Africa for beginners!!!

[McNasara]

I'm really not happy with my performance, in games of African national teams recently. In this thread, I'll try to improve my knowledge and that all relevant information for betting in Africa share with you. Please be patient, this could take a long time. ;)

Time zones

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National competitions

CECAFA Cup - the oldest tournament includes 12 national teams from East Africa. Uganda and Kenya are the most successful teams. All Africa Games - competition with the U23 teams takes place once in four years. Cameroon is the most successful team. African Nations Championship - the tournament is held every two years beetwen national teams with home based players. Africa Cup of Nations - the main international competition is held every two years. Egypt is the most successful nation. WC qualification - 1st round (24 lowest-ranked teams), 2nd round (12 winners joined the remaining 28 teams in 10 groups of 4), 3rd round (the 5 winners of 10 group winners will advance to the WC). ------------------------------------------

League ranking

--------------------------------------------------- Due to the geographical size of Africa, CAF is divided into five regional federations: North Africa - http://www.unaf-foot.com/ (Algeria, Egypt, Libya, Morocco and Tunisia). West Africa - Zone A(Cape Verde, Mali, Gambia, Mauritania, Guinea, Senegal, Guinea-Bissau, Sierra Leone, Liberia). Zone B (Benin, Nigeria, Burkina Faso, Togo, Côte d'Ivoire, Ghana and Niger). Central Africa - (Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Congo, Congo DR, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon and São Tomé & Príncipe). East Africa - http://www.cecafafootball.org/ (Burundi, Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda and Zanzibar). South Africa - http://www.cosafa.com/ (Angola, Botswana, Comoros, Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Seychelles, Swaziland, Zambia and Zimbabwe).

[McNasara]

Re: Africa for beginners... Algeria (Fennec Foxes) http://www.faf.dz/ FIFA (CAF) ranking: 34 (5) WC appearances: 3 (1982, 1986, 2010) ACN appearances: 14 (Winner 1990) Stadiums and weather: Stade 5 Juillet 1962, Algiers - 80,000 http://www.myweather2.com/Football/Algeria/MC-Algiers-National-Stadium.aspx Stade Mustapha Tchaker, Blida - 35,000 http://www.myweather2.com/Football/Algeria/USM-Blida.aspx Domestic league: September - May (http://www.lfp.dz/) Coach: Vahid Halilhodžić (since June 2011) is a very experienced coach who has achieved great success in his career (winning the 1997 CAF Champions League with Moroccan side Raja Casablanca, leading the French side Lille OSC from second level to third place in Ligue 1 in less than three years, winning the 2004 Coupe de France with Paris Saint-Germain and qualifying for the 2010 FIFA World Cup with Côte d'Ivoire). gk: R. M'Bolhi (2nd choice in Ajaccio) and other choices are from domestic league. df: left back D. Mesbah (Parma), M. Bougherra (ex-Rangers centre back is the most experienced), F. Ghoulam (regular left back in Saint-Etienne), C. Medjani (joined Monaco recently). There's still some solid defenders, but Antar Yahia (longtime captain) retired last year. mf: M. Lacen (Getafe's def-mid is captain), S. Feghouli (Valencia star), F. Kadir (new Marseille midfielder), A. Guedioura (from Nott Forest), M. Mostefa (from Ajaccio) and several good debutants, but Boudebouz and Bouzza (Sochaux and Santander midfielders) are out for bad behavior. fw: R. Djebbour (Oly topscorer) and E. Soudani (Giumaraes striker). + great coach, six players who played for the French under21 NT, great fans. - lack of deadly strikers, lack of good players in the youth categories.

[McNasara]

Re: Africa for beginners... Angola (Palancas Negras) http://www.fafutebol-angola.og.ao/ FIFA (CAF) ranking: 95 (25) WC appearances: 1 (2006) ACN appearances: 6 Stadiums and weather: Estádio 11 de Novembro, Luanda (sea level) - 50,000 http://www.myweather2.com/Football/Angola/Petroleos-Luanda-Primeiro-De-Agosto-National-Stadium.aspx Domestic league: March - November (http://www.girabola.com/) Coach: Gustavo Ferrin (since July 2012) little-known Uruguayan coach has achieved the most success with the young teams of Peru and Uruguay. Besides a good score in friendlies (six wins of eight games with only three conceded goals), he recorded bad results at ACN and he will probably be fired if the team not improve performance in WC qualification. gk: all came from the domestic league, but only Lama is with the national team for nearly 10 years. df: right back M. Airosa is only foreign-based defender, others are younger players from the domestic league, captain Kali retired last year. mf: AEL's midfield duo Dede and Gilberto are the most experienced and the only foreign-based midfielder. But even they play a little bit because there's a lot of young local players. fw: Undoubtedly, the best part of the team consists of Guilherme (who played for Swiss U21 NT), with trio of the best players (Manucho, Djalma and Mateus) who also play in European leagues, but key striker Flavio retired. + good offensive players, domestic league is played during the summer. - a lot of inexperienced players (generational change), unknown coach.

[McNasara]

Re: Africa for beginners... Benin (The Squirrels) http://www.febefoot.net/ FIFA (CAF) ranking: 86 (23) WC appearances: - ACN appearances: 3 Stadiums and weather: Stade de l'Amitié, Cotonou - 35,000 http://www.myweather2.com/Football/Benin/National-Stadium-Of-Benin-Stade-De-LAmitie.aspx Domestic league: November - June Coach: Manuel Amoros (since January 2012) famous Marseille defender and former coach of the Comoros Islands although failed to take his team to the tournament in South Africa, he has improved the results of the national team. Federation changed four coaches in 2010 and 2011, but the Frenchman could be a long term solution. gk: Clermont goalkeeper, F. Farnolle accepted to play for Benin last year though represented the French at youth level ten years ago. df: left-back E. Imorou, centre-backs J. Adéoti and K. Adénon also play in Ligue 2. mf: captain S. Sessègnon (Sunderland star), M. Ogunbiyi (Nimes) and R. Boco (Accrington) with other foreign-based midfielders consists the most experienced part of the team. fw: M. Pote (Dynamo Dresden topscorer) and R. Omotoyossi (from Egyptian Zamalek) are key strikers. + most players in European leagues. - poor state of the football association.

[McNasara]

Re: Africa for beginners... Botswana (The Zebras) http://www.bfa.co.bw/ FIFA (CAF) ranking: 122 (35) WC appearances: - ACN appearances: 1 Stadiums and weather: National Stadium, Gabarone (1000m above sea level) - 22,000 http://www.myweather2.com/Football/Botswana/National-Stadium-Of-Botswana.aspx Domestic league: September - July Coach: Stanley Tshosane (since June 2008) local coach who working as an assistant for the national team since 2002. Yet when he became head coach, he took the risk with rejuvenating the team that proved to be a good move. Besides all the foreign coaches in the past, he was able to qualify with team to the first major tournament for them (ACN 2012). gk: after M. Marumo retired, there are two younger gk's N. Maposa and K. Dambe. df: N. Letsholathebe, M. Ohilwe, M. Thuma and T. Motlhabankwe, the first three are the best and most experienced center-backs (and the last one right-back), all local players. mf: J. Mogorosi, O. Nato, P. Mongala and M. Gabonamong, all playing in South Africa. fw: D. Selolwane is NT topscorer but he's 35 years, M.Ngele, L. Tshireletso and J. Ramatlhakwane are his successors. + ambitious, a few good players from SA Premier League. - no known players, lack of leaders.

[McNasara]

Re: Africa for beginners... Burkina Faso (The Stallions) http://www.fasofoot.org/ FIFA (CAF) ranking: 50 (8) WC appearances: - ACN appearances: 9 Stadiums and weather: Stade du 4 Août, Ouagadougou - 35.000 http://www.myweather2.com/Football/Burkina-Faso/National-Stadium-Stade-Du-Aout.aspx Domestic league: March - October Coach: Paul Put (since March 2012) former Gambia coach is a Belgian. Not very successful in the past, even got a three-year suspension in the domestic league for involvement in match-fixing. Still has a chance to improve its reputation which he proved with his team's placement in the final at ACN this year. gk: D. Diakité and A. Soulama are experienced and main goalies. df: Paul Koulibaly, M. Panandétiguiri with S. Yago and B. Kone from the French Ligue 1 are the strongest defenders. mf: the most powerful part of the team consists of C. Kabore, Dj. Kone, F. Rouamba - defensive, Alain Traoré, W. Balima, J. Pitroipa and A. R. Traoré - attacking (all midfielders play in European clubs). fw: captain M. Dagano, A. Bancé, W. Sanou and P. Nakoulma are the best strikers. + almost all the players are in their best years for football, and playing outside Africa. - the first WC qualifying match against Congo awarded 0:3 by FIFA decision although game originally ended without goals.

[McNasara]

Re: Africa for beginners... Burundi (The Swallows) FIFA (CAF) ranking: 124 (35) WC appearances: - ACN appearances: - Stadiums and weather: Prince Louis Rwagasore Stadium, Bujumbura - 22.000 http://www.myweather2.com/Football/Burundi/National-Stadium-Of-Burundi.aspx Domestic league: November - July Coach: Lofty Naseem (since April 2012) - unknown Egyptian coach. gk: J. Ndikumana and V. Niyonkuru are the best goalkeepers. df: V. Nahayo is only defender playing in Europe (Belgian Gent), there is also captain F. Ndayisaba. mf: D. Ndabashinze and P. Faty are young midfielders with "the European experience". fw: S. Ntibazonkiza and S. Ndikumana are the best strikers, also playing outside Africa. + a lot of young players playing for NT for a long time. - poor conditions of FA, unknown coach.

[McNasara]

Re: Africa for beginners... Cameroon (the Indomitable Lions) http://www.fecafootonline.com/ FIFA (CAF) ranking: 60 (10) WC appearances: 6 (1982, 1990, 1994, 1998, 2002, 2010) ACN appearances: 16 (Winner 1984, 1988, 2000, 2002) Stadiums and weather: Stade Ahmadou Ahidjo, Yaounde - 39.000 http://www.myweather2.com/City-Town/Cameroon/Yaounde.aspx Domestic league: February - October Coach: Jean-Paul Akono (since September 2012), guided Cameroon to Olympic gold in 2000, but failed to lead team to this year's ACN (since he took over the team before the second leg match against Cape Verde). So it is expected that some better known coach, probably from Europe, replacing him in the near future. gk: C. Kameni, C. Itandje and Guy Ndy Assembe are all experienced goalkeepers who are playing in solid European teams. df: D. Nounkeu, A. Chedjou, Kana-Biyik, S. Bassong, J. Matip and N. N'Koulou are a very good group of central defenders, while B. Assou-Ekotto and H. Bedimo are the best fullbacks, also from top European clubs. mf: A. Song, J. Makoun, S. M'Bia, L. N'Guémo and A. Emaná are very experienced midfielders who play regularly in their clubs. fw: captain S. Eto'o, M. Idrissou, P. Webo, B. Moukandjo, L. Kweuke and V. Aboubakar are their the best strikers. + a couple of world class players and a lot of experienced guys. - poor working with youth team selections and bad coaching situation.

[McNasara]

Re: Africa for beginners... Cape Verde (Blue Sharks) http://tubaroesazuis2013.cv/ FIFA (CAF) ranking: 75 (19) WC appearances: - ACN appearances: 1 Stadiums and weather: Estádio da Várzea, Praia (sea level) - 10.000 http://www.myweather2.com/City-Town/Cape-Verde-Islands/Praia.aspx Domestic league: May - July Coach: Lúcio Antunes (since July 2010), local coach has a great knowledge of the Island’s football following his steady rise from the youth to the senior level. He was known as a friend of Jose Mourinho, and how he managed to lead team to the first major tournament. gk: Fock and Vózinha are the best goalies, but without experience of playing in Europe. df: G. Ramos and F.Varela have remained the best defenders (playing regularly in Europe) as a long-time captain Nando retired this year. mf: Babanco, M. Soares, T. Varela and Platini are the best among midfielders who play mostly in Portugal. fw: Heldon, R. Mendes, O. Fortes, J. Tavares and Ze Luis make the strongest part of the team. + a very small country with a lot of talented players (also Viera, Larsson and Nani are Cape Verdean origin). - lack of experienced players (no starter has 30 or more years).

[McNasara]

Re: Africa for beginners... Central African Republic (the Wild Beasts) FIFA (CAF) ranking: 64 (12) WC appearances: - ACN appearances: - Stadiums and weather: Barthelemy Boganda Stadium, Bangui - 20.000 http://www.myweather2.com/City-Town/Central-African-Republic/Bangui.aspx Domestic league: ?? Coach: Herve Lougoundji (since May 2012), unknown local coach. gk: G. Lembet is the second-choice keeper in the French club Sedan. df: M. Enza-Yamissi, S. Kéïta, F. Anzité, K. Youga and F. Kassaï are the best plaers in defensive line. mf: E. Enza-Yamissi, R. Lignanzi, V. Mabidé and N. Zimbori are regular midfielders. fw: captain F. Kéthévoama, H. Momi, D. Manga, E. Dagoulou and J. Balamandji are the strongest part of the team and all play outside Africa. + great progress in recent years thanks to the many players who play abroad. - lack of experienced players and a good coach.

[McNasara]

Re: Africa for beginners (10 of 54 teams are completed)!!! Chad (Sao) http://tchadsport.centerblog.net/ FIFA (CAF) ranking: 166 (43) WC appearances: - ACN appearances: - Stadiums and weather: Stade Nacional, N'Djamena - 30.000 http://www.myweather2.com/City-Town/Chad/Ndjamena.aspx Domestic league: January - June Coach: Modou Kouta (since September 2011), unknown local coach. gk: A. Koulara is better than the other goalies who are also from the domestic league. df: M. Asselmo, A. Djérabé, M. Betorangal, C. Madalngue, K. Nicaise and M. Alladjim are the best defenders. mf: captain M. Mbaiam, L. Djime, Y. Kerim, F. Gassina, H. Doumna and M. Habib are regular midfielders. fw: M. Labbo, E. N'Douassel and K. Barthélémy are foreign-based strikers. + - bad team, with a bad coach, was eliminated in the first qualifying round for ACN and WC in last two years.

[McNasara]

Re: Africa for beginners (10 of 54 teams are completed)!!! Comoros (Les Coelecantes) FIFA (CAF) ranking: 192 (49) WC appearances: - ACN appearances: - Stadiums and weather: Stade Said Mohamed Cheikh, Mitsamiouli (artificial pitch) - 3.000 http://www.myweather2.com/City-Town/Comoros/Moroni.aspx Domestic league: ?? Coach: Ali Mbaé Camara (since October 2011), unknown local coach. gk: M. Mroivili and M. Mbalia are the best goalies form the domestic league. df: I. Rachidi is the key defender. mf: N. Abdou, M. Youssouf, Y. M'Changama and F. Rachid are the best midfielders. fw: A. M'Madi is the best striker. + - Islanders joined the CAF in 2003, and became a FIFA member in 2005.

[McNasara]

Re: Africa for beginners (10 of 54 teams are completed)!!! Congo (Red Devils) http://diablesrougescongo.com/ FIFA (CAF) ranking: 78 (21) WC appearances: - ACN appearances: 6 (Winner 1972) Stadiums and weather: Stade Municipal, Pointe-Noire (sea level) - 13.500 http://www.myweather2.com/City-Town/Congo/PointeNoire.aspx Stade de la Révolution, Brazzaville - 26.000 http://www.myweather2.com/Football/Congo/National-Stadium-Stade-De-La-Revolution.aspx Domestic league: March - December Coach: Kamel Djabour (since October 2012), Frenchman previously worked with clubs in Benin and Mali. Otherwise, he served as assistant from August 2011, but became head coach when his colleague took over Auxerre. gk: B. Mouko is first-choice keeper. df: captain C. Samba, F. N'Ganga, B. Abdoulaye, M. Lépicier and I. N'Ganga are the best defenders. mf: D. Ndinga, C. Malonga, P. Oniangué, O. Ewolo and D. Louhoungou are regular miudfielders.. fw: L. Douniama, M. Moussilou, L. Mouithys and F. Ondama are the best strikers. + they won first WCQ match against Burkina Faso (awarded 3:0 by FIFA decision) and have many naturalized Frenchmen who are experienced and play for European clubs. - lack of young talented players.

[froment]

Re: Africa for beginners (12 of 54 teams are completed)!!! Great effort, mate, keep it going! :clap I like these pluses and minuses of each team, as a summary.

[McNasara]

Re: Africa for beginners (12 of 54 teams are completed)!!! Cote d'Ivoire (the Elephants) http://www.fif-ci.com/CI/ FIFA (CAF) ranking: 12 (1) WC appearances: 2 (2006, 2010) ACN appearances: 19 (Winner 1992) Stadiums and weather: Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny, Abidjan (sea level) - 40.000 http://www.myweather2.com/City-Town/Cote-DIvoire/Abidjan.aspx Domestic league: November - September (http://www.ligue1-ci.com/) Coach: Sabri Lamouchi (since May 2012), this is the Frenchman's first coaching job and there is no great trust in him in the country. gk: B. Barry is the most experienced goalkeeper and plays regularly in Belgian Lokeren for years. df: K. Touré, E. Eboué, A. Boka, S. Bamba, I. Lolo and S. Tiéné make very experienced defensive line. mf: Y. Touré, D. Zokora, C. Tioté and M. Gradel are the best midfielders, from top European leagues. fw: captain D. Drogba, W. Bony, A. Koné, Y. Gervinho, S. Kalou and L. Traoré make an impressive forward line. + a lot of experienced world class players (even eleven players have played over 50 NT games). - coach is below the required level.

[McNasara]

Re: Africa for beginners (13 of 54 teams are completed)!!! Djibouti (Shoremen Of The Red Sea) http://www.fdf.dj/ FIFA (CAF) ranking: 204 (54) WC appearances: - ACN appearances: - Stadiums and weather: Stade du Ville, Djibouti (artificial pitch, sea level) - 10.000 http://www.myweather2.com/Football/Djibouti/National-Stadium-Of-Djibouti.aspx Domestic league: December - May Coach: Gharsalli Noureddine (since November 2011), unknown Tunisian coach. gk: Y. Abdourahman is the best goalie. df: D. Wais and A. Houssein are key defender. mf: captain M. Liban are M. Hirir the best midfielders. fw: M. Charmare is the most experienced striker. + - they are the last ranked team on the continent.

[McNasara]

Re: Africa for beginners (13 of 54 teams are completed)!!! DR Congo (the Leopards) http://www.fecofa.cd/ http://www.leopardsfoot.com/ FIFA (CAF) ranking: 86 (23) WC appearances: 1 (1974) ACN appearances: 15 (Winner 1968, 1974) Stadiums and weather: Stade des Martyrs, Kinshasa - 80.000 http://www.myweather2.com/Football/Democratic-Republic-Of-Congo/Motema-Pemba-Inter-Kinshasa.aspx Domestic league: March - December Coach: Claude Le Roy (since August 2011), Frenchman has rich experience in African football from years of working as a head coach in national teams of Cameroon, Senegal, Ghana and the DR Congo (2004-06). gk: M. Kidiaba and P. Mandanda (the younger brother of France international goalkeeper Steve Mandanda) are the best keepers. df: C. Mongongu, K. Kasusula, M. Issama, L. Mabiala, G. Zakuani, L. Mulemo and J. Kimwaki are the best defenders. mf: Y. Mulumbu, C. Makiadi, Z. Matumona and T. Nzuzi are top midfielders from European leagues. fw: captain T. Mputu, D. Mbokani, L. LuaLua and D. Kaluyituka are the best part of the team. + probably the best coach on the continent, a few very good players from top leagues, strong domestic league. -

[McNasara]

Re: Africa for beginners (15 of 54 teams are completed)!!! Egypt (the Pharoahs) http://www.efa.com.eg/ FIFA (CAF) ranking: 68 (15) WC appearances: 2 (1934, 1990) ACN appearances: 22 (Winner 1957, 1986, 1998, 2006, 2008, 2010) Stadiums and weather: Borg El Arab Stadium, Alexandria (sea level) - 86.000 http://www.myweather2.com/Football/Egypt/Alexandria-Stadium.aspx International Stadium, Cairo (sea level) - 75.000 http://www.myweather2.com/Football/Egypt/National-Stadium-Cairo-International-Stadium.aspx Domestic league: ?? (http://www.filgoal.com/English/SectionMain.aspx?SecID=1) Coach: Bob Bradley (since September 2011), known American coach who has had great success with the local national team. Yet he is under pressure because succeeded Hassan Shehata (the longest-serving coach in the Egyptian national team history) who won three consecutive trophies at the ACN. gk: one of the best African goalkeepers of all time E. El Hadary retired this year, so A. El-Sayed is first-choice goalie. df: A. Hegazi, Abdel-Shafy, A. Fathi, M. Fathalla, El-Abd and W. Gomaa are the best defenders. mf: A. El Mohamady, M. Aboutreika, M. El Nenny and H. Abd Rabo are the best midfielders. fw: M. Salah, Gedo, M. Zidan, A.H. Mekky, Amr Zaki and E. Moteab arew the best strikers. + good working with youth team selections, strong domestic league, a lot of experienced players. - a small number of players in the European leagues.

[McNasara]

Re: Africa for beginners (16 of 54 teams are completed)!!! Equatorial Guinea (Nzalang Nacional) http://feguifutweb.com/ FIFA (CAF) ranking: 61 (10) WC appearances: - ACN appearances: 1 Stadiums and weather: Nuevo Estadio, Malabo (sea level) - 15.000 http://www.myweather2.com/Football/Equatorial-Guinea/National-Stadium-Of-Equatorial-Guinea.aspx Domestic league: ?? Coach: Andoni Goikoetxea (since February 2013), this is the first job in Africa for a former Spanish national team player. He had the most success with Spain U21 in his almost 20-year coaching career. Most of the time he spent with clubs in the Spanish Segunda division. gk: Danilo is the first goalkeeper. df: L. Doe, Rui, Kily, Sipo and F. Kamissoko are regular defenders. mf: Ben Konaté, Juvenal, D. Ekedo and Rolan are the best midfielders. fw: E. Nsue, J. Balboa, Randy, I. Bolado and R. Bodipo make the best part of the team. + new coach and many naturalized players from Brazil and Spain. - it's very easy that all eleven players on the pitch are not originally from E. Guinea.

[McNasara]

Re: Africa for beginners (17 of 54 teams are completed)!!! Eritrea (the Red Sea Boys) FIFA (CAF) ranking: 198 (50) WC appearances: - ACN appearances: - Stadiums and weather: Cicero Stadium, Asmara (2300m above sea level, artificial pitch) - 15.000 http://www.myweather2.com/Holiday-Destinations/Eritrea/Asmara.aspx Domestic league: ?? Coach: Negash Teklit (since January 2009), unknown local coach. gk: - df: - mf: - fw: - + - very poor state of the FA as players use away games to escaped from the country, so about them, you never know.

[McNasara]

Re: Africa for beginners (19 of 54 teams are completed)!!! Ethiopia (the Walya Antelopes) http://khanuasports.com/ FIFA (CAF) ranking: 107 (31) WC appearances: - ACN appearances: 10 (Winner 1962) Stadiums and weather: Addis Ababa Stadium, Addis Ababa (2400m above sea level) - 35.000 http://www.myweather2.com/Football/Ethiopia/National-Stadium-Of-Ethiopia.aspx Domestic league: October - June (http://www.ethiosports.com/News/sports/soccer/ethiopian-soccer/, http://www.ethiofootball.com/) Coach: Sewnet Bishaw (since November 2011), the veteran tactician has enjoyed successful stints with clubs in the Ethiopian League and at Yemen top flight side Ahly Senaa, before assuming the role of Ethiopian head coach for the second time (was the coach during the 2004-06). gk: S. Bancha is the first-choice goalie, but is from the domestic league as well as others. df: captain D. Debebe, A. Butako, A. Hailu, A. Girma and B. Bogale are the best defenders from the domestic league. mf: S. Bekele, Y. Saleh, Y. Zinabu, M. Teshome and A. Megersa are the best midfielders. fw: S. Said, A. Girma, O. Oukri, G. Kebede and F. Tefera make the best part of the team. + high altitude, a good coach. - almost all players are from the domestic league.

[McNasara]

Re: Africa for beginners (19 of 54 teams are completed)!!! Gabon (the Panthers) http://www.les-pantheres.com/ FIFA (CAF) ranking: 81 (22) WC appearances: - ACN appearances: 5 Stadiums and weather: Stade Omar Bongo, Libreville (sea level) - 40.000 http://www.myweather2.com/Football/Gabon/National-Stadium-Stade-Omar-Bongo.aspx Domestic league: October - May Coach: Paulo Duarte (since April 2012), Portuguese was the coach of Burkina Faso for four years, before he took over Gabon. gk: D. Ovono is the best goalie. df: B.E. Manga, C. Moussono, M.B. Apanga, E. Mouelé and R. Ebanega are key defenders. mf: L. Palun, A.B. Poko, B.Z. Mbanangoyé and L. Madinda are the best midfielders. fw: captain D. Cousin, P. Aubameyang, E. Mouloungui, H. Antchouet and F. Do Marcolino make the strong offensive line. + some good players who play in the French clubs. - the first WC qualifying match against Niger awarded 0:3 by FIFA decision although game originally ended without goals.

[McNasara]

Re: Africa for beginners (19 of 54 teams are completed)!!! Gambia (the Scorpions) http://www.gambiafa.com/ FIFA (CAF) ranking: 147 (40) WC appearances: - ACN appearances: - Stadiums and weather: Independence Stadium, Bakau (sea level) - 20.000 http://www.myweather2.com/Football/Gambia/National-Stadium-Of-Gambia.aspx Domestic league: January - June Coach: Luciano Mancini (since May 2012), Italian was assistant manager, but he replaced Peter Bonu Johnson, who was demoted to assistant manager. gk: the most experienced goalkeeper P.D. Touray (former captain) retired, so C. Allen is first choice now. df: captain A. Jammeh, P. Kujabi, M. Danso, K. Ceesay and O. Koli are the best defenders. mf: Y. Ceesay, P. Jagne, S. Gassama, T. Jaiteh, S. Nyassi and E. Sohna are regular midfielders. fw: M. Jarju, D. Savage and M. Ceesay are top strikers. + a lot of young and talented players (winning the 2005 and 2009 Under-17 ACN). - lack of experienced players (only four are over 25 years old).

[McNasara]

Re: Africa for beginners (19 of 54 teams are completed)!!! Ghana (the Black Stars) http://www.ghanafa.org/ FIFA (CAF) ranking: 22 (2) WC appearances: 2 (2006, 2010) ACN appearances: 19 (Winner 1963, 1965, 1978, 1982) Stadiums and weather: Baba Yara Stadium, Kumasi - 40.500 http://www.myweather2.com/City-Town/Ghana/Kumasi.aspx Ohene Djan Stadium, Accra - 35.000 http://www.myweather2.com/City-Town/Ghana/Accra.aspx Domestic league: October - June (http://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/soccer/) Coach: James Kwesi Appiah (since April 2012), the former Black Stars captain served as the assistant coach of the team since 2008 and gained a great deal of experience to propel the team forward. gk: F. Dauda and A. Kwarasey are the best goalies. df: I. Vorsah, J. Boye, H. Afful, J. Paintsil, S. Inkoom, J. Akaminko and D. Opare care the best in defensive line. mf: W. Mubarak, K. Asamoah, S. Muntari, E.A. Badu, M. Rabiu, A. Ayew, K.P. Boateng, D. Boateng, A. Annan and A. Adomah make the best part of the team. fw: captain A. Gyan, J. Ayew, C. Atsu and R. Boakye are key strikers. + good working with youth team selections, a lot of young and talented players and several players in top European clubs. - lack of experienced players.

[McNasara]

Re: Africa for beginners (19 of 54 teams are completed)!!! Guinea (the National Elephants) FIFA (CAF) ranking: 70 (16) WC appearances: - ACN appearances: 10 Stadiums and weather: Stade 28 Septembre, Conakry (sea level) - 35.000 http://www.myweather2.com/Football/Guinea/National-Stadium-Of-Guinea.aspx Domestic league: ?? Coach: Michel Dussuyer (since May 2010), Frenchman's former Benin coach who took over Guinea for the second time (was in the same place during 2002-04). gk: N. Yattara and A. Keita are the best goalies. df: captain K. Zayatte, O. Kalabane, I. Diallo, K. Constant, H. Balde, F. Pogba and L. Camara are key defenders, but B. Balde retired. mf: I. Traoré, S. Diallo, Abdoul Camara, I. Conté, T. Bah, N. Soumah and M. Bah are regular midfielders, but captain P. Feindouno retired. fw: Lass Bangoura, M. Yattara, S. Cissé, I. Bangoura, and E. Barry are the best strikers. + most players play for European clubs. - lack of experienced players who retired recently.

[McNasara]

Re: Africa for beginners (24 of 54 teams are completed)!!! Guinea-Bissau (the Foxes) FIFA (CAF) ranking: 179 (45) WC appearances: - ACN appearances: - Stadiums and weather: Nacional 24 de Setembro, Bissau (sea level) - 20.000 http://www.myweather2.com/City-Town/GuineaBissau/Bissau.aspx Domestic league: ?? Coach: Carlos Manuel (since June 2012), former Portuguese international player has worked with unfamiliar clubs before. gk: Jonas is first-choice goalkeeper. df: J. Monteiro, Edson, Banjai, B. Fernandes and B. Balde are regular defenders. mf: B. Cá, Zezinho, Ivanildo, A. Moreira, Ibraima and L. Teixeira are regular midfielders. fw: Sami, B. de Carvalho and Cícero are the best strikers. + most players play in the Portuguese clubs. - a lot of older players (over 30 years) but nobody with over 15 appearances for NT, and the lack of young talents.

[McNasara]

Re: Africa for beginners (24 of 54 teams are completed)!!! Kenya (Harambee Stars) http://www.fkf.co.ke/ FIFA (CAF) ranking: 122 (34) WC appearances: - ACN appearances: 5 Stadiums and weather: Moi International Sports Centre, Nairobi (1.700m above sea level) - 60.000 Nyayo National Stadium, Nairobi (1.700m above sea level) - 30.000 http://www.myweather2.com/Football/Kenya/National-Stadium-Of-Kenya.aspx Domestic league: February - November (http://www.kpl.co.ke/, http://www.futaa.com/football/matches/, http://www.kenyanstar.co.ke/football, http://www.michezoafrika.com/, http://www.footballkenya.net/) Coach: Adel Amrouche (since February 2013), naturalized Belgian from Algeria led Burundi in the past five years, but quit due to their lack of ambition. gk: A. Origi is the best keeper. df: J. Situma, B. Mandela, J. Atudo, P. Ochieng and D. Odhiambo are regular defenders. mf: V. Wanyama, M. Mariga, J. Mohammed, T. Mulama, K. Ochieng and P. Osiako are the best midfielders. fw: captain D. Oliech and P. Oboya are key strikers. + successful change of generation, team leaders play in good European clubs. - most players are from the domestic league, frequent change of coaches (this is the tenth coach in the last five years).

[McNasara]

Re: Africa for beginners (24 of 54 teams are completed)!!! Lesotho (the Crocodiles) http://lesothofootball.com/ FIFA (CAF) ranking: 155 (41) WC appearances: - ACN appearances: - Stadiums and weather: Setsoto Stadium, Maseru (1.600m above sea level, artificial pitch) - 20.000 http://www.myweather2.com/City-Town/Lesotho/Maseru.aspx Domestic league: September - May Coach: Adam Siddorn (since February 2013), unknown local coach. gk: M. Koenane and K. Phasumane are regular goalkeepers. df: T. Masualle, B. Mothoana, M. Ntobo and N. Lerotholi are key defenders. mf: M. Mofolo, B. Moletsane and R. Mokhahlane are the best midfielders. fw: T. Tale, L. Ramabele and K. Moleko are the best strikers. + home ground. - most players playing in the domestic league, unknown coach.

[McNasara]

Re: Africa for beginners (24 of 54 teams are completed)!!! Liberia (the Lone Stars) http://www.lfa.com.lr/ http://www.liberiansoccer.com/home.htm FIFA (CAF) ranking: 103 (28) WC appearances: - ACN appearances: 2 Stadiums and weather: National Complex, Monrovia (sea level) - 30.000 Antoinette Tubman Stadium, Monrovia (sea level, artificial pitch) - 15.000 http://www.myweather2.com/Football/Liberia/Antoinette-Tubman-Stadium.aspx Domestic league: February - September (http://lfacellcomleague.pitchero.com/) Coach: Joe Nagbe (since February 2013), former international player for the first time as coach, at the urging of George Weah. gk: N. Sherman is first-choice goalie. df: J. Dixon, P. Gerhardt, S. Grimes and T. Dennis are regular defenders. mf: S. Oliseh, G. Gebro, T. Weeks, Z. Krangar, T. Tisdell and A. Keita make the best part of the team. fw: F. Doe, P. Wleh, A. Laffor and D. Williams are the best strikers. + many players play in European clubs. - unknown coach.

[McNasara]

Re: Africa for beginners (28 of 54 teams are completed)!!! Libya (the Mediterranean Knights) FIFA (CAF) ranking: 65 (13) WC appearances: - ACN appearances: 3 Stadiums and weather: June 11 Stadium, Tripoli - 67.000 http://www.myweather2.com/Football/Libya/AlIttihad-Tripoli.aspx Domestic league: October - June Coach: Abdul-Hafeedh Arbeesh (since May 2012), unknown local coach. gk: S. Aboud retired, so M. Nashnoush is the best goalie. df: Al Shibani, Ali Salama, Al Maghrabi and Walid Jalal are regular defenders. mf: Dj. Mahamat, A. Suiueinei and M. Mabrouk are the best midfielders. fw: A.O. Sa'ad, A. Zuway and I. Boussefi are the best strikers. + a lot of experienced players. - unknown coach, only Dj. Mahamat plays out of Africa, there's no football games in the last two years due to the civil war.