The Place for Daily Football News from Africa

As the 2025-26 season continues across the continent, with eyes on the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers and lingering echoes from the recent Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), the past day has featured key rulings, international sanctions, club competition draws, and domestic previews. Here's a summary of the major news from February 16-17, 2026, covering leagues, match recaps, upcoming fixtures, international club tournaments like the CAF Champions League (CAFCL), and national team updates.

CAF Champions League: Quarter-Final Draws and Incident Condemnations

The CAF Champions League has dominated headlines with the announcement of quarter-final matchups on February 16. Notable ties include Tunisia's Esperance facing Egypt's Al Ahly, a clash of North African giants, and Morocco's ASFAR (Raja Casablanca) taking on Egypt's Pyramids FC. These fixtures promise high drama, with first legs scheduled for late February and early March, leading into the semi-finals in April.

Adding to the tension, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) condemned unacceptable incidents during the Al Ahly vs. ASFAR match on February 16, highlighting concerns over fan behavior and on-field disruptions. Former Egypt coach Diaa El-Sayed expressed fears that CAF might favor ASFAR and impose sanctions on Al Ahly, potentially forcing them to play future games without fans. Reactions have poured in, including humorous takes on the recurring Al Ahly vs. Mamelodi Sundowns rivalry, should both advance.

Earlier in the group stage, Sudan's Al-Hilal secured group leadership with a narrow win over DR Congo's Lupopo on February 14, setting up their quarter-final path.

AFCON Aftermath: Sanctions and Bans Following Chaotic Final

Fallout from the 2026 AFCON final between Senegal and Morocco continues, with CAF issuing sanctions on both teams after chaotic scenes. Senegal defeated hosts Morocco to claim the title, but the match was marred by a walk-off and post-game unrest. Senegal's coach Lamine Thiaw received a ban, while Cameroon legend Samuel Eto'o—now FECAFOOT president—was handed a four-match suspension and a $20,000 fine by CAF's Disciplinary Committee. Nigeria secured bronze in the tournament.

Senegal's actions were described as driven by "emotion, not defiance," emphasizing the intense atmosphere. Looking ahead, the 2027 AFCON is set for a June-July window, while Morocco will host the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), with South Africa clarifying their potential involvement.

World Cup Qualifiers: FIFA Verdict on Nigeria-DR Congo Dispute

In 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying news, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) reacted to a reported FIFA verdict on an eligibility dispute with DR Congo on February 16. Questions arose over the origins of the ruling, which could impact group standings in the CAF qualifiers. Nigeria's Super Eagles are preparing for a friendly against Jordan amid the uncertainty, aiming to maintain momentum.

Former Super Eagle John Obi Mikel urged players with African roots to commit early to their heritage nations, criticizing those who treat Africa as a "second option."

Domestic Leagues: South African Showdown and Nigerian Highlights

In South Africa's Betway Premiership, the upcoming Orlando Pirates vs. Mamelodi Sundowns clash on February 17 at FNB Stadium is billed as a potential title decider. Pirates released a match day guide, heightening anticipation for this key fixture.

In Nigeria's Premier League (NPFL), a stunning one-touch goal by Shooting Stars showcased the league's flair on February 16. Broader discussions highlighted challenges like corruption and fan violence affecting investment in African leagues.

Youth and Other Competitions: U-17 Qualifiers and Referee Honors

DR Congo will host the Uniffac zone qualifiers for the 2026 Africa U-17 Cup of Nations from February 17 to March 2, featuring teams like Cameroon and Gabon.

In officiating news, 30 Nigerian referees, including futsal official Ndubuisi Ukah Odigomma, received 2026 FIFA badges on February 16 in Abuja.

Other Notables

Calls for a Zambia vs. Zimbabwe friendly emerged to ease online tensions between the nations. Meanwhile, chaos in Cameroon ahead of AFCON and ongoing qualifiers underscore the continent's passionate football landscape.

With World Cup spots expanding and club competitions advancing, African football remains vibrant. Stay tuned for results from today's fixtures, including the Pirates-Sundowns showdown.