7, October 2025
“AFCON will go ahead in Morocco despite anti-government protests” 0
African football boss Patrice Motsepe said on Monday he is “absolutely confident” the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations will go ahead in Morocco, the scene of daily anti-government protests for more than a week.
Young Moroccans took to the streets on Sunday for a ninth straight night of protests, calling for an end to corruption and a change of government.
The protesters have demanded reforms to social services, especially health and education, and voiced anger over social inequality.
Morocco is scheduled to stage the Cup of Nations (AFCON) from December 21 to January 18 at nine venues, with 24 national teams competing in the premier African football competition.
Stars like Egypt and Liverpool striker Mohamed Salah and Morocco and Paris Saint-Germain defender Achraf Hakimi are among the players set to participate.
Speaking during an annual gathering of African football bosses in Kinshasa, Confederation of African Football president Motsepe said: “We (CAF) are absolutely confident the AFCON will go ahead as planned.
“Morocco is plan A, Morocco is plan B and Morocco is plan C,” he told his audience, including FIFA president Gianni Infantino.
“CAF will co-operate and work with the government and all the citizens of Morocco to host the most successful AFCON in history,” said Motsepe, a South African billionaire businessman.
Morocco hosted the 1988 AFCON – then an eight-nation tournament – and withdrew as hosts of the 2015 version citing Ebola virus fears.
Source: AFP



















4, November 2025
Football: David Beckham receives knighthood 0
Former England captain Sir David Beckham has been formally knighted for his services to football and British society.
The 50-year-old, who was named on King Charles’ Birthday Honours list earlier this year, was knighted by the King during a ceremony in Berkshire on Tuesday.
“I couldn’t be prouder,” said Beckham. “People know how patriotic I am – I love my country.
“I’ve always said how important the monarchy is to my family.
“I’m lucky enough to have travelled around the world and all people want to talk to me about is our monarchy. It makes me proud.”
Beckham was joined by his wife Victoria and his parents Sandra and David at Windsor Castle.
Victoria, who received an OBE in 2017 for services to the fashion industry, designed and made the suit that her husband wore at the castle.
“[King Charles] was quite impressed with my suit,” said Beckham.
“He’s the most elegantly dressed man that I know, so he inspired quite a few of my looks over the years and he definitely inspired this look.
“It was something that my wife made me.
“I looked at old pictures of him when he was quite young in morning suits and I was like ‘OK, that’s what I want to wear’ – so I gave it to my wife and she did it.”
Beckham played 115 times for his country and captained the Three Lions for six years between 2000 and 2006.
The former Manchester United and Real Madrid midfielder featured in three World Cups for England, as well as two European Championships.
Source: BBC