sparked a melee between the two sets of players, with Martinelli and Liverpool’s Ibrahima Konate both yellow-carded for their involvement.

Former Manchester United players Gary Neville and Roy Keane were both highly critical of Martinelli on Sky Sports, with Neville saying his actions were “absolutely disgraceful” and describing the Arsenal winger as an “idiot”.

“I really didn’t understand he was seriously injured in the heat of the moment,” Martinelli posted on Instagram.

“I want to say I’m deeply sorry for reacting. Sending Conor all my best again for a quick recovery.”

Since Trent Alexander-Arnold left for Real Madrid in the summer, Bradley has been Liverpool’s first choice right-back, starting 12 of their Premier League games this season.

Manager Arne Slot’s potential alternatives are limited with Joe Gomez as an option, while Dominik Szoboszlai has also slotted in as a full-back on occasion.

The more likely option is Jeremie Frimpong, who has been performing further forward down the right flank in recent weeks.

For the first time in over two decades, the Black Stars failed to make it to the continental tournament after finishing bottom of their qualifying group with just three points from six matches — without recording a single victory.

The setback led to the dissolution of the then Management Committee chaired by Ghana Football Association (GFA) Vice President, Mark Addo. A new committee was subsequently constituted, with Dr Randy Abbey appointed as Chairman, former Black Stars captain Stephen Appiah as Vice Chairman, and Moses Armah, Samuel Aboabire, and Dr Richard Nsenkyire serving as members.

Under the leadership of the newly assembled committee, Ghana bounced back to secure qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show, Dr Abbey admitted the task was daunting but said the group was motivated to change the team’s fortunes.

“It was a difficult time when we accepted to work as the Black Stars Management Committee, especially having failed to qualify for the AFCON, but we knew that we could turn it around once we got the support from the President [John Mahama] and the Sports Minister, Kofi Adams. 

He added that key adjustments were made to strengthen the technical setup, which ultimately paid off.

“We tweaked the technical team; we were confident that it would work for us with the resources and expertise around. Failing to qualify for the AFCON was a big blow, and we could not underestimate it. With the World Cup coming up next, there was no way we were going to miss out on the World Cup, even though our performance at the AFCON had not been great, but there was no way we were going to miss out,” he added.

The Black Stars will learn their group-stage opponents for the 2026 World Cup on December 5.

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Ghana enters 2026 World Cup with confidence and rising expectations

The 2026 FIFA World Cup, hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, will feature an expanded format of 48 teams and fresh tactical narratives. Among the African hopefuls, Ghana’s Black Stars stand out as one of the most unpredictable and exciting sides. Having successfully qualified for the 2026 tournament, Ghana enters the competition with renewed confidence after missing the 2018 World Cup and exiting early in Qatar 2022. Fans and analysts are now debating an important question: How far can Ghana really go in 2026?

With a growing generation of talents and improved tactical organisation, expectations are rising once again. Ghana is no longer just a team of raw energy and passion. It is evolving into a technically sophisticated side with real tournament potential.

Squad strength and Ghana’s legacy

Ghana has always been a football nation rich in talent and passion. From the legendary Abedi Pele in the 1990s to Asamoah Gyan, Michael Essien, and Sulley Muntari in the 2000s, the Black Stars have produced world-class players. Their golden run at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, reaching the quarter-finals and narrowly missing the semis, remains one of Africa’s greatest football stories.

Ghana’s current squad blends elite athleticism, technical skill, and European experience, anchored by star midfielder Mohammed Kudus, whose creativity, dribbling flair, and goalscoring ability make him a central figure for both club and country. In midfield, Thomas Partey provides defensive stability and intelligent passing, supported by disciplined players like Salis Abdul Samed and Elisha Owusu.

Up front, Ghana boasts a dynamic attack with pace and finishing ability, while the defense remains solid and well-organized, backed by reliable options in goal. This new generation carries forward Ghana’s rich football legacy. It embodies this continuity; creative, fearless, and technically gifted symbolizing Ghana’s ongoing evolution on the world stage.

ALT: People watching a football match 

Black Stars ready to challenge top teams in WC 2026

With the new 48-team World Cup format, three teams from each group will advance to the knockout stage. For Ghana, qualification from the group stage is not just realistic—it is confirmed, following their dominant 5-0 victory over the Central African Republic, a win that secured their place at the 2026 tournament. The real test for the Black Stars will come in the knockout rounds, particularly the Round of 32 and Round of 16, where they may face strong European or South American sides. If they can maintain tactical discipline and capitalize on their attacking talent, Ghana has the potential to advance deep into the tournament.

Their young stars, combined with World Cup experience, make them one of Africa’s most exciting teams to watch heading into 2026.

The minister, speaking on JoyNews’ PM Express, said that although the national team’s recent 5–0 win over the Central African Republic in Morocco was a major boost, there are still concerns about the coach’s technical decisions.

“Well, he has been lucky, but there are still concerns,” Mr Adams said.

“Concerns that he himself, most times when we meet, will admit—maybe I should have done a substitution, or I should have urged them on, or I should have fielded this person to play this role. So there are concerns. But I must say he’s been lucky. It doesn’t mean that he shouldn’t improve.”

Pressed on whether Otto Addo’s success was due to luck rather than competence, the minister said he would not describe the coach as incompetent but admitted he was not entirely satisfied.

“I can’t say that he’s totally incompetent. I can’t use that word because I’m not a coach; I’m only a minister who loves the game and analyses it. Other coaches can describe whether he’s competent or not. But I’m not satisfied; that’s all that I’m seeking to say,” he explained.

He added that while qualification was a good sign, it had not been a comfortable experience.

“Yes, he’s qualified, but I know I have sat on some hooks and nails and things that were pointing me to get up in the past. I’ve had to get up to use the washroom a number of times by force,” he stated, before repeating that he could not describe Otto Addo as incompetent.

When asked whether Otto Addo is the right man to lead Ghana to the World Cup, the minister declined to make a definitive statement.

“Well, I can’t answer that question now. If I answer it, then I will be creating a situation. Maybe you have some people who say they want another person, and you have others who say they want him. Then, if I answered this question now, I would have been creating a problem. We still have games ahead of us,” he said.

Mr. Adams made it clear that the decision on whether Otto Addo stays or goes is not one the ministry can make.

“The minister doesn’t take those decisions. The minister will receive briefings, analyse them, but not take the decision alone. There’s a federation that we have handed over our national team to manage—that’s the Ghana Football Association. They have a role to play. So I cannot sit here and be talking about whether we are retaining or dismissing the coach,” he emphasised.

He added that decisions within the national team structure are made regularly and go beyond coaching appointments.

“There are decisions to be made every day, including even who plays and who doesn’t play. There are decisions whether in coaching, nutrition, or the physiotherapy department,” he said.

The Black Stars are now just one point away from securing qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after their dominant performance against the Central African Republic.

Otto Addo’s men sit at the top of Group I with a three-point lead, but as the Sports Minister’s comments make clear, their head coach’s future will ultimately be decided by the GFA.

Source: Abubakar Ibrahim

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Match Commissioners.

These are the officials who, by regulation, are responsible for ensuring order, safety, and protocol compliance before the first whistle blows. Yet, when matches spiral into chaos, or security collapses, no one asks the obvious: Where was the Match Commissioner?

The Match Commissioner: A Role Beyond the Clipboard

According to the GFA’s own General Regulations, a Match Commissioner is not just a passive observer. Their job begins before the players line up. They are tasked with:

• • Leading pre-match coordination meetings.
• • Ensuring all security and organizational arrangements are in place.
• • Checking accreditation and access control for designated zones.
• • Monitoring the referee’s preparation and environmental conditions.
• • Submitting an official match report immediately after the game.

Crucially, the Match Commissioner has the power to delay the start of a match if safety conditions are not met.

Yet in Ghanaian football today, many of these duties are either ignored, rushed through, or treated as formalities. And when problems erupt, it’s always the referee who ends up in the firing line—never the commissioner who allowed the game to start in a compromised environment.

A Benchmark of Professionalism: Ashford Tetteh Oku’s Example

For context, let’s revisit the 2014/15 season, when Ashford Tetteh Oku won Match Commissioner of the Year. He earned that title not for turning a blind eye to the rules, but for standing by them, no matter who was involved.

In one now-famous incident, Oku reportedly denied entry to then-GFA President Kwesi Nyantakyi into the secure area of a stadium because he was not properly accredited. Let that sink in: the most powerful man in Ghanaian football was turned away because the Match Commissioner respected the protocols more than personalities.

Today, how many match commissioners would have the courage or professionalism to do the same?

The Decline: From Watchdogs to Sleeping Dogs

Unfortunately, many of today’s Match Commissioners have become what some insiders cynically call “sleeping dogs.” Present in name, absent in action.

Matches begin with questionable crowd control, poor perimeter security, and unauthorized individuals roaming restricted zones, yet games proceed without a hitch.

When post-match incidents occur, pitch invasions, fan assaults, and referee harassment, very few ask how those threats were allowed to develop in the first place. The Match Commissioner, who should have flagged and addressed these dangers before kickoff, is nowhere in the conversation.

Instead, attention is diverted to the referee’s penalty decision or a questionable offside call.

The Consequences Are Too High

This isn’t just a bureaucratic lapse. The consequences of the Match Commissioners’ neglecting their duties are real:

• • Fan safety is compromised, as seen in past tragedies.
• • Players and referees are endangered due to lax perimeter control.
• • GFA’s image suffers, as basic organisational standards are flouted.
• • Public trust erodes, as fans wonder if there’s any accountability beyond the referee’s whistle.

The silent failure of Match Commissioners enables these outcomes, and yet, their role remains unexamined in the media, even by analysts who should know better.

What Needs to Happen Now

If Ghanaian football is serious about raising standards, the role of the Match Commissioner must be restored to its rightful importance.

Here’s how:

1. Media Spotlight

Talk shows, analysis segments, and GFA briefings must start mentioning commissioners when things go wrong or right.

2. Training and Empowerment

Commissioners need continuous training and full institutional backing to assert themselves on match day, even against club officials or powerful personalities.

3. Strict Protocol Enforcement

No accreditation? No entry. No exceptions. Let’s return to that Ashford Tetteh Oku standard.

4. Audits and Accountability

Post-match commissioner reports should be subject to audit and review. Penalties must apply for negligence.

5. Public Recognition

Just as we award Best Referee of the Season, let’s also recognise and reward Match Commissioners who uphold integrity and discipline in our game.

 Don’t Just Blow the Whistle, Check Who Started the Game

Referees will always be in the spotlight. But it’s time football fans, media, and administrators widen their lens. Before any controversial decision on the pitch, there’s a commissioner who allows the match to begin.

Let’s not keep pointing fingers only at the whistle-blowers. Let’s also hold accountable those who stood at the gates and let chaos walk in.

With several high-profile lengthy video assistant referee (VAR) decisions in recent weeks, it is hoped the technology will start to reduce the delays and some debates.

Clubs voted in the technology last April, but its rollout has been pushed back from the autumn for more trials.

It is designed to make the judgement of tight offside calls easier for officials by making key parts of the review process automatic.

The Premier League says the artificial intelligence system “enhances the speed, efficiency and consistency of offside decision-making”.

It is not used for other VAR involvements such as penalties, goal reviews for handballs or other fouls, red cards or mistaken identity.

The first Premier League game with the technology will be Manchester City’s home match with Crystal Palace on Saturday (12:30 BST).

So how does it work?

First things first, the name. Why semi-automated? Don’t be confused – it just means humans have to verify the system’s decision.

We have already seen SAOT in this season’s Champions League and in the FA Cup from the fifth round onwards.

When a tight offside decision goes to a VAR review, SAOT steps in.

Previously, officials in the VAR room needed to decide on three key things – when the ball was kicked, where and at what angle the defender’s body was when the ball was kicked and where and what angle the attacker’s body was at the moment of contact.

Viewers at home have seen this manual process played out with lines drawn with crosshairs on freeze-frame replays shown on their TV screens.

All three of those decisions will now be automatically taken by the technology to remove some elements of human subjectivity, such as which frame to freeze as the ball is kicked.

Bespoke cameras have been installed beneath the roof at all 20 Premier League stadiums to monitor a variety of key elements.

About 30 cameras – working at 100 frames per second – will track the exact movement of the ball as well as 10,000 data points on the bodies of all 22 players.

It means it can be automatically determined whether an attacking player’s body was beyond the last defender at the exact time the ball was played.

VAR officials check the system has correctly determined the three key points it measures before confirming the decision. The on-field officials then inform the players.

A 3D animation of the decision produced by the artificial intelligence will then be played on television for viewers at home and on big screens in the stadium.

As yet, the officials will not speak to the crowd, as has been seen in the Carabao Cup.

Will it end the lengthy delays?

Image source: The FA

Image caption: We’ve already seen SAOT working in the FA Cup and Champions League this season

In short, a little.

But it’s important to remember we are only talking about offside decisions here – which are largely factual – and not subjective refereeing calls on goals, penalties and red cards, which will still go to VAR.

SAOT will increase the speed of the virtual offside line placements and it will help in crowded penalty areas.

The delay in disallowing Moises Caicedo’s goal in Chelsea’s 1-0 win over Tottenham was about four minutes, and there is confidence SAOT would have cut that wait by about two minutes.

But it would not have reduced the time – more than three minutes – that it took to disallow Pape Sarr’s goal in the same game which led to Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou claiming that VAR was “killing the game”. That goal was ruled out for a foul that was spotted in midfield, rather than for an offside.

The Premier League says there has already been 100% accuracy with offsides this season, with the average VAR delay at 39 seconds per game, compared with 64 seconds last season.

Ultimately, SAOT will reduce, but not eliminate, VAR delays for complex situations.

What was learned from eight-minute delay at Bournemouth?

Image source: Getty Images

Image caption: Milos Kerkez’s goal was eventually disallowed after a record VAR delay

In Bournemouth’s FA Cup fifth-round win over Wolves – one of the ‘trial’ games – SAOT made the headlines after a record eight-minute VAR stoppage.

The officials were unable to rely on the new technology during the check, and they needed to revert to manually drawn lines before disallowing Bournemouth defender Milos Kerkez’s 35th-minute goal.

The Football Association said the issue was caused by a congested penalty area.

It was reviewed and it was recognised the speed of the process and switching between technologies – AI and data platform Genius Sports supply the SAOT – could have been improved.

It was felt some time could have been saved before recognising the new technology was not going to be able to help in that situation.

There are no plans for a time cut-off for VAR checks, despite recent criticism.

The argument from referees’ body PGMOL is that it can sometimes take time for officials to check through multiple issues with multiple processes – the last of which may be decisive but fall out of any time limit, should one be imposed.

Pep Guardiola’s Premier League champions knew only victory would suffice to avoid the abject embarrassment of slipping out of the top 24 places in the tournament’s new format.

And they were left facing that grim prospect after Raphael Onyedika gave Club Brugge a shock lead as he turned in Ferran Jutgla’s cross just before half-time.

City needed a response with tension mounting, duly providing it against a Belgian side who showed enough to fully deserve their place in the play-offs.

Mateo Kovacic drove low past former Liverpool goalkeeper Simon Mignolet eight minutes after the break before Joel Ordonez turned Josko Gvardiol’s cross into his own net as City finally exerted a measure of control.

City settled nerves even more when Savinho scored with a low shot that crept in past Mignolet at his near post as Guardiola was finally able to contemplate further progress in the competition Manchester City won in 2023.

Lyon owner John Textor is also co-owner of Premier League club Crystal Palace and the largest shareholder of Brazilian club Botafogo.

His Eagle Football Group recently announced debts of £422m.

The DNGC, the body which oversees the accounts of French professional football clubs, made the ruling on Friday.

Lyon will also have their payroll supervised by the DNGC.

Seven-time French champions Lyon are likely to have to sell several key players in January to get their accounts in order and maintain their top-flight status.

American Textor could reportedly help manage the debt by selling his stake in Palace or selling Botafogo players.

Lyon are fifth in Ligue 1 and ninth in the Europa League.

Visitor visa processing times have risen to 600 days for travellers in some countries, a big hurdle for fans who want to support one of the yet-to-be-determined 48 teams set to compete in the globally watched sporting event.

“If you don’t have your visa today, you’re not getting here for a World Cup that’s taking place in 2026,” Geoff Freeman, President and chief executive of the non-profit U.S. Travel Association told a group of reporters.

The U.S. State Department says the situation is not that dire, as it regularly assesses capacity and wait times in countries likely to play in the tournament, scheduled from June to July 2026 in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

“While we encourage prospective FIFA World Cup visitors who will need U.S. visas to apply now, there is still plenty of time for fans to apply for their visas,” a State Department spokesperson said in a statement.

Travelers are waiting on average 260 days for an appointment to interview for a first-time visitor visa, Freeman said. Average wait times in Colombia are currently about 670 days, according to the Association, which would mean those visitors would miss the tournament.

In Mexico, the average wait is 458 days, and travelers from India are facing waits of up to 404 days for an interview.

More than 30 million travelers hold valid U.S. tourist visas and therefore would not have a problem if they wanted to attend the event, the State Department said.

FIFA is working with the Canadian, Mexican and U.S. governments to ensure that those who need visas can get them, a spokesperson said.

President Biden condemned the attack and spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to reiterate the United States’ “ironclad” commitment to Israeli security, the White House said.

Other allies including Germany, Canada, France and Britain reaffirmed their support for Israel in the wake of the attack while expressing fears that Tehran’s assault could further destabilize the Middle East.

Iranian state media said the missile and drone assault was in retaliation to a deadly Israeli strike on an Iranian diplomatic compound in Syria on April 1.

What happened

More than 300 drones, cruise missiles and ballistic missiles were launched by Iran in the first full-scale military attack on Israel by Tehran. Around 99 percent of the projectiles were intercepted, according to Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, the Israel Defense Forces spokesman.

Some of the projectiles fell inside Israeli territory, and one damaged a military base in the country’s south, Hagari said. A young girl who was seriously injured in the attack underwent surgery and was moved to the pediatric intensive care unit, according to Israel’s Soroka Hospital.

Hagari said “a coalition” of countries helped Israel with intercepting the projectiles. The U.S. military helped Israel take down “nearly all” of the drones and missiles, Biden said. British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said Britain’s Royal Air Force shot down “a number of Iranian attack drones,” while Jordan’s cabinet said it “dealt with” objects that flew through its airspace overnight. France also contributed technological support, Hagari said.

Israel’s war cabinet was expected to meet Sunday afternoon local time to discuss its response. The U.N. Security Council is expected to meet Sunday afternoon, Reuters reported, after Israel asked the council to condemn Tehran’s attack and designate the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps as a terrorist organization. Leaders of the Group of Seven are also expected to meet Sunday to discuss Iran’s attack against Israel.

Tehran’s attack on Saturday was “four-pronged,” according to a report by the state-run Tasnim News Agency, originating from sites in Iran, Lebanon, Iraq and Yemen. The commander of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, Maj. Gen. Hossein Salami, called Tehran’s attack “more successful than we had expected” and warned that any retaliation by Israel would draw a more forceful response.

Why did Iran attack Israel?

Iranian media said the attack was in retaliation for an Israeli strike this month on an Iranian consular building in Damascus, Syria, which killed members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, including senior commander Mohammad Reza Zahedi and Brig. Gen. Mohammad Hadi Haj Rahimi.

Hamas expressed support for Iran’s attack on Israel this weekend, calling it a deserved response to the attack in Syria. Officials from the rebel Houthi group in Yemen congratulated Iran while downplaying their own involvement; Hagari said some UAVs and cruise missiles were launched from Yemen.

Israel has carried out strikes in Syria against Iran and its allies for years and throughout its six-month military campaign against Hamas in Gaza. But the April 1 attack stood out both because of its location — in a diplomatic compound, traditionally exempt from hostilities — and because of the seniority of the apparent targets.

Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, promised that his country would avenge the Damascus attack. U.N. Secretary General António Guterres condemned the strike, citing “the inviolability of diplomatic and consular premises.”

What is the recent history between Iran and Israel?

Iran has funded attacks on Israel in the decades before Israel’s war in Gaza that began Oct. 7, and its proxies have stepped up strikes in the months since.

Hezbollah, an Iranian-backed Lebanon-based armed group, has been firing rockets into Israel since the start of the war. Iran also supports Houthi rebels by smuggling weapons to Yemen, allowing the Houthis to prolong a deadly campaign of violence against commercial shipping.

Israel and Iran have been waging a covert war of assassinations and sabotage for years, The Post has reported.

More recently, Iran accused Israel of killing Brig. Gen. Sayyed Razi Mousavi, a senior adviser to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, in a missile strike in Syria in December. Israel declined to comment on this accusation.

Israel’s main focus for attacks in Iran has been the country’s nuclear program, which Israel has tried to undermine for years, The Post reported.

In 2021 Iran blamed Israel for an electrical blackout at Iran’s nuclear facilities, and more than a decade ago when a computer virus targeted Iranian nuclear infrastructure, the malware was suspected to be developed by Israel and the United States.

Having missed out on the initial game against Cape Verde, Kudus delivered a standout performance as the Black Stars secured a 2-2 draw against the reigning champions at the Felix Houphouet Boigny Stadium on Thursday night.

The West Ham midfielder showcased his prowess with 41 touches, an impressive 91% passing accuracy, one key pass, two on-target shots, four successful long balls, and one shot blocked.

Taking to his Twitter, Gyan said; “This is what we call QUALITY. Kudussssss”

The tweet from Gyan quickly captured the attention of fans and football enthusiasts, with many Ghanaians in the comments sharing similar sentiments.

Check out the tweet below:

This is what we call QUALITY. Kudussssss????

— ASAMOAH GYAN (@ASAMOAH_GYAN3) January 18, 2024

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The passionate supporters, who were transported to Ivory Coast by government to cheer the Black Stars at the ongoing African Cup of Nations (AFCON 2023), on Monday, January 15, expressed their disappointment at the lack of coordination and support from the organizing bodies.

Frustrated by the perceived neglect, the over 300 supporters issued a collective threat to abandon their posts and head back to Ghana.

However, a journalist with the supporters confirmed to Citi News that, officials engaged in negotiations with the disgruntled supporters after they threatened to expose the officials and return to Ghana.

After rounds of discussions, all the disgruntled supporters were paid $400 each to address their concerns.

“There is good news. Yesterday after the story broke, around midnight, infact most of us here went to sleep before the officials came and they came to call us and they gave us what we were due.”

Asked if all the supporters received $400, the journalist responded, “I am not aware but what I do know from some of the dwellers [from other hotels] is that they also received $400 as those at the hotel [I am] received.

“For the entire tournament, in fact, officials were unable to tell us, so we don’t know if this [$400] is going to be for the entire tournament.”

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With years of experience calling matches from major international tournaments, he will helm New World’s coverage of the continental showpiece in the Ivory Coast.

Addo Jnr. will begin his job on-site as primary commentator for the AFCON 2023 opening game between Ivory Coast and Guinea Bissau. He will be alongside New World’s Anthony Pla, ex-Cameroon international, Sébastien Bassong, and former Togo captain Emmanuel Sheyi Adebayor. 

The renowned journalist, who joined the BBC World Service from Ghana’s Multimedia Group in early 2023, will look to bring significant experience to this role, having expertly commentated on several major sporting tournaments.

These include five previous AFCON tournaments, two European football championships, five UEFA Champions League campaigns, three FIFA World Cup tournaments and seven Ghana Premier League seasons.

He has been recognised as one of the best English commentators ever produced in Ghana by the venerable Mirror newspaper.

His clear, distinct, and captivating commentary style on radio and TV has led to a three-time nomination for the PAV Ansah Communications Award under the prestigious EMY Africa Awards scheme.

Addo Jnr. was accredited to cover the UEFA Champions League finals in 2016, 2017, and 2018, demonstrating his global expertise in the field.

He also made history in 2021 by delivering commentary on the Euros final between England and Italy from Wembley for Ghana’s Joy FM.

At that same tournament, he provided television commentary for Joy Prime, who had exclusive TV rights to the games.

“I am thrilled at the opportunity to join this excellent group of professionals to showcase the AFCON, which is one of the world’s most exciting competitions, to the global audience. I look forward to a fantastic month of colourful stories, goals, and making of legends,” Addo said.

Under the terms of the agreement, Addo Jnr will lead New World’s English-language commentary team from the opening match through the final. Working with experienced analysts, he aims to provide insightful match analysis and share his passion for African soccer with soccer fans tuning in globally.

New World TV will also have commentary of all 52 AFCON matches in six African languages: Wolof, Bambara, Lingala, Ewe, Swahili and Hausa.

The 34th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations kicks off in Abidjan on Saturday, 13 January until 11 February 2024.

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The Ghana champions will be hosted by the Tanzanian side in the matchday four games at the Benjamin Mkapa National stadium on Wednesday afternoon.

However, the Yellow and Mauve have been denied access to a proper training facility on both Monday and Tuesday, leading to uncertainty about their preparations.

However, Adotey remains optimistic, stating that a win or draw would see his team progress.

“Psychologically, we’re prepared because like I said earlier, I need to be cautious. A win or a draw tomorrow will see my team marching forward. A defeat will bring the morale of my team down,” he said during a press conference.

“Four out of nine points, I need a win or a draw to keep going because the next game against Al Ahly is also a very difficult task. My boys are psyched and we’re ready for the battle tomorrow. The field will decide tomorrow at the end of the day.”

The first leg of the match between Medeama and Yanga SC ended in a 1-1 draw in Kumasi, and the Ghanaian champions are eager to secure three points in Wednesday’s match to enhance their qualification prospects.

The game has been scheduled to kick off at 13:00GMT.

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Unlike the previous government, there were only nine new ministers instead of 18 and for the first time, the ceremony took place behind closed doors — no press, no livestream. 

Earlier on Sunday the new administration revealed its first “Decree of Necessity and Urgency” (Decreto de Necesidad y Urgencia, or DNU) — a type of presidential decree which allows them to legislate without going through Congress first.

The 76-page document confirmed that the Milei government is halving the number of ministries from the previous government, leaving only nine. The drastic reduction was a staple proposal of his electoral platform known as the “Chainsaw Plan.”  

Although initially doomed, the Health Ministry survived the chop. The original plan was to have only eight ministries and fold health into the new “Human Capital” ministry, which combines what were formerly the education and labor ministries.

Mario Russo, a cardiologist who previously held a government role in Buenos Aires province, will be the country’s new health minister.

Patricia Bullrich and Luis Petri, the erstwhile presidential ticket for Juntos por el Cambio, were sworn in as security and defense ministers respectively.

This will be Bullrich’s second stint on the job, having held the same role during former President Mauricio Macri’s government (2015–2019).

Following the substantial reduction, these are Milei’s nine ministers plus his new chief of staff (a role typically also sworn in alongside ministers on December 10).

• Chief of Staff Nicolás Posse 
• Economy Minister Luis Caputo 
• Security Minister Patricia Bullrich 
• Defense Minister Luis Petri 
• Interior Minister Guillermo Francos 
• Health Minister Mario Russo
• Justice Minister Mariano Cúneo Libarona 
• Human Capital Minister Sandra Petovello
• Infrastructure Minister Guillermo Ferraro 
• Foreign Minister Diana Mondino

By law, the executive power must inform Congress of the DNU within the next 10 days after the decree is published in Argentina’s Official Bulletin. A special commission with members of both chambers then has to analyze the decree’s language and vote on whether it’s valid. The Senate and the Chamber of Deputies then have to vote to approve it or not. Both chambers must reject a decree for it to be annulled.

The incoming Milei administration confirmed most of its government leaders this week, including the new Central Bank head Santiago Bausili — former finance secretary during the Macri administration — and surprise carry-over Marco Lavagna, who will continue as head of the National Institute for Statistics and Census (INDEC, its Spanish acronym)

‘Don’t tread on me’

Earlier on Sunday, Milei made an impromptu speech on the Casa Rosada balcony. His supporters erupted in screams, singing La Renga’s song Panic Show with him. He yelled “Viva la libertad, carajo! (Long live freedom, goddammit”)” three times and the crowd responded “Viva!” 

A green flare was lit and a giant inflatable lion head could be seen a few meters away from the gates.

“You know I have built my political career on always telling the truth and that came at a cost. But you know I prefer to tell an uncomfortable truth than a comfortable lie,” Milei said, echoing his speech from earlier on Sunday verbatim and warning of difficult days ahead. 

While most people waved the Argentine colors of white and blue, some had yellow Gadsden flags with the phrase “Don’t tread on me” and the image of a snake. “Milei, our dear, the people are with you” they chanted when the new president paused.

Following the swearing-in of his cabinet ministers, Milei is set to attend an interfaith ceremony at the Buenos Aires Cathedral. The final event of inauguration day will be a gala at Teatro Colón at 8 p.m., where Milei will attend a staging of Madame Butterfly.  

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Elsewhere on Monday, Kenya and Madagascar secured their first victories of the campaign as Mali were held at home by Central African Republic.

Equatorial Guinea also made it two wins from two, and Guinea-Bissau registered their first group win to kick-start their bid for qualification.

Ivory Coast on track

Christian Kouame put the Elephants ahead on the stroke of half-time, steering in from the middle of the box after Oumar Diakite had a shot saved by Gambia goalkeeper Modou Jobe.

Midfielder Kouame had struck a powerful volley against the crossbar moments before, with a follow-up effort from Brighton winger Simon Adingra cleared off the line.

Seko Fofana made sure of the points in a match played in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, with a fierce long-range strike in the 85th minute.

The West Africans move above Gabon to top Group F on goal difference, having beaten Seychelles 9-0 in their opener on Friday.

Kenya are up to third in the group, three points adrift of the leaders, after a 5-0 win over Seychelles in the Ivorian city of Abidjan.

Michael Olunga scored two goals inside the first six minutes with Masoud Juma netting on the stroke of half-time.

Rooney Onyango and Benson Omala struck in the second half to get Kenya’s campaign back on track after their opening defeat to Gabon.

Mali held at home in Group I

There were two matches in Group I on Monday evening. Leaders Mali were restricted to a 1-1 draw in Bamako by Central African Republic.

Kamory Doumbia put the Malians ahead after 76 minutes but just three minutes later CAR equalised through Geoffrey Kondogbia.

Madagascar are a point behind Mali after a 3-0 win in their away match to Chad which was played in neutral Morocco.

A Njiva Rakotoharimalala double and a late goal from Loic Lapoussin helped Madagascar get their first points after their opening defeat to Ghana.

Comoros, who also have three points, host Ghana on Tuesday.

Former Middlesbrough and Birmingham City man Emilio Nsue guided in a ninth-minute header to give Equatorial Guinea a 1-0 win in their away game against Liberia.

The hosts had Nohan Kenneh sent off in first-half injury time for a second bookable offence and could not find a way back into the contest in Monrovia.

The National Thunder move top of Group H, three points ahead of Tunisia and Malawi, who face each other on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, Guinea-Bissau sealed a 1-0 away victory over Djibouti in Cairo, Egypt, despite having defender Houboulang Mendes dismissed with eight minutes remaining.

Mauro Rodrigues netted the only goal six minutes before the break after pouncing on a poor clearance inside the area, and the West Africans are now on four points in Group A, two behind leaders Egypt.

Africa has a guaranteed nine qualifiers for the 2026 finals in Canada, Mexico and the United States, with all group winners booking a spot at the tournament.

Promising midfielder, Comfort Yeboah scored a belter and forced an own goal in the second half of the game as Ampem Darkoa picked up their first win in their maiden appearance in the competition.

ASFAR Club took an early lead in 15 minutes capitalising on some poor defensive situation.

However, the Techiman-based side looked the better side after conceding the goal and should have equalised the game before the break.

Ampem Darkoa Ladies returned from recess firing from all angles and were rewarded in the 57th minute. Comfort Yeboah struck from just outside the penalty box to beat the Moroccan goalkeeper and draw her side level in the game.

But that was only going to be her first involvement in the goals for the young right-back. She surged forward on the right flank once again in the 62nd minute before her cross was turned into the net by the opposition’s player.

The Ghanaian side took the lead in the game with the own goal from ASFAR and assumed the driving seat with 28 minutes to go.

Joe Nana Adarkwa’s side almost got punished in the 75th minute after goalkeeper Ayishatu miscalculated her steps but the home side on the day was unable to make good use of the opportunity.

The WAFU B champions held their composure and remained calm as they saw off a late charge from ASFAR to pick all three points in Group B.

The Ghanaian side will face AS Mande in their next game on November 9.

This crucial match happened at the Baba Yara Stadium on a Thursday evening, with the Black Stars determined to secure a win that would guarantee their position as group leaders.

The Black Stars began the game with high hopes, but initially struggled to find a breakthrough.

Their optimism took a hit when CAR managed to break the deadlock in the 25th minute.

This unexpected setback tilted the game in favor of the Wild Beasts, leaving the Black Stars searching for answers.

As the Black Stars found it increasingly challenging to create clear-cut goal-scoring opportunities, they turned to the exceptional skills of Mohammed Kudus to level the playing field.

The forward, who plays for West Ham United, exhibited his mastery with a stunning free kick just two minutes before halftime. His perfectly executed curling shot from just outside the 18-yard box left CAR’s goalkeeper, Geoffrey Lembet, with no chance.

The match’s climax came in the 87th minute when Olympique Lyon’s Ernest Nuamah delivered the winning goal, capitalizing on a brilliant assist from Antoine Semenyo. It was a moment of pure magic that sealed the Black Stars’ triumph.

Witness the sheer brilliance of Kudus’ freekick in the video below:

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Rubiales has apologised for the incident which followed Spain’s Women’s World Cup final win on Sunday.

The incident has drawn international criticism with government ministers demanding Rubiales’ resignation.

Hermoso said Union Futpro would “defend my interests” in the matter.

The 33-year-old had initially said on Instagram that she “didn’t like” Rubiales’ actions after the 1-0 win over England, but a statement released later on the player’s behalf defended him.

On Monday, Rubiales said in a video statement that he was “completely wrong”.

In a joint statement with her union and agency on Wednesday, Hermoso said: “My union Futpro, in coordination with my agency TMJ, are taking care of defending my interests and being the interlocutors on this matter.”

The Futpro statement said: “We are working to ensure that acts such as those we have seen never go unpunished, that they are sanctioned and that the exemplary measures are adopted to protect women footballers from actions that we believe are unacceptable.”

Spain’s prime minister Pedro Sanchez has said Rubiales’ actions were an “unacceptable gesture” and that his apology is “not enough”, while Spain’s second deputy prime minister Yolanda Diaz called for his resignation.

Spain’s top-flight women’s league, Liga F, said Rubiales should be disqualified after he “sullied” the World Cup win and created “unprecedented international embarrassment for Spain, Spanish sport and for women’s football in the world”.

The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) has called an extraordinary general assembly for Friday “as a matter of urgency”.

World player’s union Fifpro has requested an investigation into Rubiales’ actions under Fifa’s code of ethics.

Video footage has also circulated online showing Rubiales, who was sitting in the VIP area of the stadium near Fifa president Gianni Infantino and Queen Letizia of Spain, grab his groin as he celebrated the final whistle.

In a Liga F statement confirming it had lodged a complaint with the National Sports Council (CSD) asking for Rubiales’ disqualification, it added: “One of the biggest achievements in Spanish football history was sullied by the shameful behaviour of the highest representative of Spanish football.

“It’s an incident which has entered the history of world sport and, more seriously still, will forever be linked to our national women’s team.”

In his statement Rubiales also said: “It was without bad intention at a time with a lot of excitement. In the moment, we saw it as natural, but outside a commotion has formed.

“I have to apologise, learn from this, and understand that when you are president you have to be more careful.”

Rubiales kissed the Spain forward during the presentation ceremony following the team’s 1-0 win over England in Sunday’s final.

“I didn’t like it,” Hermoso said on Instagram, but a statement released later on her behalf defended Rubiales.

On Monday, Rubiales said: “I was completely wrong, I have to admit it.”

He added: “It was without bad intention at a time with a lot of excitement. In the moment, we saw it as natural, but outside a commotion has formed.

“I have to apologise, learn from this, and understand that when you are president you have to be more careful.”

Rubiales had been criticised by some Spanish government ministers and come under fire on social media.

Spain’s equalities minister Irene Montero said: “It’s a form of sexual violence women suffer on a daily basis.”

Montero added that up to now it had been “invisible” and that it is something “we can’t normalise”.

“We should not assume kissing without consent is something ‘that happens’,” she said.

Spain’s sports minister Miquel Iceta told Spanish public radio it was “unacceptable” for Rubiales to kiss Hermoso, adding: “The first thing he has to do is to give explanations and make apologies, it is the logical and reasonable thing to do.”

In a statement released by the Spanish football federation, following the player’s initial comment about disliking the kiss, Hermoso said the moment was a “natural gesture of affection”.

“It was a totally spontaneous mutual gesture because of the immense joy that winning a World Cup brings,” said the 31-year-old, who is Spain’s all-time leading scorer.

Video footage circulated online after the match also showed Rubiales, who was sat in the VIP area of the stadium near Fifa president Gianni Infantino and Queen Letzia of Spain, grab his groin in as he celebrated the final whistle.

Rubiales’ actions were heavily criticised on social media, with ‘dimision ya’ – ‘resign now’ in English – trending on X, formerly known as Twitter, in Spain.

Rubiales told Spanish broadcaster COPE it was “a kiss between two friends celebrating something” and those who saw it differently were “idiots and stupid people”.

“Let’s ignore them and enjoy the good things,” he added, before offering a different view on Monday.

Spanish newspaper El Pais ran the headline “Jenni didn’t like Rubiales’ kiss, neither did we”.

Spain won the World Cup despite controversy over coach Jorge Vilda, who survived a player revolt to keep his job.

The RFEF said in September 2022 that 15 players had submitted identical emails saying they would not play for Vilda unless “significant” concerns over their “emotional state” and “health” were addressed.

However, the RFEF continued to back Vilda and posted ‘VILDA IN’ on Spain’s official X account after their World Cup triumph.

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Carmona, 23, scored the only goal as Spain beat England to claim the trophy.

The Real Madrid left-back’s father had been fighting a long illness and died on Friday, Reuters reported.

“I know you have been watching me tonight and that you are proud of me. Rest in peace dad,” Carmona wrote on social media.

Carmona included a picture of her kissing her winners’ medal along with the message.

She added: “And without knowing it, I had my star before the game started. I know that you have given me the strength to achieve something unique.”

A gold star is added to the shirt of the winners of a World Cup, above the national team crest, every time they win the trophy.

“The RFEF deeply regrets to announce the death of Olga Carmona’s father,” the Spanish Football Association (RFEF) wrote on social media.

“The footballer learned the sad news after the World Cup final.

“We send our most sincere embrace to Olga and her family in a moment of deep sorrow. We love you, Olga, you are Spanish soccer history.”

Carmona started five of Spain’s seven games at the World Cup.

Spanish media outlet Relevo said her family and friends decided not to tell her so she could focus on the final, with her mother and brothers arriving in Australia on Saturday to support her.

Her club Real Madrid also expressed “condolences and affection for Olga, her relatives and all her loved ones”.

Rubiales was on stage for FIFA’s awards ceremony following the final, along with other dignitaries, including soccer’s world governing body president Gianni Infantino, Spain’s Queen Letizia and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

Video shows Rubiales embracing Hermoso, then putting both hands on her head before kissing her. He then pats her on the back as she walks away.

“Hey, I didn’t like it, eh,” says Hermoso as she apparently answers questions about the incident in an Instagram live video – a clip of which was shared by Spanish journalist Irati Vida on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter.

Later in the Instagram live video – taken in Spain’s locker room – Hermoso fields a question from another woman: “But what were you doing, sis?” The 33-year-old replies: “But what am I supposed to do?”

Asked by Radio Marca about the incident with Hermoso, Rubiales replied: “The kiss with Jenni? There are idiots all over. When two people have a moment of affection without any importance, we can’t listen to idiocy. We’re champions and I stay with that.”

However, Alberto Ortega of the Spanish newspaper El Confidencial posted on X that, “Rubiales taking the trophy from the players to give it to Queen Leticia and kissing Jennifer Hermoso on the mouth is simply disgusting.”

“A new demonstration of the need to suck the camera [be the center of attention] and be the protagonist when it is not his turn,” added Ortega.

Daily Mirror journalist Colin Millar, who writes about European soccer for the British newspaper, described Rubiales’ behavior as “not ok.”

“This the highlight of a footballer’s career and they are highly emotionally charged,” posted Millar on X.

Hermoso wasn’t the only Spanish player kissed by Rubiales in the post-match celebrations.

After other members of Spain’s squad received their medals, video shows Rubiales kissing them on the cheeks as well as holding some of them in his arms.

Another video clip shows Rubiales interrupting a group of Spanish players celebrating, before kissing Olga Carmona, who scored Spain’s winning goal in the 1-0 victory over England, on the cheek.

In footage posted by Spain star Salma Paralluelo in an Instagram Live, Rubiales is pictured entering the dressing room and telling the Spanish players that the RFEF will pay for a trip to Ibiza for them, and that is where he will marry Hermoso.

CNN has reached out to Hermoso’s agent about the incident and also the RFEF’s press officer in Australia for comment, but hadn’t heard back at the time of publication.

The month-long Women’s World Cup concludes on Sunday when England face Spain in the final at Stadium Australia in Sydney (11:00 BST kick-off).

Speaking in Sydney, Infantino said women must “push the door” to equality.

“With men, with Fifa, you will find open doors. Just push the doors,” he added.

With two matches still to play, including Saturday’s third-place play-off between Sweden and Australia (09:00 BST), the Women’s World Cup has been watched by a tournament record 1.85m fans inside stadiums.

“This World Cup generated over $570m (£447m) in revenues, and so we broke even,” said Infantino.

“We didn’t lose any money and we generated the second highest income of any sport, besides of course the men’s World Cup, at a global stage.”

There remains a huge discrepancy in prize money between the men’s and women’s tournaments, with the record $110m (£86.1m) for this World Cup some way short of the $440m (£346m) on offer to teams at last year’s men’s finals in Qatar, where 3.4m fans were in attendance.

“Equal pay in the World Cup? We are going in that direction already,” said Infantino.

“But that would not solve anything. It might be a symbol but it would not solve anything, because it’s one month every four years and it’s a few players out of the thousands and thousands of players.

“We need to keep the momentum.”

He added: “And I say to all the women – and you know I have four daughters, so I have a few at home – that you have the power to change. Pick the right battles. Pick the right fights.

“You have the power to convince us men what we have to do and what we don’t have to do. You do it. Just do it.”

‘Fifa was right’

Infantino said the success of the Women’s World Cup had silenced critics who questioned expanding the tournament to 32 nations.

Concerns were raised that increasing the number of teams from 24 would lead to more one-sided games in Australia and New Zealand.

However, Nigeria, South Africa, Jamaica and Morocco – nations ranked no higher than 40th in the world – advanced past the group stage.

“Fifa was right,” added Infantino.

“We invested one billion US dollars in developing the game all over the world and the women’s game was specifically targeted,” he added.

“We did that in spite of Covid, which impacted us all. Women’s football remained alive even in the most difficult of times. We decided to increase the number of teams at the World Cup to 32.

“I remember when we decided to do [it] that the usual critics, which are less and less, were saying it’s not going to work and the level is too different.

“[They said] there would be 15-0 scores, and it will be bad for women’s football.

“As it happens quite often in the last years, Fifa was right once more. We had eight debutants. We had many countries around the world who thought suddenly they had a chance to participate.”

Japan were seen as title contenders after gliding through the group stage and defeating Norway in the last 16.

Here, they fell behind to Amanda Ilestedt’s goal before Manchester City midfielder Filippa Angeldahl doubled Sweden’s lead from the penalty spot.

Japan were awarded a controversial penalty, but Riko Ueki’s 76th-minute attempt hit the bar, before West Ham’s Honoka Hayashi pulled a goal back in the 87th minute.

That lifeline came moments after Aoba Fujino hit the woodwork from a free-kick, but Sweden saw the game out to make it into the last four.

New Arsenal defender Ilestedt has emerged as one of the players of the tournament, and she now has four goals.

She struck from the edge of the six-yard box in the 32nd minute after Japan failed to clear.

Goalkeeper Ayaka Yamashita kept Japan in the contest when she tipped an attempt by Sweden captain Kosovare Asllani onto the post, while Stina Blackstenius had earlier missed a glorious chance when the game was goalless.

There looked to be no coming back for Japan when Angeldahl doubled the lead from the spot after the video assistant referee (VAR) spotted a handball by Japan’s Liverpool midfielder Fuka Nagano.

Japan have shone at this World Cup, scoring 14 times in their previous four matches.

But they struggled to test Sweden keeper Zecira Musovic enough at Eden Park as Sweden moved to within one win of a first World Cup final since 2003 when they lost to Germany in the final in the United States.

James, 21, was sent off for stamping on the back of Michelle Alozie in the last 16-tie, which England won on penalties.

The dismissal came with an automatic one-game ban which Fifa has increased, meaning she will miss the semi-final if England get there.

The Lionesses face Colombia in the quarter-finals on Saturday (11:30 BST).

James is England’s top scorer in the tournament, having scored three goals, as well as assisting three more, in the group stages.

The Chelsea forward apologised to Alozie on social media after the incident and promised to learn from her mistake.

After the game, England boss Sarina Wiegman said: “She is inexperienced on this stage and in a split-second lost her emotions. It isn’t something she did on purpose. She apologised and felt really bad.

“She would never want to hurt someone. She is the sweetest person I know.”

If the Lionesses are knocked out of the World Cup on Saturday, James’ ban will carry over to England’s next international fixture.

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European champions England overcame Nigeria on penalties to progress and they face Colombia in the last eight on Saturday, 12 August.

Also aiming to reach the semi-finals are co-hosts Australia and former champions Japan, while France and Spain are both looking strong as they aim to win the tournament for the first time.

Here’s how all eight teams are shaping up.

Australia

Quarter-final opponents: France (Saturday, 12 August, 08:00 BST)

World Cup 2023 top scorer: Hayley Raso (three goals)

The World Cup co-hosts are looking to make history by progressing beyond the quarter-finals for the first time, and they’ve been looking stronger as the tournament has gone on.

Australia followed up an eye-catching 4-0 win against Canada in their final group game with a comfortable 2-0 victory against Denmark.

The big boost for them as they head deeper into the tournament is the return to fitness of star player Sam Kerr, who played her first minutes of the World Cup when she came on as a second-half substitute against Denmark.

Former England and Arsenal defender Alex Scott on BBC One: “Australia have the momentum, and there are plenty of positive to take from that game [against Denmark].

“The main one is the poster girl Sam Kerr got minutes ahead of the next game.”

Key stat: Australia have kept a clean sheet in consecutive Fifa Women’s World Cup matches for the first time, after 30 games in the competition. They have kept more clean sheets at this edition (3) than they had managed across their previous seven participations combined (2 in 26 games).

Colombia

Quarter-final opponents: England (Saturday, 12 August, 11:00 BST)

World Cup 2023 top scorer: Linda Caicedo, Catalina Usme (both two goals)

The group stage saw the rise of the underdogs as some unfancied teams claimed unexpected results against traditional World Cup heavyweights.

Colombia have certainly been one of the surprise packages so far as the South Americans beat Germany and South Korea during the group stage and then overcame Jamaica in the last 16.

They are in unknown territory – with this the furthest they have been at a Women’s World Cup – and they face a tough test against England, but their mix of impressive youth and experience means they cannot be underestimated.

Former England defender Gilly Flaherty on BBC Radio 5 Live Sports Extra: “I think England need to be very wary of Ramirez and Caicedo. They are two top players.

“In general Colombia are very physical and they aren’t afraid to get their foot stuck in.”

Key stat: “75% of Colombia’s overall wins at the Fifa Women’s World Cup have come at this edition (3/4). Prior to the 2023 tournament, Colombia had won just one of their seven games in the competition (2011 & 2015 – D2 L4).”

England

Quarter-final opponents: Colombia (Saturday, 12 August, 11:00 BST)

World Cup 2023 top scorer: Lauren James (three goals)

England are looking to build on their European Championship triumph last year by winning the Women’s World Cup for the first time.

The Lionesses improved after a slow start to the tournament, thrashing China 6-1 in their final group game, but they were far from their best as they scraped past Nigeria in the last 16.

They did come out on top in a penalty shoot-out to win that game, so that will give them confidence for similar situations going forward, but lost three-goal top scorer Lauren James to suspension after she was sent off.

Keira Walsh returns, however, and that will boost England’s hopes of reaching the quarter-finals.

Anita Asante, former England defender on BBC Radio 5 Live: “England are very lucky to have progressed to the quarter-finals and they definitely need to step up performances if they want to get all the way to a final.”

Key stat: “England have had 71 separate sequences of 10+ passes at this year’s Fifa Women’s World Cup, more than any other side.”

France

Quarter-final opponents: Australia (Saturday, 12 August, 08:00 BST)

World Cup 2023 top scorer: Kadidiatou Diani (four goals)

Could this finally be France’s year?

They’ve often had the quality but their best result so far is a fourth-place finish in 2011.

The quarter-finals is as far as they’ve got in each of the past two Women’s Word Cup but they are looking strong under Herve Renard at this tournament.

They are unbeaten so far, finishing top of Group F with a draw and two wins – including beating Brazil – and they thrashed Morocco 4-0 in the last 16.

Anita Asante, former England defender on BBC One: “France have shown that they have developed relationships within this tournament, and rhythm in their play.”

Key stat: “France allow just 5.3 opposition passes on average for each defensive intervention they make, the lowest figure of any of the remaining eight sides.”

Japan

Quarter-final opponent: Sweden (Friday, 11 August, 08:30 BST)

World Cup 2023 top scorer: Hinata Miyazawa (five goals)

Japan won the Women’s World Cup in 2011 and went close to replicating that four years later, but ultimately finished as runners-up.

At the last World Cup they went out in the last 16 having managed to win just one of their four games but they are a team in form, with a 100% record so far at this tournament.

They have scored 14 goals, conceding just one, and in and Hinata Miyazawa they possess the World Cup’s leading scorer. On their showing so far, they are going to take some stopping.

Eniola Aluko, former England forward on ITV1: “These Japan players are at the height of their confidence – the chemistry, the flow, the timing. They are really looking like an unbeatable team – how do you stop them now?”

Key stat: “Japan have made 49 passes that have broken the opposition’s defensive line at this tournament, the most of any side.”

Netherlands

Quarter-final opponent: Spain (Friday, 11 August, 02:00 BST)

World Cup 2023 top scorer: Jill Roord (four goals)

The Netherlands are bidding for their first Women’s World Cup trophy and will determined to go one better than they did four years ago, when they finished runners-up.

They are unbeaten in their last six games and have been in fine form so far at this tournament, finishing top of a group that continued the USA, who are the only team to have scored against them so far.

Their last-16 match saw them beat South Africa 2-0 and their impressive defence sets them up well against free-scoring Spain.

Key stat: The Netherlands have forced 85 turnovers high up the pitch, the most of any team in the competition, ahead of opponents Spain (74). Of those 85 high turnovers, 15 have resulted in a shot and three have resulted in a goal – both of which are also tournament highs.

Spain

Quarter-final opponent: Netherlands (Friday, 11 August, 02:00 BST)

World Cup 2023 top scorer: Aitana Bonmati, Jennifer Hermoso, Alba Redondo (three goals)

Spain got their Women’s World Cup campaign off to a flyer with 3-0 and 5-0 wins against Costa Rica and Zambia respectively but a 4-0 thrashing at the hands of Japan served as a bit of a reality check for the Spanish.

They responded to that final group game loss by thumping Switzerland 5-1 and with two-time Ballon d’Or winner Alexia Putellas getting back to full fitness, they will undoubtedly give the Netherlands plenty to think about in what promises to be one of the standout games of the quarter-finals.

Laura Georges, former France international on BBC One: “Against Switzerland, it was the Spain that we know – that like to keep the ball, move around, work together as a team.

“The difference between this Spain against Switzerland and the Spain we saw against Japan was that they were really precise with the ball, really accurate and really clinical in front of goal. That made the difference.”

Key stat: Spain have initiated their open play sequences at an average of 53 metres from their own goal at the Women’s World Cup, the highest up the pitch of any team.

Sweden

Quarter-final opponents: Japan (Friday, 11 August, 08:30 BST)

World Cup 2023 top scorer: Amanda Ilestedt (three goals)

The USA may not have been at their best at this Women’s Word Cup but for Sweden to see off the world number one team and defending champions in the last 16 is a very eye-catching result.

They certainly rode their luck at times but Zecira Musovic produced some hugely impressive saves that saw her named the player of the match, and she could be the difference once again if Sweden are to overcome Japan.

Sweden beat England at the 2019 World Cup to finish third, and they will be hoping to reach the final this time.

Fran Kirby, England forward on ITV1: “I don’t think Sweden deserved it [to beat the USA], they didn’t create anything and the USA were the better team. But ultimately it’s about winning.”

Key stat: Sweden have scored three goals from corners where the first contact was a goal – no other team has scored more than one goal in this manner.

The Super Falcons were eliminated from the tournament in Australia and New Zealand on Monday after losing a penalty shootout against England in a last-16 tie in Brisbane.

In a statement released on Tuesday, Fifpro said: “During the World Cup, the players expressed the desire to remain focused on their performance without making public statements or facing other distractions.

“However, the Super Falcons believe that it is now time for the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to honour their commitments and pay the outstanding amounts”.

A long-running dispute

The Super Falcons are Africa’s most successful international women’s side, having won the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (Wafcon) nine times and also qualified for all nine Women’s World Cups.

Yet this is far from the first time they have found themselves at loggerheads with their federation over money, with disputes dating back to 2004.

More recently, at the 2019 World Cup in France, they staged a sit-in protest following a second-round defeat to Germany, while players boycotted training before the nation’s third-place play-off at last year’s Wafcon in Morocco.

At the time, a special adviser to then-minister of sports Sunday Dare said the “issues are being resolved” and verbal assurances were given to the squad.

But a month later, BBC Sport Africa was told players were still waiting.

Before this World Cup, American coach Randy Waldrum claimed he was owed seven months’ salary and some of his players had not been paid for two years.

Fifpro said it was “extremely frustrating” the issue had continued before, during and after the tournament, adding that it was “regrettable that players needed to challenge their own federation at such an important time in their careers.”

‘Players will receive their money’

This year, for the first time at a Women’s World Cup, players are receiving individual payments direct from organisers Fifa.

Nigeria’s women will each receive $60,000 for reaching the second round, as well as being entitled to a $100 daily allowance.

The direct payments have caused disagreements between several teams and their national administrations, including England’s Lionesses, with some federations saying the Fifa money effectively counts as a performance-related bonus.

Reacting to the Fifpro statement, a top NFF official played down the row, insisting payment arrangements were put in place long before the defeat against England.

“Everything agreed with the Super Falcons [for the World Cup] is on paper and will be respected,” he told BBC Sport Africa.

“Any outstanding payments owed to the players will definitely be looked into by the federation.

“Fifa is expected to reach out to the NFF and other federations about the World Cup payments and the players will receive their money as agreed.

“This team left a huge mark at the tournament against the European champions and it is unfair to dampen it with any form of negativity.”

Whether this latest financial dispute can be brought to a satisfactory conclusion remains to be seen, but Fifpro says it will continue to work to ensure “contractual rights are honoured and outstanding payments settled”.

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The countries’ record goalscorer Eugenie Le Sommer scored twice, with Kadidatou Diani and Kenza Dali also netting.

Morocco held firm in the early stages but France were relentless in their hunt for an opener and found it through Diani after 15 minutes.

Another two goals in the next eight minutes from Le Sommer and Aston Villa’s Dali put

Harve Ranard’s side in a commanding position before the half-hour mark.

Le Sommer added a fourth in the second half to confirm France’s spot in the quarter-final, where they will play co-hosts Australia.

Morocco defended well, to begin with, but could only put up with so much of France’s non-stop pressure in attack.

Renard’s side were dangerous down both flanks but the first goal came from the left.

Full-back Sakina Karchaoui drove down the touchline before dinking a pinpoint delivery across the six-yard box for Diani – who was completely unmarked – to nod home from close range.

France quickly doubled their advantage with a great move that started with captain Wendie Renard from the back. The Lyon defender found Dali who slipped the ball to Diani on the right. Diani cut inside and returned a pass for Dali, just inside the box, who steered the ball into the far bottom corner.

Les Bleus had the game sewn up three minutes later when Le Sommer made it three. Pressure paid off for Diani who chased down Nesryne El Chad in the box, who looked to have the danger covered, but the striker stole possession before squaring the ball to Le Sommer to finish coolly.

Morocco would have needed a miracle if they were to get back into the game, and they started the second half brightly when Ibtissam Jraidi and Sakina Ouzraoui saw efforts go wide in their first chances of the game.

But any hopes of a comeback were ended when Le Sommer added a fourth in the 70th minute, heading in substitute Vicki Becho’s perfect cross at the back post.

Colombia will take on England in what will be their first-ever quarter-finals appearance.

It was a cagey first half that saw a lot of fouls from both teams. With neither side being able to keep possession for long, and an abundance of turnovers, the match was very stop-start.

Colombia, who had the better chances, looked most threatening from set-pieces, with Leicy Santos delivering good balls, forcing two saves from Rebecca Spencer, who had kept a clean sheet in all of Jamaica’s group stage matches.

Bunny Shaw saw a header from a corner go wide but struggled during open play, with the Colombia defenders successfully crowding her out.

The match opened up a lot more in the second half, and it rewarded Colombia, whose opener came in the 51st minute.

Ana Guzman, 18, who was making her Colombia senior debut, supplied a fantastic switch of play from left to right, lifting her pass to Usme. The No. 11 managed to take a touch to evade Jamaica’s Deneisha Blackwood and curled the ball across the goal and straight into the corner.

Jamaica had chances to equalise from set pieces, but their deliveries were often over-hit, and they became too frantic as the clock winded down. They leave the World Cup having only scored and conceded once in their four matches.

The Matildas, who were rarely troubled in Sydney, were arguably far from their best, but put in a solid display that outlines why some are describing them as dark horses for the title.

The Danes started brightly, with Pernille Harder having two low shots saved, but they found themselves behind against the run of play when Caitlin Foord calmly slotted home from Mary Fowler’s pass.

That seemed to knock the stuffing out of Lars Sondergaard’s side, who struggled to find the same attacking rhythm they had shown earlier in the game and provided no response before half-time.

Chances remained few and far between after the break, and although Harder had another low effort saved by Mackenzie Arnold, Denmark had completely lost their rhythm.

The game was finally put to bed when Australia got their second with 19 minutes left, as Hayley Raso fired clinically into the bottom corner from inside the area.

There was even time late on for Tony Gustavsson to bring on Chelsea star Sam Kerr, who was introduced for the tournament for the first time since picking up a calf injury in mid-July. She helped her side comfortably see out the remaining 10 minutes and progress to a quarter-final against either France or Morocco.

Despite the first penalty-taker, Georgia Stanway, firing wide, Nigeria missed their next two efforts and the European champions secured their spot in the last eight when Chloe Kelly smashed in the winning kick.

In an outburst of frustration, James stamped on Michelle Alozie’s back in the 87th minute after losing possession and was rightly shown a red card following a video assistant referee (VAR) review.

England were given an almighty scare but face Colombia or Jamaica next at 11:30 BST on Saturday.

It was an excruciating watch for England supporters in Brisbane as England played 120 minutes on a knife’s edge and were largely second best to Nigeria.

James’ petulance meant England had to navigate extra time with 10 players, and Nigeria had their tails up following a sustained period of pressure prior to the Chelsea star’s sending-off.

The nine-time African champions executed their game plan to perfection, frustrating England, causing them problems on the break and winning almost every duel.

They hit the crossbar in each half, Ashleigh Plumptre’s powerful drive ricocheting off the woodwork before Uchenna Kanu’s header looped over goalkeeper Mary Earps and bounced off the top of the bar.

Earps was kept busy throughout, needing to produce smart saves to deny Plumptre at her near post in the first half and later keeping out Uchenna Kanu, who had an excellent performance.

Sarina Wiegman’s England side thought they had a penalty in the first half when Rachel Daly went down claiming a push by Rasheedat Ajibade, but it was overturned by VAR.

Eventually, England stumbled to the end of normal time lacking the fluidity they showed in abundance in the impressive display against China and held on to seal the deal in a shootout.

Only 24 hours earlier, back-to-back champions the USA were knocked out of the competition, and England were forced to show resilience to overcome one of their most challenging matches of Wiegman’s tenure.

USA dominated the 120 minutes but were denied by an inspired goalkeeping performance from Zecira Musovic as the match finished goalless.

The drama only ratcheted up further in the shootout. Three USA players missed, including their footballing icon Megan Rapinoe on her last appearance on the world stage, before Sweden won in remarkable circumstances.

USA keeper Alyssa Naeher appeared to have saved Lina Hurtig’s effort at the second attempt, having pushed the initial effort up before clawing it out.

But after checking with the video assistant referee (VAR), referee Stephanie Frappart awarded the goal and sparked wild Sweden celebrations.

USA manager Vlatko Andonovski was not convinced the ball had crossed the line, despite technology confirming the goal.

“It’s a tough moment,” he said. “It’s a moment where it’s hard to go through, where you hope it didn’t cross the line. I see pictures and I still can’t see it now, but proves how cruel this game can be.”

Sweden go through to face Japan in the quarter-finals.

They were indebted to Musovic, who made 11 saves in a game where the USA looked more like the team which won the World Cup in 2015 and 2019 than the one which snuck through the group stage.

But they could not score and in the shootout Rapinoe, Sophia Smith and Kelley O’Hara all missed, Rapinoe with what is her final action at a World Cup as she has announced she will retire at the end of the year.

It condemns the USA to their worst performance at the tournament. They had never previously failed to make it to the semi-finals.

Jill Roord, Manchester City’s new club record signing, nodded the Dutch ahead in the ninth minute but South Africa went close to equalising several times against the 2019 runners-up.

Banyana Banyana captain Thembi Kgatlana was once again a real handful and forced four fine saves from Daphne van Domselaar, Aston Villa’s new goalkeeper, at Sydney Football Stadium.

Lineth Beerensteyn doubled the lead after a mistake by South Africa keeper Kaylin Swart in the second half.

The Netherlands will return to New Zealand to face Spain in Wellington next Friday (02:00 BST) for a place in the semi-finals.

Another lightning start

The Dutch are two wins from reaching back-to-back finals after another lightning start to a game at this tournament.

Roord’s early header, after Lieke Martens had been denied by a clearance off the line, was the sixth time they have scored inside 20 minutes.

Their second goal was a gift, Swart allowing a seemingly routine shot by the recalled Beerensteyn to slip through her grasp and into the net.

It was a horrible moment for the keeper but it secured the Dutch their third win of the tournament.

They have had a near-perfect World Cup so far and were only denied victory over four-time world champions the United States by Lindsey Horan’s equaliser.

Andries Jonker, the former assistant to Louis van Gaal at Bayern Munich and Barcelona, has been tasked with going one step further than the last World Cup when Sarina Wiegman’s side were defeated 2-0 by the United States in France.

They head into the quarter-finals in fine form and with Spain in their sights.

South Africa bow out with heads high

Banyana Banyana are heading home but they have certainly left an impression at this World Cup.

Their players have brought joy with their dancing and singing before and after games, while on the pitch their exciting fast-paced attacking play has entertained fans.

And all this despite a dispute with their national association. South Africa’s players will receive $50,000 each from Fifa for reaching the last 16, but nothing from the South Africa Football Association (SAFA).

Despite this, they have been a joy to watch with their late win over Italy in their final group game sending them into the knockout stage for the first time.

South Africa went toe-to-toe with the Netherlands despite losing Jermaine Seoposenwe and Bambanani Mbane to injury before half-time.

The impressive Kgatlana has caused huge problems with her pace at this World Cup, scoring two and assisting another two goals, and she was once again dangerous against the Dutch.

The 27-year-old had five of South Africa’s seven attempts on target in this match but found herself frustrated by Van Domselaar.

Will Banyana Banyana be back in 2027?

South Africa are aiming to host the next Women’s World Cup. Their presence at the 2023 has certainly added fun to the tournament and they will be missed.

La Roja were beaten 4-0 in their final group game by Japan five days earlier in Wellington but bounced back in style to score four times during a dominant first-half showing in front of 43,217 – a record crowd for a football match in New Zealand.

Aitana Bonmati swept the Spanish ahead before Switzerland equalised when Laia Codina, without looking up, hit a back pass past her own keeper and into the net from 10 yards inside her own half.

Spain soon restored their lead through Alba Redondo’s header before Barcelona midfielder Bonmati produced a classy finish to make it 3-1.

In an incredible opening half, Codina made up for her own goal by adding Spain’s fourth after a scramble inside the box.

Spain have scored 13 goals in four games at the Women’s World Cup

They added another after half-time through Jennifer Hermoso’s clinical finish – her third goal of this tournament.

Jorge Vilda’s side are the first to reach the last eight and will play the winners of Sunday’s match between the Netherlands and South Africa in the quarter-finals in Wellington next Friday (02:00 BST).

Spain hit back after Japan defeat

Spain produced the perfect response after being written off following the 4-0 hammering against Japan.

Boss Vilda promised a response from his players after that comprehensive defeat and he got one as the side ranked sixth in the world got the job done before half-time in Auckland.

Vilda responded to the Japan defeat by making five changes, giving a debut to goalkeeper Cata Coll in place of first-choice Misa Rodriguez, who had started the previous three games in New Zealand.

Coll will not have appreciated the wild back pass by her Barcelona team-mate Codina.

That aside, this was a highly impressive performance for a team that came into this World Cup with a cloud of doubt hanging over the squad after a feud between Vilda and many senior players.

Those differences have been put aside for now and Spain look like a team playing in harmony. This was their third win in four games in New Zealand.

Spain enjoyed 70% possession against Switzerland, the highest possession rate of any team in a knockout game at the last four editions of the Women’s World Cup

One step too far for Switzerland

This was one game too many for Group A winners Switzerland, who had qualified for the knockout stage despite winning one game out of the three and scoring two goals in 270 minutes.

Ten of the starting XI at Eden Park were starting their fourth game after three successive clean sheets yet they were overwhelmed by their opponents.

Swiss boss Inka Grings had said that finding goals was a priority in training yet they struggled to trouble Spain’s defence and registered just one attempt on target.

They head home from their second Fifa Women’s World Cup having topped a group containing Norway, co-hosts New Zealand and the Philippines.

Having required a 121st-minute winner in a play-off against Wales in Zurich to qualify, their World Cup ended in disappointing fashion, with their players looking crestfallen as they walked around the pitch applauding fans after full time.

“My team has invested everything at this tournament and I am very proud of them,” said Grings.

“There is nothing I would change and I would select the same players again. There is nothing my players did wrong. They played a really good tournament. Maybe we should have been more defensive against Spain.”

This was Switzerland’s heaviest-ever defeat at the Fifa Women’s World Cup and saw them concede as many goals as they had across all their seven previous games at the tournament

The Round of 16 fixtures was confirmed following the conclusion of the group stage games on Thursday.

African representative Morocco defeated Colombia 1-0, while South Korea drew 1-1 with Germany.

This means that both Colombia and Morocco now join other 14 countries including the likes of Nigeria, South Africa, Japan, Spain, Sweden, United States, France, Australia, Netherlands, Norway and Switzerland in the Round of 16 stages.

The Round of 16 fixtures will take place on Saturday, Sunday, Monday and Tuesday, respectively.

Round of 16 fixtures:

Switzerland vs Spain – Saturday

Japan vs Norway – Saturday,

Netherlands vs South Africa – Sunday

Sweden vs United States – Sunday

England vs Nigeria – Monday

Australia vs Denmark – Monday

Colombia vs Jamaica – Tuesday

France vs Morocco – Tuesday

Germany’s failure to beat South Korea means Morocco are into the knockout rounds as runners-up.

Anissa Lahmari scored the only goal via a rebound after captain Ghizlane Chebbak’s penalty was saved.

Morocco – who lost 6-0 to the Germans in their opener before successive wins – will face France in Adelaide next.

Colombia, who earned two wins in their first two matches and finish above Morocco on goal difference, will play Jamaica in Melbourne earlier on 8 August.

Debutants Morocco make history

Of the eight debutants at the 2023 Women’s World Cup, seven had already exited the tournament before this match. Only Philippines, by beating co-hosts New Zealand, and Portugal in giving the USA a mighty scare, had come close to reaching the knockout stage.

Step forward Morocco. Reynaud Pedros’ side have recovered from their World Cup debut hammering to put in two impressive performances against South Korea and Colombia, and earn historic passage to the last 16.

They started brightly here – Ibtissam Jraidi’s third-minute shot was turned behind by Catalina Perez at near post, before Chebbak almost caught the keeper out from a well-worked corner – and continued to look the more threatening side until they took the lead.

Jraidi was bundled over clumsily in the area by Daniela Arias, and though Chebbak’s spot-kick was saved by Perez, the rebound was turned in by Lahmari.

As Germany tried and failed to find a winner against South Korea, Morocco stood sturdy to earn a remarkable and unexpected path into the knockouts.

At Qatar 2022, the Morocco men’s team became the first African side to reach a Fifa World Cup semi-final. The country is now seeing a second historic football achievement in the space of a year.

It is the first time in Germany’s history they have failed to reach the knockout stages.

One of the pre-tournament favourites, Germany knew they needed to better Morocco’s result against Colombia to progress in Group H, but that match finished 1-0 to Morocco.

An early goal by South Korea’s Cho So-hyun shook the Euro 2022 finalists in Brisbane, but captain Alexandra Popp netted her fourth goal in three matches to equalise shortly before half-time.

Germany were heading through as group runners-up as they went off the pitch for the break, but Morocco stunned Colombia to score minutes later in Perth, meaning Martina Voss-Tecklenburg’s side had to win.

Popp was their best hope of scoring again and she almost did, thumping a header off the crossbar minutes after she had bundled it over the line, only for the video assistant referee to confirm it was offside.

The Wolfsburg striker came close again later when she sent a free header wide of the post, roaring in frustration as the minutes ticked away for Germany.

During stoppage time Germany sent countless crosses into South Korea’s box to no avail as substitute Sydney Lohmann struck wide and sent another effort inches over the bar.

Germany’s players fell to the ground at full-time and were in tears as they were consoled by staff members.

South Korea finish bottom of the group, having lost their first two matches.

Colombia face Jamaica on Tuesday at 09:00 BST in the last 16, while Morocco take on France at 12:00.

It was a cagey encounter in Melbourne and Jamaica put in a stubborn defensive display to ensure their impressive tournament still has another chapter.

But Brazil, who recalled striker Marta to the starting XI, could not find the goal they needed and failed to progress for the first time in 28 years.

Marta, 37, is the all-time leading scorer in men’s or women’s World Cups but will not feature again, with her sixth tournament in Australia coming to an end having made three group-stage appearances.

After this goalless stalemate, Jamaica could face Colombia or Germany in the last 16, while France go through as Group F winners following their victory over Panama in the other match.

With first place essentially guaranteed thanks to a vastly superior goal difference, Sweden made nine changes in Hamilton and lacked the cohesion of their first two games but still had too much for their opponents.

After a fiercely contested hour, Sweden’s extra quality shone through, with Rebecka Blomqvist finding space in the box to power home Sofia Jakobsson’s cross from close range.

Elin Rubensson put the result beyond doubt with a coolly taken late penalty after Blomqvist had been fouled in the box as Argentina sought to defend a free-kick.

Argentina depart the tournament having finished bottom of the group with one point.

They battled hard here but were unable to hurt the Swedes and claim what would have been a historic double at a World Cup finals – a maiden win and progression to the knockout rounds for the first time.

South Africa join the Swedes in the last 16 after winning 3-2 against Italy in a dramatic game in Wellington.

Thembi Kgatlana’s 92nd-minute winner proved the difference after Italy fought back to level with an Arianna Caruso header.

A draw would have been enough to take Italy into the knockout rounds.

South Africa will play Group E winners the Netherlands on Sunday.

After earning a first World Cup point in their 2-2 draw with Argentina, South Africa have shown significant progress from their debut appearance at the tournament in 2019, when they lost all three group matches.

There were scenes of jubilation for the South Africa players when the final whistle confirmed they had made history for their nation.

With a win certain to guarantee their place in the knockout rounds, Italy got off to the perfect start when they were awarded a penalty as Karabo Dhlamini caught the heels of teenager Chiara Beccari.

Referee Maria Carvajal awarded a free-kick, but a swift video assistant referee intervention concluded the foul had been committed inside the penalty area and Caruso calmly converted from the spot to put Italy in command of their World Cup future.

However, South Africa were gifted a leveller as Benedetta Orsi, playing her first World Cup match, was left red-faced when she hit a no-look back pass to an unexpectant Francesca Durante and it rolled into her own net.

Desiree Ellis’ side burst into the lead when Kgatlana slipped a clever ball through the Italy defence to put Hildah Magaia through on goal and she lifted it over Durante.

VAR seemed like it may have come to South Africa’s rescue when Caruso equalised from a corner, but after a lengthy delay the goal was given.

Italy hearts were broken when Magaia stepped through the defence and squared it Kgatlana, who made no mistake in finding the back of the net.

Hayley Raso scored twice, Mary Fowler was also on target and Steph Catley netted a late penalty as the co-hosts impressed in a game they had to win to avoid elimination.

The Matildas finished top of Group B – and did so without Sam Kerr, an unused sub despite declaring herself fit.

Canada suffered their first Women’s World Cup group-stage exit since 2011.

Nigeria’s draw with the Republic of Ireland means Australia will go forward to face the runners-up in Group D – who could still be England – at Stadium Australia in Sydney on 7 August.

The result, coupled with Australia’s win over Canada, meant the Super Falcons, the lowest-ranked side in Group B, qualified in second place at the expense of the Olympic champions.

The Irish were already knocked out after defeats by Australia and Canada but collected their first point at a World Cup in their final match of the tournament.

In a low-key encounter in Brisbane, the Nigerians came closest to making the breakthrough when Courtney Brosnan pushed Uchenna Kanu’s header on to the crossbar with a stunning save.

Nigeria will face the winners of Group D in Brisbane, which could be England if they draw with or beat China on Tuesday.

The Republic’s pre-match build-up had been dominated by the future of manager Vera Pauw, whose contract is up after the tournament and the Dutch manager felt both she and her players deserved clarity on her position.

On the pitch, it was a cagey first half in Brisbane, where both sides struggled to keep hold of possession and the Republic of Ireland had the first chance when Katie McCabe fired wide after some good build-up play by Sinead Farrelly and the returning Heather Payne.

The Irish support dominated the crowd in Brisbane but it was the pockets of Australian fans who had something to cheer when Hayley Raso opened the scoring for the Matildas in Melbourne.

Knowing a draw would be enough to progress, Nigeria were content to sit deep in their own half but the Super Falcons almost took the lead when Louise Quinn gave the ball away and Asisat Oshoala raced clear, but the Barcelona forward could only fire wide when most in the stadium expected the net to bulge.

Ireland, whose first World Cup goal came courtesy of captain McCabe against Canada, looked the more likely side to break the deadlock and came close but Payne’s cross was just too far for the outstretched leg of Farrelly.

Striker Kyra Carusa headed into the arms of Nigeria captain Chimaka Nnadozie, while Nigeria were restricted to long-range efforts from Toni Payne.

The mood in Brisbane was further lifted before half-time when Raso scored Australia’s second goal, which gave Nigeria breathing room in their quest to make the next round.

Lushomo Mweemba opened the scoring for Zambia inside the first three minutes and Barbra Banda added a second from the spot midway through the first half.

Costa Rica’s Melissa Herrera pulled a goal shortly after the break, but Racheal Kundananji completed the win, netting a third in injury time.

Both sides had already been eliminated after two matches.

Zambia had lost 5-0 against both Japan and Spain, but their campaign at least ends on a high.

They made a brilliant start in Hamilton as Mweemba scored their first World Cup goal, volleying home Avell Chitundu’s corner after two minutes and 11 seconds.

Skipper Banda doubled their advantage from the spot – the 1000th goal in the Women’s World Cup – after her shirt was pulled by Katherine Alvarado in the penalty area.

Costa Rica, who were also chasing a first World Cup win in just their second tournament, rallied and struck the crossbar through Maria Paula Coto just before the break.

After the restart Amelia Valverde’s team halved the deficit with Herrera nodding in Valeria del Campo’s header across goal.

An equaliser seemed inevitable with Zambian keeper Catherine Musonda catching Priscilla Chinchilla in the box, but a lengthy video assistant referee review ruled out a penalty kick due to an offside in the build-up.

Herrera then found the net for a second time midway through the second half, but her strike from a tight angle was ruled out for offside.

With Costa Rica pushing for an equaliser, Banda’s disguised pass sent through substitute Kundananji who sealed a famous win.

Zambia finished third in Group C, ahead of Costa Rica in fourth.

The 2011 world champions made it look easy as they scored three times before half-time, with Hinata Miyazawa getting two to take her tally to four goals and become the tournament’s leading scorer.

The attacking midfielder put Japan ahead with a calm finish after Spain’s defence had been exposed, before Riko Uek doubled the lead with a deflected finish which looped into the net.

Miyazawa, who scored two in Japan’s opening group game against Zambia, made it 3-0 by firing across goal and into the net in front of a crowd of 20,957.

Substitute Mina Tanaka added to Spain’s pain with a fourth goal in the 83rd minute.

Japan started the third and final group game trailing Spain on goal difference after both teams had made 100% winning starts in New Zealand.

Japan will stay in Wellington, where they will meet Norway, the 1995 world champions, on Saturday at 09:00 BST.

Group runners-up Spain head to Auckland, where they will play Switzerland at Eden Park on Saturday at 06:00 BST.

New Zealand began the day in second position in the group, but Norway moved above them thanks to a convincing 6-0 victory over the Philippines.

Jacqueline Hand hit the post for New Zealand but they could not get the win they needed to stay in the competition.

They become the first host nation to fail to make it past the group phase.

It was a tame and disappointing end to the tournament for New Zealand, who had beaten Norway 1-0 in the World Cup’s opening match.

A shock 1-0 loss on Tuesday in Wellington against the Philippines, the lowest-ranked nation in Group A, left New Zealand’s qualification in the balance, although their fate was still in their hands before their final match in Dunedin.

But, in a game, they needed to win, they failed to have a single shot on target in the opening 70 minutes against Switzerland.

With the Europeans themselves only one goal away from elimination, it became tight and tense with neither side able to create many clear-cut opportunities.

Ibtissam Jraidi scored Morocco’s first World Cup goal with a sixth-minute header as the north Africans, ranked 72nd in the world, stunned their 17th-ranked opponents.

Sixteen-year-old substitute Casey Phair fired wide for South Korea late on.

Morocco defender Nouhaila Benzina made history by becoming the first player to wear a hijab at a World Cup.

“We are just so pleased our efforts have paid off. This victory is for Morocco and Arabs, it’s the fruit of our hard work,” said Jraidi.

South Korea have now lost both matches and will be eliminated if Germany avoid defeat against Colombia on Sunday.

Morocco lost 6-0 to Germany in their first match in Group H, but were much better against South Korea.

There was only one shot on target in the first half, with Jraidi scoring with a diving header following Hanane Ait Elhaj’s cross for Morocco’s first-ever goal at the tournament.

South Korea, managed by Englishman Colin Bell, performed better in the second half, but could not find an equaliser.

Ji So-yun had a good chance with a central free-kick just outside the penalty area in the 82nd minute, but her effort did not clear the Morocco defensive wall.

Phair, who became the youngest player to ever play in a Fifa Women’s World Cup match when she came on in the 2-0 loss to Colombia, failed to hit the target with a late chance.

Morocco coach Reynald Pedros said: “There’s a sense of pride for us to pull this first World Cup win out of the bag.

“We didn’t change our philosophy. The Korean team is not like the German team and we got off to a blinding start.

“We were efficient in the box, that was missing against Germany.”

Linda Caicedo netted a wondergoal to give the South Americans the lead, before Germany equalised with an 89th-minute Alexandra Popp penalty.

Vanegas then headed Leicy Santos’ corner past Merle Frohms to send the vast numbers of Colombia supporters at Sydney Football Stadium wild.

It condemned Germany to a first World Cup group stage defeat since 1995.

A manic ending came after Caicedo, 18, had brilliantly curled into the top corner on 53 minutes to shock the two-time world champions.

The final round of fixtures in this group kick off at 11.00 BST on 3 August, with Colombia taking on Morocco and Germany facing South Korea.

Colombia need a point to top the group, while Germany may need victory to be sure of reaching the knock-outs.

“Obviously, you need to be happy and euphoric because this is a great win for the whole country and we’ve been feeling this,” said Colombia assistant coach Angelo Marsiglia.

“But look, the game and the tournament still continues so we’ll go step by step. We have a very mature team and they know what they want.”

The 25-year-old wore the Islamic headscarf as she made her first appearance at the tournament in her side’s 1-0 win over South Korea.

The wearing of head coverings for religious reasons was authorised by Fifa in 2014.

Morocco are one of eight teams making their debut at this summer’s Women’s World Cup.

Benzina, who plays her club football in Morocco, is the first player to wear a hijab at a senior women’s international tournament.

She was an unused substitute during her country’s opening game against Germany, which they lost 6-0.

Swaby rose highest to head home from a Trudi Carter cross in the 56th minute as the Reggae Girlz recorded a historic win – and in the process knocked Panama out of the tournament.

France and Jamaica are joint top of Group F and now face final decisive group matches against Panama and Brazil respectively on Wednesday, 2 August.

Lorne Donaldson’s side, who were without captain Khadija ‘Bunny’ Shaw after she was sent off in the dying seconds of their goalless draw against France, have shown significant progress since 2019 when they lost all three matches on their only previous tournament appearance.

Atlanta Primus was particularly lively in the first half as Jamaica looked to dominant proceedings, having two shots blocked and firing high over the bar from distance.

Jamaica went even closer when Vyan Sampson struck from the edge of the area looking to curl into the top corner before Panama goalkeeper Yenith Bailey sprung to her right and palmed it behind.

Drew Spence’s curling free-kick just before half-time was also pushed onto the bar by Bailey as Jamaica looked to break the deadlock.

Allyson Swaby’s header was enough to secure a historic win for Jamaica

After Swaby finally found a way through, they were then denied a penalty in stoppage time at the end of the second half after the video assistant referee ruled Wendy Natis did not handball to block Drew Spence’s shot.

Meanwhile, debutants Panama are still searching for their first goal in the competition.

Panama captain Marta Cox created her side’s best chances of the match but saw a shot blocked before shooting wide from 12 yards out after seizing on a loose defensive clearance.

Ignacio Quintana’s side piled on the pressure in added time, with Emily Cedeno having a shot blocked following a delivery into the box from Cox, but could not find an equaliser.