A beaming smile, thunderous shot and tireless running were the qualities that caught the eye as Nigeria’s Taye Taiwo helped his side finish runners-up at the FIFA U-20 World Cup Netherlands 2005. Five years on, the full-back still hits the ball hard and his grin remains as broad as ever as he patrols the left flank for Marseille and the Super Eagles. Shown the ropes at Lobi Stars, Taiwo was just 19 when OM lured him to southern France as back-up to veteran defender Bixente Lizarazu. He did not have to wait long for his chance as Philippe Troussier handed... Continue Reading
AfriForum today launched a comprehensive campaign against ABSA after this bank demanded from the South African Rugby Union (SARU) that fewer white rugby players should participate in the Currie Cup Series. AfriForum’s campaign involves a petition against ABSA which can be found at their website, as well as an electronic campaign which will be conducted by means of SMSs, e-mail and on Facebook. A Facebook page, with the name ‘Stop ABSA kwotas/quotas’ has also been created. According to Kallie Kriel, CEO of AfriForum, ABSA’s actions speak of double standards and discrimination. “As team sponsor of Bafana Bafana, ABSA did not... Continue Reading
GENEVA – The results of the 159 “A” international matches played over the last five weeks have caused some significant movement in the latest edition of the FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking. World champions Spain are still on top, although defeat in Buenos Aires has seen them lose a quarter of their lead. Germany (3rd) and Brazil (4th) have traded places, as have England (6th) and Uruguay (7th), with the two European teams benefiting from their successful start to EURO 2012 qualifying. Norway (14th, up 8) and Slovakia (16th, up 11) have both climbed into the top 20 for the same reason.... Continue Reading
TAWANDA KAROMBO (Harare) – Zimbabwean soccer referees have once again come under the spotlight for the wrong reasons following complaints and concerns over “poor officiating standards” that have caused rebellion by some soccer fans. Premier league coaches have in recent weeks complained of bad refereeing standards but surprisingly, said officials this week, formal complaint has been lodged yet. It also appears that the PSL is toothless when it comes to disciplining erring match officials. The league also does not have the muscle to enforce good refereeing standards. Kenny Ndebele, the PSL’s chief executive officer told Shout-Africa early this week that... Continue Reading
By Mercy Ngwebvu – Zimbabwe Youth Network (ZIYON), a made up of 25 youth organizations on Tuesday 7th of September at Quill Club in Harare launched a Sports for Peace Campaign initiative attended by various stakeholders.. Presentations were made by the Executive vice chairperson of ZIYON, a member from of the youth organization representing Pace Setters Youth Network, also from the arm of the ministry of education director general from Sports and Recreation Commission, Mr Nhemachena. This launch of Sports of Peace comes barely a week after a leading consortium of organizations headed by Restoration of Human Rights Zimbabwe (ROHR)... Continue Reading
