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  • FIBA World Rankings August 2024: USA Dominates as South Sudan Tops Africa | Xtrafrica

    FIBA World Rankings August 2024: USA Dominates as South Sudan Tops Africa Prince Jean Aug 16, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link The August 2024 update of the FIBA World Rankings reveals the enduring dominance of USA basketball at the top, followed by Serbia, which surged into second place. Credit: gettyimages The latest FIBA World Rankings, updated following the Paris 2024 Olympics, have introduced significant changes in the global basketball landscape. The rankings, based on performances in recent international competitions, highlight the dominance of traditional basketball powerhouses while spotlighting the rapid rise of emerging nations, especially in Africa. Top 4 Teams in the World USA The United States continues its reign at the top of the FIBA World Rankings, following their gold medal victory at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Team USA, with its depth of talent and consistent international success, remains the world’s premier basketball nation. Their dominance in the sport is reflected in their solid hold on the number one ranking . Serbia Serbia has surged into second place in the global rankings, climbing two spots. This rise is attributed to their silver medal at the Olympics and consistent performance in international tournaments. Serbia's basketball program continues to grow stronger, making them a formidable contender on the global stage Germany Germany, despite a slight drop to third place, remains a strong force in international basketball. Their impressive bronze medal finish at the Olympics, coupled with a series of strong performances over the past year, keeps them among the world's elite basketball nations . France France made the most significant leap within the top five, climbing five spots to claim the fourth position. Their outstanding performance at the Olympics, where they reached the gold medal game, has solidified their place as one of the top basketball teams globally. France’s rise underscores the country’s growing influence in the sport . Top 2 Teams in Africa South Sudan South Sudan has made a historic leap in the FIBA World Rankings, jumping from 34th to 23rd globally. This impressive rise makes South Sudan the highest-ranked African team. Their first-ever appearance in the Olympics, which included a groundbreaking victory, has catapulted them to the top of African basketball. South Sudan's ascent highlights the country’s rapid development and growing influence in the sport . Côte d'Ivoire Côte d'Ivoire, now ranked second in Africa, remains a dominant force on the continent. Despite being overtaken by South Sudan, they continue to be a consistent performer in both regional and international tournaments. Côte d'Ivoire’s sustained success ensures their continued presence among Africa’s basketball elite. Kenyan Federation Elections Sammy Owino Pledges to Eradicate Corruption in Kenyan Football English Premier League Amorim Calls for Bravery as Manchester United Prepares to Face Arsenal AFCON Build_Ups Uganda Allocates Shs350 Billion for CHAN 2025 Preparations English Premier League Ipswich Captain Faces Backlash After Declining Rainbow Armband Related Posts Sammy Owino Pledges to Eradicate Corruption in Kenyan Football Kenyan Federation Elections . Amorim Calls for Bravery as Manchester United Prepares to Face Arsenal English Premier League . Uganda Allocates Shs350 Billion for CHAN 2025 Preparations AFCON Build_Ups . Ipswich Captain Faces Backlash After Declining Rainbow Armband English Premier League .

  • Medals Table Showdown: Who's Leading the 2024 Olympics? | Xtrafrica

    Medals Table Showdown: Who's Leading the 2024 Olympics? Prince Jean Aug 11, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Olympics 2024: Analyzing the Medals Table and Global Sporting Prowess The 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris has brought together the world's top athletes to compete across a wide array of sports, showcasing skill, endurance, and the spirit of competition. As the games progress, the medals table becomes a focal point of interest, highlighting not only the athletic achievements of individual competitors but also the sporting prowess of nations. The Race for the Top The United States, China, and host nation France are leading the charge, with each country fielding strong teams in key events. Historically dominant in athletics, swimming, and gymnastics, the United States continues to amass gold medals, maintaining its position as a global sporting superpower. China, with its consistent excellence in diving, weightlifting, and table tennis, remains a formidable contender, closely trailing the U.S. Meanwhile, France is leveraging the home advantage to secure a record number of podium finishes in various disciplines, from judo to cycling. Emerging Nations Making Their Mark Beyond the usual suspects, several emerging nations are making significant strides on the medals table. Countries like Brazil, Nigeria, and India have made headlines with breakthrough performances in sports traditionally dominated by others. Brazil's success in beach volleyball, Nigeria's dominance in track events, and India's rising profile in badminton and wrestling are testaments to the growing global distribution of athletic talent. The Battle for Continental Supremacy The 2024 Olympics is also witnessing intense competition at the continental level. Europe, with its deep pool of talent across diverse sports, is competing fiercely with North America and Asia for the most medals. African nations are also making a strong showing, particularly in athletics, where they continue to outperform many larger nations. Key Highlights So Far Swimming : The U.S. swimming team has once again proven its dominance, with multiple golds across various events, particularly in relays and individual medleys. Track and Field : Jamaica, Kenya, and Ethiopia are living up to expectations, particularly in middle and long-distance events, where they have secured numerous podium finishes. Gymnastics : Simone Biles’ return to the Olympics has been nothing short of spectacular, contributing to the U.S. medals tally and inspiring millions worldwide. Team Sports : France's men’s handball team and Brazil's football team are both on track for gold, adding to their nations' overall medal counts. A Closer Look at the Medals Table As of 08/11/2024, the medals table is as follows: Rank Country Gold Silver Bronze Total 1 United States 38 42 42 122 2 China 39 27 24 90 3 France 14 22 27 63 4 Great Britain 16 24 22 62 The 2024 Olympics is more than just a competition; it is a celebration of the human spirit and the unity that sports can bring to the world. The medals table, while a reflection of national success, also underscores the diversity and richness of global talent. As the games continue, it will be fascinating to see how the table evolves and which nations will rise to the occasion. Kenyan Federation Elections Sammy Owino Pledges to Eradicate Corruption in Kenyan Football English Premier League Amorim Calls for Bravery as Manchester United Prepares to Face Arsenal AFCON Build_Ups Uganda Allocates Shs350 Billion for CHAN 2025 Preparations English Premier League Ipswich Captain Faces Backlash After Declining Rainbow Armband Related Posts Sammy Owino Pledges to Eradicate Corruption in Kenyan Football Kenyan Federation Elections . Amorim Calls for Bravery as Manchester United Prepares to Face Arsenal English Premier League . Uganda Allocates Shs350 Billion for CHAN 2025 Preparations AFCON Build_Ups . Ipswich Captain Faces Backlash After Declining Rainbow Armband English Premier League .

  • Steam Deck: Everything You Need to Know (Updated 2024) | Xtrafrica

    Steam Deck: Everything You Need to Know (Updated 2024) Drew Mcgee Nov 24, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link The Steam Deck is a handheld gaming device by Valve The Steam Deck is Valve’s handheld gaming device that lets you play PC games on the go. It’s like having a small gaming PC in your hands. Here’s what’s new, including the latest models, prices, and features. Steam Deck Prices and Models (2024) Valve now offers both LCD and OLED versions of the Steam Deck: 256GB LCD Model : $399 7-inch LCD screen, 1280 x 800 resolution, up to 60Hz refresh rate. 512GB OLED Model : $549 7.4-inch OLED screen, same resolution but smoother (up to 90Hz refresh rate). 1TB OLED Model : $649 Includes anti-glare glass for better visibility and more storage. Special Edition : A limited white and grey OLED model is also available. It comes with the same specs as the 1TB model and an exclusive carrying case. Steam Deck Performance and Features The Steam Deck is powered by a custom AMD processor, which combines a Zen 2 CPU and RDNA 2 graphics . It’s powerful enough to play modern games, similar to what you’d get on older consoles like the PS4 or Xbox One. OLED Model Improvements : Better Display : The OLED screen offers brighter colors and sharper images compared to the LCD. Longer Battery Life : Thanks to a bigger battery and a more efficient chip, it lasts 3–12 hours depending on the game. Faster Wi-Fi : The OLED versions come with Wi-Fi 6E , which is faster and more reliable for online gaming. Despite these upgrades, the performance (how well games run) is the same as the older versions. The focus is on a better screen and longer playtime. Availability You can buy the Steam Deck in many regions worldwide. Pre-ordering is unnecessary now; you can buy directly from Valve’s website. Why Choose the Steam Deck? The Steam Deck gives you access to your PC gaming library anywhere. With the new OLED models, it’s even better for those who want brighter screens and longer battery life. Whether you’re gaming at home or on the move, the Steam Deck is a great choice for portable gaming. Business and Industry Thika Cloth Mills Boosts Kenya’s Cotton Industry . Banking and Finance Northern Senators debated Tax Reform Bills aimed at easing tax burdens, boosting local revenue . Samsung Galaxy Z Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 6, Z Flip 6, Watch 7, Watch Ultra, Buds 3, and Buds 3 Pro Debut at Unpacked Event . Energy and Commodities This is What will happen to those who breach Eskom meter upgrade deadline . Related Posts Business and Industry Thika Cloth Mills Boosts Kenya’s Cotton Industry . Banking and Finance Northern Senators debated Tax Reform Bills aimed at easing tax burdens, boosting local revenue . Samsung Galaxy Z Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 6, Z Flip 6, Watch 7, Watch Ultra, Buds 3, and Buds 3 Pro Debut at Unpacked Event . Energy and Commodities This is What will happen to those who breach Eskom meter upgrade deadline .

  • Burna Boy- Ayra Starr- Rema Lead at 2024 MTV Europe Music Awards | Xtrafrica

    Burna Boy- Ayra Starr- Rema Lead at 2024 MTV Europe Music Awards Prince Jean Oct 9, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link African Stars Shine Bright at the 2024 MTV Europe Music Awards. Credit:gettyimages The 2024 MTV Europe Music Awards (EMAs) is shaping up to be an exciting event, with a lineup that reflects the diversity and global influence of today's music scene. Set to take place on November 10 at the Co-op Live Arena in Manchester, this year's awards will mark the 30th anniversary of the EMAs, a global celebration of music that consistently brings together top talent from various genres. Taylor Swift leads the nominations with seven nods, continuing her reign as a pop icon. She’s up for prestigious categories like Best Artist and Best Video, alongside other notable artists such as Ariana Grande, Billie Eilish, and Sabrina Carpenter. African music is also well-represented, with Ayra Starr and Burna Boy both receiving nominations, highlighting the global rise of Afrobeats. In the rock and alternative categories, legendary bands like Coldplay and Green Day are competing, while newer acts such as Twenty One Pilots and YUNGBLUD bring fresh energy to the stage. The K-pop wave remains strong, with artists like Lisa from BLACKPINK and the groups LE SSERAFIM and Stray Kids receiving multiple nominations. As always, fans play a huge role in the event, with voting open until November 6. Whether you’re rooting for pop sensations, hip-hop heavyweights, or the best of Afrobeats, the 2024 MTV EMAs is set to be a night full of surprises, energy, and powerful performances. Related Posts Alikiba Surpasses 200 Million Boomplay Streams, Joining Bongo Flava's Elite Read More Tanzania Afrobeat Celebrities Wizkid’s Morayo Makes Billboard 200 Debut with Emotional Tribute Read More Nigeria | African Music Ruger and Victony Set to Light Up Kigali’s BK Arena This December Read More Rwanda | African Music Bishop Mbonyintege Condemns Comedians Impersonating Clergy Read More Rwanda | Comedy

  • Argentina Tops FIFA Rankings as Belgium Rises and Nigeria Surges | Xtrafrica

    Argentina Tops FIFA Rankings as Belgium Rises and Nigeria Surges Prince Jean Oct 24, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Argentina retains the top spot in the FIFA rankings, with Belgium rising to third and Nigeria making a notable climb to 36th in the latest October 2024 update. The latest FIFA Men's World Ranking, as of October 24, 2024, shows Argentina retaining the top position with 1,858 points after consistent performances. France is ranked second with 1,840 points, despite a minor decrease. Belgium, climbing back into third place, continues to perform well in recent matches, tallying 1,795 points. England, with 1,794 points, holds fourth place, narrowly surpassing Brazil, which slipped to fifth with 1,788 points. Portugal , Netherlands, Spain, and Italy make up the rest of the top ten, with Italy’s recent rise to ninth marking its best standing in several months One of the notable movers is Nigeria, which advanced three places to 36th, signaling their upward trajectory. Meanwhile, Ghana has dropped to 73rd, facing challenges in maintaining its previous ranking. The rankings are crucial as they influence seedings for upcoming tournaments and qualification matches. Teams will look to consolidate their positions or bounce back in the next round of international fixtures Kenyan Federation Elections Sammy Owino Pledges to Eradicate Corruption in Kenyan Football English Premier League Amorim Calls for Bravery as Manchester United Prepares to Face Arsenal AFCON Build_Ups Uganda Allocates Shs350 Billion for CHAN 2025 Preparations English Premier League Ipswich Captain Faces Backlash After Declining Rainbow Armband Related Posts Sammy Owino Pledges to Eradicate Corruption in Kenyan Football Kenyan Federation Elections . Amorim Calls for Bravery as Manchester United Prepares to Face Arsenal English Premier League . Uganda Allocates Shs350 Billion for CHAN 2025 Preparations AFCON Build_Ups . Ipswich Captain Faces Backlash After Declining Rainbow Armband English Premier League .

  • Jose Mourinho Criticizes Osimhen's Attitude as "Frustrating" | Xtrafrica

    Jose Mourinho Criticizes Osimhen's Attitude as "Frustrating" Prince Jean Sep 13, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Jose Mourinho Criticizes Victor Osimhen's On-Field Behaviour, Warns it Could Tarnish His Reputation. Photo:gettyimages Famed football coach Jose Mourinho has expressed concerns about Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen's behavior during matches, specifically criticizing his tendency to dive in critical game situations. Despite acknowledging Osimhen's remarkable talent, Mourinho warned that such actions could damage the player's image. Osimhen, widely regarded as one of Africa's top footballers alongside Mohamed Salah, has gained international recognition for his prowess as a forward. However, Mourinho, currently managing Fenerbahçe SK, emphasized the importance of sportsmanship and urged the striker to improve his conduct on the field to secure lasting success. “He is a fantastic player, but I don’t like the way he behaves. He dives too much. I told him, ‘You and Mohamed Salah are the best African players. In the past, it was Didier Drogba, Samuel Eto’o, and George Weah. You cannot behave like this,’” Mourinho said in a statement on X (formerly Twitter). Following a failed transfer to Chelsea , Osimhen has now completed a loan move to Turkish club Galatasaray, with his salary fully covered. The striker is reportedly eyeing a future move to Chelsea or another top European team, as his time at Napoli appears to be coming to an end. Kenyan Federation Elections Sammy Owino Pledges to Eradicate Corruption in Kenyan Football English Premier League Amorim Calls for Bravery as Manchester United Prepares to Face Arsenal AFCON Build_Ups Uganda Allocates Shs350 Billion for CHAN 2025 Preparations English Premier League Ipswich Captain Faces Backlash After Declining Rainbow Armband Related Posts Sammy Owino Pledges to Eradicate Corruption in Kenyan Football Kenyan Federation Elections . Amorim Calls for Bravery as Manchester United Prepares to Face Arsenal English Premier League . Uganda Allocates Shs350 Billion for CHAN 2025 Preparations AFCON Build_Ups . Ipswich Captain Faces Backlash After Declining Rainbow Armband English Premier League .

  • Karl Toko Ekambi Shines in Al-Ettifaq's King's Cup Victory | Xtrafrica

    Karl Toko Ekambi Shines in Al-Ettifaq's King's Cup Victory Prince Jean Sep 24, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Karl Toko Ekambi celebrates after scoring twice in Al-Ettifaq's 2-0 win over Al-Adalah in the King's Cup.Credit:gettyimages In a crucial King's Cup match last night, Karl Toko Ekambi delivered a standout performance, leading Al-Ettifaq to a 2-0 victory over Al-Adalah. Ekambi's contribution was decisive, as he scored both goals in the second half, sealing his team's place in the next round of the tournament. The match remained goalless at halftime, but Ekambi broke the deadlock in the 78th minute with a well-placed shot. As the game approached full time, Ekambi struck again during added time (90+4'), securing the win and underlining his importance to the squad. This performance builds on his already impressive record since joining Al-Ettifaq earlier this year, demonstrating his ability to step up in crucial moments. His contributions continue to inspire both teammates and fans as Al-Ettifaq look to advance deeper into the competition. Kenyan Federation Elections Sammy Owino Pledges to Eradicate Corruption in Kenyan Football English Premier League Amorim Calls for Bravery as Manchester United Prepares to Face Arsenal AFCON Build_Ups Uganda Allocates Shs350 Billion for CHAN 2025 Preparations English Premier League Ipswich Captain Faces Backlash After Declining Rainbow Armband Related Posts Sammy Owino Pledges to Eradicate Corruption in Kenyan Football Kenyan Federation Elections . Amorim Calls for Bravery as Manchester United Prepares to Face Arsenal English Premier League . Uganda Allocates Shs350 Billion for CHAN 2025 Preparations AFCON Build_Ups . Ipswich Captain Faces Backlash After Declining Rainbow Armband English Premier League .

  • Bruce Melodie Meets Rwanda’s Ambassador in Canada During Concert Tour | Xtrafrica

    Bruce Melodie Meets Rwanda’s Ambassador in Canada During Concert Tour Prince Jean Nov 28, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Bruce Melodie meets Rwanda’s Ambassador to Canada, Prosper Higiro, during his Canadian concert tour to promote Rwandan culture and talent internationally. Bruce Melodie, who has been in Canada for a series of concerts, met Rwanda’s Ambassador to Canada, Prosper Higiro, on November 27, 2024. The singer shared his excitement about the meeting on social media but did not disclose much about their discussions. Bruce Melodie wrote, “I am proud to represent Rwanda on an international stage by promoting its culture, talent, and diplomacy. Together, we continue to showcase the beauty and potential of our beloved country.” The artist began his concerts in October 2024 , starting with a show in Ottawa on October 26. The event was packed with attendees, mostly Rwandans living in Ottawa and nearby areas. Following Ottawa, Bruce Melodie performed in Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver, making his Canadian tour a great success. Related Posts Alikiba Surpasses 200 Million Boomplay Streams, Joining Bongo Flava's Elite Read More Tanzania Afrobeat Celebrities Wizkid’s Morayo Makes Billboard 200 Debut with Emotional Tribute Read More Nigeria | African Music Ruger and Victony Set to Light Up Kigali’s BK Arena This December Read More Rwanda | African Music Bishop Mbonyintege Condemns Comedians Impersonating Clergy Read More Rwanda | Comedy

  • Asake Expresses Desire to Collaborate with Musical Inspiration Wizkid | Xtrafrica

    Asake Expresses Desire to Collaborate with Musical Inspiration Wizkid Prince Jean Aug 9, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Asake Reveals Wizkid as Key Musical Inspiration, Celebrates Collaboration on New Album 'Lungu Boy'. Credit:gettyimages Afrobeats sensation Ahmed Ololade, popularly known as Asake, has shared that Grammy-winning artist Wizkid is one of his primary musical inspirations. The revelation comes as the two Nigerian music stars collaborate on Asake’s recently released third studio album, Lungu Boy . Asake and Wizkid teamed up on the track "MMS," which is now available on all major digital streaming platforms. Reflecting on the collaboration, Asake expressed his admiration for Wizkid, stating, "It’s no secret that Wizkid is one of my musical inspirations. As a young, striving artist in Lagos, I’ve been waiting for the right opportunity. When it came, it was a no-brainer." He further explained the significance of the track, adding, "'MMS' stands for 'Mr Money Sound' and captures my musical journey." This collaboration is poised to attract significant attention in the Afrobeats scene, further solidifying Asake's rising influence in the industry. Related Posts Alikiba Surpasses 200 Million Boomplay Streams, Joining Bongo Flava's Elite Read More Tanzania Afrobeat Celebrities Wizkid’s Morayo Makes Billboard 200 Debut with Emotional Tribute Read More Nigeria | African Music Ruger and Victony Set to Light Up Kigali’s BK Arena This December Read More Rwanda | African Music Bishop Mbonyintege Condemns Comedians Impersonating Clergy Read More Rwanda | Comedy

  • Peter Okoye Responds to Brother Paul's Song Theft Accusation | Xtrafrica

    Peter Okoye Responds to Brother Paul's Song Theft Accusation Prince Jean Nov 10, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Peter Okoye, aka Mr P, addresses song theft allegations from twin brother Paul (Rudeboy), clarifying collaboration details on the song "Winning." Peter Okoye, known as Mr P and a former member of P-Square, has responded to accusations from his twin brother, Paul Okoye (Rudeboy), who recently claimed that Peter and their former producer, Vampire, had taken his song without permission. Rudeboy alleged that the track, titled “Winning,” was his work and was planned for release with his upcoming album. In response, Mr P clarified that “Winning” was co-written with songwriter Calypso60 and that he could not “steal” what he co-created. He thanked Vampire for clearing up the issue and emphasized the collaborative nature of the song. Peter posted on Instagram, stating, “Person no dey thief him own property! ‘Winning’ was written and composed by @calypso60music and myself, produced by @iam_vampire_official, and co-produced by @goldswarm. They all deserve credit.” He also requested to be allowed to focus on his music, asking for an end to the negativity. “ Winning ” is currently available on all music platforms. Related Posts Alikiba Surpasses 200 Million Boomplay Streams, Joining Bongo Flava's Elite Read More Tanzania Afrobeat Celebrities Wizkid’s Morayo Makes Billboard 200 Debut with Emotional Tribute Read More Nigeria | African Music Ruger and Victony Set to Light Up Kigali’s BK Arena This December Read More Rwanda | African Music Bishop Mbonyintege Condemns Comedians Impersonating Clergy Read More Rwanda | Comedy

  • Miss Rwanda Muheto Receives a Suspended Three-Month Sentence | Xtrafrica

    Miss Rwanda Muheto Receives a Suspended Three-Month Sentence Prince Jean Nov 6, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Miss Nshuti Muheto Divine, former Miss Rwanda 2022, exits the Kicukiro Primary Court after receiving a suspended three-month sentence and a fine for driving-related offenses. Credit:igihe The Kicukiro Primary Court has ruled that Miss Nshuti Muheto Divine, crowned Miss Rwanda in 2022, is guilty of driving under the influence and driving without a valid license, sentencing her to a suspended three-month jail term, suspended for a year. The court also ruled that Miss Muheto was not guilty of fleeing the scene following the accident, as alleged by the prosecution. Miss Muheto faced three charges: driving under the influence, driving without a valid license, and fleeing the scene after causing or contributing to an accident. The charges relate to an incident on the night of October 20, 2024, when she reportedly collided with a curb and an electric pole while under the influence of alcohol. The prosecution argued that she fled the scene after the crash and requested a sentence of one year and eight months. In her defense, Miss Muheto admitted to driving under the influence and driving without a license but denied fleeing the scene, stating that she moved about 100 meters away to avoid potential harm. The court reviewed the charges and applicable penalties. Under a 1987 law, driving under the influence can result in a sentence of up to two months, with her blood alcohol level reportedly exceeding the legal limit of 0.8%. Additionally, driving without a license carries a potential sentence of up to two months in jail or a fine of 10,000 Rwandan francs. The court found her guilty of both these offenses. Regarding the charge of fleeing, the court found no intent on her part to evade the scene. The court ruled that Miss Nshuti Muheto Divine is guilty on two of the three charges and imposed a suspended three-month sentence, effective for one year, along with a fine of 190,000 Rwandan francs. She was released immediately following the court’s decision. Related Posts Alikiba Surpasses 200 Million Boomplay Streams, Joining Bongo Flava's Elite Read More Tanzania Afrobeat Celebrities Wizkid’s Morayo Makes Billboard 200 Debut with Emotional Tribute Read More Nigeria | African Music Ruger and Victony Set to Light Up Kigali’s BK Arena This December Read More Rwanda | African Music Bishop Mbonyintege Condemns Comedians Impersonating Clergy Read More Rwanda | Comedy

  • Menzo on Path of Suriname, World Cup Goals, and Influence of Cruyff | Xtrafrica

    Menzo on Path of Suriname, World Cup Goals, and Influence of Cruyff Prince Jean Nov 1, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Stanley Menzo, head coach of Suriname's national team, aims for a historic World Cup qualification, bringing pride to his home country. Stanley Menzo, the former Dutch goalkeeper, has taken on a significant challenge by returning to Suriname, the country of his birth, to lead its national team toward a potential first-ever FIFA World Cup™ qualification. For a country with a population of only 630,000, qualifying would be a major accomplishment, on par with Iceland’s breakthrough in international football. Menzo’s squad has started strong, leading their group in Concacaf’s World Cup qualifiers with two wins. “If there’s a chance to reach the World Cup, it’s now,” Menzo says, noting that with host nations USA, Canada, and Mexico already qualified, Suriname has three additional spots in the region to compete for. Having left Suriname at the age of six, Menzo developed his playing style under the guidance of Johan Cruyff at Ajax, emphasizing possession and fluid play. However, he remains flexible, stating, “We want to dominate and play good football, but if that’s not possible, we’ll do what’s needed to win.” Since beginning his second term as Suriname’s coach in March 2024, Menzo has seen promising results, which he attributes to Suriname general manager Brian Tevreden, who helped bring him back to the national setup. Currently ranked 136th, Suriname recently held 43rd-placed Costa Rica to a 1-1 draw, marking notable progress. Menzo is eager for the challenge against Canada and its star players, like Alphonso Davies, as a way to assess the team’s growth. Menzo brings extensive experience, having made over 300 appearances for Ajax, winning European and domestic titles, and representing the Netherlands on the international stage. Known for his ball-playing ability as a goalkeeper, Menzo credits Cruyff for instilling in him the idea that a goalkeeper should play like an outfield player. Menzo’s career has also had difficult moments, as he faced racism from fans in the Netherlands, enduring insults and abuse from the stands. “My love for football kept me going,” he reflects, advising young players not to let negative experiences take away their passion for the game. Since retiring as a player in 2002, Menzo has stayed active in football, coaching in various countries. Reflecting on his coaching, he shares, “I love seeing an idea I have in my head come to life on the field.” Now, Menzo is focused on giving back to Suriname. With strong ties to the Netherlands, his team includes players born there who are eager to represent their heritage. Tevreden has played a crucial role in recruiting talent, with players drawn to Suriname’s progress and ambitions. For Menzo, leading Suriname to the World Cup would be deeply meaningful. “Suriname is a beautiful country, though times are hard. Football can bring pride here. Taking Suriname to the World Cup—that would be a dream come true,” he says, hinting that it could be the perfect conclusion to his long career. Kenyan Federation Elections Sammy Owino Pledges to Eradicate Corruption in Kenyan Football English Premier League Amorim Calls for Bravery as Manchester United Prepares to Face Arsenal AFCON Build_Ups Uganda Allocates Shs350 Billion for CHAN 2025 Preparations English Premier League Ipswich Captain Faces Backlash After Declining Rainbow Armband Related Posts Sammy Owino Pledges to Eradicate Corruption in Kenyan Football Kenyan Federation Elections . Amorim Calls for Bravery as Manchester United Prepares to Face Arsenal English Premier League . Uganda Allocates Shs350 Billion for CHAN 2025 Preparations AFCON Build_Ups . Ipswich Captain Faces Backlash After Declining Rainbow Armband English Premier League .

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