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Swallows FC showed character as they fought back to hold Mamelodi Sundowns to a 1-1 draw in a PSL match which was played at Lucas Moripe Stadium on Saturday afternoon.

Kermit Erasmus opened the scoring with an exquisite finish in the first half, but his strike was cancelled out by Musa Nyatama's stoppage-time goal.

Masandawana were looking to bounce back to winning ways having recorded two successive 0-0 draws against SuperSport United and Bloemfontein Celtic.

Hlompho Kekana and Gaston Sirino were recalled to the starting line-up by Sundowns head coach Manqoba Mngqithi, who made two changes to the team which faced Celtic in midweek.

On the other hand, the Beautiful Birds had also dropped points in midweek when they were held to a 1-1 draw by a resilient Chippa United side.

Coach Brandon Truter recalled the experienced duo of Lebohang Mokoena and Thabo Matlaba to the starting line-up after they missed the clash against the Chilli Boys.

The two teams were evenly matched in the opening exchanges, but the game began to open up after the 15th-minute mark with Masandawana launching most of their attacks down the right-hand side.

Virgil Vries spilt two crosses from Sirino and Thapelo Morena, but the Swallows goalkeeper was able to react quickly and gathered the ball on both occasions before Erasmus could pounce and score.

An unmarked Lebohang Maboe then missed the target from inside the box when he dragged his effort wide of the target after receiving a cut-back pass from Themba Zwane.

Ruzaigh Gamildien, who was being frustrated by Masandawana's resolute defence, picked up his fourth yellow card of the season and Swallows' talisman will miss the Soweto giants' next match which is against SuperSport on January 30.

The hosts continued to probe for the opening goal with Kekana placing his effort wide of the target from inside the box, before forcing Vries into a low save with a long-range effort from a free-kick.

George Maluleka, who was dictating the tempo of the match in midfield, then sent Erasmus through on goal and the diminutive striker fired past Vries to make it 1-0 to Sundowns on the stroke of half-time.

Masandawana searched for more goals after the restart and Vries was the busier of the two goalkeepers with his side under pressure. 

The former Kaizer Chiefs shot-stopper produced a low, diving save to deny Zwane, before gathering Erasmus' effort which was heading for the top corner.

Attack-minded duo of Kagiso Malinga and Kgaogelo Sekgota was introduced by Truter just after the hour-mark as Swallows looked to restore parity.

The Beautiful Birds resorted to long-range shots in the closing stages of the match and one of them was easily gathered by Onyango from Malinga.

However, Nyatama grabbed a late equalizing goal in stoppage time to ensure that the game ended in a 1-1 draw when he scored from the rebound after Onyango had parried Malinga's free-kick on to the former Pirates' midfielder path.

The draw saw Sundowns, who are set to take on Black Leopards on January 27, remain at the top of the league standings - level on points with second-placed Swallows. 

Kelechi Iheanacho has urged Leicester City to seize every opportunity to get an early goal when they take on Brentford in the fourth round of the FA Cup tie on Sunday.

The centre-forward will be expected to lead the Foxes attack in the absence of Jamie Vardy, who is set to undergo surgery.

The Nigeria international is no stranger to playing against the Bees after scoring in their previous meeting last season.

Iheanacho has advised the King Power Stadium outfit to be fully focused in the encounter in order to ensure they claim the victory and progress to the next round of the tournament.

“We played them last time in the FA Cup and probably the team has changed a little bit,” Iheanacho told LCFC TV via video call.

“They were a good side last time we played them, and they have good quality players as well, so they might hurt us if we’re not careful. We need to just be ourselves, play our own game and make sure that we get the win.

“We need to take our chances when they come in the first half, so they don’t take us to the second half.

“They’re at home, and sometimes when you don’t take your chances, it gets hard in the second half. You have to cope with it, so we need to take our chances when they come.”

Iheanacho recalled his strike against Brentford in last term’s outing, when he fired his effort into the back of the net after a fine combination with James Justin and Dennis Praet.

“Of course, it’s a good memory. We won that game and we went through, and I scored. I have to mention that great pass from Dennis Praet. It was absolutely outstanding, that pass,” he continued.

“That was the pass that brought the goal, and it was a great cross from JJ [James Justin] to pick me out, and I finished.

“It was a good game. They gave us a tough game, they nearly scored but Wardy [Danny Ward] kept us in it. It was a great game and we finished on top.”

Iheanacho has made 18 appearances for Leicester City this season, scoring three goals and providing four assists.

The centre-forward will hope to add to his tally this season when they take on the Brentford Community Stadium outfit.

Iheanacho has been with the Foxes since the summer of 2017 when he teamed up with the side from Manchester City.

Tusker FC have dislodged KCB from the summit of the Football Kenya Federation Premier League table after a 2-1 win at Kericho Green Stadium on Saturday.

Alex Onchwari scored for the home team with Luke Namanda and Henry Meja replying for the visitors.

The Brewers came into the match full of confidence after managing to end Kariobangi Sharks' unbeaten run last weekend.

They were playing against the hosts who had drawn two and lost one of their last three games.

The 11-time league champions needed a win to dislodge KCB from the summit of the table for the first time this season.

However, it was the win-hungry hosts who started the game well, hoping to get the better of their opponents from Nairobi.

They dominated the early proceedings, pushing forward with every chance they got.

Tayo Odongo and Collins Neto had chances to score for the Herman Iswekha-led team but they failed to trouble Michael Wanjala in the Tusker goal.

On the other hand, Namanda, Brian Marita and the in-form Meja had opportunities to give their team a lead but did not capitalise on them.

Eventually, they paid the price in the 32nd minute courtesy of Onchwari, who was at the end of a well-taken set-piece. 

It happened to be the only goal in the first half despite numerous chances created by either side.

The Brewers came back stronger in the second half as they desperately searched for an equalizer. They pressed well and often played the ball into the danger zone.

Their tactic worked as the Ruaraka-based side equalized just three minutes after the break, through Namanda.

The Brewers continued pushing for the winning goal and it came in the 85th minute. Boniface Muchiri was fouled in the danger zone and Meja stepped up to score the winning goal from the resulting penalty.

Zoo FC XI: Maxwell Mulili, Fredrick Otiso, Pascal Ogweno, Alex Onchwari, Stanslaus Akiya, Geoffrey Gichana, Edwin Namasaka, Danson Kiprono, Kefa Ondati, Tayo Odongo, Collins Neto

Subs: Vincent Misikhu, Joseph Amunabi, Martin Murabwa, Dennis Ongeri, Newton Ondari, Ernest Kipkoech, Sammy Ggolola, Bernard Wanguche 

Tusker XI: Michael Wanjala, Kelvin Monyi, Hillary Wandera, Christopher Oruchum, Eugene Asike, Hashim Sempala, Luke Namanda, Apollo Otieno, Henry Meja, Kevin Okoth, Brian Marita

Subs: Emery Mvuyekure, Sammy Meja, Vincent Ngesa, Humphrey Mieno, Jackson Macharia, Bonface Muchiri, David Majak

Liverpool need to be looking at signing a £20 million ($27m) stop-gap to help them through a defensive injury crisis, says John Barnes, with the Reds legend seeing no need to wait on players – such as Dayot Upamecano and Kalidou Koulibaly – that may be unavailable.

Jurgen Klopp has admitted that he continues to scour the market for possible additions, but the clock is ticking on the reigning Premier League champions as the January window runs down.

Plenty had been looking for a fresh face to be through the door before now, with Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez having been stuck on the sidelines with knee ligament damage for some time.

Liverpool had an opportunity to get ahead of the game, but faith has been shown in those already on their books – with academy graduates Nat Phillips and Rhys Williams stepping in while Fabinho and Jordan Henderson drop back from midfield.

Barnes feels a more proven option is now required, as the Reds scratch around for form, and believes value could be found outside of the superstar signings that have been mooted at Anfield.

The Reds legend told BonusCodeBets: “The January transfer window is always a challenging time for teams to get their number one targets as clubs aren’t willing to give away their best players so easily. 

“There is no long-term solution currently as we need to think about what to do for now. Fabinho and Jordan Henderson will not be playing centre-back for the rest of the season, so Liverpool need to think about short-term solutions. 

“A short-term solution can be a very capable, experienced centre-back, who does not play for one of the top teams and might cost you £20m, which is not a lot of money these days. 

“That might be a possibility. We know that Dayot Upamecano and Kalidou Koulibaly, who are the players we really want are not available right now.

“If a short-term solution of a decent player for £20m is going to give you a better chance of winning the league, then Liverpool should be looking for that.

“I’m not saying Liverpool can’t win the league without bringing in someone new, because everyone is playing inconsistently and no-one is making big signings, but if it enhances their chances to win the Premier League again, then they should do that.” 

While Klopp is on the lookout for another centre-half, the German tactician has also revealed that transfer calls remain out of his hands on Merseyside and his board will need to make funds available in order for any late deal to be chased down.

Liverpool and Manchester United have been dealt a transfer blow as Bayern Munich have started to make progress in contract talks with Jamal Musiala.

Goal has reported that Musiala's £100,000-per-week wage demands have been holding up Bayern's attempts to tie him down to fresh terms.

The 17-year-old is currently tied to the club on a youth agreement which is set to expire in 2022, but the German champions are eager to secure his long-term future.

Bayern are still working to reach a compromise with the teenage midfielder, but Goal has learned that negotiations between the two parties are now advancing.

Musiala, who spent eight years in Chelsea's academy before moving to Allianz Arena in 2019, is very much open to extending his stay at Bayern despite rumours linking him with a return to the Premier League.

Liverpool, United and City have all been keeping tabs on the youngster's situation, but his current employers are hopeful that he will sign a renewal before he turns 18 on February 26.

Bayern head coach Hansi Flick recently talked up Musiala's talents after trusting him to play a key role in his senior squad, telling reporters: "Jamal has enormous qualities. Bayern are clearly interested in retaining this player for a longer period of time."

The England Under-21 international has already taken in 21 appearances across all competitions for Flick's side in 2020-21, scoring three goals.

Musiala's current manager at international level also singled him out for special praise earlier in the season, with Aidy Boothroyd stating after the Three Lions' 5-0 win over Albania: "He has definitely increased game time.

"We don’t know, but he might have a growth spurt and he hasn’t even finished growing yet.

"Being out in Germany, training with that calibre of players and coaches every day is really going to help his development for us."

His latest outing came from the bench as Bayern picked up a 1-0 win away at Augsburg on Wednesday which saw them maintain their four-point lead at the top of the Bundesliga standings.

Musiala will be back in contention for a place in Flick's starting XI when the Bavarian outfit travel to Vetlins-Arena to face bottom-of-the-table Schalke on Sunday.

Bayern can take another step towards their ninth successive Bundesliga crown with a win in Gelsenkirchen before their focus shifts to a home fixture against Hoffenheim on January 30.

Mathare United coach Salim Ali was disappointed his team did not claim maximum points from their FKF Premier League fixture against Bandari on Friday.

The two sides faced off at Kasarani Stadium with the match ending in a goalless draw.

It is a result that has left coach Ali a disappointed man, insisting despite picking up a point from the game, his team deserved better from the fixture.

“We gained a point and that is a positive thing. But I see it more as two points dropped than one gained,” Ali told the club’s social media pages. “Especially with the fact that we were playing at home.

“We also failed to score for the first time this season. It’s not a worrying concern but considering the chances we created then we should be talking about three points now.

Ali was, however, happy with the display of keeper Job Ochieng and his backline for managing to keep another clean sheet in the contest.

“Job and his defenders did a good job and another shutout will have them beaming with confidence,” Ali continued.

“We started the season with a completely new backline and it affected our performances in the two losses we have suffered.

“But they are now slowly gelling together and the trial and error phase is slowly coming to an end.”

The draw was the fourth in succession for the Slum Boys, who are currently playing catch up games after they were reinstated to the top-flight by the Football Kenya Federation.

The Slum Boys were among the two ‘rebel’ teams that had refused to endorse the broadcast deal between the FKF and StarTimes, forcing the federation to suspend them from the top-flight.

However, Mathare alongside Zoo FC, moved to the Sports Disputes Tribunal, who later ruled that they be reinstated to the league.

Mathare United will now prepare for their next league assignment against Ulinzi Stars at Afraha Stadium in Nakuru on Wednesday.

Bruno Fernandes has admitted that he is wary of the threat a wounded Liverpool side will pose Manchester United in the FA Cup, while insisting "big players can show in every moment".

Liverpool and United are set to do battle for the second time in seven days at Old Trafford on Sunday.

The two teams played out a dull 0-0 draw at Anfield in the Premier League last weekend, but fireworks will be expected when they meet again in the world's oldest national football competition.

Liverpool are coming into the fourth-round tie on the back of a surprise defeat at home to Burnley which left them trailing the Red Devils, who beat Fulham in midweek, by six points in the top-flight standings.

Jurgen Klopp's side have not picked up a victory since a 7-0 demolition of Crystal Palace on December 19, scoring just once in their last five outings.

However, Fernandes isn't putting much stock into talk of a crisis at Liverpool, with it his belief that the likes of Mohamed Salah, Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mane have the ability to spark into life at any moment.

“I think teams have moments. I don't think Liverpool are playing poorly. I think they don't win and this is the point. When teams don't win, everyone talks about that," the Portuguese playmaker told United's official website .

"When players don't score, everyone talks about that. I feel that on me because I know the standard is high, because I arrived and I scored a lot of goals and make a lot of assists, and everyone is wanting goals and assists from me.

"It is the same - everyone expects goals from Salah, from Firmino and from Mane. They are not scoring in the last games and it starts feeling like 'oh, they are not playing well'.

"They create, they play, but the other teams are playing better and, as I said before, they have more qualities to play. Every team goes there to play maybe without the pressure of the fans.

"Teams play a little bit more comfortably and, as I say, I think it is a moment. We don't have to look at that moment because big teams and big players can show in every moment.”

Fernandes added on the importance of United progressing in the FA Cup at the expense of an arch-rival: “In the past already, I have seen Manchester [United] playing for a long time and I know what that game means for the fans.

"Everyone knows and of course, for us, it means a lot because it is a cup [game] and it is a chance to put one of the strongest teams who are in the cup with us out.

"So we have to take that. Of course, we have so many teams in the cup in this moment that maybe you can have an easier game than this, but if you want to win the cup then you have to beat the biggest teams, so we have a chance now to beat one of the best that is left in the FA Cup.

“I hope it can be a good game, but what is important for me is winning the game. But I hope and I am sure it will be a good game for the fans, and for everyone who is watching.

"I think they can enjoy it with goals or no goals. The game has players with quality to try to give quality to the fans.”

Mikel Arteta has revealed why Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang isn't in Arsenal's squad to face Southampton in the FA Cup on Saturday afternoon.

Aubameyang was left out of Arteta's final 20-man squad for the fourth-round tie, with Eddie Nketiah stepping in to lead the line his absence.

The Spaniard explained the reason behind the Gabon international's omission during a pre-match interview, telling reporters: "He had a personal matter in the last few hours and we had to send him back."

Arsenal will now have to make do without a prized asset as the Gunners continue their defence of the FA Cup, having beaten Newcastle 2-0 in the previous round.

Aubameyang scored twice in a 3-0 win over the Magpies in the Premier League on Monday, but has not made his way to St Mary's Stadium with the rest of the squad.

The 31-year-old has struggled for form and fitness throughout the 2020-21 campaign, with his latest top-flight double taking his tally to just eight goals in 20 appearances across all competitions.

Some have suggested that Aubameyang has allowed his standards to slip since committing to a bumper new contract at Emirates Stadium in September, but Arsenal legend Ian Wright attempted to silence his critics after the Newcastle game.

"People have been talking about his form, signing his contract then clocking off, it’s rubbish, he just didn’t get chances, not chances like that [against Newcastle]," said Wright.

"We’ve seen him score chances like the second goal where he’s in the middle of the box because Arsenal created something, they haven’t been creating things.

"Now with [Bukayo] Saka’s emergence, Emile Smith Rowe’s emergence, great play from Cedric [Soares], there’s always balls going into the box, chances being made, and he’ll come alive again."

Fans will hope that Aubameyang will be available for selection again when Arsenal face Southampton in the Premier League on Tuesday, with it being unclear exactly what the personal matter refers to.

Jamshedpur FC coach Owen Coyle feels that the additions of Seiminlen Doungel and Farukh Choudhary in the January transfer window of the 2020-21 Indian Super League (ISL) will inject more pace in his squad. Doungel has been signed on a loan deal till the end of thre season from FC Goa while Farukh is part of a swap deal with Jackichand Singh who has moved to Mumbai City.

"We need to add speed and that's what we have done. Jacki is a very good player but what we don't have is real speed at the top end of the pitch. Farukh was a huge threat for Jamshedpur last year and he will be again. And it wasn't just a straight swap for Jamshedpur. There was obviously finance involved," Coyle shared.

"And moving forward, Farukh is a very young player and Jacki almost hasn't scored yet this season. He had three assists from 12 games. So in Farukh, we have both a young and quality player who can both score and create goals. We wish Jacki well but in Len Doungel as well, we have real speed. So there's no doubt it's good business by Jamshedpur," he insisted.

Going into their tie against Hyderabad FC on Sunday, the Red Miners have lost all of their three games in January so far and are currently eighth with 13 points from 12 games.

Jamshedpur have, since their entry in the ISL from the 2017-18 season, never made it to the play-offs of the competition but Coyle feels that his side has done better than the results have shown.

"Nobody ever likes to lose games. I can only speak about this season. We have shown that we can compete against the very best. We had a horrible week. There's no doubt about that. [With] the performances that we have had, we could have some points against Kerala Blasters (lost 3-2) and NorthEast United (lost 2-1). The margins are very fine and we have to make sure to be on the right side of those margins.

"Some people just look at results and analyse the teams - because the team won, they were the better team. That's not really the case. So we need to pick ourselves up. We need games to go fight out for those play-off spots," he reasoned.

"If anybody knows the challenge of doing that (making the play-offs), is myself. Because I was down there (Chennaiyin FC) at the bottom last year and then we had a tremendous run. Jamshedpur is in a far better position than last season. So we are more than capable of making up the deficit to get there," said the former Chennaiyin gaffer.

Owen Coyle also praised the performance of the Indian players at Hyderabad FC. He credited the club for helping develop the next generation of Indian players who would serve the Indian national team.

"When you look through the team (Hyderabad), there are young players that have come in. They have obviously learned from the disappointing season they had last year. The fullbacks [Asish] Rai and [Akash] Mishra have been very good. Sana (Chinlensana Singh) and Liston (Colaco) as well. All credit to them and it's great for the development of the national team. We're very respectful and vary of them but we will make sure to stop them from bringing their top game against us," he mentioned.

The former Burnley manager is keen to change their fortunes and get back to winning ways in order to stay in contention for a berth in the top four.

"I think that (points required to make it to the play-offs) is a tough one to call. If I look back to last year, things can change very quickly. What you have to do, regardless of what the target or points total is, is you have to make sure to have the momentum with you. You can have that when you start winning games and that's what we look to do," he signed out.

Watford midfielder Will Hughes has revealed John Obi Mikel’s performance for Stoke City caused his side problems.

The Hornets managed to secure a 2-1 victory over the Potters in Friday’s Championship game after a tense encounter.

Mikel was afforded his 19th league appearance in the game and was one of the standout performers for Michael O'Neill’s men.

The former Nigeria international made a number of tackles and interceptions although his effort was not enough to help his side avoid defeat at Bet365 Stadium.

There was no goal in the encounter until the hour mark when Troy Deeney broke the deadlock from the penalty spot before Senegal international Ismaila Sarr doubled the lead to render Steven Fletcher’s late strike a mere consolation goal.

Hughes explained that the Hornets struggled in the encounter because of the solid performance displayed by the 33-year-old.

“We did a lot better in the second half with how we pressed because their formation caused us a few issues in the first half,” Hughes told the club website.

“The three in midfield caused us some problems in terms of who was going out to press who and [John] Obi Mikel had a lot of the ball, so we found it hard.

“In the second half we stayed higher up the pitch and pressed a bit more and when you do that in this league you’re not going to find many teams who can play through it. When you apply pressure you’re going to get the ball in the right areas and create things.”

Sarr, who bagged his fifth Championship goal of the season at Bet365 Stadium with a fine finish, has been praised by Watford manager Xisco Munoz for his contribution.

“Sarr was amazing, he finished like a top striker,” Munoz said after the game.

“I’m very happy with him because he plays a lot of minutes and every time he gives the best for the team. I’m very happy with all of them, and these three points are important for us.”

Mikel teamed up with Stoke last summer as a free agent after leaving Turkish Super Lig side Trabzonspor by mutual agreement.

The midfielder has now made 21 appearances since his arrival at the Championship club and will be expected to continue his impactful showings when Watford take on Huddersfield Town in their next league game on January 30.

Spanish club Madrid CFF have completed the signing of Nigeria midfielder Ogonna Chukwudi for the remainder of the 2020-21 campaign.

The Madrid based outfit secured the Super Falcons star as a free agent after one year with Russian side CSKA Moscow last season.

On joining CSKA from Djurgardens last term, she celebrated a domestic title success with the Russian champions despite missing out on kicking the ball during her side's campaign due to an injury.

Having moved to Spain, she will be hoping to get her professional career back on track at Matapinoneras after fully recovering from her unfortunate injury setback in Russia.

Her arrival will also bolster the ranks of Oscar Fernandez's team as they seek to improve on their good start to the current campaign, with 25 points from 14 matches in seventh position.

With her announcement, she becomes the second Nigerian to join Madrid this January after Osinachi Ohale from AS Roma and fourth at the club after Chidinma Okeke and Rita Chikwelu. 

Her move also means, there are now eight Nigerians in the Spanish top-flight this term, along with Eibar's Charity Adule, Barcelona's Asisat Oshoala, Sevilla's Toni Payne, Atletico Madrid's Rasheedat Ajibade and Madrid CFF trio Chikwelu, Okeke and Ohale.

The 32-year-old boasts huge experience, having enjoyed a decade long stay in Sweden where she starred for Umea, KIF Orebro, Kristianstads and Djurgardens before joining CSKA.

At international level, she played for Nigeria at three Women's World Cup tournaments in 2007, 2011, and 2019 and also featured twice at the African Women's Cup of Nations in 2008 and 2012. 

Goal understands Ogonna and Chukwudi could earn their debuts for Madrid after making the travelling squad to Real Betis on Saturday.

Uganda Cranes coach Johnathan McKinstry believes his team put up a performance filled with passion and desire despite going down 2-1 to Togo in a Group D game in the African Nations Championship competition.

Paul Mbowa scored an own goal to give the West Africans the lead, but Saidi Kyeyune equalized with a screamer before Richard Nane sealed the win in favour of the Sparrowhawks with a well-taken volley.  

The Northern Irish tactician has now taken to Twitter to express his feelings and at the same time exuding confidence that his team will make it to the quarter-finals with a win over the defending champions Morocco.

"A performance filled with passion, purpose, and desire that unfortunately wasn't able to bring us the result we craved," McKinstry tweeted.

"Our attention now turns to our final Chan Group C game where a win over Morocco will see Uganda Cranes advance to the quarter-finals."

Currently, the Atlas Lions lead the pool with four points after a 1-0 win over the Sparrowhawks and a 0-0 draw with Amavubi. Togo are second owing to Friday's win over the East African heavyweights while Rwanda come in third with two points.

The 2019 Cecafa Senior Challenge Cup champions are bottom of the group with a point.

In an earlier interview, the 35-year-old tactician said his charges have enough quality to advance.

"If we can produce the display especially that we had in the second half [vs Togo], which had a little bit more quality, we can get the results against Morocco," McKinstry told Goal. 

"And if that happens we will be in the quarter-final. So, people are disappointed now and everyone is after a loss, but we need to get our heads up. We know we have got the quality that is going to cause Morocco problems."

The Cecafa champions have never progressed into the quarter-final of the tournament and McKinstry's ambition was to break the jinx.

Despite the loss, the former Rwanda coach is hopeful the target is still achievable.

"As a nation, our target is to go deep into the tournament. I think we have three players who were in the tournament two years ago and the current one is a completely new team," he concluded.

"Our target from the beginning of the tournament was to go deep and the target at this exact moment remains to go deep into the tournament."

Uganda head coach Johnathan McKinstry is hopeful they will get the result against Morocco in the final game of Group C's African Nations Championship competition and reach the quarterfinals.

The Cranes find themselves in a difficult position after going down 2-1 against Togo. An own goal from Paul Mbowa and a Yendoutie Nane curled strike gave the debuting Togo the vital victory while Uganda's goal was scored by Saidi Kyeyune.

"If we can produce the display especially that we had in the second half [vs Togo], which had a little bit more quality, we can get the result against Morocco," McKinstry told Goal. 

"And if that happens we will be in the quarterfinal. So, people are disappointed now and everyone is after a loss, but we need to get our heads up. We know we have got the quality that is going to cause Morocco problems.”

The Cecafa champions have never progressed into the quarterfinal of the tournament and McKinstry's ambition - which he has stated time without number - was to break the jinx.

Despite the loss, the former Rwanda coach is hopeful the target is still achievable.

"As a nation, our target is to go deep into the tournament. I think we have three players who were in the tournament two years ago and the current one is a completely new team," he concluded.

"Our target from the beginning of the tournament was to go deep and the target at this exact moment remains to go deep into the tournament."

Meanwhile, Togo's assistant coach Franck Dote hailed his players after they fought for a first win in the competition.

“A historic and satisfying victory for our young players. We pocketed the three points with the manner, extraordinary goals, and spectacular football," he told Caf Online.

"I thank the group for being able to react. The result shows us that we could have a positive result against Morocco. Now the appetite comes with eating, we must not stop at such a good point. 

"It would be a group final against Rwanda. We have to play with our values ​​to win again and get a thrilling qualification."

The next games for the group will be played on Tuesday with Rwanda and Togo facing off in an early kick-off before a decisive clash between the Atlas Lions and the Cranes.

Trent Alexander-Arnold should call Steven Gerrard, according to Jamie Carragher, who has urged the struggling Liverpool full-back to seek advice from a club legend.

Alexander-Arnold has enjoyed a meteoric ascent to stardom since graduating to Liverpool's senior squad in 2016.

The 22-year-old has racked up 155 appearances for the Reds in total, scoring eight goals while also providing an impressive 39 assists from defence.

He played a key role as Jurgen Klopp's side conquered the Champions League in 2018-19 before making an equally important contribution to their run to Premier League glory the following season, but he has allowed his standards to slip in more recent times.

Liverpool's title defence has not gone as smoothly as supporters might have hoped, with Alexander-Arnold one of several first-team stars currently struggling for form amid a poor run of results.

The England international is no longer making a difference in the final third and teams have started to take advantage of his lack of positional sense at the other end of the pitch, but Carragher insists he is still young enough to get back on track.

The Reds' second-longest serving player of all time thinks his ex-Anfield team-mate Gerrard could help Alexander-Arnold rediscover his confidence, as he wrote in his latest column for The Telegraph: "We too easily forget that Trent Alexander-Arnold is only 22.

"Trent could do worse than share a private call with Steven Gerrard.

"I remember well how Stevie overcame a slight dip after his first initial breakthrough into the first team, guided back to his best. It happens."

Liverpool have slipped to fourth in the Premier League standings after a five-match winless run, with their latest setback coming in the form of a 1-0 loss to Burnley which saw their 68-game unbeaten home record shattered.

Klopp's task has been made all the more difficult by a defensive injury crisis, as Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez have been forced to miss the majority of the campaign with serious knee injuries.

Carragher has criticised the club for failing to give the German head coach the funds he needs to bring in cover this month, with Jordan Henderson and Fabinho currently slotting in as makeshift centre-backs.

"I believe the club’s response should have been activated on October 19, the day Virgil van Dijk’s cruciate knee operation was confirmed," said the former Reds favourite.

"I said then I did not think Liverpool could win the league unless they had a new centre-back in place on January 1. They needed one before Joe Gomez was injured.

"His and Joel Matip’s appearance record was informative of that. Frankly, it is preposterous that three months on and with the transfer window now open, Klopp felt compelled to use Jordan Henderson in the position against Manchester United.

"And although Fabinho has been outstanding, he would be more influential in midfield. It has caused a chain reaction throughout the team.

"I believe this time the club needed to react in the transfer market to ensure these most trying of times do not undermine Liverpool’s upward trajectory."

Wazito FC coach Francis Kimanzi has played down suggestions his charges will be among the favourites for the 2020/21 Football Kenya Federation Premier League title. 

The Nairobi-based charges have been in good form and after Friday's 2-1 win over Nzoia Sugar, some feel the team is ready to offer a stiff challenge for the trophy. However, the immediate former Harambee Stars coach believes otherwise.

"I cannot say we are challenging for the league this season," Kimanzi told Goal on Saturday.

"It is an unrealistic objective which will put the team under unnecessary pressure. Currently, it is all about one game at a time. We are still under the process of building a team for the long term and not setting unrealistic goals."

After the release of Derrick Otanga, Elvis Rupia, Pistone Mutamba, Paul Kiongera and Victor Ndinya in the recent past, the team has struggled to get a replacement.

The tactician has conceded he is in the market for an established striker to help boost his attacking department.

"Yes, we are targeting a striker who can help us improve our attack, but currently, our options are limited," Kimanzi continued.

"It is a challenge to get a quality striker during the mid-season transfer window. We are, however, looking around to see if we can secure one. But if not the case, then we will have to work with what we have.

"We want to continue pushing harder and ensure we build a quality team that will consistently perform."

On Friday, Kevin Kimani and Whyvonne Isuza scored for Wazito while the Sugar Millers found the back of the net in the first half courtesy of Erick Otieno.

Nzoia Sugar were the stronger side in the opening 10 minutes and they got an opener in the ninth minute via Otieno’s effort.

In the 53rd minute, Dennis Sikhayi was fouled and Wazito won a penalty that was converted by Kimani, who has been a sensation since his move from Mathare United to the former National Super League champions.

Francis Kimanzi made a 65th-minute change when he introduced Vincent Oburu in place of Boniface Omondi and five minutes after his introduction, he was denied by Katasi as he launched his trademark shot in search of Wazito’s second.

As Nzoia Sugar failed to clear the ball in their area, they gave Isuza a great chance to double Wazito’s lead from a crowded area in the 71st minute, and he made no mistake with his finish.

Mamelodi Sundowns are clinging onto the summit of the Premier Soccer League standings but are facing some serious threat when they host second-placed Swallows FC in Saturday's match at Lucas Moripe Stadium.

It is a day which could see Swallows assume the lead if they beat the current table-toppers as both teams have 26 points although Sundowns enjoy a superior goal difference.

After being held to a 0-0 draw by then second-placed SuperSport United last weekend in another top-of-the-table affair, the Brazilians are on a tough mission again.

That they were held to a goalless draw by Bloemfontein Celtic at home in the following match last Tuesday, places them in a desperate corner to recover from losing four points in two straight games.

TV Channel, Live Score & How To Watch

Squads & Team News

Sundowns assistant coach Rhulani Mokwena has confirmed that they will again be without defender Ricardo Nascimento but did not specify why the Brazilians player is out.

It will be the third straight league match for Nascimento to be out.

Mokwena also said for “medical reasons” they will be missing the services of defenders Lyle Lakay and Bangaly Soumahoro as well as midfielder Khuliso Mudau.

Another defender Brian Onyango will be absent due to a thigh injury.

There are no confirmed absentees from the Swallows camp.

The Dube Birds go into the big match in which coach Brandon Truter would need his key players available for selection.

Match Preview

For the first time since February 2015, the two Gauteng sides are clashing in an official match.

That last meeting at Lucas Moripe Stadium saw Downs convincingly coming out 4-1 victors in a season Swallows went on to be relegated from the PSL.

During that campaign, Sundowns also won the reverse fixture 2-0 at Dobsonville Stadium in August 2014.

But much has happened to both teams since then in what makes Saturday's encounter a totally different ball game.

Interestingly, the Brazilians and the Dube Birds are yet to taste defeat in the current campaign.

While Sundowns have lost a bit of ground in the last five games in which they have only claimed three points in two of their last five games, they, however, remain the title favourites.

After Sundowns drew with Bloemfontein Celtic on Tuesday, Swallows also blew up an opportunity to go top when they were held 1-1 by struggling Chippa United the following day.

This makes Saturday's confrontation a battle between two teams keen to get back up on their feet following the midweek dropping of points.

But it is an unpredictable match since both teams have surprisingly been throwing away points in certain fixtures they were tipped to win.

Swallows, however, have a better record than Sundowns in their last five matches, having won thrice.

Dwight Yorke has expressed his belief that criticism of Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer stems from "pure jealousy" while claiming "people don’t want to see him be successful".

Solskjaer is currently in the middle of his second full season in charge at Old Trafford, having been appointed as Jose Mourinho's permanent successor in the dugout back in March 2019.

The Norwegian guided the Red Devils to a third-place Premier League finish and three semi-finals last term, bringing in the likes of Harry Maguire, Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Bruno Fernandes to aid his cause along the way.

Edinson Cavani, Alex Telles and Donny van de Beek were also recruited ahead of the 2020-21 campaign, which has so far been a hugely successful one for the Manchester outfit.

United have risen to the top-flight summit post-new year for the first time since Sir Alex Ferguson's departure eight years ago, having recorded 12 wins, four draws and just three defeats from their opening 19 fixtures.

Despite the fact he has overseen steady progress at the Theatre of Dreams, questions have been asked over Solskjaer's credentials throughout his tenure, with an early Champions League exit at the start of December bringing the situation to a boiling point.

However, the Red Devils kept faith with a club legend amid intense pressure to make a change, and they have been rewarded for their patience since then as the team has embarked on a run of seven wins from their last 10 matches across all competitions.

Yorke thinks Solskjaer has been the victim of an unfair witchhunt because of the fact he was handed the managerial reins with minimal coaching experience, as the treble winner told The Sun: “There is a lot of jealousy towards Ole from within the game. People don’t want to see him be successful for some reason.

“I have been looking at it and listening to people talk about the football club and it is pure jealousy.

“He did not do great at Cardiff and managed Molde then gets one of the top jobs in world football.

“People in football are begging for an opportunity and he has got this one, he’s won the jackpot.”

The former United striker has been delighted to see his old team-mate prove his doubters wrong in recent weeks, and has hailed his ability to block out negativity and stick to his core values.

Yorke added on a man who has been tipped to deliver the club's 21st league title come May: “He has ignored all that talk, stuck to his beliefs and, let’s remember, used all his experience from his time at United as a player and working with the Under-23s.

“He has grasped this and now look at where they are.”

Uganda head coach Johnathan McKinstry has claimed Rwanda were unlucky not to beat Morocco in Group C's second African Nations Championship tie on Tuesday.

The Amavubi drew 0-0 against the reigning champions even though they looked outclassed and McKinstry said the Chan 2016 finalists were unlucky not to emerge victors from the game.

"We need to pick ourselves up because we know Morocco are a team that can be beaten. I think Rwanda were quite unlucky not to pick three points from the game," McKinstry told Goal.

"We need to prepare ourselves knowing that any kind of a win will put us in the quarter-final."

Uganda ceded some more ground in pursuit of a place in the knockout stage after they were defeated by Togo 2-1. The loss did not entirely break the heart of McKinstry - who has always insisted on the need for Uganda to fight for a maiden slot in Chan's knockout phase - as he believes they can navigate past the Atlas Lions and into the next stage.

"What I can say is that the only thing that was lacking from our game was not getting the target," he added.

"We are not out of the competition because if we beat Morocco we will qualify for the quarter-finals. The decider in the group stage is the head-to-head rule and so I want to say again a win against Morocco will take us through.

"That is my understanding when reading the rules."

The Northern Irish tactician, however, hailed how his players faced the Sparrowhawks despite the first defeat in Cameroon.

 "We played well and created chances in the first half and we were the team on top but for the own goal," he concluded. "I know it is going to be on the highlights, where we believe it was a free-kick against our centre-back just before the corner was awarded."  

"So, we would like to see that again but it is what it is. Our guys played well and in the second half when we pushed to get a goal we put Togo under a lot of pressure and we were the team dictating the tempo and yes there were one or two counter-attacks from our opponents.

"We ultimately did not get the goal that we needed but congratulations to Togo, you know football is about putting the ball into the net."

Winless Uganda will face Group C leaders Morocco on Tuesday at 22:00.