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2002
BAFANA TO HOST REGGAE BOYZ
South Africa will play a friendly international against Jamaica on April 30 in Cape Town, in a match to officially launch their 2010 World Cup bid, officials confirmed on Thursday.
South Africa will play a friendly international against Jamaica on April 30 in Cape Town, in a match to officially launch their 2010 World Cup bid, officials confirmed on Thursday.
The match will also serve as the official opening of the revamped Athlone stadium in Cape Town but the ground is not being considered as a possible venue for matches in the World Cup finals if South Africa win their bid.
It will be the second meeting between the two countries, who drew 1-1 in a friendly international in Kingston in 1999.
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MADAGSACAR SQUAD FOR COSAFA TIE
Madagascar have called up four players from the clubs on the neighbouring island of Reunion for their Cosafa Castle Cup first round match against Mauritius later this month.
Madagascar have called up four players from the clubs on the neighbouring island of Reunion for their Cosafa Castle Cup first round match against Mauritius later this month. The Malagasy Football federation released the names of an 18-man squad on Thursday for the match, the first in this year's southern African championship. It will be played in Antananarivo on February 22 Among the four, coach Hans Heiniger named Ruphin Menakely, who has scored in both his country's two previous matches. He plays for Excelsior on the French-controlled island.
Madagascar's Squad:
Goalkeepers:Jean Chrysostome Raharison (Domoina Soavino Astimondrano), Bruno Rajaozara (AS Adema)
Defenders:Patrick Alain Andrianiaina (US Ambohidratrimo), Jimmy Radafison, Olivier Rakotondranoro (both Stade Olympique Emyrne), Ando Ramarojaona, Norbert Randrianoelsion (both Domoina Soavino Astimondrano), Mamisoa Razafindrakoto (Stade Olympique Emyrne)
Midfielders:Christophe Anly (AS Fortior), Nestor Benoavy (AS Adema), Jean-Jacques Radonamahafalison (AS Marsoins, Reunion), Etienne Rado Rasonaivo (Stade Tamponnaise, Reunion), Jean-Natal Ratsimialona (AS Fortior), Elyse Razafindrakoto (US Transfoot)
Strikers:Ruphin Menakely (Excelsior, Reunion), Fabrice Mosa (St Louisienne, Reunion), Patrick Rajaobary (Domoina Soavino Astimondrano), Patrice Dominique Rakotondraibe (AS Jirama)
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MALAWI HAVE NEW COACH
Englishman Alan Gillett has been appointed as coach of Malawi for the next four months, including a vital African Nations Cup qualifier against Nigeria next month.
Englishman Alan Gillett has been appointed as coach of Malawi for the next four months, including a vital African Nations Cup qualifier against Nigeria next month.
Gillett is expected in Malawi next week after the finalising of his contract, officials said on Wednesday.
The coach, who was sourced for Malawi by the Football Association in London, has previously worked in Yemen and Japan.
He has also been on the staff of several English league clubs, including Wimbledon, Watford and Plymouth Argyle. His last job was working with a coaching academy in Miami, Florida.
Malawi approached the Football Association last month for help in securing a coach after the departure of Kim Splidsboel back to Denmark. Malawi and England are paired as part of the Meridian Project, a co-operation agreement between UEFA, Europe's governing body, and the Confederation of African Football.
Last year, the English hosted Malawi's national team on a four-match tour, including game against first division sides.
Malawi host Nigeria on March 29 in the Nations Cup preliminaries. The southern African nation won their previous qualifier against Angola last October and head the group one standings.
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DLAMINI NEW SWAZI COACH
Swaziland have appointed Mandla Dlamini as their new coach, replacing Dumisa Mahlalela who had attempted to commit suicide last year, officials confirmed on Tuesday.
Swaziland have appointed Mandla Dlamini as their new coach, replacing Dumisa Mahlalela who had attempted to commit suicide last year, officials confirmed on Tuesday.
Dlamini had previously worked as Mahlalela's assistant and as coach of Swaziland's under-17 team. He is also coach of a second division team Pastor United.
Swaziland Football Association secretary general Kenneth Makhanya said Mahlalela, who led the tiny kingdom to the semifinals of the Cosafa Castle Cup last year, had not recovered sufficiently after the attempted suicide.
"It had nothing to do with football, it was a personal matter," he added without giving further explanation.
Mahlalela also saw Swaziland to a home win over Libya and an away draw in Botswana in their opening two matches of the 2004 African Nations Cup qualifiers. Swaziland host the Democratic Republic of Congo in their next qualifier on March 30.
Sihlangu have a bye through to the quarter-finals of this year's Cosafa Castle Cup.
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| COSAFA JOURNALIST AWARDS
Once again, Castle Lager and the Council of Southern Africa Football Associations will be rewarding journalist excellence in the coverage of the 2003 Cosafa Castle Cup at the end of the tournament.
Once again, Castle Lager and the Council of Southern Africa Football Associations will be rewarding journalist excellence in the coverage of the 2003 Cosafa Castle Cup at the end of the tournament.
Castle Lager will again award three separate media prizes for the best coverage of the competition.
There will be a prize of R11,000 to the best print journalist, another R11,000 to the best radio journalist and a R5,000 award for the The best print journalist will be decided by a panel of media experts, who will determine the winner on written and printed coverage of the tournament throughout the year.
Entrants must send a portfolio of their clippings by September 1, 2003 to the entry address listed below.
The best radio journalist will also be judged by an independent panel and will be determined on style, presentation and editorial excellence. All languages are welcome to enter as professional interpreters are used to help the judges in their decision-making.
Entries must be sent on cassette tape by September 1, 2003. The photographic prize will go to the best collection of images and will also be judged by industry experts, Photographers must send their portfolios by September 1, 2003
All entries are to be sent to:
COSAFA CASTLE CUP
P.O. Box 833
Constantia
7848
Rep. South Africa
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| MASVINGO WANT OUT
Zimbabwe's representatives in this year's African Cup Winners' Cup Masvingo United are considering withdrawing from the competition because they do not have enough money to travel to the Seychelles for their preliminary round tie later this month.
Zimbabwe's representatives in this year's African Cup Winners' Cup Masvingo United are considering withdrawing from the competition because they do not have enough money to travel to the Seychelles for their preliminary round tie later this month.
Club chairman Fabian Mabaya said the trip would require more than 20-million Zimbabwean dollars, money that the club did not have. Masvingo United, who are a first division side, are drawn to play Anse Reunion, with the first leg in the Seychelles on February 15.
"We'd rather concentrate our resources on winning promotion to the premier league," he said. The club have been promised some financial help from the Zimbabwean Football Association but Mabaya said it was only one-tenth of what was required.
If Masvingo United withdraw, they face a fine and a mandatory two-year ban from all CAF competitions.
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| ZAMBIA NAME NATIONS CUP SQUAD
Zambia have named a provisional 23-man squad, but featuring just two of their European-based players, for next month's African Nations Cup qualifier in Tanzania.
Zambia have named a provisional 23-man squad, but featuring just two of their European-based players, for next month's African Nations Cup qualifier in Tanzania.
Coach Patrick Phiri has left out the FC Cologne pair of Moses Sichone and Andrew Sinkala, as well as the Danish-based duo of Mwape Miti and Andrew Tembo for the group three qualifier in Dar-es-Salaam on March 29.
All four have played sparingly for Zambia over the last for years because of the financial difficulties of the football association, who have not always been able to afford to fly them home for matches, and because of club commitments.
Included, however, are midfielder Gift Kampamba, now at Russian club Rostselmash, and Milton Tembo of German fourth division side SSV Ulm.
Zambia are second in their qualifying group, behind leaders Benin on goal difference. The Zambians have successfully qualified for the last seven African Nations Cup finals tournaments. The next finals are in Tunisia next year.
Zambia's Squad:
Goalkeepers:Steven Kabwe (Konkola Blades), Davies Phiri (Lamontville Golden Arrows, South Africa), Sydney Tembo (Green Buffaloes)
Defenders:Charles Bwale (Nkana FC), Sashi Chalwe (Mamelodi Sundowns, South Africa), Laughter Chilembi (Nchana Rangers), Vincent Mangamu (Konkola Blades), Joseph Musonda (Nkana FC), Mwelwa Phiri (Power Dynamos), Elijah Tana (Petro Atletico, Angola)
Midfielders:Gift Kampamba (Rostelmesh, Russia), Misheck Lungu (Green Buffaloes), Clement Mulenga (Nkana FC), Numba Mumamba (Zanaco), Boston Mwanza (Nkana FC)
Strikers:Philemon Chipeta (Lusaka Dynamos), Edward Kangwa, Roston Kilambe (both Zanaco), Francis Kombe (Power Dynamos), Harry Milanzi (Nchanga Rangers), Chaswe Nsofwa (Zanaco), Zachariah Simukonda (Red Arrows), Milton Tembo (SSV Ulm, Germany)
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| LESOTHO COACH RESIGNS
Lesotho coach Monaheng Monyane has resigned his post blaming hs departure on conflict with the country's football association, officials confirmed.
Lesotho coach Monaheng Monyane has resigned his post blaming hs departure on conflict with the country's football association, officials confirmed.
It is the second time that Monyane has quit the job and follows Lesotho's 6-0 thrashing by the Gambia in their African Nations Cup qualifier last October.
Monyane had been in charge of the side for six months, wining just one of his six matches in charge.
His previous spell as coach ended in August 2000 after a player strike over bonus payments when Lesotho were surprise qualifiers for the final of the regional Cosafa Castle Cup. They lost 6-0 on aggregate to Zimbabwe in the final.
Lesotho next play on April 6, when they travel t Mozambique for their first round match in this year's Cosafa Castle Cup.
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| SA TO LAUNCH BID IN MAY
South Africa's international against England in Durban in May is to be used a major showpiece to launch the country's 2010 World Cup worldwide.
South Africa's international against England in Durban in May is to be used a major showpiece to launch the country's 2010 World Cup worldwide.
South Africa's 2010 World Cup bid campaign director Danny Jordaan said the friendly international would attract worldwide television coverage and also be guaranteed of massed international media coverage, making it the perfect forum to officially launch the campaign.
South Africa will also invite members of FIFA's executive committee, who vote on the final decision in April 2004, to attend the game and have a first-hand look at the country's facilities and infra structure.
It will be the first time England play an international in South Africa and only the second meeting between the two countries, who played last at Old Trafford in Manchester in 1997.
The bid is to also have an African launch on April 30 when South Africa play Jamaica in another friendly international, possibly in Cape Town although the venue has yet to be decided.
Jordaan said that game would be beamed live throughout Africa in another attempt to showpiece South Africa's campaign.
Jordaan, who was formerly the chief executive officer of the South African Football Association, has already moved into new offices and set about building the infra structure for the South African campaign.
South Africa are one of six African countries bidding for the right to host the 2010 finals. The other five are Egypt, Libya, Morocco, Nigeria and Tunisia.
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| CAF AWARD NOMINEES
List of nominees for the annual African soccer awards, to be held in Johannesburg on April 1:
List of nominees for the annual African soccer awards, to be held in Johannesburg on April 1:
- Footballer of the Year:
El Hadji Ousseynou Diouf (Liverpool and Senegal), Pape Bouba Diop (Lens and Senegal), Ahmed Hossam (Ajax Amsterdam and Egypt) Young player of the Year: Ahmed Hossam (Ajax Amsterdam and Egypt), Steven Pienaar (Ajax Amsterdam and South Africa), Kolo Toure (Arsenal and Ivory Coast)
- Goalkeeper of the Year:
Essam Al Hadarin (Egypt), Alioum Boukar (Cameroon), Tony Sylva (Senegal)
- Coach of the Year:
Luis Oscar Fullone (Wydad Casablanca, Morocco), Bruno Metsu (Senegal), Idrissa Traore (ASEC Abidjan, Ivory Coast)
- Club of the year:
JS Kabylie (Algeria), Wydad Casablanca (Morocco), Zamalek (Egypt)
- Team of the year:
Cameroon, Senegal, Nigeria's womens team
- African Champions League best player:
Walid Abdellatif (Zamalek), Hicham Aboucherouane (Raja Casablanca, Morocco), Abdoulaye Djire (ASEC Abidjan,Ivory Coast)
- Best (televised) goal:
Abdelhalim Ali (Zamalek, Egypt v Costa do Sol), Abdelouahed Abdessamad (Raja Casablanca, Morocco v Jeanne d'Arc), Henri Camara (Senegal v Sweden), Pape Bouba Diop (Senegal v Uruguay), Mfanzile Dlamini(Swaziland v Namibia)
- Women's Footballer of the Year:
Alberta Sackey (Ghana)
- Youth Development Award:
Ghana Football Association
- Merit Achievement Award:
Mwade Wade (Senegal)
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| MADAGASCAR'S BUSY PROGRAMME
Madagascar's 100 percent start to their Africa Nations Cup campaign has given the islanders high hopes of a first-ever qualification to the final tournament and set the country's national federation scurrying about setting up a busy preparatory programme.
Madagascar's 100 percent start to their Africa Nations Cup campaign has given the islanders high hopes of a first-ever qualification to the final tournament and set the country's national federation scurrying about setting up a busy preparatory programme.
The Scorpions upset Egypt 1-0 in Antananarivo in their first group 10 encounter last September and then won another vital three points away at Mauritius the following month.
Their percent start leaves Egypt having to play catch-up and Malagasy officials say they are determined to not let the advantage slip. The national side, coached by the Swiss Hans Heiniger, will go into a training camp on Friday in preparation for their next international, another meeting with Mauritius.
This time the two countries meet in the opening match of this year's Cosafa Castle Cup, the annual southern African championship.
Madagascar will host the game at the Mahamasina stadium on February 22 and then travel onto Libya for two matches between February 28 and March 4.
The Indian Ocean islanders have also invited Algeria for a friendly international match in March, although there has been no confirmation of this from north Africa.
Libya will make a return visit to Madagascar on May 2 or 3 and the Scorpions then travel to Paris on May 27 for further training.
Their next Nations Cup qualifier is the vital one for the islanders - at Egypt in Cairo on June 20.
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| ANGOLA TO PLAY MOZAMBIQUE
Angola are to host Mozambique in an international in Luanda on February 12, reviving a fixture that was cancelled last November, officials said.
Angola are to host Mozambique in an international in Luanda on February 12, reviving a fixture that was cancelled last November, officials said.
The two Portuguese-speaking countries will play the second leg of the Amizade Cup, which they inaugurated last year.
Mozambique and Angola drew 1-1 in Angola in the first leg of what was planned to be an annual contest but the return game in November was cancelled after Mozambique said they were unable to field a team.
Angolan coach Ismael Kurtz said on Friday he intended calling up players from the local league, the Girabola, for the match in a move away from his previous policy of calling up mostly Portuguese-based players.
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| MARIO CALADO IS BACK
Angolan coach Mario Calado, who steered his country to success in the 2001 Cosafa Castle Cup, is back coaching club football this season, having taken over in charge of Sagrada Esperance, in the Lunda Norte province.
Angolan coach Mario Calado, who steered his country to success in the 2001 Cosafa Castle Cup, is back coaching club football this season, having taken over in charge of Sagrada Esperance, in the Lunda Norte province.
The new Angolan season marks the first time in more than a decade that there are no Brazilians among the coaches of sides in the top flight.
Dutchman Jan Brouwer, formerly with Zambia, takes over at Petro Atletico and Carlos Queiros, another former national coach but not to be confused with the ex Bafana Bafana boss, is in charge at Desportivo Huila.
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| MOLOTO RETURNS TO CLUB COACHING
Former South African national coach Trott Moloto has been appointed as the new coach of premier league club Umtata Bush Bucks, officials confirmed on Wednesday.
Former South African national coach Trott Moloto has been appointed as the new coach of premier league club Umtata Bush Bucks, officials confirmed on Wednesday.
The 46-year-old Moloto returns to the club with which he won the League Cup in 1996.
Moloto served as South African coach from October 1998 to August 2000, during which time the side reached the semifinals of 2000 African Nations Cup finals, co-hosted by Ghana and Nigeria.
He was replaced as South African coach by Carlos Queiroz, under whom he then served as assistant.
He has also worked as a coach at Ratanang Mahlosiane, Mamelodi Sundowns and Kaizer Chiefs.
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| TOVEY TO COACH
Former South African captain Neil Tovey has been appointed as the new coach of struggling Cape Town club Hellenic, the club announced on Tuesday.
Former South African captain Neil Tovey has been appointed as the new coach of struggling Cape Town club Hellenic, the club announced on Tuesday.
The 40-year-old won 52 caps for South Africa and captained them to the 1996 African Nations Cup title but has had an unspectacular and brief career as a coach since retiring.
He spent several months with Mamelodi Sundowns and at AmaZulu and was also briefly assistant coach of the South African under-20 team before being removed from the post.
At Hellenic, Tovey takes over the Yugoslav Zoran Pesic, sacked last year. Hellenic, who are the longest surviving professional club in South Africa, are one place above the relegation zone in the 16-team premier league.
Tovey debuts in a league match against second-from-bottom Black Leopards in Cape Town on Saturday. His contract runs until the end of the season in May.
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| REFEREES NAMED FOR UPCOMING GAMES
The match appointments for the first round games in the 2003 COSAFA CASTLE CUP have been released by Cosafa headquarters in Gaborone on Monday.
The match appointments for the first round games in the 2003 COSAFA CASTLE CUP have been released by Cosafa headquarters in Gaborone on Monday.
The appointments are:
Madagascar v Mauritius (Feb 22, Antananarivo)
Referee: Simon Motau (South Africa)
Linesmen: Kenneth Jibiliza, Amos Mlambo (South Africa)
Fourth official: Eli Rakotson (Madagascar)
Namibia v Botswana (15 March, Windhoek)
Referee: Mbongeni Fakudze (Swaziland)
Linesmen: Bhekisizwe Mkhabela, Sabelo Kunene (Swaziland)
Fourth official: Erastus Shilinga (Namibia)
Mozambique v Lesotho (6 April, Maputo)
Referee: Fredrick Lwanja (Malawi)
Linesmen: Moffat Champiti, Zuza Nyondo (Malawi)
Fourth official: Henrique Langa (Mozambique)
Zimbabwe v Angola (20 April, Harare)
Referee: Masauso Nkuna (Zambia)
Linesmen: Felix Sichone, Stephen Kamungona (Zambia)
Fourth official: Wonder Kalota (Zimbabwe)
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| NAMIBIA LOOSE KEY PLAYER
Namibian international Mohamed Ouseb will out of action until June after undergoing surgery to his left knee.
Namibian international Mohamed Ouseb will out of action until June after undergoing surgery to his left knee.
The ex-Kaizer Chiefs defender, now playing at Lyn Oslo in Norway, had a damaged cartilage repaired towards the end of last year and has been told by doctors he must not play again until June.
Ouseb had spent the holiday season resting at home in Namibia but is now back in Norway undergoing rehabilitation on the knee.
His absence will mean he misses the start of the new Norwegian season plus international matches for Namibia in the African Nations Cup qualifiers and the Cosafa Castle Cup.
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| BOTSWANA TEAM FOR DR CONGO TRIP
Botswana have left out their American-based striker Dipsy Selolwane from the 18-man squad to travel to Kinshasa for an African Nations Cup qualifier against the Democratic Republic of Congo on Sunday.
Botswana have left out their American-based striker Dipsy Selolwane from the 18-man squad to travel to Kinshasa for an African Nations Cup qualifier against the Democratic Republic of Congo on Sunday.
New coach Vesselin Jesulic would only be using locally-based players, officials said on Wednesday. No reason was given for the exclusion of Selolwane, who recently signed for Chicago Fire.
Botswana drew 0-0 at home with Swaziland last month in their opening qualifier in group nine.
Botswana's Squad:
Goalkeepers:Emmanuel Bentu (Jwaneng Comets), Modiri Marumo (Botswana Defence Force XI)
Defenders:Mogogi Gabonamong (Mogoditshane Fighters), Pius Kolagano (Botswana Defence Force XI), Khumo Motlhabane (Jwaneng Comets), Donald Thobega (Mogoditshane Fighters)
Midfielders:Barulaganyi Bolofete (Extension Gunners), Phazha Butale (Notwane), Nelson Gabolwelwe (Botswana Defence Force XI), Shimane Kgope (Mogoditshane Fighters), Kabelo Kgosiang (Prisons XI), Eric Molebatsi (Tafic), Tebogo Mothusi (TASC), Innocent Ranku (Notwane), Busang Rasefako (Jwaneng Comets)
Strikers:Mpho Mabogo (Botswana Defence Force XI), Tshepiso Molwantwa (Township Rollers), Oliver Pikati (Police XI)
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| BARTLETT OUT OF BAFANA GAME
South African striker Shaun Bartlett has withdrawn from Sunday's African Nations Cup qualifier against Burundi leaving an already depltede attack further hampered for a match in which South Africa require a goal deluge.
South African striker Shaun Bartlett has withdrawn from Sunday's African Nations Cup qualifier against Burundi leaving an already depltede attack further hampered for a match in which South Africa require a goal deluge.
Bartlett withdrew from Sunday's group 11 qualifier against the east Africans minnows with a groin strain, officials confirmed on Tuesday.
The injury was suffered while playing for Charlton Athletic at Fulham in Sunday's English premier league match at Loftus Road.
Bartlett's withdrawal comes after South Africa did not pick his usual national team partner Benni McCarthy, who was heavily critical last month of the football association's plans to force players to sign a contract that offers a reduced match fee when they appear for the South African side.
South Africa share the group with Burundi and the Ivory Coast, and Sunday's match in Bloemfontein is considered a strong opportunity for South Africa to build up a decent goal difference which could become vital later on in the qualifiers if their battle with the Ivorians for the only qualifying berth available from the group is as tight as predicted.
Coach Ephraim Mashaba, however, said he had no plans to call up a replacement, having named a 23-man squad for the match.
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| MANTORRAS BACK FOR ANGOLA
Angola striker Pedro Mantorras is in line to make his first appearance since January for his country after being named on Saturday in the squad to face Malawi in an African Nations Cup qualifier next Saturday.
Angola striker Pedro Mantorras is in line to make his first appearance since January for his country after being named on Saturday in the squad to face Malawi in an African Nations Cup qualifier next Saturday.
Mantorras missed last month's goalless draw with Nigeria in Luanda in the opening group one qualifier for the 2004 African championship, to be held in Tunisia.
But having made a return after injury with his Portuguese club Benfica, Angolan coach Ismael Kurtz named him in a 23-man squad to travel to Malawi. Angola must win the match in Lilongwe on October 12 to have any realistic chance of competing with Nigeria for the group's only qualifying berth.
Kurtz has again left out captain Akwa, who is Angola's all-time leading goal scorer, despite a howls of protest from the Angolan media after last month's 0-0 draw with the Nigerians.
Also omitted is another former Benfica player, the midfielder Marco Freitas, now with Portuguese second division side Salgueiros.
Angola's Squad:
Goalkeepers:Goliath (Primiero Agosto), Lama, Marito (both Petro Atletico)
Defenders:Bodunha (Sporting Braga, Portugal), Chinguila (Camacha da Madeira, Portugal), Delgado, Dias Caires, Didi (all Petro Atletico), Kali (Santa Clara, Portugal), Renato (Petro Atletico), Yamba Asha (AS Aviacao)
Midfielders:Andre (Academica Coimbra, Portugal), Bernardo (Nacional, Portugal), Filipe (Primiero Agosto), Gilberto (Al Ahli, Egypt), Jonas (Petro Atletico), Stopirra (Primiero Agosto)
Strikers:Avelino Lopes (Al Ahli, Egypt), Bruno Mauro (Pacos Ferreira, Portugal), Flavio (Petro Atletico), Lolo (Primiero Agosto), Mantorras (Benfica, Portugal), Mendonca (Varzim, Portugal)
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| MALAWI WANT MADUKA BACK
Malawi have named captain John Maduka in a 23-man squad for next weekend's African Nations Cup qualifier against Angola despite the South African-based midfielder announcing his retirement from international football.
Malawi have named captain John Maduka in a 23-man squad for next weekend's African Nations Cup qualifier against Angola despite the South African-based midfielder announcing his retirement from international football.
Coach Kim Splidsboel said on Friday he was hoping to persuade the midfielder to play in the group one qualifier against Angola in Lilongwe on October 12.
Maduka announced his retirement after Malawi's defeat last weekend in the Cosafa Castle Cup final. He has taken out South African citizenship and will forfeit his Malawian passport once he is issued with a South African document as Malawi does not allow dual nationality.
But the Danish coach said Maduka would be needed to inspire his young charges in Malawi's first match in the 2004 Nations Cup qualifying campaign.
Another South African-based player, Patrick Mabedi, has not been included after he also told officials he was quitting the international arena.
Malawi's Squad:
Goalkeepers:Navigator Dzinkambani (Bullets), Phillip Nyasulu (ADMARC Tigers), Swadick Sanudi (Bullets)
Defenders:Joseph Gatros (Bullets), Clement Kafwafwa (MDC United), Peter Mangani (Silver Strikers), Peter Mponda (Ottawa Wizards, Canada), Maupo Msowoya (MDC United), Lackson Mtambo (Red Lions), Itaye Nundwe, Manson Phiri (both Silver Strikers)
Midfielders:Fischer Kondowe (Bullets), John Maduka (Umtata Bush Bucks, South Africa), Peter Mgangira (Silver Strikers), Sherry Msuku (Wanderers), Frank Phiri (Red Lions), McDonald Yobe (Bullets)
Strikers:Dan Chitsulo (FC Cologne, Germany), Essau Kanyenda (Jomo Cosmos, South Africa), Heston Munthali, Mapopa Musukwa (both MDC United), Russell Mwafulirwa (Silver Strikers), Victor Phiri (Moyale Barracks)
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| MASHABA SLAMS HIS CAPTAIN
South Africa's new coach Ephraim Mashaba has accused captain Lucas Radebe and other foreign-based players of being dishonest and lacking national pride as they seek to alleged avoid call-ups to play for the national team.
South Africa's new coach Ephraim Mashaba has accused captain Lucas Radebe and other foreign-based players of being dishonest and lacking national pride as they seek to alleged avoid call-ups to play for the national team.
Mashaba launched his criticism in Johannesburg on Thursday when announcing his squad for next weekend's African Nations Cup qualifier against Burundi.
Mashaba said he had wanted to call up Radebe, who captained the team at the last two World Cup finals, for the match on October 13 but was forced to leave him out because of a lack of clarity over the defender's physical condition.
The outburst follows similar accusations last month when South African Football Association officials accused Radebe's English premier league club Leeds United of lying of over Radebe's condition when he missed the Nations Cup qualifier in the Ivory Coast though injury.
Mashaba said he had wanted Radebe to play in the match against Burundi in Bloemfontein on October 13 but could not take the chance.
"I feel there is some dishonesty in the player," he told reporters. "Correct me if I'm wrong, but FIFA rules state that if a player is called up, whether he is injured or not, he must travel back to his country to be checked and assesed," the coach added.
"But our guys just ignore this."
Mashaba then criticised another of South Africa's European-based players, the winger Delron Buckley from German club VfL Bochum.
"We called up Delron Buckley (for the last Nations Cup game in the Ivory Coast) but he did not reply to us for a week. Then call us to tell us he has a stomach bug and couldn't travel . a stomach bug, that's a joke," the coach added.
Buckley, who featured in a Bundesliga match two days after missing South Africa's game against the Ivorians, is in the squad named on Thursday for next Sunday's encounter against Burundi.
"We are putting players with no patriotism in the park. Let's now come to an agreement that if a player goes overseas, he must remain committed to his country," Mashaba said.
Last Saturday, South Africa won the regional Cosafa Castle Cup using a side of home-based players.
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| MAURITIUS NAME NATIONS CUP SQUAD
Mauritius have decided against calling up Crystal Palace youth team player Gavin Heeroo for next weekend's African Nations Cup qualifier at home to Madagascar.
Mauritius have decided against calling up Crystal Palace youth team player Gavin Heeroo for next weekend's African Nations Cup qualifier at home to Madagascar.
Heeroo, who had previously been invited to train with the team, was expected to be included in the squad for the first time after Mauritius approached the English-born striker earlier this year.
But coach Patrick Parizon left him out of a 22-man squad announced on Thursday that includes seven players from clubs outside of the country. Gilbert Bayaram, who plays in the second division on the neighbouring French-controlled island of Reunion, was a late call-up after an injury suffered by Jean-Noel Laboiteuse, officials said.
Mauritius host Madagascar on October 12 in their opening qualifier for the 2004 Nations Cup finals in Tunisia. Madagascar upset Egypt 1-0 last month in the opening match in group 10.
Mauritius' Squad:
Goalkeepers:Kersley Auguste (AS Rivire du Rempart), Nicolas Doro (Olympique Moka)
Defenders:Guillano Eduoard (US Beau Bassin/Rose Hill), Jean-Marie Fanny (Curepipe Starlight), Cyril Mourgine (AS Port Louis 2000), Giovanni Naboth (Savanne SC), Henri Speville, Dario Sutton (both AS Port Louis 2000), Gilbert Zuel (US Beau Bassin/Rose Hill)
Midfielders:Shanawaz Allybocus (Grand Port United), Jean Sebastien Bax (Santos, South Africa), Gilbert Bayaram (FC BŽnŽdictin, Reunion), Jimmy Cundasami (FC Avirons, Reunion), Kervin Godon (Maurice Espoir), Westley Laboucherie (Grand Port United), Desire Periatambee (Grenoble, France), Ashick Punchoo (Faucon Flacq SC)
Strikers:Kersley Appou (AS Port Louis 2000), Jerry Louis (AS Chaudron, Reunion), Ricardo Naboth (Jeanne d'Arc, Reunion), Robert Rateau (Excelsior, Reunion), Jean-Reck Ah-Fok (US Beau Bassin/Rose Hill)
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| BENNI BUMPED OFF SA TEAM
South Africa left out striker Benni McCarthy from their squad named on Thursday for next weekend's African Nations Cup qualifier against Burundi.
South Africa left out striker Benni McCarthy from their squad named on Thursday for next weekend's African Nations Cup qualifier against Burundi.
McCarthy, who plays for Spanish club Celta Vigo, had been told by officials last month he would not be picked again until he apologised for comments he made about the South African Football Association's attempts to get players to sign a new contract, which drastically cut their appearances fees.
McCarthy was highly critical of the contract offer on the eve of the South Africa's last Nations Cup qualifier in the Ivory Coast last month and left the team before the match, ostensibly because of injury.
Also missing for the game against Burundi in Bloemfontein on October 13 is injured captain Lucas Radebe, who also missed the goalless draw in Abidjan at the start of the 2004 Nations Cup qualifying campaign.
Coach Ephraim Mashaba has recalled six foreign-based players to supplement a squad largely based around the players who helped win the Cosafa Castle Cup last Saturday.
He also named three uncapped players - Phumlani Dindi of newly promoted Dynamos, defender Lucky Lekgwathi and striker Hareaipha Marumo from Mamelodi Sundowns.
Dindi two years ago considered taking out Malawian citizenship to pursue an international career with the country of his father's birth but was stymied by Malawi's refusal to allow him dual nationality.
South Africa's Squad:
Goalkeepers:Andre Arendse (Santos), Brian Baloyi (Kaizer Chiefs)
Defenders:Tony Coyle (Wits University), Jacob Lekgetho (Lokomotiv Moscow, Russia), Lucky Legwathi, Mbulelo Mabizela (both Orlando Pirates), Ashley Makhanya (Wits University), Aaron Mokoena (Germinal Beerschot, Belgium), Thabang Molefe (Lyn Oslo, Norway), Cyril Nzama (Kaizer Chiefs)
Midfielders:Delron Buckley (VfL Bochum, Germany), Phulani Dindi (Dynamos), Sam Magalefa (Jomo Cosmos), Goodman Mazibuko (Orlando Pirates), Tebeho Mokoena (Jomo Cosmos), Benedict Vilakazi (Orlando Pirates), Sibusiso Zuma (FC Copenhagen, Denmark), Japhet Zwane (Moroka Swallows)
Strikers:Shaun Bartlett (Charlton Athletic, England), Jimmy Kauleza (Orlando Pirates), Lebohang Kukame (Jomo Cosmos), Hareaipha Marumo (Mamelodi Sundowns), Patrick Mayo (SuperSport United)
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| SOUTH AFRICA'S 1-0 WIN OVER MALAWI
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| MALAWI FINED FOR BLANTYRE RIOT
The decisions of the Cosafa Castle Cup organising committee held in Durban on Friday:
The decisions of the Cosafa Castle Cup organising committee held in Durban on Friday:
South Africa v Swaziland - semifinal, 21 September
South African Football Association was fined US$1000 for failing to protect the sponsors' perimeter advertising which resulted in boards being damaged
Malawi v South Africa - final, first leg, 21 October
The committee found that the Football Association of Malawi had brought the game into disrepute in the following manner:
- the visiting team were prevented from training at the match venue
- the pre-match meeting was held up for 90 minutes due to poor organisation of the interpreter
- missile throwing by spectators resulted in the match being held up for seven minutes
It was the decision of the committee to levy a fine of US$5,500 against the Football Association of Malawi as a result of the above contraventions
The committee also fined South Africa US$500 for appearing in kit other than that provided by the sponsors ahead of the match
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LIST OF GOAL SCORERS IN THE COSAFA CASTLE CUP
List of goal scorers in the Cosafa Castle Cup:
2 - Essau Kanyenda (Malawi), Patrick Mayo, Tebeho Mokoena (both South Africa), Mfanzile Dlamini, Siza Dlamini (both Swaziland), Rotson Kilambe (Zambia)
1 - Jean-Yves Randriamarozaka, Francky Randrianansoloniaina, Elyse Razafindrakoto (all Madagsacar), Patrick Mabedi, Peter Mponda (both Malawi), Jean Sebastien Bax (Mauritius), Jossias, Mavo (both Mozambique), Ruben van Wyk (Namibia), Stanton Fredericks, Jimmy Kauleza, Jabu Pule (both South Africa), Sibusiso Dlamini (Swaziland), Chaswe Nsofwa (Zambia) |
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| BAFANA SET FOR FIRST TITLE
South Africa are perfectly positioned to claim their first regional title in a competition where their past performances have belied their top rankings.
South Africa are perfectly positioned to claim their first regional title in a competition where their past performances have belied their top rankings.
South Africa host Malawi in the second leg of the Cosafa Castle Cup in Durban on Saturday, leading 3-1 from the first leg in Blantyre last weekend. Ensuring a first-ever win in the annual southern African championship would seem a routine assignment for the South Africans, who have been the top ranked side in the region over the last five years but consistently failed in the past competitions.
In previous years, they have suffered embarrassing defeats at the hands of Namibia and Malawi and just once reached the semifinal stage, when they lost at home to Zimbabwe in 2000.
This year South Africa scrapped through the first two rounds, needing post-match penalty shootouts to see off unfancied opposition, but have since scored seven goals in two matches.
They had a convincing win in the first leg in Malawi but coach Ephraim Mashaba, set for his first trophy after just two months in charge, has warned his players against the pitfalls of complacency.
"The mood is positive but anything is possible in football," he said. Mashaba is expected to shuffle his team around in a bid to look at new combinations ahead of the African Nations Cup qualifier against Burundi in a fortnight.
He has only home-based players for Saturday's while Malawi have a full-strength side for the game.
Malawi were disappointing in the first leg, where a home crowd of 60,000 rioted at the end of the match in reaction to their home defeat. They were also making their first appearance in the final after seven unbeaten matches this year.
Danish-born coach Kim Splidsboel suggested Saturday's game would provide an opportunity for several of his players to impress scouts from South African clubs, who have regularly signed top Malawian talent over the last two decades.
He has dropped his goalkeeper Navigator Dzinkambani, whose mistakes led to two of South Africa's goals in Blantyre, and four other players from the first leg squad.
Saturday's final is to be followed by the draw for the first round of next year's competition.
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| MALAWI CHANGE THEIR MINDS
Malawi have changed their minds and on Tuesday dropped goalkeeper Navigator Dzinkambani and three others for the return leg of the Cosafa Castle Cup final against South Africa on Saturday.
Malawi have changed their minds and on Tuesday dropped goalkeeper Navigator Dzinkambani and three others for the return leg of the Cosafa Castle Cup final against South Africa on Saturday.
Dzinkambani was blamed for two of the goals in Malawi's 1-3 defeat at the hands of the South Africans in the first leg of the final, played in Blantyre last Saturday.
But the goalkeeper had originally been kept in the squad for the second leg, named on Sunday but has now been dropped along with Canadian-based defender Peter Mponda fort the return leg.
Also out of the squad is right back Lackson Mtambo, taken off at half-time of a disappointing first leg performance, as Malawi made late changes to their travelling party before setting out for Durban on Wednesday.
The fourth change is the replacement of reserve striker Steve Bakali by the uncapped Russel Mwafulirwa, who scored for Malawi's under-23 side against their South African counterparts in an All-Africa Games qualifier on Sunday.
Malawi's Squad:
Goalkeepers:Navigator Dzinkambani (Bullets), Phillip Nyasulu (ADMARC Tigers)
Defenders:Joseph Gatros (Bullets), Patrick Mabedi (Kaizer Chiefs, South Africa), Peter Mponda (Ottawa Wizards, Canada), Maupo Msowoya (MDC United), Lackson Mtambo (Red Lions), Itaye Nundwe (Silver Strikers)
Midfielders:Fischer Kondowe (Bullets), John Maduka (Umtata Bush Bucks, South Africa), Peter Mgangira (Silver Strikers), Sherry Msuku (Wanderers), Victor Phiri (Moyale Barracks), McDonald Yobe (Bullets)
Strikers:Steve Bakali (Police XI, Botswana), Dan Chitsulo (FC Cologne, Germany), Essau Kanyenda (Jomo Cosmos, South Africa), Heston Munthali (MDC United)
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| SOCCER - SOUTH AFRICA HOST SENEGAL
:Soccer - South Africa host Senegal in friendly international
JOHANNESBURG, Sept 23 (Reuters)
:Soccer - South Africa host Senegal in friendly international
JOHANNESBURG, Sept 23 (Reuters) - South Africa will play World Cup quarter-finalists Senegal in Johannesburg on November 19, officials confirmed on Monday.
The match will be for the annual Nelson Mandela Inauguration Challenge, which has previously seen South Africa celebrate the election of its first black president with matches against Argentina, Brazil, France and the Netherlands.
It will be the first meeting between the two countries, who were among the five African representatives at the World Cup finals in Asia earlier this year.
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| MALAWI STAY THE SAME
Malawi have kept the same 18-man squad for the return leg of the Cosafa Castle Cup despite a 3-1 defeat by South Africa on Saturday.
Malawi have kept the same 18-man squad for the return leg of the Cosafa Castle Cup despite a 3-1 defeat by South Africa on Saturday.
Coach Kim Splidsboel on Sunday named his squad for the return match in Durban this coming weekend, keeping faith with the players that did duty in the first leg in Blantyre.
Included was goalkeeper Navigator Dzinkambani, whose errors allowed South Africa to take a comfortable two-goal lead into the second leg, to be played on Saturday, September 28.
Malawi's Squad:
Goalkeepers:Navigator Dzinkambani (Bullets), Phillip Nyasulu (ADMARC Tigers)
Defenders:Joseph Gatros (Bullets), Patrick Mabedi (Kaizer Chiefs, South Africa), Peter Mponda (Ottawa Wizards, Canada), Maupo Msowoya (MDC United), Lackson Mtambo (Red Lions), Itaye Nundwe (Silver Strikers)
Midfielders:Fischer Kondowe (Bullets), John Maduka (Umtata Bush Bucks, South Africa), Peter Mgangira (Silver Strikers), Sherry Msuku (Wanderers), Victor Phiri (Moyale Barracks), McDonald Yobe (Bullets)
Strikers:Steve Bakali (Police XI, Botswana), Dan Chitsulo (FC Cologne, Germany), Essau Kanyenda (Jomo Cosmos, South Africa), Heston Munthali (MDC United)
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| ONE CHANGE TO SA TEAM
Uncapped defender Lucky Lekgwati has been called up to South Africa's squad in a single change to the side for the second leg of the Cosafa Castle Cup final against Malawi, coach Ephraim Mashaba said on Sunday.
Uncapped defender Lucky Lekgwati has been called up to South Africa's squad in a single change to the side for the second leg of the Cosafa Castle Cup final against Malawi, coach Ephraim Mashaba said on Sunday.
The Orlando Pirates defender replaces Thabang Molefe, who returns to his Norwegian club Lyn Oslo and is unavailable for the match in Durban next Saturday.
Molefe played a key role in South Africa's 3-1 victory in the first leg in Blantyre on Saturday. He was one of only three players who went o the World Cup in June that were used in the match against Malawi, where Mashaba experimented with home-based players and used five previously uncapped players in the game.
South Africa, the top ranked side in the region, are attempting to win the southern African championship for the first time.
South Africa's Squad:
Goalkeepers:Andre Arendse (Santos), Brain Baloyi (Kaizer Chiefs)
Defenders:Tony Coyle (Wits University), Lucky Lekgwati, Mbulelo Mabizela (both Orlando Pirates), Ashley Makhanya (Wits University), Gary McNab (Moroka Swallows), Cyril Nzama (Kaizer Chiefs) Mandla Zwane (SuperSport United)
Midfielders:Peter Khoabane (SuperSport United), Sam Magalefa (Jomo Cosmos), Goodman Mazibuko (Orlando Pirates), Charles Motlohi, Isaac Shai (both Mamelodi Sundowns), Benedict Vilakazi (Orlando Pirates), Japhet Zwane (Moroka Swallows)
Strikers:Jimmy Kauleza (Orlando Pirates), Lebogang Kukame (Jomo Cosmos), Jason Lakay (Lamontville Golden Arrows), Patrick Mayo (SuperSport United)
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| MAYO SCORED TWICE FOR SA WIN
South African striker Patrick Mayo profited from two goalkeeping blunders to hand South Africa a 3-1 away win in Malawi in the first leg of the Cosafa Castle Cup in Blantyre on Saturday.
South African striker Patrick Mayo profited from two goalkeeping blunders to hand South Africa a 3-1 away win in Malawi in the first leg of the Cosafa Castle Cup in Blantyre on Saturday.
Malawian goalkeeper Navigator Dzinkambani gifted the tall forward two goals to set the visitors up for their first ever title in the annual southern African championship.
First, Dzinkambani dropped a bouncing ball just before half-time to allow Mayo to head from close range and then in the second half mistimed his run off his line as Mayo eased past him to steer the ball into an empty.
The result gives South Africa, the top ranked side in the region, a major advantage going into the second leg of the final in Durban next Saturday. A third goal for the visitors two minutes from set off widespread stone throwing from a disappointed home crowd, who numbered more than 60,000 and had filled the stadium from five hours before the kick off.
The game had to be halted for just over five minutes before riot police calmed the situation and the referee could complete the last three minutes of action.
Malawi, who have risen up 27 places on the FIFA rankings in the last three months, had high expectations going into the game against a new-look South Africa side, with four uncapped players in their starting line-up and just three players from the squad that played at the World Cup finals in South Korea in June.
But South Africa scored first in the 42nd minute when Isaac Shai's cross bounced out of Dzinkambani's hand and onto the head of a grateful Mayo for the opening goal.
Malawi equalised in stoppage time at the end of the first half when Thabang Molefe handled in his own area and former Malawi captain Patrick Mabedi, playing his first international in 14 months, scored from the penalty spot. Mayo got his second when he chased down a long past, knocked the ball past the onrushing goalkeeper and side footed home.
He might have had a hat trick in the 88th minute but elected to pass square to Jimmy Kauleza, who finished for South Africa's third goal.
"I would have been happy with a draw but this result was beyond my expectations," said South Africa's coach Ephraim Mashaba.
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| SOUTH AFRICA'S 3-1 WIN OVER MALAWI
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| KANYENDA HOLDS KEY TO FINAL
Teenage striker Essau Kanyenda will take centre stage on Saturday as Malawi hosts South Africa in the first leg of the Cosafa Castle Cup final in Blantyre.
Teenage striker Essau Kanyenda will take centre stage on Saturday as Malawi hosts South Africa in the first leg of the Cosafa Castle Cup final in Blantyre.
The 19-year-old leads Malawi's attack against players he competes with on a weekly basis in the South African premier league and carries the hopes of the host nation, seeking a win to take to the return leg in Durban on September 28.
Kanyenda, who will be 20 next week, plays for the South African club Jomo Cosmos and last season set a record by scoring in nine successive premier league games. Last weekend, he notched a hat trick for Cosmos in a league match before flying home to Malawi to join up with his compatriots.
His goal scoring form has also extended to Malawi, where he scored in both their quarter-final win over defending champions Angola and in the semifinal against neighbours Zambia.
Kanyenda's reputation will ensure a close watch by South Africa's defenders, said coach Ephraim Mashaba on Friday.
South Africa have a home-based squad for the match, save for the Norwegian-based defender Thabang Molefe, who is one of three who played for the country at the World Cup finals in South Korea in June.
"I still think it's a good team although we are feeling the pressure," said Mashaba on the eve of the final.
For Malawi, their progress in the annual regional competition has seen a dramatic climb up the FIFA world rankings, moving up 27 places in the last three months.
Wednesday's latest rankings saw Malawi move up to 11 places to 95 in the world, the first time they have broken in the world's top 100.
Coach Kim Splidsboel said his young team had the makings of a powerful side. "We have done incredibly well over the last year and I think this side has the potential to do a lot better, even cause a few upsets in the upcoming African Nations Cup qualifiers against Angola and Nigeria."
The Danish coach, whose contract ends in December, said Malawi's progress to the final had been "outstanding" "We haven't been to a final for 15 years and this is a big day for us. We want to win so that we have a lead to take to South Africa for the second leg," said Splidsboel.
Malawi won the East and Central African Senior Challenge Cup three times while playing in that regional event, before the Cosafa organisation was formed for countries in southern Africa.
Saturday's appearance in the Cosafa final is the first for both Malawi and South Africa, who have been the top ranked side in the region but regularly failed in the annual competition.
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| BOTSWANA HAVE NEW COACH
Botswana have appointed the Yugoslav coach Vesselin Jelusic to handle their national team, the Botswana Football Association announced on Wednesday.
Botswana have appointed the Yugoslav coach Vesselin Jelusic to handle their national team, the Botswana Football Association announced on Wednesday.
He has been given a two-year contract, officials said, and will start immediately with Botswana due to play away against the Democratic Republic of Congo in an African Nations Cup qualifier in Kinshasa on October 13.
Botswana drew with opening match in qualifying group nine at home against Swaziland.
Jelusic replaces Stanley Tshoswane as coach. The Yugoslav's previous experience in Africa includes seven matches in charge of Angola in 1998 and 1999, working with the Angolan under-23 side for a longer period and also coaching Luanda club AS Aviacao.
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| SA DROP TOBEHO AND STANTON
South Africa have dropped World Cup midfielder Tebeho Mokoena and Stanton Fredericks of Kaizer Chiefs from their squad for Saturday's first leg of the Cosafa Castle Cup final against Malawi in Blantyre.
South Africa have dropped World Cup midfielder Tebeho Mokoena and Stanton Fredericks of Kaizer Chiefs from their squad for Saturday's first leg of the Cosafa Castle Cup final against Malawi in Blantyre.
Mokoena was left out of the squad that travelled to Blantyre on Monday because he was struggling with injury, officials said.
The former Swiss-based midfielder scored twice in South Africa's 4-1 semifinal win over Swaziland last month Fredericks, also a midfielder, was dropped after it was decided to cut the travelling squad down from 22 to 20.
Both Malawi and South Africa have reached the final of the annual southern African championship for the first time.
The second leg will be played in Durban on September 28.
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| CUP FINAL CAUTIONS
Both Malawi and South Africa have several players on booking each going into the first leg of the Cosafa Castle Cup final in Blantyre on Saturday. If any of the following players receives another caution in the match, then they will be ineligible for the return leg of the final in Durban on September 28:
Both Malawi and South Africa have several players on booking each going into the first leg of the Cosafa Castle Cup final in Blantyre on Saturday. If any of the following players receives another caution in the match, then they will be ineligible for the return leg of the final in Durban on September 28:
Malawi:
Joseph Gatros, Essau Kanyenda, John Maduka, Peter Mgangira, Maupo Msowoya, Heston Munthali.
South Africa:
Matthew Booth, Stanton Fredericks, Clement Mazibuko, Jabu Pule. Note that only Fredericks has been called up by South Africa for the first leg of the final in Blantyre
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MALAWI v SOUTH AFRICA NOTES
- Today's match will be the sixth meeting between the two countries with South Africa having had the upper hand over Malawi in the five previous encounters. South Africa have won four times, all of them in World Cup qualifiers, while the Flames beat Bafana Bafana in last year's COSAFA CASTLE CUP quarterfinal.
- Today's match will be the sixth meeting between the two countries with South Africa having had the upper hand over Malawi in the five previous encounters. South Africa have won four times, all of them in World Cup qualifiers, while the Flames beat Bafana Bafana in last year's COSAFA CASTLE CUP quarterfinal.
- South Africa won their first two matches at Chichiri stadium, first in 1996 and then again last year in their successful World Cup qualification campaigns. But their third trip to Blantyre saw then lose 1-0 in the last eight of the COSAFA CASTLE CUP.
- Malawi play their eighth international of the year, having won seven and drawing the other. They defeated COSAFA CASTLE CUP defending champions Angola in the quarter-final in May and upset heavily fancied Zambia in the semifinals last month.
- South Africa play their 19th international of the year, having already competed in two major tournaments; the African Nations Cup finals in Mali and the World Cup finals in South Korea. They have won seven, drawn seven and lost four of their 18 matches played this year so far.
- South Africa reached the semifinals of this year's COSAFA CASTLE CUP without winning a single game or scoring a single goal before beating Swaziland 4-1 in the last four. In the first round they beat Botswana on post-match penalties after a goalless draw and in the quarterfinal tie in Port Elizabeth in July they also needed a penalty shootout to overcome Madagascar after a goalless draw.
- Malawi compete in their 16th COSAFA CASTLE CUP game since the tournament was launched in March 1997. They won the first-ever match in the annual regional competition by beating Botswana 4-1 away in Gaborone in 1997. Their record stands now at six wins, four draws and five losses, three of them at home.
- South Africa are competing in their 12th COSAFA CASTLE CUP game today, some way off the record 19 matches held jointly by Namibia and Zambia. South Africa have won five of the previous 11 COSAFA CASTLE CUP encounters with three draws and three losses.
- South Africa are ranked 72 places above Malawi in the latest FIFA rankings, which were issued on August 14. South Africa moved one place up to 32nd while Malawi continued their dramatic rise, going up eight places for the second successive month to 106.
- Today's referee is Harris Shikapande of Zambia, who takes charge of a COSAFA CASTLE CUP match for the third time. He handled South Africa's first round match in Botswana earlier this year and also conducted Malawi's 2-2 draw with Namibia in Blantyre in May, 1999.
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| CHITSULO RECALLED BY MALAWI
Malawi have recalled German-based striker Daniel Chitsulo for next weekend's Cosafa Castle Cup final, drafting the diminutive forward from FC Cologne back into the squad for the first time this year.
Malawi have recalled German-based striker Daniel Chitsulo for next weekend's Cosafa Castle Cup final, drafting the diminutive forward from FC Cologne back into the squad for the first time this year.
Chitsulo was among 25 players named by coach Kim Splidsboel for next Saturday's first leg against South Africa in Blantyre. The list was released by the Football Association of Malawi on Friday.
Chitsulo has not played for Malawi since August last year but will be a likely starter in the match on September 21.
Also returning to the team is captain Patrick Mabedi, who fractured a bone in his leg in April, and the fullback Peter Mponda, who missed Malawi's semifinal win over Zambia last month after putting his new Canadian club Ottawa Wizards ahead of a national team call-up.
Splidsboel said he would trim the squad next week. South Africa named their 22-man group on Thursday. The two sides meet again in Durban on September 28 in the second leg of the final.
Malawi's Squad:
Goalkeepers:Navigator Dzinkambani (Bullets), Tyron Mandani (Silver Strikers), Phillip Nyasulu (ADMARC Tigers), Swadick Sanudi (Bullets)
Defenders:Joseph Gatros (Bullets), Clement Kafwafwa (MDC United), Patrick Mabedi (Kaizer Chiefs, South Africa), Peter Mponda (Ottawa Wizards, Canada), Matembo Msowoya (Wanderers), Maupo Msowoya (MDC United), Lackson Mtambo (Red Lions), Itaye Nundwe (Silver Strikers), Manson Phiri (Silver Strikers)
Midfielders:Fischer Kondowe (Bullets), John Maduka (Umtata Bush Bucks, South Africa), Peter Mgangira (Silver Strikers), Sherry Msuku (Wanderers), Victor Phiri (Moyale Barracks), McDonald Yobe (Bullets)
Strikers:Steve Bakali (Police XI, Botswana), Dan Chitsulo (FC Cologne, Germany), Essau Kanyenda (Jomo Cosmos, South Africa), Heston Munthali (MDC United), Russell Mwafulirwa (Silver Strikers), Jones Nkhwazi (Bullets)
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| BAFANA BLACKLIST BENNI
South Africa will no longer pick striker Benni McCarthy for their nation al team after he refused to sign a new contract with the South African Football Association last week, officials said on Friday.
South Africa will no longer pick striker Benni McCarthy for their nation al team after he refused to sign a new contract with the South African Football Association last week, officials said on Friday.
McCarthy, 24,will not be selected for future teams until the contract is signed, said SAFA chief operating officer Albert Mokoena.
Last week, the Spanish-based striker refused to accept the terms of a new contract, which stipulates new fee structures for national team appearances and commercial obligations.
South African have drastically cut the match fee they pay their players from a minimum of around US$2,000 per match to just over US$250.
McCarthy had a row with officials last week over the contract on the eve of South Africa's African Nations Cup qualifier with the Ivory Coast in Abidjan. He later pulled out of the squad ahead of the match with an injury.
McCarthy, who plays for Celta Vigo, has scored 20 goals in 47 appearances for South Africa and scored inn two successive World Cup finals.
Veteran goalkeeper Andre Arendse, who captained the team in their goalless draw in Abidjan, has also said he has not signed the contract, but was included in the country's squad for next weekend's Cosafa Castle Cup final, first leg game in Malawi.
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| BAFANA SQUAD FOR FINAL
South Africa will use an almost exclusively home-based squad of 22 for their trip to Malawi for next weekend's first leg of the Cosafa Castle Cup final, coach Ephraim Mashaba announced on Thursday.
South Africa will use an almost exclusively home-based squad of 22 for their trip to Malawi for next weekend's first leg of the Cosafa Castle Cup final, coach Ephraim Mashaba announced on Thursday.
Mashaba had earlier hinted at drafting in a few of the country's foreign-based players for the match in Blantyre on September 21, but named only Norwegian-based fullback Thabang Molefe in his squad for the game.
South Africa, despite being the top ranked side in the region, are making their debut in the final of the annual southern African championship. They host the return leg of the final in Durban on September 28, presenting Mashaba with a chance to win a trophy just a month after taking over as coach.
The squad for the first leg sees five players receiving a first call-up and the squad includes six uncapped players. There are four players in the side who went to the World Cup finals.
South Africa's Squad:
Goalkeepers:Andre Arendse (Santos), Brian Baloyi (Kaizer Chiefs)
Defenders:Tony Coyle (Wits University), Mbulelo Mabizela (Orlando Pirates), Ashley Makhanya (Wits University), Gary McNab (Moroka Swallows), Cyril Nzama (Kaizer Chiefs), Thabang Molefe (Lyn Oslo, Norway), Mandla Zwane (Supersport United)
Midfielders:Stanton Fredericks (Kaizer Chiefs), Peter Khoabane (SuperSport United), Sam Magalefa (Jomo Cosmos), Goodman Mazibuko (Orlando Pirates), Tebeho Mokoena (Jomo Cosmos), Charles Motlohi, Isaac Shai (both Mamelodi Sundowns), Benedict Vilakazi (Orlando Pirates), Japhet Zwane (Moroka Swallows)
Strikers:Jason Lakay (Lamontville Golden Arrows), Lebohang Kukame (Jomo Cosmos), Jimmy Kauleza (Orlando Pirates), Patrick Mayo (SuperSport United)
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| DURBAN TO HOST FINAL SECOND LEG
Durban will host the second leg of the Cosafa Castle Cup final later this month when South Africa host Malawi on September 28.
Durban will host the second leg of the Cosafa Castle Cup final later this month when South Africa host Malawi on September 28.
The decision to play the match in the coastal city, where South Africa's national team have traditionally always attracted the largest crowds, came as no surprise when announced by football association officials on Tuesday.
Malawi host the first leg of the final in Blantyre on September 21.
The competition is the annual southern African championship and both Malawi and South Africa are playing in the final for the first time.
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| MATCH OFFICIALS FOR FINAL
COSAFA have announced the appointments of match officials for the final of Cosafa Castle Cup between Malawi and South Africa:
COSAFA have announced the appointments of match officials for the final of Cosafa Castle Cup between Malawi and South Africa:
| First Leg - Malawi vs South Africa |
| 21 September |
Blantyre |
| Referee: |
Harris Shikapane (Zambia) |
| Assistant Referees: |
Andrew Chungu,
Kenneth Chichenga (both Zambia) |
| Fourth Official: |
James Dumba (Malawi) |
| Match Commissioner: |
Delcio Costa (Angola) |
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| Second Leg - Malawi vs South Africa |
| 28 September |
Durban or Mmabatho |
| Referee: |
Joseph Musasa (Zimbabwe) |
| Assistant Referee: |
Nelson Kusosa,
Alfred Zindove (both Zimbabwe) |
| Fourth Official: |
Simon Ngutshana (South Africa) |
| Match Commissioner: |
Adam Mthethwa (Swaziland) |
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| MOZAMBIQUE SQUAD FOR CAN OPENER
Benfica defender Armando has been included in Mozambique's squad for next weekend's African Nations Cup qualifier away in the Central African Republic which will mark his first match for the country in more than two years.
Benfica defender Armando has been included in Mozambique's squad for next weekend's African Nations Cup qualifier away in the Central African Republic which will mark his first match for the country in more than two years.
Armando is one of four Portuguese-based players named in a 25-man squad by coach Augusto Matine on Friday. The others are Paito, the fullback from Sporting Lisbon, Goncalves Fumo of Farense and Academica striker Dario.
Matine has made a major clean-out of his squad after the 3-0 loss to Zambia in last month's Cosafa Castle Cup quarter-final, including dropping captain Tico-Tico, the striker from South Africa club Jomo Cosmos.
Mozambique's Squad:
Goalkeepers:Jaimito (Maxaquene), Kampango (Ferrovario Maputo), Victor (Maxquene)
Defenders:Alberto (Maxaquene), Armando (Benfica, Portugal), Kito (Ferrovario Maputo), Macamo, Marito (both Maxaquene), Paito (Sporting Lisbon, Portugal), Pascoal (Costa do Sol)
Midfielders:Custodio (Matchedje), Genito (Maxaquene), Goncalves Fumo (Farense, Portugal), Jossias (Kaizer Chiefs, South Africa), Mabui (Maxaquene), Mano (Desportivo Maputo), Mauricio (Ferrovario Maputo), Nelinho (Costa do Sol)
Strikers:Bino (Chingale), Dario (Academica Coimbra, Portugal), Leonel (Ferrovario Quelimane), Mavo (Costa do Sol), Rito (Ferrovario Quelimane), To (Costa do Sol), Zito (Ferrovario Maputo)
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| BARTLETT BACK FOR BAFANA
South Africa have recalled their leading goal scorer Shaun Bartlett after a long injury lay-off to lead the attack in next weekend's African Nations Cup qualifier in the Ivory Coast.
South Africa have recalled their leading goal scorer Shaun Bartlett after a long injury lay-off to lead the attack in next weekend's African Nations Cup qualifier in the Ivory Coast.
Bartlett has not played for South Africa since suffering an ankle injury at the African Nations Cup finals in Mali in January and has seen little game time with his English-based club Charlton Athletic since an operation in May.
But South Africa's new coach Ephraim Mashaba named him among 11 European-based players in his 18-man squad for the opening group 11 qualifier on September 8.
All but five of the squad were at the World Cup in June, where South Africa failed to make past the first round. Among them is captain Lucas Radebe, who has only returned to action with his English side Leeds United after more than a year out with injury.
Mashaba has kept eight players from the squad that beat Swaziland 4-1 in the Cosafa Castled Cup semifinal last Saturday.
The team depart for Abidjan on Monday with the European-based contingent to join their compatriots on Wednesday, officials said.
South Africa's Squad:
Goalkeepers:Andre Arendse (Santos), Brian Baloyi (Kaizer Chiefs)
Defenders:Jacob Lekgetho ((Lokomotiv Moscow, Russia), Gary McNab (Moroka Swallows), Thabang Molefe (Lyn Oslo, Norway), Aaron Mokoena (Germinal Beerschot, Belgium), Cyril Nzama (Kaizer Chiefs), Lucas Radebe (Leeds United, England)
Midfielders:Delron Buckley (VfL Bochum, Germany), Teboho Mokoena (Jomo Cosmos), Jabu Pule (Kaizer Chiefs), MacBeth Sibaya (Rosenborg, Norway), Benedict Vilakazi (Orlando Pirates), Sibusiso Zuma (FC Copenhagen, Denmark)
Strikers:Shaun Bartlett (Charlton Athletic, England), Jimmy Kauleza (Orlando Pirates), Benni McCarthy (Celta Vigo, Spain), Nkosinathi Nhleko (SK Brann, Norway), Siyabonga Nomvete (Udinese, Italy)
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| NDLOVU TO LEAD ZIMBABWE
Veteran striker Peter Ndlovu has been named to lead Zimbabwe's squad for next month's African Nations Cup qualifier against Mali, officials said on Monday.
Veteran striker Peter Ndlovu has been named to lead Zimbabwe's squad for next month's African Nations Cup qualifier against Mali, officials said on Monday. The Sheffield United forward is one of eight foreign-based players named by coach Sunday Marimo for the match in Harare on September 8. Marimo has recalled Swiss-based fullback Harlington Shereni for the first time in two years but stuck mainly with a group of young players, who featured in two recent friendlies against Malawi. There are six uncapped players in the 33-man squad, which is to be cut by the weekend. Zimbabwe, after a series of narrow misses, are seeking to qualify for the Nations Cup finals for the first time. Mali, who were semifinalists at the last finals tournament, pose the most serious threat to Zimbabwe's hopes in the group, which also includes Eritrea and the Seychelles. Only the group winner qualifies for the 2004 finals in Tunisia.
Zimbabwe's Squad:
Goalkeepers:Chenjerai Dube (Wankie), Energy Murambadoro (CAPS United), Tapuwa Kapini (Highlanders)
Defenders:Itai Gwandu (CAPS United), Lenny Gwata (Dynamos), Allan Johnson (Motor Action), Dazzy Kapenya (Highlanders), Leo Kurauzvione (Dynamos), Francis Madziva (Sporting Lions), James Matola (Dynamos), George Mbwando (Alemannia Aachen, Germany), Dumisani Mpofu (Umtata Bush Bucks, South Africa), Thulani Ncube (Ajax Cape Town, South Africa), Rowan Nenzou (Black Rhinos), David Sengu (CAPS United), Harlington Shereni (SC Delemont, Switzerland), Kaitano Tembo (SuperSport United, South Africa)
Midfielders:Richard Choruma (Highlanders), Gift Kamuriwo, Lazarus Muhoni (both Black Rhinos), Tonderayi Ndiraya (Dynamos), Johannes Ngodzo (Highlanders), Esrom Nyandoro (AmaZulu), Calistus Pasuwa (Sporting Lions), Ronald Sibanda (AmaZulu)
Strikers:Maxwell Dube (Chapungu), Newton Katanha (SV Bad Bleiberg, Austria), Musa Mguni (Motor Action), Benjamin Mwaruwaru (Auxerre, France), Adam Ndlovu (Highlanders), Peter Ndlovu (Sheffield United, England), Mike Temwanjira, Leonard Tsipa (both CAPS United)
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| MADGASCAR NAME SQUAD TO FACE EGYPT
Madagascar have called up a 36-year-old uncapped striker in their 20-man squad for next month's African Nations Cup qualifier against Egypt.
Madagascar have called up a 36-year-old uncapped striker in their 20-man squad for next month's African Nations Cup qualifier against Egypt.
Striker Rene Ngom Ramboazafy is one of seven uncapped players in an 18-man squad announced by officials on Monday for the match in Antananarivo on September 7. He plays for club side Domoina Soavino Astimondrano, based in the capital Antananarivo.
The striker came on a substitute at the weekend as Madagascar's national team warmed up with a 3-2 win over club side AS Jirama at Fianarantsoa.
"He's the best player in the league this year," said Aurelien Andriamalaziany, vice president of Malagasy football federation on Monday.
The match against Egypt will also mark the debut for Madagascar's new Swiss-born coach Hans Heiniger, appointed last week.
Madagascar's Squad:
Goalkeepers:Jean Chrysostome Raharison (Domoina Soavino Astimondrano), Bruno Rajaozara (AS Adema)
Defenders:Clement Herinjaka (Tfc Tanambao), Solofo Doudou Nandrianina (US Ambohidratrimo), Jimmy Radafison (Stade Olympique Emyrne), Eric-Julien Rakotondrabe, Olivier Rakotondranoro (both Stade Olympique Emyrne), Ando Ramarojaona, Norbert Randrianoelsion (both Domoina Soavino Astimondrano), Mamisoa Razafindrakoto (Stade Olympique Emyrne)
Midfielders:Jose Andrianatonisolo (Domoina Soavino Astimondrano), Dominique Rakotondraibe (AS Jirama Fianarantsoa), Jose Suzon Ramamonjiarison (US Ambohidratrimo), Juvence Rija (Stade Olympique Emyrne)
Strikers:Solofoniaina Raharison (US Ambohidratrimo), Nicolas Rakotoarimanana (Stade Olympique Emyrne), Patrick Rajaobary, Rene N'gom Ramboazafy (both Domoina Soavino Astimondrano), Solohery Rasoanaivo (Stade Olympique Emyrne), Hubert Robson (USJF)
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| SOUTH AFRICA'S 1-0 WIN OVER SWAZILAND
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