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World Football

World Football

573 episodes — Page 1 of 12

Afcon 2025: Senegal are champions after final descends into chaos

Lee James is joined by John Bennett and the former Nigeria international Daniel Amokachi for immediate reaction to Senegal winning the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after the final descended into chaos in added time of normal time after Morocco were awarded a penalty following an intervention from the VAR, which led to Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw leading his team off the pitch before Brahim Diaz had his penalty saved. Pape Gueye then scored the only goal in the first half of extra time to secure the title for Senegal.Timecodes:00:34 - Immediate reaction to a chaotic AFCON final 02:42 - Are Morocco fit to co-host the 2030 World Cup after how they handled this final? 04:21 - How much responsibility should Senegal take for the ugly scenes at the end of the game? 07:12 - An undercurrent of hysteria around refereeing decisions 08:43 - Analysis of decisions at the end of the game 11:04 - Sadio Mane - Senegal's greatest ambassador 11:50 - Brahim Diaz's failed Panenka - will it haunt him forever? 14:26 - Senegal trophy lift

Jan 18, 202618 min

Afcon 2025: “Follow Morocco and Senegal and this will bring success to the continent”

Lee James and John Bennett are joined by former Tottenham and Cameroon defender Sebastien Bassong, Afcon winning Nigeria midfielder Sunday Oliseh and Moroccan football expert Amine El-Amri to preview the Africa Cup of Nations final, host's Morocco versus 2021 champions Senegal. Plus, the team discuss the Senegalese Football Federation concerns about security and hear from Moroccan midfielder Sofyan Amrabat, head coach Walid Regragui.01:35 Senegalese Football Federation security, accommodation and training ground concerns 07:00 Pressures of playing an ‘away’ Afcon 08:00 The best Afcon teams progressing to the knockout rounds 09:00 Morocco’s football investment 11:00 African nations following Morocco and Senegal’s lead 12:40 Impact of Afcon switching to every four years 15:45 Sunday Oliseh on Nigeria’s tournament 19:15 Tour of Rabat 25:30 Moroccan football expert Amine El-Amri on role of football in Morocco 31:00 Morocco’s aspirations to become a football superpower 33:30 Moroccan midfielder Sofyan Amrabat interview 36:30 Moroccan head coach Walid Regragui on the final 37:30 Final Predictions

Jan 17, 202638 min

Bonus: More than the Score on Afcon

A special bonus Afcon episode from More than the Score, the BBC World Service podcast that tells stories from beyond the scoresheet. Find more by searching for More than the Score wherever you get your BBC podcasts.This year's Africa Cup of Nations, or Afcon, has been dominated by the continent's big teams. Mohamed Salah and Victor Osimhen helped Nigeria and Egypt reach the semi-finals, while the likes of Achraf Hakimi and Sadio Mane will face off when hosts Morocco take on Senegal in the final.With Africa's superstars seemingly in top form, can they keep it up at this summer's World Cup - and could an African nation finally go all the way, and win football's most famous prize?The BBC's Lee James and John Bennett talk to African football experts Gary Al Smith and Maher Mezahi as Africa's biggest tournament nears its conclusion. Why have the stars shone at this year's Afcon, and does that bode well for the summer? How have Ghana and Cape Verde's World Cup chances been affected by missing out on Afcon? And with some of the continent's biggest names seemingly nearing the end of their international careers, who will step into their shoes?Every Monday to Friday, More than the Score tells stories beyond the scoreline from all over the world of sport. From the Winter Olympics to the Super Bowl, the Australian Open to the Diamond League, and netball to Formula 1. We've got interviews with extraordinary athletes like Ivory Coast legend Yaya Toure, boxing royalty Cecilia Braekhus and cycling sprint king Harrie Lavreysen, as well as the experts working behind the scenes, from the referees who run VAR to the coaches keeping athletes in peak form. Plus, we've got the expertise of the BBC's top journalists, who share their insights from decades of covering sport at all levels.And if you've got your own take on the stories we cover, we'd love to hear from you. Email [email protected], or WhatsApp us on 0044 800 032 0470. You can find more information, along with our privacy notice, on our website: www.bbcworldservice.com/morethanthescore

Jan 16, 202623 min

Afcon 2025: Morocco and Senegal reach the final

Lee James is joined by John Bennett, North African football expert Maher Mezahi and Moroccan football journalist Jalal Bounouar to provide immediate reaction to hosts Morocco beating Nigeria on penalties to reach Sunday's final.Piers Edwards and the former South Africa captain Dean Furman reflect on Senegal's 1-0 semi-final victory over Egypt, including reaction from match-winner Sadio Mane and teammate Idrissa Gana Gueye. Timecodes:00:14 - Immediate reaction to Morocco's victory over Nigeria 09:03 - Reaction to Senegal's victory over Egypt 15:49 - Sadio Mane interview 17:03 - Idrissa Gana Gueye interview

Jan 15, 202618 min

Afcon 2025: Previewing two heavyweight semi-final clashes

Delyth Lloyd is joined by former Nigerian defender William Troost-Ekong, Mani Djazmi, John Bennett, Maher Mezahi and Ali Howorth to preview two blockbuster Afcon semi-finals. Hosts Morocco face Nigeria’s in-form Super Eagles; whilst its Salah vs Mané III, with Senegal playing Egypt.Timecodes: 03:00 – 27:00 Nigeria v Morocco 27:30 – 30:00 Salah vs Mané Part 3 30:00 – 36:00 Egypt v Senegal 36:00 – 40:00 What impact would an Afcon win have on Salah’s legacy? 41:30 – Final Predictions

Jan 11, 202642 min

Afcon 2025: Morocco and Senegal reach the semis

Lee James is joined by John Bennett and the former South Africa captain Dean Furman to reflect on a dominant 2-0 win for hosts Morocco against Cameroon in Rabat.Isaac Fanin joins from Tangier to look back on Senegal's 1-0 victory over Mail.Ian Williams sends us a dispatch from Agadir ahead Egypt's quarter-final against holders Ivory Coast, including hearing from Ivory Coast star Amad Diallo.And Nigeria football expert Oluwashina Okeleji drops in from Marrakech to discuss Nigeria's preparations for their quarter-final against Algeria.Timecodes:00:30 - Cameroon 0-2 Morocco 05:21 - Algeria v Nigeria preview 08:01 - Mali 0-1 Senegal 12:02 - Egypt v Ivory Coast preview

Jan 9, 202615 min

Afcon 2025: A Clash of Lions and Sisters

John Bennett and Isaac Fanin look ahead to the opening two quarter-finals at the Africa Cup of Nations.John is joined by Cameroon journalist Ben Collins and North African football expert Patrick Juillard to look ahead to hosts Morocco against the five-time winners Cameroon in Rabat.While in Tangier, Isaac speaks to Mali head coach Tom Saintfiet and Senegal journalist Djim Momar ahead of the clash between the neighbouring nations.Timecodes:00:45 - Cameroon focus with Ben Collins 03:44 - Could Cameroon's Christian Kofane be African football's next superstar? 05:38 - Senegal with focus with Djim Momar 07:59 - Mali head coach Tom Saintfiet interview 10:53 - Morocco focus with Patrick Juillard

Jan 8, 202615 min

Afcon 2025: It’s knockout time

A star-studded cast led by Achraf Hakimi, Mohamed Salah and Victor Osimhen switch to knockout fare from Saturday, when the Africa Cup of Nations resumes in Morocco. After 36 matches spread across six groups, the 16 survivors from 24 hopefuls clash in eight second-round matches over four days. Fit-again Hakimi is set to lead title favourites Morocco against Tanzania, Salah will captain Egypt against Benin and Osimhen-inspired Nigeria tackle Mozambique.The BBC’s John Bennett is joined by African football expert Maher Mezahi and the former DR Congo captain Gabriel Zakuani to look ahead to the last 16.

Jan 1, 202614 min

Afcon 2025: Can 'fearless' Victor Osimhen lead Nigeria to glory?

Delyth Lloyd is joined by Mani Djazmi, former Sierra Leone captain Steven Caulker and former Nigeria captain William Troost-Ekong to reflect on Nigeria's dramatic 3-2 victory over Tunisia in their second Group C match in Fez.Troost-Ekong provides insight on leading the Super Eagles to the AFCON final in 2024 and gives us the inside track on "fearless" Victor Osimhen and his role as a leader in the Nigeria dressing room after a tough upbringing in Lagos.BBC Sport Africa's Rob Stevens also joins the pod from Tangier to reflect on Senegal's 1-1 draw with DR Congo and discuss whether either nation can challenge for the title.Timecodes:01:37 - Has the first week of the AFCON lived up to the expectations 04:40 - Nigeria fans react to 3-2 win over Tunisia 05:43 - Thoughts on Nigeria's win over Tunisia 09:05 - Focus on Nigeria's attacking firepower 10:59 - Victor Osimhen chat 18:17 - Will Nigeria rest players against Uganda? 19:14 - Tunisia favourites to join Nigeria from Group C in the last 16? 20:34 - Rob Stevens joins the pod to reflect on Senegal v DR Congo 22:37 - Can Senegal or DR Congo challenge for the title? 25:29 - Benin claim their first AFCON win 26:35 - Is this AFCON lacking the 'vibes'? 32:13 - Predictions after the first week

Dec 28, 202534 min

Afcon 2025: Marvellous Mane and finally a win for Benin

In this episode Moroccan football journalist Amine El Amri, the BBC’s John Bennett and the former DR Congo captain Gabriel Zakuani discuss the opening week of the tournament. Including Gab’s reaction to his teams draw against Senegal, Benin’s first ever Afcon win at the sixteenth attempt and an injury update on Morocco’s inspirational captain Achraf Hakimi, who missed their opening win against Comoros.

Dec 27, 202515 min

Afcon 2025: Super Eagles fly high in Fez

Lee James is joined by John Bennett, former Nigeria international Seyi Olofinjana and former South Africa captain Dean Furman to reflect on Nigeria's 2-1 victory over Tanzania in their opening Group C match in Fez.The panel also discuss whether talisman Victor Osimhen's histrionics overshadowed Nigeria's win and which of the big teams have impressed so far in the tournament.Timecodes:00:44 - Initial reflections on Nigeria's 2-1 win over Tanzania 04:51 - Thoughts on Victor Osimhen's performance 07:55 - Can Nigeria go all the way based on win over Tanzania? 10:18 - Encouraging performance from Tanzania 10:50 - Which big teams have impressed so far at the Afcon? 13:17 - South Africa v Egypt preview

Dec 23, 202515 min

Afcon 2025: Meet the contenders for African football's biggest prize

Can Morocco justify their tag as favourites on home soil? Could Mohamed Salah win an elusive title with Egypt? Can Nigeria bounce back from World Cup playoff disappointment? Could Riyad Mahrez and Sadio Mane be key for Algeria and Senegal? Or can Ivory Coast make it back to back titles?Former South Africa captain Dean Furman and the former Sierra Leone captain Steven Caulker joins Lee James and John Bennett to preview the tournament to answer these questions and more in our Africa Cup of Nations preview.They discuss who could go well at the African Cup of Nations, who could cause an upset and which players could shine at the tournament.Timecodes:04:45 - Interview with Morocco’s Sofyan Amrabat 07:30 - Can Morocco win as favourites? 11:00 - Interview with former Zambia forward Kalusha Bwalya 15:25 - Will talk around Mohamed Salah be a distraction for Egypt? 18:00 - Are South Africa good enough to win? 23:00 - Interview with Nigeria’s Frank Onyeka 24:45 - Does Victor Osimhen need to prove he is one of the best players in Africa? 27:50 - Interview with former Tunisia captain Radhi Jaidi 31:10 - Senegal focus 33:30 - DR Congo focus 36:00 - Algeria focus 39:25 - Interview with Sudan’s Abo Eisa 40:30 - Ivory Coast focus 43:05 - Cameroon focus 45:50 - Prediction time - players of the tournament, surprise team and winnersGROUPSGroup A - Morocco, Mali, Zambia, Comoros Group B - Egypt, South Africa, Angola, Zimbabwe Group C - Nigeria, Tunisia, Uganda, Tanzania Group D - Senegal, DR Congo, Benin, Botswana Group E - Algeria, Burkina Faso, Equitorial Guinea, Sudan Group F - Ivory Coast, Cameroon, Gabon, Mozambique

Dec 18, 202549 min

What next for Mo Salah and Liverpool?

World Football's Isaac Fanin and Mani Djazmi are joined by the former Liverpool defender Steven Caulker to discuss whether Mo Salah still has a future at Liverpool, following comments suggesting he's fallen out with manager Arne Slot and might be looking to leave Anfield.

Dec 7, 202529 min

USA 2026: Norway return to the men's World Cup

27 years after their last World Cup, Norway’s men have finally qualified for another one. With Erling Haaland, who scored 16 goals in eight qualifying matches, and a team that ran in 37 goals during the campaign, should the rest of the world be worried?Former Norway goalkeeper Erik Thorstvedt and journalist Lars Sivertsen join Mani Djazmi to discuss the team’s strengths and weaknesses.Photo: Staale Solbakken, Head Coach of Norway, is lifted into the air by players of Norway as they celebrate victory following the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Italy and Norway at San Siro Stadium on November 16, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Credit: Getty Images)

Nov 18, 202520 min

Why Soren Lerby played in two games on the same day

The club versus country row often causes friction, but midfielder Soren Lerby once found a way to satisfy both.He played for Denmark and Bayern Munich on the same day. In different countries.On the afternoon of 13 November 1984 - exactly 40 years ago - Lerby lined up for his national team in Dublin for their final qualifier for the 1986 World Cup.Bayern, meanwhile, had a last-16 German Cup match at Bochum later that evening.Photo: Soren Lerby of Denmark in may 1986 (Credit: VI Images via Getty Images)

Nov 14, 20258 min

Are Bayern Munich the best team in Europe?

Bayern Munich have yet to lose this season in the Bundesliga and the Champions League. The Bavarian club did show signs of vulnerability when they drew 2-2 draw at Union Berlin, which ended their 16-game winning streak from the start of the campaign. The result meant Bayern fell one game short of matching its Bundesliga-record 10-game winning start to the league from 2015. So are they the best team in Europe? Away from Germany, Dutch giants Ajax have sacked manager John Heitinga less than six months after he joined the club from Liverpool. Heitinga have won just five of his 11 Eredivisie matches in charge and the club have lost all four of their Champions League matches this season, including a 3-0 home defeat to Galatasaray on Wednesday. What is going wrong at Ajax.John Bennett is joined by German football writer Constantin Eckner, Dutch football reporter Arthur Renard, the BBC's Mike McCarthy and World Football's Mani Djazmi. (Image: Bayern Munich celebrating, Credit: Getty Images)

Nov 9, 202523 min

Mjallby: The fishing village club about to reel in the Swedish title

Mjallby, a team from a tiny fishing village, are about to become champions of Sweden for the first time.It’s one of the biggest shocks in recent European football history, and defender Tom Pettersson has been telling World Football’s Mani Djazmi how it’s happened.Image: Mjallby's Tom Pettersson against Djurgarden's Haris Radetinac during an Allsvenskan match between Djurgardens IF and Mjallby AIF at Tele2 Arena on May 21, 2023 in Stockholm, Sweden. (Photo by Michael Campanella/Getty Images)

Oct 18, 202513 min

Norwegian FA on decision to donate profits from Israel WCQ to Gaza aid

The President of the Norwegian Football Federation, Lise Klaveness, tells Mani Djazmi why they have chosen a home game against Israel to donate profits from ticket sales to a charity working in Gaza.Image: Norwegian Football Federation president Lise Klaveness looks on prior to the FIFA Women's World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023 Round of 16 match between Japan and Norway at Wellington Regional Stadium on August 05, 2023 in Wellington, New Zealand. (Photo by Maja Hitij - FIFA via Getty Images)

Oct 9, 202516 min

Kairat living the dream

It’s Champions League romance as Kazakhstan’s Kairat Almaty face the mighty Real Madrid.Kairat player Damir Kasabulat tells Mani Djazmi what it means just to be in the competition, the reaction when the players discovered that their first home game would be against Real Madrid, and who he might take to London when they play Arsenal.Image: Geovany Quenda of Sporting CP with Damir Kassabulat and Luis Mata of FC Kairat Almaty in action during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD1 match between Sporting Clube de Portugal and FC Kairat Almaty at Estadio Jose Alvalade. (Photo by David Martins/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)

Sep 29, 202510 min

Christian Burgess: The history graduate making history with Union Saint-Gilloise

Not many football players will be like Christian Burgess. The English defender has a first-class honours degree in history and is making history on the pitch for Belgian champions Union Saint-Gilloise.He’s captaining the side as they make their Champions League debut this season and Burgess tells World Football’s Mani Djazmi about his path from university to now Champions League football.He shares his disbelief at making his debut in Europe’s premier club competition just a month before his 34th birthday.Burgess shares his own personal view of the situation facing refugees trying to cross the English channel. There are many other opinions and we aim to reflect them all on the BBC World Service and across the BBC.Image: Christian Burgess of Union Saint-Gilloise celebrates after the team's victory during the UEFA Europa League 2023/24 match between R. Union Saint-Gilloise and Liverpool FC at Stade Joseph Marien on December 14, 2023 in Brussels, Belgium. (Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)

Sep 15, 202515 min

Who are the Champions League debutants making history?

Every season teams across Europe compete for a place in the Uefa Champions League, but who are the clubs from Cyprus, Norway, Belgium and even a team north of the Arctic Circle making their debuts in Europe’s top-tier club competition?Pafos FC of Cyprus, Norway's Bodo/Glimt, Kairat Almaty of Kazakhstan and Belgium’s Union Saint-Gilloise all advanced through the qualifying rounds to make history by reaching the competition’s league phase for the first time.Maz Farookhi is joined by football reporter George Addo to get the views from each of the four sides making their debuts.Image: Jaja (C) of Pafos celebrates after scoring a goal during the UEFA Champions League Play-offs Round Second Leg match between Pafos and Crvena Zvezda at Limassol Stadium on August 26, 2025 in Limassol, Cyprus. (Photo by Srdjan Stevanovic/Getty Images)

Aug 27, 202515 min

Fabio: World record holder

The Fluminense goalkeeper, Fabio, is the new holder of the world record for the number of professional appearances. His former teammate at Cruzeiro, Fabiano, tells Mani Djazmi about Fabio’s dedication and describes him as an inspiration for any player who wants to keep going for as long as possible.We also hear from Fluminense fan Bruno Stefano who was at Fabio’s historic 1,391st appearance.Photo: Fabio of Fluminese during the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 semi-final match between Fluminense FC and Chelsea FC at MetLife Stadium on July 8, 2025 in East Rutherford, United States. (Credit: AMA/Getty Images)

Aug 26, 202513 min

Eberechi Eze: The transfer dividing Arsenal and Tottenham

The future of England and Crystal Palace forward Eberechi Eze has been one of the major talking points of the current transfer window.It had been thought he would join Tottenham, with a deal agreed between the clubs until their biggest rivals in North London, Arsenal, also reached an agreement with Palace.Eze started his youth career with Arsenal, and has been one of Palace’s key players and helped them to win the FA Cup last season.John Bennett is joined by former Tottenham defender Stephen Kelly and Crystal Palace forward Kwesi Appiah as they give their perspectives.PHOTO CREDIT: Eberechi Eze of Crystal Palace celebrates scoring his sides goal which is later disallowed following a VAR review during the Premier League match between Chelsea and Crystal Palace at Stamford Bridge on August 17, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

Aug 21, 20257 min

Eurostars: Who are the teams and players to watch across Europe?

Ahead of the start of the European leagues, John Bennett brings together our European football experts to preview the Bundesliga, La Liga, Serie A and Ligue 1.Joining John is World Football’s Mani Djazmi, German writer and broadcaster Constantin Eckner, Italian football expert Daniele Verri, Ernest Macia from Radio Catalunya and L’Equipe’s Loic Tanzi.The panel discuss the big clubs and key battles in Europe as well as the teams and players to watch and also share who they think will win the Ballon d'Or.Image: Thomas Muller of FC Bayern Munich celebrates with the Meisterschale trophy after the teams 2-0 victory in the Bundesliga match between FC Bayern München and Borussia Mönchengladbach at Allianz Arena on May 10, 2025 in Munich, Germany. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)

Aug 14, 202543 min

Marshall Islands: ‘The last nation on earth’ to finally play an international football match

The Marshall Islands’ claim to sporting fame, according to themselves, has been that they’re the last nation in the world to have a senior national football team.They’ll take to the pitch for their very first 11v11 international match against US Virgin Islands at a tournament in Arkansas - where they'll also be playing against Turks and Caicos.Head coach Lloyd Owers describes the feeling of history being made and tells World Football’s Mani Djazmi about how they’ve reached this point.Image: The squad who will represent the Marshall Islands for the first time in an international fixture. (Credit: Marshall Islands Soccer Federation)

Aug 13, 202511 min

Who can stop Liverpool winning another Premier League title?

Are Liverpool the team to beat again? Will Arsenal, Manchester City and Chelsea be their closest challengers? Where will Manchester United finish? Can the three promoted clubs stay up?World Football’s John Bennett is joined by former Blackburn Rovers, Aston Villa, Tottenham Hotspur and USA goalkeeper Brad Friedel and former Everton, Fulham, Liverpool and England striker Natasha Dowie to preview the Premier League season.They discuss how teams are looking ahead of the season and also predict their title winners, the promoted team who is most likely to survive and their player to watch.Image: Virgil van Dijk of Liverpool, lifts the Premier League trophy, as Liverpool are crowned the Champions of the Premier League for the 2024/25 Season, following the Premier League match between Liverpool FC and Crystal Palace FC at Anfield on May 25, 2025 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

Aug 12, 202549 min

Mido: The Egyptian star aiming to unearth the next generation of talent

In this edition of World Football we’re chatting with one of the biggest names in Egyptian football, Mido.As a striker he spent his career with some of the biggest clubs across Europe representing the likes of Ajax, Roma, Marseille and Tottenham while also winning over 50 caps for his country.He’s now looking to unearth the next generation of Egyptian talent to follow in the footsteps of those who have gone before, and players like Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah and Manchester City’s Omar Marmoush who will both play key roles for their club sides and Egypt over the coming season.John Bennett has been speaking to Mido at The Maker Academy in Cairo.Image: Egyptian star striker Ahmad "Mido" Hossam celebrates after scoring the first goal against Libya during the opening football match at the African Nations Cup (CAN) in Cairo 20 January 2006. (Photo by KHALED DESOUKI/AFP via Getty Images)

Aug 5, 202511 min

Wafcon: Nigeria shock Morocco to complete Mission X

Maz Farookhi presents reaction from Rabat as Nigeria come back from 2-0 down to beat hosts Morocco 3-2 in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations final.For Nigeria, it is a record extending 10th title, while Morocco have now lost the last two finals.The Atlas Lionesses led 2-0 at the break in Rabat through Ghizlane Chebbak's fine curling effort and a scuffed shot from Sanaa Mssoudy.But Esther Okoronkwo inspired the West Africans after the break, pulling a goal back from the penalty spot in the 64th minute after Nouhaila Benzina handled Folamide Ijamilusi's cross.Okoronko burst into the Morocco box and squared for Ijamilusi to equalise in the 71st minute, then teed up substitute Jennifer Echegini to score the winner with two minutes of the game remaining.Four time Wafcon winner Desire Oparanozie and BBC Sport Africa’s Rob Stevens join Maz from the Olympic Stadium.Photo: Nigeria's players celebrate with the trophy on the podium after winning the 2025 Women's Africa Cup of Nations final football match against Morocco at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat on July 26, 2025. (Credit: AFP via Getty Images)

Jul 27, 202528 min

Wafcon final: Will hosts Morocco stop Nigeria’s Mission X?

Maz Farookhi is joined by the voice of African Football Mark Gleeson to preview the final of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations between Nigeria and Morocco.Four-time Wafcon winner Osinachi Ohale tells Maz about how she is helping the younger members of the Nigeria squad to prepare for the big occasion. Moroccan sports journalist Kaoutar Alaidi explains the anticipation in the country ahead of the host’s ambition to win the competition for the first time.North African football journalist Maher Mezahi joins Maz to discuss the controversial appointment of Morocco’s head coach Jorge Vilda and how a triumph for his side in Rabat could see him leave a long legacy on football in Morocco.Image: Morocco's players react during the penalty shootout at the end of the 2025 Women's Africa Cup of Nations semi-final football match between Morocco and Ghana at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat on July 22, 2025. (Photo by Abdel Majid BZIOUAT / AFP via Getty Images)

Jul 25, 202530 min

What a WAFCON win could do for Moroccan football

Bahiya Lahmidy, the head of women’s football at ASFAR, Morocco’s most successful club, tells Maz Farookhi about the club’s rise to dominance and how she hopes a Morocco win at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations could help develop football for females further in the country.Maz is also joined by BBC Sport Africa’s Rob Stevens on the legacy of this tournament and what needs to be done ahead as the country prepares to host a men’s and another women’s AFCON in the next 12 months.Image: Morocco's forward #19 Sakina Ouzraoui celebrates with defender #14 Aziza Rabbah after scoring her team's equaliser during the 2025 Women's Africa Cup of Nations semi-final football match against Ghana at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat on July 22, 2025. (Photo by Abdel Majid/AFP via Getty Images)

Jul 24, 202515 min

Morocco and Nigeria reach Wafcon final after semi-final drama

The two finalists of this year's Women’s Africa Cup of Nations are now confirmed, but it wasn’t without drama for both Morocco and Nigeria.BBC World Football’s Maz Farookhi is in Casablanca where she saw Nigeria beat defending champions South Africa 2-1 with a dramatic stoppage time winner. Maz dissects the match with sports journalists Firdose Moonda and Onyinyechi Obaroh.Match winner Michelle Alozie shares the emotion of scoring the goal that sent Nigeria through to the final and also hear from South Africa defender Lebohang Ramalepe.Nigeria will face the hosts Morocco in the final and Piers Edwards reflects on their penalty shootout win in their semi-final against Ghana, with the former Nigeria goalkeeper Rachael Ayegba.Image: Morocco's players celebrate after winning the 2025 Women's Africa Cup of Nations semi-final football match against Ghana at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat on July 22, 2025. (Photo by Abdel Majid BZIOUAT / AFP via Getty Images)

Jul 23, 202532 min

WAFCON: Ghana look to reach the final for first time in 19 years

BBC World Football’s Maz Farookhi is joined by Ghanian sports journalist Veronica Commey to discuss the Black Queens run to the semi-finals of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.Ghana have reached the last four for the first time since 2016 and Commey believes their future is bright, even if the three-times runners up don’t go on to lift the trophy. She also believes they face a difficult atmosphere against hosts Morocco but is confident the players won’t suffer with stage fright. Plus, the BBC's Celestine Karoney has been inside the Ghana camp to speak to winger, Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah.Credit: Cynthia Konlan of Ghana looks on during the FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup Costa Rica 2022 group D match between Japan and Ghana at Alejandro Morera Soto on August 14, 2022 in Alajuela, Costa Rica. (Photo: FIFA via Getty Images)

Jul 21, 202516 min

WAFCON 2024: The Final Four

The dust is still settling after two more dramatic quarter-finals went the distance on Saturday, and we now know our final four at this Women’s Africa Cup of Nations. It includes two of the tournament heavyweights: Nigeria face South Africa on Tuesday. The nine-time champions sailed through their quarter final with a 5-0 win over Zambia. Meanwhile, reigning champions South Africa failed to find a goal in the 90 minutes or in extra time on Saturday against Senegal - but got over the line in the penalty shoot-out. Ghana play Morocco in Tuesday’s later kick-off. Maz Farookhi and guests look ahead to all the action, and we hear from Nigeria and Super Falcons defender Ashley Plumptre about the potential of a return of the grudge match-up with South Africa from three years ago.

Jul 20, 202548 min

Euro 2025: The Final Four

The semi-final line up is complete for the Women's Euros 2025. Italy will face defending champions England on Tuesday in Geneva while world champions Spain will come up against the eight time winners Germany on Wednesday in Zurich. Delyth Lloyd and Sophia Hartley are joined by experts to preview both fixtures – it’s the first time Italy have reached this stage since 1997, so are they the surprise team of the tournament? We hear from England’s Beth Mead, and discuss the power of the Lionesses’ bench. And when it comes to the World Champions, Spain, have they really been challenged so far in the tournament? Plus, we discuss the penalty conundrum that has plagued the tournament – with Germany goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger’s outstanding performance to help her side defy France, paired with Germany’s prowess from the spot, would that give the eight-time champions the edge should it come down to penalties?

Jul 20, 202542 min

Wafcon: Best defence v best attack?

Zambia take on Nigeria in the quarterfinals of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, looking to improve on their third placed finish in 2022.Barbra Banda and Rachel Kundananji will be leading their attack, so how will Nigeria stop them? Standing in their way will be Nigeria goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie who’s been speaking to BBC World Football's Maz Farookhi.Maz also speaks to Banda and is joined on the podcast by Zambian sports journalist Lydia Makina and ex Nigeria goalkeeper Rachel Ayegba to preview the stand out tie.Credit: Zambia's forward #11 Barbra Banda celebrates scoring a goal in the women's group B football match between Australia and Zambia during the Paris 2024 Olympic Games at the Nice Stadium in Nice on July 28, 2024. (Photo: AFP via Getty Images)

Jul 17, 202525 min

WAFCON: Nigeria vs Zambia - The big quarterfinal showdown

World Football's Maz Farookhi previews the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations quarterfinals from Morocco with Nigeria journalist Biola Solace-Chukwu from Ladies March and Moroccan journalist Kaoutar Alaidi.You’ll hear from Nigeria’s Rasheedat Ajibade about what it’s like to captain the Super Falcons players and what they have learned from the group stage as they face title rivals Zambia, plus Maz discusses the hopes of Morocco and South Africa in the tournament.Photo: Rasheedat Ajibade #15 of Team Nigeria reacts during the Women's group C match between Nigeria and Brazil during the Olympic Games Paris 2024 at Nouveau Stade de Bordeaux on July 25, 2024 in Bordeaux, France. (Credit: FIFA via Getty Images)

Jul 15, 202526 min

Club World Cup Final: John Bennett looks ahead to PSG v Chelsea

Chelsea are taking on Paris Saint-Germain in the first ever final of the new look, expanded FIFA Club World Cup. It’s a tournament that’s made headlines on and off the pitch since it kicked off in June. Sportsworld’s John Bennett is joined by two experts from London and Paris to look ahead to the final in New Jersey.

Jul 11, 202510 min

WAFCON: Nigeria book first spot in the quarter-finals

Nigeria are the first team through to the quarter-finals of WAFCON after defeating Botswana 1-0 at Stade El Arbi Zaouli in Casablanca on Thursday.World Football's Sophia Hartley, the BBC’s Ian Williams and the former Nigerian goalkeeper Rachael Ayegba reflect on the win and discuss who they could play in the last eight.PHOTO: Oshoala of Nigeria and Fc Barcelona during the FIFA Women's World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023 Round of 16 match between England and Nigeria at Brisbane Stadium on August 7, 2023 in Brisbane, Australia. (Photo by Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

Jul 11, 202515 min

WAFCON: South Africa's challenges on and off the pitch

Sophia Hartley is joined by footballer writer Firdose Moonda and South African sport journalist Buisiswe Mokwena to discuss the start of Banyana Banyana's defence of their Women's Africa Cup of Nations title. There are questions over how the title holders will fare in the start of their campaign amidst ongoing disputes in the South African camp.PHOTO: SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - AUGUST 06: Desiree Ellis, Head Coach of South Africa, is seen prior to the FIFA Women's World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023 Round of 16 match between Netherlands and South Africa at Sydney Football Stadium on August 06, 2023 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

Jul 9, 202515 min

Nigeria target tenth WAFCON title after first win

Nigeria’s Women’s Africa Cup of Nations campaign began with a convincing 3-0 victory against Tunisia. As the Super Falcons bid for a historic tenth WAFCON title, Sophia Hartley is joined by former Nigerian goalkeeper Rachel Ayegba to reflect on the opening weekend fixtures of the 2024 Women’s African Cup of Nations, plus you’ll hear from former Super Falcons goalkeeper Desire Oparanozie who is covering the tournament in Morocco.PHOTO: BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA - JULY 31: Asisat Oshoala of Nigeria reacts after a missed chance during the FIFA Women's World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023 Group B match between Ireland and Nigeria at Brisbane Stadium on July 31, 2023 in Brisbane, Australia. (Photo by Chris Hyde - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)

Jul 7, 202515 min

Just eight teams left in the FIFA Club World Cup.

Mani Djazmi is joined by Eduardo Alvarez to look back on the Club World Cup so far - analysing the performances of Manchester City, Real Madrid, and the Brazilian clubs – and assessing just how much of a shock was provided by Al-Hilal as they beat Manchester City.They discuss the issues the tournament has faced and also look ahead to the quarter-final ties and plot a path to glory for one of them.PHOTO: ORLANDO, FLORIDA - JUNE 30: Ruben Neves of Al Hilal celebrates after the win at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 round of 16 match between Manchester City and Al-Hilal at Camping World Stadium on June 30, 2025 in Orlando, Florida. (Photo by Richard Sellers/Sportsphoto/Allstar via Getty Images)

Jul 3, 202519 min

Denmark twins Karen and Sara Holmgaard are ready for a special EURO 2025

World Football meets identical twins Karen and Sara Holmgaard, who are both in Denmark’s squad for Euro 2025. They tell John Bennett that going to Switzerland as a pair is special and that it’s a dream to play together, after Karen missed the 2023 World Cup through injury. They also discuss the influence Pernille Harder has on Denmark’s squad and their hopes for the tournament.The twins spent last season playing for Everton and discuss how they feel, following the announcement Sara is leaving the club for Real Madrid. PHOTO: HELSINGOR, DENMARK - JUNE 21: (L-R) Sara Holmgaard and Karen Holmgaard of Denmark pose for a portrait during the official UEFA Women's EURO 2022 portrait session on June 21, 2022 in Helsingor, Denmark. (Photo by Oliver Hardt - UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images)

Jul 2, 202512 min

Euro 2025: Made in Switzerland

Sophia Hartley looks ahead to UEFA Women’s EURO 2025 and the country at the heart of Europe hosting this year’s tournament, Switzerland. With access inside the Swiss camp and a seat at the table with UEFA Head of Women’s Football Nadine Kessler, World football explores what people can expect from the hosts, their chances in the tournament and what legacy they hope to create. You’ll also hear from Swiss Captain Lia Walti and Head Coach Pia Sundhage as well as Swiss-German football journalist Helene Altgelt.Photo: Switzerland's forward #7 Riola Xhemaili celebrates scoring her team's first goal during an international women's friendly football match between Switzerland and Czech Republic, ahead of the Women Euro 2025 tournament, at stadium Schuetzenwiese in Winterthur, on June 26, 2025. (Photo by Fabrice COFFRINI / AFP) (Photo by FABRICE COFFRINI/AFP via Getty Images)

Jun 30, 202525 min

The Women’s Africa Cup of Nations Preview

The build up is well under way ahead of the 15th Women's Africa Cup of Nations.The tournament is taking place in Morocco with 12 teams are taking part including the holders South Africa.Delyth Lloyd is joined by World Football’s Maz Farookhi as well as the former Nigeria goalkeeper Rachael Ayegba and South African football journalist Busisiwe Mokwena as they discuss the big talking points.You’ll also hear from Nigerian superstar Asisat Oshoala and Zambia’s Barbra Banda.

Jun 29, 202538 min

Can African teams make an impression at the Club World Cup?

Many of the world’s biggest clubs are playing in the Club World Cup in the United States, but does the expanded, new look tournament give the African sides a chance to make an impression?Egypt's Al Ahly, South Africa's Mamelodi Sundowns, Wydad Casablanca of Morocco and Tunisia's Esperance are the teams looking to outperform European superclubs and other contenders from across the globe.Hear from former South Africa defender Mark Fish and South African football journalist Mo Allie on Sundowns chances.Image: Photos of the second leg of the CAF Champions League semi-final between Al Ahly of Egypt and Mamelodi Sundowns of South Africa, which ends in a 1-1 draw for Sundowns in Cairo, Egypt, on April 25, 2025. (Photo by Mohsen Nabil/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

Jun 17, 20258 min

What can we expect from the Club World Cup?

Ahead of the newly expanded Club World Cup, World Football’s Mani Djazmi is joined by Spanish football journalist Eduardo Alvarez to look ahead to the tournament taking place in the United States.Thirty-two teams from around the globe will take part in the tournament across 11 cities in the US, with the final taking place on 13 July.Plus, we also hear from striker Angus Kilkolly who plays for the tournament’s only amateurs, Auckland City.Photo: General view of the FIFA Club World Cup Trophy in exposition at Estadio da Luz during the FIFA Club World Cup Trophy Tour on January 17, 2025 in Lisbon, Portugal. (Credit: FIFA via Getty Images)

Jun 13, 202516 min

What next for Mauricio Pochettino and the USMNT?

With a year to go until they co-host the World Cup, the USA men's national team are on a run of 4 defeats in a row. So after his high-profile appointment in 2024, how much pressure is head coach Mauricio Pochettino under? And can USA find form before they co-host the World Cup in 2026 with Canada and Mexico.World Football's John Bennett is joined by former MLS player and current CBS analyst Michael Lahoud, as well as US football writer Zach Lowy. Plus hear from Pochettino and the former USA manager Jurgen Klinsmann.Photo: USA head coach Mauricio Pochettino observing his players during a Concacaf Nations League game between Canada and USMNT at SoFi Stadium at on March 23, 2025 in Inglewood, California. (Credit: ISI Photos/Getty Images)

Jun 11, 202513 min

The struggle for Iranian women to attend football matches - 20 years on

This week marks the 20th anniversary of the start of a campaign for female football fans in Iran to be allowed in to stadia to watch men’s matches.On the 8th June 2005 Iran’s men’s team played their final World Cup qualification match against Bahrain. A group of women went to the Azadi stadium to reclaim what they had lost after the 1979 revolution, including the right to go to stadiums and watch football.So what impact did the events of that day have on football in Iran? World Football's Mani Djazmi has been across the story.Photo: Players of Iran celebrate after the 2026 FIFA World Cup Asian Qualifiers Group A game between Iran and Uzbekistan at Azadi Stadium on March 25, 2025 in Tehran, Iran. Iran's national football team celebrated after securing qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a 2-2 draw against Uzbekistan. (Credit: Anadolu via Getty Images)

Jun 10, 202522 min

History made: Debutants Uzbekistan and Jordan celebrate World Cup places

Uzbekistan and Jordan have qualified for the men’s Fifa World Cup for the first time, but what’s the reaction been like and how significant is it for the two countries?World Football’s Isaac Fanin spoke to BBC journalists Khaldoon Alshamayleh in Amman, the capital of Jordan, and Firdavs Zavkiev in the Uzbek capital Tashkent to gauge the reaction.South Korea also secured their place at the tournament with 10 countries now confirmed for the expanded 48-team tournament in United States, Canada and Mexico.The three hosts have qualified automatically, while Japan, New Zealand, Iran and Argentina have also confirmed their spots.Image: Uzbekistan's players celebrate after their 2026 FIFA World Cup Asian Qualifier football match against the United Arab Emirates ended in a draw, qualifying them for the World Cup for the first time, at Al-Nahyan Stadium in Abu Dhabi on June 5, 2025. (Photo by Fadel SENNA / AFP via Getty Images)

Jun 6, 20258 min

Australia to Argentina: Premier League fans' review of the season

As well as the big name players and coaches we hear from here on World Football, we also want to hear from you, the fans. During the English Premier League season on our Sportsworld programme we've been speaking to supporters from around the world in our international fans panel to gauge what they've been making of their clubs fortunes From Germany to Ghana and Argentina to Australia, we've covered the globe. Along with World Football's own Mani Djazmi, we’ve been catching up with some of those supporters to review the season. Photo: Virgil van Dijk of Liverpool lifts the trophy after the Premier League match between Liverpool FC and Crystal Palace FC at Anfield on May 25, 2025 in Liverpool, England. (Credit: Getty Images for The Premier League)

Jun 3, 202547 min