International Football
MAHREZ’S FREE KICK GOAL AGAINST NIGERIA IN CONTENTION FOR CAF AWARD
BY KUNLE SOLAJA.
The added time goal that Riyad Mahrez of Algeria scored to send Nigeria out of contention for the final match of the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations in July is one of the six goals nominated for Goal of the Year in the CAF Awards coming up in January.
Mahrez, a striker for English Premier League side, Manchester City cleverly curved the ball round a disorganised Nigerian defence line in a 95th minute direct freekick at the semifinals of the Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt.
Before then, scoreline had been stalemated at 1-1 thus making the goal the winner and major step to Algeria’s winning their first title in 29 years.
Other goals nominated include that of Madou Haidara in the Mali versus Angola at 2019 Africa Cup of Nations; Idris Mbombo in the El Hilal versus Nkana Red Devils in the Confederation Cup; Amanda Mthandi of South Africa in the 2019 COSAFA Women’s Championship and Madou Haidara’s goal in the Mali Angola.
Members of the public are to vote.