African Cup of Nations : Schedule, Groups, Fixtures, and Betting

Everything You Need to Know About Afcon 2024 : Schedule, Groups, Fixtures, and More

Afcon 2023, Africa’s premier football event, is approaching swiftly, set to kick off in Ivory Coast, the tournament’s host for the second time. Commencing on Saturday, 13 January at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium in Abidjan, the opening match features Ivory Coast taking on Guinea-Bissau. The action continues with Egypt facing Mozambique in Group B and holders Senegal defending their title against The Gambia in Group C on Monday, 15 January.

Curious about the tournament’s format, group fixtures, and match timings? Look no further for comprehensive insights ahead of the 34th edition of this colossal sporting event, provided by BBC Sport Africa.

Group Breakdown:
The 24 participating teams are divided into six groups, with intriguing match-ups in each. Notable clashes include Egypt vs. Ghana in Group B and Senegal vs. Cameroon in Group C.

Schedule and Kick-off Times:
During the group stages until 24 January, multiple matches are scheduled daily at 14:00, 17:00, and 20:00 (all times GMT). Following this, the knockout stages begin on Saturday, 27 January, maintaining the same timing pattern for the games.

Venues:
Six stadiums across five host cities in Ivory Coast will set the stage for Afcon 2023’s thrilling matches. These venues boast significant capacities and have either been newly constructed or renovated for the tournament, showcasing the country’s commitment to infrastructure development.

Front-Runners and Form Teams:
Several teams, including Senegal, Algeria, Morocco, and Ivory Coast, are highly anticipated contenders. However, the landscape presents exciting prospects, with new talents rising in teams like Senegal, notwithstanding the departure of key players.

Fixture Highlights:
From the opening clash between Ivory Coast and Guinea-Bissau to the finals on Sunday, 11 February, each match promises gripping football action, showcasing the talent and competitiveness of African football on a grand stage.

Stay updated on Afcon 2023’s fixtures, schedules, and group dynamics as the continent braces for an exhilarating football extravaganza!”

**Group Stage Fixtures:**

**Saturday 13 January**
– Ivory Coast vs Guinea-Bissau, Alassane Ouattara Stadium, Abidjan (20:00)

**Sunday 14 January**
– Nigeria vs Equatorial Guinea, Alassane Ouattara Stadium, Abidjan (14:00)
– Egypt vs Mozambique, Felix Houphouet-Boigny Stadium, Abidjan (17:00)
– Ghana vs Cape Verde, Felix Houphouet-Boigny Stadium, Abidjan (20:00)

**Monday 15 January**
– Senegal vs The Gambia, Charles Konan Banny Stadium, Yamoussoukro (14:00)
– Cameroon vs Guinea, Yamoussoukro (17:00)
– Algeria vs Angola, Stade de la Paix, Bouake (20:00)

**Tuesday 16 January**
– Burkina Faso vs Mauritania, Bouake (14:00)
– Tunisia vs Namibia, Amadou Gon Coulibaly Stadium, Korhogo (17:00)
– Mali vs South Africa, Korhogo (20:00)

**Wednesday 17 January**
– Morocco vs Tanzania, Laurent Pokou Stadium, San Pedro (17:00)
– DR Congo vs Zambia, San Pedro (20:00)

Betting

– **Senegal: 7/1**
– **Ivory Coast: 8/1**
– **Morocco: 8/1**
– **Egypt: 10/1**
– **Nigeria: 11/1**
– **Cameroon: 11/1**
– **Algeria: 12/1**
– **Tunisia: 13/1**
– **Mali: 26/1**
– **Ghana: 30/1**
– **DR Congo: 41/1**
– **Burkina Faso: 51/1**
– **Gabon: 51/1**
– **South Africa: 51/1**
– **Guinea: 81/1**
– **Zambia: 81/1**
– **Cape Verde Isl.: 101/1**
– **Equatorial Guinea: 101/1**
– **Tanzania: 126/1**
– **Angola: 201/1**
– **Gambia: 201/1**
– **Namibia: 201/1**
– **Mozambique: 251/1**
– **Malawi: 350/1**
– **Sierra Leone: 401/1**
– **Guinea-Bissau: 500/1**
– **Mauritania: 750/1**
– **Ethiopia: 1000/1**
– **Comoros: 1000/1**
– **Sudan: 1001/1**
– **Zimbabwe: 1001/1**

BetMGM Joins as Title Sponsor for Premier League Darts 2024

2023WCF_KC_van_Gerwen18 — during Day 16 of the 2023 Cazoo World Darts Championship at Alexandra Palace, London on Tuesday 3rd January 2023.

BetMGM Joins as Title Sponsor for Premier League Darts 2024: A Look at the Upcoming Season

The forthcoming season of Premier League Darts in 2024 is set to feature an exciting transformation with BetMGM stepping in as the headline sponsor for the prestigious event. Rebranded as the BetMGM Premier League, the tournament will span from February to May, encompassing 17 thrilling nights where eight elite players will vie for a staggering £1 million in prize money.

Throughout the 16 league nights, a series of engaging mini-events will unfold, pitting the players against each other until a victor emerges. The top four contenders from the final league standings will progress to the grand season-ending Play-Offs.

This collaboration heralds a new chapter in the sport’s history, marking a promising partnership between the Professional Darts Corporation and BetMGM, a prominent betting and gaming platform under MGM Resorts. With its diverse offerings spanning sports betting, casinos, live casino games, MGM Millions, and MGM Exclusives, BetMGM is poised to elevate the experience for enthusiasts and players alike.

Excitement mounts as the league gears up for its 20th edition, promising unparalleled entertainment. PDC Chief Executive Matt Porter expressed enthusiasm, highlighting the vast reach of the Premier League and the significant exposure it will gain through BetMGM’s sponsorship.

Moreover, BetMGM’s existing partnerships with renowned football clubs like Manchester City, Wolverhampton Wanderers, and Newcastle United, as well as its collaboration with talkSPORT, further solidify its position as a key player in sports entertainment.

Sam Behar, BetMGM’s UK Director, conveyed excitement about this partnership, expressing eagerness for the action-packed year ahead for both BetMGM and the PDC.

The BetMGM Premier League kicks off on February 1 in Cardiff, traversing through multiple cities before culminating in the Play-Offs in London. Stay tuned for the much-anticipated announcement of the player lineup for the 2024 BetMGM Premier League Darts tournament.

Discover more about BetMGM UK’s unparalleled offerings in sports betting and online casino experiences at BetMGM.co.uk, where unbeatable odds, enhanced offers, and unprecedented jackpots await.

Pittsburgh Steelers’ Playoff Hopes: Scenarios and results needed

Pittsburgh Steelers’ Playoff Hopes: Scenarios, Strategies, and the Path to Postseason

For the Pittsburgh Steelers, securing a playoff berth in the AFC hinges on a crucial win in Baltimore during their regular-season finale. With their playoff dreams alive, here are the scenarios and strategies they must navigate to extend their season beyond Week 18.

Currently positioned ninth in the AFC standings, the Steelers aim to leapfrog at least two teams to clinch a playoff spot. Buffalo (10-6) and Indianapolis (9-7) hold the final wild-card spots, with Houston (9-7) in contention. The Steelers are the ninth and final AFC team still vying for playoff contention.

Intriguingly, the Colts and Texans face off this weekend, potentially opening a window for the Steelers to climb in the standings with a win against the Ravens. Their fate against Buffalo relies on the injury-ridden Dolphins, the Bills’ last opponents in Miami. The Steelers count on a Miami upset to bolster their playoff chances after the Dolphins’ recent loss to Baltimore.

Despite the Ravens clinching the top seed, facing Baltimore won’t be a cakewalk, even with potential absence from Lamar Jackson and key players. Tyler Huntley, the Ravens’ backup quarterback, showcased his prowess last year, nearly causing an upset in the playoffs.

Fueling their recent resurgence, the Steelers boast victories in their last two games, including an impressive triumph over Seattle. Stellar performances from Mason Rudolph, George Pickens, Najee Harris, Jaylen Warren, and an overhauled secondary have been pivotal in this late-season surge.

Amidst a season marked by ups and downs, the Steelers seem to be hitting their peak at a critical juncture. However, securing victory against Baltimore and relying on external results will be pivotal in carrying their current momentum into the playoffs.

Potential Cheltenham Festival Route for Flooring Porter: Fences or Third Stayers’ Hurdle Title?

After a mixed Grade One performance during Christmas, Flooring Porter, a former Stayers’ Hurdle champion, faces uncertainty over sticking to fences or pursuing a third title in the Stayers’ Hurdle. The nine-year-old excelled in 2021 and 2022 but fell short last season. Shifting focus to larger obstacles this season showed promise initially at Cheltenham, yet subsequent races posed challenges.

Trainer Gavin Cromwell acknowledged the hurdles faced by Flooring Porter in the Grade Two Florida Pearl Novice Chase and the recent Neville Hotels Novice Chase at Leopardstown. Despite solid jumps, the competition proved tough. Cromwell remains open to Flooring Porter entering a novice chase at the Festival while contemplating a return to hurdling.

Additionally, Cromwell’s My Mate Mozzie secured a runner-up spot at Leopardstown’s Grade One Racing Post Novice Chase. Though pleased, Cromwell questioned the form’s strength due to a disappointing performance by hot favorite Facile Vega.

With uncertainties looming, Cromwell contemplates potential races at the Festival, keeping options open for both Flooring Porter and My Mate Mozzie, including a probable Grand Annual entry.”

Dominant Return: Donegal 3-16 Armagh 1-06 in Dr McKenna Cup Clash

In an impressive return for Jim McGuinness as Donegal manager, his team showcased dominance against a youthful Armagh side in the Bank of Ireland Dr McKenna Cup at MacCumhaill Park, Ballybofey.

Early Lead and Debut Show

Right from the onset, Michael Langan’s explosive start, firing a net-bound shot, set the tone for Donegal’s prowess. The team, featuring five debutants initially and introducing a sixth in the second half, displayed promising signs of strength.

Goals Galore and Commanding Performance

Despite a commendable three-pointer from Luke McKeever for Armagh, Kevin McGettigan’s second goal maintained Donegal’s momentum, leading 2-06 to 1-03 at halftime. The second half saw the emergence of senior players, particularly Oisin Gallen, elevating Donegal’s game.

Crushing Victory and Player Performance

Gallen’s collaboration with Langan resulted in a third goal, sealing Armagh’s fate. The one-sided affair witnessed Gallen’s 1-04 contribution, matching Langan’s standout performance as joint top scorer of the match.

McGuinness’ Post-Match Reflection

Jim McGuinness expressed satisfaction: “From our standpoint, we’re content.” Delighted to provide all 26 players equal game time, he highlighted the team’s readiness and anticipation for the upcoming game against Tyrone, anticipating a sterner challenge.

Looking Ahead and Player Praise

Addressing the youthful Armagh team and anticipating the future league encounter, McGuinness emphasized the team’s preparation strategy. He lauded 17-year-old Finbarr Roarty, among the debutants, acknowledging his seamless transition to senior county-level football from Naomh Conaill club.

Donegal: Shaun Patton; Finbarr Roarty, Brendan McCole, Kevin McGettigan (1-00); Ryan McHugh (0-01, Jeaic Mac Ceallabhuí (0-01), Ciaran Moore; Jason McGee, Michael Langan (1-04); Oisin Caulfield, Ciaran Thompson, Daire Ó Baoill; Aaron Doherty (0-01), Patrick McBrearty (0-02,0-02f), Seanan Carr. Subs: Odhran Doherty (0-01), Peadar Mogan (0-01), Oisin Gallen (1-04,0-01f), Stephen McMenamin, Coalan McGonagle (0-01), Jamie Brennan and Shane O’Donnell on for Ó Baoill, Moore, A Doherty, McGettigan, McGee, Carr and Caulfield (half-time); John Ross Molloy and Domhnall Mac Giolla Bhríde for Mac Ceallabhuí and Roarty (50), Daithí Roberts and Rory O’Donnell for Patton and Langan (53)

Armagh: Rhys Stevens; Cathal Agnew, Sam McClarnon, Conor Magennis; Emmett Magee, Luke McKeever (1-00), Joe Sheridan (0-01); Tadhg Grimley, Paddy Carr; Sean Conlon, Brendan O’Hagan (0-03,0-03f), Callum O’Neill (0-01); Cianan Campbell (0-01), Daniel Magee, Michael McConville. Subs: Fergal O’Brien for Carr (29), Conor Lennon for Stevens (half-time), Tomás Galvin for Campbell (46)

Referee: Maggie Farrelly (Cavan)

Rory McIlroy’s views on LIV Golf and possibly joining

World Golf Championships-Dell Technologies Match Play - Day Four — Rory McIlroy reacts after making birdie on the 15th green during day four of the World Golf Championships-Dell Technologies Match Play at Austin Country Club on March 25, 2023 in Austin, Texas. Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images. Provided by European Tour Group Communications.

Rory McIlroy’s Views on LIV Golf & Potential Collaboration with PGA Tour

Rory McIlroy, a prominent figure in golf, expresses openness to participating in a tournament linked with LIV Golf, under certain conditions resembling cricket’s Indian Premier League (IPL). Despite his initial opposition to LIV, McIlroy envisions a transformation where LIV could emulate the IPL’s team-oriented format, potentially integrating within the broader golf ecosystem.

McIlroy’s Vision for LIV Golf

The golfer, currently ranked second globally, emphasizes the appeal of a format that spans a dedicated two-month calendar, fostering a distinctive team-based approach. McIlroy believes such an adaptation would align better within the golfing landscape.

LIV Golf vs. Established Tours

Distinguishing itself from traditional tours, LIV revolves around team events, dividing its 48 players into 12 teams, a stark contrast to the individual-centric nature of established golf circuits.

Shift in Perspective

McIlroy, a four-time major winner, acknowledges his initial strong stance against LIV, once even expressing the possibility of retirement if LIV Golf became the sole platform for the sport.

Evolving Stance on LIV Golf

Acknowledging LIV as an integral part of golf, McIlroy admits to a shift in perspective. He emphasizes the significance of utilizing financial investments within the sport responsibly, advocating for directing funds towards grassroots programs to nurture golf’s growth, rather than solely focusing on player acquisitions.

Reflecting on Previous Criticism

Expressing regret over his earlier critical views of players joining LIV Golf, McIlroy now understands the diverse motivations behind such decisions. He emphasizes that professional golfers, like himself, strive to make a living and acknowledges the complexities influencing individual choices.

McIlroy’s Optimism and Call for Unity

Maintaining a positive outlook, McIlroy hopes for a reunion between different factions within golf. He advocates setting aside personal and ego-driven sentiments for the collective betterment of the sport.

Vision for Golf’s Unified Future

Highlighting the divided opinions among players and the desire for reconciliation, McIlroy advocates for unity and collaboration, aiming for a positive collective advancement in the world of golf.

An Tobar Takes Center Stage in Lawlor’s Of Naas Novice Hurdle

As the fervor builds ahead of the Lawlor’s Of Naas Novice Hurdle, Ireland anticipates a thrilling showdown featuring some of the country’s finest novice hurdlers. With ten potential runners vying for the prestigious Grade 1 title, Naas Racecourse’s flagship event promises excitement and stiff competition.

Gordon Elliott has set his sights firmly on Sunday’s contest, earmarking his unbeaten hurdler, Croke Park, as a key contender. The six-year-old, owned by Gigginstown House Stud, leads Elliott’s trio of entries for the Lawlor’s Of Naas Novice Hurdle. Among the considerations for the demanding two and a half mile race are Firefox and Jigoro, owned by Bective Stud, adding to Elliott’s past successes in this Grade 1 race with Ginto, Envoi Allen, Battleoverdoyen, and Death Duty.

However, the spotlight also falls on Henry de Bromhead’s aspirations to secure victory in the Lawlor’s Of Naas Novice Hurdle for a second time. De Bromhead aims to replicate the success of Bob Olinger by sending An Tobar to carry the winning colors of the 2021 champion, owned by Robcour.

An Tobar’s recent third-place finish in the Grade 1 Royal Bond Novice Hurdle at Fairyhouse has bolstered confidence among connections. Robbie Power, de Bromhead’s race planner, expressed optimism about An Tobar’s form, citing the horse’s promising performance in Fairyhouse and emphasizing the upcoming race’s suitability. Power highlighted An Tobar’s adaptability to varied ground conditions, making the Lawlor’s Of Naas Novice Hurdle an ideal target.

The competitive field includes Mystical Power, a five-year-old trained by champion Willie Mullins, who aims to rewrite history as the first five-year-old victor since Mullins’ triumph with Mckinley in the inaugural year of this Grade 1 race. Mystical Power, by Galileo and out of the exceptional mare Annie Power, boasts an impressive pedigree, running in the colors of JP McManus, alongside John Magnier and Rich Ricci.

The supporting card for Sunday’s event features potential showdowns, including the BetVictor Irish EBF Novice Chase with recent Fairyhouse winner Mister Policeman and the opening Irish Stallion Farms EBF Mares Beginners Chase with Grade 1 winner Brandy Love.

Naas Racecourse is set for a thrilling seven-race card this Sunday, commencing at 12:30 pm. For further details, visit naasracecourse.com and witness the pinnacle of Irish novice hurdling.

Entries list of possible runners in 2024 Cheltenham Gold Cup

Entries list of possible runners in 2024 Cheltenham Gold Cup, there are 20 entries with just under half of them Irish.

Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup Chase (Grade 1) 3m 2f 70y – Friday 15^th March

Ahoy Senor (IRE) 9 11 10 Wymer & Russell Lucinda Russell

Bravemansgame (FR) 9 11 10 Bryan Drew Paul Nicholls

Conflated (IRE) 10 11 10 Gigginstown House Stud Gordon Elliott Ireland

Corach Rambler (IRE) 10 11 10 The Ramblers Lucinda Russell

Datsalrightgino (GER) 8 11 10 The GD Partnership Jamie Snowden

Envoi Allen (FR) 10 11 10 Cheveley Park Stud Henry de Bromhead Ireland

Fastorslow (FR) 8 11 10 Sean & Bernardine Mulryan Martin Brassil Ireland

Galopin des Champs (FR) 8 11 10 Mrs Audrey Turley W. P. Mullins Ireland

Gentlemansgame 8 11 10 Robcour M. F. Morris Ireland

Gerri Colombe (FR) 8 11 10 Robcour Gordon Elliott Ireland

Hewick (IRE) 9 11 10 Mr T. J. McDonald John Joseph Hanlon Ireland

Jungle Boogie (IRE) 10 11 10 Mr Malcolm C. Denmark Henry de Bromhead Ireland

L’homme Presse (FR) 9 11 10 DFA Racing (Pink & Edwards) Venetia Williams

Monkfish (IRE) 10 11 10 Mrs S. Ricci W. P. Mullins Ireland

Nassalam (FR) 7 11 10 John and Yvonne Stone Gary Moore

Protektorat (FR) 9 11 10 Sir A Ferguson G Mason J Hales & L Hales Dan Skelton

Royale Pagaille (FR) 10 11 10 Mrs S. Ricci Venetia Williams

Shishkin (IRE) 10 11 10 Mrs J Donnelly Nicky Henderson

Stay Away Fay (IRE) 7 11 10 Mr Chris Giles & Mr Dave Staddon Paul Nicholls

The Real Whacker (IRE) 8 11 10 Neville, Mann, Duffus, Dennis-Price Patrick Neville

20 entries

9 Irish-trained

Emerging Talent Eve McMahon Sets Sights on Olympics

Emerging Talent Eve McMahon Sets Sights on Olympic Qualification at Sailing World Championship

As the sailing world gears up for the first major Olympic class world championship of 2024, all eyes turn to the promising talent of Ireland’s Eve McMahon. The 19-year-old sailor, hailing from Howth, is poised to make waves as she embarks on a crucial journey at the Sailing World Championship in Argentina, commencing on January 5th, 2024.

Youth Star Chases Paris 2024 Olympics

Despite being just one year into her senior-level career, McMahon’s ambition knows no bounds. Her goal? To secure one of the coveted seven spots available for the women’s single-handed event at the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympics, sailing in her ILCA6 class.

McMahon’s prowess on the water has been evident from the outset. Last autumn, she clinched the U21 world title in her class in Tangiers, Morocco, marking a stunning follow-up to her exceptional 2022 season. That year, she rounded off her youth career by claiming a remarkable trio of Gold medals at various international championship events.

Crucial Event: McMahon’s Bid for Olympic Berth

This Sailing World Championship marks a pivotal juncture for McMahon. Amongst 105 sailors representing 47 nations, she’s poised to battle through a rigorous six-day series, starting with the qualification rounds. These rounds will determine the Gold, Silver, and Bronze fleet splits for the final stage before the decisive medal race featuring the top ten finishers.

For McMahon, the primary focus isn’t merely on personal achievement; it’s about securing a place for Ireland at the prestigious Olympic Sailing regatta in Marseilles slated for July. With 11 nations already clinching spots, seven more positions remain up for grabs in Argentina, setting the stage for intense competition and high-stakes racing.

Ireland’s Path to the Olympics: McMahon’s Pursuit

McMahon’s journey towards Olympic qualification doesn’t end in Argentina. Further opportunities await at the European championships and the French Olympic Week in Hyeres in late April. Unlike the other disciplines, McMahon, the sole senior-level campaigner in the ILCA6 class, won’t face a trials series. Instead, her performance here holds the key to securing Ireland’s representation at the Olympic Federation of Ireland for the national team.

James O’Callaghan, Irish Sailing Performance Director, commended McMahon’s remarkable progress, noting, “Eve is on a clear upward trajectory even at this early stage of her senior level career. Olympic qualification is clearly on her radar, and key to this will be executing her plan, race by race.”

Expert Perspective: McMahon’s Promising Trajectory

The ILCA6 world championship kickstarts a pivotal phase, followed by the men’s world championship in the ILCA7 class later this month, where Rio 2016 veteran Finn Lynch will lead Irish ambitions for a strong finish in Adelaide, South Australia.

Upcoming Challenges in the Olympic Sailing Journey

As McMahon sets sail on this defining journey, her determination, skill, and unwavering focus will play a pivotal role in shaping Ireland’s presence at the Paris 2024 Olympics. With each wave conquered and each race maneuvered, McMahon inches closer to etching her name in the annals of Irish sailing history.

Sensational Humphries Denies Littler to Seal World Championship Glory

Humphries triumphs in a thrilling showdown at Alexandra Palace

Luke Humphries secured an astonishing victory over the remarkable teenage sensation Luke Littler, claiming the 2023/24 Paddy Power World Darts Championship in a captivating showdown at Alexandra Palace. Humphries’ incredible comeback from 4-2 down culminated in a 7-4 triumph, marking his ascent to the pinnacle of darts. Some of the play was like playing roulette, maybe have a look at casino reviews for the best places to play.

Humphries’ Spectacular Journey to Glory

*The 28-year-old Humphries showcased an extraordinary performance, exhibiting nerves of steel by reeling off five consecutive sets against the relentless 16-year-old Littler. His display of precision, averaging 103 and delivering 23 maximums, solidified his status as the new world number one.*

An Emotional Victory

I cannot put into words how great this feels,” Humphries expressed after the match. His journey to the championship holds deeper significance due to his past battles with anxiety. “There was a time in my life where I was really depressed, and I thought that was going to be it for me,” he revealed.

Littler’s Exceptional Debut

*Despite the defeat, Littler, who defeated former World Champions Raymond van Barneveld and Rob Cross during his impressive campaign, remains undeterred. “It’s been unbelievable,” the 16-year-old reflected. “I’m into the world’s top 32, runner-up on my debut. It’s been an unbelievable tournament, and now I just want to go on and win it.” This run at the World Championships is like some from a good story on a casino forum about a player getting a huge unexpected win.

A Set-by-Set Thriller

*The intense match unfolded through a roller-coaster of sets, with both players showcasing exceptional skill and determination. Each set held its own drama, with remarkable turnarounds and breathtaking finishes defining the night’s exhilarating gameplay.*

Humphries’ Redemption Arc

*Humphries’ journey, from battling personal demons to claiming the World Championship, embodies a tale of resilience and triumph. His victory stands as a testament to his perseverance and dedication to the sport.*

Looking Ahead

*As the curtain falls on this gripping championship, the darts community eagerly anticipates the rise of both Humphries and Littler in the professional circuit, setting the stage for future showdowns and remarkable feats.